In a previous post, we explored how feeding schedules can affect housebreaking a puppy. But did you know that feeding schedules can also influence your dog's sleep patterns? It's true! A dog's eating routine plays a significant role in its ability to rest, making it important for pet owners to pay attention to mealtime timing.
It might seem like your dog is always sleeping, and you're not wrong to think so. Dogs tend to need more sleep than humans, partly because they get less REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
While humans spend about 25% of their sleep in the REM stage, dogs only reach REM about 10% of the time. To make up for this, they need to sleep more often to achieve adequate rest.
Dogs thrive on routine. In the wild, their ancestors followed a consistent daily rhythm, which modern dogs have inherited. Feeding schedules play a crucial role in maintaining this rhythm and can influence your dog’s sleep quality in several ways:
The type of food you feed your dog also impacts how well they rest after meals. Digesting standard kibble can be harder on a dog’s system, particularly when they lie down shortly after eating.
Cold-pressed dog food, like Nextrition, is made with natural ingredients and pressed together at low temperatures into easily digestible pieces. This type of food supports smoother digestion and better nutritional absorption, reducing discomfort that could interfere with your dog’s sleep.
To help your dog get the best rest possible, consider these tips:
Like humans, dogs benefit from consistent routines that align with their natural circadian rhythms. By combining a healthy feeding schedule with a high-quality, easily digestible diet, you can help your dog sleep better, stay more active, and lead a healthier life.
If you're ready to optimize your dog's feeding and sleep habits, consider trying Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. It’s a delicious and gut-healthy option that promotes digestion and overall well-being.
Ensuring your puppy is fed healthy dog food is essential for their growth and overall well-being. However, there’s more to feeding than just nutrition. Did you know your puppy's feeding schedule can play a crucial role in housebreaking? Establishing a proper feeding routine can make the challenging process of house training much smoother.
One of the biggest hurdles in housebreaking is teaching puppies something that doesn’t come naturally. According to the American Humane Society (AHA), dogs instinctively avoid relieving themselves where they sleep. Beyond that, any location can feel appropriate to them.
For puppies, the connection between eating and needing to “go” is direct and immediate. They lack the bladder control and understanding to hold it until they're outside. Training them to wait and go outdoors becomes a top priority—and a consistent feeding schedule can help.
Feeding schedules have a direct impact on housebreaking because feeding equals elimination. Free feeding, where food is available all day, can lead to unpredictable elimination patterns, making housebreaking much more difficult.
A regular feeding schedule, on the other hand, helps regulate your puppy’s digestive system. This predictability allows you to anticipate when your puppy may need to go outside, giving you more control over housebreaking efforts.
Every puppy is unique, but there are best practices to help streamline the process of linking feeding to housebreaking:
The type of food you choose can also affect housebreaking. Whether it’s kibble, raw food, or cold-pressed dog food, a high-quality diet with natural ingredients supports a healthier digestive system. At Nextrition, we recommend cold-pressed dog food for its nutritional value, digestibility, and appealing flavor. Our food is formulated to be for all life-stages so you can start feeding it to your puppy and continue as they become more mature.
A healthy diet combined with a predictable schedule minimizes digestive upset, promotes regularity, and makes housebreaking easier for both you and your puppy.
Housebreaking your puppy requires patience and consistency, but a regular feeding schedule can make a big difference. By connecting meals with predictable elimination times, you give your puppy the structure needed to succeed.
Remember: eating equals elimination. If you pair a regular feeding routine with positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior, you’ll have your puppy housebroken in no time. For additional guidance or food recommendations, consult your veterinarian—they’re always a helpful resource!
Dogs will be dogs, right? Even if you go to great lengths to ensure your pet gets a gut-healthy dog food that is delicious and perfect for sensitive stomachs, you might still catch them sneaking food from the counter or trash. An occasional act of food thievery is normal, but when it becomes habitual, it’s time to address the issue.
