WHAT'S THE BEST DOG FOOD FOR A SAMOYED?

Samoyed: Specific Dietary Needs

The Samoyed is an enduring and robust medium-sized dog. Samoyeds are also very athletic, so their dog food must be consistent and well-balanced. These are some of the specific characteristics that you should consider when choosing the right dog food for your Samoyed:

• Samoyeds are athletic dogs with well-developed musculature. Their ideal dog food will therefore need to be adapted to their energy expenditure and requirements.

• Like most dogs of the same size, the Samoyed is prone to hip dysplasia. To prevent this, opt for dry dog food that helps strengthen your dog’s bones and joints.

• The Samoyed also requires high-quality dog food that promotes healthy skin and fur.

Dry dog food allows you to adjust your dog's intake according to their ever-evolving needs. More affordable and balanced than homemade dog food, dry dog food guarantees a comprehensive and adapted diet for your Samoyed.

What Type of Dog Food Should I Give My Samoyed?

Now that you know a little more about your Samoyed, you can begin to think about the ideal dog food for this breed. Manufacturers offer a huge selection of dog food in supermarkets, and it can sometimes be difficult to navigate. So, when choosing the ideal dog food for your Samoyed, you should keep an eye out for:

• Dog food that effectively meets your Sammie’s energy requirements: To provide this athletic dog with all the energy it may need during the day, dog food must contain a sufficient amount of protein (about 25 to 28%), as well as a controlled amount of fat.

• Dog food that is rich in essential nutrients: Due to its Siberian origins, the Samoyed needs fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight than other dogs. This is because, being well adapted to surviving in the cold, the Samoyed’s body expends fewer calories - about 20% less than a dog of the same size doing the same level of physical activity. As such, the ideal dog food for this breed should be 20% denser in essential nutrients, such as fat, group B vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and fatty acids.

• Dog food that promotes good skin and coat health: Look for food with a high level of amino acids and Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to effectively preserve the health of your dog's skin and coat. 

• Dog food that facilitates digestion: Prebiotics and probiotics are good for maintaining the intestinal flora, which helps improve digestion. You can also rehydrate your dog’s dry food by adding a little lukewarm water to aid digestion and make the food more appetising. 

• Dog food that protects your dog’s joints and cartilage: Lots of exercise coupled with heavy muscle mass can lead to joint problems in your dog. The Samoyed, like most medium to large dogs, is particularly susceptible to hip dysplasia. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, from quality fish oil, have an anti-inflammatory effect, and glucosamine and chondroitin lubricate the joints and help preserve cartilage. In addition, vitamin D promotes bone mineralisation and stability.

How Often Should I Feed My Samoyed?

Now you’ve chosen the perfect dog food for your Samoyed, you need to learn how often to feed it. To feed your dog well, there are certain key rules to follow. For example, keep in mind that eating too much or too quickly can cause digestive problems for your dog, such as stomach twisting or gas. Follow these simple tips to best feed your Samoyed:

• Give your Samoyed their meals at the same, fixed time each day in a quiet place, away from possible sources of distraction: It's important to create a pleasant environment for your dog’s mealtimes, as this facilitates digestion and promotes a balanced diet.

• Divide your dog’s daily food ration into two or three small meals: This way, you distribute your Samoyed’s food throughout the day and avoid overloading their digestive capacities.

• Give your Samoyed the correct amount of dog food: This will vary according to different factors, such as your dog's age, weight, and activity level (normal or sustained). Ask your vet or an animal nutritionist expert to help you determine the right amount of food for your dog.

• Treats: Offer your Samoyed a healthy dog treat from time to time. Little pieces of fruit or cooked vegetables are a great, natural option! However, be careful with this if your dog tends to gain weight easily.

• Toxic foods: Some foods are toxic to dogs and should be forbidden. Cold meats, chocolate, onion, garlic and sugar are especially dangerous for dogs. Chicken and rabbit bones are also not recommended. As always, if you’re not sure, seek advice from your vet.

• Finally, remember that hydration is essential and plays a significant role in your Samoyed’s health. If your dog doesn’t drink enough, this can lead to health concerns, such as urinary infections. Make sure you fill your dog’s bowl with fresh water every day. If you want to encourage your Samoyed to drink more water, get creative! Try placing a few ice cubes in the water bowl to tempt your dog to drink.