Leading vet
Raw food diets for dogs have grown in popularity over the last several years. Proponents claim that raw food is healthier than traditional dog food. However, most veterinarians do not recommend raw diets for their patients. What’s true and who’s right? The truth is that there are many misconceptions about raw food diets. Purported benefits have not been validated and many pet parents are unaware of the risks associated with a raw diet. Before deciding to switch to a raw diet, make sure you understand the pros and cons of raw food diets.
Raw food diets, also known as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or PMR (Prey Model Raw) diets, involve feeding dogs raw meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables and fruits.
According to JAVMA, raw diets are “diets that include uncooked ingredients derived from domesticated or wild caught food animal species that are fed to dogs or cats living in home environments.” These diets may include bones, skeletal muscle, byproducts, organs, unpasteurized milk, and uncooked eggs. To further complicate matters, raw food diets can be commercially available or home-made.
There are several reasons why people feed their pets raw food diets. Proponents of raw food diets believe that raw food diets have many benefits. Is this truth or fiction?
1. “Raw food diets are closer to what our dogs’ ancestors ate in the wild.”
Advocates for a raw food diet believe that domesticated dogs have the same nutritional needs as their wild ancestors. Since dogs descended from wolves, they believe that our dogs’ diets should mimic what wolves eat. Wolves are carnivores whose digestive systems have evolved to process raw meat, bones, and organs. Proponents of the raw food diet argue that traditional dog food is overly processed and contains carbohydrates and other additives that can lead to a host of health problems, including obesity, dental disease, and gastrointestinal issues.
While this idea may seem to make sense, it is based on the flawed assumption that domesticated dogs have the same nutritional needs as wolves. A new study that compared the genome of domesticated dogs with wolves found that dogs have evolved and adapted significantly from wolves. “The genome signature of dog domestication” shows that they have adapted to a starch-rich diet. Unlike wolves that are pure carnivores, dogs are in fact omnivores.
As omnivores, domesticated dogs have evolved so that their gut can digest and metabolize plant-based ingredients in addition to meat. However, dogs still need a diet that is high in animal protein and fat to meet their nutritional needs. Protein is necessary for the growth and maintenance of muscle tissue and fat is important for energy, insulation, and the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Though dogs are not carnivores, the take home point is that they require a balanced diet that is high in animal protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fiber. Their digestive system is not equipped to handle large amounts of carbohydrates or fiber. Diets that are high in carbohydrates can lead to weight gain, digestive problems, and other health issues.
2. “Raw foods are more easily digestible than processed kibble.”
There is a common belief that raw food diets are more easily digestible than kibble. Proponents of raw food diets often claim that dogs are better adapted to digest raw meat and bones. There is some evidence from studies that raw food diets are more digestible but most of these studies were done in cats and not dogs. For example, one study that examined feeding raw or kibble to African wildcats reported better crude protein digestibility in raw diets though this did not apply to fat, dry matter, or energy digestibility.
A study in dogs that compared extruded dry kibble (commercial dog food), high-moisture roasted refrigerated, high-moisture grain-free roasted refrigerated, and raw diet reported mixed results. When compared to kibble, raw diet had better digestibility in fat but not crude protein or energy (high-moisture grain-free roasted refrigerated had higher crude protein digestibility than raw). Ultimately, a review of the literature shows little scientific evidence to support the claim that raw food is more digestible than kibble in dogs. In fact, raw food diets can be tough and fibrous and cause gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, diarrhea, and even blockages in the digestive tract. While raw food diets may seem like a more natural and therefore more digestible option for dogs, the evidence does not support this claim.
3. “Raw food diets are better for your dog’s teeth.”
Another myth about raw food diets is that they are better for your dog’s teeth. However, a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition reported that home-prepared diets had a higher risk of a dog having oral health issues than commercial dry food (41% versus 22%). Another study reported a 42% decrease in the accumulation of tartar with larger kibble. Ironically, raw food diets that include bones may injure your dog’s teeth. Bone is added to raw food diets to provide calcium and phosphorus. However, if the bones are not ground completely, bone fragments can break a tooth or cause gastrointestinal problems.
While the purported benefits of a raw food diet are questionable at best, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that raw food diets may actually be harmful to dogs. Raw diets may contain dangerous bacteria, bone fragments that can cause problems, be nutritionally deficient, or be harmful to people.
One of the primary concerns with raw food diets is the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw meat and bones can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. One study reported that 80% of home-prepared raw chicken-based diets were contaminated with Salmonella versus 0% in commercial kibble. Commercial raw meat-based diets have not fared better. Another study reported that 21% of 166 commercial raw diets were contaminated with Salmonella. Dogs can become sick from these bacteria by ingesting contaminated raw food or by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces. And, it is not just dogs, humans can also become sick when they come in contact with bacterial contaminated food, bowls or feces
Raw food diets contain bones as an ingredient. Raw bones are often included in commercial raw food diets as a natural source of calcium and other nutrients. However, these bones can be very hard and if they are not ground sufficiently, bone fragments can cause dental fractures, broken teeth, and other serious dental problems. In addition, bone fragments can also cause gastrointestinal injuries and lead to constipation.
Another risk associated with raw food diets is the potential for nutritional deficiencies and imbalances. Home-cooked diets, and even some commercially-available raw food diets, often lack essential nutrients which can lead to a range of health problems. For example, a lack of calcium can result in weakened bones and teeth, while a lack of vitamin D can cause rickets. Additionally, raw food diets may not provide enough fiber or carbohydrates, which can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as constipation and diarrhea. A recent European study found that 60% of homemade raw diets had major nutritional imbalances and did not meet the nutritional needs of the pet.
It is also important to note that raw food diets may not be suitable for all dogs. Dogs with certain health conditions, such as pancreatitis or kidney disease, may not be able to tolerate a high-protein diet.
Raw food diets also pose a risk for humans. Handling raw meat and dishes can expose people to harmful bacteria like salmonella, E. coli and listeria. These bacteria pose even greater problems for people who are young, immunocompromised, old, or pregnant.
While proponents of raw food diets claim that raw food diets can improve dogs’ overall health, coat, and digestion, there is little evidence to support these claims. To date there are no published randomized controlled studies that support the purported benefits of a raw food diet. On the other hand, there is a growing body of evidence that highlights the potential risks of raw food diets.
Besides the questionable benefits and known risks, raw food diets can be expensive and time-consuming to prepare. Unlike traditional dog food, which is readily available and requires no preparation to serve, raw food diets require careful planning and preparation. The meat and other ingredients must be sourced from reputable suppliers and the food must be stored and handled properly to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. Additionally, the cost of raw food diets can be prohibitively high, especially for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs.
Even though raw food diets may seem like a healthy alternative to traditional dog food, the risks associated with these diets far outweigh any potential benefits. The risk of bacterial contamination, nutritional imbalances, dental damage, and the cost and time involved in preparing raw food diets makes them impractical and potentially dangerous.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) “does not advocate nor endorse feeding pets any raw or dehydrated non sterilized foods, including treats that are of animal origin.” Likewise, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discourages the feeding to cats and dogs of any animal-source protein that has not first been subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens because of the risk of illness to cats and dogs as well as humans. Remember, if you have any questions about your dog’s diet, talk with your veterinarian to choose the best food for your pet’s individual needs.
“Dogs and cats are naturally resistant to salmonella or other bacteria”
FALSE! Pets are not immune to bacteria. Dogs can contract Salmonella, E-coli, Listeria, and other bacteria, just like humans and other animals.
“Any food can be contaminated with, it’s not just raw food”
While this is TRUE, bacterial contamination is much more likely with raw diets.
“Bones in raw diets are good for pets”
FALSE! Bones can fracture teeth, cause gastrointestinal injury, and constipation.
“Freezing or Freeze-Drying kills bacteria that could be found in raw diets”
FALSE! Many of the bacteria that are found in raw meat can survive freezing.
Q: Is a raw dog food diet safe?
A: While proponents of raw food diets claim their benefits, most veterinarians do not recommend them due to potential risks. Raw diets can be contaminated with harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which pose health risks to both dogs and humans. Additionally, improperly formulated raw diets may result in nutritional deficiencies or imbalances, potentially causing health issues in dogs.
Q: What are the potential benefits of a raw dog food diet?
A: Proponents of raw food diets claim several benefits, such as improved overall health, coat condition, and digestion. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. Raw food diets are often thought to mimic what dogs' ancestors ate in the wild, but dogs have evolved as omnivores and require a balanced diet that includes animal protein, fat, and limited carbohydrates and fiber.
Q: What types of raw food are typically included in a raw dog food diet?
A: Raw dog food diets typically consist of raw meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables and fruits. Some variations of raw diets, such as the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or PMR (Prey Model Raw) diets, may include a combination of these ingredients. It's important to note that raw diets can be commercially available or homemade.
Q: Are there any risks associated with a raw dog food diet?
A: Yes, there are several risks associated with raw dog food diets. Bacterial contamination is a significant concern, as raw meat and bones can carry harmful bacteria that can cause illness in both dogs and humans. Dental damage can also occur due to the hardness of raw bones, which can fracture teeth or cause gastrointestinal injuries. Additionally, homemade raw diets may lack essential nutrients, leading to nutritional deficiencies or imbalances.
Q: Should I consult with a veterinarian before starting my dog on a raw food diet?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to consult with a veterinarian before starting your dog on a raw food diet. Veterinarians can provide guidance based on your dog's individual health needs and assess the potential risks and benefits. They can also help ensure that the diet is balanced and meets your dog's nutritional requirements.
Q: How should I transition my dog to a raw food diet?
A: If you decide to transition your dog to a raw food diet, it's important to do so gradually. Start by introducing small amounts of raw food alongside their regular diet and gradually increase the proportion of raw food while decreasing the previous diet. This gradual transition helps minimize digestive upset and allows your dog's system to adjust to the new diet.
Q: Can all dogs eat a raw food diet?
A: Raw food diets may not be suitable for all dogs. Dogs with specific health conditions, such as pancreatitis or kidney disease, may require dietary restrictions that a high-protein raw diet may not accommodate. It's crucial to consider your dog's individual health needs and consult with a veterinarian before making any dietary changes.
Q: How do I ensure that my dog's raw food diet is balanced?
A: Achieving a balanced raw food diet can be challenging, especially with homemade diets. It's important to work with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to formulate a balanced diet that meets your dog's nutritional needs. This includes considering the appropriate ratios of animal protein, fat, and essential nutrients while minimizing the risks of bacterial contamination.
Q: Can I feed my dog only raw meat?
A: Feeding your dog only raw meat may not provide a balanced diet. Dogs require a combination of animal protein, fat, and other nutrients to meet their nutritional needs. A raw meat-only diet may lack essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients necessary for optimal health. It's essential to formulate a balanced raw food diet that includes a variety of ingredients to ensure your dog's nutritional requirements are met.
Q: Are there commercial raw dog food options available?
A: Yes, there are commercial raw dog food options available. These commercial raw diets are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and may provide a more balanced option compared to homemade raw diets. However, it's important to choose reputable brands that follow proper food safety protocols and consult with a veterinarian to ensure the chosen commercial raw diet is appropriate for your dog.
Be it pumpkin spice lattes or pumpkin pies, we love the taste and smell of this round winter squash. It reminds us of cozy memories, jack-o-lanterns, and many other fall festivals. But have you ever wanted to share a slice of pumpkin with your dog?
The good news is you can! Pumpkin is one such food that can offer the right amounts of vitamins and other needed nutrients to your dog. But not all kinds of foods made with pumpkin are safe for dogs.
This article will guide you on how to feed pumpkins to your dog without causing any health issues. But first, let's explore some more amazing health benefits of pumpkin for a dog.
Pumpkin has a ton of different benefits for dogs. We'll discuss 8 such amazing benefits that help support your dog's overall health.
Pumpkin is a superfood for your dog. It contains vitamin A which promotes healthy skin and eyes including night vision. It’s also a great source of vitamins C and E, as well as minerals like iron and potassium which help regulate your dogs’ blood pressure, improve muscle health, and boost immune health.
Vitamin E helps keep away free radicals that can trigger abnormal cell growth. Whereas iron helps keep your dog’s hemoglobin levels up.
A healthy digestive system is crucial for your dog. Pumpkin has a high soluble fiber content, which aids digestion. This fiber content adds bulk to your dog’s stool by absorbing water. This helps treat diarrhea.
