Pet Digest

Obesity in Dogs: Prevention and Management Through Nutrition Obesity in Dogs: Prevention and Management Through Nutrition Canine obesity is one of the most preventable yet underestimated health problems in modern dogs. It silently undermines their quality of life, increasing the risk of diseases like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer. But the good news? It's largely influenced by one thing: nutrition . This post explores the science behind obesity in dogs, the role of ingredients and calories, and how you can use holistic, species-appropriate nutrition to help your dog thrive at a healthy weight. How Do Dogs Become Overweight? Obesity happens when energy intake exceeds energy expenditure. Simply put, dogs eat more calories than they burn. But there’s more nuance: Free-feeding or overfeeding portions High-carb, high-calorie commercial diets Lack of exercise or breed predisposition Frequent treats or human food scraps In some case...

Winter Effects on Your Dog’s Weight: Why It Happens and How to Help Winter can be a challenging season for dogs — from icy walks to long, lazy days indoors. But did you know that cold weather can also affect your dog’s weight? When the snow starts to fall and temperatures drop, many of us notice changes in our dogs — from lower energy to dry skin. One change that can sneak up on pet parents is weight fluctuation . Dogs may gain or lose weight in the winter depending on their activity level, metabolism, and environment. Understanding these seasonal shifts can help you keep your pup at a healthy weight year-round. A brisk winter walk can help your dog maintain a healthy weight. 🐾 Why Dogs May Gain Weight in Winter Less activity: Cold weather and shorter days often mean fewer walks, shorter playtimes, and less overall movement. Extra calories: Many owners add “comfort foods” or extra treats during the holidays, leading to calorie overload. Indoor l...

Vegan and Vegetarianism in Dogs: Can Dogs Thrive on Plant-Based Diets? With increasing awareness of environmental sustainability, animal welfare, and health concerns, more dog owners are exploring vegan and vegetarian diets for their canine companions. But can dogs truly thrive on plant-based diets? This article examines the science, benefits, risks, and holistic considerations involved in feeding dogs without meat. Plant-based dog food is growing in popularity but requires careful formulation. Are Dogs Naturally Carnivores? Dogs are considered facultative carnivores , meaning they primarily eat meat but can digest and utilize some plant materials. Unlike obligate carnivores (like cats), dogs have evolved digestive enzymes that break down starches and plant fibers. However, their nutritional requirements include some nutrients predominantly found in animal products. For example, essential amino acids like taurine and L-carnitine are critical for hea...

Why You Should Consider Going Grain-Free for Your Dog As pet parents, we all want the best for our dogs—from exercise to mental stimulation to the food in their bowl. One of the most talked-about trends in pet nutrition is the grain-free diet, and it’s not just a passing fad. For many dogs, cutting grains from their diet can lead to better digestion, shinier coats, fewer allergies, and overall improved health. If you’re wondering whether grain-free might be right for your pup, here are five reasons to consider making the switch—backed by veterinary insights and research. --- 1. Grains Aren’t a Natural Part of a Dog’s Ancestral Diet Dogs are descendants of wolves, who primarily ate meat, bones, and some plant matter—not corn, wheat, or rice. While dogs have adapted somewhat to modern diets, their digestive systems are still optimized for high-protein, low-carb foods. According to PetMD, a grain-free diet may better align with your dog’s natural nutritional needs, offering ingredients th...

🐾 Common Health Conditions in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Should Know As loving dog parents, it’s our job to stay informed about the health issues our furry friends might face throughout their lives. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of health conditions—some mild, others more serious. Knowing what to watch out for can help you act quickly and give your pup the best care possible. Here are some common conditions in dogs, what causes them, and how to recognize the signs. --- 1. Allergies Dogs can be allergic to environmental factors (like pollen), food ingredients, or even fleas. Symptoms often include itching, red skin, ear infections, and excessive licking. Common signs: Itchy skin, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea. Treatment: Depends on the cause—may include antihistamines, dietary changes, or flea prevention. 📖 Read more from VCA Hospitals --- 2. Dental Disease Periodontal disease is one of the most common medical conditions in adult dogs. It can cause pain, bad breath,...

