Super Hero's and Villain's of Dog Food

Super Hero's and Villain's of Dog Food

Do you feed Super Treats to your Pooch? “Super Foods” are nutritiously dense foods considered to be especially beneficial for both health and well-being. As a dog parent, it is important to be aware of the benefits and consider adding them to their regular meals, or giving them as a snack or treat. Super foods contain various nutrients such as:

 Antioxidants to help prevent cancer by minimizing free radical damage. Healthy Fats to lessen  cardiovascular disease. Fiber to help prevent diabetes and digestive disorders. Vitamins that are essential for normal growth and nutrition. Phytochemicals that offer numerous health benefits.

 Remember that what’s good for your dog is just as good for your health. So enjoy these tasty and healthy treats together.

 Slow introduction with small quantities is essential when introducing new foods to your dog’s diet.  An excessive amount can create stomach discomfort or diarrhea.

 Some Super foods that are easy to add to your dog’s diet are:

  1. Blueberries- Loaded with phytochemicals, these tiny fruits are filled with free-radical fighting antioxidants and have been shown to reduce the oxidative damage inflicted by an active lifestyle. These berries also supply a surge of Vitamin C, E, manganese and fiber.
    Health Benefits for: Digestion, Blood Sugar, Heart, and Brain.
  2. Carrots- This crunchy treat is loaded with phytonutrients, Vit A, C, K and Beta Carotene which boosts night vision and helps protect eyes against cataracts.
    Health Benefits: Heart, Eyes, Teeth, and Lungs.
  3. Broccoli- This little tree is just as nutritious cooked as it is raw. That means you can try sautéing it if your dog prefers gourmet. It is loaded with carotenoids, potassium, fiber, and calcium.
    Health Benefits: Eyes, Digestion, Skin, Heart, and it’s an Anti-Inflammatory.
  4. Fish- The oilier the fish the better (try Salmon & Mackerel). Fish is packed with Omega-3 fatty compounds that many kibble diets lack. Omega-3’s are miracle workers for your dog’s skin, coat, and brain; and they have anti-inflammatory features that can lessen arthritic pain and other chronic conditions. Salmon is a great source of Omega-3s and it has also been known to benefit dogs with allergies.
    Health Benefits: Skin, Coat, Anti-Inflammatory.                                                                      
  5. Kale- Slightly bitter, you may wish to lightly cook this leafy green. There are ample amounts of Vit A, C, and E, Iron, and Calcium, along with an excellent source of antioxidants. These all aid the liver in the detoxification of the body.
    Health Benefits: Liver, Anti-Inflammatory.                                                                                  
  6. Turmeric- This “Super-Spice” can be added to your dog’s bowl for more than flavour. The active ingredient (Curcumin) is derived from the turmeric root, giving this plant some of its holistic and medicinal properties.
    Health Benefits: Anti-Inflammatory, Digestion, Anti-Cancer, and a Neuroprotective.
  7. Eggs- They’re packed with protein and essential amino acids contributing to an overall healthy coat, skin, muscle development and tissue repair. They are also loaded with Vit A, B12, Riboflavin, Iron, Fatty Acids, Selenium and Folate -- all vital for maintaining a healthy, functioning body.
    Health Benefits: Coat, Skin, and Brain Function.

These are only a few key Super Foods that you can include in both your dog’s and your own daily meals and snacks to help maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Some other healthy treats you can include are cooked Sweet Potatoes, Yogurt low in sugar, Banana, Flax Seeds, and raw Honey. There are many more. 

“Now that you know a little bit about Super Foods,
look at your dog’s kibble ingredients to find them! “

 Be sure to experiment a little with various Super Foods and see what appeals to your dog’s taste buds but be careful of food allergies. For a list of 8 Foods You Should Never Give Your Dog, see this blog post.

 Educate, interact and have fun with your kids while learning important safety facts about owning a dog. Attached to each colouring sheet is information you can read after colouring. If you want to learn more, visit the DOGORA Blog using the links below. 

 

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 Nicholas Mozas is Founder and CEO of DOGORA. He is a graduate of the University of Guelph in Biological Science and holds an M.Sc. in Neutragenomics. Nicholas managed an Animal Hospital after graduation, gaining a better understanding of pets’ and owners’ needs. Find out more at www.dogora.ca