Even with the best natural dog food on the menu, some dogs just can’t resist human food left on counters, tables, or the trash. Here’s the first thing to know: dogs are pack animals that naturally feed in a hierarchical structure. It’s instinctive for them to protect their food while also scrounging from other sources. So what you’re witnessing might just be natural behavior.
However, there could be other factors:
Before doing anything else, evaluate what and how frequently you’re feeding your dog. If you’re unsure, consult your vet for guidance.
Assuming your dog is eating enough and doesn’t have any nutritional deficiencies, it’s time to take control of the environment. Managing the surroundings reduces temptation and helps discourage food theft.
The goal here is to make stealing food more difficult and not worth the effort. While no method is 100% foolproof, reducing temptation goes a long way.
Training is critical for breaking bad habits like food thievery. Two of the most important commands to teach are “leave it” and “place”:
With both environmental management and training, consistency is critical. Dogs learn through repetition, so be clear, patient, and persistent. Avoid scolding your dog for stealing food after the fact, as they may not connect the punishment to the behavior. Instead, reward them for following commands and making the right choices.
A dog that’s consistently fed a nutritious, balanced diet is less likely to scavenge or steal food. High-quality food like Nextrition cold-pressed dog food offers:
By addressing both your dog’s dietary needs and training habits, you can curb their food-stealing ways while ensuring they stay healthy and satisfied.
With a little effort, consistency, and a healthy food routine, your dog can overcome their food thief habits—and maybe even become a mealtime angel.
Using food as a reward is a common method for training dogs. It works well most of the time. But sometimes, using food – even a healthy dog food made with natural ingredients – doesn’t work as expected. So is there a way to train without food?
One of the more popular non-food training methods is the model-rival (or mirror) method. This technique relies on observational learning rather than reward-based learning. Studies show that model-rival training can be just as effective as food rewards for many tasks.
Traditional food-based training, known as operant conditioning, uses rewards to reinforce desired behaviors. For example, a dog may receive a bite of Nextrition natural dog food after completing a task. While effective, there are cases when food rewards just aren’t enough to motivate certain dogs.
This is where model-rival training shines.
The method pairs two dogs:
The rival observes the model dog performing the task and eventually becomes motivated to imitate the behavior. Unlike operant conditioning, model-rival training doesn't rely on food rewards. Instead, the reward is intrinsic: a sense of satisfaction gained by learning the task and responding to a command.
In model-rival training, dogs learn through observation and mimicry rather than through direct reinforcement. This approach eliminates the need for rewards or punishments, which are often part of operant conditioning.
For some, this makes model-rival training a more humane way to modify behaviors. The dog observes and naturally learns by watching the actions of a peer or handler.
Model-rival training is especially effective for teaching more complex tasks, such as retrieval selection or identifying specific objects. Observational learning allows dogs to better understand the connection between actions, commands, and the satisfaction of completing the task successfully.
Interestingly, competition may also play a role. While dogs are naturally pack animals, there’s still a sense of hierarchy and competition within any group. Watching another dog successfully complete a task can motivate the rival dog to do the same.
Model-rival training doesn’t always require another dog. A human can act as the model, making this method practical for dog owners at home. Acting as the model allows you to strengthen the bond with your dog while teaching new behaviors.
At the end of the day, model-rival training is simply another option for teaching dogs. It isn’t necessarily better or worse than food-based methods. Every dog is different, and certain training methods can work better in specific situations.
If food-based training works for you and your dog, that’s great! But if your furry friend isn’t responding to food rewards, model-rival training might be worth a try.
Whether you choose food-based training or non-food methods, it’s important to keep your dog’s nutrition a top priority. Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is packed with natural ingredients, offering great flavor, high nutritional value, and a gentle option for sensitive stomachs.
If you use food as a training reward, Nextrition is an excellent choice. And if you prefer methods like model-rival training, rest easy knowing your dog is still getting the best nutrition at mealtime.