  Why Puppy Food Can Be a Smart Choice for Growing Dogs When it comes to feeding a growing dog, owners are often confronted with a bewildering array of kibble, canned food, and homemade options. One category consistently recommended by veterinarians and canine nutritionists is puppy food. While it’s designed for puppies, there are clear reasons it may be the best choice during early life stages — and even in certain special cases beyond puppyhood. Understanding why puppy food works, what it provides, and how it differs from adult dog food helps pet parents make informed decisions that promote lifelong health. --- Nutrient Density Matters Puppy food is formulated to be nutrient-dense, meaning it provides more protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals per cup than typical adult dog food. Puppies grow quickly — they’re building bones, muscles, skin, and organs — and require more calories and nutrients than adult dogs. Think of it like infant formula for humans. Babies require p...

What is Cocomega in Dog Food? Updated: August 2025 If you’ve flipped over a bag of dog food and spotted the ingredient “Cocomega” , you might be wondering—what exactly is it? A superfood? A gimmick? Or something in between? Let’s unpack this branded fat supplement and see whether it deserves a place in your dog’s bowl. What is Cocomega? Cocomega™ is a trademarked ingredient that blends coconut oil and fish oil . Together, they combine two very different but complementary fat sources: Coconut oil → rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) , fats that are quickly absorbed and converted into energy. Fish oil → packed with omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) , which are known for their anti-inflammatory and brain-supporting properties. Think of Cocomega as a way to deliver both fast fuel and long-term health support in one package. Why is Cocomega Used in Dog Food? Pet food companies often include Cocomega because it offers benefits that...

Understanding Fibre: Part 3 of Canine Nutrition Essentials Understanding Fibre: Part 3 of Canine Nutrition Essentials Welcome to Part 3 of our deep dive into the 7 Essential Nutrients in Canine Nutrition . Today, we focus on fibre — a key yet often misunderstood component of your dog’s diet. From digestion and gut health to weight management and immune support, fibre plays multiple vital roles in holistic canine wellbeing. What Is Fibre? Dietary fibre consists of the indigestible parts of plant foods that pass through the digestive system largely intact. Unlike proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, fibre is not broken down for energy but serves other important functions, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. In dogs, fibre can be classified into two main types: Soluble fibre — dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance. It slows digestion and helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fibre — does not dissolve in water and adds b...

Understanding Metabolism in Dogs: How It Affects Nutrition and Health Understanding Metabolism in Dogs: How It Affects Nutrition and Health Metabolism is the complex set of chemical processes that occur within your dog’s body to maintain life. It influences how your dog converts food into energy, repairs tissues, and maintains overall health. Understanding metabolism is key to providing the right nutrition for your dog’s unique needs. What Is Metabolism? Metabolism consists of two main processes: Catabolism: Breaking down food molecules to release energy. Anabolism: Using energy to build and repair tissues. These processes affect your dog’s energy levels, weight, and overall vitality. Factors Influencing Canine Metabolism Age: Puppies and young dogs have faster metabolisms than seniors. Breed and size: Small breeds often have higher metabolic rates per pound than large breeds. Activity level: Active dogs burn more calories. Health status: Il...

Canine Pancreatitis: Dietary Causes and Nutritional Recovery Pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that can cause severe pain and disrupt digestion in dogs. Nutrition plays a crucial role both in the onset and management of this serious illness. The pancreas: key to digestion and metabolism. What Is Pancreatitis? The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin. In pancreatitis, these enzymes activate prematurely, damaging pancreatic tissue and causing inflammation. This can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Dietary Causes and Risk Factors High-fat meals: Sudden ingestion of fatty foods is the most common trigger. Obesity: Overweight dogs are at increased risk due to fat metabolism issues. Human food scraps: Rich, fatty foods often fed as treats can precipitate attacks. Underlying conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, or previous episodes increase susceptibili...

Heart Disease and Nutrition: What Your Dog’s Heart Needs Heart disease is a common and serious condition in dogs that can affect their quality of life and longevity. While genetics and age are key factors, nutrition plays a vital role in both prevention and management of cardiac issues. Common Types of Heart Disease in Dogs Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): Degeneration of the mitral valve causing heart murmur and heart failure. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Enlargement and weakening of the heart muscle, impairing function. Congenital Heart Defects: Present from birth and may include valve or septal defects. We previously discussed Diet and DCM Risks , highlighting the importance of taurine and balanced nutrients. Nutrition’s Role in Heart Health Key Nutrients to Support Cardiac Function Taurine and L-carnitine: Amino acids vital for heart muscle energy metabolism. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. Antioxidants (Vitamins ...

