Category: Food

As a dog owner, one of your most important decisions is selecting the proper food for your pet. Pet food can expire, and it’s essential to know if your dog’s food is expired to keep them healthy and safe. Read on to learn how to tell if your pet’s food has expired and what happens when a dog eats expired pet food.

How To Tell If Your Dog’s Food Has Expired

Most commercial pet foods have an expiration date printed on the package or contained in a code stamped onto the container. The expiration date is usually expressed as a month, day, and year, such as “Best By 07/21/2024.” It may also be described as a “Use By” date. 

The expiration date may sometimes be stamped with a “Best Before” or “Best If Used By” label instead of an expiration date. This indicates that while the product is still safe after this date, it may not have its original flavor or texture.

If you are still looking for an expiration date on your pet’s food container or bag, contact the manufacturer directly for information about when it was produced and how long it should last. 

You can also check for a production code (also called lot code) on the packaging, which typically includes numbers indicating the production month and year or other information such as “Date Code: 0331A,” which would suggest that the product was produced during March of 2021 (03), 31st day of March (31), A shift (A).

Signs of Spoiled Food

Identifying spoiled pet food is essential for your dog’s health. If the food has changed color, developed an off-odor, or shows signs of mold, it’s best to discard it. Another tell-tale sign is the presence of pests like insects or mites in the food. These physical changes often indicate that the food is no longer safe for consumption. Trust your senses; if something about your dog’s food seems off, it’s better to err on caution and not feed it to your pet.

What Happens When A Dog Eats Expired Food?

Eating expired pet food can cause digestive issues in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and dehydration. Some pet foods contain preservatives to help extend their shelf life, but these preservatives become less effective over time, so eating old food can cause more harm than good. 

Old pet foods may also contain pests like mites, which can further exacerbate dog health issues if ingested.

Health Monitoring After Consuming Food Near Expiration

After your dog consumes food close to or just past its expiration date, careful monitoring of its health is critical. Watch for signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of appetite. Changes in behavior, like increased lethargy or a lack of interest in usual activities, also warrant attention. 

If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s prudent to consult your veterinarian. Even if the food appeared fine, being cautious about your pet’s health and well-being is better. Remember, your dog’s health can offer valuable clues about the suitability and safety of its food.

Nutrient Degradation in Pet Food

Over time, the essential nutrients in pet food can degrade. This process reduces the food’s nutritional value, even if it doesn’t show visible signs of spoilage. Essential vitamins and fats are particularly susceptible to degradation. 

Feeding your dog food that has lost its nutritional integrity could lead to deficiencies despite your best efforts at providing a balanced diet. Always check the expiration date and store the food correctly to ensure your dog gets the full benefit of its meals.

Storage Tips for Pet Food

Proper pet food storage is crucial in maintaining freshness and extending its shelf life. Keep pet food in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Once you open a bag of dry dog food, consider transferring it to an airtight container. This practice preserves the food’s quality and prevents contamination from pests or other environmental factors. 

For canned wet food, refrigerate unused portions and use them within a few days. Remember, the way you store pet food can significantly impact its shelf life and safety.

Recommendations for Safe Disposal of Expired Pet Food

Safely disposing of expired or spoiled pet food is essential to prevent other animals from consuming it. Discard it in a securely tied bag within a covered trash can. If you have a compost pile, remember that adding pet food is not advisable, as it could attract unwanted pests or wildlife. 

Additionally, ensure that the disposed food is out of reach of your pets and neighborhood animals to avoid accidental consumption.

Conclusion

Understanding the expiration and storage of your dog’s food is vital for their health and well-being. By being mindful of expiration dates, storage methods, and signs of spoilage and closely monitoring your pet’s health, you can ensure they are consuming safe and nutritious meals. 

If you’re looking for high-quality, healthy dog food that your pet will love, check out Bare’s range of products. Our carefully crafted recipes are made with your dog’s health in mind, ensuring they receive only the best. Visit Bare today to explore our selection and give your furry friend the gift of wholesome, delicious meals.

