We feed and condition our dogs like professional athletes. The fuel we put into them is the cheapest part of the race. The preparation determines the length and outcome of the race. We need our dogs to respond and recover from daily training, trialing or hunting situations and live a long life!

1. Water quality and quantity (availability) is the most important nutrient in a performance animal. Hydration makes up over 80% of our bodies.
2. Dogs have different nutrient requirements depending on several factors below:
   1. Age – growth, adult or senior age in life cycle.
   2. Size – related to mature body weight.
   3. Environment – important to adjust calories required to maintain activity.
   4. Activity – low, medium and high levels have different requirements.
   5. Reproductive – stage or gestation, lactating, or breeding males.
   6. Allergies to ingredients vary and can cause subclinical issues.
   7. Genetics – metabolisms vary by breeds and even within breeds.
3. Understand that feeding directions are only guidelines!
   1. Feed to condition, not by cups or weight. A measuring cup is 8 oz!
   2. Monitor body condition of your dogs regularly.
   3. Most dogs are overfed, which can cause structure/health problems.
   4. Stool texture and volume is not always an accurate measurement.
4. Timing and feeding practices are important.
   1. Late feeding will eliminate energy spurts and stomach disorders.
5. There are advantages and disadvantages to self-feeding!
1. Keep from feeding 2-3 hours before or after activity.
6. Calories per cup (or pound) is the most important information on the bag!
   1. Fat and protein levels should not be factored in a buying decision.
   2. Ingredient selection of top10 ingredients will determine digestibility.
   3. A new dog food should be given a minimum of six months.

We feed and recommend Native performance dog food.