Who knew that a dog breed known for its short legs and long body could be such an icon of nobility? Believe it or not, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are favored by none other than Queen Elizabeth II herself. She’s owned over 30 of these charming pooches since childhood. If these pups are good enough for the Queen of England, they’re likely good enough for you too.
Now, if you’re the lucky owner of a Pembroke Welsh Corgi or planning to welcome one into your family, there’s something very important you’ll need to get right from the get-go: their diet. The best way to ensure a long, healthy, and happy life for your furry companion is by feeding them the right kind of food. But what is that exactly? Let’s dig in.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small dogs with serious appetites. They require a diet high in protein, moderate in fats, and low in carbs. Knowing this is one thing but putting it into practice is another. With the countless dog food options available, it can be an absolute minefield trying to decipher what’s best fruit for your furkid.
Let’s simplify things:
First, Corgis require a high protein diet. Protein is essential for the growth and maintenance of your corgi’s muscles, bones, hair, nails, skin and blood. It also provides them with the necessary energy to run around like the lovable goofballs they are. Sources of high-quality protein include chicken, turkey, beef, fish, and lamb. Fruits and vegetables can also contribute to the protein content – like peas, lentils and soybeans.
The second dietary requirement for a healthy Corgi is a moderate amount of fats. Healthy fats aid in the absorption of essential vitamins. They also help maintain healthy skin and add shine to their magnificent coats. Responsibly sourced fish oils like salmon are excellent for this, but other sources can include flaxseed and canola oil.
Lastly, Corgis should have a low carb diet. Their short legs and long bodies make them prone to obesity, so keeping an eye on their calorie intake is essential. You want carbs that are easy to digest like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and oats. Avoiding unnecessary fillers like corn, wheat, and soy is a good start.
But knowing what to feed your Corgi is only half the battle; you’ll need to know how much to feed them too. The amount of food your Corgi will need depends on their age, size, activity level, and metabolism.
Puppy Corgis, aged 8-12 weeks, should have four meals a day. Once they hit the 3-6 months mark, you could switch to three meals a day. By the time they’re 6 months to 1 year old, two meals a day should be enough. When they reach adulthood—at about one year of age—they can comfortably sustain on just one meal a day.
Of course, individual activity levels and metabolism rates play a huge role in determining how much food your Corgi should eat. Remember, they are prone to gaining weight, and obesity in dogs can lead to serious health issues like joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, always watch your pet’s weight, and adjust their meal size accordingly.
Lastly, your Corgi’s diet should not only be nourishing but also enticing. If they refuse to eat or seem uninterested, try changing their meal composition or feeding them at different times of the day.
In conclusion, when it comes to feeding your Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the key is to give them food that is high in protein, moderate in fats, and low in carbs. Ensure to monitor their weight and adjust meal portions accordingly. Making their diet both nutritious and exciting can make meal times the highlight of your pet’s day. And remember, just like humans, every Corgi is unique. So, take the time to understand your pet and their dietary needs. After all, a healthy Corgi is a happy Corgi!