Bedlington Terriers need a well-balanced and nutritious diet to remain healthy and happy like all dogs. Consider the following when feeding your Bedlington Terrier:
- Quality of food: When selecting dog food, it’s important to choose a product that contains real meat as the main ingredient. Avoid options that include fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products. This will ensure your furry friend receives a high-quality and nutritious diet.
- Type of food: Bedlington Terriers can be fed commercially prepared dry kibble or wet/canned food. Some owners prefer to feed a raw or homemade diet but To ensure that your dog’s diet is complete and balanced, it is essential to seek advice from a veterinarian or canine nutritionist.
- Portion control: The amount of food your Bedlington Terrier needs will depend on age, weight, and activity level. It is essential to measure the food given to avoid overfeeding, as it can cause health problems and lead to obesity.
- Feeding schedule: Most adult dogs do well with two meals daily, but some may do better with smaller, more frequent meals. Puppies may require more frequent feeding.
- Treats: Treats can reinforce good behavior and provide mental stimulation. However, they should be given in restraint and should not exceed 10% of your Bedlington Terrier’s daily calorie consumption.
- Hydration: Provide your Bedlington Terrier with plenty of fresh, clean water at all times.
Basic Nutritional Needs
Bedlington Terriers require a balanced diet with essential nutrients to maintain their health and well-being. A well-balanced diet should include high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the right proportions. Here are the three fundamental components of a Bedlington Terrier’s diet:
Protein
Bedlington Terriers require a protein-rich diet to maintain their muscle mass and strength. A high-quality protein source should be the primary ingredient in their food. Good protein sources include chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, fish, and eggs. In addition, a Bedlington Terrier’s diet should contain at least 18-20% protein.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide Bedlington Terriers the energy they need to stay active throughout the day. Good sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, as confirmed by Harvard University. In addition, a Bedlington Terrier’s diet should contain at least 30% carbohydrates.
Fats
Fats are essential to a Bedlington Terrier’s diet as they provide energy, support healthy skin and coats, and aid in absorbing essential vitamins. Good sources of fats include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chicken fat. In addition, a Bedlington Terrier’s diet should contain at least 8-10% fat.
Please be aware that the specific nutritional needs of your Bedlington Terrier may differ based on their age, activity, and overall health. Therefore, you should consult a veterinarian for their dietary requirements.
Food to Avoid
Bedlington Terriers are known to have food allergies or sensitivities. As a responsible pet owner, knowing which foods are toxic to them and which human foods to avoid is essential.
Toxic Foods
Based on observation, some human foods are toxic to Bedlington Terriers and can cause severe health problems or even death. Here are some foods to avoid:
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Avocado
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Macadamia nuts
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candy)
Human Foods to Avoid
While some human foods are safe for Bedlington Terriers, others can be harmful or cause digestive issues. Here are some human foods to avoid:
Foods to Avoid
Why Avoid
Dairy products
Bedlington Terriers are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy products properly.
Fatty foods
It’s important to be mindful of the weight of Bedlington Terriers, as they are prone to obesity. Feeding them fatty foods can lead to health issues and unwanted weight gain.
Bones
Bones can cause choking, dental fractures, or even digestive problems.
Spicy foods
Bedlington Terriers have sensitive stomachs and can experience vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestive issues.
For the best advice, it’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian. to determine the best diet for your Bedlington Terrier. A well-balanced diet that matches their nutritional requirements will keep them healthy and happy.
Feeding Schedule
Bedlington Terriers require a well-balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a consistent feeding routine to prevent overeating or undernourishment. Here are some guidelines for feeding your Bedlington Terrier:
- Provide two meals daily, one in the morning and one in the evening.
- Avoid free-feeding or leaving food out all day, which can lead to obesity.
- Measure the appropriate amount of food for each meal based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
- For adult Bedlington Terriers, feed about 1/2 to 1 cup of dry dog food daily, divided into two meals.
- Consult your veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations for puppies based on age and weight.
It is important to note that every dog is different and may have unique dietary needs. For example, some Bedlington Terriers may require more or less food depending on their activity level, age, and overall health. Therefore, always consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet.
Special Dietary Needs
Allergies
Bedlington Terriers are known to have sensitive stomachs and are prone to food allergies. It is important to monitor their diet and watch for any signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, vomiting, or diarrhea. Common food allergens for Bedlington Terriers include beef, chicken, dairy, and wheat. If your dog shows an allergic reaction, consult your veterinarian to determine the best action.
Medical Conditions
Bedlington Terriers are prone to certain medical conditions that may require special dietary needs. For example, they are prone to developing copper toxicosis, a condition that causes excessive accumulation of copper in the liver. Therefore, a low-copper diet may be recommended by your veterinarian to manage this condition.
Bedlington Terriers are also prone to obesity and weight gain. Monitoring their calorie intake and providing a well-balanced diet rich in protein and low in fat is essential. Feeding your dog small, frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent overeating and weight gain. Additionally, Bedlington Terriers are prone to dental issues. Feeding your dog dry kibble or dental chews can help promote healthy teeth and gums.