As a dog owner, you want your furry friend to have the best diet possible. But how can you make sure their food is up to par? Knowing which ingredients you should avoid when choosing dog food is critical. Here are the top fifteen ingredients you should look for in your pup’s food.

15 Dog Food Ingredients That Pose Risks to Your Pet

By-Products

Byproducts are the leftover parts of animals like feet, beaks, feathers, and internal organs that cannot be used for human consumption. While it might seem like this could provide a good source of protein for your pup, there’s no way to tell what kind of animal these parts come from or if they are contaminated with bacteria or other toxins.

Corn Gluten Meal

Corn has been proven to be an inadequate source of nutrition for dogs, and it can cause digestive issues due to its high starch content. Furthermore, corn gluten meal can contain toxins that can lead to dog health problems.

BHA/BHT

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are preservatives linked to cancer in some studies and organ damage in dogs over time.

Artificial Flavors

Artificial flavors may sound appetizing, but they offer your pup zero nutritional value and can even cause digestive distress due to their synthetic nature.

Ethoxyquin

This is another chemical preservative known for being potentially toxic when ingested by dogs over long periods, so it’s best avoided entirely if possible when selecting dog food options.

Soy

Dogs don’t digest soy very well, which can also lead to thyroid problems in some cases, so it’s best avoided altogether unless specifically recommended by a vet or nutritionist for your particular pup’s needs.  

Wheat Gluten

Wheat gluten is another allergen that some dogs may react poorly to and has no nutritional value, so it’s best avoided when selecting dog food options.

Sugars & Sweeteners

These ingredients offer no nutritional benefit and can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay in dogs over time, so they should be avoided whenever possible when picking out kibble or canned foods for your furry friend!   

Animal Digest

Animal digest combines various meat sources cooked down into a flavoring agent for pet foods. Still, unfortunately, there’s no way of knowing what type of animals were included in the process, making this ingredient one that should be skipped if possible.

Salt

Too much salt can lead to dehydration and increased thirst in pups. Hence, it’s essential to watch out for high levels of sodium chloride listed on labels and for any other form, such as sea salt, which often comes up as an ingredient added to many brands’ recipes.

Refined Grains 

Refined grains like white flour, white rice, or wheat flour offer little nutritional benefits while contributing empty calories, which could lead to weight gain over time if consumed regularly.

Preservatives BHA/BHT 

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are chemical preservatives found commonly in pet foods but have been linked with cancer risks and organ damage after long-term exposure.

Artificial Colors 

While bright colors may make kibble more attractive visually, these artificial dyes offer zero nutritional benefits, so look out for them on labels when choosing pet foods!

Fillers

Fillers such as cellulose powder or cornstarch add bulk without providing any natural nutrients, so steer clear from these when scanning ingredient lists while looking at potential pet food options!

Meat & Bone Meal/Meat By-products 

Meat & bone meal or meat by-products are precisely what they sound like—leftover pieces of animal carcasses ground down into a powdery substance that offers little nutritional value while running the risk of contamination from bacteria or toxins!

Conclusion

When choosing dog food, carefully reading labels is critical to ensure your pup isn’t consuming anything unhealthy or unnecessary! Avoiding the above fifteen ingredients will help ensure that whatever brand you choose has quality nutrition written all over it! 

Researching different brands will also help ensure credibility since not all companies prioritize quality ingredients equally! With careful shopping, you’ll find the perfect option for your furry friend’s dietary needs!

As your puppy grows, their nutritional needs change. What worked for them as a puppy may no longer be the best option as they move into adulthood. Knowing when and how to switch from puppy to adult dog food can ensure your dog remains healthy and happy. 

In this article, we will explore how and when to transition from puppy to adult dog food.

