Category: FurrBlog

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?

In your role as pet parents, you continuously search for information to make sure that your pets are healthy and secure. You know that for your furry friends -chocolate, grapes and roasted bones are not so good. But, there are a couple of other foods that are usually overlooked when you are choosing the right food for your dog, and one such food is Mushroom. So, let’s discuss Are Mushrooms Good for Dogs and Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?

Mushrooms are available in abundance in nature. They grow throughout the year and are plentiful in the fall months. They appear all over the garden areas, in and around the vegetation and trees.

There are many foods that are healthy and safe when given in moderation and not all forms are safe for consumption by your dog, and mushrooms are one such food that you should be careful about when adding to dog food.

Most mushrooms sold in the market, for human consumption, are safe for your furry friend too, but in the wilderness, there are many mushroom species that are potentially dangerous for your dog. You should be particularly vigilant when taking your dog for a walk or trekking in areas where mushrooms are found in abundance.

As a pet parent, it is important for you to understand which mushrooms are harmful for dogs and which are the mushrooms can be part of the dog food!

Some Mushrooms are Dangerous for dogs

Mushrooms are a bit mysterious. Many kinds of mushrooms that are available in the market are quite safe for consumption. There are some mushrooms that can be fed in small amount without any damage. However, there are a few types of mushrooms, especially the ones that grow in the wild, that are extremely dangerous for dogs.

Mushrooms grow best in warm and humid conditions. They can grow naturally in grassy parks, wooded areas, rocky terrain and even in your backyard if the temperature and weather conditions are right.

So, unless you have absolute knowledge of wild mushrooms, it is important that you always handle any wild mushroom consumption by your dog as dangerous and contact your vet as soon as possible to make sure that the treatment begins at the earliest.

Are Mushrooms Poisonous For Dogs?

Yes, some mushrooms are very poisonous for dogs.

Toxicity from Amanita species of mushrooms is the most prevalent kind of recorded mushroom poisoning in dogs. Arguably the most iconic of the toadstool mushrooms, they are usually red mushrooms with white spots and gills. Dogs are known to be drawn to members of this species of mushrooms because they have a fishy smell.

Amanita mushrooms cause poisoning in both humans and dogs and can cause serious life-threatening conditions due to mushroom toxicity in dogs.

Besides, Amanita mushrooms, there are many other varieties of mushrooms that are very dangerous for dogs. So, unless you are a mushroom expert, it is best to assume every wild mushroom to be dangerous and best to avoid.

The severity of mushroom poisoning depends on the type and number of mushrooms eaten by the dog. Sometimes a pet can have mild gastrointestinal (GI) upset that can be resolved at home. At other times, pets become extremely sick and require hospitalization. Unfortunately, some pets die of mushroom poisoning despite treatment and therapy.

Symptoms of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

  • There are many mushroom varieties that upset the stomach of dogs causing vomiting and diarrhoea. Pets may become ill within 15 minutes of nibbling on these mushrooms, while in some cases the symptoms may be delayed for up to 6 hours.
  • Some variety of mushrooms cause respiratory problems and slowing down of heart rate.
  • There are some varieties of mushroom that affect the liver in dogs. Amanita Mushroom falls under this category and is extremely deadly. Pets who get liver toxicity due to mushroom become jaundiced, lethargic, weak and can even lose consciousness.
  • If your dog eats mushrooms that affect the kidney then symptoms are nausea, vomiting and dehydration.
  • There are three main groups of mushrooms that cause neurological signs in dogs like weakness, lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, vocalizations, disorientation, agitation, and seizures. The onset of the symptoms is fast and signs can show within 30 minutes to up to 6 hours.

Treatment of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

As with most cases of poisoning in dogs, prompt treatment is critical for the health and life of dogs. It is important to ensure that there is minimal absorption of toxins by the body, so treatment should start at the earliest.

If you believe your dog has eaten wild mushrooms, it is best not to wait until the symptoms emerge. Take your pet promptly to the veterinarian to detect the level of toxicity. Early Identification of your dog’s toxicity level and immediate emergency treatments are essential for recovery.

To reduce the amount of toxins that has entered the bloodstream, your veterinarian will induce vomiting to flush the stomach. Gastro Intestinal medicines like activated charcoal is also used to bind the toxins to prevent absorption.

Your pet will also be given intravenous fluids to combat dehydration and flush out all the toxins from the body and to support kidney and liver function.

How to Prevent Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

Without proper knowledge of mushrooms and its types, it is best to assume that all mushrooms growing in the wild are harmful and should be best avoided. If your dog visits your lawns and other wooded areas around your house unsupervised, then remove all mushrooms in that area.

Mushrooms spring up very quickly, so frequent inspection and removal of mushrooms is important to ensure that your dog does not ingest a poisonous mushroom. It is always better to be safe when it comes to mushroom poisoning in dogs.

Are Store-Bought Mushrooms SafeFor Dogs To Eat?

Most mushrooms that are fit for human consumption are also safe for dogs. So, if you are buying mushrooms from the store for yourself, they can be safely eaten by your dogs too.

Although, mushrooms do have some health benefits for dogs but if your dog is already on a balanced fresh food diet like FurrMeals Ready-to-Eat Fresh Dog Food then you don’t have to bother much about adding mushrooms to your dog’s daily diet. All the vitamins and minerals that you want to obtain through mushrooms are very much available in all the FurrMeals recipes.

Nonetheless, if you have a little more mushroomleft over after your dinner preparation and are wondering if one or two of them can be given to your dog, then please do go ahead and give them to your furry as a treat. However, if your doggo somehow manages to gets into the bag of mushrooms and polishes off a coupletoo many, then a consult with the vet is recommended.

Raw or Cooked – What is the best way to give mushroom to dogs?

Mushrooms are a low-calorie food that is packed with nutrition. Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants, all of which are great for your furry’s health.

Store-bought mushrooms should be cleaned properly and can be served raw as a crunchy snack for your furry. If your furry does not fancy the taste of the raw mushrooms then you can lightly cook the mushrooms and serve.

When serving cooked mushrooms, make sure it is low in calories and contain low sodium levels, have low fat, and are without cholesterol. Lightly sautéed mushrooms can be a great snack for your furry. Make sure to use a good quality coconut oil, olive oil or ghee to sauté the mushroom. Do not add any salt to it. Drizzle some healthy seed powder like flax seed, sesame seed or chia seed for the added boost of omega fatty acids.

Benefits Of Mushrooms For Dogs

Mushrooms are a wholesome, nutrient-filled food. Just like with human beings, eating mushrooms does have many health benefits for dogs too.

  • Mushrooms supports the liver and renal function of the body
  • Due to its anti-oxidant properties, mushrooms slow down the aging process in dogs
  • Mushrooms reduce cholesterol and supports weight loss and fatty liver conditions in dogs
  • Mushrooms improves metabolism and reduces blood sugar levels

Adding fresh mushroom to your dog’s dry kibble diet will enhance the nutritional value of the food, particularly the vitamins and minerals.

Do Mushrooms Fight Cancer In Dogs?

Medicinal Mushrooms are getting a lot of attention in the recent years due to their ability to prevent and reverse cancer in dogs. Medicinal mushrooms contain unique polysaccharides called beta-glucans (β-glucan), which has an important role in preventing cancer. Beta-glucans are also a probiotic that feeds on the good bacteria in your dog’s gut. The good bacteria strengthen your dog’s immune system and help control inflammation.

