Soothe Your Pup's Stomach: A Guide to Biologically Appropriate Diets for Dogs with Digestive Issues
Does your furry friend suffer from frequent vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation?
Gastrointestinal problems can be a real drag for both you and your dog. While a trip to the vet is always crucial to rule out any underlying medical conditions, dietary changes can often make a world of difference in soothing your pup's stomach.
This article explores the concept of biologically appropriate diets (BAD) and how focusing on ingredients can significantly improve your dog's digestion.
Understanding Your Dog's Digestive System
Dogs are descended from wolves, natural carnivores with digestive systems built to thrive on a meat-based diet. Unlike us omnivores, their digestive tracts are shorter and less equipped to handle large quantities of grains and carbohydrates. When these ingredients become a significant part of their diet, it can lead to digestive upset.
The Power of Biologically Appropriate Diets
BADs take inspiration from a dog's ancestral diet, prioritising high-quality animal protein as the main source of nutrition. This aligns better with their digestive capabilities and can significantly improve gut health.
ROYAL CANIN® Gastrointestinal Veterinary Health Dog Food Review
Ingredients to Prioritise:
- Animal Protein: Look for dog foods rich in real meat (chicken, beef, lamb) as the first ingredient. This provides essential amino acids for strong muscles and overall health.
- Limited Carbohydrates: Grains like corn, wheat, and soy can be difficult for some dogs to digest. Opt for diets with limited carbohydrates and focus on complex carbs like sweet potatoes or pumpkin for fibre.
- Healthy Fats: Fats are crucial for energy and nutrient absorption. Look for diets including healthy fats like salmon oil or chicken fat.
- Probiotics: These live bacteria promote gut health and aid digestion. Consider adding a probiotic supplement formulated specifically for dogs.
Beyond the Label: Choosing the Right Food
Not all dog foods labeled "grain-free" are created equal. Scrutinise the ingredient list and prioritise brands that list whole meat sources high up. Avoid foods with fillers, artificial flavours, and by-products.
This is why you should avoid veterinary prescription diets at all costs.
Transitioning to a BAD
A sudden dietary shift can upset your dog's stomach further. Introduce the new food gradually over 7-10 days, slowly mixing it with your dog's current food, increasing the new food's proportion each day.