Here are the 10 best high-fiber dog food for your furry friend: puppy, adult, and senior dog.
Fiber reduces cholesterol levels in our bodies. It also supports cardiovascular and digestive health. This makes it a must-have food component. But what about our furry canine companions? Do they benefit from fiber?
The answer is yes. Fiber is key in canines. They need it for gastrointestinal health. Additionally, fiber lowers the chances of diabetes, colitis, and obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight prevents other health issues, extending the lifespan of your dog.
Fiber is an essential ingredient for your dog’s diet due to its positive effects. However, finding the correct meals might be difficult. This is a result of the rising number of dog food companies. Some brands say their recipe is the greatest because of the competition.
The improper food purchase could expose your dog to other health problems, such as digestive disorders, unhealthy weight growth, and allergies. How can you tell a fraudulent marketing gimmick from a legitimate claim?
There is no cause for concern. By choosing the top 10 high-fiber dog foods, we have already done the legwork for you. Since we extensively researched them before creating this list, you can serve them to your dog without risk.
We also provide information on the qualities of the top high-fiber dog foods. This assures you to buy the appropriate recipes, even those that aren’t on our list. See more below.
Benefits of High Fiber Dog Foods?
High-fiber recipes have numerous benefits, and the major ones are given below.
Boost immunity
The good bacteria in your dog’s intestines are fed by fiber. This stimulates the formation of butyrate and other short-chain fatty acids. In the immune system, butyrate aids T cell development, lowering chronic inflammation. Inflammation is the main cause of most diseases. Lactic acid bacteria also feed on fiber. This raises the colon’s acidity to combat the development of harmful germs that might cause illness.
Cleans the gut
The gut is effectively massaged by fiber to lessen inflammation and clean the mucous membranes. Additionally, fiber can attach to toxins in the gut and then flush them out in the stool. It keeps the gut balanced, which controls bowel movements and preserves the colon’s health.
Improves anal gland issues
Adding fiber to a dog’s food can help when it has problems with its anal glands or defecation. Fiber makes the stools bulkier; a larger stool can assist the empty anal glands.
Sources of Fiber for Dogs?
From grains to veggies, fiber is found in most foods, but here are the best sources of fiber for your pooch.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a highly versatile squash loved by both human beings and canines, and it is a great source of fiber and nutrients. You can include pumpkin in your dog’s diet or provide them with a refreshing summer treat by freezing small pumpkin cubes to give them on those scorching days of summer. Introducing it gradually lowers the risk of gastrointestinal problems.
Ground flaxseed
Besides its high volumes of omega-3s, ground flaxseed is a powerhouse of fiber. You can sprinkle it on your pup’s food, mix with peanut butter before serving it to your fido, or serve it as a treat by rolling it into a ball.
Beet pulp
Although it has been seen as a filler product, beet pulp is one of the finest sources of fiber. Beet pulp is the residue of processing sugar beets that is colorless, stringy, and easily digestible. Including it in your dog’s food increases the food’s fiber content.
Dark leafy greens
Green veggies are excellent fiber sources. They are also low in calories for a healthy weight. Cut them into slices to lower the risk of choking.
Apples
Another way to give your dog natural fiber is to serve it apple slices. Apples boost digestion and immunity thanks to their fiber and antioxidant levels. Always remove the core and seeds before giving apples to your dog.
Carrots
Carotene, abundant in carrots and a source of vitamins A, K, and B6, keeps your dog’s eyes healthy and bright. Dogs can also get a lot of healthy fiber from carrots, which helps ensure they obtain their daily requirements of vitamins and minerals.
Kelp
Sea kelp or kelp is rich in fiber. It is an excellent choice for dogs prone to digestive issues like constipation.
Wheatgerm
It contains healthy nutrients like folic acid, and vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that prevents inflammation while boosting immunity. Additionally, wheatgerm is full of fiber for a happy digestive system.
What Are the Properties of the Best High-Fiber Dog Food?
As mentioned earlier, the pet food industry is highly competitive. The competition has forced some manufacturers to use false claims that they have the best high-fiber dog food. We give you the qualities to watch out for and avoid falling into their trap.
