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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When you hear the words "excess weight," what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For most of us, it’s probably a few extra pounds around the belly and the impact that has on our health and appearance. We often think about it in terms of human health, but what about our dogs?
More importantly, is there a connection between excess weight, a long life, and the food you feed your dog? Stick around, and by the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of how these are connected and why a healthy, cold-pressed dog food might be just what your furry friend needs.
Over the last few decades, we’ve become much more aware of how bad excess weight is for human health. But guess what? Carrying extra weight is just as bad for dogs as it is for us.
Studies have shown that even being moderately overweight can shave up to 2.5 years off your dog’s life. And when you consider that a 12-year-old large-breed dog is roughly equivalent to a 77-year-old human, losing more than two years is a big deal.
Excess weight in dogs has been linked to:
Just like with humans, high blood pressure and heart disease are two major concerns when it comes to excess weight in dogs. Both conditions can seriously cut down on your dog’s lifespan. This brings us to the benefits of cold-pressed dog food.
We’ve all heard the saying, "you are what you eat." Well, it applies to dogs, too. And just like with humans, how much they eat matters. Overeating is a leading cause of excess weight, and eating too much of the wrong kinds of food only makes things worse.
We’re not here to say that kibble is bad across the board. But the way kibble is made—through high-temperature cooking—can strip away a lot of the natural nutrients. That means that kibble companies are sometimes adding more nutrients after it has been cooked.
Cold-pressed dog food is different. It’s not exposed to the high heat that kibble is, so it retains more of its natural nutrients. It is also more nutrient dense than kibble, this means you can feed your dog less while still giving them everything they need. How much less? It depends on their current diet, but some dogs can be fed up to 30% less food.
We’re not saying kibble is unhealthy, but we will say that cold-pressed dog food is designed to be a healthier option. We carefully select ingredients that are optimal for canine health, combine them in the right proportions, and press them into crunchy pieces—all without the need for fillers or unnecessary additives.
The biggest factor to maintaining a healthy weight is controlling the number of calories being fed to your pup but not all calories are created equal. If the calories that are being fed are from less healthy ingredients, it can still shorten the lifespan of your pup. With Nextrition cold-pressed dog food, your dog gets top-notch nutrition which if fed the proper amount will support better overall health.
Excess weight isn’t good for dogs. It can shorten their lifespan by years, and that’s a lot of time lost. If you’re concerned about your current dog food and its impact on your dog’s weight, maybe it’s time to switch to a cold-pressed brand like Nextrition.
We love dogs here at Nextrition. They aren't just pets; they are part of the family. That's why we put so much time and effort into producing our healthy dog food based on cold-pressed processing. But we know there are other things dog owners can do to ensure optimal health for their pets. For instance, introducing dental chews is good for a dog's teeth.
There has been plenty of discussion over the years about how different types of food affect canine dental health. Experts have discussed the moisture content in wet food, the abrasive nature of kibble, and even the impacts of dental chews. The three best things any pet owner can do for the dental health of his furry companion are:
Nextrition cold-pressed food is crunchy, shelf-stable food, packed with natural nutrients and flavors. We provide recipes that avoid the most common allergies, it is all natural, good for the gut, and an ideal choice as a dry dog food for picky eaters. A healthy set of teeth needs some resistance, if they only eat soft foods their teeth will become weak and may eventually fall out. This is why crunchy food or something hard to chew on is critical for maintaining healthy teeth.
Just like humans, regularly brushing teeth is an important step for maintaining dental health and preventing plaque and tarter build up. There are some dental chews that can help fight both plaque and tarter build up but should be used in addition to brushing teeth, not a replacement.
Look for dental chews that are abrasive by nature to help scrap the plaque off the teeth. It is even better if you can find a chew that isn’t consumed immediately but can last a couple of days. Between the two properties, dental chews can help scrape plaque off the teeth before it hardens into tartar. That is good for dental health.
Of course, regular brushing seals the deal. Look for a toothpaste that is designed to be safe for dogs as your pup will almost always consume the toothpaste while getting their teeth brushed. Combining dental chews with regular brushing can keep your canine companions' teeth in top shape.