What if your dog has constipation? Feeding your dog pumpkin for mild constipation can help. You can add 1-to-3 tablespoons of pumpkin to your dog’s diet and the fiber content of the pumpkin will help in eliminating the feces from the body.
But do remember to keep your dog well hydrated when increasing the fiber content of their diet otherwise constipation can get worse.
Furthermore, the fermentation of fiber produces fatty acids that supply energy to cells. Thus pumpkin also helps in lowering the acidity level in the large intestines of your dog.
Pumpkin has a slightly sweet taste and a rich creamy flavor which is appealing to even the fussiest dogs. You can get these in various forms - canned, cooked, and pureed according to your preference.
But do avoid buying pumpkin pie filling or spiced canned pumpkin. It might contain ingredients like sugar, cloves, ginger, or cinnamon that aren't safe for dogs.
Beyond its delicious taste, pumpkin is a great food to promote weight loss in your pet. It has fewer calories and high fiber content which helps keep them full. It also allows your dog to lose some excess water in its body.
Urinary incontinence is loss of bladder control which can happen due to many reasons including UTI, weak bladder, hormonal imbalance, urinary stones, etc.
Pumpkin seeds and flesh contain antioxidants and a healthy dose of Omega 3 fatty acids. These help dislodge kidney stones and prevent urinary incontinence in your dog.
The most common kind of parasites in dogs are tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms, and roundworms. If any of these parasites are present in your dog’s digestive tract, they can cause severe nutritional deficiency.
For centuries, people have used pumpkin as a dewormer. Pumpkin seeds are very effective in treating intestinal worms as they contain an amino acid called cucurbitin. It weakens the intestinal worms keeping your dog healthy and worm-free.
70% of the immune system is impacted by a healthy gut and a healthy immune system in dogs is critical in fighting infections and diseases. The antioxidant properties of pumpkin can boost your pet's immune system. They can destroy free radicals or “oxidants” in your pet’s body.
Prebiotics are a very essential compounds found in specific foods like pumpkin. These are the indigestible carbohydrates that move through the digestive tract of your dog. It reaches the colon where they get converted into short-chain fatty acids. These acids provide a source of energy for the good bacteria that live in your dog's digestive system. It aids in improving digestion and helps the immune system work better.
Now that you know how beneficial pumpkin is for your dog’s health, you’ll want to know “how much pumpkin do you give to a dog”
The amount of pumpkin you should feed your dog depends on its size. Small dogs can be fed 1 teaspoon and large dogs can eat 2 to 3 tablespoons of pumpkin per day. It is also recommended to begin with small quantities and increase gradually to avoid adding too much fiber.
If you’re unsure about how to start, below are the 4 most common ways you can feed pumpkin to your dog.
Plain canned pumpkin is a good choice for your dog. It contains a mixture of vitamins, iron fiber, and potassium. You can serve it in various ways like:
Most pet parents prepare home-cooked meals for their dogs. But it should be noted that canned pumpkin is actually more beneficial as it has more nutrients and fibers whereas fresh pumpkin has higher water content.
But if you still want fresh pumpkin, make sure you cook it well before serving. Just take a small piece of pumpkin and scoop out the seeds. Place the pumpkin slices on a baking sheet that's lined with parchment paper. Bake it until the pumpkin flesh is fork-tender. Before removing the skin, let the pumpkin cool. Then cut the baked pumpkin into small pieces, blend, and serve.
Pumpkin seeds are a highly nutritious part of the pumpkin. But they should be served more sparingly. Ideally, one pumpkin seed per 10 lbs of body weight per day is considered safe. You can easily shell, clean and roast fresh seeds and then grind them up to feed your dog.
But be wary of buying store-bought pumpkin seeds because they contain additional oils, salt and spices which may create health risks for your dog.
You can find many pumpkin supplements in the market. These are generally available in powdered form that you can mix with water to get a canned pumpkin puree-like consistency. Most pet owners prefer them while traveling or camping as it’s convenient to carry.
The supplements have a nutrition chart that can provide you with the exact nutritional value of the product. But it’s recommended that you consult a veterinarian before adding a pumpkin supplement to your dog’s diet.
While pumpkin has numerous benefits for your dog, you need to be cautious about a few things. Firstly make sure you feed your dog the right amount of pumpkin. Too much of anything is harmful.
Pumpkin contains fiber and too much fiber decreases the amount of protein and other nutrients your pet can absorb from their food. It puts them at a risk for deficiencies.
Secondly, if you’re buying canned pumpkins, read the ingredient list. You can only feed plain pumpkin puree to your dog. The puree made for pumpkin pie filling has added fat, sugar, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, or cinnamon. These spices can be toxic for your dog.
Also, avoid sugar-free canned pumpkins as it contains artificial sweeteners and xylitol, a life-threatening toxin for dogs.
Feeding your dog only dry kibble can fulfill their basic nutritional requirements but enhancing their diet with healthy ingredients such as pumpkin can help them feel their best. That’s why professionals recommend enhancing your dog’s diet with nutrient-rich foods.
Pumpkin is one such superfood and a natural stomach soother for your dogs. It contains essential nutrients and fibers to keep our dogs happy and healthy. Plus, as an added bonus, the taste of pumpkins always makes your dog’s tail wag.
Yes, you can serve freshly made or plain canned pumpkin puree to your dogs every day. If you have a small pup, serve 1 teaspoon pumpkin and 2-3 teaspoons to big dogs per day.
Pumpkin contains soluble fiber content that adds bulk to the dog’s stool by absorbing water. It's very helpful in treating diarrhea.
Pumpkin has high nutritional value, it promotes digestive health, and can prevent many diseases and infections. Hence it can be a great supplement to add in your dog’s foods.
Plain canned pumpkin is one of the healthiest options for your dog. You can also make fresh pumpkin puree and roast some pumpkin seeds.
But while buying canned pumpkins, make sure you get the plain one and not the pumpkin pie filling as that contains added fat, sugar, and spices. These ingredients can be toxic for dogs.
Yes, pumpkin as dog food is easy on the stomach of both puppies and grown dogs.
Yes, you can feed roasted pumpkin seeds to your dog. Make sure you properly shell, clean and roast fresh seeds and then grind them up to feed your dog. And prepare them without any oils and added spices as they can be harmful for your dogs health.
Source:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-pumpkin-help-with-dog-diarrhea/
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/can-i-give-dog-pumpkin
https://blog.homesalive.ca/dog-blog/health-benefits-of-pumpkin-for-dogs
https://www.pumpkin.care/blog/is-pumpkin-good-for-dogs/
Salmon, a reddish oily fish, is a popular and healthy food item that’s eaten around the globe. Their rich buttery flavor makes them one of the most consumed fish, especially in America.
But do you know the appreciation of this fish isn’t limited to humans only? Our pups enjoy eating salmon too! Now as a concerned pet parent, you might wonder if it’s the right decision to feed salmon to a dog.
In this article, we’ll discuss whether you should feed salmon to your dog and whether it has the same health benefits for them as it does for humans.
The short answer is YES! Dogs can eat salmon as it offers many health benefits. In fact, you’ll find many popular commercial dog foods use salmon as a main ingredient.
But how does this fish improve or support your dog's health? Let’s find the answer to this question by discussing the 5 reasons dog food companies use this ingredient.
Protein is an essential nutrient in your dog’s diet. It’s required for growth, healing, and almost every metabolic process.
Salmon contains approximately 20 grams of protein per 100 grams. This is very close to other protein sources like chicken which contains approximately 27 grams per 100 grams and beef which contains approximately 26 grams per 100 grams.
This is why real salmon, chicken, or some other kind of meat is the first and largest individual ingredient in more premium dog foods. If your veterinarian has recommended a fish-based diet for your pup, you can find some good options.
But it’s important to note that just a home-cooked salmon does not contain all the nutrients a dog needs. That’s why you should never replace their daily well-balanced meal with just salmon.
This however doesn’t apply to commercial dog food that’s made using salmon and is labeled a complete meal because it contains other ingredients that balance its nutritional profile.
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play an important role in your dog’s diet. These can be categorized into 3 sets α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). While ALA is found in plant oils, DHA and EPA are found in fish and other seafood.
It is important to note that your dog’s body doesn’t produce these fatty acids. You need to add supplements or food items like salmon that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids in their daily diet.
These fatty acids can have many positive effects on the overall health of your dog, such as:
Salmon has a rich nutritional value. It contains many vitamins and minerals that play an important role in supporting various functions in your dog’s body.
The complete nutritional breakdown of salmon is as follows:
The omega-3 fatty acids present in salmon play an important role in promoting healthy bowel function. Firstly, they help in lubricating the digestive tract which keeps digestion flowing smoothly. Secondly, the anti-inflammatory properties of salmon strengthen the intestinal lining in your dog’s body and help prevent many gastrointestinal diseases.
Salmon has less cholesterol and saturated fat when compared to other popular meat options like chicken. If your dog is trying to lose some weight, it might be a good option to add salmon to their diet.
You can even talk to your veterinarian about switching to a fish-based diet to promote healthy weight loss. But don’t replace their entire meal with just home-cooked salmon as it doesn’t contain all the necessary nutrients required by a dog’s body.
Now that you know the benefits of feeding salmon to your dog, the next question that comes to mind is how often should you feed them salmon, and can a dog eat salmon every day?
Ideally, the answer will vary depending on your dog’s health, age, breed, and nutritional requirements. But you can feed a complete and balanced commercial pet food with salmon every day.
If you’re cooking salmon at home, you can serve it as a treat or mix it in with their daily well-balanced meal.
If you’re skeptical about your dog's dietary requirements and restrictions, you can consult with your veterinarian before adding salmon to their diet.
There are various ways to feed salmon to your dog. Below we have outlined some of the popular ways of preparing salmon and which ones are safe for your dogs.
Many vets recommend avoiding raw or undercooked salmon to your dog. It might contain a parasite called neorickettsia helminthoeca which is known to cause salmon poisoning disease. This disease can be deadly for your dog.
The dangerous part is that your dog might not even show signs of salmon poisoning until 5-6 days after eating a raw infected fish. After which it often gets too late to actually treat them.
If in case your dog has eaten or even licked raw salmon, you should consult your veterinarian immediately.
Cooked salmon is a healthy option for your dog. You can pan fry, grill, roast, steam, poach, and even bake salmon before feeding.
Just remember to not add any additional ingredients or seasonings like butter, onion, garlic, salt, or pepper as these can be harmful to a dog’s health. You can however use small amounts of dog-friendly oils like sunflower oil to avoid the fish sticking to the pan while cooking.
Also, while cooking, make sure the internal temperature of salmon reaches at least 145°F to kill all the bacteria and parasites. Once cooked perfectly, allow the salmon to completely cool down before serving it to your dog.
You can try various ways to add salmon to your dog's diet such as:
Canned salmon is a safe and convenient way to feed your dog. You can easily carry it along when going on picnics or small trips with your dog.
But while buying canned salmon, look for dog-friendly brands or salmon that’s soaked in water. Oil-soaked canned salmon contains sodium and fat. If eaten in large amounts, these ingredients can be harmful to your dog.
Also, check the ingredient list before buying. It shouldn’t contain any other harmful additional ingredients.
Dogs shouldn’t eat smoked salmon as it contains high levels of sodium. On average, 100 grams of smoked salmon contains 700 milligrams of sodium whereas 100 grams of fresh cooked salmon has only 75 milligrams of sodium.
Too much sodium in your dog’s diet can lead to multiple health problems including vomiting, weakness, diarrhea, excessive dehydration, and seizures. It can also lead to salt poisoning or sodium poisoning.
Apart from the actual salmon meat, it may also consist of skin and bones. Let’s briefly discuss whether these parts of salmon are safe for your dog or not.
Your dog can eat cooked salmon skin but it isn’t as healthy as the actual fish. The skin has a higher fat content that can lead to health issues like weight gain if eaten regularly.
You can restrict the consumption of salmon skin for an occasional treat. Also when you serve them salmon skin, cut it into small pieces so it’s easy to chew and digest for a dog.
Salmon bones are small, hard, and very sharp. They can get lodged in your dog’s mouth or stomach causing them to choke or lead to some serious damage to their digestive tract. Thus it’s important that you carefully remove all the bones from the salmon before cooking and feeding it to your dog. It’s always a good idea to buy a boneless salmon filet for your dog.
Dogs can eat salmon eggs or salmon roe but it’s also an unhealthy option. It contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and calcium that can be beneficial for their health. But salmon eggs also contain a high amount of sodium which can cause some major health issues.
