Food Guidelines – The Dogington Post https://www.dogingtonpost.com Your Source for Everything Dog Thu, 12 Sep 2024 23:13:15 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Dogs Can Now Accompany Their Owners For Outdoor Dining https://www.dogingtonpost.com/dogs-can-now-accompany-their-owners-for-outdoor-dining/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/dogs-can-now-accompany-their-owners-for-outdoor-dining/#respond Wed, 03 May 2023 12:30:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=55777 Dogs can now accompany their owners and enjoy outdoor dining according to the updated 2022 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food code

As per the updated FDA food code, as long as state and local laws and the restaurant approves it, dogs can freely join their owners while dining alfresco.

Axios also noted that restaurants cannot discriminate based on a dog’s breed. They cannot allow a small dog breed but decline a medium to large dog breed.

However, the FDA says dogs, regardless of breed, are still not allowed indoors or anywhere food is prepared. Even walking inside a restaurant to go to an outdoor patio is not allowed.

The only exceptions to these rules are service dogs, which are generally allowed inside and outside of restaurants.

dog looking at salad
Yurii Onyshchenko / Shutterstock.com

In saying this, emotional support dogs, cats and other animals (unless they’re service animals) are still NOT allowed to dine outdoors with their owners.

As it stands, there are currently 23 states that officially allow our furry friends at the outdoor patio of restaurants, according to the Animal Legal & Historical Center of the Michigan State University.

Rebecca Wisch, Associate Editor at the Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center said, “As people do more socializing with their pets, states have begun to recognize this through changes to certain laws. The country is certainly changing with how companion animals are viewed, even at mealtime.”

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6 Egg-celent And Safe Easter Dog Treats For Your Pet https://www.dogingtonpost.com/easter-dog-treats-for-your-pet/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/easter-dog-treats-for-your-pet/#respond Wed, 05 Apr 2023 12:45:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=54824 Easter is just around the corner. And if you celebrate the holiday with a furry friend, then they must be hopping with excitement to take part in your Easter festivities! And what better way to get your pooch excited than by surprising them with tasty Easter dog treats?

Below, we have rounded up some egg-celent, tasty and safe Easter dog treats for your furry friend to enjoy. Continue reading to find out!

A group of dogs with bunny ears headbands at an Easter party
Kasefoto / Shutterstock.com

Choosing The Right Easter Dog Treats

Every-bunny, including your dog, loves and deserves a tasty Easter treat. But remember that there are Easter do’s and dont’s for your furry friends. And they cannot have nor enjoy the same Easter treats their hoomans have.

We all know that chocolates are a no-no for our four-legged friends because they are toxic for them. So, when choosing Easter dog treats, make sure they do not have the following ingredients:

  • Chocolate, especially dark chocolate
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Xylitol

Furthermore, chocolates are not the only tasty treats your dog can enjoy on this holiday. There are other delicious treats that your pooch can have during your Easter fesitivities.

Top 6 Egg-celent And Safe Easter Dog Treats

As alternatives to chocolates, we have listed six tasty and safe Easter dog treats that you can fill your dog’s Easter eggs with.

1. Exclusively Dog Pet Sandwich Cremes (Carob Flavor)

Exclusively Dog Pet Sandwich Easter Dog Treats
Credits: Exclusively Pet

You can now let your dog safely enjoy “chocolate-y” treats on Easter with these dog sandwiches from Exclusively Dog.

These sandwiches are the perfect alternative to chocolate cookies. That’s because instead of chocolate, these treats are made from carob, which is a sweet yet healthy and safe substitute to chocolate.

Furthermore, these treats include a creme filling inside, look like Oreos and smell like real cookies, but for dogs! They are also made from natural ingredients and come in other flavors such as peanut butter and vanilla. And you can easily purchase these safe and egg-celent treats on Amazon:

2. Thoughtfully Pets’ Bone-Shaped Cookie Gift Set

Thoughtfully Pets Dog Cookie Gift Set for Easter
Credits: Amazon

Make your pooch’s Easter egg-stra special with these bone-shaped cookies from Thoughtfully Pets. These cookies are the perfect Easter dog treats – specially made for dogs AND are Spring-themed!

