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Top 10 High-Fiber Foods That Your Dog Will Say Yes To!
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Like humans, dogs need a balanced and nutritious diet to support their health. Fiber is a key component of any healthy diet and does more than keep your pet fuller for longer.
It plays a vital role in maintaining the digestive system, promoting optimal bowel function, and regulating blood sugar levels. Additionally, high-fiber dog foods help in weight management, providing a feeling of fullness without adding excess calories.
High-fiber foods include a variety of fiber-rich ingredients like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Including fiber in your dog’s diet prevents constipation, alleviates diarrhea, and supports healthy gut flora.
With a wide range of options available on the market, selecting the best high-fiber dog food for your furry friend will ensure its digestive health and overall well-being for years to come. Let’s look at some of the top contenders.
The Honest Kitchen was founded in 2002 and is the world’s first human-grade pet food company.
All their formulas are sustainably sourced, and the Grain-Free Turkey Clusters is no exception. The well-balanced composition ensures that your dog gets a proportionate share of fiber, fats, minerals, and vitamins.
Since the recipe is grain-free and contains turkey, the most hypoallergenic protein, it is safe for dogs with sensitive tummies. And even though it is dry food, I like that all ingredients are cold-pressed and dehydrated to maintain the optimum nutritional values.
However, many reviews mention that the kibble gets crushed during shipping to an almost powdery consistency. Also, the consensus is that most dogs are averse to its taste. So it’s best to start with a smaller pack.
A well-established brand in the pet food industry, Nutro is known for its commitment to providing high-quality nutrition for dogs and cats. The brand believes in using real, natural ingredients and avoiding artificial additives, colors, and preservatives.
The Adult Healthy Weight Farm-Raised Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe aims to provide balanced nutrition by including essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog’s overall health. Designed for dogs a year old or older, it can help your pet lose and maintain a healthy weight thanks to its high fiber content. It is suitable for dogs who are prone to weight gain or have a sedentary lifestyle.
The formula includes human-grade Whole Grain Brown Rice, Split Peas, and Lentils-all of which are safe, natural sources of fiber. It also contains chicken and chicken meal for a well-rounded protein intake. The best part? The recipe has zero by-products, corn, wheat, or soy – common allergens in many dog foods.
The one drawback, in my opinion, is that the brand only sells 30 lbs bags of food. Additionally, because of the natural fiber in the food, the transition period may be longer than usual.
Pros
Human-grade ingredients
No by-products, corn, wheat, or soy
Specially designed for healthy weight loss
Packed with antioxidants and natural fiber
Cons
Only large 30lbs bags available
Long transition period
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo believes in holistic living in canines, and their formulas call to the Wolf spirit in your dog.
The Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food may sound like any other high-protein diet. Take a closer look at the ingredient list; you’ll notice it has a unique composition compared to other brands.
From deboned chicken and chicken meal to support muscle development and energy, the formula also includes wholesome grains like barley, oats, and brown rice. These complex carbs aid in digestion and provide plenty of essential minerals.
Plus, the absence of toxic by-products, wheat, corn, and soy lowers the risk of allergies. However, this is not a good option if your dog is allergic to all grains, including brown rice. A gradual transition is advised. And if digestive-related issues persist over 10 days, consult a vet.
Dogs used to grain-free alternatives may find the taste repulsive. So, get a small pack first and check if the food passes the taste test with your pet.
The brand offers various flavors, including Chicken, Turkey & Chicken, Red Meat, Bison, and Salmon. And while Dex relishes all their flavors, he is partial to Salmon.
Pros
Unique formula
Contains no by-products, wheat, corn, or soy
Contains no preservatives
Human-grade ingredients
Cons
May cause allergic reactions
Long transition period
Has a distinct taste that some dogs may not like
Hill’s Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome Digestive/Fiber Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food, Veterinary Diet
Hill’s specializes in a variety of dog foods targeting specific problems. From joints and mobility to dental care, the brand has several variations for your pet’s health and wellness.
