Obesity is a common problem in dogs, but you can help your pet lose weight. Identifying the causes and following a total weight-management program can result in controlled weight loss and maintenance. A total weight-management program includes evaluating the animal, educating the pet owner, modifying behaviors, and tailoring the program to individual situations.
Obesity is defined as an increase in body weight, beyond the limitation of skeletal and physical requirements, resulting from an accumulation of excess body fat.
Obesity is caused when caloric intake exceeds caloric expenditure. This simply means that a dog eats more energy (calories) than it uses and stores the excess energy as fat.
There are many factors that can contribute to obesity:
Fat
Fiber and Fatty Acids
Carbohydrates and Special Ingredients
In addition, a diet that contains L-carnitine can help dogs metabolize fat. L-carnitine is a vitamin-like compound that helps burn fat.
A total weight-management program can lead to successful weight reduction in the obese dog. Complete evaluation by the veterinarian is always recommended, and owner compliance is essential to success.
IAMS™ and professional veterinary products provide optimum nutrition for animals that can benefit from a weight-management program.
Just as in humans, gut health plays a pivotal role in a dog's overall health and well-being. But what exactly is gut health?
Essentially, it refers to the balance and functioning of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, specifically the gut microbiome, a unique collection of thousands of different types of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. This delicate ecosystem is crucial for almost every aspect of your dog's health, from nutrient absorption to cognitive functions.
However, our pet’s commercial diets, medications like antibiotics, and excessive indoor living can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, leading to canine digestion issues such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), immune system reactions, indigestion in dogs, and behavioural changes.
Fortunately, it's possible to restore and maintain your dog's gut health, while addressing signs of indigestion in dogs. Join us as we discuss the best ways to promote healthy dog digestion.
Improving your dog's gut health involves addressing any signs of digestive issues in dogs, and working towards a well-balanced gut microbiome. Here are 4 of the best ways to improve your dog’s gut health, and in turn your dog’s digestion:
Introducing probiotics into your dog's diet can help build good bacteria and balance their microbiome. Probiotics increase immune resistance against harmful bacteria, fight intestinal infections, and provide nutritional support during digestive issues. You can try products like IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement, which contains the probiotic Bacillus Subtilis. This helps degrade organic matter in the feces, reduce ammonia production and fecal odour, and promote the growth of good bacteria. To keep these beneficial probiotics thriving, consider adding soluble fibers into their meals, such as squash.
Regular exercise and playtime can significantly improve your dog's gut health. Exercise reduces stress, which can weaken its immune system and cause inflammation. Finding the right level of exercise for your dog's life stage and maintaining that routine can help manage canine digestion and overall health.
Feeding your dog a nutrient-dense, biologically appropriate diet can positively impact their gut health. Dogs require meat protein for optimal health, and raw meats rich in live enzymes can enhance digestibility and nutrient absorption. Including bone broth in their meals can also increase nutrient absorption and help restore the gut lining.
Just like humans, dogs can benefit from exposure to a variety of environments. This can help diversify their gut microbiome, leading to better digestion and overall health.
Indigestion in dogs is often a clear sign of poor gut health. Some other signs of digestive issues in dogs that you should watch out for are:
These signs could indicate a disrupted gut microbiome that needs attention. By taking steps to improve your dog's gut health, you'll be supporting their overall wellness and helping them lead a happier, healthier life.
If you notice signs of indigestion in dogs, such as diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, vomiting, or any changes in their behaviour, it’s crucial to consult with a vet. While occasional digestive issues can occur in dogs, persistent symptoms could indicate a disruption in their gut microbiome.
Investing in your dog's gut health through a comprehensive approach of diet, exercise, environment exposure, vet consultations, and supplements, can significantly improve their overall well-being. This will help to ensure healthy canine digestion, and a happier, healthier life for your furry friend.