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Fiber is important to your dog's health, providing bulk to move food through his intestinal tract. Some types of fiber can be fermented (broken down by bacteria) in the intestinal tract. This process creates short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), which are a key energy source for the cells lining the intestinal tract.
Most people are aware of fiber and its role in their diet. The beneficial effects of higher fiber levels in humans influence the way many people think about their own food—and their pets’ food. As a result, some pet-food manufacturers began to think like human nutritionists and make high-fiber diets for dogs. But high-fiber diets and the shorter digestive tracts of dogs don't always mix well. High fiber levels in dogs can cause digestive problems and interfere with proper nutrient absorption. Unlike humans, dogs are carnivorous, meaning their nutritional needs are better satisfied with meat rather than with plant materials.
For more than 60 years, pet nutritionists at IAMS™ have been studying diets to better meet the special nutritional needs of dogs. IAMS research shows that the optimal crude-fiber level for healthy dogs ranges from 1.4 to 3.5%. At these levels, nutrient digestibility is maximized.
An important characteristic of fiber is its fermentability, or how well it can be broken down by the bacteria that normally reside in the dog's intestine. This breakdown of dietary fiber produces SCFAs that provide energy to the cells lining the intestines. Different types of fiber vary in fermentability.
Fiber sources used in pet foods include cellulose, which is poorly fermentable; beet pulp, which is moderately fermentable; and gums and pectin, which can be highly fermentable.
Research has shown that moderate levels of moderately fermentable fiber, such as beet pulp, provide the benefits of energy for the intestinal lining and bulk without the negative effects of excessive stool or gas.
High levels of poorly fermentable fiber are used in some weight-reduction pet foods to dilute the calories in a serving. IAMS research found that this is not a good practice because high fiber levels can decrease the digestibility of other nutrients in the food and, therefore, can reduce the nutritional quality of the diet. You might also see more poop piles in the yard because of the indigestible fiber.
The key thing to remember about dietary fiber is that your dog's needs are not the same as yours. A moderate level of moderately fermentable fiber, such as beet pulp, provides proven nutritional benefits for dogs. Diets containing high levels of poorly fermentable fiber to dilute calorie content do not provide these nutritional benefits.
All IAMS products, including IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Adult MiniChunks, are formulated with optimal levels of moderately fermentable fiber to promote a healthy intestinal tract and enhance the well-being of your dog.
Puppies bring abundant joy to our lives from the moment we bring them home and caring for them comes as second nature to us. ‘How to take care of puppies’ is one of the most frequently asked questions by new puppy owners. But taking care of puppies is quite easy with the right method. IAMS is here to help you every step of the way in raising your puppy. From having a varied dog food range to providing tips on dog nutrition, we have got you covered.
Puppies need healthy food and a safe environment as they’re vulnerable to various types of illnesses and diseases. Also, puppies have a natural tendency to chew on objects, so it’s important to ensure that they don’t end up swallowing dangerous objects. Make sure you offer toys to your puppy to satisfy its need to chew.
If you feed your puppy healthy food from the start, it will remain healthy even in its old age. Proper nutrition from the start ensures that your puppy does not fall sick or even suffer from fur loss. Making sure that your puppy remains active is very important. A sedentary lifestyle, even for dogs, is extremely harmful to their health in the long run. All these things are an essential part of taking care of your puppy that adds to its healthy and long life.
Here is a table that will help you understand your puppy’s growth and developmental stage better:
Growth stage | 0-7 weeks | 7-8 weeks | 8-10 weeks | 8-16 weeks | 4-6 months | 6-12 months | 12-18 months |
Character traits | Puppies learn social behaviour like when to bite, submission, paying attention and general interaction with other dogs. | This is the best period for puppies to bond with humans. | This is a very vulnerable stage for the puppy, and it is best if it has positive experiences during this stage. It is also called the ‘fear period’. | You can start training your puppy during this stage. And avoid incorporating punishment for this purpose. | Your puppy may appear more confident and independent during this stage. | This is the stage when your pup is high on energy. You must ensure it does not experience boredom during this stage. | By the time your pup reaches this stage, it should have reached emotional maturity as well. |
You may begin training them at this stage with basic simple manners. | It is important to make your puppy feel good if it’s sad. | Ensure you get your puppy spayed or neutered by the 6th month. | Provide many opportunities to your dog to play with different kinds of toys. | During this phase, your dog tends to assert its dominance and hope to improve its status in your house. |
Owning a puppy feels special, doesn’t it? You have to keep a few things in mind when you bring your puppy home. Here are some tips that may help you raise your dog with ease:
You can buy supplies for your pups like stainless steel, non-tip food and water bowls.
A personalized crate that has a pillow and a blanket for your pup.
Be patient with your dog as it is learning to get acquainted with its new surroundings.
Buy premium pet food for your new friend to get off to a good start.
Buy your pup a collar and write its name and your phone number on it.