Among its best sellers is the Diet Gastrointestinal Biome Digestive Dog Dry Food. I’d recommend this recipe since it worked wonders with Dex. It’s formulated with ActivBiome Technology, a proprietary ingredient clinically shown to firm stools and reduce the chances of loose stools or stomach issues.
It’s worth noting that the formula uniquely blends prebiotic and postbiotic fiber to maintain your pet’s digestive health.
Sadly, this incredible recipe is only available in one flavor – chicken. But the brand is so sure of its formula that it offers a full refund if your dog does not benefit from it. Not many brands can offer that kind of guarantee.
On the flip side, although Gastrointestinal Biome Digestive Dog Dry Food is very effective, it is also more expensive than regular kibble. But this is a small price to pay in exchange for your pet’s good health.
Pros
Uses ActivBiome Technology
Supports digestive health
100% satisfaction guaranteed
Cons
Expensive than regular kibble
Available only in 1 flavor
Rachael Ray Nutrish Little Bites Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe
Most reviews have only good things to say about Rachel Ray’s Nutrish Little Bites Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe, and rightly so. The recipe is carefully formulated to meet the nourishment needs of small dogs. Even the kibble size is smaller.
Little Bites contains chicken meal, nutritious vegetables, and wholesome brown rice to support your pet’s muscle growth and digestive health. A well-rounded recipe, it is free of by-products, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
Its USP is that it contains simple, real ingredients. The formula contains brown rice and does not include wheat or wheat gluten, making it suitable for pups with allergies. However, it is currently only available in chicken flavor, not an option for dogs allergic to chicken.
And while this formula is good for standard and large breeds as well, I wouldn’t recommend it simply because larger breeds have different nutritional requirements.
Pros
Smaller chunks than regular kibble
Contains zero by-products, artificial flavors, or preservatives
Wheat- and gluten-free
Contains added minerals and vitamins
Cons
Not ideal for standard and large breeds
Available only in 1 flavor
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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula – Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe
Blue Buffalo makes it to this list again for its Life Protection Formula, specially created for puppies and small breeds. However, they also have recipes for other breeds under this formula.
The Chicken and Oatmeal recipe uses wholesome chicken, oatmeal, blueberries, fish oil, cranberries, and flaxseeds to promote muscle, fur, and digestive health. Omega-3 fatty acids support healthy kidneys and weight management.
And with the exclusion of wheat, corn, and soy by-products, your pup will have lower chances of allergic reactions. Sadly, the Life Protection Formula for pups is only available in one flavor at the moment. But the Adult variants come in various other flavors.
A slow and gradual transition is recommended, which may extend over 10 days in some cases. But if your dog finds it difficult to adjust to this formula even after two weeks, consider other options. Additionally, because the recipe has oatmeal, pups may sniff it and walk away until they get used to it, so only add small portions at a time.
Solid Gold, founded in 1974, is America’s first holistic dog food brand. Even today, the brand focuses on healthy living and prioritizes complete gut health.
The Fit and Fabulous Recipe uses wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, a lean protein that helps in muscle development. Meanwhile, oatmeal, brown rice, peas, and barley are rich sources of complex carbohydrates and a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber that improve the digestive system and gut health.
If your pup is not a fan of fish, don’t worry! Get your hands on the Chicken, Sweet Potato & Green Bean variant. Both recipes are free of common allergens and fillers, like corn, wheat, soy, gluten, or preservatives.
Wellness dates back to 1962 and has had quite a history. Today, it is among the leading dog food companies in the world.
Its Core Grain-free recipe contains turkey, a known hypoallergenic. Additionally, it includes nutritional supplements that promote bowel movement and overall health. But it also has chicken, a lean protein option many dogs are allergic to.
Core is completely grain-free. However, the formula includes peas, which are not ideal for dogs. Parents with picky pups averse to chicken can choose between Ocean (Fish) and Lamb.
And while this formula is a bit complex, it’s definitely worth a try.