Medicinal Mushrooms that Help Dogs with Cancer

  • Maitake Mushroom is the most potent of all mushrooms in slowing tumour growth in dogs. Studies have shown that Maitake Mushroom can reduce cancer cells in dogs and can also be given to dogs who are on chemotherapy as they are completely non-toxic.
  • Reishi Mushroom is one of the most popular mushrooms in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is one of the most effective immune tonics in the world and is a powerful liver tonic. Studies have shown that even when Reishi Mushroom is used occasionally it still helps build a strong immune system and reduce risk of cancer in dogs. Reishi Mushroom can kill certain type of cancel cells and has anti-inflammatory properties, which is also important for dogs who are fighting cancer.
  • Shiitake Mushroom is another potent cancer fighting mushroom for dogs. Regular use of Shiitake can increase the production of cancer-fighting alpha-interferon in the body. Shiitake Mushroom is especially effective treating gastric cancer cells and has a boosting effect on conventional chemotherapy treatment. Shiitake also controls inflammation in the body that could have resulted in cancer later on in life.
  • Chaga Mushroom, also known as the Ugly Mushroom, has high antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help control the free radicals in the body which can otherwise cause long term inflammation in dogs, which ultimately leads to cancer.
  • Turkey Tail Mushroom is another powerhouse mushroom that helps to maintain, protect and also restore the immune health in dogs. It is one the most researched mushrooms both in human and animal world of natural medicines.

Administering some of these medicinal mushrooms to dogs with cancer can prevent future tumour formation, decrease the size of the tumour, prevent the spread of tumours, build immunity and also give a boost to the conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy

To conclude our discussion on “Are Mushrooms Good for Dogs and Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?” – Yes, dogs can eat certain types of mushrooms, especially when they are recommended by your veterinarian or canine nutritionist for their medicinal properties. But, letting your dog having a free pass on all types of mushrooms, especially the wild ones, are not recommended.

Like we say for any new food that you are planning to add to your dog’s diet, start slowly and always feed in moderation. It is important to make sure that your dog is eating a fresh, healthy and balanced diet like FurrMeals Ready-to-Eat Fresh Dog Food and always have access to fresh drinking water.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

A Guide for New Pet Parents on the Best Puppy Food and How to Transition to Adult Dog Food

 ‘You can’t control everything in my dogs’ life, but you can certainly control what you put in their body’ and you should be extra carefully when choosing the food that should go inside your dog’s body.

In today’s world, we all know and realise the value of living a healthy lifestyle. The pandemic has made us even more aware of it and we have begun to take better care of ourselves and our loved one’s, including the little four-legged bundle of joy that you brought home to love and care for!

Right nutrition is not just important for us humans, but is equally important for your puppy. As a new pet parent, the biggest and most important decision you make for your pup is the kind of food you feed. Be mindful of the fact that nutrition is the single most critical factor to determine the health and life span of your dog. Taking informed decisions about puppy food will not only keep your puppy healthy and happy but will also make sure that your puppy grows up to be a strong, healthy and happy adult dog.

As per recent reports, puppy adoptions have seen a rapid growth after the pandemic struck the world. What is even more heart-warming is that our desi Indie dogs are finally getting the attention that they truly deserve. .

In India, where Indie pups and dogs were essentially unable to draw queries for their adoption pre-pandemic, they are now drawing a lot of interest. Lots of families have opened their hearts and homes to not just pedigree and breed dogs but also to our wonderful Indie puppies and giving them the life that they truly deserve.

Right nutrition is not just important for pedigree dogs but our indigenous indie dogs also need to fed a balanced and species appropriate diet.

What kind of food is good for puppies?

Once you become a new pet parent, your first and most important question should be, What should I feed my puppy and what is good puppy food? As a new pet parent, it is your responsibility to get yourself updated about pet nutrition, puppy food, adult dog food, different types of dog foods available in the market and the best puppy food that you can give your puppy.

It is important to understand the right nutrition for your pet, beginning from their puppy stage up to their adulthood and into their senior years.

If you are amongst one of those pet parents who are struggling to find good puppy dog food for your little one, then we are here to help you make the right decision.

At FurrMeals, we take pet nutrition very seriously and make it our responsibility to educate new pet parents about pet nutrition by sharing our knowledge and experience regarding Puppy dog food, its different kinds and if the natural puppy dog food is better and also your puppy can eat adult dog food?

All About Puppy Food

Your new pup depends on you to feed him the right puppy food and in the correct amount too. Puppies grow very fast in the early months and need the right amount of nutrition to make sure they are growing right.

It is also very easy to get carried away and feed more than what is required. The result is a fluffy and plump ball of fur, who is super cute to look at! However, overfeeding is not advisable. Statistics show that 80% of overweight puppies grow up to be overweight adult dogs, who then suffer from weight related health issues like arthritis, cancer, heart conditions, hypertension etc.

However much your pup may give you the puppy eyes, you will have to stay strong and not offer any of the table scraps as they are very unhealthy for your puppy and also add extra calories to their daily diet.

Puppies need to eat small frequent meals, to keep their energy and sugar levels high. For the first few months of a puppy’s life, they will need small meals throughout the day as they transition from their mother’s milk to solid food.

From their 4th month, most puppies will begin eating 4 meals a day. The frequency of meals will keep on decreasing gradually till they graduate to 2 adult meals a day.

Right nutrition for puppies is very important to develop healthy bones and teeth, strong and healthy muscles, and also to get all the energy it takes for playing and learning.

But, with the market flooded with different types and brands of puppy food, new pet parents can easily get overwhelmed on whether a dry puppy food is better or a natural fresh puppy food is better. So, we are here to help you make the choice.

What Kind Of Food Is Good For Puppies?

Puppies need a nutritious balanced diet for their comprehensive growth. Natural food for puppies, that is rich in protein, fats, vitamins, minerals and the right amount of carbohydrate is the best puppy food for their development. When choosing the right puppy food, look at the ingredient list on the pack to make sure that it only contains natural ingredients and not loaded with preservatives and additives.

All puppies are different and so are their nutritional needs. It also depends on the age, breed, growth and size of your puppy.

  • Good Puppy Food Must Contain Protein
    Proteins are vital for your puppy’s growth. Puppies have the highest amount of protein requirement immediately after weaning and the required amount decreases as they keep growing. The recommended protein range in a good puppy food for healthy puppy growth is 22-32% on a dry matter basis.     

    Choose a puppy food that uses natural protein sources, either from animal based or plant-based sources.

  • FurrMeals Puppy Special Chicken & Apple
    is the perfect recipe for puppies as it has the right amount of protein that is derived from fresh, natural and whole chicken and is loaded with fruits and vegetables.
  • Good Puppy Food Must Contain Carbohydrates
    Carbohydrates are a major source of energy for your puppy. Carbohydrate also gives puppy food the required amount of bulk and fibre. Grains and starchy vegetables are some of the main sources of carbohydrate for puppy and dog food. The right puppy food will have a carbohydrate content of 20-30% on a dry matter basis.
  • Good Puppy Food Must Contain Water
    Water is a critical component of puppy diet as it helps in digestion and absorption of food and nutrients. Most natural and wet puppy food like FurrMeals Puppy Food contains 80% moisture and this helps in digesting the food.

    If your puppy is on a dry, kibble diet then the moisture content in food is very minimal. You should then make sure to add more moisture rich food to the diet and encourage your puppy to drink more water.

    As always, make sure to give your puppy access to clean, drinking water at all times.

