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Dietary fiber is classified as both fermentable and non-fermentable. Natural sources of fiber contain a combination of both fermentable and non-fermentable fibers to help regulate the digestive tract and maintain the functional environment for optimal digestive health within the large intestine.
Non-fermentable fiber (i.e., insoluble fiber) helps ensure the efficient absorption of dietary nutrients in the small intestine by normalizing intestinal transit time. Food moving too quickly through the intestines can result in diarrhea and poor nutrient absorption. Food travelling too slowly can lead to constipation.
Non-fermentable fiber also absorbs water from the intestines which can help ease defecation. Thus, the appropriate balance of non-fermentable fiber in dog food can help avoid undesirable stools.
The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from undigested food and stores waste for elimination. Large quantities of beneficial bacteria called microflora live in the large intestine and feed off of undigested food.
Bacterial digestion of fermentable fiber (i.e., soluble fiber) produces short-chain fatty acids which can be absorbed by the large intestine and are utilized as energy by the body.
A healthy population of “good” bacteria in the colon can also reduce the likelihood of harmful bacteria invading the hospitable environment of the large intestine, decreasing the susceptibility to infection.
Natural sources of dietary fiber, including chicory root, tomato pomace, alfalfa and pumpkin, are used in Vetdiet® natural dog food. Although fiber is not considered an essential nutrient, it is beneficial to dogs by promoting digestive health, just like in humans.
Many myths have circulated about the nutritional benefits of fiber sources and their value as viable ingredients in dog food.
For example, because they are not fully digestible, fiber sources like tomato pomace and alfalfa have been labeled controversial ingredients, considered to be “just fillers,” with no benefit for digestive health. This is not true.
Natural sources of fiber are important in maintaining digestive regularity, promoting a healthy digestive tract environment and helping dogs feel full after a meal. They are generally considered to contain an optimal balance of fermentable and non-fermentable fiber, which helps support your dog’s digestive and overall health.
Added prebiotics help support digestive health.
Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil help maintain skin and coat health.
Contains high-quality protein as well as L-carnitine to help metabolize fat.
Foods with a limited protein source may be beneficial for pets with food sensitivities. A limited protein source pet food uses a minimal amount of protein sources.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil and canola oil help maintain skin and coat health.
Added glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain joint health.
Contains 12% fewer calories than our Vetdiet® all breeds adult dog food – chicken and rice formula. High-quality protein from deboned chicken as well as added natural fiber from ingredients such as peas and whole barley contributes to a feeling of fullness and help achieve a healthy weight.
An optimal combination of natural ingredients that provide an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. Ingredients such as white fish and eggs provide high quality protein and are blended with high-quality natural ingredients such as brown rice, barley and sweet potatoes to provide the right balance of carbohydrates.