Whole protein should feature as the first ingredient.
Fiber is important in your dog’s diet. However, dogs are also carnivores; meat is critical for muscle wellness. Whole proteins, including turkey, chicken, and beef, are best for your pup. Ingredients in all dog foods are listed according to percentages. When protein is the leading ingredient, you are assured that the meal has high protein content.
Free from unidentified meat meals or by-products
Although meat meals and some by-products are beneficial, unidentified meat meals and by-products may cause more harm than benefits. They could be from unhealthy sources like dead or sick animals.
Free from artificial additives and fillers
Poor-quality brands use cheap fillers and add artificial ingredients to their food to attract customers and lower the production price. Go for meals with no colors, preservatives, or flavors. Wheat, corn, and soy are fillers that add bulk to the food.
Include health-boosting nutrients
Healthy nutrients include omegas, antioxidants, probiotics, and prebiotics. These work together to support the immune system, skin, coat, and digestive wellness. Probiotics blend well with fiber for a healthy gut function.
Made in countries where safety and health standards are adhered to
Choosing well-regulated recipes ensures you do not expose your dog to other health issues. Countries like the USA, New Zealand, Canada, Western Europe, and Australia are the best as they strictly adhere to safety standards.
Increased fiber content
Look for foods with a fiber content of 6-10. Excellent ingredients to watch out for include apples, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, brown rice, psyllium husk, and flaxseed. These ingredients are fiber-dense.
What Are the Top 5 Brands of High-Fiber Dog Food?
High-quality brands include the above features in their recipes. Below is a list of the leading 5 brands for the best high-fiber dog food.
- Natural Balance.
- Rachel Ray Nutrish.
- Earthborn Holistic.
- Wellness.
- Dr. Tim’s.
Every brand has a different price depending on various factors, including the ingredients used. However, the average price for our top ten formulas is $3.06, and the price range is $1.72-5.57 per lb. Your dog’s breed and life stage are key determinants when choosing the best high-fiber dog food.
Puppies need lots of calories and proteins. This is because they are still growing. On the other hand, senior dogs are less active and hence require a low-calorie recipe. Here’s a summary of the best high-fiber dog food.
- Best Overall: Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low-Calorie Dry Food – $69.98 per 28-lb bag ($2.50-lb).
- Best Budget-Friendly: Rachael Ray Nutrish Dry Food – $23.99 per 14-lb bag ($1.72-lb).
- Best for Allergies and Sensitivities: Earthborn Holistic Meadow Grain-Free Dry Food – $63.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.56-lb).
- Best Grain-Free: Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Food – $79.99 per 26-lb bag ($3.08-lb).
- Best for Weight Management: Dr. Tim’s Weight Management Metabolite Formula Dry Food – $82.79 per 24-lb bag ($3.45-lb).
Please Note that these prices are as of 18h April 2023.
Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low-Calorie Dry Food
This high-fiber recipe from Natural Balance is low in calories, making it an excellent selection for pups struggling with weight issues. The high fiber makes your dog full for longer, consuming less food. This recipe has been on the market since March 18th, 2013.
Picky eaters would not resist this highly palatable formula. The protein mixture ensures your dog maintains a healthy weight with lean muscles. L-carnitine is also included to break down excess fats and convert them into useful energy.
Immune wellness is key as it ensures your pup is not exposed to frequent infections. Vitamins C and E work together to boost immunity and prevent inflammation. High omega levels keep the coat and skin healthy. The inclusion of grains makes it unfit for dogs with grain allergies.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Chickpeas, Salmon Meal, Oat Groats, Dried Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 7.5% min, Crude Fiber 10.5% Max.
- Calorie Content: 315 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, temperature, climate, activity levels, and weight.
- Key Benefit: High fiber content and reduced calories ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight.
- Price: $69.98 per 28-lb bag ($2.50-lb).
Rachael Ray Nutrish Dry Food
Support your small dog’s digestive system with this high-fiber recipe from J.M. Smucker. The recipe comes in small kibble sizes, making it perfect for small dog breeds. It has been on the market since March 9th, 2018.