Dealing with plaque and tartar is the main reason for giving your dog dental chews. But let's go one step further. Regular access to chews offers a couple of other benefits:
Dental chews are not merely the result of good marketing – they really can make a difference. Like our cold-pressed dog food, dental chews can improve your dog's oral health.
Before introducing a new dental chew, it’s always a good idea to talk to your veterinarian. Here’s why:
First, you want to choose a product that’s right for your dog’s size and chewing habits. A dental chew that’s too hard could damage your dog’s teeth, while one that’s too soft might not offer enough benefits.
Second, look for dental chews that are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. These products have been proven to work, and your vet can likely recommend a few good options for your dog.
We hope you’re already feeding your dog Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. If so, why not add a quality dental chew to the mix? It can help reduce plaque and tartar, freshen your dog’s breath, and keep those gums healthy.
As dog owners, we all want the best for our furry friends. That often means choosing all-natural dog food. But just like with human health, it's important to know what you're really getting. A dog food label saying 'all natural' doesn’t automatically make it the best choice for your pet.
One of the big questions we hear a lot is, "What does 'all natural' actually mean when it comes to dog food?" It's a great question so let's get to it.
Dog food manufacturers sometimes use phrases like 'all natural' and '100% natural'. These are essentially the same but what do they actually mean? To label dog food as all natural, manufacturers need to meet these four conditions:
Interestingly, some manufacturers avoid the term 'all natural' because the requirements are so strict.
You should know there’s a bit of wiggle room here. Instead of saying 'all natural', a manufacturer might just use 'natural'. This term is less strictly regulated than others, like 'organic'.
Another thing to keep in mind is that 'natural' is loosely defined under federal and state regulations. The FDA hasn’t officially defined 'natural' for pet food labeling. Their only rule is that labeling can’t be false or misleading. This gives manufacturers a lot of leeway to use words that suggest natural dog food without actually saying 'all natural'.
So, what does all this mean for you as a dog owner? All-natural is a great claim to help you feel confident in the quality of the ingredients, but it doesn’t necessarily mean those ingredients are healthy. For example, a recipe made primarily of sugar and fat can be considered all-natural but not very healthy. Be sure to check the ingredient label to know what natural ingredients are being used.
At the end of the day, healthy and quality ingredients matter but how those ingredients are processed matters, too. That’s why Nextrition specializes in cold-pressed dog food. Cold pressing processes food at 3x lower temperatures vs. traditional kibble, preserving more of the natural nutritional value and flavor.
We’re transparent about our ingredients. Check out each of our formulas and see for yourself. Our ingredients are chosen to offer maximum nutritional value with every bite. They’re perfect for sensitive stomachs and picky eaters. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to drop us a line.
It's well-known that a balanced diet and regular exercise are pivotal for our dogs' happiness and well-being. So, it's understandably worrying when your dog suddenly turns up her nose at her usual food. If you've found yourself in this situation, it's natural to fear that it might be indicative of a serious health issue. A dog's loss of appetite can indeed be concerning, but it's important to approach the situation calmly.
If your furry friend is shunning her usual food, the first step is to stay calm. It’s not uncommon for dogs to skip a meal or two. This could simply be due to a minor ailment or a passing mood. However, if this disinterest in food persists for more than 16-18 hours, it’s time to delve a bit deeper.
Closely observing your dog is essential to determine the root cause of her reluctance to eat. Watch for any signs of illness, such as vomiting or lethargy. These symptoms, coupled with a refusal to eat, could point to underlying health issues, ranging from digestive troubles and dental pain to bacterial infections. In such cases, a vet visit is important.
We take care of everything when it comes to our dogs' health. But certain things can catch us off guard, prompting a frantic search on the internet about what to do. One situation that may send a ripple of worry to every pet owner is if our dog accidentally consumes moldy dog food.
While it may appear harmless, consuming moldy food is risky for their health. Let’s explore some details to understand better the potential risks of consuming moldy food and how to handle this situation.
Yes, moldy food can be harmful to dogs as it contains mycotoxins. Molds produce this toxic substance in food and plant material, including cheese, bread, fruits, and dog food.
