Which Fruit And Vegetables Are Not Safe For Dogs
Although feeding your dog any new fresh food can give them a tummy upset, especially if you give them too much at once, there are a number of fruits and veg that you really shouldnt feed your dog. At all. These can be toxic, cause a blockage, or just cause a very big stomach upset. If they accidentally eat some, its probably best to call your vet for advice to be on the safe side!
Unsafe fruit and veg includes:
- Avocado can cause very upset stomach
- Cherries pits/stones contain cyanide which is toxic to dogs
- Corn on the cob the cob can cause blockages
- Garlic toxic to dogs
Health Extension Lite Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Food
Best Pea-Free Dog Food for Seniors: As your dog starts to get older, his metabolism may slow down, and his risk for obesity increases. If youre looking for the best legume-free dog food for an older dog, we recommend this Health Extension Lite Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Food. This formula features fresh chicken as the primary ingredient, a lean source of protein, supplemented by chicken meal as a concentrated source of lean protein. This recipe contains whole-grain carbohydrates like brown rice and oatmeal with supplemental fiber from flaxseed and dried beet pulp. It contains a rich blend of omega fatty acids for skin and coat support with bone- and joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. This formula is rich in protein at 24% with just 9% fat and 288 calories per cup, making it a great option if your dog needs to lose weight or if youre concerned about him gaining weight. This recipe is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals as well as dried fermentation products for probiotic support.
- Pros: Fresh chicken as main ingredient, digestible whole-grain carbohydrates, rich blend of omega fatty acids, supplemental fiber for healthy digestion, probiotics, glucosamine and chondroitin for joints
- Cons: Some dogs may be sensitive to chicken ingredients
Why Are Peas Added To Dog Food
Peas are used as a tool in sustainable agriculture because they are able to add nitrogen back into the soil. One of the reasons peas have become so popular in pet food is due to the increase in grain-free diets. All dry pet foods, including grain-free diets, contain a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
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Warnings About Feeding Peas To Your Dog
- If your dog has kidney problems, avoid feeding them peas. Peas contain purines, a chemical compound that produces uric acid. Properly functioning kidneys can filter uric acid, but if your dog has kidney problems, an exorbitant amount of uric acid can cause kidney stones and other conditions.
- Potential choking hazard. Some dogs can eat sugar snap peas and snow peas whole in the pod, but for others, the pea pods can be a choking hazard. To be safe, only feed your dog shelled, little round peas, which are easier to swallow.
Alternative Legumes Lentils Or Chickpeas
As mentioned previously, legumes are very commonly used as a source of carbohydrates in dog food. If your dog suffers from an allergy or intolerance to Peas but is fortunate enough to not have the same adverse reaction to other legumes such as Lentils or Chickpeas, then the task of finding a nutritious dog food can be far less challenging.
Alternative legumes such as Chickpeas and Lentils share a similar nutritional profile to Peas, which is what makes them so attractive to dog food brands.
They are relatively high in protein for a vegetable and contain dietary fiber to help promote and sustain healthy digestion. Chickpeas also provide a high level of Manganese and Copper, while Lentils can provide Iron and Folate.
Unfortunately, many dog foods tend to use a mix of legumes rather than just one source. This mixed approach is used in order for the legume ingredients to appear lower down the ingredient list.
This technique is sometimes known as Ingredient Splitting and is one of the more sinister methods employed in the pet food industry. Despite this, there are a large number of formulas available that only contain a single type of legume. Find out more about this subject in our article Ingredient Splitting in Pet Food Exposed.
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Myth #5corn Is Rich In Vitamins And Minerals
Fans of corn also like to claim the grain is high in anti-oxidants and minerals.
High in anti-oxidants and minerals? Compared to what?
Aside from its energy content, corns nutritional completeness is certainly not exceptional.
The Nutrient Balance Completeness Score is a measure of how complete a food is with respect to vitamin, mineral and dietary fiber content. The higher the score of a food, the more complete its nutrients.
According to information gathered by NutritionData.com8 from the USDAs National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, the Completeness Score for corn and a number of other common ingredients are listed here in increasing nutritional value
- Brown rice
So, when it comes to judging its vitamin and mineral content, corn is mostly unremarkable.
Canned Foods For Dogs Pros & Cons
Cons:
- May have an unpleasant odor
- Cannot be left out all day as it will attract insects and bacterias thus spoiling fast.
- More expensive than semi-moist
- Must be refrigerated to maintain health standards
Pros:
- Some dog pets prefer canned food taste
- Maybe more suitable for those medical conditions that need higher water intake.
- May have lesser preservatives used than dry dog foods
- Keeps much longer, until you open the can
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What Potential Connection Is The Fda Investigating
FDA is investigating a potential dietary link between canine dilated cardiomyopathy and dogs eating certain pet foods containing legumes like peas or lentils, other legume seeds , or potatoes as main ingredients. We began investigating after FDAs Center for Veterinary Medicine received a number of reports of DCM in dogs eating these diets.