Real chicken is the top ingredient for lean muscle mass. The formula includes minerals like calcium, zinc, and phosphorus. It is also loaded with vitamins C and E, powerful antioxidants for the immune system.
There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The meal may, however, not be right for dogs with grain allergies as it is grain-inclusive.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal, Whole Corn, Grain Sorghum.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calorie Content: 351 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: Small breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age and weight.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the leading ingredient for lean muscle mass.
- Price: $23.99 per 14-lb bag ($1.72-lb).
Earthborn Holistic Meadow Grain-Free Dry Food
This is another fiber-rich formula from Earthborn Holistic. It is a limited ingredient formula so dogs with allergies and sensitivities can tolerate it. Lamb is the only protein source. Lamb is also highly digestible, making the formula safe for dogs with tummy sensitivities. The recipe has been on the market since December 20th, 2020.
Omega 3 and 6 promote a proper lipid balance for a bright coat and smooth skin. L-carnitine keeps dogs active while lowering the chances of obesity. Obesity comes with other health issues, including pancreatitis.
Apples, carrots, and spinach provide fiber, while blueberries and cranberries are superb antioxidants for the digestive and immune systems. Chelated minerals are maximally absorbed for proper nutrition.
- First 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Pumpkin, Tapioca, Dried Egg, Sweet Potato.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calorie Content: 345 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with temperament, age, activity, size, and weight.
- Key Benefit: The formula uses fewer ingredients to lower the risk of allergies and sensitivities.
- Price: $63.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.56-lb).
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Food
With a maximum of 7% fiber, this recipe from Wellness is the best for pups with digestive problems. It is crafted with fiber-rich ingredients like whole flaxseed, kale, carrots, broccoli, and spinach. The initial manufacturing date is December 20th, 2002.
Some dogs cannot tolerate chicken, a healthy alternative with seafood as the main ingredient. Herring and salmon meals are excellent sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy hips and joints.
Beta-carotene supports vision wellness, while taurine is best for proper cardiac functions. You will not find any artificial additives, fillers, or meat by-products. The meal is, however, manufactured in a facility that also processes grains.
- First 5 Ingredients: Whitefish, Herring Meal, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 7% Max.
- Calorie Content: 414 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight.
- Key Benefit: High fiber content from high-quality sources to boost gastrointestinal wellness.
- Price: $79.99 per 26-lb bag ($3.08-lb).
Dr. Tim’s Weight Management Metabolite Formula Dry Food
Unhealthy weight exposes your dog to loads of health issues. This low-calorie formula from Dr. Tim’s Pet Food combines wholesome proteins and special fiber to help your pup burn extra calories, thus maintaining a healthy weight. The meal has been on the market since November 30th, 2017.
Fat metabolism ensures no fats accumulate; this recipe has L-carnitine that breaks down fats. Patented probiotics keep the digestive system strong and healthy, while the two omegas keep your dog’s skin smooth and its coat shiny.
Antioxidants, including selenium and vitamin E, boost immunity and prevent oxidative damage. EPA and DHA are critical for brain functions. There are zero wheat, soy, corn, or artificial additives.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oats, Peas, Powdered Cellulose.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30 min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 10% Max.
- Calorie Content: 280 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether you serve it for weight reduction or maintenance.
- Key Benefit: Combine wholesome protein and fiber to give your dog a healthy weight.
- Price: $82.79 per 24-lb bag ($3.45-lb).
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal High Fiber Dry Food
Gastrointestinal wellness is important as it reduces the frequency of tummy issues and other health problems. This high-fiber recipe from Royal Canin is crafted specifically for your dog’s digestive wellness. Consuming it promotes stool quality thanks to the high levels of prebiotics and highly digestible proteins. The recipe has been on the market since May 19th, 2012.
The soluble and insoluble fibers blend ensures smooth digestion, making it the best selection for pups with gastrointestinal sensitivities. High omega levels reduce the risk of skin irritations and dull coats.
The formula also contains EPA and DHA for mobility and cognitive functions. These nutrients are also beneficial to gut wellness. The meal includes grains and requires veterinary authorization.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Powdered Cellulose, Corn.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 21% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 12.5% Max.
