Canines, just like humans, have specific dietary needs, and those needs must be met in order to ensure that they are in optimal health. As a pet parent, your job is to make sure that your pup is eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes all of the vitamins, minerals, and other nutritional elements that he needs to thrive. Despite the fact that you may be offering him a premium quality dog food from one of the top dog food brands, he may be missing out on some of the nutrition that he needs.
One of the essential nutrients that nutrients that many canines aren’t getting enough of is fiber. A complex carbohydrate, fiber is resistant to the digestive enzymes that are produced within the gastrointestinal tract of your pet. It plays a key role in digestion, as it helps to normalize stool, it keeps him feeling fuller longer, aids in maintaining a healthy weight, and it can even help to ward off serious illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, and disease of the anal glands.
Recommended Reading: Best High Fiber Dog Food for Anal Gland Problems
Given the importance of fiber, it’s important to make sure that your pooch is getting the right amount. But how much does he need? The answer to that question is difficult to answer, as it depends on a variety of factors, including the size and age of your dog, as well as his lifestyle. But, veterinarians and animal nutritionists do report that many dogs aren’t getting enough fiber. Why? – Because the amount of nutrients that mass produced dry dog food and wet dog food contains – the foods that most pet parents offer their four-legged friends – isn’t closely regulated. That means that, unfortunately, fiber is often missing from the equation. How can you tell if your canine companion is getting the fiber he needs? By looking for the signs that indicate he is. If your pooch is seems to be satiated after meals (he isn’t constantly searching for a dog treat or digging at his dog bowl for more food), if he’s maintaining a healthy weight, and if he just appears to be healthy overall, it’s likely that he’s getting enough fiber. However, if he’s having issues with his stools (he’s constipated or they are too loose to pick up with a poop bag), he’s listless, and he’s having issues with his weight, then there’s a chance that he isn’t getting enough fiber.
Ways to Help
How can you increase your dog’s fiber intake? Speak with your veterinarian first; but, making simple changes should do the trick. For example, feeding him human-grade dog food, raw dog food, or food that features a healthy blend of fruits and vegetables is an easy way to up his fiber intake. You can also offer him fruits and veggies alone, like spinach, green beans, apples, and watermelon.
Another way you can help your pup is by offering him probiotics for dogs, such as Glandex Soft Chews Anal Gland Support for Dogs. It features a premium blend of fiber, which will help to alleviate those digestive woes that your pooch may be experiencing. Plus, you’re dog will love the yummy peanut butter flavor.
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