Ava Williams
Dogs’ digestive systems are often not as robust as some outsiders might think. The stomach and intestines of numerous dogs are quite sensitive to new and wrong types of food. Dog owners should therefore observe exactly how their four-legged friend reacts to certain food and also consider changing the food in the event of health problems. If a dog does not tolerate conventional dog food or only very poorly, special food is often the only way. This food is then specially tailored to the needs of sensitive dogs and only contains ingredients that even a sensitive stomach can digest well. What dog owners need to consider when choosing food differs from animal to animal.
When dogs are sensitive to food
A food allergy is often suspected when there are negative reactions to dog food. Ingredients such as wheat, egg, milk, and soy can trigger numerous symptoms that negatively affect the general condition of the dog. This can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and hair loss. But the digestive tract can also react very sensitively if the dog does not tolerate the ingredients of the respective food. Vomiting, diarrhea, or persistent loss of appetite then the result. In any case, dog owners who discover the symptoms of intolerance in their animal should not take it lightly. If the dog is constantly given the wrong food, this can even cause the symptoms to become chronic in an emergency. It is then very difficult to restore the dog’s physical health.
Feed manufacturers usually know that they should also have special types of feed for sensitive dogs. As the number of sensitive dogs continues to rise and the willingness of owners to feed them appropriately, there is a market for hypoallergenic and gentle food. However, dog owners do not recognize such food at first glance. A particularly gentle recipe can be advertised on the packaging of a type of feed, while the ingredients still cause problems. In the event of persistent symptoms that can be associated with the food, dog owners should therefore definitely consult a veterinarian. Within the scope of some examinations, he will find out the cause of the reactions of the dog’s body and then make recommendations. Responsible dog owners should follow these recommendations when it comes to choosing their food.
Feed seasonally and age-appropriately
There are different phases in a dog’s life during which a particular sensitivity can arise. Not every food is equally suitable for very young dogs as well as for senior dogs. Intolerance and digestive problems can also occur suddenly, although there have been no problems so far. Barf can do the same, a very special form of feeding can be a solution for sensitive dogs. This method is strongly based on the natural needs of the animal. The owner has full control over all ingredients of the daily feed and can actively influence tolerance by using different powders and types of meat.
However, dog owners do not always have time to deal with BARF. Then it is worth taking a look at types of food that do not contain any allergens. In addition, such a feed should not contain any chemical additives. However, since ordinary dog food often contains coloring or flavor-enhancing ingredients, a detailed look at the list of ingredients is crucial. Even if synthetic ingredients have not yet been specifically linked to intolerance and allergies, it makes sense to avoid them to test all eventualities.
To offer their dog an additional gentle diet, dog owners should also pay attention to a fixed feeding routine. The dog is then fed in such a way that times and amounts are not constantly changing. This ensures that the dog’s body is relieved and does not always have to adapt to new conditions. It also makes sense for dog owners to ensure a hygienic feeding environment. Hygiene in summer is particularly important, as germs can quickly multiply in the dog bowl. Then the food is not responsible for digestive problems and changing the manufacturer or the product range will have no effect.
Food for acute gastrointestinal problems
Even dogs that otherwise have a rather robust digestive system can be dependent on special types of food in the context of gastrointestinal disease. If dog owners observe a persistent deterioration in their general condition, rapid action is required. “If the patient vomits continuously or suffers from persistent teardrop-like diarrhea, there should be no hesitation in contacting a veterinarian, just as if there is a clear disturbance in the general condition, fever, noticeable abdominal pain, or blood in the feces or vomit. In general, four-legged friends who suffer from diarrhea or vomiting for more than 2-3 days should always be presented to a veterinarian.
If the dog has survived a gastrointestinal illness, it must slowly be accustomed to normal food again. This works best if dog owners have self-prepared food ready during the transitional period, which is particularly gentle.