DCM itself is not considered rare in dogs, but these reports are unusual because many of the reported cases occurred in breeds of dogs not typically genetically prone to the disease. Additionally, most of the cases ate diets that appear to contain high concentrations/ratios of certain ingredients, such as peas, chickpeas, lentils and/or various types of potatoes. Some of these were labeled as grain-free, but grain-containing diets were also represented.
What Meat Should Dogs Avoid
The bones in meat, chicken and fish can also be very hazardous to your dog. They can splinter and stick in the throat, break teeth or cut the intestines. If you are unsure if you can feed a food to your dog, always consult your veterinarian first.
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Benefits Of Peas For Dogs
- Contain vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium, folate, thiamin, and manganese.
- Helpful for vision, skin, digestion, immune system, nerves, heart, and more.
- Great source of fiber .
- Low in calories and readily available year round.
- Additional hydration, especially on a hot summer day.
Sportmix Premium High Energy 26/18
This makes the top of our worst dog foods list because of the sheer number of dogs that were affected by the aflatoxin levels found in several Sportsmix products, including this one.
Many pets have died and many more were left ill.
But even without the aflatoxin situation, this recipe was not a particularly good one to begin with. We normally like dog foods that start with a meat ingredient because that shows that meat makes up the most volume in the recipe. However, we arent sold on byproducts, and this recipe starts with one.
When byproducts are mentioned, it means this is what is leftover after the meat is removed. So a chicken byproduct meal is essentially dried out chicken leftovers that may include organs but also other stuff like hide, hair, or intestinal contents .
Are these harmful to your dogs? No. Are these nutritious? They can be. But are these high-quality ingredients? Definitely not.
Aside from the byproduct meal ingredient, this recipe also contains meat meal. But that ingredient is ambiguous. What animal was used? Which part/s?
The thing about unnamed ingredients is that it could mean anything. The meat could be sourced from one animal or it could be sourced from several. Its not a quality ingredient, thats for sure.
The recall involved 50- and 44-pound bags of Premium High Energy with an expiration of either March 2 or 3, 2022. The recall was later expanded to include more recipes and the updated toll numbered over 70 dogs dead and at least 80 more ill.
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Pro Pac Performance Puppy
This recipe is designed for puppies from weaning until the 12th month. Its also billed as an excellent feed for pregnant or nursing canines.
We dont find anything wrong with the ingredients because it starts with chicken meal, an animal protein. Ground yellow corn as the second ingredient may be a little bit off, but still not bad. Whats more concerning is the recent recall of this product.
The maker of this recipe is Midwestern Pet Foods, the same manufacturer of Sportsmix, Nunn Better, and Splash Fat Cat.
The company is currently embroiled in one of the worst pet food recalls to date concerning aflatoxin, a possibly fatal type of toxin that was found in Midwestern Pet Foods Sportsmix products.
Included in the recall are two Pro Pac recipes. This particular formulation and the Pro Pac Adult Mini Chunk.
Recall Info: On January 11, 2021, and FDA alert was issued on the Pro Pac Adult Mini Chunk, 40 lb. bags and Pro Pac Performance Puppy, 40 lb. bags manufactured in Midwestern Pet Foodss Oklahoma plant with expiration dates of July 9, 2022 or earlier.
This is an expanded recall that was issued out of caution since the Pro Pac recipes were produced in the same plant as the Sportsmix foods that have caused the deaths of more than 70 dogs and the illness of around 80 at least.
Problem Ingredients: none
What Is Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy
DCM is a disease of a dogs heart muscle and results in an enlarged heart. As the heart and its chambers become dilated, it becomes harder for the heart to pump, and heart valves may leak, which can lead to a buildup of fluids in the chest and abdomen . If caught early, heart function may improve in cases that are not linked to genetics with appropriate veterinary treatment and dietary modification.
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Can Dogs Eat Peas Are Peas Good For Dogs
Pets, especially dogs, are just as much a part of the family as anyone else. And if humans can eat peas then it would stand to reason that our faithful companions could too. But before you go filling up your dogs water bowl with fresh shelled pea pods or throwing them into his food dish thinking he will love this addition, it is important to understand the potential health benefits or risks involved with feeding your dog peas.
Are Peas Safe For Dogs
Home> Blog> The Industry > Are Peas Safe for Dogs?
People who choose to become pet parents dont take this responsibility lightly. Regular walks are a guarantee, picking up poo becomes as routine as reaching down for the newspaper, and belly rubs are expertly given whether using hands or feet. These terms & conditions are non-negotiable. Another responsibility of pet parents, bigger than dare I say even belly rubs, is staying informed about whats best for their dog. So naturally, DCM and taurine are on most pet parents radars, either mentioned during pickup at the doggy day care or in passing during your weekend visit to the dog park.
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Myth #6corn Is A Superior Source Of Energy
Some pet food manufacturers like to point out that corn is a better source of energy especially for working animals than meat.
However, science proves this to be yet another myth.
Consumers shouldnt favor a dog food because protein is the first ingredient. They should choose a dog food because meat is the first ingredient.
Thats because meat doesnt just contain protein it also contains fat.
Corn is mostly fat free. Its a carbohydrate.