- Calorie Content: 290 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight.
- Key Benefit: High fiber content, probiotics, and highly digestible proteins support gastrointestinal health.
- Price: $97.99 per 17.6-lb bag ($5.57-lb).
American Journey Limited Ingredient (Duck & Sweet Potato) Dry Food
Fewer ingredients lower the chances of tummy sensitivities and allergies. They also make it easy to spot and avoid an allergen. This limited-ingredient formula from Chewy is best for pups with allergies and sensitivities. Dogs with chicken intolerance will also benefit from this recipe.
Duck is the only protein source. Other notable ingredients include carrots, blueberries, and sweet potatoes. These provide fiber and antioxidants for digestive and immune well-being. Omega 3 and 6 boost cognitive, vision, and coat functions.
You will not find poultry by-product meals or fillers. This makes it safe for your dog. It is also free from grains and suits all dog breeds.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Duck, Duck Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calorie Content: 324 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s health status and weight.
- Key Benefit: It uses fewer ingredients to lower the risk of sensitivities and allergies.
- Price: $60.24 per 24-lb bag ($2.51-lb).
Solid Gold Fresh Caught Wild Alaskan Pollock Adult High-Fiber Recipe Dry Food
Keep your dog fit and fabulous with this high-fiber meal from Solid Gold Pet LLC. It includes fiber-dense ingredients like peas, brown rice, and pearled barley for your dog’s digestive system. The recipe has been on the market since April 29th, 2015.
The formula is low in fats and calories, thus ensuring your pup stays full while maintaining a healthy weight. Ground flaxseed, pumpkin, and carrots contribute to the high fiber content, while antioxidants like blueberries and cranberries prevent inflammation.
You need not worry about your dog’s cognitive wellness as this meal is rich in DHA. There is zero corn, soy, or wheat. It may, however, not be the best selection for fidos susceptible to grain allergies as it is grain-inclusive.
- First 5 Ingredients: Pollock, Pollock Meal, Pea Fiber, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 6.5% min, Crude Fiber 10% Max.
- Calorie Content: 330 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with activity levels, temperature, health status, and weight.
- Key Benefit: Low fat and calorie content ensure your pooch maintains a healthy weight.
- Price: $72.99 per 24-lb bag ($3.05-lb).
Instinct Healthy Weight Raw Boost Recipe Chicken Dry Food
Every pet parent wishes for a happy digestive system and a healthy weight. Consuming this meal from Nature’s Variety gives your dog these two important benefits. The formula is made for weight maintenance and is rich in fiber. It has been on the market since May 1st, 2013.
It has less fat and calories and includes L-carnitine. These features make it an excellent selection for pups who need to shed pounds. Cage-free chicken tops the ingredients list for healthy muscles and bones.
There are zero artificial additives, corn, wheat, soy, potatoes, and by-product meals. Dogs with grain allergies can safely enjoy it. Taurine and high omega levels boost coat, skin, and cardiac wellness.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Peas, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Tapioca..
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 35% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calorie Content: 368 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, activity levels, and weight.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the leading ingredient for strong and healthy muscles.
- Price: $79.99 per 20-lb bag ($4.00-lb).
Nutrisca Grain-Free Salmon & Chickpea Recipe Dry Food
Chickpeas are fiber-dense, and this recipe from Dogwells includes chickpeas, with salmon being the leading ingredient. Salmon is an easily digestible protein source for muscle and bone wellness. The recipe has been on the market since March 7th, 2015.
Other fiber-rich ingredients in this formula include peas, carrots, and flaxseed. Flaxseed further provides omegas for a healthy coat and skin. Antioxidant nutrients ensure a balanced oxidative environment.
Potatoes, grains, wheat, corn, and soy can cause intolerances in some, and this recipe is devoid of all of these.
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chickpeas, Salmon Meal.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calorie Content: 350 Kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, breed, size, activity levels, and weight.
- Key Benefit: Includes fiber-rich ingredients like chickpeas, peas, carrots, and flaxseed for proper digestion.
