Every pet owner has struggled with gastrointestinal dog food at some point or another, and it’s no surprise why: it’s one of the most common health issues that plague dogs. Unfortunately, the treatment options are few and far between and don’t always produce long-lasting results. However, if you’re looking to help your dog manage his or her gastrointestinal issues naturally, there are plenty of foods out there that can help! Read on to learn more about what gastrointestinal dog food entails, how to find the right one for your pup, and the best food brands on the market today!
Understand why dogs are prone to GI upset
While people are prone to indigestion and other GI issues, gastrointestinal dog food is especially important for canines since dogs don’t have access to dietary fiber. If a dog doesn’t consume enough fiber, his GI tract won’t move at full speed, which means he’ll be more susceptible to IBS-like symptoms. Look for brands that include prebiotics and probiotics in their formulas; these ingredients can help with canine digestion.
Know when your dog is sick enough for vet care
Dogs, unlike humans, aren’t very good at communicating when they’re ill. While some dog owners can pick up on subtle changes in their pup (such as restlessness and loss of appetite), many others don’t notice anything until it’s too late and their furry companion is struggling with serious health problems. Learning how to recognize signs of gastrointestinal dog food problems early on can help you and your vet prevent life-threatening situations down the road.
Understanding the ingredients list
Many dog food brands market themselves as offering natural or holistic recipes. But, when you look closely at their ingredients list, you often find that they contain things like hydrolyzed poultry by-product meal and animal digest—which aren’t acted under those names on pet food labels. Why? Because some ingredients are considered trade secrets and don’t have to be disclosed on product packaging.
Finding a diet that works for you and your pet
When you’re shopping for dog food, look at labels and choose brands that contain organic products. It might be a little more expensive than your bargain-basement dog food, but you won’t have to worry about any kind of gastrointestinal problems. Healthy Crockpot Meals: If you’re a Crock-Pot lover like I am, then I have just what you need for your next meal. Try adding some of these ingredients and make sure they are healthy meats and veggies!
Work with your vet on the proper diet
A healthy diet is one of many factors that can influence your dog’s health. Talk with your vet about what your dog should eat, as each breed and animal has specific dietary needs. If you’re in charge of cooking for your pet, discuss healthy options for canine meals—crockpot recipes often work best for dogs! This will ensure healthy crockpot meals for your pet.
Healthy crockpot meals are also ideal for seniors or those recovering from illness or surgery. Crockpots are good for dogs because they keep food warm but not hot throughout mealtime. The gradual release of heat during slow cooking makes crockpots ideal for pets with delicate stomachs.
Tips for preventing GI upset
Some dogs are more sensitive than others, so it’s a good idea to start with a healthy crockpot meal that isn’t too new or different. If your dog eats turkey and rice every day, try mixing it up by adding some other meats or vegetables like chicken or broccoli. If you have an older dog, go easy on potatoes and dairy products until you see how they affect her; sometimes these foods can cause diarrhea or gas in senior dogs who aren’t used to them.
Helpful resources
If you are looking for more information about gastrointestinal dog food, here are some helpful resources. The PetMd website has a wealth of articles on topics related to your pet’s health. Dr. Karen Becker also offers an excellent resource with her free e-newsletter, Healthy Pets. Finally, if you would like to learn more about how to choose healthy dog treats or what types of foods are best for dogs with allergies or other medical conditions, be sure to check out our post on canine nutrition and wellness at Pawsitively Pets.
