We all know that fiber is crucial for a healthy human diet. But did you know that our furry friends need fiber too? It’s true! Depending upon what you feed your dog, they could be missing out on key health benefits. But worry not: in this article, we’ll go over the best sources of fiber for dogs. You may find yourself amazed at the positive impact consuming fiber can have on your pooch’s health. So, let’s jump into everything you need to know about getting fiber for your Fido!
What Fiber Does
Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate that comes from edible plants. It is a non-digestible material because the enzymes in the small intestine are unable to break it down. Once it gets to the colon, bacteria digest the fiber, creating short-chain fatty acids. SCFAs have several benefits that promote bodily well-being. To name a few, SCFAs help:
- Reduce inflammation
- Defend against obesity
- Prevent metabolic disease
- Provide energy for colon cells
- Protect the gut lining
- Bolster the immune system
Why Fiber for Dogs is Important
To put it simply, fiber can help potty time go smoother for dogs, which in turn can benefit their humans. Because this material helps to firm up stools, fiber for dogs can mean better bowel movements.
Introducing fiber to a dog’s diet can help with:
Weight Management
Fiber for dogs can help your pup get fuller, faster. When your canine companion gets the nutrients they need, they’ll be less likely to overeat. In this way, fiber may be helpful in preventing obesity.
Digestion
Fiber helps matter move smoothly through the gastrointestinal tract so nutrients and water can be better absorbed. Fiber can even bind to toxins that are sitting in the gut and get rid of them.
Diarrhea
Some types of fiber can absorb water, firm up stools, and support a healthy gut. All of these great qualities can help bring a dog relief when they suffer from liquidy stools.
Constipation
When a dog is straining to defecate because of large, hard, or dry stools, fiber can help. The material can help draw water into stools and promote smooth intestine movements.
Gland Issues
Anal glands in dogs get emptied from the pressure of a stool exiting the body. Fiber helps to bulk up stools so that these glands can empty properly and avoid infection or impaction.
Fiber also has antioxidant properties. It may even help prevent cancer by speeding up the elimination of carcinogens. Fiber is not 100% essential for dogs to consume. However, this nutrient can be very beneficial for dogs no matter how healthy they already are.
How to Find Fiber for Dogs
You probably know which human-food items on the grocery store shelves are good sources of fiber. Things like whole-grain products, fruits, and vegetables. But how can you go about finding good sources of fiber for dogs?
Does your dog have food allergies? Read The Ultimate Guide to Hypoallergenic Dog Treats
Fiber Treats for Dogs
Sometimes kids don’t want to eat their veggies, so you have to sneak some nutrition into yummy foods that they already love. And guess what? This strategy works the same with dogs! Hold a raw vegetable up to your dog’s nose and they’re not likely to bite. But tempt them with a delicious treat and they won’t be able to get enough!
Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber. However, trying to feed your pooch a large, uncooked chunk of this food is not a good idea. They may choke or have trouble digesting it. You can try to boil, dehydrate, or mash sweet potatoes for your dog, but there’s no guarantee that they’ll like the smell or flavor.
That’s why fiber treats for dogs are so great! They’re formulated specifically with dog dietary health in mind. It’s not a good idea to feed your dog human snacks like sweet potato chips. Instead, let them enjoy this delicious ingredient by indulging in fiber treats for dogs.
Blue Ridge Naturals offers a wide selection of sweet potato fiber treats for dogs. No matter your pup’s culinary preferences, they’re sure to find something they love. Here are just a few of the delectable options on our menu:
Sweet Potato Bones: Wheat free, a great source of protein, and mouth-wateringly good.
Chicken Wrapped Sweet ‘Tater Stix: For the dog who needs a little meat to help their veggies go down, packed with calcium and iron. (These Sweet Potato and Chicken Breast are another great option).
Sweet ‘Tater Fries: Made with only one ingredient and loaded with natural vitamins and minerals, perfect for healthy snacking.
We’ve also got sweet potato treats that are coated with peanut butter or pork! Like our sweet potato fillets with human-grade chicken breast and our Peanut Butter Coated Sweet Potato Bones. Can’t decide which one your dog would prefer? Try out our Sweet Potato Sampler! This pack will keep your dog’s tail wagging for a long time. Even better: these treats feature fiber.
Try Out Sweet Potatoes to Get Fiber for Dogs
Sweet potatoes have more benefits than just being fiber-rich. They contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. They are chock full of vitamins A, C, B6, and more. To promote optimal gut health and up nutritional intake, sweet potato treats may be a smart choice.