This dog cookie gift set includes 8 peanut butter-flavored, crunchy treats that come in 3 different designs. Furthermore, these treats are non-GMO, dairy free, soy free and can be purchased on Amazon:

3. Stewart Freeze Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats

Stewart Freeze Dried Beef Liver Easter Dog Treats
Credit: Stewart Pet

If you’re looking for savory Easter dog treats to put in your pooch’s Easter egg, then Stewart’s freeze dried beef liver dog treats surely fit the bill!

These treats are made with one, simple ingredient – beef liver. And they are healthy treats made for dogs of all shapes and sizes. They are also packed with nutrients and protein that supports strong muscles.

Aside from beef liver, Stewart’s freeze dried treats also comes in other flavors such as chicken breast and salmon. And you can buy them off of Amazon:

4. Bonne et Filou Easter Dog Treats Box

Bonne et Filou Easter Dog Treats Box
Credits: Bonne et Filou

If you’re feeling a bit fancy for Easter and want to give your dog the best possible Easter gift, then Bonne et Filou’s Easter Dog Treats Box is what you’re looking for.

This box of dog treats includes macarons and different Spring-themed cookies that your little pooch will surely indulge in. Furthermore, they are handmade, made from human grade ingredients and are available on Amazon:

5. Chewsday Knotted Bacon

Chewsday Knotted Bacon Dog Treat

Another savory Easter dog treat that your furry friend can enjoy is Chewsday’s Knotted Bacon dog chews. These dog chews are rawhide-free and are only made with natural and safe ingredients. However, they are only made for adult dogs and are not suitable for dogs under one year of age.

But if your adult dog is a heavy chewer, then these dog chews are perfect! They also come in three different flavors: Bacony Sizzle, Chicken Delight and Peanutty Bliss.

You can easily purchase these savory and rawhide-free treats here:

Preview Product Price
Chewsday Knotted Bacon LG 7ct Chewsday Knotted Bacon LG 7ct $22.99Amazon Prime

6. Lazy Dog Cookie Mutt Mallows

Lazy Dog Cookie Mutt Mallows Natural Healthy Treat Variety
Credits: Amazon

Viciously delicious and naturally nutritious – this is how Lazy Dog Cookies describe these delightful dog treats. These Mutt Mallows are made from safe ingredients, so you don’t have to worry about giving them as Easter dog treats to your furry friend.

These soft-baked treats are free from ingredients such as corn, soy, wheat, refined sugar and other preservatives. And they also come in a variety of flavors such as Maple Bacon, Banana, Roasted Vanilla and Strawberry.

And if your pooch is having his/her own Easter egg hunt and will surely rely on their nose to find treats, then these are perfect because they smell flavorsome and fresh. Furthermore, you can also easily purchase them off of Amazon:

Make Easter Fun AND Safe For Your Pooch

Mother and child color Easter eggs with their dog with bunny ears
FamVeld / Shutterstock.com

Easter should not only fun for the hoomans, but also for the little furry friends we have at home.

Keeping your dog away from anything that can harm them and including them in your Easter festivities makes the celebration more fun and memorable.

And we hope that the Easter dog treats we listed above can help you make Easter fun, safe and egg-celent for your little pooch!

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Feeding Dogs Certain Table Scraps Could Help Their Health, Study Says https://www.dogingtonpost.com/feeding-dogs-certain-table-scraps-could-help-their-health-study-says/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/feeding-dogs-certain-table-scraps-could-help-their-health-study-says/#respond Wed, 22 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=53065 lake 39

According to new research, feeding your dog table scraps and the occasional bone or raw meat may actually make them healthier.

A diet for puppies and young dogs that includes non-processed meat, dinner table scraps, and raw bones may shield your pet from gastrointestinal illnesses later in life, according to a new study from the University of Helsinki in Finland that was published in the journal Scientific Reports.

Raw bones and unprocessed meats may save dogs from developing gastrointestinal problems like chronic enteropathy (CE), whereas processed dog meals may have the reverse impact.

“Proactive owners can provide a variety of whole foods and species-appropriate leftovers for the puppies and young dogs, even as an addition to a kibble-based diet,” study author Anna Hielm Björkman said. 

