As a loving owner of a Cavalier, it’s important to understand the significance of customizing their diet to align with their unique requirements. This includes considering their delicate digestive systems, inclination to gain weight easily, and susceptibility to cardiac issues. Creating a nutritionally balanced diet specifically for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels involves combining a top-quality commercial dog food with thoughtfully chosen human food additions, all while practicing careful portion control. This approach ensures optimal support for their unique requirements, acknowledging their sensitive digestion, predisposition to weight gain, and vulnerability to cardiac concerns.
Below are some dietary recommendations to help you ensure their well-being:
COMMERCIAL DOG FOOD
We feed our adult dogs PURINA PRO which we supplement with the "human" foods shown on this page.
We feed PURINA PUPPY to our dogs under 1 year of age. Photos of each and links to their website are below.
There are so many options available to new owners and whatever food you choose,make sure to opt for a high-quality, small-breed-specific commercial dog food that is formulated to address the unique needs of your Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
LOOK FOR A RECIPE THAT FEATURES:
Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, or fish as primary ingredients for muscle support without excessive fat.
Limited Fat: Controlled fat content to manage weight and prevent obesity, a common concern in this breed.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for heart health, one with added fish oil or flax seed to support the cardiovascular system.
Limited Sodium: Given their predisposition to cardiac issues, choose formulations with reduced sodium
Note: As with Purina, most companies also carry sensitive stomach or grain free versions of their food too.
We feed our adult dogs PURINA PRO which we supplement with the "human" foods shown on this page.
We feed PURINA PUPPY to our dogs under 1 year of age. Photos of each and links to their website are below.
There are so many options available to new owners and whatever food you choose,make sure to opt for a high-quality, small-breed-specific commercial dog food that is formulated to address the unique needs of your Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
LOOK FOR A RECIPE THAT FEATURES:
Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, or fish as primary ingredients for muscle support without excessive fat.
Limited Fat: Controlled fat content to manage weight and prevent obesity, a common concern in this breed.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for heart health, one with added fish oil or flax seed to support the cardiovascular system.
Limited Sodium: Given their predisposition to cardiac issues, choose formulations with reduced sodium
Note: As with Purina, most companies also carry sensitive stomach or grain free versions of their food too.
HUMAN FOOD SUPPLEMENTS
In addition to your commercial dog food you can incorporate small amounts of the following:
Lean Meats:
Incorporate small amounts of cooked, lean meats like chicken or turkey, to complement their dog food.
Heart-Healthy Fruits and Vegetables:
Include dog-safe fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants to support overall health.
Omega-3-Rich Fish:
Offer small portions of fatty fish like salmon for additional omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for cardiac health.
Probiotics:
Consider adding plain, unsweetened yogurt with probiotics to promote a healthy digestive system.
In addition to your commercial dog food you can incorporate small amounts of the following:
Lean Meats:
Incorporate small amounts of cooked, lean meats like chicken or turkey, to complement their dog food.
Heart-Healthy Fruits and Vegetables:
Include dog-safe fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants to support overall health.
Omega-3-Rich Fish:
Offer small portions of fatty fish like salmon for additional omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for cardiac health.
Probiotics:
Consider adding plain, unsweetened yogurt with probiotics to promote a healthy digestive system.
PORTION CONTROL
Due to their predisposition to weight gain and cardiac issues, practice strict portion control. Adjust portions based on your Cavalier's weight, age, and activity level. Regularly monitor their body condition and consult your veterinarian for guidance.
Due to their predisposition to weight gain and cardiac issues, practice strict portion control. Adjust portions based on your Cavalier's weight, age, and activity level. Regularly monitor their body condition and consult your veterinarian for guidance.
HYDRATION
Ensure constant access to fresh water to support overall health and proper kidney function. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your Cavalier's weight, cardiac health, and overall well-being. Your veterinarian can provide insights into any necessary dietary adjustments based on their individual health status.
Ensure constant access to fresh water to support overall health and proper kidney function. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your Cavalier's weight, cardiac health, and overall well-being. Your veterinarian can provide insights into any necessary dietary adjustments based on their individual health status.
PRESCRIPTION DIETS
In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend specialized prescription diets formulated to address specific health concerns. Follow their guidance closely for optimal results.
In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend specialized prescription diets formulated to address specific health concerns. Follow their guidance closely for optimal results.
REMEMBER
We are happy to provide you with some general guidelines for feeding your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, taking into consideration their specific needs and potential health concerns. However, it's important to note that individual dogs may have unique nutritional requirements, and consulting with your veterinarian is always recommended before making significant changes to your pet's diet.
We are happy to provide you with some general guidelines for feeding your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, taking into consideration their specific needs and potential health concerns. However, it's important to note that individual dogs may have unique nutritional requirements, and consulting with your veterinarian is always recommended before making significant changes to your pet's diet.
HERE ARE A FEW BREED-SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS
A Balanced Diet
Ensure a balanced diet that includes a mix of high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Protein is crucial for muscle maintenance and repair, while fats provide energy. Choose lean protein sources and incorporate healthy fats like fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids.
Limited Fat Intake
Cavaliers are prone to weight gain, which can exacerbate cardiac issues. Opt for a diet with controlled fat content to maintain a healthy weight. Include sources of healthy fats, such as fish oil, for cardiovascular support.
Low Sodium and Phosphorus
Reduce sodium intake to support heart health. Moderate phosphorus levels are also important, as excessive phosphorus can be detrimental to kidney function, which is crucial for overall health.
Whole Grains and Fiber
Choose whole grains like brown rice or quinoa for complex carbohydrates and fiber, promoting digestive health.