  • Good Puppy Food Must Contain Minerals
    For proper growth, two types of minerals are needed- Macro and Micro. Macro elements such as calcium, phosphate and potassium allow a series of important activities in the body of the puppy, including proper bone development, nerve pulsing propagation and muscular synthesis. Trace elements or micro include iron, iodine and manganese are required in low amounts by the body and help to make skin, bones, blood and coat healthier.
  • Good Puppy Food Must Contain Vitamins
    For a variety of biological and developmental activities, vitamins are essential for your puppy. Vitamins are of 2 types -water-soluble vitamins C and B-complex, and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

    Water soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and get regularly flushed out. So, they need a continuous top-up. Fat soluble vitamins are stored in the body for later use.

    A balanced puppy food will have the right amount of both types of vitamin sources obtained from natural and fresh ingredients.

So, now you might be wondering if all the above elements are present in adult dog food then can puppies eat adult dog food?

To give you the answer upfront, puppies cannot eat adult dog food. Your puppy’s nutritional requirements are very different from an adult dog, so their food should also be different. There is a lot of difference between puppy dog food and adult dog food.

Brands like FurrMeals design their adult dog and puppy dog recipes differently, keeping in mind AAFCO guidelines. Puppies are in their growth stage and need a growth promoting diet while adult dogs are in maintenance stage and need a maintenance diet..

Transition from Puppy Food to Adult Dog Food

Sooner or later as the puppy grows, a transition from puppy dog food to adult dog food will have to be performed. We recommend starting your pup with a FurrMeals Puppy Special Recipe and then transition to a FurrMeals Adult Dog Recipe once your pup reaches adult weight to attain adulthood.

Puppies grow fast and mature into adulthood at different ages, depending on the breed. It is around 9-12 months for small to medium-size dogs and 12-24 months for large to x-large dog breeds.The pace of growth in puppies varies according to the breed and also involves a complicated engagement between genetics, diet and the surroundings.

Pet parents should make the transition gradually over a few days before completely shifting from puppy food to adult dog food. Your puppy’s stomach needs time to adjust to any change in food to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. The transition can take from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how your pup adjusts to the new food.

Start by adding a few spoons of the new food to the existing food. Observe for some days on how your pup reacts before adding more spoons of the new food. Keep adding adult dog food and keep reducing puppy food from the bowl, till you have completed the transition from puppy food to adult dog food.

Points to Remember for New Pet Parents

  • Bringing a new pup home is always very exciting and fun, but don’t forget the responsibility that it brings with it. In our love for our dogs, we sometimes tend to start sharing every food that we eat with them, not realising the harmful effects the processed and spice loaded human food can have on your puppy..
  • Be mindful of what and how much you put in your puppy’s food bowl. Every meal that your puppy eats is going to contribute to his health and growth, either in a positive or a negative manner.
  • If you are planning to put your puppy on a homemade puppy food diet, then it is critical to make sure that you balance the meals correctly. This is a bit difficult to achieve unless you have knowledge of canine nutrition to know how to make a species appropriate balanced diet using the right ingredients. You also need to calculate the right quantity to feed your puppy at every stage of his growth chart for optimum growth.
  • Not only must a puppy’s diet provide it with energy, but it must also build and sustain the cells of the body to minimize digestive, joint and age-associated issues as your puppy grows up to become an adult dog. And to achieve these goals, the diet must be specifically designed to match your puppy’s particular nutritional demands.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by all this, like most new Pet Parents do, then need not worry because we are here to help you become the perfect pet parent.

At Furrmeals Pet Food, we design the right diet plan for your puppy, depending on their current nutritional needs and keep adjusting as your pup grows. We will also help your puppy transition from puppy food to adult dog food at the right time.

So, are you ready to switch your puppy to a Furrmeals Ready-to-Eat Fresh Puppy Food Plan? Call us now and know the best plan for your pup.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Best Oils for Dogs

 If your dog is on a commercial dry kibble diet or on a self-designed home cooked dog food, then your dog may not be getting all the nutrition that is essential for a long and healthy life. This imbalanced dog food diet, when fed over a long period of time, will lead to nutrition and health related issues in dogs like cancer, arthritis, inflammatory diseases, unhealthy skin and poor fur quality.

One of the main reasons of skin issues in dogs, like allergies, dull coat, flaking and excessive shedding, is due to an imbalance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the dog food that your dog eats. Supplementing the dog food with the right kind of oil, in the right quantity, will reduce many of these problems.

If you notice that your dog’s fur looks dull and sheds a lot then it is time to add some healthy oils to the dog’s food bowl. Making oil a part of your dog’s daily diet plan will help reduce many health-related issues in your dog. Natural Oils for dogs are the safest and most effective way to improve your dog’s skin and fur quality

There are many commercial supplements also available in the market. However, if you chose the right oil and add it to your dog’s daily diet plan, the results will be far better.

Not all oils are good for dogs and adding too much of oil can also result in unhealthy weight gain. Here is a list of the Best Oils for Dogs and feeding guide to these oils. The oils that we are suggesting for your dog are a powerhouse of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which promote better health and longer life in dogs.

Fish Oil for Dogs

Your vet will most likely recommend Fish Oil for your dog at some or other point in their life. Fish oil is packed with two essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA. These fatty acids have cancer fighting properties and improves the cognitive abilities of your dog.

Fish Oil based omega-3 fatty acids also have a natural anti-inflammatory property and reduces pain caused due to inflammation in the body. That is why dogs who are suffering from arthritis and joint inflammations are recommended to add fish oil to their daily bowl of dog food.

Want you furry to have extra shiny coat? Then Fish Oil is the best oil for dogs to improve skin and fur. Fish Oil also reduces itchy skin, hot spots, dandruff, dry flaky skin and allergies.

So, if you want to improve your dog’s skin, fur, memory and prevent cancer while also reducing inflammation and joint pain, then do remember to pour some natural fish oil on their daily bowl of dog food.

You can get many different brands of fish oil in the market. Look for Fish Oil sourced from salmon, sardines, herring, tuna and other fishes that are classified higher in the food chain as they offer the most omega-3 fatty acids.

Once opened, store the fish oil in the refrigerator. Fish Oil goes rancid easily and once spoilt they are not effective and may also cause digestive issues. Fish oil also loses its efficacy if warmed. So, you should not cook fish oil and add it over the dog food at the time of serving.

Before including Fish Oil in your dog’s diet plan, check the label of the dog food that your dog eats regularly to make sure that it does not have fish oil added to it. Too much fish oil can cause upset stomach and blood thinning. An average dosage of fish oil for dogs is 1000mg per 30 pounds of body weight of the dog.

There are an overwhelming number of Fish Oils to choose from in the market, so how to decide which is the best fish oil for dogs? So here is quick overview of what to look for when choosing the best omega-3 fish oil for dogs.

Look at the label of the fish oil to check the ingredient list. The active ingredient that we are looking for in the fish oil for dogs is EPA and DHA. However, the brand of fish oil you chose for your dog will have other kinds of fatty acids too. Check the label to see the actual amount of EPA and DHA before buying the fish oil to supplement your dog’s diet.

Coconut Oil for Dogs

The benefits of coconut oil for dogs are well documented by now. Coconut oil is not just a popular choice of natural oil for humans but coconut oil is good for dogs too. In fact,coconut oil is one of the best oils to add to your dog’s food.

Dogs who suffer from digestive issues and have dry flaky skin benefit a lot by adding coconut oil to their diet. Coconut oil is also recommended for dogs who have stinky breath and it also helps in weight loss in dogs.

Also Read: 9 Effective Ways to Reduce Weight in Dogs

Natural Coconut oil can also be used externally. Coconut oil is the best oil for dogs with itchy skin. Besides adding Coconut Oil to Dog Food, there are many other uses of Coconut Oil for your dog –

  • Rub some coconut oil on your dog’s body and leave it on for some time, before giving your dog a bath, for a shiny, soft and fragrant fur.
  • Take some coconut oil on a soft piece of cloth and rub it inside their ears to clean and moisturise your dog’s ears.
  • Rub Coconut Oil on the paws and elbows to reduce dryness and calluses.
  • Mix coconut oil with baking soda to make an excellent, natural toothpaste for your dog.

