Most veterinarians recommend sticking to a feeding schedule for dogs. While free-choice feeding can work in specific situations, it’s usually not the best approach. That said, even scheduled feedings can come with challenges—especially if your dog gets distracted during meals.
Dogs can get sidetracked whether they’re eating dry kibble, cold-pressed food, or raw ingredients. The type of food usually isn’t the issue. So, what’s causing the distractions, and how can you help your dog stay focused at mealtime?
The first step in reducing mealtime distractions is to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Whether you’re feeding Nextrition cold-pressed dog food or another option, consistency is key to keeping your dog focused.
Vets typically recommend feeding adult dogs twice a day, spaced about 12 hours apart. If your schedule only allows for 10-11 hours between feedings, that’s fine—just try to be as consistent as possible. Sticking to a routine helps your dog associate certain times with food, making them more likely to focus at mealtime.
A helpful tip: if your dog doesn’t finish their food within 15-20 minutes, remove the bowl. This teaches them that food is available only for a limited time, encouraging them to eat when it’s offered instead of wandering off.
Some dogs get distracted by their surroundings. If you think your dog’s environment might be the issue, try setting up a designated eating space away from high-traffic areas. Keep them separated from other pets and young children during meals to reduce competition and interruptions.
If noises from outside seem to pull your dog’s attention, consider feeding them in an interior room where sounds are muffled. Using the same feeding space every day helps your dog get into a rhythm—they’ll start to understand that when they’re in that space, it’s time to eat.
While a consistent routine and designated space may solve the issue for some dogs, others might need a little extra help through training. If your dog continues to struggle with distractions, try these training techniques:
Every dog is different, so feel free to experiment with other training methods that work best for your pet. If you’re not sure where to start, your vet may have specific tips based on your dog’s behavior and personality.
At Nextrition, our goal is to create a nutritious, flavorful cold-pressed dog food that dogs want to eat. A healthy, appealing food can make all the difference—especially for picky eaters or dogs who tend to get distracted at mealtime.
If distractions are still a problem, it might help to try a food that’s easy on your dog’s stomach and packed with flavors they love. Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is designed to be both nutritious and appetizing, giving your dog more reasons to stay focused when it’s time to eat. Plus, Nextrition cold-pressed dog food is more nutrient dense than traditional kibble so you can feed up to 30% less meaning they will take 30% fewer bites to get the same number of nutrients.
With the right combination of routine, environment, and training, most dogs will learn to focus during meals. And with a food like Nextrition that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, you can feel confident that every meal is supporting your dog’s health and happiness.
One of the perks of making healthy dog food is that we get to answer some interesting questions from dog owners. One question we hear a lot is: “Is there a best time of day to feed my dog?” The answer is both yes and no. We’re not trying to dodge the question—there’s just a little nuance to it. Let us explain.
Yes, there is a “best” time in the sense that you should pick a feeding schedule and stick with it. But no, there’s no universal rule that says all dogs need to eat at 8:00 am sharp. The best time to feed your dog depends on their routine and needs. Once you figure out what works, consistency is key.
Let’s talk about feeding schedules. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines—if your dog has unique health concerns, your vet can help you develop the right plan.
Most vets recommend feeding adult dogs twice a day, ideally spaced about 12 hours apart. For example, if you feed your dog at 6:00 am before heading to work, aim for the second meal around 6:00 pm.
You don’t need to be precise down to the minute. Life happens, and it’s okay if feedings are off by an hour or so. What matters more than exact timing is sticking to a consistent routine.
Feeding twice a day helps maintain dietary stability. It can also prevent issues like nausea, bloating, or your dog scarfing down food too quickly because they’ve gone too long without eating.
While two meals a day works for adult dogs, puppies need to eat more frequently—just like human babies do. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Try to space meals evenly to keep your puppy’s digestion stable. For example, if you’re feeding four times a day, aim for every 4 hours during the day, with a break for sleep at night.
The same goes for senior dogs, nursing mothers, and highly active dogs—they may need more frequent feedings too. If you’re unsure, your vet can recommend the best schedule based on your dog’s needs.