The researchers examined information from the DogRisk food frequency questionnaire, which was developed at the university in 2009, describing the diets of 4,681 puppies and 3,926 adolescent dogs. In all, 1,016 (21.7%) of the puppies and 699 (17.8%) of the adolescent dogs had chronic enteropathy (CE), or gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and loss of appetite.

“Canine chronic enteropathies (CE) and human infammatory bowel diseases (IBD) share many similarities,” the researchers wrote in their paper. “Symptoms include persistent and/or recurrent vomiting, diarrhea, intestinal sounds and gas, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, nausea and/or weight loss which last longer than three weeks. The symptoms have severe and stressful impacts on the dog’s life and increase the caregiver burden of the owner.”

Dog owners were questioned about what and where their pets were fed at various stages of their lives. They were also questioned about any health difficulties their dog had, as well as when and how often they had them.

While the exact causes of CE in dogs and IBD in adults are still unknown, the research has revealed some potential triggers, including genetic predisposition, decreased gut microbial diversity, and even ingesting highly processed meals.

“In humans, the Western diet which contains ultra-processed foods and high amounts of sugar has been connected to IBD risk. Thus a greater understanding of dietary choices and dietary components that are a risk or can have a protective effect can help in preventing the disease. As early dietary exposures are modifiable, the dog owners would then have a chance to act proactively and have an impact on their dog’s health,” the researchers added.

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What Vegetables Are Good For Your Dog? https://www.dogingtonpost.com/what-vegetables-are-good-for-your-dog/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/what-vegetables-are-good-for-your-dog/#comments Mon, 20 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=53053 1 3

Vegetables are not just good for humans, but dogs too. Depending on the vegetable, they can eat it raw, steamed, cooked, grilled, or baked. Whatever way you choose, just remember not to put any seasoning in it. 

Vegetables have many benefits for your dog. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. They can aid with digestion, hydration, and alkalizing of the body. Overall, it’s a healthy food choice to incorporate into their diet. 

There are many vegetables that are safe for your dog to consume, but some can be harmful to them. Check out this list for some of the vegetables you can feed them!

Peas 1

Peas

All of the pea varieties—snap, English, sugar, and snow peas—are excellent vegetables for dogs. The majority of the B-complex vitamins, along with Vitamins A, C, and K, are all abundantly found in peas. They are also a great source of fiber, folic acid, and protein. Just stay away from canned varieties because they may be higher in sodium or preservatives. 

Peas are excellent for increasing the protein content of homemade dog food, but keep in mind that your dog will not be able to absorb plant-based proteins as effectively as animal-based proteins. As a result, avoid substituting peas for meat.

Carrots

Carrots

Dogs love carrots. It’s crunchy and fun to chew on. Additionally, chewing them prevents plaque buildup. Carrots are a great snack for dogs because they can be consumed raw, have few calories, and cause less gas. It offers plenty of fiber in addition to vitamins B, C, D, E, and K. If you want to give your dog some hydration that is vitamin-rich, you can even give them carrot juice instead of water. On a hot day, chilled grated carrots also serve as a refreshing snack.

Celery

Celery

Celery contains numerous vitamins, including antioxidants A and C, that will keep your dog healthy and even help to freshen their breath. It’s a healthy option for dogs, whether it is cooked or raw, and many of them love its incredibly crisp texture. 

Before giving the celery stalk to your dog, spread a tiny dollop of unsalted peanut butter on it for an extra-special treat. However, keep in mind that not all dogs respond well to celery, so you should avoid giving it to your dog if they experience gastrointestinal problems or experience urinary changes after eating.

Broccoli

Broccoli

Numerous vitamins included in broccoli, such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium, help dogs’ hearts and bones and fight disease. Just be careful not to overfeed your dog because it could irritate their stomach. Isothiocyanates are a group of chemicals found in broccoli. And when eaten in large amounts, they can cause mild to severe stomach discomfort in some dogs. When serving broccoli, moderation is certainly the key. Additionally, be sure to slice the stalks properly since if they are too large, they could become stuck in your dog’s throat.

