HelloBello answers the 12 most burning questions about dogs!

How long do dogs actually live, and what can I feed my dog? Almost every dog owner or dog lover asks these and many other questions. The aim of this blog is to provide well-founded answers to the most pressing and frequently asked questions. Whether you have just adopted your first dog or are already an experienced pro, there is always something new to learn. In this guide, you will find answers to a wide range of topics, from dog nutrition to training and health.

Most dogs live for about 10 to 13 years. Small breeds tend to have a longer life expectancy than large dogs, as the latter age faster and are more susceptible to problems such as joint diseases. A balanced diet, for example with freshly prepared dog food from HelloBello, as well as regular check-ups, can have a positive effect on their lifespan.

Dogs perceive the world completely differently from us humans. While we see a huge color spectrum, dogs mainly recognize blue and yellow tones; red appears more like gray to them. In return, they orient themselves much better than we do in poor lighting conditions, as their eyes have more light-sensitive cells and a special reflective layer.

On average, dogs sleep about 12 to 14 hours a day. Puppies need up to 20 hours for their development, while seniors with declining activity often get 16 to 18 hours of sleep. It is important to allow the dog enough rest periods so that he stays healthy and balanced.

There are some foods that dogs should absolutely avoid, as they can be toxic or harmful to them. At the top of the list is chocolate, which contains theobromine, a substance that can cause severe poisoning symptoms in dogs such as vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, and even death. Raisins and grapes can cause acute kidney problems even in small quantities and should also not be fed to dogs.

Dogs should also not eat onions or garlic. Both can cause severe anemia in dogs, and even small doses over a long period can be harmful. The persin contained in avocados is dangerous for dogs and can cause gastrointestinal problems. Alcohol in any form is extremely dangerous and can lead to poisoning symptoms such as coordination problems, vomiting, and shortness of breath.

Also coffee, tea and caffeinated foods can lead to severe poisoning in dogs. The artificial sweetener xylitol, which is used in sugar-free products, can lead to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels and liver damage.

Macadamia nuts should not be fed to dogs, as they can cause tremors and weakness. Cooked bones can break in dogs and cause internal injuries. Dairy products such as milk and cheese should be avoided in some dogs with lactose intolerance, as they can cause gastrointestinal problems. To maintain your dog's health, it is advisable to only give him dog food and snacks and to ensure that he has no access to potentially dangerous foods. If you suspect that your dog has eaten something toxic, you should see a veterinarian immediately.

There is a wide variety of foods that dogs can eat healthily and safely, and the selection is large. The basis for the dog's nutrition is a high-quality dog food, which contains all the important nutrients in sufficient quantities.

In addition to dog food, the following foods are also suitable for dogs: meat such as beef, chicken, cooked pork, turkey, and lamb are good sources of protein. Cooked or grilled fish such as salmon or mackerel is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be fed in moderate quantities.

Many dogs love eating vegetables such as carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes, as they contain fiber and vitamins.Dogs can eat some fruits such as apples and bananas as a snack, but always remove the seeds and pits. Oats and rice are grains that are easy to digest and can be used in small quantities as a side dish with meat or vegetables.Your dog can receive many probiotics and improve his digestion with unsweetened natural yogurt.

Occasionally you can give your dog cooked eggs, as they are rich in protein. Some dogs tolerate cheese well and can get small portions as a reward.

Dog breeds such as Poodles, Bichon Frisés, and Maltese are known for their low shedding. Poodles have curly, hairless coats and are available in various sizes such as Standard, Mini, and Toy. Maltese and Bichon Frisés are small dog breeds with silky, low-shedding coats.

The Portuguese Water Dog has a curly or wavy coat and is often considered hypoallergenic. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Havanese also tend to shed. There are also hypoallergenic mixed-breed dogs, especially if they come from hypoallergenic parents.

Although they are less prone to shedding, regular coat care and brushing are important to reduce allergens and hair in the home. Before you adopt a dog, it is advisable to spend time with potentially hypoallergenic dogs to ensure that you react well to the dog.

Dogs lick people for a variety of reasons. It can be a sign of love, cleanliness, interaction, or curiosity. It often serves to communicate and express bonds. There are situations in which excessive licking can be a sign of health or behavioral problems that require further investigation.

Read also: Food allergies in dogs: These 5 symptoms you need to pay attention to

Dogs grow fastest during the puppy phase, with small breeds being fully grown in about 9-12 months, while larger breeds take longer, often up to 18-24 months or longer. Most dogs grow more slowly in their youth and develop muscle and bone mass before they are fully grown.

Nutrition plays an important role, and a balanced diet is especially important during growth. Freshly cooked meals like those from HelloBello are particularly recommended here. Talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog's growth. You can give your dog specific information about its breed and its needs and ensure that it receives the best possible nutrition during growth to become healthy and strong.

The best dog food consists of a balanced composition that meets the specific needs of your dog. To meet your dog's protein requirements, it should contain high-quality animal proteins such as beef, fish, or chicken. Healthy carbohydrates such as whole grain rice or sweet potatoes, as well as important vitamins and minerals, are also important. Avoid dog food with artificial colors and preservatives as well as low-quality fillers such as soy or corn. Please note that dog breeds, sizes, and styles can vary.

HelloBello is a company that specializes in freshly cooked dog food. They offer menus tailored to the individual needs of the dog. These fresh meals are prepared without artificial ingredients so that the nutrients are preserved. HelloBello is a good choice to ensure that your dog receives a balanced and healthy diet that meets its individual needs. Hundreds of dog owners are firmly convinced that HelloBello fresh food offers the best dog nutrition on the food market. 

Dog food prices can vary depending on the brand, quality, and type of food. Cheap dog food is affordable, but often uses low-quality ingredients. High-quality food is more expensive, but offers natural ingredients and special adjustments. There is an increase in prices per kilogram. A good way to save money and still give your four-legged friend high-quality, healthy food is to feed high-quality food in smaller portions, which can reduce costs. HelloBello offers the "half pension" option here, for example. Here you can affordably order high-quality food for your dog and also feed other varieties at the same time. Costs may vary depending on location. To find the best food for your dog, taking your budget into account, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian or nutrition expert.

If you want to make dog food yourself, consider the following points:

1. Consult a veterinarian to understand your dog's needs.
2. Make sure of a balanced diet with proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
3. Use high-quality, unprocessed ingredients.
4. Add supplements to ensure all necessary vitamins and minerals.
5. Consider your dog's allergies and intolerances.
6. Pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene during preparation and storage.
7. Control portion sizes to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding.
8. Observe your dog for changes in behavior and health after introducing homemade food

Of course, there are also ways to feed your dog freshly cooked dog food without having to do much yourself. HelloBello is a good solution here. Simply configure food for your dog online and have it delivered frozen to your home.

If dogs suffer from grain allergies or intolerances, it is advisable to choose grain-free dog food. Omitting grain can be a good way in such cases to avoid digestive problems and allergies. Some dog owners also prefer grain-free dog food because it often contains a higher proportion of animal protein and fewer carbohydrates, which better meets the needs of their dogs.

However, it is important to emphasize that grain is not harmful to most dogs when fed alone. Many dog foods available in stores contain high-quality grains such as oats or rice, which are a good source of carbohydrates and nutrients. Talk to your veterinarian before buying grain-free dog food to ensure that it is really necessary and meets the individual needs of your dog.