Some dog owners leave food out all the time, a practice known as free-choice feeding. While it works for some dogs, veterinarians generally recommend avoiding this method. Leaving food out all the time can encourage overeating, which can lead to weight gain and health problems over time.
If your dog prefers to graze throughout the day, try portioning out their food and offering it at set times. This way, you can maintain control over their intake while still giving them flexibility.
Feeding your dog isn’t just about keeping their belly full. It’s also about making sure they’re getting the right nutrition on a reliable schedule that works for both of you. Choosing a healthy, easily digestible food—like Nextrition—is one way to support your dog’s well-being.
Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is packed with natural ingredients that promote good gut health, and it’s designed to be appealing even for picky eaters. When you combine a consistent feeding schedule with nutritious food, you’re giving your dog the best chance to stay healthy, happy, and energized.
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the “best time to feed your dog.” But with a bit of trial and error—and some help from your vet—you'll be able to find a schedule that works for your furry friend. Stick to that routine, and pair it with a quality food like Nextrition, and you’ll be on the right track to keeping your dog in great shape.
At Nextrition, one of the things we love to highlight is how well our cold-pressed dog food supports healthy digestion. It's a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and it works wonders for picky eaters too. Why? Because cold pressing creates food that works with your dog’s digestive system—not against it
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Before we dive into the digestion benefits, let’s cover the basics of cold pressing. Cold-pressed dog food starts with natural, high-quality ingredients chosen to meet a dog’s nutritional needs. These ingredients are mixed and then pressed together without high heat or steam for a few seconds using our patent pending process.
The pressing process helps preserve the natural flavors, nutrients, live probiotics and enzymes that would normally be lost in high-temperature cooking.
One of the biggest digestion benefits of cold-pressed dog food is how it breaks down in the stomach. Rather than swelling inside the stomach, like traditional kibble sometimes does, cold-pressed food breaks down gradually from the outside in.
Because it doesn’t expand in the stomach, it’s less likely to cause bloating—making it a great choice for dogs with digestive issues. Mealtime becomes a more comfortable experience for your dog, reducing the risk of post-meal discomfort and helping them feel fuller longer.
Here are some of the key ways cold-pressed food supports digestion:
Just like humans, dogs digest natural, minimally processed ingredients more efficiently. That’s exactly what cold-pressed dog food offers.
When your dog’s food is easy to digest, it benefits more than just the digestive system—it promotes overall health. You’ve probably heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” Well, the same goes for dogs.
A dog’s health depends not just on what they eat, but on how well their body absorbs nutrients from that food. If their digestive system struggles, even the healthiest food won’t provide the nutrition they need.
Cold-pressed food offers higher nutritional value per cup compared to traditional kibble. And since it’s more digestible, those nutrients are absorbed more effectively. The result? Less digestive discomfort, healthier stools, and better access to the building blocks needed for long-term health.
We know you have plenty of options when choosing what to feed your dog. Between dry kibble, wet food, raw diets, and everything in between, it can feel overwhelming. But we encourage you to consider giving cold-pressed dog food a try.
With Nextrition, you get the best of both worlds. Our food offers the high nutritional value of a raw diet with the convenience of dry kibble. And because it’s easier to digest, it’s a perfect fit for dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eating habits.
So why not give your dog a food that works with their digestion, not against it? We believe Nextrition will make mealtime enjoyable again—while giving your dog the nutrition they need to thrive.
We may not think about dogs being overweight—it’s more of a human problem, right? After all, animals in the wild seem to manage their weight just fine. But domesticated pets? That’s a different story. Dogs can definitely be overweight—but it’s not inevitable. That’s one of the reasons we’re so passionate about creating healthy dog food like Nextrition.
In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 50% of domesticated dogs in North America are overweight. If your dog is carrying around 10-20% more than their ideal weight, they’re considered overweight. Anything above 20%? That’s considered obese.