Potatoes

Potatoes

Since so many dogs love them, potatoes are frequently found in both commercial and homemade pet diets. Potatoes do include some Vitamin C and a bit of Vitamin B6, even if they aren’t as nutrient-dense as some of the other vegetables on this list. In order to make raw potatoes easier to digest and reduce the danger of obstruction when swallowing, you can steam or blanch them before blending them into a puree.

A dog’s primary dietary need is meat, so following a strict vegetarian diet can be difficult. It takes a lot of planning and preparation to supply a dog or puppy with the proper nutritional balance they require without meat. When giving your dog vegetables, consult your veterinarian for more information.

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Can Dogs Eat Cheese? https://www.dogingtonpost.com/can-dogs-eat-cheese/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/can-dogs-eat-cheese/#respond Fri, 17 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=52849 lake 38

Cheese is high in nutrients such as calcium, protein, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins A and B12. However, is what’s safe for humans also safe for dogs?

Can dogs consume cheese? Yes, a lot of dogs can. 

While cheese is not poisonous to dogs, they lack the digestive enzyme lactase, which means they are lactose intolerant from birth. And being lactose-intolerant can cause flatulence, discomfort, diarrhea, or vomiting

Cheese is normally fine to serve to your dog as an occasional treat, and as long as you avoid fatty cheeses. Cheese includes significant levels of saturated fat and sodium, in addition to issues with lactose intolerance. This can make your dog obese if they consume it frequently over an extended period of time. If a dog is sensitive to fat, it may even develop pancreatitis the first time they consume cheese.

Give your dog a small quantity of cheese or any other dairy food, including milk, to see how their body responds before feeding them more. Pet owners should generally choose cheeses that are low in fat, sodium, and calories, and they should always be aware of any additional ingredients that can be harmful to their dogs.

Not every type of cheese is the same. Compared to cheeses with greater fat content, low-fat cheeses like mozzarella, cottage cheese, and soft goat cheese may be better for your dog. When looking for dog-friendly cheeses, be careful to pay special attention to the ingredients. Some cheeses contain herbs and vegetables that might be poisonous to dogs, including chives or garlic

If you decide to give your dog cheese as a special treat during training or to hide medications, make sure the servings are small and infrequent. Only 10% of your dog’s diet should consist of treats of any kind. A well-balanced dog food should provide the remaining 90%.

And as always, before giving cheese to your dog, always visit your veterinarian to decide the best type and serving quantity.

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Protein Choices For Your Dog https://www.dogingtonpost.com/protein-choices-for-your-dog/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/protein-choices-for-your-dog/#respond Mon, 06 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=52735 1

Meats, eggs, dairy products, some grains, and legumes are all sources of protein. As opposed to fat and other nutrients, protein cannot be stored by the dog’s body, and therefore it must be included in the dog’s regular diet. Your pet’s protein requirements will vary depending on their age and level of exercise.

You need to be aware of your options if you’re looking for protein supplements to add to your dog’s diet. If you’re trying your hand at recipe development, knowing the healthiest sources might help you come up with a well-balanced food that your veterinarian will approve of.

Here are the best protein sources for dogs:

fish

Fish

A healthy protein to include in your dog’s diet at any time is fish. Fish is a great source of protein for dogs who need a diet with a moderate number of calories because it has a high protein but low-fat content. It’s also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin D. Smaller, more delicate fish typically have greater mercury levels than larger fish, so keep that in mind when choosing fish for your dog. Make sure the fish you choose for your dog is wild-caught rather than farm-raised. Genetically engineered foods are fed to farmed fish, which may be bad for your dog’s health.

eggs

Eggs

Eggs are a fantastic source of nutrition for your dog because they are packed with essential nutrients that boost a variety of canine health conditions. Some vitamins and minerals include vitamin A, vitamin b12, Iron, Selenium, Folate and Riboflavin. Although many canines can benefit greatly from eggs, it should be noted that some may become sensitive to them. Egg allergies affect 4% of dogs worldwide. Eggs provide a lot of protein, fatty acids, and vitamins on their own, but excessive consumption can cause obesity. Additionally, you should never feed raw eggs to your dog since they may still contain salmonella, which can be harmful to them.