When to Switch from Puppy to Adult Dog Food

Most puppies must switch to adult dog food around 12 months of age. However, the timing may vary depending on your dog’s breed, size, and individual needs. Some smaller breeds may be ready to switch to adult dog food as early as nine months, while larger breeds may need to remain on puppy food until they are 14-16 months old.

It is essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best time to make the switch. Your vet can evaluate your dog’s growth and overall health and guide you when and how to transition.

How to Switch from Puppy to Adult Dog Food

When it is time to switch from puppy to adult dog food, it is crucial to do so gradually. Switching to a new food can cause digestive upset and lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and other health issues.

To transition your dog to adult dog food, mix a small amount of the new food into their current food. For a week or two, gradually increase the amount of new food and decrease the amount of the old food until your dog is eating only the new food.

It is essential to monitor your dog’s health during the transition. If your dog experiences any digestive upset or other health issues, consult your veterinarian to determine if the new food is the cause.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Adult Dog Food

When choosing adult dog food, there are several factors to consider, including:

1. Age and Life Stage

Not all adult dog foods are created equal. Some are designed for specific life stages, such as seniors or dogs with specific health conditions. Be sure to choose a food appropriate for your dog’s age and life stage.

2. Nutritional Content

Adult dogs have different nutritional needs than puppies. Look for a food high in protein and healthy fats and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that contain fillers, byproducts, or artificial preservatives.

3. Quality

The quality of your dog’s food is essential. Look for foods that use high-quality ingredients and are made by reputable brands. Avoid generic or low-quality brands, as they may not provide the necessary nutrients your dog needs.

4. Price

While price should not be the only consideration when choosing dog food, it is still essential. Look for affordable foods that provide the necessary nutrients your dog needs. Avoid overpriced or unnecessarily expensive foods.

Conclusion

Transitioning from puppy to adult dog food is essential to your dog’s development. Knowing when and how to switch and what factors to consider when choosing adult dog food can help ensure your dog remains healthy and happy. 

Consult with your veterinarian for guidance on when to switch, and be sure to choose a high-quality adult dog food that provides the nutrients your dog needs. Your dog can live a long and healthy life with the right food and proper care.

We all know feeding our dogs the right food is essential for their health and well-being. While choosing a balanced diet is important, most owners should focus on getting enough protein in their dog’s diet. High-protein diets can help your pup stay at a healthy weight and ensure they get the necessary nutrients they need to thrive. 

So, what steps should you take to ensure your furry friend gets the right balance of protein? Let’s take a look.

Pick the Right Food

The first step to feeding your pup a high-protein diet is selecting the right food. Look for foods with protein as one of the main ingredients listed on the label, ensuring your puppy gets enough protein. 

If you want your pup to get more out of their meals, look for foods with higher animal-based proteins, like chicken and fish. Not only do these provide more nutrients, but they also taste better than plant-based proteins like soy or wheat gluten!

Monitor Meal Size

Another critical factor when it comes to feeding your pup a high-protein diet is making sure you are monitoring meal size. Know the right protein content for your dog: The ideal protein content will depend on age, breed, size, and activity level. Puppies may need smaller meal sizes than adult dogs due to their delicate digestive systems. 

So, ensure you know how much food your specific breed needs before serving meals. If you notice any signs of an upset stomach after switching, talk to your vet about adjusting your pup’s meals to determine the correct protein content for your dog’s needs.

Feed Regularly

In addition to monitoring meal size, regular feedings are essential for providing adequate nutrition in the diet. Consistency helps keep dogs from feeling overfed or undernourished, so try to eat only a few meals throughout the week or give them too much food at a time! 

You can also incorporate healthy treats into their feedings as long as they don’t replace an entire meal—think of them as a bonus!

Track Weight and Adjust Diet As Needed

Feeding your dog a high-protein diet can help them build and maintain lean muscle mass, but tracking their weight and adjusting their diet is essential. This prevents obesity or other health problems.