Also Read: Is Toothpaste Bad For Dogs?

When choosing the best Coconut Oil for your dog, look for the cold-pressed, extra virgin variety of coconut oil to get the maximum benefits. Simply pour 1 tsp of cold-pressed coconut oil on the dog food before serving. Most dogs love the smell of coconut oil and will happily clean up their bowl of dog food.

At FurrMeals Ready-to-Eat Fresh Dog Food, we believe in the power of coconut oil for your dog. Our recipes Herbed Chicken & Rice and Fresh Cottage Cheese & Peas are supplemented with the required amount of coconut oil. So, if your dog is already on the FurrMeals Fresh Dog Food Plan, then you do not need to add an extra helping of coconut oil in their diet.

Flaxseed Oil for Dogs

Flaxseed Oil is an excellent natural oil that help dogs with allergies, mobility issues, arthritis, blood pressure, inflammation issues and kidney problems. High in alpha linolenic omega-3s, Flaxseed Oil is as good as Fish Oil in boosting heart health in dogs.

Flaxseed Oil is a great substitute to Fish Oil for dogs who are allergic to fish oil but still need help with mobility issues and inflammations.

Ground Flaxseed is a safe way to add the benefits of flaxseed oil to the dog food. High in fibre, Flaxseed powder will also improve the digestive health of your dog. 1/2tsp of Flaxseed Oil or ground Flaxseed per 30 pound of dog weight is the ideal dosage of Flaxseed Oil for Dogs. It is best to start small and then add gradually to reach the recommended amount.

FurrMeals Ready-to-Eat Fresh Dog Fo

od recipes are supplemented with Flaxseed Oil and ground Flaxseed to make sure that your furry gets all the amazing benefits that comes with the addition of this natural supplement.

Olive Oil for Dogs

Olive Oil also comes in our list of Best Oils for dogs. Olive Oil is knownfor building the immune system of dogs and helps dogs with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Olive Oil is also one of the best oils for dogs with itchy skin. Add Olive Oil to your dog’s food bowl to keep their epidermal layer of the skin plump and well-hydrated. This gives their fur a healthy look and shine.

Applying Olive Oil on your dog’s skin and fur will also help to improve the skin and fur quality. However, be careful not to apply too much olive oil on your dog’s skin as it will make the skin greasy and promote bacterial and yeast growth on the skin.

How to Choose and Store Olive Oil for your dog?

Be careful of the kind of Olive Oil you choose for your dog. Choose extra virgin, cold pressed Olive Oil as it is the best olive oil for dogs.

Try avoiding the olive oils that are used for cooking purpose when substituting your dog’s food with olive oil as these variants are mixed with other ingredients, and some of them may not be suitable for your dog.

How much Olive Oil can I give to your dog?

The easiest way to add olive oil into the dog food is to drizzle some over the fresh dog food that you are giving your dog. A daily serving of 1tsp per 20 pound of body weight of your dog is the ideal dosage of Olive Oil for dogs.

Like many of the other oils, Olive Oil is also very unstable and must be stored carefully to increase its shelf life. Always store Olive Oil in a dark coloured bottle away from direct sunlight or any other heat source.

How do you know if you should add oil to the Dog Food?

Although, all dogs will benefit by the addition of healthy oils in their diet, but some dogs need it more than others. if your dog is on a particular dog food diet for some time and is suffering from skin allergies, itchy skin, dry-flaky skin or dull coat then you must supplement the dog food you are serving with a good oil for dogs. You should also look for alternative dog foods that have a better balance of nutrition.

In general, a balanced fresh dog food diet is always better than a dry commercial kibble diet because the nutrients in fresh dog food are more bio-available, is natural, chemical free, preservatives free and also keeps your dog better hydrated.

Oils are also good for dogs who are suffering from inflammatory diseases like arthritis, cancer or have some organ damage. These dogs need an extra helping of omega-3 and omega-6 in their diet and oils are some of the best sources of omega-3 and omega-6 for dogs.

As always, before adding any supplement to your dog’s diet, make sure to check with your veterinarian or a Canine Nutritionist. Most natural, fresh, wet dog food brands are already supplementing their meals with oils, so make sure to check that before adding any oil. If your furry is on a FurrMeals Fresh Dog Food diet, then no extra oil needs to added as the meals, unless your veterinarian has prescribed for the same.

Even the best oils for dogs can have negative effects on the body if you feed more than the recommended dosage. Adding too much oil in their diet can cause diarrhoea, weight gain, pancreatitis and vitamin deficiencies. Fish Oil also prolongs the process of blood clotting. So, if your dog is scheduled for surgery and then it is best to remove fish oil from your dog’s diet at least 5 days before surgery to avoid any complications due to delayed blood clotting.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

Posted on by — Leave a comment

7 Home Cooked Fresh Dog Food that are Good for Sick Dogs

Just like we humans, dogs too lose their appetite when they are sick. Most often a sick dog will refuse to eatthe regular dog food. In fact, in most cases refusing to eat is the first sign of sickness that the pet parents notices.

It is very heart wrenching for a pet parent to watch their sick dog refusing to eat and turn away from their bowl of dog food. However, you must remember that one missed meal is nothing to worry about. Don’t stress about it too much.

However, if your dog refuses to eat the whole day, even after you have tried offering their favourite treat, then it is time to visit the vet.

If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhoea, bloating, fever, recovering from a surgery or illness, then your vet will recommend feeding your dog some homecooked light and soft dog food diet, that is easy to digest. A fresh wet dog food diet is best at this time as it also gives the body the much-needed hydration along with the nutrition that the body needs to recover.

Here are some simple home cooked fresh dog food that you can easily make at home and will help your sick dog feel better. These simple and healthy dog food meals will also give them the energy to recover faster from the ailment.

1. Boiled Chicken & White Rice

All you need is boneless chicken and some white rice. Boil it together, cut the chicken into small pieces and serve it together. Leave it a bit moist to increase the palatability of the meal.

Chicken Rice is easy on the stomach, is filling and also gives the right amount of energy to the body to help in the recovery process.

2. Boiled Pumpkin

Peel, cut and boil some pumpkin. Cool it to room temperature and serve to your dog. You can also add some boiled carrot to the meal.

Pumpkin is high in fibre and helps to regulate your dog’s digestive system. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals. The taste and texture of boiled pumpkin is also loved by most dogs.

3. Boiled Egg

Eggs are a great source of protein and contains essential amino acids. Boiled egg is also easy to digest and can settle your dog’s upset stomach. Most dogs love egg.

Even when they refuse to eat their regular dog food, they seldom say no to a boiled egg.

4. Bone Broth

Bone Broth is a nutritious, richly flavoured, easily digestible liquid dog food that is perfect for dogs with upset stomach. It is also great for dogs who are recovering from surgery or from any chronic diseases. Bone Broth also increases the moisture and palatability of most dog foods and encourage dogs with even reduced appetite to eat their regular dog food.

However, making Bone Broth at home takes time. The cooking time to get a good broth from the bones is about 10-12 hrs. It is always a good idea to keep some bone broth handy in the freezer and keep adding to the regular dog food that your dog eats.

Making a perfect Bone Broth for dogs can be tricky as the cooking temperature has to be just right throughout the process to get all the collagens for the bones released in the water. FurrMeals Chicken Bone Broth is the easiest and safest way to serve the perfect Chicken Bone Broth to your furry.