Why It Matters
Feeding your dog a healthy diet in the right portions is one of the most important ways you can help them maintain a healthy weight. But does it really matter if your dog carries a little extra weight? Absolutely. Just like with people, being overweight can cause serious health problems in dogs—starting with heart disease.
Excess weight adds stress to your dog’s cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart disease. It can also lead to high blood pressure (hypertension), which makes the heart work harder than it should.
Some other health issues linked to excess weight in dogs include:
While there’s no concrete proof that obesity causes cancer, studies show that overweight dogs are more likely to develop certain types of cancer.
On top of all that, excess weight affects your dog’s quality of life. We all want our pets to live happy, healthy lives—so keeping their weight in check is a simple way to help them thrive.
What You Can Do to Help Your Dog
If you suspect your dog is overweight, the first step is to schedule a vet appointment. Your vet can assess your dog’s health and let you know if they need to shed some pounds. If your dog does need to slim down, here’s how you can help:
Once your dog reaches a healthy weight, it’s important to stick to good habits. Avoid falling back into old routines that may have contributed to weight gain. A consistent, healthy lifestyle will help your dog maintain their ideal weight for the long haul.
The Nextrition Difference
Nextrition cold-pressed dog food is an excellent choice for most dogs. Our natural, nutrient-dense formula is easy on the stomach and packed with the nutrition your dog needs to stay healthy and active. Plus, it’s designed with optimal gut health in mind—perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes.
Have questions about Nextrition? We’d love to help. Reach out anytime to learn more about how our food can support your dog’s health and well-being.
At Nextrition, we often mention that our cold-pressed dog food is gentler on the stomach and less likely to cause bloating. But it’s important to point out that what we refer to as “bloating” is discomfort caused by kibble swelling inside the stomach it isn’t necessarily the same as bloat—a serious medical condition that can be dangerous for dogs.
Bloat happens when food, gas, or both cause a dog’s stomach to expand beyond its capacity—a condition known as distension. While mild cases can cause discomfort, more severe cases can become life-threatening, especially if left untreated.
If your dog struggles with a sensitive stomach, choosing the right food is essential. Some dogs may not do well with traditional kibble as it floats and swells inside the stomach before breaking down where cold-pressed dog food sinks and breaks down quickly which us usually a gentler option. If you suspect your dog is prone to bloat, it’s always a good idea to discuss food options with your vet and consider a switch to cold-pressed dog food.
What You Need to Know About Bloat
Bloat occurs when food or gas builds up in the stomach, stretching it and causing abdominal pain. While any dog can experience bloat, it’s more common in larger breeds or dogs with deep chests. However, no breed is completely immune.
As the stomach expands, blood flow to the stomach and abdominal area is reduced. If the condition worsens, it can affect other organs, putting additional stress on the body.
In extreme cases, bloat can interfere with breathing by placing pressure on the diaphragm. The most serious complication, gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow to the lower body and trapping food and gas inside. GDV is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.
Signs of Bloat in Dogs
Bloat is painful, and your dog will likely show clear signs of discomfort. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
Other signs include excessive drooling, panting, pale gums, a rapid heartbeat, or collapse. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your dog to a vet right away. Early treatment is critical to preventing serious complications.
Preventing Bloat in Dogs
If your dog has experienced bloat or is prone to it, your vet may recommend changes to their diet and feeding habits. Eating too quickly, drinking too much water before or after meals, or exercising right after eating can all increase the risk of bloat. Feeding smaller meals throughout the day or using slow-feeder bowls may help.
Another important factor is the type of food you give your dog. Some foods are harder to digest and can lead to gas buildup in the stomach. That’s where cold-pressed dog food comes in.
Why Nextrition Might Be a Good Fit
Nextrition cold-pressed dog food is designed to be easier on the stomach and more digestible. Our food retains more of its natural nutrients thanks to the cold-pressing process, offering better nutritional value without the harsh processing of traditional kibble. If your dog struggles with bloat or digestive issues, switching to a gentle, gut-healthy food like Nextrition could make a difference.
While no dog food can guarantee prevention of bloat, feeding your pet the right kind of food is an important step toward better digestive health. As always, consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.