Choose a Balanced Diet

A high-protein diet should balance with appropriate amounts of fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Look for dog food formulas that provide a balanced diet. Bare Pet is one of the fastest-growing pet food brands that offers your pup the most honest and complete meal.

Avoid Feeding Too Much Protein

While protein is essential for your dog’s health, too much can be harmful. Excess protein can strain your dog’s kidneys and liver, so feeding your dog a diet that contains only an appropriate amount is essential.

Introduce Gradually

If you are switching your dog to a high-protein diet, it’s essential to introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset. Introducing new dog food slowly when switching to a high-protein diet is critical to prevent digestive upset. 

Dogs can experience diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation when there are sudden changes to their diet. This can be especially true when transitioning to a high-protein diet.

When switching to a portion of new dog food that is different from the current diet, it’s important to introduce it slowly for 7-10 days. This transition allows your dog’s digestive system to adjust to the new food and helps prevent sudden stomach upsets.

Here’s an example of a gradual transition to a new dog food:

• Day 1-2: Replace 25% of your dog’s food with the new food.
• Day 3-4: Replace 50% of your dog’s current food with the new food.
• Day 5-6: Replace 75% of your dog’s current food with the new food.
• Day 7-10: Replace 100% of your dog’s current food with the new food.

Watch your dog’s bowel movements and appetite during the transition to ensure they adjust well to the new food. If your dog experiences any digestive upset, slow the transition or consult your veterinarian for advice.

Provide Plenty of Fresh Water

Feeding your dog a high protein diet can increase their thirst, so ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water at all times.

The Bottom Line

Good nutrition for your furry friend is essential for keeping them healthy and happy throughout their lifetime. Feeding them a high-protein diet can help ensure they get all the vital nutrients they need while keeping them healthy. 

Remember that picking the right food and monitoring meal size are critical components of providing your dog with the nutritious meals they deserve—and adding some tasty treats now and then never hurts either! With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way toward giving your pup all the nourishment they need!

Ever wonder what’s really in those meat and by-product meals? Sometimes it’s best not to know. While not completely bad for dogs, they’re not exactly gourmet either. 

Meat meals and by-products can provide essential proteins and other nutrients, but they’re typically made of filler ingredients and low-quality proteins. At this point, it’s starting to feel like you need a degree in dog nutrition just to pick the right dog food. You’re not alone! 

With so many stories about mystery meat lurking in pet food and tons of flashy marketing, it’s tough to know what’s actually good for your furry friend. But you can sit back and relax because we’ve rounded up the best all-natural dog foods that avoid the sketchy stuff so your precious pooch can chow down healthily and happily.

The Best All-Natural Dog Foods in the Philippines

1. Bare

If you’re looking for healthy dog food that’s simple, transparent, and nutritious, there’s nothing else like Bare. The vet-approved, AAFCO-certified brand’s first kibble ingredient is real fresh chicken. It contains 18 vitamins and minerals, as well as 6 fruits and vegetables, including dried apples, spinach, carrots, and green peas. It also contains fiber-rich whole grains. 

Plus, Bare’s wet dog food uses real beef as its main protein source, blended with five other protein sources, including plant-based ones such as broccoli, kale, and pumpkin, and 13 other fruits and vegetables. Picky eaters love the flavor and texture of this palate-pleaser.

Fun fact: Bare is the first and only dog food subscription in the Philippines. This means you can save tons of money and time with Bare’s Seriously Fresh Bundle, which automatically renews every 2 weeks. If your pup isn’t satisfied, Bare promises a risk-free money-back guarantee!

Now, your furry best friend can enjoy a complete and balanced meal with none of the bad stuff – just premium, honest, and wholesome goodness made accessible for every fur parent at affordable supermarket prices. Your precious pooch is guaranteed to love Bare!

2. Nature’s Variety Instinct Original

This grain-free dry food contains no artificial flavors or preservatives. Its first ingredient is 70% real deboned chicken, beef, lamb, or salmon, followed by 30% fruits and vegetables. Instinct has high omega-3 fatty acid levels for healthy joints, skin, and coats.