- Price: $58.99per 28-lb bag ($2.12-lb).
What Facts Should You Know About High-Fiber Dog Food?
High-fiber recipes are healthy for your dog. They promote digestion and lower the chances of other health issues, including obesity. Here are other facts about high-fiber dog food.
A high-fiber dog food with a lot of insoluble fiber is best for digestive wellness. This is because it lessens bloating, eases constipation, and promotes regular bowel movements, insoluble fiber is the best. Insoluble fiber is frequently found in large levels in veterinary therapeutic diets.
For dogs, it also aids with weight management. Dogs enjoy eating. They have insatiable appetites. Insoluble fiber extends the digestive tract in dogs, making them feel filled faster and decreasing their tendency to overeat. Fiber prolongs satiety in dogs, which is beneficial if their diets are restricted owing to medical issues.
In general, you want the carbohydrates in your dog’s food to be high in fiber rather than those with a lot of calories but little fiber, like refined grains. Whole grains are superior to their processed equivalents, much as brown rice is superior to white.
Of course, switching to a high-fiber kibble isn’t necessary to increase the amount of indigestible plant material your dog consumes. Add high-fiber foods like canned pumpkin, carrots, green beans, and peas to increase the fiber in your dog’s usual meal.
If you must switch fully to a high-fiber recipe, do it gradually. Introduce the new food in small amounts, then slowly increase it until your dog’s system adapts. This is crucial as giving large amounts of fiber at a go can cause health issues, including watery stool.
Always ensure your dog can easily access fresh and clean water.
What Are the Best High-Fiber Dog Foods According to Dog Sizes?
The Best High-Fiber Dog Food for Small Dogs
- Diamond Naturals Light Dry Food has a fiber content of 8% making it an excellent choice for your small dogs. The formula starts with real lamb and contains fewer calories for lean muscle mass and a healthy weight. Superfoods like oranges and blueberries provide antioxidants for the immune system, while omegas boost coat and skin functions.
Best High-Fiber Dog Food for Medium Dogs
- Blue Buffalo Weight Management & Urinary Care Natural Veterinary Diet Canned Food is formulated with ideal calories and fats to give your dog a healthy weight. The high fiber content increases satiety, making dogs full for longer. Controlled mineral levels make it the best for urinary health.
Best High-Fiber Dog Food for Large Dogs
- Blue Buffalo Blissful Belly True Solutions Digestive Health Canned Food has prebiotic fiber for digestive health. This makes it great for sensitive tummies. Brown rice, barley, oatmeal, and flaxseed provide fiber, and chicken supports musculature. There are zero fillers and artificial additives.
What Are the Best High-Fiber Dog Foods With Different Ingredients?
The Best High-Fiber Dog Food with Brown Rice
- Brown rice is fiber-rich, making it an important ingredient in your dog’s food. Blue Buffalo Healthy Weight Life Protection Dry Food features chicken and brown rice for lean muscles and a healthy digestive system. The inclusion of L-carnitine makes it a superb meal for weight management.
Best High-Fiber Dog Food with Pumpkin
- Pumpkin is also an excellent fiber source. Adding it to your dog’s food boosts digestion and a healthy weight. Nutro Healthy Weight Natural Choice Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Food includes pumpkin for a healthy digestive system. Chicken is the number one ingredient for proteins that support muscle functions.
Best Chicken-Free High-Fiber Dog Food
- If your dog cannot tolerate chicken, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Turkey Grain-Free Recipe is your best choice. It uses fiber-rich ingredients like peas, carrots, whole flaxseed, broccoli, lentils, pumpkin, and kale. It has taurine and beta-carotene for cardiac and vision health.
Nutritional Needs of High-Fiber Dog Food
High-fiber dog food should be nutritionally balanced for your dog. Consuming them should therefore offer complete and balanced nutrition. Here are the essential nutrients in high-fiber dog food.
Proteins
Protein amino acids are important for muscle development, tissue repair, healthy coat and hair, and improved immunity. Turkey, chicken, salmon, and beef are some of the best protein sources for dogs. However, after consuming them long, your dog can become allergic or sensitive to some proteins. This calls for novel proteins like kangaroo, rabbit, and pollock.
