A healthy dog is a happy dog. Effective digestion in dogs will guarantee that. Gut microbes are microorganisms that live within a dog’s digestive tract. They affect a dog’s nutrient absorption, digestion, weight, and mental well-being.
Microbes can cause irritable bowel syndrome and other disorders. That’s why proper digestive care dog food is crucial to a dog’s gut health.
A dog that digests food well will produce energy efficiently. Improved digestion means longer walks, extra playtime, restful sleep, and overall good health.
Indigestion and its symptoms
The efficiency of a dog’s digestion depends on factors such as age, breed, activity and hydration levels, and the type of food consumed. Generally, however, there are a couple of food types that are harder to digest than others.
For instance, many veterinarians advise pet owners against giving their dogs chicken bones as they are not digested easily. Also, sharp bone ends can scratch digestive tract linings, leading to serious gastrointestinal issues.
Dogs may also have allergies to certain foods. So, if your canine hasn’t been able to digest food well, it may be an allergic reaction. It could also be indicative of a more significant issue.
In any case, you should take your dog to a pet clinic immediately if you notice any of the following indigestion symptoms.
- Breathing difficulty
- Incessant vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Low energy levels
- White gums
- Dehydration
The veterinarian can guide you through taking care of your dog and making any necessary diet changes. Adequate digestive care dog food will help prevent all these unpleasant ailments in dogs.
How to improve your dog’s digestion?
You can do the following to ensure your canine friend has a regular bowel movement and overall good health.
Healthy diet
It is not a good idea to give dogs human food. Dogs are carnivorous and need a high-protein diet. You should also avoid giving them grains as they may also cause allergic reactions. Ensuring the diet is low-fat is essential.
Raw food
There are natural enzymes in raw meat that boost your dog’s gut health. However, you should be careful while giving your dog raw food as it can go bad quickly. Also, some owners may need to supplement raw food if their dog has trouble digesting it.
Probiotics
Veterinarians recommend giving your dog daily probiotic supplements. They contain healthy microbes that break down fiber and sugars into fatty acids and vitamins. They also prevent respiratory problems and keep your dog’s digestive system healthy. Natural probiotics are often available in yogurt and meat.
Vaccines
The primary, vital vaccines you get your dog as a puppy are enough to protect him for seven to fourteen years – the approximate lifespan for most dogs. Any other vaccine beyond that is mostly unnecessary and may cause allergies, indigestion, lethargy, or sometimes, even death.
Activity
Typically, it takes about eight to ten hours for dogs to digest their food. But the exact time may differ depending on the breed. Lethargic dogs have poor digestion. That’s why dogs need sufficient physical activity to turn the digestive care dog food in their stomach into energy.
Ensuring effective digestion in dogs directly impacts their quality of life. It’s a boost to their immune system that makes them healthier and, thereby, happier.