3. Taste of the Wild

Taste of the Wild uses real fish or fowl meat as its main ingredient, combined with other unique high-protein sources, including venison, wild boar, smoked salmon, and roasted duck. Plus, they have grain-free and grain-inclusive alternatives depending on your pup’s dietary needs.

4. Merrick Classic Grain-Free Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe

Their grain-free, high-protein recipe features deboned chicken as its first ingredient and includes sweet potatoes as an additional source of carbohydrates. Merrick’s also contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and apples and blueberries for overall immunity.

5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe

Blue Buffalo’s dry food contains naturally deboned beef, lamb, and venison as its first ingredient. It uses whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice to provide complex carbohydrates for energy and fiber, as well as a blend of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint and bone health.

6. Acana Meadowland

This family-run Canadian brand creates its formula using fresh regional ingredients from local suppliers near their facility in Kentucky, including free-run chicken and turkey. Their recipe has no grains, gluten, or potatoes, making it perfect for sensitive stomachs!

7. Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Made from 100% Canadian-sourced ingredients, Orijen’s first 5 ingredients are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver, making their recipe 85% animal ingredients. It’s perfect for dogs who require a more nutrient-dense, protein-based diet.

8. Zignature Trout & Salmon Meal Formula

From whole lamb and goat to fresh trout and salmon to lean kangaroo meat, Zignature’s Select Cuts Dog Food series offers a wide range of meat selections. Known for their limited-ingredient recipes, both wet and dry dog food contain probiotics to support healthy digestion.

9. Fromm Gold Holistic Adult Dry Dog Food

Ideal for normally-active adult dogs, Fromm developed their formula with high-quality proteins, whole grain goodness, added probiotics, and Omega-rich salmon oil. Most of their dry dog food variations are specially formulated for all breeds and sizes, making selection easier.

10. Primal Turkey Formula Freeze-Dried Raw Nuggets Dog Food

Convenient and ready to serve in minutes, Primal’s Freeze-Dried Nuggets come in a variety of flavors and protein sources, including beef, chicken, duck, pork, rabbit, turkey, and sardines. To serve, all you need to do is portion, shred, and rehydrate with warm water or bone broth.

Key Takeaways: Top 10 All-Natural Dog Foods Without Meat Meals

So there you have it, the crème de la kibble for your furry friend! 

No more guessing games with mystery meats and questionable by-products. With these dog foods, your pup can enjoy top-notch nutrition without the sketchy stuff. Because who needs fillers and by-products when you can have real, wholesome ingredients? That’s exactly why Bare’s honest, transparent, and nutritious dog food is a winner among pups and pup parents.

Happy tummies make happy tails, so why not give your pooch a gourmet experience? After all, they’re more than just pets — they’re family, and family deserves the finest feast!

If you’re a pet parent to a new puppy, congratulations! You’ve embarked on an exciting journey filled with wet noses, wagging tails, and plenty of cuddles. But did you know that one of the most important decisions you can make for your pup is selecting the right food? It can be overwhelming to sort through all of the available choices. 

Starting your research early on will be helpful if it’s your first time caring for newly born bundles of joy or about to be one. This will allow you to have enough time to prepare everything you need. In this article, we will help and discuss what to look for when choosing the best dog food for puppies, primarily when you are residing in the Philippines.

Nutrition Requirements for Puppies

Puppies have very different nutrition requirements than adult dogs. For example, puppies need higher protein and fat levels than adult dogs because their bodies are still growing and developing. 

The type of food you feed your pup is also essential—you should look for a diet specifically designed for puppies, as it will contain just the right balance of nutrients that your dog needs during this growth stage.