When purchasing high-fiber foods, ensure real protein sources are the leading ingredients. This means they have higher percentages in your dog’s food which is key.
Fats
Higher fat content in the diets of working and sports canines is beneficial. A dog’s metabolism predominantly uses fat for energy during rest and light to moderate exercise.
Fat conditions their metabolism even when a dog is inactive or exercising. So, in addition to helping a dog consume more calories when exercising, a higher proportion of fat in the food also serves to optimize a dog’s metabolism.
Carbohydrates
Energy and fiber are crucial for your dog’s physical functions. Carbs provide both fiber and energy. But it is important to use complex carb sources like sweet potatoes and oats.
Main Health Concerns for High-Fiber Dog Food
Dogs with certain health problems require high fiber to support their overall wellness. Below are the main health issues that fiber can help:
Obesity
Unhealthy weight gain comes with other health issues like arthritis and pancreatitis. This is where fiber comes in. Fiber keeps dogs full for a long time. This lowers the frequency of consuming food, thus boosting a healthy weight.
Anal Gland problems
Dogs have two anal glands roughly positioned at 4 and 8 o’clock. These glands discharge a waxy, unpleasant-smelling substance during a typical bowel movement.
But these glands occasionally clog, resulting in impacted anal glands, which can hurt a dog and lead to additional issues. This is among the most frequent causes of dogs dragging their butts as they “scoot” over the floor.
Fortunately, fiber can help. Fiber makes your dog’s stools heavier, which can increase pressure on the anal glands. As a result, the anal glands may be expressed and emptied more frequently.
Intestinal dysfunction
Diarrhea in dogs is reduced by adding fiber to the diet. Fiber supplementation alone, however, seldom eliminates canine big intestine diarrhea symptoms. Your veterinarian might supplement the diet with anti-inflammatory medicine to help the inflammation go away more quickly.
What are the benefits of high-fiber dog food?
As listed above, fiber has loads of benefits for your dog. Here are other important functions of fiber in your pup’s body.
Improved digestion
Fiber helps with constipation and diarrhea. It draws water into the intestine, thus lowering the risks and severity of constipation. Regarding diarrhea, fiber absorbs water from the intestine for bulkier stools.
Introduce fiber gradually, as too much can cause gassiness and pooping. Start with small amounts, then increase them gradually until your dog’s system becomes accustomed.
Improved blood sugar levels
Consuming fiber keeps blood sugar at the right levels. This lowers the chances of canine diabetes and obesity. Stable blood sugar levels ensure dogs have longer lifespans.
Feeling full from consuming less
Fiber occupies space in your pup’s body. Fiber is not digested; thus, it keeps dogs full for longer. This is a plus for dogs that want to lose weight. They will consume less and hence maintain a healthy weight. Fats, proteins, and digestible carbs are essential, and fiber cannot take its place.
Antioxidant properties
Up to 80% of the anti-cancer antioxidant polyphenols in fruits and vegetables are bound by fiber. This prevents the stomach and small intestine from breaking down the antioxidants. Thanks to fiber, the antioxidant elements are safely transported to the colon. Helpful bacteria release them during fermentation in the colon, where they offer protection against illness and cancer.
Is high-fiber dog food good for senior dogs?
Yes. A higher-fiber diet will give elderly dogs regular bowel movements because some experience constipation. Protein sources in many senior diets are of greater quality than those in regular foods. This keeps the body’s weight and muscle mass stable without overtaxing the kidneys. Fiber also lowers the risk of obesity since senior dogs are less active.
Final Thoughts
Fiber has loads of benefits for your dog. Some benefits include digestive support, reduced anal issues, and a healthy weight. This makes high-fiber recipes important in your dog’s diet.
You can start with our best overall recipe Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low-Calorie Dry Food. Its fiber content of 10.5% keeps your dog full for longer while lowering the risk of digestive problems.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Dry Food is your best choice if you need a budget-friendly option. It starts with real chicken for strong muscles and is rich in fiber.