L-Carnitine & Post-Meal Movement: A Smarter Approach to Your Dog’s Weight Loss Helping your dog lose weight isn’t just about feeding less — it’s about feeding smart and supporting that diet with the right kind of movement. One powerful (and often overlooked) nutrient in the fight against fat is L-carnitine , and when paired with light post-meal activity, it can help your dog burn fat more efficiently. Let’s break down why it matters. What is L-Carnitine? L-carnitine is an amino acid-like compound that plays a major role in fat metabolism . It helps transport fatty acids into the mitochondria (the energy powerhouses in cells), where they’re burned for energy. Without enough L-carnitine, your dog’s body can’t efficiently turn fat into fuel. In dog food, L-carnitine is often added to weight-control formulas to help promote lean muscle and reduce fat stores. 🐶 Did You Know? A 2006 study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry showed that L-carnitine supplemen...

🐾 Carbs in Dog Food: What Pet Food Labels Aren’t Telling You When shopping for dog food, most pet parents focus on protein and fat content—but what about carbohydrates? Surprisingly, many pet food labels leave this information out entirely. Here’s why carbs matter, how to calculate them yourself, and what it means for your dog’s health. --- 🧐 Why Are Carbs Hidden? Unlike human food labels, pet food in North America isn’t required to list carbohydrate content. Instead, they focus on: Crude protein Crude fat Moisture Fiber Ash (sometimes) This means you’ll have to do the math yourself if you want to know how much of your dog’s food is made up of carbs. --- 📊 How to Calculate Carbs in Dog Food Use this simple equation: 100 - (Protein% + Fat% + Moisture% + Fiber% + Ash%) = Carbohydrates% > ⚠️ If ash isn’t listed (it often isn’t), assume 8% for kibble-based diets. Example: Let’s say a dog food lists: Protein: 25% Fat: 15% Moisture: 10% Fiber: 4% Ash (not listed): Assume 8% 100 - (25 +...

Understanding Dog Diarrhea: Nutritional Triggers and Gut Health Understanding Dog Diarrhea: Nutritional Triggers and Gut Health Diarrhea is a common digestive issue in dogs that can range from mild to serious. While many factors can cause diarrhea, diet and nutrition are often key contributors, as well as vital tools in treatment and prevention. Common Nutritional Causes of Diarrhea Sudden diet changes: Abrupt switching of foods can upset gut flora and digestion. Food intolerances or allergies: Proteins like beef, dairy, or grains may trigger reactions. High-fat or spicy foods: Can overwhelm the digestive system. Low fiber intake: Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and gut health (see Understanding Fiber ). Contaminated or spoiled food: Introduces pathogens causing gastrointestinal upset. Supporting Gut Health Through Nutrition Choose Easily Digestible Foods Foods with moderate protein, low fat, and gentle carbohydrates help soothe the gut and r...

🐾 Why Puppies Eat So Much & How Puppy Food Differs from Adult Food Bringing home a new puppy can feel a little like moving in with a toddler on four legs. One moment they’re bouncing around with endless energy, and the next they’re collapsed in a nap as though their batteries suddenly ran out. But in between play and sleep, there’s one thing new puppy parents notice quickly: the seemingly insatiable appetite. Puppies eat a lot, and they often seem hungry again not long after finishing a meal. Feeding is one of the most important aspects of raising a healthy puppy, and also one of the most confusing. Pet food companies all make claims, bags of kibble are covered in charts, and advice varies depending on who you ask. Should you leave food down all day so your puppy can eat as needed? Or stick to strict meal times? Can puppies eat adult food? And when is it time to make the switch? This guide takes the confusion out of the process. We’ll look at why puppies need to eat so much mor...

Do All Grain-Free Dog Foods Have a Legume Base? Short answer: No. Many grain-free kibbles lean on legumes like peas, lentils, and chickpeas, but not all of them. The real question is balance — not simply “grains vs. legumes.” This post breaks down why legumes show up so often, when they’re a problem, and how to read the label like a pro. What “Grain-Free” Actually Means “Grain-free” simply means the recipe doesn’t include wheat, corn, rice, barley, or oats. Pet food still needs carbohydrate and starch to bind kibble and supply energy, so manufacturers replace grains with other starches and fibers. Common grain substitutes: Legumes: peas, lentils, chickpeas, beans Tubers: potatoes, sweet potatoes Roots & starches: tapioca, cassava, pumpkin If you want a refresher on reading panels, see our guide to decoding dog food labels . Why Legumes Became Popular in Grain-Free Diets Legumes are widely used because they’re cost-effective, supply plant protein and fib...