In a nutshell, the same rules of feeding salmon to a dog apply while feeding salmon to a puppy.
It’s a tasty and nutritious food option that can offer many health benefits during their early growth and development stages. But don’t exceed the recommended portion sizes which is 10 grams of salmon for every 500 grams of their weight once a week only.
Also, cook the salmon properly, allow it to cool down, and serve on its own or add it to their daily meal.
There might be a chance that your puppy has a fish allergy, so try to serve them a small piece first and monitor their reaction for the next 24-48 hours. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction like vomiting, diarrhea, or constant scratching or licking, contact a veterinarian.
Salmon is a popular protein added to commercial dog foods. You’ll find various treat options, meal mixers, and complete meals made using salmon.
If you want to feed your dog fish-based food but don’t want to go through the trouble of cooking salmon at home, you can try these dog foods.
Salmon oil is another great option for your dog especially if they’re suffering from skin allergies or itchy and dry skin. This oil is made from the healthy fats or omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon. But since it’s a supplement you should consult a veterinarian about the required dosage.
Salmon is a safe and healthy fish to feed to your dog. The only two precautions you need to remember are the portion size and the risk of salmon poisoning.
Even though salmon is highly-nutritious , it isn't enough to fulfill your dog’s daily dietary needs. You should always feed this fish as a supplement to a well-balanced meal. You can also consult with your veterinarian to determine the exact portion size according to your dog’s requirements and health issues.
On the other hand, many vets recommend that salmon poisoning can be easily averted by simply keeping your dog away from raw salmon. Always cook the salmon before feeding and ensure that the internal temperature has reached a minimum of 145°F to kill all the bacteria and parasites.
Also, stay on alert about the following signs of salmon poisoning:
If you notice any of these signs within a week of feeding salmon to your dog, consult your vet immediately.
Salmon is a delicious and nutritious option for your dog. It's a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids and is also chock-full of vitamins.
But remember to monitor the portion sizes and serve salmon in moderation. It should never replace your dog’s well-balanced meal.
If you still have any doubts, you can talk to your veterinarian before feeding salmon to your dog.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about feeding salmon to a dog.
Many vets recommend that dogs should never eat raw salmon. It might contain neorickettsia helminthoeca parasite that causes salmon poisoning disease in dogs. It’s a fatal disease that can result in death if left untreated.
There’re various ways to cook delicious salmon for your dog. You can pan-fry, grill, roast, steam, poach, and even bake salmon filet before feeding it to your dog. But don’t use any additional ingredients and seasonings like onion, garlic, salt, and pepper while cooking.
Once cooked and cooled, you can cut it into small chunks and serve as a treat or mix it in with their usual meal.
Yes, a dog can eat canned salmon that’s soaked in water. You should however avoid oil-soaked salmon for your dog as it contains salt, fat, and oils. If eaten in large amounts, these ingredients can be harmful to your dog.
Dogs can eat cooked salmon skin occasionally. It does contain many vitamins and minerals but it also contains high amounts of fat that can be harmful to a dog and can cause weight gain if eaten regularly.
On the other hand, dogs should not eat salmon bones as they are small, sharp, and brittle. They can easily get lodged in your dog's mouth or stomach which can lead to choking or damage to their digestive tract.
Yes, you can feed a complete and balanced commercial pet food with salmon every day.
You can feed unseasoned boiled salmon with some plain rice to your dog when they’re suffering from diarrhea. It isn’t a cure but it can help settle their tummy while providing some essential nutrients.
If your pet has any health issues, you should consult with your veterinarian before feeding them salmon.
Sources:
https://dogtime.com/dog-health/dog-food-dog-nutrition/83818-can-dogs-eat-salmon
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-salmon/
https://www.greatpetcare.com/dog-nutrition/can-dogs-eat-salmon/
Leading vet
As your furry friend ages, it's important to give them extra love, care, and attention. Senior dogs require different care routines to remain happy and healthy. Here are some helpful tips to keep your senior dog healthy and happy.
Senior dogs, which are defined as being 7 years or older, should visit their veterinarian at least twice a year for check-ups. This may seem frequent, but it isn’t when you consider that 6 months is roughly equivalent to 3 dog-years. An annual exam for a senior dog is the equivalent to an exam every 7 years for an elderly human patient, and no medical doctor would advise seeing their elderly human patients that infrequently.
Since many illnesses become more prevalent with increasing age, these routine exams are important. The goal of these visits is to diagnose and treat disease before it becomes more advanced and therefore more difficult to manage. During the exam, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam and look for evidence of disease. Your vet will also ask you for symptoms and changes in behavior that may indicate an underlying medical problem. Unfortunately, our dogs cannot communicate with us directly. They cannot tell us that they are experiencing pain or that they feel short of breath. Even though we can surmise these symptoms by being observant and recognizing, for instance, that Fido’s decreased activity may mean that his arthritis has worsened, we can never be certain. How do we know that his inactivity is due to shortness of breath rather than arthritic joints? We don’t, and veterinarians have the challenge of using every clue to make the right diagnosis. This includes the physical examination, the history you provide, and the use of screening diagnostic tests.
In between visits there are steps you can take to ensure that illnesses are recognized early. Primarily, you should watch for changes. While physical and physiologic changes are part of the aging process, there are certain changes that may signify illness. Changes in appetite, behavior, activity, appearance, and weight may signal the development of diseases. For instance, increases in eating, drinking and urination are the textbook symptoms of diabetes. Weight gain, decreased activity, and hair loss are the classic signs of hypothyroidism. These are just a few of the signs and symptoms that are hallmarks of diseases seen in our aging dogs. Likewise, you should keep an eye out for any new lumps and bumps on their pet. If any lumps or changes are noted, it is important to bring your dog to the veterinarian for an exam and work-up.
As dogs age, their nutritional and metabolic requirements change. Older pets are typically less active and require less caloric intake. They also lose muscle mass and develop more sensitive immune and digestive systems. It is important to provide them with a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements. Senior dogs need a moderate amount of fat, protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Feed your senior dog a high-quality food brand, and avoid foods that contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Speak with your veterinarian to determine which diet is best for your senior dog before changing diets.
Regular exercise is vital for senior dogs as it helps keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Exercise is important to keep your dog at their ideal body weight. Overweight dogs suffer from arthritis and losing weight can help alleviate their pain. Likewise, exercise can help with your dog’s mobility by keeping their joints supple. Depending on your dog's breed and size, set aside time every day for walks or playtime. Besides walking, activities such as swimming or hydrotherapy are low impact and can also help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Just be sure not to overdo it with your senior dog. They may still be a puppy at heart, but too much activity can take a toll on their senior joints.
Grooming is essential for senior dogs as their coats become more delicate and prone to matting. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair, dirt, and debris, which can cause skin irritation if left unattended. Additionally, grooming your older dogs gives you an excellent opportunity to inspect your dog's skin for lumps, cuts, and other injuries.
Just like humans, senior dogs tend to gain weight as they age. An overweight dog may look cute, but the extra pounds are bad for their health. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including heart problems, diabetes, and arthritis. Keep an eye on your dog's weight and adjust their diet and exercise regimen to keep them at a healthy weight.
Senior dogs can have trouble getting around. They may have difficulty going up and down stairs. Analogous to puppy-proofing your home, senior-proof your home by making sure that their living space is safely and easily accessible. Provide comfortable bedding for your senior dog that conforms to their body shape and supports arthritic joints. Additionally, depending on the climate, consider providing access to heating or cooling pads to provide warmth or coolness as needed.
As your dog enters their senior years, they are at risk for many of the same conditions affecting aging humans, such as diabetes, arthritis, and cancer to name a few. Fortunately, these conditions can be treated, especially if diagnosed early. Early diagnosis requires regular visits to the veterinarian, screening tests, and recognition of the warning signs by pet parents. Be sure to schedule regular vet visits, feed them a healthy diet, provide adequate exercise, monitor their weight, groom them regularly, and create safe and comfortable living conditions. Getting old is a normal and inevitable part of life. However, with proper care, senior dogs can live long, healthy lives.
Eggs are one of the most popular and healthiest breakfast foods. We love to enjoy them in various ways and dishes. But are they a healthy option for our dogs?
We know that it’s a rich source of protein but what other health benefits are associated with eggs? And an even bigger question is what are the safest ways to feed eggs to a dog? We’ll explore answers to all these questions in this article.
Let’s first discuss the various nutritional benefits of feeding eggs to dogs:
Amino acids are molecules that are known as the building blocks of proteins. It’s an essential component in your dog’s diet as protein is responsible for some major bodily functions.
Egg whites are considered a rich source of protein as it contains all the essential amino acids. They support the growth and repair of cells and other tissues including muscle, skin, bone, and hair in your dog’s body. These also help support the formation of hormones, antibodies, and enzymes that help boost the immune system.
Eggs, more precisely, the yolk contain 12 vitamins. Each of these has a unique function that helps promote the overall growth and development of your dog.
For example, vitamin A is responsible for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune system. Vitamin D helps the dog’s body in absorbing calcium and phosphorus and also supports healthy bones, strong teeth, and muscle function.
Eggs are a rich source of various minerals including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, magnesium, manganese, selenium, iron, and zinc. It also contains a moderate amount of sodium.
By adding an egg as a supplement to your dog’s diet, you can ensure they are getting a well-balanced diet.
The nutritional profile of an egg makes it a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. But there are certain aspects that you need to understand in order to reap the maximum benefit without any potential risks.
Let’s go through each of these topics individually.
Eggs should be considered as a treat for your dog and they should never substitute for a healthy well-balanced meal. Moreover, it shouldn’t be the only source of protein for your dogs.
The right amount of eggs you can safely feed your dog depends on various factors like their age, breed, activity level, and existing health condition. On average, one large boiled egg contains 70-80 calories. You’ll have to make sure this number doesn’t exceed the 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Furthermore, you should get in touch with your veterinarian to determine how many eggs you can feed your dog.
Chicken eggs are the most commonly used egg in our daily diets. But there are many other kinds of bird eggs available in the market and it would be helpful to understand which one of these are safe and healthy for your dog.
Yes, quail eggs can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. They’re a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog’s health.
Duck eggs are also safe and healthy for a dog. And, they contain higher amounts of certain nutrients when compared to chicken eggs.
The nutritional content of a turkey egg is similar to that of a chicken egg but contains twice the amount of calories and fat. The amount of cholesterol is also 4 times more than a chicken egg. This can cause digestive issues and other health problems for your dog.
So even though a turkey egg is safe to consume for a dog, it may not be a healthy option to include in their diet.
Now that you know what kind of eggs are healthy for your dog, you should know how to feed them to your dog in a healthy manner.
Many pet owners like to crack a raw egg over the dog’s kibble before feeding them. But if you talk to a veterinarian, they’ll most likely advise against feeding raw eggs to a dog.
The biggest reason is that raw eggs can carry bacteria like salmonella and e. Coli. Even though your dog’s immune system can fight mild symptoms of salmonella infection, the constant exposure can be life-threatening.
Another reason to avoid raw eggs is that raw egg whites contain an enzyme called avidin. If your dog consumes this enzyme regularly for an extended period of time it’ll start binding with biotin in the intestines making it unavailable for proper absorption. This can cause a biotin deficiency that can affect a dog’s skin, hair, and overall growth rate.
A hard-boiled egg is a good option for your dog. Plus, it’s really simple to make as all you have to do is boil an egg for 10-12 minutes.
Once cooked, remember to let them cool down and cut them into smaller pieces before serving.
Scrambled eggs are also safe for a dog. But make sure to keep the recipe plain and simple. Adding other ingredients like salt, butter, milk, cheese, herbs, or other seasonings can be harmful to a dog and can lead to several health issues.
Just like scrambled eggs, fried eggs are also safe for your dog. Just avoid adding any salt or seasoning that can affect your dog’s health.
It's safe to feed eggshells to your dog but in moderation as they contain high amounts of calcium. You have to take your dog’s health into account before feeding them eggshells.
The substantial amount of calcium can disrupt their daily nutritional requirements causing hypercalcemia, a health condition in which the calcium level in your dog’s blood goes abnormally high. It can lead to various problems including kidney stones and improper bone growth.
Another potential risk of feeding eggshells to your dog is that they can be a choking hazard. To avoid this, simply crush the shells by hand and mix them with the eggs. If you have a puppy or a small breed dog, consider grinding eggshells to make a powder and add that to their meal.
Dogs with allergies tend to be allergic to a specific type of protein in the food. Protein in eggs can be different than the protein from chicken, so if your dog is allergic to chicken they may not be allergic to eggs and vice versa.
