The particular best for the dog – relating to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which usually food is ideal where age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dog food to firm up stools, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and make clear how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dog food to firm up stools:
- Mark & Chapell Limited - Remedy loose stools — £7.54
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Protexin Veterinary Pro-Fibre for Dogs and Cats, 500g
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£11.94
£17.33 - Pro-Kolin for dogs and cats–Probiotic paste to support the gut 30ml + Syringe — £12.88
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Healthy Hounds Tummy Settler (100ml) | Up to 20 Servings | Diarrhoea...
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£13.19
£16.69 - Monbelle Digestion | Dog Digestion Supplement | All Ages | Probiotics,... — £14.99
- Pro-Kolin Advanced for Dogs Pro-Kolin Advanced for Dogs 30ml — £15.48
- PetExx Stomach Settler, Fast-acting Probiotic paste - Diarrhoea & Upset... — £16.00
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The Dog Doctors Tummy Settler For Fast Acting Relief From Loose Stools,...
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£21.99
£24.99 - HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg — £29.89
- PetExx Stomach Settler, Fast-acting Probiotic paste - Diarrhoea & Upset...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dog food to firm up stools of 2024. We would recommend using Mark & Chapell Limited – Remedy loose stools as it is one of the best products currently available in market.
Top 10 Best dog food to firm up stools
Best dog food to firm up stools
Mark & Chapell Limited - Remedy loose stools
Features
- SAFE AND EFFECTIVE - Ideal for puppies & kittens transitioning onto a new diet, contains calcium carbonate which helps to form a barrier along the gut assisting the natural balance of the digestive tract.
- SUPPORTS A HEALTHY INTESTINE - formulated to support a healthy intestinal tract, this stool firmer for dogs and cats, contains kaolin for toxin absorption, and inulin, a prebiotic fibre to promote the presence of good bacteria in your pet's gut.
- FORMULATED WITH PECTIN - harnessing the natural power of pectin and pumpkin, VETIQ Stool Firm for dogs & cats improves your pet’s stool texture. Give whole or crush over food and say goodbye to messy surprises and hello to a happier pet.
- TASTY TABLETS TO FIRM LOOSE STOOLS IN DOGS & CATS - Aids the relief of symptoms of mild diarrhoea. If your dog or cat is experiencing loose stools due to a change in diet, VETIQ Stool Firmer tablets can help restore normal bowel movements, so your pet absorbs all the nutrients they need to stay fit and healthy.
Pro-Kolin for dogs and cats–Probiotic paste to support the gut 30ml + Syringe
Features
- The UK's leading pet probiotic and prebiotic paste, used to support digestive disturbances
- Same great Pro-Kolin with a fresh new look
- Suitable for dogs and cats of all sizes
- Palatable artificial beef flavour and suitable for pets with meat allergies
- Helps to firm-up faeces. Soothes the gut lining
Healthy Hounds Tummy Settler (100ml) | Up to 20 Servings | Diarrhoea Treatment for Dogs | 100% Natural Fast Effective Tummy Settler for Dogs, Stomach Upsets, Loose Stools, Wind, Digestive Disorders
£13.19
Features
- FAST RELIEF TUMMY SETTLER: Our fast acting digestive supplement provides effective positive results in controlling and fixing bouts of diarrhea and stomach upset in dogs. Naturally restoring your dogs gut health and removing toxins.
- MORE EFFECTIVE THAN KAOLIN: Our diarrhoea suspension is easy to administer with the included syringe, and the veterinary formula is more effective than Kaolin as a tummy settler for your dog.
- HIGHLY ABSORBENT: This effective and rapid formula is highly absorbent. Containing Montmorillonite which binds to toxins in your dog's body, effectively removing them through the stool.
- CAN HELP WITH ALLERGIES IN YOUR DOG: The action of removing the toxins from your dog's body can also help with allergies that your pet may have.
- MADE IN THE UK: Healthy Hounds Tummy Setller is made under strict controls in the UK. It is natural and made to a veterinary formulation.
Monbelle Digestion | Dog Digestion Supplement | All Ages | Probiotics, Prebiotics | UK Manufactured | 120 tablets
Features
- KEEPS STOOLS FIRM - None of us likes to see our dogs struggling. Our proven formula actively helps to promote solid stools and reduce excess wind. Happy dogs all round.
- GOOD BACTERIA - Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, the prebiotics in Monbelle Digestion help to feed good bacteria for overall digestive health for your dog. Providing more benefits than other dog digestion supplements.
- EASY TO TAKE - Our supplements are perfect for all of our canine friends - even picky eaters won't find these an issue! You can give them to your dog either with their meals or as a treat during the day.