Easy to store and easy to serve, FurrMeals Chicken Bone Broth is an excellent addition to every dog’s diet. You can add it to your dog’s regular dog food as topper or give it as a meal in itself or freeze it into small cubes and serve as a snack.

5. Boiled Potato

Potatoes contain a starch which helps dogs with diarrhoea.Boil, cool, peel, mash or cube the potatoes and give to your dog.

You should never give your dog raw potatoes. Potatoes contain a compound called Solanine which is toxic for dogs. Boiling reduces the levels of Solanine and makes it safe for dogs to have boiled potatoes.

As potatoes are high in starch, which breaks down to carbohydrate, so feeding too many potatoes can lead to weight gain and obesity. So, moderation is the key.

6. Yogurt and White Rice

Yogurt is a good source of calcium and protein. It is also a probiotic that will help your dog’s digestive system. Most dogs love the taste of yogurt and are willing to have it even when sick.

Adding rice to yogurt will make it a filling meal and also give their body the much needed energy for the recovery process.

If your dog has lactose intolerance or has difficulty digesting yogurt, then make sure to dilute it with water.

7. Banana

Feeding your dog some Banana is a great way to get their digestive track back in order. 2-5 slices of banana, depending on the size of your dog can be fed 2 times a day to help soothe the stomach.

The above list is of simple homecooked dog food are only intended for dogs who have only mild symptoms and are refusing to eat. Dogs who have pre-existing conditions like cancer, diabetes, pancreatitis, heart condition, allergies and other such ailments need additional nutrition and special diets to stay healthy.

Occasionally, even mild symptoms could be a sign of an underlying serious condition in dogs. Always check with your vet before taking the treatment and the dog food choice in your own hands.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

9 Effective Ways to Reduce Weight in Dogs

According to the latest veterinary report, over half of the household dog and cat population are overweight. This means that over half of the dogs are at the risk of developing weight related and life-threatening health conditions in their lifetime – like arthritis, heart conditions, high blood pressure, kidney failures, diabetes and even some forms of cancer.

Obesity is caused due to an imbalance between the calorie intake and calorie expenditure. Some dogs have a clinical condition that is leading to obesity and they need medical intervention to overcome this problem. For all the other dogs, the main cause of obesity is the type and amount of dog food that they eat. So, It’s important to monitor your pet’s weight, Read these 9 crucial tips for dog weight lose.

Tips to Reduce Weight in Dogs

1. Calculate Calories

It is important that you know how many calories your pet needs in a day. Unless you are aware of that you will not be able to feed your pet correctly.

In case you are feeding your dog a dry dog food, do not go by the feeding guide listed at the back of the dry dog food bag. The feeding guide is designed for adult, un-spayed, active dogs who go for regular treks, hikes and very long walks. This kind of activity is generally not possible in city dwelling pets.

If you have a senior dog, who is spayed and spends most of the time indoors, you will be required to feed 20-30% less than what is listed at the back of the dry dog food bag. Even for dogs who spend most of their time indoors, the feeding guide needs to be adjusted accordingly. Ask you vet or consult a Certified Canine Nutritionist to find the exact calorific requirement of your dog.

As a thumb rule for calculating the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) in Dogs you need to follow the formula
RER = 70 x (weight in kg)^0.75

Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)
The multiplier differs from dog to dog depending on their age and activity levels. A Canine Nutritionist is best to guide you about the right Multiplier that you should use to know calculate the right calorie requirement of your dog in a day that will help your dog lose weight.

2. Measure Meals
One of the biggest reasons for the weight gain in the pet community is guess work by pet parents. If you are feeding your dog a dry dog food then a measuring cup is a must have equipment. Too many pet parents simply use their guesswork while pouring out the dog food into their doggy’s bowl and that can cause overfeeding.

The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention have done studies to prove that even an excess of 10 extra kibble per day in your furry’s bowl can add up to a pound of extra body weight on your furry.

If your furry is on a customised fresh dog food plan like Furr Meals Fresh Dog Food then the problem of measuring meals is solved as your will receive meal size packs thereby making it even more convenient and accurate to feed your furry the right meal size.

3. Change the Diet
Reports have shown that obesity in dogs is most common in dogs who are on a dry dog food diet or on a homebased diet that is designed and prepared by pet parents themselves. Dry dog food are loaded with carbohydrates and lead to excess weight in dogs.

A fresh dog food diet is considered better than the dry dog food. But when pet parents start making diet plans on their own, without adequate knowledge of canine nutrition, they end up harming their pet more than helping them in their weight loss journey.

Choose custom designed diet plans like FurrMeals Weight Management Plan that help your dog systematically lose extra weight through natural, high protein, low carbohydrate diets and portion control.

4. Increase Exercise
Every dog has a particular physical exercise that they love the most. In could be a game of fetch, a swim in the pool, long hikes or jumping hurdles. As you notice a gain of weight in your furry, its time to encourage more of the physical activity they love.

If your couch potato does now show an interest in intense activities, then start small. Walking is the easiest and safest way for your dog to stay active. For dogs even a 30-minute walk daily helps to build immunity, improve heart health and also reduce behavioural issues.

For obese dogs start with a small goal of 20 minutes of exercise every day. If your dog cannot manage 20 minutes in a stretch, take small multiple walks in a day. Look for cues when your furry is ready to stop. The aim is to get at least 20-30 minutes of walk in a day by the end of second week. As you dog gets stronger and leaner, increase the exercise time to the reach the breed specific exercise requirement.

Swimming is a fantastic exercise for overweight dogs as it is low impact and also protects the joints while at the same time gives a full body exercise.

5. Limit Treats
Treats are the junk food in your dog’s life. They might look tiny but too many commercial dog treats are sugar and fat laden calorie bombs that go straight to their waistline and are harmful even for dogs.

If you do want to give your dog some treats then stick to natural and safe treats like carrot sticks, oven roasted sweet potato bits or functional treats that help in teeth cleaning. If you do want to give your dog commercial treat then make a daily treat box after counting the calories in it and every family member can dig into the box for treats for your furry for the day.

Whatever treat you are giving to your dog are adding extra calorie to your furry’s weight management dog food plan of the day. Count the calories in the treat and make sure to limit it no to more than 10% of the daily calorie requirement of your furry.

6. Cut Down on Carbs
Wrong diet is the primary cause of excess weight in pets. Most pet dogs are fed a high-carbohydrate dry dog food diet instead of a fresh protein rich diet. If you know how to analyse dog food labels, you would know that most of the commercial dog food contain more than 60% carbohydrates.

A healthy dog food should have the right balance of bio-available protein and carbohydrate. A weight loss dog food, on the other hand, is high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

A fresh dog food diet is the best way to lose weight. Fresh dog food like FurrMeals Fresh Dog Food is high in protein, low in carbohydrate and has a high moisture content, making your furry feel fuller faster.

7. Rule out other Food Sources
Dogs are scavengers and given a chance they will get into their dog food bag on their own or dig into the dustbin to eat the leftover crust of the pizza. A Weight Management Plan can only be successful if all such sources are removed.

Make sure that every family member is on board and understand that your furry is on a weight loss journey. No table scraps should be served to dogs who are on a weight management program.

8. Use Non-Food Rewards for Training
Even though your furry loves a tasty snack, but there are other ways to reward your dog and show your love. Verbal praises, belly rubs, head scratches and even a 10 minute high intensity play time with their favourite toy are equally good tools to reward your furry.

