DEAR PET TALK: My question is about giving my dog supplemental nutrition. What is recommended for a six-year old medium-sized mutt? — MUTT LOVER

DEAR MUTT LOVER: We are big-time “mutt lovers” here at Pet Talk —  dogs that are a hodge podge of ancestries are always interesting to talk about. And by “supplemental nutrition” I’m going to assume add-ins as well as treats will be covered.

For a 6-year-old medium dog, the recommended nutrition is a balanced adult maintenance diet, adjusted based on their specific activity level, weight, and overall health. While your dog is an adult, you should start monitoring for signs of aging, as a dietary change may be needed in the next few years.

First, understand that your dog needs an appropriate balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, fiber, and minerals. All of these components have similar effects on canines as they do for humans; for example, fiber helps support a dog’s digestive system, as it does for us. Recommended amount of fiber in dog food is 2.5 to 4.5%. Protein recommendations are 18% (minimum) which come from high-quality animal sources such as beef, chicken, or fish. Carbohydrates provide energy and fiber. A dog who is six years old will be more active than a dog who is ten; and much less active than a dog that is two years old, so monitoring the appropriate food for the age and stage your dog is in life is key for health.

At our house, we’ve had good luck with a product called “Canine Boost” made by Ultimate Pet Nutrition. This is a company that creates products for dogs and cats. Their “Boost” brand includes a variety of nutrients including probiotics, vitamins and minerals and beef bone broth (trying saying that three times quickly). Adding a scoop to your dog’s dinner is easily done, and the ingredients are helpful for promoting a healthy coat and skin. Our dog has developed allergies in the spring, so we’re hopeful that some dietary additions will alleviate that issue next year.

As always, if you are making changes in your pet’s diet, make sure you research and we always recommend making a call to your vet. Another reason why it’s important to have a yearly check-up for your dog or cat is to have a relationship with a vet care professional who can answer questions such as yours —  and who already knows your dog!

Bon appetit, to you and your pup!

Sally Cragin is the director of Be PAWSitive: Therapy Pets and Community Education. Send questions to sallycragin@gmail.com