turkey

Turkey

Your dogs can get great protein from poultry like chicken and turkey. For dogs who need to manage their weight, turkey is a great option because it has less fat than beef and other red meat. Under the direction of a veterinarian, turkey can be an important part of a homemade dog food diet when cooked simply. The white parts of the turkey breast, if cooked, are the healthiest for your dog. Because they are more difficult for your dog to digest, fatty turkey parts like the skin are not as good.

duck

Duck

Duck is a meat with a darker color and is a nutrient-rich selection for your dog. Additionally, it’s a very healthy form of protein that is suitable for dogs that react poorly to more conventional proteins like chicken or beef. Duck is a fantastic source of amino acids, which maintain healthy muscles. Because it naturally contains fatter—but less saturated fat—than other meats, duck is a great choice for dogs that are very active. This helps in refueling the output from regular muscular use and high-calorie burn. Additionally, it contains a good amount of B vitamins, which guard against common cancers. Foods formulated with ducks are sometimes recommended for dogs suffering from food sensitivities or allergies.

venison

Venison

Another fantastic meat substitute for the usual meat found in dog food sold in stores is venison. Deer meat is high in vitamins B6 and B12, as well as niacin, riboflavin, and zinc. This combination promotes the general immunity and organ health of your dog. Compared to other red meats, venison often has significantly less fat and cholesterol. The majority of venison used in dog food is in the form of concentrated meals, but if it’s correctly prepared, you can also use deer meat from wild deer. If you don’t hunt, it could be difficult to find, but it is a leaner option to some fatty red meats.


Remember that certain dogs may have issues with a high-protein diet because it may make their medical conditions worse. And every time you add a new food to your dog’s diet, keep a cautious eye out for any indications of food allergies.

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Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal? https://www.dogingtonpost.com/can-dogs-eat-oatmeal/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/can-dogs-eat-oatmeal/#respond Mon, 16 Jan 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=52516 lake 30

Oatmeal is a staple breakfast for some of us. It’s cheap, easy to make and can be modified to your taste. But can your furry friends eat oatmeal? 

The answer is yes, your dog can eat them. But there are a few considerations you should make before giving your dog this food. Because like everything else, too much can ruin your pup’s diet

For dogs who could be sensitive to wheat or other grains, oatmeal is an excellent substitute for other carbohydrates. Linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that contributes to the strength and health of the skin, is abundant in oats. Additionally, they are a good source of soluble fiber, which can assist in controlling blood sugar levels.

Oatmeal is marketed by several pet food manufacturers as a prominent component in their products. This healthy alternative has few calories and fats, and it has fiber, which may benefit dogs with digestive issues.

Read the label on your oats container before you checkout.

As opposed to processed grains, make sure the variety you buy contains only whole grains. Processed grains don’t have as many of the health advantages that whole grains do. Stick to organic oatmeal kinds if at all possible. These will have a higher nutritional content than other commercially produced oats and be free of pesticides and other contaminants.

Oatmeal that is safe for pets can be made by simply cooking the oats in water. Never give your dog raw oats. They may seem like a wonderful, crunchy treat, but your dog may find them to be very difficult to consume. They are difficult to chew and swallow, creating a choking hazard, and they are also exceedingly difficult to digest.

No milk or sugar should be added to the mixture, and no nuts or brown sugar should be sprinkled on top of the oats. Because their bodies can’t break down lactose as efficiently as humans can, dogs are particularly sensitive to dairy, so we advise sticking with water. You can include some fruit, such as blueberries or bananas, but only in small quantities.

But remember that oatmeal should not be made as a total meal replacement. If you are having issues, check with your veterinarian before feeding oatmeal to your dog. 

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How Long Can Dogs Go Without Eating? https://www.dogingtonpost.com/how-long-can-dogs-go-without-eating/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/how-long-can-dogs-go-without-eating/#respond Fri, 23 Dec 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=52327 lake 22

If your dog feels sick and loses his appetite, how long can he go without food? The most frequent symptom of many medical issues for dogs is loss of appetite. This is one of the reasons it’s so crucial to watch out for additional symptoms and take your dog to the vet if he isn’t eating.