Even when you do need to use food as reward for your furry, look for low calorie low carbohydrate treat options like fresh vegetables sticks, fresh meat-based treats and frozen fruit cubes. Make sure that all treats that you give in a day do not make up more than 10% of the daily calorie requirement of your dog.

9. Supplement Wisely
Not all dogs need the help of supplements to lose weight. Most dogs will show a positive change in their weight my following the above steps. However, some natural supplements will help begin the weight loss journey and you might consider using them to make the process easier and faster.

Some overweight and senior dogs might have difficulty in exercising due to joint inflammations. Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements will make it easier for them to exercise by improving joint health and mobility. Bone Broth is an excellent way to introduce these in your furry’s diet plan naturally.

Almost every pet benefits from taking a daily dose of Fish Oil which is packed with anti-oxidants and omega-3 fatty acids which are proven to prevent numerous diseases. Studies have shown that Fish Oil also helps to ease joint pains and encourage healthy weight loss.

L-carnitine is an amino acid that is shown to promote lean muscle mass and aid weight loss. It is found naturally in red meat, fish and poultry. You can also buy L-carnitine supplements and add it to your furry’s dog food bowl.

Pet Obesity is a widespread epidemic. Overweight pets have poor quality of life and have shorter life span. So, when the excess weight is such a huge cause of concern, it is important to take corrective action as soon as you notice the weight going off the charts.

Your dog does not go to the market to buy food for themselves nor do they pour out food into his bowl on its own. It is us pet parents who are doing the task for them. Therefore, it is our responsibility as pet parents to make sure that we make correct dog food choices, feed them the correct serving size and give the right amount of exercise.

A fresh dog food diet like FurrMeals Fresh Dog Food, which is perfectly balanced with the right amount of proteins and fats, and has the right amount of vitamin and mineral rich veggies is any day better than dry and dehydrated kibble diet.

Even if your fur baby has put on a bit of weight, remember that today is as good as any other day to start a positive change in your furry’s life. By using these simple suggestions, you would very soon be on your way to a healthier and happier pet.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Tips For New Puppy Owners

So, you decide to bring home a new puppy and are looking forward to exciting and fun filled days ahead with your pup. It’s true, you puppy will fill up your life with endless amount of joy and love. However, it is also important to understand the responsibility that a new puppy brings with it. It requires a lot of work and commitment to raise a healthy, happy and well-behaved pup.

Start early to make sure that your pup learns good habits early on to get him on the right track to being the dog that every pet owner will envy.

At FurrMeals Pet Food we are regularly interacting with new pet parents; consulting them on the right puppy nutrition and also help them in designing custom-made FurrMeals Puppy Food Plans. We always encourage the need to instil good habits in their pup from the early days.

Commitment of all family members is very important when you are trying to train your puppy to be a well-behaved dog. So, bring all family members on the same page before you go out looking for a pup to bring home.

Here is a list of the top tips for everynew pet parent:

1. Invest in good quality equipment for your puppy: Although they may be a bit expensive, but investing in good quality equipment for your puppy is very important.

Some of the puppy equipment that we recommend getting as soon as you bring your puppy home are:

  • Food and water bowl of the right size and of a durable material. Choose steel bowls over plastic ones.
  • A good quality and durable leash. Your pup will keep chewing on it so make sure to check the leash every time you take your pup out for a walk.
  • A soft harness or collar. Make sure it is the right fit and allows for easy movement too.
  • A comfortable and snug dog bed. Your puppy needs a place to relax and sleep every few hours and the bed will come in very handy.
  • Good quality toys that your pup can chew, play and cuddle with.
  • A good quality and durable crate that will fit even when your pup becomes a fully grown adult.

2. Read up on puppy training: Remember that the best training starts now. Puppies learn very fast and with positive reinforcement, your puppy will be obedient and well-trainedin no time. There are many wonderful training books and great websites that will help you in this. Read up as much as you can and try the techniques with your pup.

You can also enrol your puppy in training classes to give a jump start to the process. Your puppy will learn basic obedience like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘come’, ‘fetch’ etc. Your puppy will also get an opportunity to socialise with other puppies there which is also an important part of their growing up.

Keep the training light, fun and positive and you would be surprised by how fast your puppy learns them and also enjoys the training sessions.

3. Crate train your puppy : You might think it is cruel to put a puppy in a crate or kennel, however it is the exact opposite. Do not consider the crate as a place where you will send your pup for a timeout or punishment for being naughty but instead it will be the safe haven for your puppy. Dogs too need a place that they can call their den and the crate will serve that purpose.

When you begin crate training, your puppy will howl, whine, scratch the crate and give you the puppy eyes to be let out. Do not react or give attention to this behaviour. They will give up the effort after some time and start resting in the crate. After they have rested quietly in the crate for some time, let them out and reward them. Have 2-3 crate sessions in a day and keep increasing the duration of the crate time. You can also put treat and food inside the crate to encourage them to go into the crate. After a few days of training, your puppy will love staying inside the crate.

Crate training will also come in handy when:

  • You need assistance in potty training
  • You need to keep your puppy and house safe when you have to leave them alone in the house
  • Your puppyneeds his own quiet and safe place to rest and relax
  • You are required to restrict movement of your puppyafter a surgery, medical procedure or injury that demands complete rest
  • Travelling with you puppy

4. Create puppy safe areas : Your new pup will be super naughty and will get into places where they should not go. A baby gate will come in handy, especially if you have an open kitchen layout and you do not want your pup to go inside the kitchen.

It will be impossible to be on a puppy watch 24 hours, so cordon off the areas that you do not want your pup to enter and create a puppy-safe area, where they can safely wander around without creating too much trouble. Put some toys, a water bowl and the dog bed in the puppy-safe zone.

5. Have a consistent daily routine for your puppy : Establish a routine as soon as you get your puppy home. Puppies thrive best when they have a consistent schedule. Create a schedule for meal time, play time, potty time, training time, walk time and stick to it daily.

Your puppy will soon learn the routine and will behave accordingly. Spend a lot of time cuddling and playing with your puppy as it will make them feel safe, secure and happy.

6. Potty train your puppy : Potty training is the most frustrating exercise for most new puppy owners. Your puppy will not poop when you want them to and instead poop in the exact place where you do not want them to. Puppies do not have full control over their bladder till about 12 weeks of age, so accidents will be often and expected.

Take your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after you puppy has a nap, after playtime and before going to bed. Be consistent with the timing and schedule. The crate will also come in handy at this time as your puppy will learn to control the bladder when inside the crate. Teach your puppy to stay in the crate when you have to leave them alone in the house for some time to avoid accidents on the carpet in your absence.

Be regular and consistent in taking your puppy out, and over a period of time both you and your puppy will learn to time themselves.

7. Encourage good behaviour in your puppy early on : A behaviour that may look cute on your puppy might be extremely annoying or dangerous in a fully grown dog. Behaviour like jumping on strangers, stealing from plates, climbing on tables, chewing on wires are some of the behaviours that should be discouraged from puppy stage.

Teach your puppy to enjoy being touched and held from early on. Open their mouth, run your finger on their gums to prepare them for teeth brushing, make them comfortable with their paws being touched to prepare them for nail trims, stroke their body to prepare them for grooming. It is easier to handle an adult dog who has been made comfortable with touch from an early age.

8. Choose the best puppy food : Feed your puppy the best quality puppy food that you afford. Serving a high quality, balanced and fresh food diet is probably the best investment that you will make for your puppy’s health and happiness. FurrMeals Puppy Food offers fresh ingredients like chicken, egg, veggies, seeds, oils and herbs that is combined in the right proportion to promote healthy growth and development of your puppy. Your puppy’s nutritional requirements are different from ana adult dog and FurrMeals Puppy Food is designed accordingly, in keeping with the international standards set by AAFCO.