If your dog fits the “picky eater” label, you know just how frustrating mealtime can be. Maybe your dog refuses to eat anything from his bowl and holds out for table scraps—or nothing at all. We get it. But we’d like to suggest an alternative: cold-pressed dog food.
At Nextrition, we’ve designed a dry dog food that better retains both natural flavor and nutrients than traditional kibble. If your dog isn’t a fan of traditional kibble and a raw or fresh diet just isn’t realistic, cold-pressed food might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Cold-pressed dog food is cooked at lower temperatures compared to regular kibble. This keeps more of the food’s natural flavors intact—plus, it smells better too. And we all know how much scent matters to dogs.
Think about when you smell your favorite meal cooking—it makes you look forward to eating, right? Dogs are no different. The rich aromas of cold-pressed dog food can tempt even the fussiest eater to dig in.
Because cold-pressed dog food is made by pressing natural ingredients into small bite-sized pieces, every bite is packed with flavor. And with no fillers to dilute the taste, dogs get a richer, meatier experience.
You could think of cold-pressed food as the next best thing to a raw diet—but without the hassle. A raw diet can be great, but it’s not always practical. Cold-pressed dog food delivers similar nutritional benefits and flavors in a shelf-stable convenient form that’s as easy as kibble.
Another reason picky eaters might prefer cold-pressed dog food is that the natural nutrients from the ingredients are left intact. Since the food isn’t cooked at high temperatures or heavily processed, these nutrients remain. That extra layer of nutrition can make all the difference.
Unlike traditional kibble, cold-pressed dog food doesn’t rely on fillers or bulking agents. This means every bite is packed with more nutrients—like protein, vitamins, and minerals. Even though your dog may not consciously recognize the added nutrition, they’ll likely enjoy the difference in flavor and texture.
We can’t promise that cold-pressed dog food will work for every picky eater—some dogs are selective for reasons that go beyond food preferences. But for many dogs, a more flavorful and natural option makes a noticeable difference at mealtime.
If your dog tends to turn up their nose at food, why not give cold-pressed dog food a shot? It offers rich flavor, enticing aromas, and high nutritional value—all in a format that’s just as easy to serve as dry kibble.
Cold-pressed food might be the solution you’ve been searching for. With no fillers, natural nutrients, and more flavor, it just might turn your picky eater into a happy eater. Give it a try and see if it makes a difference in your dog’s mealtime routine.
As producers of high-quality, cold-pressed dog food, we get all sorts of questions from dog owners. One thing we hear from new customers time to time is: “My dog wasn’t happy with her dry kibble so I tried to add water.”
Adding water to kibble has been a go-to solution for generations. The thinking is that if your dog doesn’t like the dry, crunchy texture—or maybe finds the flavor lacking—water could fix the problem. But does it really?
To know for sure, you’d have to be able to read your dog’s mind! That said, adding water to kibble does have its pros and cons. But we think there’s an even better option. If your dog is turning her nose up at kibble and your vet has ruled out any health issues, you might want to consider switching to natural, cold-pressed dog food. We’ll explain why later in this post.
The Pros of Adding Water
Let’s start with the good news: there are some positive aspects to adding water to kibble. If any of these help your dog get back to their regular eating habits, consider it a win.
If nothing else, adding water to kibble can help improve your dog’s hydration as most dogs don’t drink as much as they probably should. Getting extra water into their system is never a bad thing, especially if your dog doesn’t drink enough on their own. In fact, some vets recommend adding water to kibble for dogs who struggle to stay hydrated.
If your dog’s resistance to kibble is due to the texture, water might help. Kibble is a hard crunchy food but when soaked in water it will bloat and soften up. The longer you leave it soaking the bigger and softer the pieces get and could get a point where your pup doesn’t like that texture either.
For older dogs or dogs with dental issues, dry kibble can be tough to chew. Adding water softens the food, making it easier on their teeth and gums.
