Bomb Detection Dogs Diet

Did you know that working dogs, dogs in the service of police and military forces, and especially bomb detection dogs, have to stay in top shape?

Did you know that explosive detection dogs can work until the age of 7 and sometimes even 8?

How do dog trainers and handlers keep these dogs in such perfect shape for so long?

There are 4 major parameters that a trainer needs to take care of in order to achieve such a life span:

Good kenneling – spacious, temperature control, built from durable material without any parts that can hurt the dog.
Constant veterinary supervision, preferably by a veterinarian who specializes in working dogs
Positive rewarding the dog to keep him motivated and happy to work. Never, ever punish your dog in order to train him. Punishment is used in extreme cases of disobedience and only when a dog does something dangerous. Positive reinforcement is the key for a good working dog performance.
And most important – diet!

Dogs do not need a lot of food, and actually, too much food can cause obesity and illness, just like in humans. This is even more important for working dogs, as these dogs need to stay healthy and athletic throughout their working period.

Working dogs and dogs that are used for detection missions – bombs, explosives, drugs, etc., should get 2 relatively small portions of dog food per day. However, the type of food is also very important. Good working dog handlers will feed their detection dogs the best food available in their country. This food should be balanced in terms of nutritional ingredients and should contain the right amount of proteins and vitamins. Examples of 2 brands of high-quality dog food for working dogs – ProPlan & Canine Caviar.

So how much should a working dog be fed per day? Around 1.1-1.3 lbs. per day (500-600 grams), depending on breed, weight and nature of the work that the dog is required to perform.

One might think that 2 portions of 300 grams per day is not enough, but such a diet is in fact what keeps a working dog in top shape over time.

Another very important point that trainers tend to forget is food rewarding. High-quality detection dogs are rewarded with toys (ball, puppy roll, etc.), and not with food or treats. Food rewarding can cause excess weight and obesity because it is actually extra, unnecessary feeding.

Now, what can owners of pet dog learn from the diet of bomb detection dogs? Very simple: If you wish to keep your dog healthy and want to enjoy each other for the longest possible time, don’t feed your dog too much! Keep him on a regular diet, stop feeding him leftovers, and give him fewer treats. If you want your dog to be happy, play with him, train him, but never overfeed him!

How much should you feed your dog?  see our dog food calories calculator

Every dog owner asks himself this question “How much food should i feed my dog?”

This is a good question since the dog will not say “Thanks you, I’m full….”, some dogs will simply eat and eat until they have finished all the dog food presented to them.

Trainers of working dogs believe that in order for their dogs to keep healthy and fit to work, the amount of dog food they need per day is relatively small however it should be of the best type of dog food – most nutritious, less preservatives and colors and from a well-known brand.  Work dogs eat between 400-600 grams (about 1 pound) per day and that’s it! no leftovers from our meals and no snacks.

But most of dog owners are not keeping a working dog, so how much should they feed their dog?

The answer is very simple – Use our dog food calories calculator to find out how much exactly your dog should eat!

Another great way to make sure your dog stays healthy is to cook for it !!!!
Yep, it is much easier than you think and it is a lot of fun.

A great way to start is this free dog food recipes book <—–Click