Do you really know all there is to know about your canine companions nutritional needs? Many pet owners think theyre doing whats best for their dogs when it comes to food, but in reality they rely on pure instinct more than science. Nutrition isnt a guessing game, even when it comes to your pooch. Think about it if you were left to feed yourself based only on what you craved and had no knowledge of what your body needs to function, would you be eating 5 servings of fruit and veggies or would you head straight for the Ding Dong case at the market?

1. Cover all of the bases.

A dogs diet can be as complex as any humans (including yours!), and its absolutely essential that you, as an owner, hit all of the vital nutritional bases. A deficiency of certain vitamins and nutrients can lead to upset tummies, overly dry or oily skin, brittle bones, weight issues, and, in some of the worst cases, death. A balanced and proper diet is the building block of your dogs overall health if he doesnt get the right blend of nutrients, the most impeccable care otherwise wont mean a thing. But with the right diet, his defenses against disease and disorders are infinitely stronger than a dog whose owner hasnt put much thought into an eating plan.

2. Mix it up!

For the most part, pre-packaged food will help you cover all of the major nutritional requirements a healthy, fairly young dog has. This where many owners trip up simply because of the ease of the decision. Most think that the major choice is between dry and moist food, when in reality the best diet you can provide your dog is one varied in ingredients, textures, and nutritional value. Dogs, of course, are carnivores, and that instinct remains in their blood to this day. They continue to hunt prey (poor Kitty), love sausage-flavored treats, and adore the great crunch they get when chowing down on a bone. Those varied elements should give you a little bit of insight into how diverse your dogs diet can be.

3. Move beyond meat.

Building some portion of his diet from meat gives you many of the crucial nutrients he needs for energy and growth, but he also needs fiber and carbohydrates to aid in digestion and stability. You could throw down a bowl of dry food every day and maybe give him a treat of moist food once a month, but how would you like it if the tables were turned and he insisted on feeding you pancakes every day for the rest of your life? Not such a sunny outlook, is it?

4. Make it a real meal.

Listen, nobody ever said you had to rely on a bag or can of food to feed your dog. You cook for your family all the time. Doesnt your dog deserve similar treatment? Most owners say theyd love to cook for their pups but just dont know where to start, and thats where I come in. Now you can help fulfill all of your dogs nutritional needs as well as his taste desires with just one quick flip through my new book, 180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Recipes. I know, I know, youre busy, and theres barely time to cook your family a proper meal. Thats why youll love this book in addition to covering all of the usual recipes like traditional dog chow and cookies, Ive created several that are healthy and delicious enough for you, your dog, and your family. Being skeptical is natural; after all, I never dreamed Id come up with recipes I could easily share with my dogs! But how can you pass up recipes like biscotti, muffins, omelettes, dinner mints, and even sushi?

5. Give him some green.

Your dog needs a well-balanced diet, and the best way to accomplish that is through a wide variety of ingredients. Did you know that many dogs love veggies? In fact, if your dog likes to nibble on grass, he may appreciate some of the veggie-oriented recipes in the cookbook. Give it a shot and see what you and your dog think. After all, the worst that could happen is an improvement in your poochs health!

The only set rule in feeding your pup is to make sure his meals satisfy the unique nutritional requirements any dog has. You don't have to stick to the bag or the can, and you don't have to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Making dishes for your dog can be a family event, and nothing expresses gratitude better than a big, sloppy, wet kiss. "180 Delicious Gourmet Dog Food Recipes" features a huge array of delectable treats made to please any pup... but you'll be amazed at how many you can eat, too! It's a great starting point for any well-rounded nutritional plan for your dog. You'll both be happy you made the investment!