- TRUSTED BY VETS - Unlike other brands, at Monbelle we work closely with experts to create an optimal blend of vitamins and minerals for dogs. That's why we ensure all of our supplements are trusted by vets.
- PREMIUM QUALITY - We focus on giving our canine friends the best. That's why our supplements are created with the highest quality ingredients, in UK production facilities.
PetExx Stomach Settler, Fast-acting Probiotic paste - Diarrhoea & Upset Stomach Relief for cats & dogs - 30ml syringe - one dose per day - made in UK
Features
- HELPS PETS WITH UPSET STOMACHS & LOOSE STOOLS FAST - PetExx Stomach Settler is a fast acting probiotic paste which works to clear diarrhoea and upset stomachs with one easy to administer dose per day for 3 days - give directly orally or add to food
- CONTAINS PROBIOTICS & PREBIOTICS - these aid digestion & help maintain a healthy mix of bacteria in the gut. E-Faecium helps normalise fecal inconsistency which means no more loose stools
- TOXIN REMOVING CLAY - Bentonite Montmorillonite is present to help remove nasty toxins from the body by attaching itself to positively charged toxins and parasites. Also aids reduction in bloating, constipation, vomiting and gas.
- GUT CELL REPLACEMENT - L-Glutamine helps replace the cells that line the intestinal tract which are often damaged during periods of diarrhoea and vomiting.
- CONTAINS ELECTROLYTES - these help keep your pet hydrated during periods of diarrhea
Pro-Kolin Advanced for Dogs Pro-Kolin Advanced for Dogs 30ml
Features
- Pro-Kolin Advanced is a probiotic and prebiotic paste for dogs of all sizes.
- Supports your dog’s gastrointestinal function, firms-up faeces and soothes the gut lining.
- With probiotics, Preplex prebiotics, kaolin, montmorillonite, pectin, psyllium and beta-glucans.
- Pro-Kolin Advanced for Dogs has an artificial liver flavour for palatability and compliance.
- Pro-Kolin Advanced can be added to dog food or given directly to your pet.
The Dog Doctors Tummy Settler For Fast Acting Relief From Loose Stools, Digestive Issues & Diarrhoea - 50 Servings - Suitable For All Breeds & Sizes - Syringe Included to Easily Administer! (250ml)
£21.99
Features
- ✅ INSTANT RELIEF - In most cases will restore normal digestive systems after first use.
- ✅ Treats gassiness, itching, diarrhoea, constipation and loose stools.
- ✅ Relieves gastrointestinal inflammation and flatulence, with a fast acting soothing effect.
- ✅ Easily digestible with high absorbency ensuring fast action with immediate results. Research led product containing montmorillonite, proven more effective than Prokolin.
- ✅ TRY TODAY 100% RISK FREE - We are so confident you will love the results, we offer a 100% refund so you will not be left out of pocket!
Protexin Veterinary Pro-Fibre for Dogs and Cats, 500g
£11.94
Features
- Protexin Pro-Fibre is a high fibre probiotic and prebiotic pellet for dogs and cats.
- Containing natural sources of fibre (psyllium husk and sugar beet pulp), probiotics, and prebiotics.
- Artificial beef flavouring for palatability and pet compliance.
- Protexin Veterinary Pro-Fibre pellets can be added to your pet’s food to help promote efficient digestion.
- When used daily, Pro-Fibre for dogs and cats can help avoid the problems associated with insufficient dietary fibre.
PetExx Stomach Settler, Fast-acting Probiotic paste - Diarrhoea & Upset Stomach Relief for cats & dogs - 15ml syringe - one dose per day - UK manufacture
Features
- HELPS PETS WITH UPSET STOMACHS & LOOSE STOOLS FAST - PetExx Stomach Settler is a fast acting probiotic paste which works to clear diarrhoea and upset stomachs with one easy to administer dose per day for 3 days - give directly orally or add to food
- CONTAINS PROBIOTICS & PREBIOTICS - these aid digestion & help maintain a healthy mix of bacteria in the gut. E-Faecium helps normalise fecal inconsistency which means no more loose stools
- TOXIN REMOVING CLAY - Bentonite Montmorillonite is present to help remove nasty toxins from the body by attaching itself to positively charged toxins and parasites. Also aids reduction in bloating, constipation, vomiting and gas.
- GUT CELL REPLACEMENT - L-Glutamine helps replace the cells that line the intestinal tract which are often damaged during periods of diarrhoea and vomiting.