Mold mainly occurs when dog food is improperly stored or kept past its expiration date. Moisture, warm temperatures, or exposure to air can also encourage mold growth in dry kibble and wet dog food.
If your dog has accidentally eaten moldy food, you should take prompt action to ensure their well-being. Here are a few steps to follow:
If your dog has ingested something potentially harmful, you should consult a professional. You should also tell your veterinarian what type and amount of moldy food your dog consumes and how long it has been since it last ate it.
If you cannot contact a veterinarian, contact the
Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
You should keep a close eye on your dog and keep track of any symptoms that might appear within 24-48 hours of eating moldy food. Some common symptoms of mycotoxin poisoning may include:
In addition, a specific type of mycotoxin, aflatoxin, can affect a dog’s liver function. In such cases, you’ll notice symptoms like yellowing of the skin (jaundice), lethargy, or changes in behavior. However, these symptoms might take a few days to appear, and it might be too late for treatment.
That’s why the best action is to consult a veterinarian immediately after your dog has eaten moldy food.
While you contact your veterinarian and wait for their instructions, ensure your dog can access clean, fresh water. This will serve a dual purpose: First, it’ll help flush out toxins from the dog's body, which might help reduce the impact of moldy food. Second, it will help prevent dehydration, especially in dogs who have experienced symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.
Consuming moldy food can have a severe effect on a dog’s health. That’s why taking specific proactive steps to prevent such incidents is essential. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Ensure you’re storing your dog’s food properly and adhering to the storage guidelines recommended on the product packaging. Most dry dog foods should be kept in a dry place with a cool, stable temperature. The food should be kept away from moisture, heat, and excessive exposure to air, as that can trigger the growth of molds.
Our cold-pressed dog food may last longer because your dog needs less food to feel full. Airtight containers ensure that no food goes to waste.
Check your dog’s food regularly for signs of mold. If you notice unusual colors, odors, or textures, discard the food immediately.
Also, keep track of the food's expiration date, especially if you store it in a separate container rather than its original packaging.
Keep the trash cans in your home closed and secured to prevent your dog from scavenging for moldy or spoiled food. You can keep the trash can in a place that is less accessible to your dog and use childproof latches on the cabinet that holds it.
If you are disposing of something hazardous for your dog, try to use a secure outdoor trash can that is out of their reach.
Be mindful of the places where you take your dog for walks. They might be tempted to explore places where trash is stored and consume potential hazards like moldy food or discarded items, which could pose a health risk.
Use positive reinforcement techniques such as verbal praises and treats as rewards to teach your dog various commands, especially "leave it" or "drop it." These will help discourage them from picking and consuming anything that can harm their health.
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's overall health and well-being. This will help you address dietary concerns and get professional advice to prevent unforeseen health issues.
Moldy food can cause severe problems for dogs. Therefore, as responsible pet owners, we want to take every precaution to store their food correctly and regularly inspect the meals for any signs of mold.
If a dog accidentally eats moldy food, you should take prompt action to prevent unforeseen circumstances. We recommend contacting a veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about a dog’s health and moldy dog food:
Yes, dogs can get sick from eating moldy dog food, as the mold may contain mycotoxins. These toxic substances can lead to various health issues in dogs.
If your dog has eaten moldy food, consult a veterinarian immediately. They’ll advise you on how to handle the situation based on what type and amount of moldy food your dog consumes.
You might start noticing symptoms of mycotoxin poisoning caused by eating moldy food within 24-48 hours. The initial symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, lethargy, tremors, incoordination, seizures, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and fever.
However, a specific type of mycotoxin, aflatoxin, can take a few days to show the first symptoms. That’s why it’s recommended that you consult a veterinarian immediately after your dog has eaten moldy food.
Did the vet mention giving your dog a Bordetella shot, you may be wondering what that is. The confusion is understandable. We care so much about our dogs that an unfamiliar term like “Bordetella” can spark concern.
But don’t worry - we’ve got your back.
This article will explain everything you need to know about Bordetella and how it affects a dog. We’ll cover various topics, including what Bordetella is, its symptoms, and the importance of its vaccine. This information will help you decide about your dog’s health and well-being.
