Dry Food for Sled Dogs

Sled dogs are usually a heavy coated breed of dog bred to pull exceptional loads of weight for long distances. This results in a very active dog with the need for joint and muscle support that may go beyond their pet counterparts. It is very important to remember that there is a significant amount of stress on a sled dog's body.

  1. Meats

    • Meats should be required to make up the majority of a sled dog's food. Dogs are omnivores that rely heavily on meat to stay healthy. Examples of good sources of meat in dry kibble are beef, chicken, bison, venison, fish, turkey, lamb and rabbit. Most dry foods add "meals" of these meats to the food, which only means that the meat has been dried and ground into a crumbly substance. On the ingredient list on the back of the bag, whole meats and meat meals should be the primary ingredients.

    Grains, Fruits and Vegetables

    • Sled dogs require a variety of vegetables and fruits to stay in top condition. They support a high-protein kibble to keep the dog healthy with a mixture of vitamins. Grains are a controversial subject. Many people believe that they are required for the vital carbohydrates to give the dog energy. This is somewhat true, but carbohydrates can be derived from potatoes, sweet potatoes and many other vegetables as well. Some dogs may be allergic to certain grains. Examples of good grains, fruits and vegetables are potatoes, sweet potatoes, blueberries, barley, brown rice and carrots.

    What to Avoid

    • Many dog foods use fillers. Some of these fillers can be very harmful to high-energy dogs. Unnamed meats (like animal fat) may come from any animal, even other dogs. The same can be said of animal by-products, which are common ingredients. By-products should be avoided even when they are named since they are usually feet, hooves, ears, heads and other undesirable parts. The food should not contain corn or soy in any form; dogs are unable to digest it.

    Helpful Supplements

    • There are many supplements that assist the daily wear and tear on the body of a sled dog. Primarily, look for reputable ones that support both joints and ligaments. Glucosamine is often used and has many forms. Some foods come with glucosamine already added to it. Other supplements to explore are ones that aid in circulation and heart function; however, these are numerous and are better recommended by a veterinarian.

    How Many Calories Are Too Many?

    • Higher protein diets usually result in higher amounts of calories being ingested by the dog. It is best to consult a vet regarding exactly how many calories a working animal should have per day. Adjust the food accordingly. Avoid allowing sled dogs to "free feed" when they wish to eat. Bloat, a potentially deadly situation, occurs when an animal is allowed to eat too soon before or after eating.