With Christmas just around the corner, holiday decorations are on everyone's mind. One décor item making a surprising resurgence is tinsel. While its shimmering allure might add extra holiday sparkle, tinsel is one of the most dangerous holiday decorations for dogs. If you plan to use it, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect your furry friend.
Tinsel was all the rage in the 1970s and 80s but gradually fell out of favor in the following decades. Fast-forward to today, and tinsel is back in vogue, giving Christmas trees that nostalgic glimmer. However, what makes tinsel so appealing to humans—its shiny, eye-catching design—is the very thing that can make it a hazard for pets.
Tinsel is typically made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of shiny plastic. While it may look harmless, ingesting tinsel can lead to serious health issues for your dog:
Avoiding these risks is as simple as keeping tinsel out of your dog’s reach—or avoiding it altogether.
Dogs are naturally curious. Tinsel’s glittering strands can catch their eye, tempting them to investigate. Like many items they explore, dogs often use their mouths to assess new objects. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads to swallowing items that should never be ingested.
If you love the sparkle of tinsel, there are ways to use it while minimizing risk to your dog. Here are some tips:
While your dog might be intrigued by holiday décor, their focus should remain on safe, nutritious food. Providing a high-quality diet—like Nextrition cold-pressed dog food—ensures they stay healthy and happy during the holiday season.
As tinsel makes its glittery comeback, remember to prioritize your pet’s safety. With a little planning and vigilance, you can ensure your dog enjoys the holidays without any unwanted mishaps.
At Nextrition, we’re all about healthy dog food and the belief that what we feed our dogs directly impacts their overall health and quality of life. With that in mind, we’re intrigued by questions about canine diets. One that comes up often is: are eggs safe for dogs to eat?
The answer is yes—eggs can be a healthy option for dogs. But as with any addition to a dog’s diet, there are a few caveats. Eggs can be a great supplement, but they shouldn’t replace a well-rounded and balanced diet.
Think of eggs as a dietary bonus for your dog, not the main event. While they’re packed with nutrients, they’re best served as occasional treats rather than forming the majority of your dog’s meals. Here’s why eggs can be beneficial for dogs:
However, there are some important guidelines to follow. Raw eggs are a no-go due to the risk of salmonella and the potential for biotin deficiency. Always cook eggs thoroughly before serving them to your dog. And skip the salt, butter, or other add-ons—plain is best.
If your dog hasn’t had eggs before, introduce them slowly and watch for any adverse reactions. Some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies that only become apparent after trying something new.
Treats like eggs are fine in moderation, but your dog’s daily meals should prioritize a balanced and nutritious diet. Just like us, a dog’s overall health—from energy levels to coat condition—is shaped by what they eat.
A healthy diet should include:
We recommend cold-pressed dog food made with natural ingredients. Unlike traditional kibble, cold-pressed dog food retains more of its nutritional value and flavor, making it a more satisfying and beneficial option for your dog. Nextrition’s formulas are designed with your dog’s health in mind—take a look at the ingredients and benefits on our website.
Providing a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your dog and many quality dog foods will already contain eggs. So go ahead and offer eggs as an occasional treat—they’re safe, nutritious, and your dog will likely love them. Just make sure they’re part of a bigger picture that includes a balanced diet, like Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food.
Eggs in moderation, paired with high-quality dog food, can make for a happy and healthy canine companion. And while your dog may not say “thank you” in words, their wagging tail and affectionate snuggles will let you know you’re doing it right.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mealtime can be a wild ride in some dog households. You know the type—dogs who gulp down every meal like it's their last. They dive into their food bowls with serious enthusiasm, leaving no kibble behind. Sure, gulping food might seem like bad behavior to some dog owners, but here’s the thing: it’s really not the end of the world.
Gulping food is actually part of a dog’s natural behavior. You can train your pup to slow down if you want to, but even the most well-trained dogs can have their moments. Your dog might take his time for weeks, only to suddenly decide to inhale his food one day.