To avoid any confusion, consult your veterinarian before adding eggs to your dog’s diet. And always start small by feeding your dog a quarter slice of an egg and monitoring their reaction and behavior for 24-48 hours.
If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction like restlessness, itching, coughing, sneezing, obsessive licking, etc, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Eggs can be a perfect supplement to your dog’s diet. You can easily cook, boil, or fry them before feeding them to your dog. But make sure you don’t feed raw eggs and avoid adding any seasoning while cooking.
If you have any further doubts, you can contact your veterinarian before adding eggs to your dog’s diet.
Let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions about feeding eggs to a dog:
Egg yolks contain fat that can be hard to digest for a dog with pancreatitis. You should consult with a veterinarian before adding eggs to your dog’s diet if they have any existing health conditions.
Although eggshells are safe for a dog, you shouldn’t feed them while they are still on the egg. Remove the shells and crush them into small pieces or grind them to make a powder before feeding. It’ll make sure your dog is able to chew and digest the shells and it won’t cause a choking hazard.
Scrambled eggs are often recommended by veterinarians when a dog suffers from diarrhea as it’s easy to digest and packed with protein. But if your dog is suffering from a severe case of diarrhea, you should consult a veterinarian to provide them with proper care and the right diet.
Dogs can eat cooked eggs be it hard-boiled, scrambled, or fried. But the recipes need to be plain without any additional ingredients like salt, butter, spices, or other seasonings.
Most vets don’t recommend you to feed raw eggs to a dog since there is a risk that they might carry bacteria like salmonella and e. Coli.
The right amount and frequency of feeding eggs to your dog will depend on their age, weight, breed, existing health conditions, and nutritional requirements. You can consult your veterinarian to decide how often you can feed eggs to your dog.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6470839/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/evr_multi_eggs_for_pets2
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-eggs/
Carrots are a popular and healthy vegetable. In fact, you’ll often find yourselves snacking on some baby carrots while getting eyeballed by your dog. Before you share a few pieces with them, you will need to think about whether or not carrots are safe for them.
The short answer is yes, carrots are perfectly safe for a dog. It’s a low-calorie and nutrient-packed vegetable that can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet.
But how exactly will a carrot benefit your dog's health? Let’s find the answer to this question by discussing the 7 amazing benefits of carrots.
Here are 7 ways in which carrots can help your dog stay healthy:
Carrots contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Each of these has amazing benefits for your dog’s digestive system.
Insoluble fibers are the ones that don’t dissolve in water but instead help attract water into your dog’s intestines which soften the stool. This can relieve constipation and improve the dog’s bowel health.
Soluble fiber, on the other hand, dissolves in water to aid digestion and adds weight to the stool to reduce diarrhea. It also acts as a prebiotic that supports fermentation and production of short-chain fatty acids. These acids can reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in your dog’s gut, protect the gut lining, boost their immune system, and help their body absorb nutrients.
But to make sure your dog can get all the benefits of fiber, you need to monitor their intake. Too much fiber can lead to an upset stomach and issues like gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. To avoid this situation, feed them the right amount of carrots and ensure they drink a lot of water as it’ll assist the fiber through the digestive system.
Dog parents often struggle to keep the dog's teeth and mouth clean. But its importance cannot be neglected as poor dental hygiene can cause plaque and bacteria buildup that can lead to pain in their gums, periodontal disease, and can affect their heart and kidney.
Apart from brushing, it’s highly recommended that you add dental treats or chews to your dog's diet. Food items like carrots can act as excellent dental chews. Munching on raw or frozen carrots can help scrape away tartar residues, prevent plaque buildups, and improve the overall dental health of your dog.
Also if you have a puppy who has started teething, you can give them cold or frozen carrots to reduce their discomfort and pain.
Carrots contain antioxidants like lutein and beta-carotene, which can improve the health of the dog’s eye. Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A and travels through the bloodstream to the retina of the dog’s eye.
The retina is made up of cells called rods and cones that are sensitive to light and use vitamin A to communicate with the brain about what the dog is seeing. While rods process light in low-light situations, cone cells do this in the daytime. Thus vitamin A helps improve vision and prevents night blindness in dogs. It can also reduce the possibility of developing cataracts.
As mentioned above, carrots are rich in beta-carotene. It’s an antioxidant that gets absorbed by the dog's intestine and transported to the liver. Here it gets combined with fats and converted to vitamin A. When required, the dog’s body releases this vitamin through the bloodstream to various parts of the body.
Apart from improving vision, vitamin A supports bone development and keeps the dog’s coat and skin healthy. It also supports the immune system by creating white blood cells that help the body locate foreign invaders and cellular irregularities. Thus protecting the dog’s body from infections caused by viruses and bacteria.
But you have to be careful since vitamin A is an essential nutrient, it’s present in almost every commercially produced dog food. To avoid surplus, it’s important that you talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s vitamin A requirements and monitor their intake.
Including everything that we talked about, carrots also contain vitamin K, vitamin C, B, D, and E. It’s also rich in calcium, niacin, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Each of these nutrients has various important functions that support the overall health of your dog.
Vitamin K helps metabolize calcium into the bones and prevents calcium deposits in the heart and arteries. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that can reduce inflammation and cognitive aging in dogs.
Unlike humans, dogs cannot synthesize vitamin D from direct sunlight. That's why they rely on their diets to get this vitamin. Without it their bodies will not be able to absorb calcium and phosphate.
Other nutrients like calcium support the growth of healthy bone and potassium which is an electrolyte that supports the functioning of electrical charges in the dog’s heart, nerves, and muscles
It would be safe to say that adding carrots to your dog’s diet offers them various nutritional benefits that will supplement their everyday meals.
Dog parents are constantly on the lookout for healthy and nutritious treats for their pups. Carrots are a great option as you can simply chop and feed them to your dog as treats throughout the day.
The calorie content of carrots is very low and it's chock full of nutrients. This is especially beneficial for dogs who are overweight or diabetic. Carrots won’t mess with their body’s weight and provide them with many essential vitamins and minerals.
A lesser-known benefit of carrots is that it is a rich source of antioxidants. It contains beta-carotene, which we discussed above, and other antioxidants like phytonutrients. These are anti-inflammatory and will help protect the cells in a dog’s body from the damaging effect of free radicals - a byproduct of normal cell function. Free radicals can also develop in a dog’s body when they consume oxidized fats or get exposed to pollution and toxins like herbicides, pesticides, etc. They can damage your dog’s nervous and immune systems.
Thus antioxidants help boost the immune system and can reduce the risk of several diseases. They also help promote healthy aging by assisting muscle strength in older dogs.
Carrots, similar to any other treat, need to be served in moderation. It’s a low-calorie and nutrition-rich vegetable that also contains high levels of fiber and natural sugar. Adding too much fiber to your dog’s diet can result in various digestive problems including gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
Too much sugar, on the other hand, can cause obesity and tooth decay. It can have adverse effects on dogs who are already suffering from diabetes.
Hence it’s important that you feed the right amount of carrots to your dog. Consider it as a supplement to a healthy and well-balanced diet.
The ideal number will obviously depend on your dog’s breed, age, weight, and height. But you can ensure that the total intake of carrots doesn’t surpass 5-10% of their daily calorie intake.
Furthermore, it’s recommended that you talk to your veterinarian to determine the right amount of carrots you can safely feed your dog. They’ll also guide you better depending on your dog’s prior health concerns.
While some dogs might love to chew on a carrot, others can turn up their nose. If your dog is a fussy eater, chances are they’ll refuse to eat carrots because of its taste or smell.
In such cases, you’ll have to use some tricks to make them eat this nutritious vegetable. Some of the most popular are safe methods of feeding carrots to your dog include:
A raw carrot has a wall of cellulose that isn’t digestible by a dog. It can also prevent the dog’s body from fully absorbing the nutrients present in a carrot. By steaming carrots before feeding you can partially dissolve the cellulose walls to ensure your dog intakes all the vitamin and nutrient benefits of the vegetable.
Also before steaming make sure you properly wash the carrots to remove any dirt and pesticides and chop it into small pieces to avoid choking. Once steamed, you can either feed the carrots on its own or add it as a topper to their daily meal.
If you prefer to make a carrot puree for your dog, you can simply boil and blend the vegetable. Make sure you don’t add any other ingredients like salts or spices for taste. These could be harmful to your dog.
This is not a popular method of feeding carrots to dogs because people often believe boiling reduces the nutritional value. In reality, boiling has different effects on different nutrients.
Vitamin C, B, and potassium are all water-soluble nutrients that get drained and lost during the process of boiling. However, vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble that aren’t affected by boiling.
That being said, carrot puree can be a good option for puppies who haven’t begun teething or older toothless dogs. You can also freeze carrot puree in an ice tray to serve on a hot summer day.
For fussy eaters, people often prefer to cook carrot dishes or simply roast them in some olive oil before serving. While this is a safe method to prepare carrots for a dog, you cannot do this every day.
Feeding too many roasted carrots to your dog can increase their consumption of oils that aren’t healthy in the long run. Plus cooked carrots have significantly lesser nutritional value as compared to steamed carrots.
Another thing to note is that you should not feed cooked carrots that contain any additional ingredients. So if you made a carrot dish for yourself, you should avoid serving that to your dog.
If your puppy has begun teething, you can give them frozen carrots to ease their pain and discomfort. You can either buy frozen carrots that don’t contain any additional ingredients or freeze some at home.
It’s also advisable that you cut carrots into small round pieces to avoid choking.
Even if you have an adult dog, you can serve them frozen carrots on hot days as a cold treat. It will act as a dental chew that’ll help remove tartar residues and prevent plaque buildups.
Although steamed carrots are a better option, you can still feed raw carrots to your dog. If you’re munching on some baby carrots, you can share them with your dog too. But make sure you cut them into small round pieces to avoid choking.
The good thing is that every part of the carrot including the vegetable, stalks, and green leaves present on the top is safe to consume for a dog. So if you’re in a hurry you can simply wash, cut, and feed raw carrots to your dog. You can even grate some raw carrots over their daily meal.
The important thing is to properly wash and lightly scrub the outer surface of the carrot to remove dirt, pesticides, or other preservatives present on top.
While we are discussing some great ways to feed carrots to a dog, let’s also talk about some harmful and unhealthy ways of feeding carrots to a dog.
Canned carrots are safe but unhealthy for a dog. They generally contain a lot of sodium and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health.
You can feed them canned carrots only once in a while, but not every day.
This is another example of a carrot dish that is safe yet unhealthy for a dog. Honey contains a high amount of natural sugar that can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay. It would be best that you avoid feeding honey-glazed carrots to your dog.
Carrot cake that’s made especially for dogs is generally safe to eat as an occasional treat. Although there would be low to zero nutritional value of this food item.
On the other hand, carrot cakes that we make or buy for ourselves are not safe for dogs. These recipes contain many additional ingredients like raisins, walnuts, macadamia nuts, natural sugar like xylitol, or even chocolate that can be toxic to your dog’s health.
Carrot in itself is a healthy vegetable for dogs. But there are some precautionary measures you should take to ensure your dog stays safe and healthy.
Firstly, avoid feeding large chunks of carrots to your dog. These can get stuck in their throat causing them to choke. Always cut carrots into small round pieces that are easy to chew and digest.
Secondly, monitor your dog’s nutrition requirements. Carrots are a treat that should be served in moderation. It contains a high level of fiber and natural sugar. Plus it’s also rich in beta-carotene that’s a precursor of vitamin A. This is an essential vitamin that’s present in many commercial dog-food items.
If you feed too many carrots to your dog, it can lead to vitamin A surplus, digestive issues, and high blood sugar levels.
Lastly, while feeding cooked carrots to your dog, make sure there aren’t any additional ingredients added to the recipe. Carrots made for human consumption generally contain salt and seasoning that can be harmful to a dog.
Always feed your dog carrots that are made especially for them or simply stick to raw or steamed carrots.
Carrots are a healthy vegetable for a dog. When served in moderation, it can help improve their digestive health, eyesight, oral hygiene, immune system, and overall growth.
Just make sure you take care of all the precautions mentioned above and avoid overfeeding. If in case, you have any further doubts regarding your dog’s health, you should consult your veterinarian before adding carrots to your dog’s diet.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about feeding carrots to a dog:
Carrots are a supplement to a healthy and well-balanced diet and should be served in moderation. The total intake shouldn’t exceed 5-10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake.