With the exception of small-breed puppies, who are vulnerable to hypoglycemia, the majority of healthy dogs can go three days without eating and still be well. Many even have a five-day span. But this is assuming that during this period they are still consuming water. If your dog is unhealthy, he probably only has the capacity to go three days without meals. However, if your dog isn’t eating, you shouldn’t wait that long.

Even though it is a general idea, keep in mind that each dog is different. Your dog might not be able to go as long without food if he isn’t as healthy or if his metabolism is different.

If your dog goes 48 hours without food, you should call your veterinarian at the latest. But if he is showing worrying symptoms even before the 48 hours are over, immediately take him to the doctor. One of the things the vet will do right away after examining your dog is to try to determine why he isn’t eating. As soon as you see your dog refusing food, you can also investigate some of these potential problems at home.

If your dog is a picky eater and refuses to eat, try adding meat to the food or making mealtimes enjoyable for the dog. If your dog is obese, missing a few meals could be better for your pet. Dog obesity has become a serious issue in the US, largely as a result of overfeeding and insufficient exercise. Consider what the dog has eaten in the previous 24 hours before feeling guilty over skipping dinner.

But when it comes to not drinking water, this is more concerning than going without food. Considering how rapidly they can become dehydrated, dogs can last longer without food than they can without water. You should call your veterinarian if your pet doesn’t drink anything for an entire day because it could cause dehydration. Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing, weakness, gagging, and weight loss are all indications that your dog may be dehydrated if they aren’t drinking.

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Did You Know That Wet Food Is Seven Times Worse For Climate Than Dry Food? https://www.dogingtonpost.com/did-you-know-that-wet-food-is-seven-times-worse-for-climate-than-dry-food/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/did-you-know-that-wet-food-is-seven-times-worse-for-climate-than-dry-food/#respond Wed, 07 Dec 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=52248 lake 19

According to a recent study, feeding cats and dogs wet food has a considerably greater climate impact than feeding them dry food, suggesting that pet owners can drastically lower their carbon footprint by making small adjustments.

The Brazilian study examined the environmental effects of pet food, including greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water usage, and discovered that a wet diet produced more than seven times as much CO2 as a dry diet.

According to the research, a typical dog’s wet food diet left the same “ecological pawprint” on the animal as it did on its human owner. With an estimated 840 million cats and dogs on the planet, the environmental effects of feeding them are coming under scrutiny.

The Brazilian researchers examined 320 different diets for cats and 618 different diets for dogs, ranging from dry kibble and biscuits to wet food in cans and pouches. The diets were those provided by three major Brazilian pet food retailers, although a few homemade diets were assessed too.

The research, which was published in the journal Scientific Reports, shows that a 10 kg dog eating roughly 500 calories per day in dry food would emit 828 kilograms of CO2 annually, but 6,541 kg of CO2 annually if fed a wet diet. That is almost as much as the annual carbon footprint of the typical Brazilian, which is 6,690 kilograms. The study also noted that there were estimated to be more dogs in Brazil than children.

“Cat and dog owners could significantly reduce the environmental impact of their pets’ diets by feeding them dry food (consisting of kibble or biscuits) rather than wet food with higher water content,” the study said. 

“These results highlight the extensive environmental impacts of pet foods, the need to make them more sustainable and an indication of how this may be achieved.”

Previous studies in Japan also discovered that a dog’s ecological footprint can be comparable to that of a Japanese citizen. 

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Thanksgiving Food: What Can You Feed To Your Dog? https://www.dogingtonpost.com/thanksgiving-food-what-can-you-feed-to-your-dog/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/thanksgiving-food-what-can-you-feed-to-your-dog/#respond Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:30:54 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=52200 1 4

Thanksgiving is almost here! With the table full of food, you just can’t help but share some with your dog. But are all foods safe for them to eat? Accidental poisoning, upset stomachs, vomiting and diarrhea can happen if you’re not careful as a pet owner. You can always include your pet in the Thanksgiving celebration, just be mindful of what you give them. Here we list out the foods you can share with your furry companion as you celebrate Thanksgiving this year!

