Commercial dog foods are usually well balanced.
Coonhounds are large dogs, with lots of muscles and heavy bones. Coonhounds were bred to hunt for extended periods and therefore require more fat and protein in their diet than many other dog breeds. Inactive coonhounds do not burn as many calories as active animals and the dog's diet must be modified to suit its activity level, or it will put on unnecessary weight. Although high quality commercial dog foods are nutritionally well-balanced, a number of coonhound breeders prefer to use their own homemade diets. Regardless of which approach a coonhound breeder and owner chooses, attention to the ingredients will ensure the correct diet for this energetic breed.
Importance of Correct Nutrition
Proper nutrition ensures that the coonhound's immune system remains healthy. The correct diet also provides nutrients for growth and provides energy. A well-fed coonhound has a healthy skin and glossy coat and its heavy bones will grow properly. A correct diet has no deficiencies or excesses and typically has a meat product as a basic ingredient. Offer 3 to 5 cups of food to your coonhound on a daily basis, but spread this amount over two meals. Holistic veterinarians typically suggest homemade diets, although traditional practitioners have reservations about these normally raw diets.
Raw Diet
According to Chawn Santana, who hunts and competes with her coonhounds in United Kennel Club performance events, raw, homemade diets are superior to commercial ones. Santana indicates that her dogs put on solid muscle when eating raw foods. These dogs also need less road work to keep them in condition during the off-season period. Santana, who is concerned about preservatives in commercial diets and about the natural food enzymes being destroyed, feeds raw meat to her very active coonhounds.
Nutrient Profiles for Dogs
Coonhound breeders who choose to feed homemade diets must make sure that their recipes are balanced by comparing the ingredients to the American Association of Feed Control Officials nutrient profiles for dogs. It is best to formulate a homemade diet with the help of a veterinary school or private veterinarian. A holistic veterinarian will support your decision to feed a raw diet, but most traditional practitioners have reservations.
Meat Ingredients
Diets for active coonhounds should contain more meat ingredients than grain. In commercial diets, the meat is invariably in the form of meat meal. Chicken, beef or lamb meat are all acceptable sources of protein. In homemade diets, the meat may be offered in either its raw or cooked form. A diet containing 26 percent protein and 18 percent fat is best for coonhounds. These diets must also contain vitamins and minerals to keep your coonhounds in top condition, particularly if they are working.
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