8 Dog Food Ingredients That Are Super-Healthy for Your Dog

What is the healthiest food for my dog? This is a question that most dog owners ask. Since most brands contain meat that isn’t real or even unnatural ingredients, many people find it challenging to find healthy dog food for their four-legged friend.

As a dog owner, it is crucial to find healthy food options for your pet. This way, you can provide them with the right nutrition so they can lead a happy and healthy life.

Feeding your dog with high-quality ingredients will not only boost the overall quality of your dog’s life but will make him have the right weight, strong teeth, and have more shining coats.

These superfoods also make significant additions to your dog’s diet.

Below are seven ingredients you might want to introduce to your dog’s diet. You can introduce them gradually and in the right proportions. Also, be sure to check with your veterinarian if your pet has a history of health issues.

1.       Pumpkin

Just like humans, dogs suffer from indigestion issues. You can help your dog maintain a healthy digestive tract by giving him pumpkin. This is due to its low-calorie content and high soluble fiber.

It also contains significant amounts of carotenoids, vitamin C, and potassium. It is low in sodium and has some vitamin B and calcium.

You can find canned organic pureed pumpkin at food stores. It is, however, important to ensure that it’s pure, with no sugar and spice additives. Most dry food recipes such as Holistic Select Duck Dog Food contain pumpkin in their ingredients. Its balanced nutrition with digestive support formulation that helps your dog lead a quality life.

2.       Fish

Some oily fishes, for instance, sardines, salmon, herring, and anchovies contain a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s plays a significant role in the development of brain, skin, coat, alongside limiting inflammatory processes that can lead to arthritic and other chronic dog conditions.

If your dog has a history of these chronic conditions, be sure to talk to your vet to see if fish oils can be helpful.

Fish is also an essential source of protein, with numerous essential vitamins and minerals.

3.       Yogurt

Necessary friendly bacteria, also known as probiotics can help eliminate bad bacteria. Yogurt, which is known to boost gut function contains numerous nutrients, such as calcium, protein, potassium, zinc, vitamin B12, and iodine.

It also contains significant amounts of other B vitamins, including pantothenic and riboflavin, which are required for energy production and enzyme action, alongside other cellular functions.

4.       Kefir

Kefir is fermented goat milk.

It contains numerous major friendly bacteria strains that aren’t available in yogurt. What’s more, it contains friendly yeasts, which goes a long way in controlling yeast overgrowth in dogs.

It also contains several vitamins and minerals as well as many probiotics for super healing properties.

Some studies suggest that kefir can help fight E. coli and salmonella. It can also prevent dog allergies.

It has also been touted to help with pancreatitis, gastritis, skin psoriasis, abdominal peptic issues, anemia, weakening of bones, arthritis, and leaky gut.

5.       Raw

There is certainly a fair bit of controversy surrounding the raw diet. While the nutritional benefits of uncooked meat are superior and species-appropriate, its best to stick with freeze-dried raw food. The freeze-drying kills off any pathogens that might be present in the food. Also, when shopping for raw pet food, it’s best to buy organic and products manufactured by reputed US brands. Raw meaty bone can help keep your dog’s teeth in good condition.

6.       Carrots

Most dogs like carrots. They are naturally sweet and are loaded with fiber, carotenoids, both vitamin C and K, which are required for blood clotting, and potassium.

They also contain most of the B vitamins, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorous, which are needed for the production of energy, among other important things.

7.       Quinoa

Quinoa is commonly considered a grain. It is a complete protein consisting of all essential amino acids. It is also an excellent source of fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, as well as many phytochemicals.

Being one of the few vegetables with complete proteins, quinoa helps reduce the risk of diabetes and is a potent antioxidant.

8.       Blueberries

You can find blueberries all year round. They contain phytochemicals, which are an excellent treat for your canine friend.

It also loaded with anthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants. They also offer manganese, fiber, as well as vitamin C and E.

We would recommend you to introduce it to your dog in small amounts because taking it in large amounts can affect your dog’s bowel movements.