We have said many times that one of the most important things for the health and happiness of your pet, and ultimately for you, is a good, quality diet. People are increasingly mindful of their diets, and fortunately, they are not forgetting about their dogs either. Generally, customers have started to read labels and the ingredients of pet food from e-shops and are interested in what the recipes contain and what high-quality food should actually include. And we are very happy about that!
But let’s move on to the main topic of today, how to enhance a good diet even further.
We always say this and we will say it now – ideally, you should consult a veterinarian whenever you change your pet's diet or add to it. While we are talking about natural helpers, every pet is unique (which is what makes it beautiful!) and may react differently to certain foods than its buddy.
#1 – Pumpkin
Especially if your dog has digestive issues, raw pumpkin is a great addition to its diet. It has a high fiber content, which can help firm up loose stools. It has also been shown to benefit the urinary tract, so if your pet has problems of this kind, try adding a spoonful of pumpkin to its food. Just make sure to get unsweetened pumpkin, such as in a can, or ideally make the puree yourself. It's important that there are simply no additives in it. And sweet pumpkin pie filling certainly won't do your pet any good!
#2 – Eggs
Few foods can surpass the nutritional value of eggs. Their combination of high-quality proteins and fats along with a wide range of vitamins and minerals is truly valuable, and it is not an expensive enhancement to the diet. Egg whites are more digestible when cooked, while yolks retain their highest nutritional value when raw. One egg a day for a larger dog is a reasonable amount; a small friend can manage with half. Do not add the shell to your pet's diet in any form, as it contains too much calcium for dogs. Calcium binds other minerals, and this could lead to their deficiency in the body.
#3 – Fruits and vegetables
Another staple of a healthy diet, whether for humans or their furry partners. For dogs, various types of berries are suitable, especially blueberries, which are packed with antioxidants. Other good fruits include bananas or apples. Avoid overly sweet varieties, such as grapes, which would provide too much sugar for a dog's body. In terms of vegetables, green leafy types are more beneficial than starchy ones (like potatoes, ...). So, you can rely on spinach or kale. Vegetables are often more nutritious when cooked, but some, like carrots or zucchini, are great fresh and can even be a healthy treat! Broccoli is also a good choice with a high nutrient content, but don't overdo it as it can cause bloating.
#4 – Fish oil
Yes, we hear it everywhere regarding the human diet, but it applies to dogs too! Fish oil is a great supplement because it is an excellent source of omega-3 and -6 unsaturated fatty acids. These are important for your dog's coat, helping it to become thicker and shinier. Omega fatty acids also enhance the immune system, reduce inflammation, and are beneficial for the brain, which is especially important for puppies or seniors. With excessive supplementation, there is a risk of a significant decrease in vitamin E levels in your dog's body, so don’t overdo it, but in moderation, fish oil can only be beneficial. There are many supplements on the market; particularly nice are salmon oils from brands like Essential or Hofseth BioCare. Another option is to opt for canned sardines. Just make sure to get ones that are packed in water, not oil.
#5 – Coconut oil
Another fat that is gaining popularity among pet owners as a cosmetic product, but also as a supplement for cold cuisine. And that's great because it has a lot of beneficial effects that your pet can also benefit from! It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties and thus benefits the entire body. It has positive effects on skin disorders and even acts as a prevention for diabetes or helps control it. Keep in mind that coconut oil is essentially pure fat, so don’t overdo it again.
#6 – Plain yogurt
Plain yogurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics, as long as your dog does not have a significant problem with lactose tolerance. This natural supplement can thus help with digestive issues and also provide necessary nutrients. Of course, avoid any sweetened or flavored yogurts and opt for a low-fat product instead.
#7 – Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a substance, a fine white powder made from fossilized remains of siliceous shells of simple organisms. If you occasionally add diatomaceous earth powder to your dog's food, it will eliminate all kinds of parasites. Even external use is very beneficial, as it has the ability to kill fleas or ticks. If you want to use it, opt for food-grade diatomaceous earth.
#8 – Herbs
Herbs are known to regulate certain bodily functions and effectively harmonize them with the rest of the organism. Sometimes they can even calm your pet or help with allergies. The list of health-promoting herbs and their effects would be very long, so we will mention at least a few of the most common ones. Some are also added to dry or canned foods.
One of the most commonly used herbs is rosemary. It is rich in iron, vitamin B6, calcium, and has proven to be a strong antioxidant. It also has antibacterial effects, thus benefiting digestion and keeping food fresh for a longer time. Of course, it can also season dishes nicely! Mint is great for refreshing any meal in the bowl. It can even "improve" your dog's breath! However, it also has other benefits. It calms the stomach, reduces bloating and nausea. Other herbs like oregano can help with digestion and bloating. Basil has antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. You will also find many uses for chamomile. For many people, it is the first aid they turn to for their pet’s digestive problems and stomach issues. It alleviates cramps, helps with bloating, and reduces inflammation. The essential oils found in chamomile help relax even muscle cramps. You can also add fennel seeds directly into your dog's food. They help with gas or acute digestive issues, for example, from overeating or if your dog eats something it shouldn't have and that didn't agree with it. You can also use cooled tea made from this herb. Thyme is a good antiseptic for the mouth and throat due to its volatile oil components thymol and carvacrol. It is also often used as an ingredient in toothpaste. This herb is beneficial for coughs, asthma, and other respiratory issues.
You can add herbs to the food fresh or dried. However, do not use those that have been lying around in a corner of the pantry for years; they wouldn't be very helpful. A pinch is enough for small dogs, while a teaspoon will benefit a large pet, which you can add to its bowl. If you make homemade treats, you can add a pinch of herbs to enhance their flavor. Just as herbs can be beneficial in moderation, in large amounts they can also harm, so more here doesn’t always mean better. Be especially careful with tinctures if you are a fan of them. They are concentrated sources of herbal essential oils, so always consult a veterinarian about them.
Read more articles on our blog!
