Pet Digest

Winter Meals to Help Your Dog Thrive As the cold weather sets in, many pet parents wonder how to best support their dog’s nutrition and overall well-being. Just like us, dogs can burn more calories in colder months to stay warm, and they may benefit from small dietary adjustments. Providing nutrient-dense, warming foods can help maintain energy, support joint health, and keep your pup comfortable all season long. 🥩 Add Warming Proteins When we talk about warming proteins, we mean foods that are naturally more calorie-dense and help support body heat production, according to traditional food energetics. Proteins like lamb, venison, beef, and chicken fall into this category. They’re especially helpful for dogs that get cold easily, such as lean breeds, seniors, or dogs with short coats. For balance, you don’t need to switch your dog’s diet completely — simply adding small amounts of warming proteins (for example, mixing cooked beef or lamb into meals, or using them as toppers) can give ...

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), Dementia, and the Role of Diet: Can the Mediterranean Approach Help Dogs? Last updated: August 2025 Aging brings wisdom, but it also brings challenges—both for humans and our dogs. One of the most concerning conditions in senior dogs is canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) , often compared to Alzheimer’s or dementia in humans. As awareness grows, so does the question: can diet play a role in protecting our dogs’ brains? More specifically, could a Mediterranean-style diet, known to support human brain health, offer benefits for dogs too? What Is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)? Canine cognitive dysfunction is a neurodegenerative condition affecting older dogs. It shares striking similarities with human dementia, including: Confusion and disorientation – dogs may wander aimlessly, get “stuck” in corners, or seem lost in familiar places. Changes in sleep cycles – often restless at night, pacing or barking. House training issues – ...

The Role of Fats in Your Dog’s Health: Omegas, Energy & Skin Benefits Fats have long been misunderstood in both human and canine nutrition. While often associated with weight gain, healthy fats are essential to your dog’s health. In fact, fats provide more than twice the energy of proteins or carbohydrates, and they’re critical for everything from brain function to a glossy coat. Why Do Dogs Need Fat? Fats are more than just calories—they’re vital macronutrients that support: Absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) Cell structure and hormone production Healthy skin and coat Brain development and cognitive function Insulation and body temperature regulation Types of Fat in Dog Nutrition Saturated Fats: Found in animal sources like chicken fat and beef tallow. Provide dense energy and are less prone to oxidation. Monounsaturated Fats: Found in olive oil and some nuts. Less common in dog food, but still beneficial. Polyunsaturated Fats: In...