In simple terms, Bordetella is a type of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections in various species. It is also known more commonly as “kennel cough.” Bordetella bronchiseptica is the primary species of this bacteria and is explicitly associated with respiratory issues in dogs.
This bacteria is spread through airborne droplets, direct contact with infected animals, or contaminated environments. That’s why it’s more common in kennels, dog parks, grooming facilities, boarding facilities, daycares, etc.
The likelihood of a dog catching an infection by this bacterium increases under certain conditions, including:
It’s also important to note that humans can't contract Bordetella from dogs. However, since the bacteria can stay on surfaces, there’s a risk that we can transmit this bacteria from one infected dog to another. Taking proper precautions, like regularly washing and disinfecting our hands and surfaces that dogs frequently interact with can help stop the spread.
The most common symptom of Bordetella bronchiseptica is persistent coughing that sounds similar to honking. This cough is loud and harsh because it irritates the respiratory tract. It often differs from a regular cough, but the exact sound can vary among dogs.
Apart from that, some other clinical signs can accompany this respiratory infection. These may include:
You should consult a veterinarian if your dog shows any of the above signs of a respiratory infection. Also, in such cases, it is advised to avoid taking your dog to parks or other public places until they are correctly diagnosed to prevent the spread of this infection to other dogs.
Despite being highly contagious, respiratory infections caused by Bordetella are treatable. In fact, in the case of a healthy dog, the symptoms can even resolve on their own within a few weeks. Nevertheless, you should visit a veterinarian if you suspect any problems with your dog’s health.
This is especially important if you have a dog with a weakened immune system, a puppy, or an older dog. These dogs typically need extra attention and proper care to fight against Bordetella.
You should also contact your vet in advance or before visiting so that they can prepare for the visit and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Bordetella.
A Bordetella vaccine is your best bet to protect your dog against the infection caused by this bacteria. This preventive measure will significantly reduce your dog's risk of contracting the illness, ensuring their well-being.
If you’re unsure when or if your dog needs this vaccine, talk to your veterinarian. They can better advise you based on your dog’s lifestyle and health condition.
You can also take the following preventive measures to protect your dog against Bordetella:
Bordetella, also known as kennel cough, is a common and highly contagious bacteria that leads to respiratory infections in dogs. It can spread through airborne droplets, direct contact with infected dogs, or contaminated environments.
However, you can take preventive measures, including vaccinations, to reduce your dog's risk of contracting this infection. This is especially important if you have a dog with a weakened immune system, a puppy, or an older dog who needs extra care.
Remember that respiratory infections caused by Bordetella are treatable, but you should visit a veterinarian to ensure your dog gets proper treatment.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about Bordetella in dogs:
Bordetella is a type of bacteria, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being the primary species. It’s known for causing respiratory infections in dogs.
Bordetella is highly contagious and can spread through airborne droplets, direct contact with infected dogs, or contaminated environments. It’s common in places where dogs gather closely, such as kennels, dog parks, grooming facilities, boarding facilities, and daycares.
The Bordetella vaccine protects dogs against respiratory infections caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica. It’s a preventive measure that significantly reduces their risk of contracting the illness.
You should consult your veterinarian to know more about this vaccine and its importance. They’ll help you determine whether your dog needs it based on their lifestyle and health condition.
Yes, Bordetella in dogs is treatable. In fact, in a healthy dog, the symptoms can even resolve independently within a few weeks. Nevertheless, it’s always advisable to visit a veterinarian if you suspect any problems with your dog’s health. This is especially important if you have a dog with a weakened immune system, a puppy, or an older dog that needs extra care.
Dogs are known for their boundless enthusiasm when it comes to eating, matched only by their curiosity and their impressive scavenging skills. However, this combination sometimes leads them to consume things they shouldn’t, resulting in avoidable digestive issues. A more discerning approach to their diet, such as choosing
Nextrition cold-pressed dog food, can help prevent many of these issues.
Digestive problems are quite common among dogs, akin to the digestive sensitivities we humans often experience. Fortunately, most of these issues with dogs are minor and resolve naturally over time. For more severe cases, modern veterinary medicine provides effective treatments.