The Cons of Adding Water
Of course, for every pro, there’s usually a con. Here are some potential downsides to adding water to kibble:
When you add water to kibble, you’re creating an environment that’s more susceptible to bacterial growth. If your dog finishes her meal in one sitting, it’s no problem. But if wet kibble sits in the bowl for even a few hours, it could become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Some vets recommend dry kibble for its ability to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Chewing on something hard is also great for keeping healthy dental roots. If that’s true, then wet kibble might not be as beneficial for dental health. Since wet food requires less chewing or resistance when chewing, your dog might not get the same plaque-scraping or overall dental health benefits.
Let’s face it—adding water to kibble can create a mess. If your dog doesn’t finish her meal, you’re left with a soggy bowl of food to clean up.
A Better Option: Cold-Pressed Dog Food
Instead of adding water to kibble, why not consider switching to cold-pressed dog food? Cold-pressed dog food packs more nutrition into every bite, thanks to the way it’s processed. It also offers more flavor and better odors, which can help with picky eaters.
If your dog has no underlying health issues and just isn’t a fan of kibble, she might simply be picky. Nextrition cold-pressed dog food could be exactly what your dog needs. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and a great option for dogs who are turning up their noses at traditional kibble while just as convenient!
If you’re a parent of a picky eater, you know how tricky it can be to make sure your child is getting the right nutrition. Well, pet parents face the same challenge. Just like us, dogs can be picky eaters, too.
But being a picky eater doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on good nutrition, or that they’re destined to eat junk food for life. However, picky eaters do need a little extra attention from their owners when it comes to choosing the right food.
In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of picky eating in dogs. And if your dog happens to be one of those finicky eaters, consider trying Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. It’s a great option for many picky eaters and ensures your dog is getting the nutrition they need without compromising on taste.
Picky Eating or Health Problem?
If your dog has been a picky eater from day one, it can be easier to manage once you figure out what works for them. But things get trickier if your dog develops picky eating habits later in life. Imagine having a 5-year-old dog that’s always been a good eater, and suddenly, they start turning their nose up at food.
Here’s the million-dollar question: is your dog just being picky, or is there an underlying health issue to worry about? This can be a tough call for dog owners when their dog’s eating habits change.
Here are a few signs your dog might be a picky eater:
If you suspect that your dog’s sudden pickiness might be related to a health issue, it’s always best to consult with your vet. Some health conditions can show up as picky eating, so it’s worth getting your furry friend checked out.
Why Some Dogs Get Picky
Now you’re probably wondering why some dogs become picky eaters later in life. Health issues are always the first thing to rule out. If a dog associates certain foods with discomfort due to a health condition, they may start avoiding those foods.
If it’s not a health issue, there are a few other factors to consider:
There’s no one-size-fits-all reason for why a dog might suddenly become a picky eater. That’s why it’s a good idea to talk to your vet if you’re unsure. And in the meantime, try switching to a dry dog food designed for picky eaters, like Nextrition. If it doesn’t do the trick, your vet can offer advice on how to address the issue and get your dog back on track.
At Nextrition, we’re big on talking about canine gut health. In fact, we believe our natural dog food is one of the best out there for supporting a healthy gut. It all comes down to understanding the canine gut microbiome and knowing which foods are good for it.
You might already be familiar with gut health when it comes to humans. You know that when your own gut is in balance, your overall health tends to improve. The same could be even more true for dogs. With 70% of the dog’s immune system found in the gut a healthy gut often leads to better overall health, which is why we’ve designed a gut-healthy dog food with that in mind.
Just like there are foods that can support your dog’s gut, there are also foods that aren’t so great. Knowing the difference is key to helping your dog live a healthier, happier life.
A Community of Microorganisms
Think of the canine gut microbiome as a tiny community of microorganisms all working together toward the same goal. Most of these microorganisms are bacteria, and they live in your dog’s gastrointestinal system. When they’re in balance, your dog’s gut is healthy.
A balanced microbiome includes:
That last point—stability—is important, and it can change throughout a dog’s life. Everything from age to environment to what your dog eats can impact gut stability. While you can’t change your dog’s age, you can control what they eat and somewhat manage their environment.
