What to feed your Irish Wolfhood

Irish Wolfhounds are among the many breeds that were originally bred for use during. This big dogs are also used to hunt large game such as bears, believe it or not. Those are big jobs for these dogs, and they are going to need the right kind of fuel to perform. So, what do you feed these hard-working beasts?

Because Irish Wolfhounds are large dogs, they need a lot of calories – more than most other breeds. Even those that aren’t as active as other dogs will require a big calorie load, due to their large size. As a guideline, expect to provide your Wolfhound with between 2,000 and 2,600 calories daily. However, if your dog is a hunting dog or is otherwise quite active, he may require up to 4,000 calories or more per day. That’s a lot of food, so if you are going to buy one of these amazing creatures, be aware that you’re going to need a substantial dog food budget!

You’ll be able to gauge the amount of dog food your dog needs by letting him take the lead. Watch him when he eats a few times. Does he finish his food fast and seem to be looking for more? If he does, you may need to increase his portions. On the flip side, if he eats and then leaves some food in his bowl regularly, you can probably scale back the portion size. It’s a bit of trial and error, and every dog is different, but if you let him take the lead, you’ll be able to determine the perfect amount for your dog.

Aside from the amount of food your dog needs, it’s important to also consider the nutritional content of the food. This big dog breed needs a proper balance of nutrients to perform optimally, which includes grain-free kibble. Grain-free dry food is easier on this breed’s digestive system, reducing intestinal distention and allowing the digestive system to functional normally. Feed your Irish Wolfhound a balanced diet of meat such as chicken and turkey, vegetables and fruits. In addition, choose kibble that is fortified with vitamins C and E, glucosamine and chondroitin. These will help prevent conditions for which this dog is known, including elbow and hip dysplasia.

Probiotics are a good addition to your dog’s diet, too. Probiotics replenish the gut with good bacteria, which is helpful for several reasons. A good population of gut-friendly flora can help to bolster the immune system and fortify your dog against certain diseases. Also, probiotics are instrumental in helping the digestive system to work optimally.

Feeding your Irish Wolfhound is a matter of creating a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet that contains enough calories to sustain your big breed dog. If you have any questions about feeding your dog, there are lots of resources online and you can always consult your veterinarian for advice and recommendations.

For more information about dog ownership, check out www.irishdogs.ie