You can consult a veterinarian to determine the right amount of carrots to feed your dog.
Although it’s safe to feed carrots to a dog every day, you will have to monitor their vitamin A and fiber intake to avoid nutrient imbalance.
You can feed carrots to a dog at any age. When they are toothless puppies, you can make carrot puree and feed frozen carrots when they start teething. For an adult dog, steamed or raw carrots are a great option.
Yes, you can feed carrots to a dog when they have diarrhea. It contains soluble fibers that help to add weight to loose stool and reduce diarrhea.
But make sure you feed carrots in moderation as it also contains insoluble fibers
It is safe to feed carrots to a dog with pancreatitis. But it’s recommended that you talk to a veterinarian before making any changes to the diet of a dog who is suffering from prior health conditions.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
https://wildearth.com/blogs/dog-knowledge/carrots-for-dogs
https://nativepet.com/blogs/health/can-dogs-eat-carrots
https://www.thesprucepets.com/are-carrots-safe-for-dogs-4628454
Leading vet
Can you imagine what your teeth would look like if you never brushed them? Not pretty that’s for sure! So, what about your dogs’ teeth? Like us, dogs need routine dental care.
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 75% of dogs over the age of four have dental disease. In fact, dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions we see in dogs. This should come as no surprise. Most people do not brush their dog’s teeth, and we all know that our dogs are not brushing their own teeth.
Dental disease doesn’t just lead to bad doggy breath, it can lead to tooth loss, painful tooth root abscesses, difficulty eating, and other serious health problems.
The combination of food, saliva, and bacteria leads to plaque formation. If not removed by brushing, it mineralizes and becomes tartar. Tartar accumulation promotes bacterial infections below the gumline, which results in gum recession and destruction of the tooth’s support structures. Unless treated, pain and tooth loss can occur and bacteria can enter the blood stream and spread to distant organs, like the kidney, liver and heart.
Dental disease can occur at any age, but it is more common in older dogs and certain dog breeds. Chihuahuas, Dachshunds and toy breeds appear to have a genetic predisposition for dental disease and often develop dental issues earlier than other breeds.
Make sure your dog is seeing their veterinarian at least once a year. If they are older than 7 years they should have routine check-ups twice a year. During these check-ups your veterinarian will do an oral exam and be able to detect if your dog has any dental disease. In between these visits you should ideally be checking your dog’s mouth regularly as well. Flip your dog’s lip and take a close look at your dog’s gums. Are they red and swollen? Next look at their teeth. Are they clean and white or do you see brown discoloration, thick tartar on the teeth? Do you see any broken teeth? Do they have bad breath? Do you see any drooling or have you noticed them having trouble eating? If you notice any of these things (swollen gums, broken teeth, tarter buildup) it means that your dog has dental disease and should see their veterinarian as soon as possible for a full oral examination.
Dental disease in dogs is diagnosed by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of your dog’s mouth and may recommend dental x-rays to determine if your dog has a tooth root abscess, retained tooth root, or a diseased tooth that needs to be extracted.
If your dog already has dental disease a complete dental cleaning by your veterinarian is necessary. This involves an evaluation of the oral cavity and cleaning not only the surface of the teeth, but underneath the gumline where the majority of bacteria and tartar are found. After the teeth are cleaned, they are polished to smooth the roughened surfaces that were created by the cleaning. Next, an antibacterial solution is flushed below the gumline to remove any debris that collected after the scaling and polishing. Lastly the entire mouth is checked again, and dental x-rays will likely be used to assess the extent of the dental disease and the need for any tooth extractions or additional work. Even though most people can tolerate and sit through a thorough dental cleaning, dogs can’t. The only way to perform a complete dental cleaning in dogs is by using general anesthesia.
For many dog parents, the thought of placing their beloved dogs under general anesthesia is scarier than the actual cleaning. So, what about a non-anesthetic dental cleaning? It is important to know that it is currently illegal for anyone other than a veterinarian or a supervised and trained veterinary technician to perform a dental cleaning. Even when done by a trained professional, there are risks with non-anesthetic dentals. Animals with dental disease often have painful mouths. Without anesthesia, an animal may experience pain and move during the cleaning. This can be dangerous since many of the instruments used are quite sharp and can hurt the animal if it jerks during the procedure. However, the biggest issue with non-anesthetic dental cleanings is that the cleanings are superficial and do not address the tartar under the gumline where the majority of dental disease resides. For these reasons, both the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) and the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) do not recommend non-anesthetic dental cleanings.
So how can you make the anesthetic dental safer? Pre-anesthetic bloodwork and chest x-rays are used to screen for underlying medical issues. Although anesthesia can never be risk free, the use of modern gas anesthetics such as sevoflurane and isoflurane, sophisticated monitoring equipment, as well as intravenous catheters and IV fluids have greatly improved the safety of general anesthesia. Your veterinarian will need to look at your dog’s individual risks versus the benefits of dental care and advise you appropriately.
The best way to prevent dental disease is to brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Ideally you want to start brushing your dog’s teeth when they are young so that they become used to the routine. Young dogs also have clean healthy teeth and will get used to brushing if you start when they are young, just like nail trims. Dogs should have their teeth brushed daily or at the very least a few times a week. It is important to use a dog-safe toothpaste and not toothpaste intended for people. Dog-safe toothpaste does not bubble or foam and does not require your dog to rinse their mouth out afterwards. And they come in exciting flavors like chicken, beef, seafood and peanut butter. Yum, right?
Brushing is easier than you might think. I recommend you start by using your fingers. Put dog toothpaste on them, let your dog lick it off and then gently hold your dog’s mouth closed (to prevent them from accidentally pinching your finger) and slowly and gently use your finger to rub the outside of their teeth in a circular motion. Try doing this for a few days to get them used to it, then try using a finger brush or dog toothbrush. Remember reward your dogs afterwards by letting them lick the remaining paste off the toothbrush or give them a dental chew as a reward.
Ideally you should brush your dog’s teeth once a day. I try to brush my dogs’ teeth every night after I brush my teeth. If you just cannot manage daily brushing, try to brush their teeth a few times a week or at the very least weekly. Remember the more you brush your dog’s teeth, the less likely they will develop dental disease.
NO! If your dog already has significant dental disease, brushing is not recommended. Brushing your dog’s teeth may cause your dog pain. Swollen red gums are inflamed will be tender and are likely to bleed if brushed. The best thing to do for a dog with dental disease is to have a dental cleaning by a veterinarian to remove the tarter and bacteria. Once the teeth are clean and the gums are healthy, your veterinarian will recommend you start brushing.
Although nothing beats regular brushing, oral wipes, dental diets and dental treats can help reduce the bacteria and plaque that lead to tartar formation. Nowadays you can find all kinds and flavors of dental chews. These chews usually have ridges and textured grooves that help keep your dog’s teeth clean and reduce plaque and tarter. In addition, they often contain ingredients that reduce bacteria. Most importantly to your dogs, they are a delicious treat. My dog loves getting a dental chew and I love that he is getting dog treat that’s good for his teeth.
No matter what you choose, be consistent and see your veterinarian regularly for check-ups. Remember, dogs should have their teeth checked at least once a year and if you notice your dog has bad breath, trouble eating, has excessive drooling or red inflamed gums call your veterinarian to schedule an appointment sooner. If your dog already has dental disease a complete dental cleaning is necessary. Remember early diagnosis and treatment are the best defense against serious dental disease.
Apples are a popular mid-day snack. We even love to savor this fruit in our salads, smoothies, and pies. The global admiration for apples can be affiliated with its multiple health benefits. In fact, apples are one of the healthiest fruits you can eat.
But can you share this crunchy treat with your dog? Let’s find out…
Yes, apples are safe for dogs. This sweet and filling fruit has many health benefits for our furry friends. They are chock-full of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that help promote good health and wellness.
To learn precisely how an apple benefits your dog, let’s discuss the 5 most significant advantages of feeding apples to a dog.
Apples contain both soluble and insoluble fibers that aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements that prevent constipation and diarrhea.
Fiber is also great for your dog’s gut health. The fermentation of fiber in a dog’s gut produces short-chain fatty acids. These acids act as an energy source for the epithelial cells that line the gut. Healthy epithelial cells ensure proper digestion of food and absorption of nutrients.
Also, more than half of the fiber in an apple is made of a substance called pectin. This is a prebiotic that helps feed the good bacteria and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
Another benefit of adding fiber-rich food to your dog’s diet is that it encourages weight loss. Obesity is a growing concern for dogs and can lead to many serious illnesses. Fiber can help make your dog feel fuller and satisfied in between their meals.
Apples are a healthy source of vitamins that can supplement your dog’s diet. The complete breakdown includes:
This is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that can help improve your dog’s vision and keep their skin and coat healthy. It also supports cell growth, boosts the immune system, and promotes brain and skeletal development.
This vitamin is crucial for strengthening the immune system, promoting collagen synthesis, and healthy aging in dogs. In fact, dogs, like most mammals, can synthesize vitamin C on their own inside the liver. But various environmental stressors like growth, injuries, vaccinations, relocation, etc can cause vitamin C depletion.
By feeding them fruits like apples that are rich in vitamin C, you can help ensure they meet their daily nutritional requirements and lead a happy and healthy life.
This is another fat-soluble vitamin that helps metabolize calcium into the bones of your dog. It prevents calcium from depositing in the heart and arteries. Vitamin K is also essential to promote proper blood clotting that allows wounds to heal. Without this function, even the smallest wounds would continue to bleed and become fatal.
Apples contain calcium, phosphorus, manganese, and potassium. All of which are essential nutrients that should be included in your dog’s diet to support a healthy and balanced meal.
Calcium and phosphorus play a vital role in supporting your dog’s bones and teeth. Whereas manganese protects the cell’s energy and helps metabolize protein and carbohydrates. Potassium is a macro-mineral that is known to support your dog’s kidney, heart, and muscle function.
Apples contain antioxidants that help protect your dog’s body from oxidation or free radical damage including joint and arthritis problems. Antioxidants can also improve immune system activity and help your dog fight allergies.
A puppy requires antioxidants to remove toxins and germs from their body and an adult dog needs antioxidants to power its muscles and minimize inflammation.
Apples contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps improve a dog’s joint health and immune system. It also contains polyphenols, a type of plant compound and a strong antioxidant that can help reduce the risk of many cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
It’s very important to keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy. Bad dental health can lead to tooth loss, bad breath, oral pain, and other illnesses.
An apple contains malic acid, which is known to help create excess saliva in a dog’s mouth. This reduces the amount of bacteria growth and infections in their mouth. It not only prevents bad breath but also helps strengthen their teeth.
But bear in mind that apples cannot substitute brushing and basic oral hygiene practices.
Your dog can get an allergic reaction to anything from its surroundings. The constant itchiness that comes with allergies can make any dog miserable. In such a case, apple can be a natural and safe option that can help fight off the harmful effects of allergies.
Apples contain quercetin, a flavonoid, that is often used to reduce itchiness, inflammation, redness, and other discomfort caused by allergies.
But it’s important to note that if your dog is suffering from an allergic reaction, you should consult your veterinarian to get proper treatment and medication. Quercetin-rich fruits like apples should be considered as an extra anti-allergy boost.
Now that you know how beneficial it is to feed apples to your dog, you must be excited to get started. But what is the right way to feed apples to your dog? Is it safe for them to consume a raw apple? Let’s find out.
You can feed a raw apple to your dog, in fact, it’s the healthiest way. Even dogs love eating raw apples because of their crunchy texture.
To get started, always wash and scrub the apples to remove germs and bacteria. Many sellers even add a layer of wax on the apple skin to make it look glossy and appealing. Washing ensures all these toxic layers are removed completely.
Then you can cut the apples into small chunks depending on your dog’s size. Make sure you don’t feed them big pieces as they can cause a choking hazard.
Also when you’re cutting an apple, remove the seeds, stem, and core. Apple seeds contain some amounts of cyanide. If your dog accidentally consumes a few seeds it won’t be fatal but consuming a large number of seeds or a small amount regularly can cause cyanide poisoning.
The core of the apple is hard and big in size making it difficult to chew and swallow. It’s recommended that you always remove the core to avoid choking hazards for your dog.
The skin of the apple, however, is completely safe to eat and in fact, it contains many vitamins, fibers, and antioxidants like polyphenols that can support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
You can feed plain applesauce to your dog. The ones that are readily available in stores generally contain high levels of sugars, artificial flavors, colors, and other preservatives. All of these ingredients can be toxic for your dog.