Sweet Potato

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes not only taste good, it’s also good for them! They are a nutritious snack low in fat and rich in vitamins B6, C, and A. Additionally, sweet potatoes are also rich in fiber, helping prevent the overgrowth of any bacteria and helping the colon recover. Since raw sweet potatoes are hard for dogs to digest, always cook them before serving them. Make these separately, ideally without any butter, garlic, sour cream, bacon, marshmallows, brown sugar, or other flavorings. You can easily give your dog a nutritious treat by simply skinning, cutting, and roasting a sweet potato. But like many other fruits and vegetables, this should be given to your dog in moderation and as occasional treats, not as part of a regular diet. Even if something is healthy, it should never be given in excess as this could cause an allergic reaction or intolerance.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin

Pumpkins are also another traditional Thanksgiving ingredient that you can give to your dog. It provides fiber, potassium, iron, and vitamins A and C. Plain pumpkin is great for dogs. Cooked and mashed pumpkin without added salt can help calm an upset stomach, improve digestion, reduce anal gland problems, prevent hairball buildup, and help dogs with both constipation and diarrhea. When feeding pumpkin from a can, make sure it is pure pumpkin and not the pre-seasoned pie mix.

Turkey

Turkey

As long as it’s not prepared with any seasonings, turkey is good Thanksgiving food for your dog. When prepared with spices, oil and butter, it can cause pancreatitis and other issues. Remove all the other ingredients and make sure they’re only getting turkey meat. Large quantities of garlic and onions are toxic to dogs and will cause digestive upset. Take the skin off the turkey. Even for humans, the skin is usually the least healthy part of the bird because it has the highest fat content and is frequently served with a lot of seasoning. Make sure you feed them in only small quantities!

Apples

Apples

Apples contain a good amount of fiber and vitamins A and C. If you make apple pie, save a few slices and mash or chop them up for your dog. Just make sure the seeds and skin have been removed, as apple seeds can be poisonous.

Green Beans

Green Beans

Green beans are a great source of vitamins and minerals for your dog. You can give them canned, frozen, fresh, cooked or raw green beans. Just make sure they are plain and do not contain any additional ingredients. You can certainly put green beans on your dog’s Thanksgiving plate, but you shouldn’t give your dog a green bean casserole. Along with the fat, casseroles frequently include toxic ingredients for dogs like onions and garlic.
Avoid foods with fatty proteins, stuffing, mashed potatoes, chocolate and even the smallest amount of alcohol. If you’re having guests over for dinner, make sure to tell them not to feed your dog any of the dangerous stuff. Or, to be sure, tell them to feed the dog nothing at all. Always keep a close eye on your dog during the holidays and have a happy Thanksgiving!

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Vegan Diet Is The Best Diet For Your Dog, A New Study Says https://www.dogingtonpost.com/vegan-diet-is-the-best-diet-for-your-dog-a-new-study-says/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/vegan-diet-is-the-best-diet-for-your-dog-a-new-study-says/#respond Tue, 17 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=45834 Untitled design 5

It is usual for domesticated dogs to be fed conventional meat-based diets. However, a new study in the open-access journal PLOS ONE suggests that a vegan diet is associated with better health for your pet. 

The study, which was participated in by more than 2,500 dog owners, aimed to explore the health outcomes of feeding different diets to dogs. Three main diets were given to the dogs during the research: half ate conventional meat, a third were fed raw meat, and 13 percent had a vegan diet

“Our study is by far the largest study published to date,” said Prof. Andrew Knight, at the University of Winchester, UK, who led the study. “It revealed that the healthiest and least hazardous dietary choices for dogs are nutritionally sound vegan diets.”

The survey results revealed that dogs on traditional diets were less healthy in general than dogs on raw meat or vegan diets. The analysis of the study was based on the questions including the dogs’ health and medications, how often they visited the vet, and other specific health issues. Additionally, dog owners were asked to share their opinions on their dog’s health as well as what they thought of their veterinarian’s assessment.

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Overall, half of the dogs who ate conventional meat diets needed more non-routine medication than those on vegan diets. Some of the dogs that were fed raw meat diets were marginally healthier than those on vegan diets. However, this may have been because they were on average a year younger. 

Furthermore, Knight pointed out that obesity is one important factor to look at. Commercial meat-based diets have more calories and contribute to one of the most common health problems in dogs, which is being overweight. 