Allergies and Sensitivities in Puppies

Identifying and catering to puppies with specific dietary needs or allergies is crucial. Signs of food allergies in puppies may include itching, digestive issues, or skin irritations. If you suspect your puppy has a food allergy, consult a veterinarian. They may recommend an elimination diet to pinpoint the allergen. Opt for puppy foods free from common allergens like grains or specific proteins if your pup has sensitivities.

Look for Quality Ingredients

When searching for puppy food, read labels carefully and choose foods made from quality ingredients like proteins like chicken or beef meal, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid foods with artificial colors, preservatives, and any by-products like corn gluten meal or brewer’s rice. 

These ingredients are not necessarily harmful but are often added to fill out a product’s nutritional value while reducing cost.  Additionally, ensure that the food is appropriate for your puppy’s size and breed; large breeds may need special diets tailored to their needs.

Consulting with a Veterinarian

A veterinarian’s guidance is invaluable when selecting a puppy’s diet. They can provide breed-specific dietary advice and ensure the food meets all nutritional needs. Regular check-ups allow the vet to monitor your puppy’s health and growth, making necessary dietary adjustments.

Feeding Tips

Feeding schedules also differ between puppies and adults; puppies should typically eat more frequently than adults since they have smaller stomachs and need more frequent meals throughout the day. Depending on your puppy’s age (and size), it might benefit from eating three meals daily until it reaches adulthood (around 6-12 months). 

Pay attention to your pup’s behavior; if it seems hungry after its last meal, increase portion sizes accordingly. You should also transition slowly when switching foods—mix some new food with existing food over a few days before fully transitioning into fresh food so that you can monitor how your pup reacts to it without shocking its system too much at once. Using a feeding calculator to know if you are feeding your dog just the right amount of food is also beneficial. 

Transitioning from Mother’s Milk to Solid Food

Transitioning a puppy from mother’s milk to solid food should be gradual. Mix puppy formula with a small amount of solid puppy food to create a paste. Gradually increase the solid food proportion over several weeks. This transition is critical for puppies’ digestive systems to adapt without causing upset.

The Bottom Line

Finding good dog food options in the Philippines doesn’t have to be complicated! 

Do your research beforehand and look for products that contain quality ingredients specifically designed for puppies, such as proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—avoiding any artificial colors or preservatives as well as any by-products like corn gluten meal or brewer’s rice, which can reduce cost but won’t offer optimal nutrition value. 

This not only applies to puppies but to all life stages of our dogs as well. While finding good quality puppy food may take some trial and error (not all puppies will respond positively to certain foods,) following these tips will help ensure that your furry companion gets off on the right paw with its diet! Best of luck!

Choosing the right puppy food in the Philippines is vital for your pet’s health and well-being. With careful research, attention to quality ingredients, and considering your puppy’s unique needs, you can ensure they get the best start in life. For top-notch nutrition tailored to puppies, explore Bare’s range of products. Our dog food is crafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring a balanced diet for your furry friend. Visit Bare today and start your puppy on the path to a healthy, happy life.

Seeing your furry friend refuse their food as a dog owner can be frustrating and worrying. While it’s normal for dogs to have occasional changes in appetite or food preferences, a consistently picky eater can cause concern. A dog that doesn’t eat enough can suffer from malnutrition, weakness, and other health problems. 

So, what can you do if your dog is a picky eater? In this blog, we’ll share some tips and strategies to help you entice your dog to eat and maintain their health.

Tips to Improve Your Dog’s Eating Habits

Rule out underlying health issues.

Before assuming that your dog is just a picky eater, it’s essential to ensure that no underlying health issues are causing it. Some medical conditions, such as dental or gastrointestinal conditions or infections, can affect your dog’s appetite and digestion. 

Take your dog to the vet for a check-up, and make sure to mention any changes in their eating habits.

Stick to a feeding schedule.

A consistent feeding schedule can help regulate your dog’s appetite and prevent them from becoming too hungry or full. Divide your dog’s daily food portion into two or three meals and feed them simultaneously daily. Avoid free-feeding or leaving food out all day, as it can make your dog more selective and less interested in their food.