Custom designed FurrMeals Puppy Plans are the ideal way to get your puppy started on a fresh and balanced meal plan. With constant watch on your puppy’s growth, our nutritionists make sure that you puppy is getting all the nutrients required for their perfect growth and development.

Your puppy is going to be the most wonderful addition to your family. Enjoy this wonderful puppy stage while it lasts. Your right decisions and actions at this stage will go a long way in setting your puppy up for success in the adult life.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Can Dogs Eat Oats?

Being a Canine Nutritionist, one of the most common questions that I face from new pet parents and from those who are planning to shift their dog from commercial dry dogfood to the homemade fresh dog food diet is – “What are the human foods that I can give to my dog?” or “What vegetables can dogs eat?”.

Another frequent question that I face quiet regularly is regarding one of the healthy breakfast choices for humans – Oats and “Can dogs eat oats?”

Let me address this question right away – “Yes! Oatmeal is good for dogs but there are certain things that you must keep in mind before you start feeding your dog oatmeal.”

Oats are amongst the healthiest grains available and are also amongst the top healthy breakfast choices the world over. These fiber-rich grains are a great source of protein and are packed with vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants.

In addition to that, oats are gluten-free, making them a great choice for those who are gluten intolerance.

In humans, a regular consumption of oat and oatmeal has many health benefits like reduced risk of heart diseases, lower blood sugar levels and weight management.

Are Grain Bad for Dogs? If so, then if Oats is a grain then should I give it to my dog?

If we are saying that oats are good for dogs then how can we avoid addressing one of the most debated topics in Pet Nutrition – Are grains good or bad for dogs?

We believe that grains offer a variety of health benefits to most dogs but it may not be the right choice for some dogs.

Marc Smith, DVM and Casey Damron, DVM wrote in their book Eastern Food Therapy for Pets that grains provide yin to the dog’s diet. Grains are more cooling in nature than meat and are helpful for dogs with conditions that cause inflammation of the digestive tract, ulcers, IBD etc.

However, an increasing number of dogs are showing allergic reaction to some grains, especially wheat, soy and corn. Some dogs have extreme gluten intolerance and suffer even with a slightest residue of gluten in their food. For these dogs a grain free diet should be considered. But, for all the other dogs, grains are very well digested, tolerated and the nutrients are absorbed in the body.

According to Dr. Richard Pitcairn, DVM, PhD – Oats, in particular, are a great choice for pets because it contains more protein per calorie than any other common grains. Oats have anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing properties and have a calming effect on the nervous system of dogs, so a good addition to the diet of dogs who suffer from anxiety issues.

Benefits of oats in your dog’s diet?

Oats are high in fiber and contain many nutrients, minerals and antioxidants. Oats are gluten free and are a good alternative source of carbohydrates for dogs who are sensitive to wheat and other grains.

Oats promote healthy skin in dogs: Oatmeal contains Vitamin B that helps maintain the skin and coat of your furry. It also contains the omega-6 fatty acid -linoleic acid, which also helps to keep your furry’s skin strong and healthy.

Oats helps in bone strength in dogs: Oats are also rich in potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, iron and silica, which boost the absorption of calcium in the body that in turn strengthens the bones.

Oats improve the immune system in dogs: Oats also strengthens the immune system, pancreas and spleen. In fact, out of all the grains, oats has the least number of dogs that are allergic to it.

Oats support digestion in dogs: As oats are rich in fiber, so it helps to regulate the bowel movements of your furry while also maintaining the blood glucose level of your dog.

Oats lowers cholesterol levels in dogs: If your dog suffers from high cholesterol due to genetic or metabolic abnormalities, then oatmeal helps to lower it. Oats are good source of beta glucan. Beta Glucan is a type of fiber that is associated with improvement of heart health and reduces LDL cholesterol.

How much Oats can I give to my dog?

It is important to remember that you must introduce any new food to your dog’s diet gradually and observe how well they handle it before adding any more to the diet. If you observe any kind of discomfort in your pet after eating a new food, then you must stop, wait and few days and try again.

Just because you eat oats for breakfast every day and your dog also loves oats, it does not mean that your dog can also eat it everyday. According to American Kennel Club, you can give 1 tbsp (15gm) of cooked oatmeal for every 9kg of body weight of your dog.

Do not give your dog too much oatmeal as it is high in carbohydrates and calories. Consuming a large amount of oats in one meal can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and bloating. Half a cup of cooked oatmeal 2-3 times a week is enough for a large size dog.

Potential Side-effects of giving oats to your dog?

Although oats are a good source of nutrition for your dog but not all types of oats are suitable for them.

Flavored and ready-to-eat oatmeals are high in sugar or sugar substitutes like xylitol that are toxic for dogs. Go for the least processed version that is un-flavored and cook in water before serving to your furry.

A sudden increase in fiber intake in their diet can also cause unpleasant side-effects in your furry like bloating, gas and gastrointestinal upset. Start with only 3 gm a day and increase by 3 gm every few days till you reach the limit as per your furry’s weight.

Can Dogs eat raw oats?

Adding raw oats to their breakfast smoothies is what many health fanatics have started doing. The idea is that it keeps them feeling fuller longer.

However, when it comes to your furry friend, you should avoid giving raw oatmeal. Raw oatmeal is difficult to digest and can cause stomach upset, bloating and general discomfort in your dog.

How to cook oatmeal for dogs?

Always make oatmeal with water instead of milk when you are making it for your dog. Dogs are sensitive to dairy and cannot breakdown lactose easily so it is best to avoid milk in their diet.

Oatmeal for dogs skin

An oatmeal bath is good for your dog skin and fur, especially those who have an itchy skin or have skin allergies. Make a fine powder of the oatmeal in mixer and then mix it with some warm water. Apply it on your furry. Be extra generously around the especially itchy parts of the body. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes and then wash it off using a mild shampoo. As the oatmeal paste is non-toxic, so you do not have to worry even if your furry licks some of it while it waits to shampoo.

To conclude, I would like to state that although Oats are good for dogs, but too much of any particular ingredient can be upsetting to the stomach and lead to nutrient deficiencies. What your furry really needs is a well-balanced, species appropriate fresh dog food diet like FurrMeals Ready-to-Eat Fresh Dog Food.

Posted on by

Is Toothpaste Bad For Dogs?

So one day, your dog’s breath smells bad, and you wonder if you can brush his teeth with a bit of your toothpaste to get that all familiar minty fresh breath. And, suddenly, like a responsible pet parent that you are, you wonder, “Is toothpaste bad for dogs?”

If you, too, are one of those pet parents who have faced this dilemma and thought of using your toothpaste to brush your furry’s teeth, then you must read the on.

Is Human toothpaste bad for dogs?

You share almost everything with your dog. Your home, your bed, your pillow, your cookies, your feelings, and you even pick up your dog’s medication from the human pharmacy. While sharing all that is fine, you must draw the line to share your toothpaste and toothbrush because human toothpaste is bad for dogs. Toothpaste is a major health hazard for your furry. In fact, if you have a hyperactive, snoopy pup at home, it is safer to put your toothpaste on the top shelf, as far away from his paws as possible.

Why is toothpaste bad for dogs?

3 components in human toothpaste that make it great for humans while at the same time extremely toxic for our furry friends are:

1- Fluoride: Toothpaste is designed to rinse out of the mouth and not be swallowed because Fluoride in toothpaste is not meant to be ingested. Humans have learned it over the years as we were trained to do so since our childhood, but how do you explain that to your Golden Retriever pup?

