The special bond between humans and dogs stretches back well over 10,000 years, yet the much more recent trend of humanising our dogs has led to an increasing number of us treating them like furry, four-legged humans, rather than canines.
While there is no doubt that we love these close bonds with our pets; our increased tendency to feed them overly complex food, frequently change their food type, and give them treats not designed for dogs, can cause us to inadvertently create problems for our canine friends.
Food and Treats to Keep Your Dog Satisfied and Healthy
Fish is widely believed to be the perfect healthy choice for your dog’s diet, just as it would be for your own and when their mealtimes are completely developed by pet nutritionists, you can be rest assured your dog is eating a carefully balanced diet.
Moreover, fish based food will provide your dog with a protein-rich meal, as well as carbohydrates and other nutrients to ensure they feel satisfied and full of energy. Switching to fish, with its more robust taste and natural levels of beneficial omega-3, dog owners will still see wagging tails and empty bowls, with the peace of mind that they’ve made a positive, healthy choice for their pet.
The Health Benefits For Your Dog
The omega-3 in fish oils may help reduce dry and irritated skin, and improve the condition of your dog’s coat. The anti-inflammatory benefits of omega-3 can work to help tired and aching joints feel relieved and more supple. The mineral balance, together with the omega-3 in the fish, will help support brain development and strong eyesight. Also, fish based food is easier for some dogs to digest, compared to other protein sources. This makes it especially suitable for dogs with more sensitive digestive tracts.
The ‘fish-based’ answers to the most frequent questions:
My Dog is Very Fussy, What Shall I Do?
Most dogs love fish, and the slightly stronger smell is exactly what they love the most. The stronger smell shouldn’t be of any big concern either; however, if you’re still a little hesitant to make the change, try using a topper or even drizzle some salmon oil over their kibble to see the benefits before making the complete switch.
My Dog Often Has a Sensitive Tummy, Will Fish Based Food Help?
These tummy troubles caused by sensitivities and intolerances affect a number of our dogs; just in the same way they affect us humans. The key is to feed them easily digestible food made from recipes that are free from ingredients commonly associated with intolerances, including wheat, soya and dairy.
For more sensitive dogs, it’s generally best to avoid red meats which makes fish ideal. As well as being gentler on digestion, fish has an excellent amino acid profile and together with the omega-3 oils, can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
My Dog Needs to Lose Weight, But I Still Want to Treat Them
The trick is to make small sensible changes to begin with. If you’re concerned about overfeeding, go back to the bag and check the feeding guidelines to ensure you’re following them correctly. If needed, switch to a weight control food or reduce the amount you’re feeding. Remember that just as crash dieting is bad for you, it’s bad for your dog. If you are going to reduce your dog’s food, do it by 10% at a time.
Your dog doesn’t have to go without being rewarded or treated, simply swap the calorie-laden treats with healthy, natural Sea Jerky. Instead of dental treats that can have up to 100 calories in each one, the Sea Jerky contains as little as three calories per treat, and the rough texture can help with tartar on your dog’s teeth.
Fish4Dogs specialises in tasty, natural and healthy premium fish-based dog food and treats; which are gluten free, hypoallergenic and packed with naturally occurring Omega 3.
A palatable fish-rich diet is not only nutritious but can help with coat condition, skin condition, joint mobility, digestion, energy and brain and eye development.. Fish4Dogs deliver the full range of the best dry dog food direct to your door as well as selling in select independent pet shops around the UK.
To find out more, or to try Fish4Dogs products visit http://www.fish4dogs.com and enter DOCTOR10 at the checkout for a 10% discount.
