We take great care of our own health, including looking after our digestive health by eating whole foods, taking probiotics, and avoiding foods we’re sensitive to. As family members, our dog’s gut health should also be a priority, but it can be confusing how to support this. We’ve put together an easy-to-follow guide so that you can properly look after the digestive health of your beloved pet dogs.
Ingredients
Descended from the majestic wolf, domestic dogs are carnivores and, as such, need a diet that reflects this. A diet high in grains can cause problems for our beloved pups, including bloating and gas. Choosing dog food with little or no grain can save our pets the discomfort of trying to ingest ingredients they aren’t built for. If choosing to give your dog raw food, avoid chicken bones, as they can splinter and lodge or scratch the upper reaches of the digestive tract.
Probiotics
It’s not only us humans who have a delicate microbiome that needs to be nourished correctly to sustain its balance. Including probiotic for dogs into their daily diet will help maintain their fragile intestinal eco-system. Probiotics may also ease symptoms for pups who suffer from gas and bloating, letting them feel comfortable and happy. But even for dogs who don’t have these issues, there are benefits, such as improved coat condition and more energy.
Hydration
Making sure dogs have access to enough drinking water keeps them hydrated. Being adequately hydrated is essential to digestion as it allows food to break down efficiently in the digestive tract and waste to move through properly. Neglecting to give your pet enough water to drink could make them feel rotten, especially in hot weather. Chronic dehydration causes stress, which can cause GI issues that are unpleasant for both dog and owner to deal with.
Exercise
The best way to keep things moving inside is by moving the outside, so it’s essential to get doggo out and moving every day. Different breeds have different exercise requirements, so the amount of time you need to be out together will vary from dog to dog, but some movement is vital. Again, just like in people, exercise has many benefits for our canine friends, including reducing stress and improving the immune system. All these things, in turn, benefit and support the digestive system.
Dog Proofing
Our beloved dogs are a bit like toddlers; they will try to get into everything, especially when there’s food involved. It is essential to ensure that areas of the kitchen, such as the trash bag, are kept secure so that the pup can’t go scavenging for two-day-old food that’s past its best. Also, keeping cupboards secure is vital. Some foods are poisonous to dogs, so you don’t want a greedy pooch helping themselves and getting sick.
Having a dog as a part of your family is a wonderful and rewarding experience, and by taking the necessary steps to ensure they have good digestive health, your dog will be in the best form to give as much love and fun back.