Foods That Promote Good Gut Health
Years of research have shown that certain types of food are especially beneficial for your dog’s gut health. These are the types of ingredients we focus on when developing Nextrition recipes. If you compare the list of gut-friendly foods below to our ingredients, you’ll find plenty of overlap.
Some of the best foods for supporting dog gut health include:
Both prebiotics and probiotics also play a big role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Prebiotics nourish the good bacteria in your dog’s gut and can be found in foods like pumpkin. Probiotics, on the other hand, are live bacteria that support digestion, and they can be found in certain foods and supplements.
Why Gut Health Matters
So, why should you focus on your dog’s gut health? We could just say it helps promote overall health, but let’s dig a little deeper. Good gut health:
The gut is home to the majority of your dog’s immune system, so keeping it healthy has a ripple effect on their overall well-being.
At Nextrition, we’re here to help you support your dog’s gut health with high-quality, nutritious dog food. If you’re concerned about your dog’s gut health, we invite you to give Nextrition a try and see the difference it can make.
So, you’ve made the switch from traditional kibble to cold-pressed dog food—great choice! Now, the question is: what kind of bowl will you use to feed your dog? We’re not here to tell you to avoid plastic at all costs. Some people might say that, but our advice is to think it through and be cautious.
Plastic has plenty of good qualities that make it ideal for a lot of things. However, there are also some known risks associated with it, specifically when it comes to using it as a food bowl. Ultimately, that decision is up to you. If you’re concerned, glass and metal are great alternatives.
Plastic's Potential Hazards
There’s been a lot of buzz around plastic lately, with some people ready to declare it public enemy number one. While some of the claims are overblown, there are real concerns you should be aware of. One of the big ones is a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA), which is found in many commercial plastics. At high levels, BPA has been linked to cancer, infertility, and other health issues.
The FDA says that BPA isn’t a safety risk in small amounts, but what counts as “small” is up for debate. We just don’t know enough about BPA to say for sure how much is too much.
Beyond BPA, there are other chemicals in plastic that could have long-term health effects on both humans and animals. We mention this not to scare you, but to remind you that the risk is there. How serious is it? That’s hard to say. If you’re worried, switching to a metal or glass bowl might be the way to go.
Known Plastic Hazards
While the potential chemical risks of plastic are still being studied, there are some hazards we know for sure. One of the big ones is the risk of choking.
Plastic bowls can be or become brittle. They’re not as sturdy as metal or glass, which means there’s always a chance a piece could break off, especially with dogs who like to chew or are a bit rough with their bowls. A broken piece of plastic could be a choking hazard or cause issues in your dog’s digestive system.
Here are a few other known risks with plastic bowls:
The debate over plastic dog food bowls has been going on for years, and there are valid arguments on both sides. In the end, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your dog.
Here’s our suggestion: since you’ve already made the switch to Nextrition cold-pressed dog food, why not go the extra mile and treat your pup to a new bowl? A sturdy metal or glass bowl could be the perfect upgrade to go along with the healthier food you’re feeding them.
At Nextrition, we’re confident in calling our cold-pressed dog food a healthy option for your pup. But it’s not just the cold-pressing process that makes our food healthy. Cold pressing alone doesn’t guarantee a healthy outcome.
So, what actually makes dog food healthy? And more importantly, how can you tell if the food you’re giving your dog is the right choice?
We believe that a healthy dog food meets all of your dog’s nutritional needs while avoiding ingredients and processes that aren’t great for canine health. And let’s be honest—your dog has to actually want to eat it for it to do any good, so taste matters too!
Ingredients Are Key
We often say, “you are what you eat,” and that applies to dogs as well. If we feed ourselves junk, we’ll pay for it with our health later on. The same goes for our furry friends. To keep your dog healthy, you’ve got to focus on giving them the right nutrition, and that starts with quality ingredients.
Ingredients are the building blocks your dog’s body uses to stay healthy. To make a truly healthy dog food, manufacturers need to use high-quality, natural ingredients with minimal processing.