You should be able to find brands that make dog-friendly unsweetened applesauce that’s free from fillers and preservatives. Or another great option is to make it at home.
To make your own applesauce all you have to do is wash and cut apples into small chunks. Remember to remove the seeds, stem, and core. You can leave the skin on and start cooking the apples in a large pot or slow cooker.
To make the applesauce even more nutritious and appealing to your dog, you can replace water with bone broth that’s safe for dogs. Once the mixture reaches a puree-like consistency, take it off the stove, allow it to cool down and then store it in an air-tight container.
You can feed this homemade applesauce on its own or mix it in with their regular kibble diet to add moisture. In summers, you can even freeze applesauce to make popsicle sticks.
Apple pie is a signature comfort food that's loved by people everywhere. But it’s not a dish that you should share with your dog.
Apple pie contains many ingredients including nutmeg that can pose a serious health risk for your dog. Even the most basic apple pie recipes contain large quantities of butter, sugar, and fat that can lead to an upset stomach.
Apple chips are simply dehydrated apple slices that can be a low-calorie treat for your dog. They do retain all the vitamins and antioxidants but no real fiber. The store-bought apple chips also contain a high amount of sugar. Hence its safe to feed apple chips to your dog, but it’s healthier to stick to raw apples.
Before you start feeding apples to your dog, let’s also talk about some precautionary measures that will help you reap the maximum benefits without any health concerns.
Apples are filled with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that can help support the overall well-being of your dog. But it’s a fruit that should be used only as a supplement to a well-balanced diet.
The right portion size of apples you can feed your dog will depend on their breed, weight, age, and health condition. But ideally you should only feed 1 or 2 slices of an apple per day.
Remember that apples contain natural sugars, starch, and fiber that can negatively affect a dog’s health if they consume too much in one sitting. Overindulgence can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pains.
Furthermore, it’s important that you introduce apples to your dog’s diet gradually and in moderation. Monitor their reaction for a few hours if they’re eating an apple for the first time. If you see any symptoms of an allergic reaction like itching, coughing, sneezing, etc contact your veterinarian immediately.
If your dog responds well, you can start feeding them apples regularly but in moderation.
Puppies can enjoy apples just like an adult dog. You might have to cut the apples into smaller chunks to make them easier to chew for a puppy.
Remove the seeds, stem, and core as they can be dangerous for a dog. It’s also recommended that you peel the apple skin before feeding because it can feel thick and tough to chew and can get stuck in a puppy's throat.
If they’re eating an apple for the very first time, just feed them a small piece and monitor their response for an allergic reaction. If they experience any digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea, refrain from feeding them more apples and get in touch with your veterinarian.
Apples that are sold in grocery stores or supermarkets are often treated with pesticides and coated with a layer of wax to look shiny. You can remove the layer of wax by properly washing and scrubbing the apple before eating.
But if you wish to avoid any possible pesticide contamination, buy organic apples for your dog.
Amongst the many health benefits, apples also have certain drawbacks. They contain a lot of natural sugar and although your dog might love the taste of sugar it can cause problems for dogs who suffer from diabetes or obesity.
Hence if your dog is suffering from any prior health condition, you should consult your veterinarian before making any changes in their diet and feeding them apples.
Apple is one of the healthiest fruits you can add to your dog’s diet. The nutrients, vitamins, and minerals present in apples can help reduce the risk of certain diseases, fight inflammation, improve vision, support digestive health, and strengthen the immune system.
But just like every other food, moderation is the key. Feed the right amount of apples to your dog and use it only as a supplement to a well-balanced diet.
If you have any further doubts, you can consult your veterinarian before feeding apples to your dog.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about feeding apples to a dog:
Yes, dogs can eat green apples. In fact, just like red apples, green apples are also nutritious and vitamin-rich fruits that have many health benefits for a dog.
Yes, a dog can eat apples with skin. But remember to properly wash and scrub the apple to remove germs, bacteria, and wax-layer.
The skin or peel of the apple contains fiber and antioxidants like polyphenols that are healthy for a dog’s body. However, if you’re feeding apples to a puppy, you should remove the apple skin as it can be hard to chew and can get stuck in their throat.
It’s not safe to feed crab apples to your dog. It contains a high amount of cyanide that can lead to an upset stomach or other health complications including reduced blood oxygen and decreased heart rate.
No, you shouldn’t feed apple pie to your dog. It contains additional ingredients like nutmeg, a high amount of butter, and sugar, that can be harmful to your dog.
Apples and peanut butter are both safe for a dog. However, peanut butter often contains an ingredient called xylitol, which is harmful to a dog. If you want to feed it to your dog you should buy peanut butter that doesn’t contain added preservatives and xylitol.
Additionally, peanut butter is sweet and can increase the blood sugar level and fat of your dog. If your dog is suffering from diabetes or obesity, try to refrain from feeding them peanut butter.
Dogs can eat 1 to 2 slices of apples every day. However, try to keep rotating apples with other dog-friendly fruits like bananas, cranberries, or watermelon. This way your pet will reap various health benefits that come with different fruits and they will not get bored with the same snack.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-care/can-dogs-eat-apples/
https://thismessisours.com/can-dogs-eat-apples/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/can-dogs-eat-apples
https://usatoday.com/story/news/2022/07/03/can-dogs-eat-apples-fruits-safe/7756379001/
Lamb has been gaining popularity in America, in part because it's a delicious and highly nutritious meat that contains many vitamins and minerals. But is lamb meat healthy for our furry friend?
Absolutely, yes! Lamb is a safe and healthy meat that you can feed to your dog. Continue reading to find out its many health benefits and how to share this delicious protein with your dog.
Below are 3 reasons why you should include lamb in your dog’s diet.
Lamb, just like every other meat, is primarily composed of protein. A 100g serving of lamb has around 24g of protein. Plus, it contains all nine essential amino acids making it a high-quality source of protein for your dog that can help build and maintain muscles.
Including lamb meat in your dog’s diet will also help maintain and repair their cells, support the immune system, and promote the growth of hormones and healthy enzymes.
Lamb is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids act as an anti-inflammatory and protect your dog against inflammation or damage from free radicals. It helps relieve itchiness, dryness, and skin allergies by supporting the skin and coat health of your dog.
Apart from that, omega-3 fatty acids also have a wide range of health benefits as they help support the dog’s immune system, heart, and kidneys. It’s also highly beneficial if your dog suffers from arthritis or other chronic pain conditions.
Lamb contains many important vitamins and minerals that are required for vital body functions. It’s particularly rich in B vitamins as it contains vitamin B3 (niacin) which helps break down fatty acids to produce energy, vitamin B6 which helps the body form hemoglobin, and vitamin B12 which is crucial for a healthy nervous system.
On the minerals side, lamb provides iron in form of heme iron which is highly bioavailable and better absorbed by the dog’s body. It’s an essential mineral that is directly involved in the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin.
Lamb is also rich in phosphorous that supports healthy kidney and motor functions. It also contains zinc which is an antioxidant that supports healthy skin and coat and strengths your dog’s immune system.
There are various ways in which you can incorporate this delicious red meat into your dog’s diet. Let's discuss 3 of the most popular ways in which you can feed lamb to your dog at home:
One of the most convenient ways to feed this protein is to buy high-quality dog food that already contains lamb and/or lamb meal.
The main difference between these two ingredients is how they are processed. Lamb on the ingredient label refers to de-boned muscle meat that comes from the animal, similar to what you would find in a grocery store. Lamb meal refers to muscle meat, organ meat, and some bone that has been cooked, dried, and ground. This makes lamb meal a good source of protein and minerals like calcium.
Dogs can eat and digest raw lamb although most vets advise against it. This is because it may contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E.Coli, and more.
Most vets also advise against raw lamb for dogs who have developing or weakened immune systems and dogs who suffer from digestive issues or sensitive stomachs.
Cooked lamb is a safe and healthy option for a dog. But make sure while cooking you don’t add any seasoning to the meat as it can be harmful to your dog’s health.
You can cook ground lamb with rice and some dog-friendly vegetables or boil some meat chunks and add them as a topper to their kibble diet to make it more appetizing.
From bones to liver and heart, let’s discuss what parts of a lamb are safe for a dog:
While some bones are safer to give to your dog than others, it's often recommended to avoid giving raw bones to your dog as it could splinter and there’s also a risk of bacteria.
If you still want to feed a raw bone to your dog, you should only feed them a bone that is bigger than their snout. Also, ensure the bone is clean and free of harmful bacteria. Don't leave the dog unattended with the bone as they can easily choke or hurt themselves.
And what about cooked lamb bones? Cooked bones can break and splinter more easily causing injury to your dog. It can hurt their mouth and tongue or cause serious internal injury by piercing the esophagus or intestine. Thus you should always avoid giving cooked lamb bones to your dog.
If you want your dog to get the most nutrients from the lamb bones, try making a lamb bone broth at home. You can also add vegetables to the recipe to make the broth more nutritious. But don’t add any seasoning or harmful ingredients like onion and garlic to the recipe.
You can feed this bone broth to your dog when they are sick or add it to their regular diet to make it more appetizing.
You should never feed lamb fat that's present on the outside of the cut of meat to your dog. Whenever you are cooking lamb at home, make sure you cut off the skin and exterior fat. It isn’t healthy for their body and can cause diarrhea and might even trigger pancreatitis.
Although the marbling of fat within the piece of lamb is safe for a dog.
Lamb's liver is a safe and healthy option for your dog as it contains a high amount of vitamin A, vitamins B2, B9, B12, copper, and iron. You can chop the liver into small pieces and cook it with lamb meat. Avoid feeding raw liver as it might contain bacteria and parasites.
Also, try feeding lamb liver as an occasional treat as overindulgence can lead to a vitamin A overdose.
Just like the liver, the lamb’s heart is also healthy and full of essential nutrients. You can cook and feed it to your dog as an occasional treat. But avoid feeding too much as the heart is relatively fatty and can lead to an upset stomach.
Lamb is perfectly safe for a dog but in moderation. Too much of any food, even protein-rich meat, can be harmful to their health. They need a healthy and well-balanced diet that contains protein with other essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
It’s also important to know that some cuts of lamb contain more fat than others and eating fatty meat regularly can irritate a dog’s stomach, especially if they’re small or suffer from digestive issues.
Furthermore, when feeding lamb to your dog, you should also be cautious about an allergic reaction. Look for the following signs of an allergic reaction:
If you notice any of these signs of lamb allergy, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Lamb is a delicious and nutritious red meat you can feed to your dog. It’s a high-quality source of protein that contains omega-3 fatty acids and many other essential nutrients. They work together to boost the immune system, promote healthy skin and coat, and support the overall growth and well-being of a dog.
You can easily buy dog food and treats that contain lamb or cook some meat at home. But it’s recommended to avoid feeding raw lamb to your dog as it might contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and more. The same goes for lamb bones as they can also contain bacteria or they can splinter and cause injury to your dog’s mouth and internal organs.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about feeding lamb to your dog.
Many vets advise against feeding raw lamb to a dog. There’s a risk that it might contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and more.
No, you should never feed cooked lamb bones to your dog. It can easily break and splinter causing injury to your dog's mouth or tongue. It can even cause a serious internal injury by piercing the esophagus or intestine.
Yes, your dog can eat lamb shank. It’s a cut from the bottom section of the lamb’s leg. You can buy lamb shanks, cut off the fatty trimmings, cook the meat without any seasoning, and add it to your dog's meal.
Yes, your dog can eat lamb organs like liver, kidney, and heart but in small amounts. Also, make sure you only feed cooked lamb organs as the raw ones might contain harmful bacteria.
If you still have any further doubts or questions, contact your veterinarian before adding lamb to your dog’s diet.
Sources:
https://www.purepetfood.com/help/can-dogs-eat-lamb
https://addictionpet.com/blog/why-feed-lamb-for-your-dogs-health-benefits-and-more/
https://www.shepherdsongfarm.com/grass-fed-grass-farming/health-benefits-grass-fed/
Leading vet
Americans are obsessed with weight loss. Just look at the latest fad diet, exercise trend, “fat burning” supplement, or prescription weight loss drug. Considering that 65% of Americans are overweight, this infatuation with getting slim is not all that surprising. Unfortunately, many people overlook the fact that their own pets need to lose weight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 50% of dogs are overweight. Although an overweight pet may look cute, it is not healthy.
Just like in people, being overweight makes your pet more likely to develop a number of different medical conditions. Overweight pets are at risk for developing arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, respiratory and heart disease, and some forms of cancer. Compared to normal weight dogs, overweight dogs live shorter lives.