From a scientific standpoint and not marketing hype heres the actual energy scorecard for each of the 3 macronutrients9 found in all food:
The following caloric information is based upon the USDAs National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference and published by NutritionData.com10:
As you can see, ounce-for-ounce, science proves meat contains significantly more energy than corn.
What To Look For When Shopping For Dog Food
The lesson to take away is that unless your dog really needs a grain-free diet, it may be best to avoid grain-free dog food. Dogs that are not allergic or sensitive to grains can actually benefit from the inclusion of whole grains in their diet there is nothing inherently healthier about a grain-free diet versus a regular dog food. You should always keep your dogs unique nutritional needs and dietary preferences in mind, but it is your responsibility to choose a safe and healthy diet for your dog.
Here are some general things to look for when shopping for a dog food without peas and legumes:
As you can see, these five things can be applied to a wide variety of different products. As long as your dogs nutritional needs are being met, you have the freedom to choose from a wide variety of dog foods. If youre not sure where to look for the best legume-free dog food, simply consider one of the 10 options weve reviewed below.
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Why Are Peas So Popular In Dog Food
- Ingredient
- Nutrition
- Dog Food
Dried peas belong to the family of pulses, which also includes lentils, chickpeas, and beans. Peas are one of the worlds oldest crops. As a nutrient-dense food source that is locally grown in Canada and the United States, dried yellow and green field peas are appealing to health- and environmentally conscious consumers. Peas are used as a tool in sustainable agriculture because they are able to add nitrogen back into the soil.
One of the reasons peas have become so popular in pet food is due to the increase in grain-free diets. All dry pet foods, including grain-free diets, contain a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Carbohydrates are an energy-providing nutrient that allow greater flexibility in creating pet food recipes with different nutrient levels. Also, the shape, texture, and density of kibble is dependent on the carbohydrate content of the food. It is important to note that grain-free does not equal carbohydrate-free as these foods typically contain one or more non-grain carbohydrate sources. These include pulses , tapioca, potato, and sweet potato.
Codys Blend Homemade Dog Food Recipe
This recipe was sent in to us from Dawn Kline. She makes all the meals for her dog Cody and has even . She tells us that she started cooking all-natural, real food for her dog about two years ago and he loves it. Her dogs favorite recipe is in the book is called Codys Blend and he eats this for his dinner every day.
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Video Answer: Eat This Not That: Dog Edition
Yes, pariah dogs are feral dogs, that is ones which live freeranging. The term is usually applied to those which live aroundhuman settlements and feed on our waste. There are self sustainingcommunities of these dogs, but of course strays can also take upthe lifestyle.
Safe: Some Vegetables.
Your dog can have a healthy snack of carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices, or zucchini slices.
Even a plain baked potato is OK.
Don’t let your dog eat any raw potatoes or any potato plants from your pantry or garden.
Farmina Natural & Delicious Wild Cod & Ancestral Low
Best Pea Free Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach: If your dog has a sensitive stomach or food allergies, you need to be careful what you feed him. Look for a recipe made with a limited number of high-quality, digestible ingredients that is free from whatever is triggering your dogs allergy. This Farmina Natural & Delicious Wild Cod & Ancestral Low-Grain Formula is a great option because it contains fresh, wild-caught cod as the main ingredient and a novel source of animal protein. It also contains digestible whole grains like spelt and oats with nutritional support from dried fruits and vegetables. This recipe features a high protein content with moderate fat and calories, making it a great option for dogs in all life stages. It is supplemented with fiber for healthy digestion with chelated minerals to ensure optimal nutrient absorption. Overall, this recipe contains 92% protein from premium animal sources, and it is a low-carb, low-glycemic recipe which helps improve its digestibility while also keeping your dogs blood sugar stable.
- Pros: Low-glycemic formula, wild cod as main ingredient, digestible whole grains, dried fruits and vegetables, chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption, rich in omega fatty acids
- Cons: Very expensive to feed as a staple diet, not a single-source protein recipe
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Alpo Come & Get It Cookout Classics
ALPO is a known dog food brand that may look to many as a quality pet food. But as turns out, its not. Or at least, this particular recipe isnt.
This formulation does not start with meat. In fact, the first meat ingredient wont be found until the 3rd slot in the list. And the only other meat is in 6th place.
What starts off this food is ground yellow corn, meaning that corn has the most significant volume in the diet. Not only that, there are two more corn ingredients in the recipe and one legume.
Its a formulation that focuses more on carbohydrates rather than protein. It meets the AAFCO standard, yes, but does not really go much above it.
The second thing we dont like is the inclusion of artificial food coloring. Color is not a requirement in dog food, and dogs will be better off without it. The less artificial ingredients in dog food, the better.
The Come & Get It! Cookout Classics is the least of the worst dog foods in our list because it contains real and named meat ingredients.
Recall Info: None for this recipe, and the only recall for the ALPO brand happened way back in 2007 for possible melamine contamination.
Problem Ingredients: Ground yellow corn, corn germ meal, soybean meal, corn gluten meal, Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 2, Yellow 6