26/08/2025
Dog Care Series – Episode 3 Africa’s Wild Diaries
Food & Nutrition: What Dogs Should (and Shouldn’t) Eat
When Bello first arrived at Ifeoma’s home, he devoured anything he found—bread, scraps, even old bones from the dustbin. Hunger had made him careless, and it showed in his weak frame and constant stomach troubles.
Ifeoma quickly learned that feeding a dog is more than just giving it food—it’s about giving it the right food.
One morning, she cooked a simple mix of rice, small fish, and carrots. Bello ate eagerly, but this time, instead of sickness, he wagged his tail and licked his bowl clean. Over time, with balanced meals and fresh water, Bello’s coat grew shiny, his energy returned, and he became the strong, playful dog he was meant to be.
Practical Dog Care Tips – Nutrition
✅ Balanced Diet Components:
Protein: Fish, beef, eggs, or goat meat for strength.
Carbohydrates: Rice, yam, sweet potatoes for energy.
Vegetables: Carrots, pumpkin, green beans for vitamins.
Fresh water: Clean water must always be available.
✅ Dangerous Foods to Avoid:
Chocolate – toxic for dogs.
Onions & garlic – damage red blood cells.
Sharp chicken/fish bones – can splinter and injure the throat or stomach.
Excess oil or salt – bad for digestion and long-term health.
✅ Nigerian-Friendly Meal Ideas:
1. Rice + fish (deboned) + grated carrots.
2. Sweet potatoes + eggs + pumpkin.
3. Plain pap (akamu) with boiled egg (as an occasional treat).
4. Dog kibble (when affordable) mixed with vegetables.
Tip: Keep meals simple, fresh, and safe. If you can’t eat it, don’t feed it to your dog.
Your Turn
What’s your dog’s favorite meal? Share it in the comments and let’s build a Nigerian-style healthy dog recipe list together!
Don’t forget to follow this series and share with friends—Episode 4 will cover “Vet Visits & Vaccinations: Keeping Bello Healthy.”