Why do dogs become overweight? Unlike people, our dogs can’t order a supersized Big Mac meal at McDonald’s or drink a 590 calorie Starbucks Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino. The answer is simple: our dogs are overweight primarily because we feed them too much. Besides eating too much at mealtime, dogs can also gain weight from treats. Treats add empty calories that add up quickly, especially if they are given frequently. Finally, the other side of the weight gain equation is exercise. Our dogs are overweight because they are not active enough for the amount of food they eat. An active dog has a higher caloric demand and can stay trim even if they eat “a lot.”
How do you know if your pet needs to lose a few pounds? First, you should be able to easily feel but not necessarily see your pet’s ribs and spine. While looking from above, you should see a waist, and while looking from the side, you should see the abdomen tucked up. This hourglass figure is desirable not just with swimsuit models but with our pets as well. If you suspect that your pet may be overweight, your pet should have a complete physical examination by a veterinarian before initiating any diet plans. Your veterinarian will not only give you an objective opinion about your pet’s weight, but they will also ensure that your pet’s obesity is due to excess calories and not an underlying medical condition.
If you aren’t sure if your dog is overweight, you should check with your veterinarian. In addition to weighing your pet, your veterinarian will determine their body condition score by examining their appearance from above, from the side, and by palpating their ribs, spine, and other bony prominences. The body condition score ranges from 1 to 9, with 1 being very thin, 9 obese, and 5 being ideal. If your dog is overweight, your veterinarian will help you develop a diet plan and most importantly make sure your dog doesn’t appear overweight because of a medical condition.
Some pets that are overweight have medical conditions. For example, hypothyroid disease, a condition where the body fails to produce thyroid hormone, which helps control metabolism, can cause a pet to become overweight. The good news is this is a manageable condition in pets just like it is in humans. In addition, some medical issues can cause a pet to look overweight, when in fact they are not. Heart disease and some types of cancer can cause ascites, a condition where the abdomen fills up with fluid. This causes pets to look like they have a large belly. Cushing’s disease is another condition that also causes affected pets to have a bloated stomach. That’s why it is important to always have your veterinarian check your pet before starting a diet. In addition to ruling out medical issues, your veterinarian will help you determine your dog’s goal weight.
The key to helping your dog lose weight safely is to have a plan. Ask your veterinarian to develop a program to help your dog reach their ideal weight. The main treatment for obesity consists of decreasing caloric intake and increasing physical activity.
Once you determine that your dog is overweight you will want to examine their current diet. What food are they eating? How much and how often are they eating? Do they get treats? How many and what? Table scraps? Do they have access to another pet’s food?
Most commercially available diets are formulated for the needs of active, intact dogs. To help your overweight, neutered, or spayed dog lose weight, most veterinarians recommend decreasing the amount of food and giving it in three separate meals. Another option is to switch to one of the many available low-calorie weight-loss diets or high protein, low carbohydrate diets. Speak with your veterinarian to find-out which option is best for your pet. Check with your veterinarian regularly to ensure that your dog is losing weight at an appropriate rate.
Once your pet’s ideal weight has been established, there are several ways to obtain this goal. The underlying principle is to decrease overall caloric intake. This can be accomplished by decreasing the quantity of food or by switching to a low-calorie diet. These diets allow you to feed your pet similar quantities of food, but by replacing fat with fiber they will get fewer overall calories. If you choose to change diets, be sure to switch foods gradually since abrupt food changes can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
Remember any calorie adds up. If your pet is eating the perfect amount of a well-balanced diet BUT they are also getting treats several times a day or helping themselves to another pet’s food bowl they are consuming excess calories. It is also important to remember that table scraps have calories, and these can add up quickly. Instead of rewarding your pet with a high calorie treat, use verbal praise, or offer them pet-safe fruits and veggies. Carrots make an excellent low calorie treat.
An important part of any weight loss regimen includes monitoring. Monitoring how much weight your pet is losing helps ensure that they are losing weight at a healthy rate and provides confirmation that your plan is working. This can be achieved with regular weigh-ins, ideally monthly. If your dog is not losing weight at the weigh-ins, it tells you that you need to change something about the weight-loss plan. On the other hand, seeing your dog’s progress can be motivating and help stick with the plan.
Lastly, just like people, pets need exercise. Exercise is an important part of the weight loss equation because it increases your dog’s metabolic rate. That means your dog is still “burning” calories even after they stop exercising.
Before starting an exercise regimen, check with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy enough and to formulate an exercise plan. Some breeds, like the brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds (pugs, bulldogs, etc.) are exercise-intolerant. Running with large breed puppies should also be avoided since it can harm their growing bones and joints. Likewise, older dogs should avoid strenuous exercise that aggravates their arthritis.
There are many ways to increase your pet’s activity. One easy way to increase your dog’s activity is to go on walks. Going on a walk is a low impact exercise that can be adjusted to your pet’s fitness level. Just make the walk shorter if your dog is getting tired. Another reason to take your dog on a walk is the side benefit that walking has on the human walker.
Another fun way to increase your dog’s activity is to take them to your local dog-friendly park. Playing off-leash is a great way to burn calories. Some dogs love to play with other dogs by chasing each other or wrestling. Playing with other dogs is mentally and physically stimulating. If your dog is not a social butterfly, bring a frisbee or ball to play fetch. Playing fetch with your dog not only exercises them but also strengthens their bond to you. Taking your dog to a dog-friendly park is an easy and fun way to exercise your dog without breaking into a sweat.
If you are feeling extra motivated to become fitter yourself, you can also run with your dog. Just check with your veterinarian to be sure that your dog is healthy enough to run and their breed is conducive to running. Remember, some breeds, like brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, boxers) should never run for long distances. If possible, choose dirt trails which are easier on your dog’s, and your own joints. Start with shorter distances and gradually run longer distances to build endurance. Remember to avoid running when the weather is too hot since dogs are less heat-tolerant than people in general. Some breeds, like Vislas, Weimaraners, Dalmatians, and Dobermans are natural runners and can become your long-term running buddy. They are super athletes and will motivate you to run faster to keep up with them!
If your dog has arthritis and can’t run, there are other activities they can do. Swimming is an excellent exercise that will help your dog burn calories without putting stress on their joints. In fact, water physical therapy is often used to rehabilitate dogs after they undergo surgery.
Unlike other health problems, obesity can easily be prevented and treated because we control what our pets eat. As Dr. Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention sums it up, “Obesity is the greatest health threat our pets face today. What and how much you feed your dog is the most important decision you make each day regarding their health.” Start by taking your dog to the veterinarian to identify their ideal weight. Monitor their weight by weighing them regularly at home. Taking your dog to the veterinarian for routine visits will also ensure that your dog is at the right weight. Your veterinarian can also recommend the right diet for your dog’s metabolic needs. Finally, promote an active lifestyle by encouraging play and taking lots of long walks. Obesity is a serious problem, but you can help combat it by having fun with your dog and promoting active play.
A dog can become overweight if they consume more calories than they burn through daily activities and exercise. An inactive lifestyle, feeding them table scraps, giving them too many treats, and feeding them an unhealthy diet can also contribute to weight gain in dogs.
The best way to determine if a fluffy dog is overweight is to feel their ribs. If you cannot feel the ribs, then your dog is likely overweight. You can also check to see if there is a noticeable waist, if there is no waist, this is another indication of an overweight dog. But if you are unsure, remember you can always ask your veterinarian.
The fastest way for a dog to lose weight is to create a calorie deficit diet by reducing their food intake and increasing their physical activity. It is essential to do this under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure the weight loss is safe and gradual. Rapid weight loss can cause health problems and slow down the metabolism.
It's difficult to determine if a certain weight is overweight for a dog without knowing their breed, age, and activity level. The ideal weight range for a dog can vary based on these factors. It's best to consult a veterinarian to determine a healthy weight range for your specific dog.
The Body Condition Score (BCS) is a commonly used tool by veterinarians to assess if a dog is overweight or obese. BCS takes into account the dog's overall body shape, including their ribs, spine, waist, and belly. If your dog is overweight, your veterinarian will help you develop a diet plan and most importantly make sure your dog doesn’t appear overweight because of a medical condition.
For more than a thousand years, rice has been a staple food for humans. And not just that, the commercial dog food you buy for your pooch may also contain rice. In fact, if your pet has ever fallen sick, their veterinarian might have recommended a bland diet of white rice.
This is because white rice has multiple benefits for a dog’s health - it’s easy to digest and can even help to improve their digestive health.
But what about brown rice? A lot of people suggest that it’s a healthier alternative to white rice. But is it safe for your dog? Let’s find out…
The short answer is yes! Brown rice can be a safe and healthy supplement for your dog. It contains vitamin B and D that can support your dog’s metabolism and heart health, calcium and phosphorus that can help maintain strong bones, teeth, and ligaments, and magnesium which helps support muscle movement and energy production.
Brown rice also contains selenium which is an essential trace element that’s involved in thyroid function, reproduction, and antioxidant protection. It even contains manganese that can protect your dog’s body against free radicals.
Apart from these nutritional benefits, let’s also discuss 6 other amazing benefits of adding brown rice to your dog’s diet.
When compared to white rice, brown rice has a lower glycemic index. Hence it might be a better option for dogs who suffer from diabetes. Because low glycemic foods can help in reducing excess body weight and blood sugar. These may even help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart diseases.
Your dog needs carbs to fuel their body’s energy. The carbohydrates present in brown rice can help boost your dog's energy and improve cognitive functions.
Brown rice is a whole grain which means it's less refined and less processed than white rice. It contains every part of the grain including the fibrous bran, the nutritious germ, and the carb-rich endosperm.
If your dog suffers from sensitivities or allergies to gluten or other grains like corn or wheat, then brown rice might be a great option for them. It’s a gluten-free food, which can help your dog stay healthy and energetic.
Brown rice contains relatively few calories and is high in fiber. It can help your dog feel full and shed some extra pounds. But it should be served in moderation. Brown rice also contains carbohydrates, hence overconsumption can have the opposite effect on your dog’s body.
Brown rice generally contains higher levels of insoluble fiber than white rice. By adding it to your dog’s diet you can increase their fiber intake which might help treat constipation.
Although if your dog is suffering from diarrhea, you can add more soluble fiber to their diet or consult your veterinarian.
As mentioned above brown rice is a whole grain consisting of the bran layer that constitutes its tan or brown color.
White rice is the same grain without the outer hull, bran, and germ layer. It’s made by a process of milling that cleans, shells, and removes the bran layer from the brown rice.
This process alters the taste and texture of the white rice and helps prevent spoilage by extending its storage life. The downside of this process is that it also removes various nutrients, for example, the removal of the bran layer makes the white rice lose some dietary fiber, fatty acids, and magnesium.
White rice contains slightly higher calories and carbohydrates than brown rice. It also contains less nutrient value as compared to brown rice. Another difference between the two is that brown rice contains more fiber content because of the bran layer that remains intact.
Brown rice is a more nutritious and fibrous food option compared to white rice. Hence if you’re looking to add a supplement to your dog’s diet that’ll provide more fiber while still being low calorie, then brown rice might be a good option for your dog.
Due to its gluten-free nature, brown rice is also quite popular amongst pet owners whose dogs suffer from sensitivities and allergies. It can also be a great supplement for dogs that have high blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar levels. The insoluble fibers in brown rice can also help treat constipation.
The bran layer present in the brown rice makes it harder to digest when compared to white rice. Hence it’s not advisable to serve home-cooked brown rice to your dog when they have a sensitive stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or nausea.
Additionally, if your dog suffers from any other health issues, you should consult a veterinarian before feeding home-cooked brown rice to your dog.
Many vets may recommend serving plain white rice to help treat diarrhea. It contains soluble fibers and more starch than brown rice which can help bind the stool and calm the gut of your dog.
White rice also contains higher-calorie content compared to brown rice, hence it can lead to weight gain. If your dog is overweight or is trying to lose weight, you should avoid white rice.
Furthermore, it contains a higher glycemic index which can lead to a rise in blood sugar. If your dog suffers from diabetes or heart disease, you would want to choose brown rice over white rice or you can consult your veterinarian.
Let’s discuss the right portion sizes and methods of preparing brown rice for a dog…
Brown rice is nutritious as it contains every part of the grain including the fibrous bran, the nutritious germ, and the carb-rich endosperm. It also contains carbohydrates and calories but lower than white rice. Thus it’s important that you serve it in moderation and only as a supplement to a complete and well-balanced diet.