It is important to consider your dog’s needs before going vegan, as it may not be suitable for them. Consult with your veterinarian first before applying this type of diet. 

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Dog Diet: A List of Human Foods Dogs Can’t Eat https://www.dogingtonpost.com/a-list-of-human-foods-dogs-cant-eat/ https://www.dogingtonpost.com/a-list-of-human-foods-dogs-cant-eat/#respond Fri, 06 May 2022 08:57:41 +0000 https://www.dogingtonpost.com/?p=45295 Sharing our food with our pets is something many of us, if not all, have done. Who hasn’t slipped the dog something to eat under the table? Or given them the scraps from our dinner plates? But did you know that there’s a lot of human foods dogs can’t eat?

Many of our foods, no matter how delicious, can be dangerous to a dog’s body and cause health problems.

Don’t poison your dog by mistake. See below list of human foods dogs can’t eat.

List of human foods dogs can’t eat

1. Alcohol

dog posing beside a glass of beer
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No sharing your beer or gin and tonic with your dog. Alcohol is toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors and depression of the central nervous system. In worst cases, it can also cause death.

2. Avocado

corgi dog biting an avocado
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Avocados can cause tummy pains including vomiting and diarrhea. These fruits contain a substance called persin which is highly toxic in most animals, including dogs.

3. Chocolate

cute dog with one of the most common human foods dogs can't eat, chocolate
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Chocolate is one of the most commonly known human foods dogs can’t eat. It contains a stimulant diuretic called theobromine. This affects the dog’s central nervous system and cardio vascular.

If you believe your dog has eaten chocolate, you must seek veterinary advice immediately. Ingestion of chocolate can cause death. Cooking chocolate contains the most theobromine followed by dark chocolate, milk chocolate and white chocolate.

Dogs love the taste of chocolate. So make sure to take all precautions and ensure that you do not leave chocolate lying around.

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, hyperactivity muscle tremors, increased urination and increased heart rate.

4. Coffee and tea

dog sniffing owner's cup of coffee
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Caffeine affects the central nervous system and the heart. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning can include vomiting, a racing heart and in severe cases, death.

5. Fat trimmings from ham and other meats

dog looking at a plate of roasted chicken at thanksgiving
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Never give your dog fat trimmings from meat, especially from ham. High fat consumption could lead to a bout of pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis can range in severity from mild to life threatening and is an extremely painful condition. Turkey skin is also high in fat content. And because of this, vets see an increase in pancreatitis cases over Thanksgiving and Christmas.

6. Grapes, raisins and sultanas

dog sticking out his nose on a bunch of grapes
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Fruits like grapes and its dried variety, including raisins and sultanas, can cause kidney damage to dogs. And the early signs include repeated vomiting and hyperactivity.

Furthermore, pets who have ingested these fruits in large quantities have reportedly passed away.

7. Macadamia nuts

macadamia nuts are one of the human foods dogs can't eat
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Macadamia nuts have been known to cause tremors and muscle weakness in dogs.

8. Milk and dairy products

dog eating an ice cream cone
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Other types of human foods dogs can’t eat include milk and any dairy product.

It has been reported that as many as 50% of dogs are lactose intolerant. Many dogs’ digestive systems do not handle milk or dairy products well. And the usual symptom is severe diarrhea.

9. Onion and garlic

a basket of onions and garlic infront of a dog. these are human foods dogs can't eat
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Onions and garlic contain a substance called thiosulphate. And when ingested, dogs can develop Haemolytic Anaemia, which causes destruction of the red blood cells.

10. Potatoes and potato sprouts

dog sniffing potatoes out of its owner's hands
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Potatoes contain solanine glycosides. And they can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, nervous system stimulation, depression, trembling, paralysis and cardiac arrest.

11. Salty food

human foods dogs can't eat because they're too salty
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Like how humans should avoid food which are too salty, you should also avoid giving the same to your dog.

Conclusion

Now that you’re aware of the human foods dogs can’t eat, you always have to be careful what you feed your pet.

While dogs can eat some human foods, feeding in moderation if at all, is key. If unsure, it’s always best to do your research or consult your vet before feeding your pet.

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