Many dog-owners believe that their pets are smarter about their own food requirements than man is. They feel that a dog's desire for a particular food or grass is a sign of nutritional need.

But can dogs really balance their own diet? Do they have an instinct for the foods they need for proper growth and health?

To answer these questions, a group of Beagle puppies were placed on test at the Purina Dog Care Center, St. Louis.

The puppies were divided into two groups: Half of the puppies were designated "Group A," and the others, "Group B."

"Group A" puppies were given a complete, balanced ration with all of the ingredients mixed together in semi-purified form. Their food was offered in a single self-feeding dish.

"Group B" puppies were given exactly the same ration, except that it was not mixed. Each of the various nutrient sources in this component diet was offered individually in separate self-feeding dishes. If they chose, these puppies could nibble on some protein, for example, then move on to the salt, vitamins, carbohydrates, minerals or soy and corn oil. Both groups were allowed to eat all they desired.

At the start of the test the average weight of the puppies in both groups was 4.2 pounds per puppy. At 10 weeks of age, the puppies in "Group A" (the ones that were fed the complete, balanced ration), had grown to an average of 8.7 pounds each. However, the "Group B" puppies that could pick and choose, were a puny 3.6 pounds.

Because of their extremely poor physical condition, the "Group B" puppies were then given the same blended ration as those in "Group A." In just three days the stunted pups showed noticeable improvement. By the time they were 14 weeks old, they had started to catch up and averaged 7.6 pounds compared with the "Group A," which now averaged 11.9 pounds.

This test indicates that when it comes to good eating habits, man's knowledge is far superior to a dog's instinct. Man can be a dog's best friend by selecting, and providing his pet with a well-balanced diet.
-James E. Corbin, DVM