A Pet Care Guide for Dogs

A Pet Care Guide for Dogs

Information provided by Hill's Science Diet

At Hill's, we understand your dog is an important part of your household. That's why we balance nutrients for your dog's optimal health. Love, exercise and balanced nutrition — all are essential to your dog for a long and happy life.

Hill's Science Diet^® Canine Adult
Hill's Science Diet^® Canine Adult was created just for dogs in their adult lifestage (one to six years old) with a moderate activity level. This special formula gives the adult dog specially balanced nutrition to maintain proper health and promote healthy skin and coat.

Science Diet^® Canine Adult is available in both canned and dry formulas and Canine Adult Treats.

We also offer formulas just for active or overweight dogs. And Lamb Meal & Rice Formula Canine Adult is available for dogs whose owners prefer the benefits of a lamb meal and rice formula.

The Unique Needs of Adult Dogs
Dogs between the ages of one and six are considered adult dogs. In general, these dogs need controlled levels of phosphorus, sodium, protein and energy for optimal health.

You'll need to assess your dog's activity level and breed type to determine unique nutritional needs. Ask yourself these questions:

Is your dog a hunting, sport or working dog?
Does your dog get an average amount of exercise through daily playing and walks?
Or does your dog have a low activity level and tend to gain weight easily?

Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder among dogs. In particular, the breeds with the greatest tendency for obesity are Labrador Retrievers, Cairn Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Basset Hounds and Beagles. If your dog is at risk for obesity, you should assess your dog's activity level and predisposition to fat. To control obesity, adult dogs need a food that is low in fat and calories, high in fiber (to help them feel full without reducing their food intake), and has a reduced level of sodium.

Active dogs, who require extra energy for work or play, need a food that meets their higher energy needs, while avoiding excesses through proper nutrient balance.

A common health concern for adult dogs is kidney disease, which is the second leading cause of non-accidental death in dogs after cancer. Dietary phosphorus, protein and salt excesses may exacerbate the progression of kidney damage that leads to failure and death. Therefore, unbalanced high amounts of phosphorus, protein and salt are all nutritional risk factors once kidney disease exists. Some commercial pet foods contain excess protein, phosphorus, calcium and salt.

Hill's Products for Adult Dogs
Hill's offers foods formulated to fit the specific needs of adult dogs.

How Much and How Often to Feed Your Adult Dog
It's important to feed your dog the right amount of food at the right time, but that can be tricky because feeding requirements vary from one dog to another. Feeding guides on the food can or bag are just a starting point. You'll need to monitor your dog's physical condition regularly, and adjust the feeding amount as needed.

Ask your veterinarian which of these three feeding methods is best for your dog:

Free Choice: Food is available to your dog at all times
Time-Limited Feeding: Food is available to your dog for a limited time
Food-Limited Feeding: A measured amount of food is available to your dog each day

Veterinarians recommend following these simple steps:

Weigh your dog
Feed based on the feeding guide and your vet's recommendations
Evaluate your dog's weight every two weeks for the first six months
Adjust the amount you feed accordingly
Repeat the cycle

We suggest that you and your veterinarian evaluate your dog's physical condition every few months. For some dogs, your veterinarian may suggest more frequent evaluations.

Hill's has been the leader in pet nutrition for more than 50 years, so when you select a Hill's dog food, you can be sure you've made a healthy decision.