Just like humans, dogs need the right balance of meat, fruits, and vegetables. They depend on their food to provide a solid mix of vitamins and minerals. That’s why good ingredients are so important. Start with the right balance of great ingredients, and you’re well on your way to making healthy dog food. But if you start with poor-quality ingredients, it’s hard to end up with a healthy result.
Processing Matters Too
Even the best ingredients won’t do much good if the manufacturing process strips away their natural nutritional value. Unfortunately, that’s what happens with traditional kibble. It’s cooked at extremely high temperatures, which kills off bacteria and germs but also destroys a lot of the food’s nutrients.
Cold pressing, on the other hand, uses much lower temperatures. It takes natural ingredients and press them together with low heat and no steam, preserving more of the food’s nutritional value and flavor. By keeping more of those essential nutrients intact, cold pressing helps create a healthier dog food.
Two Important Things to Keep in Mind
We’ve given you a general idea of what makes a healthy dog food, but here are two key things to keep in mind:
A Final Word
At the end of the day, healthy dog food is about more than what’s written on the label. At Nextrition, we do our best to provide clear, detailed labels, but we also encourage dog owners to do their own research and talk to their vets. While cold-pressed dog food is generally a healthier option, cold pressing alone isn’t a guarantee. It’s all about the right combination of ingredients, process, and a food that your dog will happily and safely eat.
As dog owners, we all want to give our pets the best—especially when it comes to food. But sometimes, even the best feeding habits slip during the holiday season. It’s easy to want to spoil your furry friend with special treats when everyone’s indulging. While that’s not necessarily a bad thing, it’s important to be mindful of the holiday foods that aren’t so great for your dog.
If you’re a dog owner, we encourage moderation when offering those special treats. And remember, some human foods can actually harm your dog. A better way to treat your pet? Grab a bag of Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. It’s gut-healthy, all-natural, and perfect for sensitive stomachs.
Just Say No to Turkey Scraps
Turkey often takes center stage at Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, and while the meat itself isn’t typically an issue, avoid giving your dog turkey scraps like bones, skin, and gravy. Bones can be a choking hazard or cause internal injuries. Turkey skin is high in fat which can lead to pancreatitis and can be difficult to chew leading to choking hazards. Turkey gravy should also be avoided due to the additional spices put in most gravies that can be toxic for dogs.
If you do offer your pup some turkey meat, make sure it’s in moderation, remove any spices, and carefully check for bones before feeding.
Be Careful with Stuffing and Mashed Potatoes
Mom’s homemade stuffing might be delicious, but if it contains onions or garlic, it’s a no-go for dogs. Both can be toxic to your furry friend, so it’s best to avoid sharing this dish altogether.
As for mashed potatoes made for humans, these are often loaded with fat, butter, and dairy—all of which can upset your dog’s stomach. Keep these off your dog’s plate too.
Be Extra Cautious with Desserts
The holiday season is prime time for showing off your best dessert recipes. But many of these rich treats are risky for dogs. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, be mindful of sweets like pies, cakes, cookies, and candies around your dog.
Chocolate and raisins, for example, are highly toxic to dogs. So, no chocolate candies or grandma’s famous fruitcake. Also, watch out for artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be deadly for dogs. Any holiday treats containing xylitol should be kept far away from your pet.
Never Give Your Dog Alcohol
Alcohol is another thing that’s a definite no for dogs. Even a small amount can cause serious health issues. Dogs aren’t natural drinkers for good reason—keep the alcohol away from them.
Plenty of Safe Alternatives
It’s natural to want to include your dog in the holiday festivities, and there’s nothing wrong with giving them a few special treats—as long as it’s done safely. There are plenty of great alternatives to those not-so-safe holiday foods:
And as always, moderation is key. Too much of a good thing, even during the holidays, isn’t ideal.
If you want to keep treating your dog long after the holiday season, why not switch to Nextrition cold-pressed dog food? We’re pretty confident your dog will love it more than dry kibble. And if you’ve got a picky eater, Nextrition might be just what you need to get them back to eating normally.