The exact portion size will depend on your dog's age, weight, and breed. But ideally, the serving size should fall in the 10% Treat Rule. The calories your dog gets from brown rice shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie amount.
Many dog food brands use rice or some other grain in their recipes. You’ll have to take this into consideration before introducing brown rice to your dog's diet. Excess intake of rice can significantly increase their fiber intake which could cause multiple health problems.
Furthermore, overconsumption of brown rice can increase your dog’s carbohydrates intake which could lead to weight gain. Feeding the right portions of brown rice will ensure your dog gets all the nutrients without packing on extra pounds.
You should never feed your dog raw brown rice. It’s a whole grain that retains the bran layer which makes it harder to digest. Hence it’s important to properly cook the brown rice before feeding it to your dog.
Start with cleaning the brown rice with water to remove excess starch. Then add some water and brown rice to a large pot and bring it to a boil. Due to the tougher outer layer, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Remember while cooking rice don’t add any spices or seasoning like salt, pepper, oil, butter, cumin, soy sauce, herbs, etc. These ingredients aren’t safe for dogs and can cause multiple health problems.
But if your dog is a fussy eater and refuses to eat rice on its own, you can mix it with their existing meal to make it more appealing.
You can feed your puppy brown rice but in moderation. Remember they need a lot of protein for the growth and development of their muscles and organs. Hence a majority of their diet needs to be protein-based and well-balanced. Brown rice should only be served as a supplement.
You can cook brown rice for a puppy in the same way as mentioned above. But if you’re worried that brown rice will be hard to digest by a puppy, you can slightly mash cooked rice to make it even easier to chew.
If you feed brown rice to your puppy correctly, it can help in keeping their energy level high and support their overall well-being.
If you're introducing brown rice to your dog, then you should take certain precautions to ensure they can reap maximum benefits while avoiding health issues.
Rice is a grain and in a rare case, your dog can be allergic to it. Even if they weren’t before, a dog can develop allergies at any point in their life.
If your dog has an allergic reaction to brown rice you might see symptoms like itchy skin, hair loss, vomiting, skin rashes, or ear infections. It's best to consult your veterinarian to determine whether your dog suffers from a rice allergy or not.
While preparing brown rice for your dog avoid adding spices or seasonings including butter, salt, oil, etc. Also do not feed fried rice to your dog. It contains a lot of sodium, spices, sauce, and garlic. All these ingredients can cause serious trouble for a dog.
Brown rice is packed with carbohydrates. The dog food you buy from the store to feed your dog also contains carbohydrates. And while your dog needs some healthy amount of carbs to fuel their energy and growth, overconsumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
To avoid this keep track of their total carbs intake and consult a veterinarian to discuss all your dog's nutritional requirements.
Brown rice should never substitute or replace a complete and well-balanced diet. It’s made with mostly carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins but contains little protein which needs to be balanced with protein from other ingredients for a complete and well-balanced diet.
If you fail to balance their diet or feed them too much brown rice it can cause nutritional deficiencies leading to many other health problems in your dog.
Brown rice is a good choice to supplement with your dog's diet. It’s packed with high-quality nutrients that can help your dog feel more satisfied after eating. The digestible carbohydrates can boost their energy level keeping them healthy and active throughout the day.
Just remember the right portion sizes and avoid adding harmful ingredients like butter, oil, or any other spices.
If you have any further questions, you can consult a veterinarian before adding brown rice to your dog's diet.
It depends, if the upset stomach is due to constipation then brown rice would be a better option as it contains higher levels of insoluble fiber than white rice. But if your dog has an upset stomach due to diarrhea, the soluble fibers and starch content in white rice will help in binding their stool and calm their gut.
Filler is an ingredient present in dog food to add bulk to a diet without adding any nutritional value. Whereas brown rice has many nutritional benefits as it contains vitamin B and D, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, and manganese.
Vitamins and minerals present in brown rice might be able to prevent a lot of health issues in your dog. But whether or not you should feed brown rice to your dog when they’re sick will depend on what kind of sickness they are suffering from. You should consult a veterinarian about your dog's diet when they’re sick.
If your dog has diarrhea they might benefit more from adding white rice to their diet. The soluble fiber and starch present in white rice can help bind the stool and calm the gut of your dog. Many veterinarians might recommend feeding cooked white rice to your dog when they have diarrhea.
Yes, brown rice contains high levels of insoluble fiber that can help treat constipation.
You can feed brown rice to a dog on its own or you can mix it with their existing meal to make it more appealing.
It mostly depends on a dog’s size, age, weight, and breed. Ideally, you should follow the 10% Treat Rule which states that the calories your dog gets from brown rice shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie amount.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/can-dogs-eat-rice/
https://sundaysfordogs.com/blog/is-brown-rice-for-dogs-safe
We love cuddles and kisses from our dogs. But this joy can be dampened when their breath stinks! While it’s normal for a dog to have a certain degree of bad breath, excessively foul-smelling breath can be a sign of a much bigger problem.
In this article, we'll delve into the top 10 reasons why your dog’s breath smells so bad and what you should be doing in such situations. We’ll also share some tips and tricks that’ll help you prevent bad breaths and promote better oral health in your canine companion.
Below we have discussed the 10 most common reasons that can lead to bad breath in dogs:
Digestive issues in dogs can lead to the production of gasses, which are often released through the mouth, similar to burping, resulting in bad breath. In such cases, you might also notice signs like vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite, or lethargy.
How can you address this?
If you’ve recently made a sudden change in your dog’s diet, then the new food addition could be the culprit behind their digestive issues and bad breath. If there aren’t any allergy issues, most of these problems will go away once they have adjusted to their new diet. You can also simply stop feeding that food or revert to their old diet.
Otherwise, you can either try incorporating fiber-rich food into their diet to help relieve gas and promote healthy digestion or consult with a vet to find the cause of your dog’s digestive issues.
Bad oral hygiene and periodontal disease are a leading cause of bad breath in dogs. They are caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which results in the overgrowth of bad bacteria and a foul smell.
How can you address this?
Most dogs will develop some tartar or plaque at some point in their life. However, this situation can be avoided by regular brushing and appropriate chew toys.
But if you do suspect your dog has tartar or plaque buildup, you should schedule a professional cleaning appointment with a veterinarian to address this issue promptly. When left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to more severe health problems than just bad breath.
Many dogs will eat just about anything, even things that we might find unappetizing or even gross. This includes garbage, poop, rotting food, and other unpleasant items. While this habit can be a normal part of their behavior, it can lead to health issues such as gastrointestinal upset or infections and even bad breath.
How can you address this?
It’s generally recommended to always keep an eye on what your dog is eating and train them to respond to commands like "leave it" or "drop it" to immediately prevent them from consuming inappropriate items.
But if you suspect your dog has eaten something bad which has led to bad breath, then you can take them to a vet. They will help ensure that whatever your dog ate wasn’t toxic and won’t experience any undesirable side effects.
Since we don’t brush our dog’s teeth after every meal, there’s a chance that they can have food particles stuck between their teeth. After a few days, when this food particle starts decomposing, it can emit a bad odor in their mouth.
This situation can also occur with other non-food items like garbage or a piece of grass that they ate out of curiosity.
How can you address this?
Regardless of what your dog ate, you can address this issue by brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and giving them appropriate chew toys. You can also incorporate water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber, celery, and watermelon to promote saliva production, which helps rinse away food particles from their mouth.
Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can cause bad breath in dogs. It happens when the body starts breaking down fat in the absence of sufficient glucose for energy. This process produces a byproduct called ketones that leaves a distinctive sweet or fruity odor on a dog's breath.
How can you address this?
In case you smell a sweet or fruity odor on your dog's breath, you should consult with a veterinarian to diagnose and manage their diabetes.
When a dog’s kidneys aren’t working properly, a buildup of toxins and waste products occurs in their bloodstream. These toxins often emit an ammonia-like odor which often resembles the smell of urine. Therefore, such odor is considered an early sign of kidney dysfunction or disease.
How can you address this?
If you smell ammonia or urine-like smell on your dog's breath, take them to a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment of their kidney problems.
Much like kidney disease, liver disease can also result in bad breath, as improper functioning of this organ results in toxins building up in the bloodstream. However, this situation is accompanied by many other signs like yellowing of the skin or eyes, also known as jaundice.
How can you address this?
Signs of liver disease can vary depending on different factors. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog’s bad breath is caused due to liver disease.
Certain nutritional deficiencies or nutritional imbalances can impact your dog’s health and immune system, making them more susceptible to oral infections and bacterial overgrowth, which can lead to bad breath.
How can you address this?
With the help of a veterinarian or pet nutritionist, start by evaluating your dog’s diet to figure out any nutritional deficiencies. Depending on the situation, you might have to provide them with additional foods such as fruits and veggies or add a commercial supplement to their meal.
Nasal problems like sinusitis or rhinitis lead to a buildup of mucus, which can provide a breeding ground for bacteria that affect your dog’s breath. Additionally, the inflammation and infection associated with nasal issues can contribute to changes in the odor of a dog's breath.
How can you address this?
In case of nasal problems like sinusitis or rhinitis, you should seek veterinary help for medications or treatments to alleviate discomfort.
Oral tumors are a much more serious and life-threatening problem that more commonly affects older dogs. They develop in the mouth and can lead to various symptoms, including difficulty eating, drooling, bleeding, and bad breath.
How can you address this?
Oral tumors are a serious health complication that might require surgical removal, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on their size and location. Thus, it’s essential to provide your dog with proper veterinary attention in such situations.
Treating bad breath in dogs involves addressing the underlying causes. If your dog is experiencing bad breath due to bad oral hygiene, then you should be more regular with their brushing schedule. Also, remember to use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, as some oral hygiene products made for humans can be harmful to dogs.
Apart from this, you can take the following steps to treat bad breath and promote the overall oral health of your dog:
If, even after taking all the right precautions, your dog still has bad breath, then you can consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying health conditions that might be contributing to the issue.
It’s inevitable that your dog, at some point in their life, will suffer from bad breath. However, you can tackle the problem even before it starts. Here’re a few things you can do to help prevent bad breath in your dog:
If your dog occasionally gets bad breath, then you probably don’t need to visit a vet. You can keep up with their brushing routine and try home remedies like chew toys and dental treats.
However, you should take them to a vet if:
Remember that bad breath can be a sign of a bigger health problem. If you can provide your dog with prompt veterinary care, it can help prevent any unforeseen circumstances.
There can be endless reasons for your dog’s bad breath. It can be something minor like a food particle stuck between their teeth or a major health issue like kidney or liver disease. You should look for signs and accompanying symptoms to determine the cause and take appropriate action.
You should also make sure that you maintain your dog’s proper oral hygiene by regularly brushing their teeth with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, providing well-balanced meals, and scheduling regular veterinary dental check-ups. These simple steps will go a long way in not only preventing bad breath but also promoting the overall oral health of your dog.
Now if you have any more doubts about why your dog’s breath smells bad, then please consider consulting a veterinarian for further guidance.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about why a dog’s breath smells so bad:
1. What does bad breath in dogs mean?
Bad breath in dogs can be caused due to various reasons, including dietary habits, periodontal disease, digestive issues, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or even oral tumors. You should look for additional symptoms or talk to a veterinarian, as they can help determine the exact cause of bad breath in your dog.
2. Is bad breath in dogs a sign of illness?
While an occasional bout of less-than-fresh breath is normal in dogs, persistent foul breath can be a sign of illness such as periodontal disease, digestive issues, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or even oral tumors.
In case of an illness, bad breath would be accompanied by other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, changes in appetite, weakness, difficulty breathing, or a sudden change in behavior. If you notice these signs or your dog has persistent bad breath, you should consult a veterinarian in order to rule out any potential health concerns.
3. What diseases cause bad breath in dogs?
Various diseases, like periodontal disease and oral infections, can cause bad breath in dogs. Even some serious health conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, untreated or poorly managed diabetes, and oral tumors can contribute to bad breath in dogs.
4. Does kidney disease in dogs cause bad breath?
Yes, kidney disease can cause bad breath in dogs. It happens because kidneys are responsible for cleaning waste from a dog’s body, but when they aren’t working properly, a buildup of toxins and waste products occurs in the bloodstream. These toxins often emit an ammonia-like odor which often resembles the smell of urine.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/bad-breath-dogs-causes-treatment
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/get-rid-of-stinky-dog-breath/