Offer variety and rotate flavors.

Dogs, like humans, can get bored of eating the same food every day. Try to offer your dog a variety of flavors, textures, and dog food brands. You can also rotate between dry kibble, wet food, or homemade meals. However, transition slowly between foods to avoid upsetting your dog’s digestion.

Add some toppings or mix-ins.

Sometimes, some extra flavor or texture can entice your dog to eat. Consider adding healthy toppings or mix-ins to your dog’s food, such as cooked chicken, beef, fish, plain yogurt, pumpkin puree, or green beans. Avoid adding too much salt, sugar, or spices, as they can harm your dog’s health.

Make mealtimes fun and interactive.

Feeding your dog should be a fun activity. Make mealtimes more enjoyable and interactive by using puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or hiding food around the house for your dog to find. This can stimulate your dog’s mental and physical activity and make them more interested in their food.

Avoid feeding table scraps or human food.

Feeding your dog table scraps or human food may seem like a quick solution to their picky eating, but it can worsen the problem. Human food can be high in salt, fat, and other ingredients that can harm dogs. It can also encourage begging behavior and make your dog more selective about their food.

Conclusion

Having a picky eater dog can be challenging, but it’s not impossible to overcome. By ruling out any underlying health issues, establishing a feeding schedule, offering variety and rotating flavors, adding some toppings or mix-ins, making mealtimes fun and interactive, and avoiding feeding table scraps, you can encourage your dog to eat and maintain its health. 

Remember to be patient and consistent, and always consult with your vet if you have any concerns. With some love and effort, you can help your picky eater dog develop healthy eating habits and enjoy their meals.

Do you need help with a picky eater? Bare offers a range of delicious and nutritious dog food options that can tempt even the fussiest canine palates. Our variety of flavors and high-quality ingredients cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Visit Bare to explore our products and find the perfect meal solution for your picky eater. Let Bare help your dog not just eat but also enjoy every meal!

As a loving dog owner, you want to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Sometimes, that can mean addressing some less-than-ideal behaviors, like picky eating. Does your puppy turn their nose up at specific types of food or refuse to eat altogether? Is their picky eating making every mealtime a challenge? 

Don’t fret; you’re not alone! Many dog owners have experienced this issue, and in this blog, we will discuss the reasons behind picky puppy eating and how you can help your puppy embrace a healthy diet.

Tips on Dealing with Picky Puppy Eaters

1. Understanding the Causes of Picky Eating:

Picky eating can stem from a variety of causes. It might be due to your puppy’s breed, as some breeds are more fussy about their food than others. Medical issues, including dental pain, gastrointestinal problems, or allergies, can cause your puppy to become a picky eater. 

It’s essential to consult with your vet to rule out any medical issues contributing to your puppy’s picky eating behavior.

2. Making Mealtime Fun:

One way to encourage picky eaters to enjoy their food is by making mealtime fun and engaging. Instead of just placing a bowl of food before your puppy, try using food puzzles, slow feeders, or other interactive toys to make them work for their meal. This can provide mental stimulation and may help spark your puppy’s interest in the food you’re serving.

3. Introduce New Foods Gradually:

When trying to tempt a picky eater, it’s important to avoid overwhelming them with new tastes and textures. Start by introducing just a small amount of the new food alongside their regular meal. 

Over time, gradually increase the amount of the new food while decreasing the amount of the old food. This slow transition process can help your puppy become more accepting of the new food.

4. Stay Consistent and Avoid Table Scraps:

If your puppy knows they can get table scraps or treats from you when they refuse their regular food, they’re likelier to continue their picky eating behavior. Staying consistent with your feeding routine and avoiding rewarding them with table scraps or treats when they’re not eating their food is essential to break this cycle. 

Consistency is critical when dealing with picky eaters, so ensure everyone in your household knows and follows the same rules.