Natural Balance believes in authenticity. Their well-crafted recipes are all about high-quality ingredients and transparency.
The Fat Dog Recipe is a great option if you feel your dog is getting obese. Plump dogs may look adorable, but they are at risk of cardiovascular, skin, kidney, and joint problems.
Natural Balance’s dry food contains lean proteins like chicken and salmon that promote muscular growth and skin health. It also contains barley, pea fiber, alfalfa, dried yeast, and Vitamin E and D3 to support digestion and gut health. All these ingredients promote weight management.
And with no fillers, wheat, or by-products, there’s not much to find fault with. Nonetheless, picky eaters may struggle to get used to its taste.
Taste of the Wild is all about helping dogs live their best lives. Their formulas mimic canine diets in the wild, but they’re much better, thanks to the added probiotics.
The High Prairie Canine Recipe contains roasted bison and venison. This recipe is a hit, mainly because it includes pasture-raised protein sources that have an elevated taste and plenty of Omega-3. These factors improve blood cholesterol levels.
The added prebiotics aid in bowel movement and gut health. However, the formula is high in protein content (approximately 32.0%), so I won’t recommend this food for senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with sensitive stomachs. Dogs may also take longer to digest the food, and the transition period can be long.
Their recipes also include some novelty meats, which are worth a shot. Some variants include Pacific Stream, Pine Forest, Sierra Mountain, Southwest Canyon, and Wetlands.
Pros
High-protein
6 Novelty meat options
Meat sources are pasture-raised bison and venison
Added antioxidants
Cons
Not ideal for puppies and senior dogs
Longer transition period
Not ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Increase Fiber in My Dog’s Diet?
You can start by adding fiber-rich treats to your dog’s diet. Apples, carrots, beets, and cucumbers are fiber-rich and aid digestion.
You can also switch your dog’s kibble for high-fiber dry food. Check the label to know the fiber content in your dog’s current food. Anything within the range of 2-5% is normal.
However, if your dog has persistent constipation or diarrhea, it’s time to switch up its diet.
What Is the Best Low-fat, High-fiber Dog Food?
There’s no correct answer to this, as all breeds have different nutritional needs. That said, when looking for high-fiber options, read the packaging very carefully.
If the dog food mentions fiber content above 4-5%, it’s considered ideal. Anything below that percentage is low. That said, speak to the vet before introducing any changes to your dog’s diet.
Can I Give My Dog Fiber Every Day?
Yes, you may! Fiber has several health benefits, and adding it to your dog’s diet will improve its overall health. Although there is no fixed amount, the fiber content shouldn’t exceed more than 10% of its overall diet.
Too much fiber can lead to diarrhea, loose stools, and weight loss. It is recommended to start with small amounts but never exceed the recommended percentage.
The Verdict
Fiber is essential in a dog’s diet and knowing which food to feed your furry friend can help it stay healthy. If you’re confused about selecting the best high-fiber dog food for your furry friend, this list is a good place to start.
For dogs with regular constipation, Nutro – Adult Healthy Weight Farm-Raised Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is a good option. For small breeds, I’d recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula – Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe and Rachael Ray Nutrish Little Bites Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe. Both are specifically formulated for puppies and small breeds.
For larger breeds, recipes like Solid Gold Fit and Fabulous With Alaskan Pollock, Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe, and Natural Balance Fat Dogs Recipe (to name a few) would be ideal.
But remember, like all new foods, there is a transition period. So start introducing new fiber-rich foods slowly and gradually. Start out with treats like apples, cucumbers, and eventually other fiber-rich dog-friendly foods. However, if diarrhea or constipation persist even after two weeks, discontinue the food and consult the vet.
Meet Sheryl, a dedicated pet mom with over 20 years of hands-on experience as a pet mom to various dog breeds, from German Shepherds to Shih Tzus.
Join her on her pet-centric journey as she aims to empower pet owners with practical tips and guidance. With her experience and passion for pets, she strives to make a positive impact in the lives of pets and their devoted owners.