The Boston Terrier needs to eat highly nutritious food to maintain their compact and muscular body. This dog needs to eat to be a great companion. Boston Terriers have some specific nutritional needs; their diet should be easily digestible with high-quality nutrient sources.
Boston Terriers can eat a series of food just like other dogs; it is not just about feeding dogs; it is about ensuring the dog is getting nutrients of the right quality and adequate quality for proper nourishment. Find out the nutrient requirements, best food, and fruits to give Boston Terriers.
Boston Terrier’s Nutritional Requirements
Before thinking of what to give your Boston Terrier to eat, let’s take a look at what essential nutrients dogs need in their diet to be healthy. Whether you buy your dog food or make it yourself, your Boston needs a balanced diet that contains:
Protein: High-quality protein from animal sources should make up 18-25% of a Boston Terrier’s diet. Protein provides amino acids that help build and maintain muscle mass. The best sources of protein in Boston Terrier’s diet are chicken, beef, or fish.
Fat: Boston Terriers need fat around 15-20% in their diet as an additional energy source. Fat provides concentrated energy and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Sources of fat in Boston Terrier’s diet are chicken fat, fish oil, etc.
Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy in a dog’s diet. Whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal provide lasting energy. Fiber helps regulate digestion and maintain good weight gain.
Mineral: Calcium and Phosphorus are the two most important minerals in Boston Terrier’s diet. These minerals support bone health and development, especially for growing puppies. The recommended ratio of Ca:P ratio around 1.2:1.
Vitamins: Boston Terrier requires both the fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins. Vitamins A and C help boost immunity and antioxidant status; vitamins can be supplemented in Boston Terrier’s diet through the inclusion of fruits and veggies.
Water: Water is the most important nutrient in Boston Terrier’s diet. Clean and fresh water must be available always. Water aids digestion and helps to regulate the body temperature. Without water, Boston Terrier is prone to dehydration, intestinal compaction, and panting.
Now that you know the nutrients that must be included in a Boston Terrier’s diet, you must ensure you check the label of every food you buy for your Boston Terrier to ascertain the presence of each nutrient.
Best Foods for Boston Terrier Puppies
Boston terrier puppies have specific nutritional needs to support their rapid growth and development. It’s important to feed high-quality puppy food formulated for small or medium dogs. Look for a food that contains 25-30% protein and 15-20% fat from quality animal sources.
The kibble size should be small enough for your puppy to chew and digest properly. Reputable brands that make good puppy foods for Boston terriers include:
- Royal Canin
- Hill’s Science Diet
- Purina Pro Plan
- Iams
- Eukanuba
You can log on to their websites to check the catalog for available food for your Boston terrier.
Boston terrier puppies need to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. Boston Terrier puppies should be fed 3-4 small meals per day until around 6 months of age. Then, gradually transition to 2 meals per day. Do not tolerate free feeding; it can lead to overeating and obesity.
Adhere strictly to the feeding guidelines on the puppy food package based on your pup’s age and weight. You can adjust portions if needed to maintain an ideal lean body weight. Always make sure fresh water is available at all times.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods commonly cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in Boston Terriers and should be avoided. They are:
– Wheat: Wheat is a common allergen for many dogs, and Boston Terriers are no exception. Wheat can cause gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and gas.
– Corn: Corn is another ingredient that often causes food sensitivities in Boston Terriers. The symptoms are similar to wheat allergies.
– Soy: Soy is found in many commercial dog foods as a protein source. However, soy is linked to food allergies and intolerances in dogs. It’s best to avoid soy-based foods for Boston Terriers.
– Fatty Foods: Fatty meats and oils can lead to pancreatitis in Boston Terriers. This is a serious health condition, so it’s important to avoid feeding too much fat. Stick to lean meats and limit oils and butter.
Fruits and Vegetables That Boston Terriers Eat
Fruits and vegetables can be a healthy part of a Boston Terrier’s diet and provide important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Here are some good options:
- Apples: An excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. Be sure to remove seeds and core first.
- Bananas: A great treat that provides potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and fiber. Serve small pieces.
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, manganese, and vitamin C. Boston Terriers love the sweet taste.
- Broccoli: High in vitamin C, calcium, and fiber. Chop into bite-size pieces first.
- Carrots: Full of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. it can be served raw, cooked, or frozen.
- Cucumbers: Low-calorie, high-water content. It provides vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium.
- Green beans: Nutritious and low calorie. High in vitamin C, K, and fiber. Chop before serving.
- Pumpkin: Provides vitamins A, C, E, potassium, and fiber. Make sure it is plain, not spiced.
- Sweet potatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. Cook thoroughly and mash.
- Watermelon: Hydrating, nutritious. Contains vitamins A, C, and potassium. Remove the rind and seeds first.
Fruits and veggies make great additions to a Boston Terrier’s diet in moderation; they are good sources of vitamins and minerals. When introducing new fruits and vegetables, only add one at a time. Monitor your Boston Terrier for any signs of digestive upset or allergies.
Human Food and Treats For Boston Terriers
Boston terriers love human food and treats too. While it’s fine to give them the occasional table scrap or treat, try not to overdo it. Too many extra calories can quickly lead to obesity. Here are some guidelines on safe human foods and appropriate treats for Boston terriers:
– Lean Meats: Small shreds of chicken, beef, pork, turkey, etc. are safe treats. Avoid fatty cuts and seasonings. A few bites 1-2 times per week is plenty.
– Fish: Flakes of cooked salmon, tuna, or other fish make healthy treats. Again, limit to a few bites only occasionally.
– Cheese: Small cubes of low-fat cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella are usually well tolerated. Limit to a few small pieces 1-2 times per week.
– Peanut Butter: A spoonful of all-natural peanut butter with no added sugar or xylitol can be given occasionally. Make sure your dog licks it off, don’t let them swallow big globs which could cause choking.
– Fruits & Veggies: Bits of apple, banana, blueberries, carrot, green beans, etc are great for treats. Limit to 1-2 tbsp a couple times a week.
– Treats: Commercial treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Read labels and aim for treats under 5 calories each. 5-10 small treats daily is a good limit.
The key to feeding Boston terriers human food and treats is moderation; human food should be no more than 10-15% of your Boston’s overall diet. Track portions carefully to prevent weight gain and obesity.
Foods Toxic to Boston Terriers
Certain human foods can be very dangerous and even fatal to Boston Terriers. Boston Terrier owners need to be aware of foods that should be avoided. Here are some of the most hazardous foods for Boston Terriers:
1) Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine; these are toxic to dogs. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and death in dogs.
2) Grapes & Raisins: Grapes and raisins, even in small quantities, can cause severe kidney damage leading to kidney failure in dogs. Experts are not yet sure exactly what makes grapes and raisins so toxic to dogs. No amount is considered safe.
3) Onions & Garlic: Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs if ingested in large amounts. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and pale gums. Garlic is considered more toxic than onions.
4) Xylitol: Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and other products. It can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver damage, and death in dogs.
5) Alcohol: Alcohol has the same effect on dogs as humans if ingested. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, coma, and death.
6) Macadamia Nuts: Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, hyperthermia, abdominal pain, stiffness, and pale gums in dogs. The specific toxin is unknown.
7) Avocados: Avocado fruit, pits, leaves, and bark contain persin, which is toxic to dogs and can damage tissue and cells. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, fluid accumulation in the chest, abdomen, or heart, and even death.
Related: Puppy Feeding Guide: What & How Much To Feed
End Note,
Boston terriers live healthy when they eat a high-quality diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Treats can provide additional nutrients but must be given at a moderate rate. The most important of all the nutrients is water. ensure your dog has access to clean water always.