5. Consult With Your Vet for Customized Advice:

If you’ve tried multiple strategies to encourage your picky eater to eat and still need improvement, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian. They can provide additional guidance on diet changes or other tactics that might benefit your particular puppy. 

There may even be a medically related issue that needs addressing. So, always consider scheduling an appointment with a professional, especially when in doubt.

Conclusion

Picky eating behavior can be frustrating for dog owners, but it’s essential to be patient and persistent while you explore different strategies for helping your puppy enjoy a nutritious diet. Be consistent with your feeding routine, make mealtime fun and engaging, and consult your veterinarian for tailored solutions. 

With time, your picky puppy eater may surprise you and demonstrate a newfound enthusiasm for their meals. Always remember that a happy, well-fed puppy is more likely to grow into a healthy adult dog – and that’s the goal every dog owner should strive for.

As a caring and responsible pet owner, you always want to ensure the health and happiness of your fur baby. With access to so much information, it can be challenging to determine what is safe and unsafe to share with your beloved dog regarding fruits. 

In this ultimate guide, we will explore the list of fruits that are both safe and not safe for your dogs to consume. This way, you can feel confident about providing your pet with delicious, healthy snacks that will not cause harm but instead contribute to their well-being.

Safe Fruits for Dogs to Enjoy

First, let’s look at the fruits that are safe for your puppy to enjoy. These fruits serve as great treats and offer various health benefits, such as essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

• Apples: Remove the core and seeds, and serve in small slices. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C and dietary fiber.
• Bananas: A great source of potassium and vitamins. However, limit the frequency of consumption as they are high in sugar.
• Blueberries: These tiny fruits are potent antioxidants and offer a great low-calorie treat.
• Cantaloupe: A deliciously hydrating fruit containing vitamins A, B, and C, but should be given in moderation due to its sugar content.
• Mango: Remove the skin and pit, then serve small pieces of this vitamin-packed fruit.
• Oranges: In small, peeled sections, oranges can be a great source of vitamin C.
• Watermelon: Seedless watermelon is an ideal summer snack, packed with vitamins A, B6, and C and hydration.

Harmful and Unsafe Fruits for Dogs

Some fruits may seem harmless to us; however, they can be incredibly dangerous for your dog. These are the fruits to keep out of reach from your canine companion:

• Grapes and Raisins: These small fruits can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs, even in tiny amounts.
• Cherries: The pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, a toxic substance that can harm your pet if ingested.
• Avocado: The skin and pit contain a toxin called persin, which can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
• Figs: This can cause an allergic reaction in some dogs, resulting in severe itchy skin.

Precautions When Giving Fruit to Dogs

Although many fruits can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, taking certain precautions is essential to ensure their safety. These include:

• Always start by introducing a tiny amount to ensure no allergic reactions occur.
• Remove all seeds, pits, and cores, as they can be harmful or pose choking hazards.
• Only give fruits in moderation, as excessive consumption can cause gastrointestinal issues.
• Wash all fruits thoroughly to eliminate any pesticides or chemicals on the skin.

Why Dogs Require a Balanced Diet

While fruits can provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, it’s crucial to remember that dogs require a balanced diet to maintain optimal health. Ensure that their primary source of nutrition comes from quality dog food that contains all essential nutrients, and only give fruits as an occasional treat – not a meal replacement.

Consult Your Veterinarian for Guidance

Finally, if you need clarification on whether or not a specific fruit is safe for your dog, it’s always advisable to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance based on your dog’s health requirements and dietary restrictions, helping you make the best choices for your pet.

Conclusion

As a loving pet owner, you must familiarize yourself with the list of safe and unsafe fruits for your furry friend. By giving them the proper diet and being mindful of the potential hazards, you’re actively contributing to your canine companion’s health and vitality. 

Remember to consult your veterinarian with any concerns, and enjoy sharing the delicious, safe fruits with your happy, healthy dog.