Gulping food doesn’t have much to do with the food itself. You could serve your dog the best gut-healthy dog food on the market, and he might still gulp it down if that’s his usual way of eating. Whether it’s natural dog food, name-brand kibble, or even gourmet wet food, the behavior could persist.
So, why do some dogs gulp rather than eat slowly? Here are a few reasons:
There may not be a way to pinpoint exactly why your dog gulps his food. But remember, you can usually train your dog to slow down through exercises that promote patience and calmness.
In the wild, dogs face a lot more challenges than just how fast they eat. But domesticated dogs live a very different life, and food gulping can sometimes cause some health problems. That’s why if you notice any health issues you may want to train your dog to slow down or buy a slow feeder to force them to slow down.
Food gulping can lead to:
One of the most common issues with dogs that gulp their food is stomach upset, which can lead to vomiting. A little vomit here and there isn’t a big deal, but if it happens often, especially right after eating, it might be time to take a closer look.
Whether your dog gulps or not, make sure you’re feeding them a healthy diet. If you’re worried about gulping, training is a good option or finding a slow feeder bowl that forces a longer mealtime.
Nextrition is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Our cold-pressed dog food is gut-healthy, avoids common allergens, and is packed with flavor and nutritional value. It’s even a hit with picky eaters. Give it a try and see the difference.
Dogs are fascinating little furballs, aren't they? Especially when it comes to their quirky food habits. Let's take Sparky, for instance – he's the kind of dog who seems to have an insatiable craving for the cat's food. Forget his own bowl, he's all about that feline feast. But what's really going on here?
Yep, these are the burning questions we ponder here at Nextrition. Dog food is our jam. We want our furry friends to be stoked about our cold-pressed dog food, not just munching on it because it's the only option.
So why does Sparky ditch his food for the cat's chow? Let's dive into a few possibilities:
First off, taste buds. Dogs have 'em, and they have preferences. This is why we're so loud about our cold-pressed dog food at Nextrition. We use low temps and lots of pressure to lock in both nutrition and flavor. We want our food to look good and taste even better. But Sparky? Maybe he's just not feeling his yawn-worthy kibble.
Cats are carnivores while dogs are omnivores, meaning that cats need a larger helping of animal protein in their diet and like a freshly grilled steak, meat and fat is an explosion of flavor! Sparky might've snagged a bite and thought, "Wow, this is way better than my usual grub."
Dogs are curious critters, especially when they're pups. Sparky might just be food aggressive and intrigued by the novelty of the cat's food. It's different, it's exciting, and who doesn't love a little culinary adventure?
Here's the tough pill to swallow: Sparky might be turning his nose up at his own food because it's not fully satiating his dietary desires for nutrients. Dogs need a variety of proteins, minerals and essential amino acids to stay healthy. Sometimes, homemade meals or lower quality food doesn’t consistently hit the nutritional mark. Sparky's body knows what it needs, and it might be telling him to chow down on the cat's higher-protein food, grass, or other items to seek additional nutrients.
So, if Sparky's made a habit of raiding the cat's bowl, it's probably best to break that cycle. Sure, cat food has more protein, but it isn’t formulated with all the nutrients that dogs need. Cat food is designed for cats, not dogs – plain and simple.
So how do you put an end to Sparky's cat food obsession? One trick is to feed Sparky and the cat in separate rooms. Out of sight, out of mind, right? This works best if you have a set feeding schedule instead of just leaving food out all day.
Got other ideas? Hit up your vet for more tips. Just remember, if Sparky's into the cat's food, it's a sign that his own diet might need an upgrade. Nextrition dog food is balanced and delicious – it might be just what Sparky needs to stay out of the cat's food and get excited about his own meals again.
So, let Sparky be Sparky, but let's also make sure he's getting the best nutrition possible. After all, a healthy dog is a happy dog, and that's what we're all about here at Nextrition.