- CONTAINS ELECTROLYTES - these help keep your pet hydrated during periods of diarrhea
HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg
Features
- 1. THE NATURAL CHOICE - At Harringtons, we believe every dog deserves natural food that's balanced, wholesome and tasty. From puppies to seniors to special diets, we make a range that's perfect for you
- 2. RICH IN LAMB - Harringtons Lamb & Rice Dry Dog Food 15kg is a complete adult dog food that has been carefully formulated using all natural ingredients to provide wholesome nutrition for your dog
- 3. NO NASTIES - The #1 ingredient in our dry dog food is meat, for a nutritionally balanced meal. And we never use artificial colour and flavours or added wheat
- 4. CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT - As part of our efforts to keep packaging to a minimum and help send less packaging waste to landfill, this pack is 100% polyethylene and can be recycled
- 5. MADE IN THE UK – Harringtons dog food is proudly made by ourselves right here in the UK and has been family run since 1923
The particular best for the dog – according to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but most importantly, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which food is appropriate from which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and explain how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot tolerate and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their gastrointestinal system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. As a result, they want less energy, i. e. calories from fat. However , the dog food should be easy to process and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in conditions of composition, technique of creation and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals is different according to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the essential nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in pet shops and supermarkets usually comes from commercial production. This is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one pan is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. With a few exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to industrial food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover dissimilarities between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable elements have been processed. With the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. Whether it says “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per dollar organic ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are assembled individually, barfing is more ideal for experienced pet owners who have studied this diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is an assertion that needs to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These types of are supposed to provide the food a much better smell and preference. Some dog lovers also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is produced by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and combining them. A painting tool presses this mass through the openings of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other aspect. Throughout the dog food production process, temperature ranges of around 90 certifications Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold depressing. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of must be artificially added to the meals after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been broken down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food obviously, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food contains more natural elements. In case the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal tract and a disrupted digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – damp food or dried out food?
There is damp and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains very little water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and therefore teach their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can be considered a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are provided only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less expensive than cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- More environmentally friendly than processed food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for canines – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days. It should be used up within 2 days of opening. Below we have summarised the huge benefits and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful helpings
- Since of the high water content in wet food, the dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored very well
- Good sized dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. Your dog eventually chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try away both types.
A few dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much various meats and how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to that of predators. Thus to start with, the supply of meat is important. Yet , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
Above all, various meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meats to their four-legged friends, this can lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy herbal oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal contents of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw tend to be added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are normally found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these substances only moderately. Just how much should be in the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated oily acids. They are stored in the body as emergency ration and are meant as a hold for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 per cent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary nutritional supplements. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed fat improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy pores and skin.
How can I recognise top quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Name of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various assertions are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient types. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual raw materials, although not their percentage. The open declaration gives the structure in % and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word grain into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or source. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large volumes.
2. The ingredients in the give food to are listed in descending order relating to their quantity. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. Conversely, this implies: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down the list is within the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavor enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is detailed under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and animal by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Manufacturers often do not declare exactly what is involved. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish and its by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They can be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and level of acidity regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for example , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be within the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. It can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Occasionally the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give dogs the right amount of food. How much pet food a dog needs is determined by various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs continue to be growing and in many cases are more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It really is recommended to reduce the number of food a little annually. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When ever dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the subsequent rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about two to three % of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 per cent of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognize a food allergy or intolerance?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of the allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , mi nombre es, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A true food allergy or intolerance rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not exactly show up immediately after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. That they may also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to undertake an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special way to obtain protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend have not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following your food change, your dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergies. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to seek advice from a professional or speak with the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is essential during an different diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it needs a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often consists of grains. These include wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it contributes to obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, it contains option ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also well suited for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Several types of grain are also particularly easy to digest. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if the dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not way too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that canines can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog consumes raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or unwanted wind. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky computer virus, that causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pups should never eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw taters
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is recommended in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be placed in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet and also the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. In the mean time, keep your dog in a secure environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the street.
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially created for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Above all, the puppy food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions several times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends on the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are believed adults from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for older persons?
For small canines, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered mature at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to era, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be held in an foolproof container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should inform yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can quickly suffer from digestive problems, a number of which is often considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Within the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the adaptation phase and boost the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food in any way, it is obviously not suitable for him. In this case, you should look for an option.
What should I actually do if my dog does not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. If the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest dry food?
Dogs usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The quantity of food is important too. Tiny portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. In addition , the more liquefied the food is, the shortest the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out pet experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a listing of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When can I start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother continually nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it seems sensible to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a water until the puppy is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, mix in more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does it seem sensible?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it will incorporate some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Dog owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the meals to these and the dog’s flavor.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before planning the meals, you should study the different elements. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes recommended to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be eaten by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will occur.
Usually there is just one source of protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergic reactions. This kind of happens when there exists a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is suitable for four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
