Veterinary dog foods (also called therapeutic dog foods or prescription dog foods) are designed to meet a dog’s general nutritional needs. Some are formulated for long-term feeding, while others may only be recommended for shorter periods of use. At the same time, veterinary dog food can help manage a particular health condition (food allergies, kidney disease, or arthritis, for example) because specific nutrients or ingredients are added, eliminated, or adjusted. A veterinarian’s approval is necessary before purchasing a prescription dog food. Why? Giving these therapeutic foods to the wrong dog or without adequate monitoring can, at best, not help, and at worst, lead to new health problems. Let’s look at the types of prescription dog foods a veterinarian might recommend. ,Diet is an important part of treating many common health conditions in dogs. Sometimes pet parents can meet a dog’s needs with over-the-counter foods, but veterinary dog foods can provide even greater benefits, such as reducing or even eliminating the need for medications or other types of treatment. Here’s what to know about veterinary dog food and if it’s right for your pup. Always speak with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet, especially if they are dealing with a health problem.