Fiber can help manage weight and support a healthy digestive system.
Limited Treats
Be mindful of treats and table scraps, as Cavaliers can easily gain weight.
Use treats sparingly and opt for healthy alternatives like small pieces of fresh fruits or vegetables.
Consult with your Veterinarian
Remember, these are general guidelines, and individual dogs may have unique nutritional needs.
Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes related to your dog's diet and health.
Your vet can give personalized advice while monitoring your Cavalier's weight and overall health.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to detect and address any health issues early on.
A Balanced Diet
Ensure a balanced diet that includes a mix of high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Protein is crucial for muscle maintenance and repair, while fats provide energy. Choose lean protein sources and incorporate healthy fats like fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids.
Limited Fat Intake
Cavaliers are prone to weight gain, which can exacerbate cardiac issues. Opt for a diet with controlled fat content to maintain a healthy weight. Include sources of healthy fats, such as fish oil, for cardiovascular support.
Low Sodium and Phosphorus
Reduce sodium intake to support heart health. Moderate phosphorus levels are also important, as excessive phosphorus can be detrimental to kidney function, which is crucial for overall health.
Whole Grains and Fiber
Choose whole grains like brown rice or quinoa for complex carbohydrates and fiber, promoting digestive health.
Fiber can help manage weight and support a healthy digestive system.
Limited Treats
Be mindful of treats and table scraps, as Cavaliers can easily gain weight.
Use treats sparingly and opt for healthy alternatives like small pieces of fresh fruits or vegetables.
Consult with your Veterinarian
Remember, these are general guidelines, and individual dogs may have unique nutritional needs.
Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes related to your dog's diet and health.
Your vet can give personalized advice while monitoring your Cavalier's weight and overall health.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to detect and address any health issues early on.
Home-Cooked Recipes
Below are some healthy recipes that can supplement your dog's commercial dog food diet.
Your veterinarian can help you to determine specific portion sizes based on your dog's weight, age, and activity level.
Recipe 1: Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew
Ingredients:
Lean chicken breast, cooked and shredded
Sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
Green beans, steamed and chopped
Carrots, steamed and chopped
Olive oil (as a source of healthy fat)
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients in appropriate proportions, considering your dog's size and dietary requirements.
Supplement with commercial dog food and feed in moderate portions, dividing the daily intake into multiple meals.
Recipe 2: Turkey and Sweet Potato Delight
Ingredients:
1 cup lean ground turkey, cooked
1/2 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
1/4 cup carrots, finely chopped and steamed
1/4 cup peas, steamed
1 tablespoon olive oil (as a source of healthy fat)
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground turkey, mashed sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, peas, and olive oil.
Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Divide the mixture into appropriate portion sizes based on your dog's weight and activity level.
Supplement with commercial dog food and feed in moderate portions, dividing the daily intake into multiple meals.
Serve in your dog's bowl and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Recipe 3: Salmon and Quinoa Medley
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cooked salmon, flaked
1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
1/4 cup green beans, steamed and chopped
1/4 cup carrots, steamed and diced
1 teaspoon fish oil (as a source of omega-3 fatty acids)
Instructions:
Cook the salmon and quinoa according to package instructions.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, cooked quinoa, chopped green beans, diced carrots, and fish oil.
Mix thoroughly to create a balanced meal.
Supplement with commercial dog food and feed in moderate portions, dividing the daily intake into multiple meals.
Adjust portion sizes based on your dog's individual needs and preferences.
Serve and refrigerate any leftovers for future meals.
Remember to monitor your dog's weight and adjust portion sizes accordingly. Always ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Consult with your veterinarian throughout the process. If you notice any adverse reactions or changes in your dog's health, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Below are some healthy recipes that can supplement your dog's commercial dog food diet.
Your veterinarian can help you to determine specific portion sizes based on your dog's weight, age, and activity level.
Recipe 1: Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew
Ingredients:
Lean chicken breast, cooked and shredded
Sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
Green beans, steamed and chopped
Carrots, steamed and chopped
Olive oil (as a source of healthy fat)
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients in appropriate proportions, considering your dog's size and dietary requirements.
Supplement with commercial dog food and feed in moderate portions, dividing the daily intake into multiple meals.
Recipe 2: Turkey and Sweet Potato Delight
Ingredients:
1 cup lean ground turkey, cooked
1/2 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
1/4 cup carrots, finely chopped and steamed
1/4 cup peas, steamed
1 tablespoon olive oil (as a source of healthy fat)
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground turkey, mashed sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, peas, and olive oil.
Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Divide the mixture into appropriate portion sizes based on your dog's weight and activity level.
Supplement with commercial dog food and feed in moderate portions, dividing the daily intake into multiple meals.
Serve in your dog's bowl and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Recipe 3: Salmon and Quinoa Medley
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cooked salmon, flaked
1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
1/4 cup green beans, steamed and chopped
1/4 cup carrots, steamed and diced
1 teaspoon fish oil (as a source of omega-3 fatty acids)
Instructions:
Cook the salmon and quinoa according to package instructions.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, cooked quinoa, chopped green beans, diced carrots, and fish oil.
Mix thoroughly to create a balanced meal.
Supplement with commercial dog food and feed in moderate portions, dividing the daily intake into multiple meals.
Adjust portion sizes based on your dog's individual needs and preferences.
Serve and refrigerate any leftovers for future meals.
Remember to monitor your dog's weight and adjust portion sizes accordingly. Always ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Consult with your veterinarian throughout the process. If you notice any adverse reactions or changes in your dog's health, contact your veterinarian immediately.