If your furry consumes a large amount of Fluoride in one go, then acute fluoride toxicity can occur due to long-term ingestion. When pet parents use their Fluoride toothpaste to brush their furry’s teeth, then due to toothpaste’s frequent use for months or years, the dog’s body ingests so much Fluoride that it reaches the toxic level in the body.

Some of the signs of Fluoride toxicity in dogs are:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Restlessness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Lack of bladder control
  • Seizures, in severe cases.

If you wonder if it is bad for dogs to eat toothpaste, then yes, it is very bad for dogs to eat toothpaste because most human toothpaste contains Fluoride in high enough quantity to poison a dog.

2- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): The foam you get while brushing is due to a chemical called Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or SLS. SLS is used to create foam in most human hygiene products like shampoos, soaps, laundry detergent, and even toothpaste. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regards SLS as safe for only short-term topical use in humans.

In dogs, SLS ingestion in sufficient quantity can cause gastrointestinal upset. That is why the pet-friendly toothpaste in the market does not contain foam. SLS is another reason why we need to say ‘Yes’ to your question that ‘Is human toothpaste bad for dogs?

3- Xylitol: You may have already heard of Xylitol and how it is increasingly becoming a part of our everyday life as a common sugar substitute in food. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is one of the ingredients of human toothpaste and is considered safe for humans. However, the toxicity of this product in our canine companions is rapid.

Ingesting a large amount of Xylitol can cause a life-threatening condition in dogs by reducing the sugar levels drastically within 10-15 minutes. Eating a large quantity of any product containing Xylitol, like toothpaste, mint candy, sugar-free chewing gums, or any human food containing the natural sweetener Xylitol can cause liver failure in dogs.

Xylitol is extremely dangerous for your dog, and this is one of the main ingredients that make human toothpaste poisonous for dogs. It can cause 2 problems in your dog’s system – sudden low blood sugar and irreversible liver damage, both of which can be fatal for dogs.

Some of the signs of Xylitol poisoning in dogs are:

  • Vomiting
  • Lethargy
  • Lack of muscle coordination
  • Black tarry stool
  • Seizures
  • Collapse
  • Coma and can even cause death

Diagnosis of toothpaste poisoning in dogs

While most dogs will show an immediate toxic reaction to the toothpaste, some dogs will not show any sign until the liver is irreversibly damaged.

If you happen to catch your dog in the act of eating your toothpaste, then it is best to rush to the vet. After verifying your concerns, the vet will do a complete blood profile to check for hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and a liver report to ensure no liver damage.

What kind of toothpaste is bad for dogs?

Not all toothpaste is bad for dogs; in fact, the market is flooded with pet-friendly toothpaste specially designed for dogs. Dogs will swallow the toothpaste, so pet-friendly toothpaste is designed to be swallowed and are free of Fluorides, Xylitol and Sodium Sulfate. However, as a responsible pet parent, it is your responsibility to check each product’s label that you buy for your pet to ensure that it is 100% safe and healthy.

Causes of bad breath in dogs:

You love to cuddle with your furry and get wet kisses on your face, but sometimes their bad breath can be a mood killer. A simple sniff test will tell you if your dog has a sticky, unhealthy smell in its mouth.

There are 3 main causes of bad breath in dogs:

1- Poor Dental Hygiene: This is where a doggy toothpaste comes in handy. Try to get your furry in the habit of brushing as early as possible. Try to make it part of their regular grooming.

If your dog has a yellow or brownish layer on the upper side of the teeth, close to the gums, it is because of plaque accumulation. Plaque is a mixture of salt from the saliva and bacteria, living off the food in the mouth. This is one of the causes of bad breath. Consult your vet for a plaque removing and deep cleaning session.

2- Dental Diseases: By far, the most common cause of bad breath in dogs is dental disease. When the plaque starts touching the gums, they cause inflammation of gums called Gingivitis. If untreated, it can damage the sockets of the teeth and spread to the roots. In advanced stages of dental disease, when left undetected and untreated, it not just causes bad breath but can also affect the kidney and heart.

3- Poor Diet: An unhealthy, unbalanced, low moisture diet that causes stomach bloating, acidity, gas, etc., will also result in bad breath in your dog. This can be easily managed by switching to a fresh and balanced food diet like FurrMeals Fresh Dog Food. Giving a fresh, wholesome diet with a variety of protein options keeps your dog’s gut healthy, and this will reduce the chances of bad breath.

Is Dog toothpaste important for your dog’s dental hygiene?

Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is important for their oral hygiene, and dog toothpaste is more a ‘treat’ for your dog to encourage a positive experience during brushing.

Brushing with a clean, wet cloth can also be equally effective because it is more about the scrubbing away of the food particles and plaque that is important than the actual use of toothpaste. The real benefit of using dog toothpaste is the flavor. Chicken flavored toothpaste makes brushing a happier and pleasant experience for both you and your pet.

You can also make a simply DIT Dog Toothpaste at home by mixing:

  • ¼ cup coconut oil
  • 3 tbsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt
  • ½ tsp cinnamon

So, when someone asks you, “Is toothpaste bad for dogs?” I hope you will now respond by saying, “Yes, human toothpaste is very bad for dogs. But, that does not mean that you should not brush your dog’s teeth. In fact regular brushing should be an integral part of your dog’s grooming. You can try any of the store-bought doggy toothpaste, but check the labels to ensure the 3 evils – Fluoride, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Xylitol are not in the list of ingredients.

Follow us on Instagram.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Biggest Curiosity of how long to feed puppy food is Finally Answered

Having a new furry friend at home is so exciting but it is also a huge responsibility. Your furry needs a lot of attention and care especially in terms of their diet because diet plays a very critical role in their health and long life. Many pet parents these days keep themselves updated with their furry pal’s dietary needs and in that series, FurrMeals is trying to solve one of the biggest question that the pet parents have these days; How Long to Feed Puppy Food before switching to adult Dog Food.

Before we get into the discussion of How Long to Feed Puppy Food, let us try to understand what puppy food is and why is it important to keep your pup on a puppy food diet before shifting to adult dog food. As all pups are different and have different nutritional needs, so it is important to understand the sign on when your pup is ready to shift to adult dog food and also what are your best options of puppy food in Delhi.

What is Puppy Food?

Your small furr ball is growing rapidly, building bones and muscles at a faster pace than any adult dog. Hence, they need proper nutrition for strengthening bones and teeth, gaining muscle, and providing all of the energy required for playing and learning.

But, the question still remains, what should you feed them? What can be considered as a generic puppy food?

  1. A. Tony Buffington, Professor of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at The Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital, says to keep contacting your veterinarian for such suggestions. He says, “In the first six months or so, the nutrient needs are changing very quickly. And, they leave the least margin for error.”

This is an important point to note because these are the formative years of your pup and is building him up for a life. Your puppy diet should have a good quality protein, should be calorie-rich and should have the right amount of calcium. It is important to note that meat consumptions out of canned food should not in your priority list as responsible pet parents.

What is the Best Puppy Food?

According to Jennifer Freeman, DVM, Resident Veterinarian and Pet Care Specialist at PetSmart, looking for the right diet for dogs has significant health benefits. “Premium dog food would contain meat for protein, vitamin-rich vegetables and fruit, and omega fatty acids for a lustrous coat,” Freeman told NBC News, adding that “it is also likely to include less fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.”

As the time has changed, pet parents are more concerned about what to feed their furry friends and since they require nutrition and meals similar to that of the human, we cannot just let them have a random dog food packet found on the shelves of a supermarket. Higher-quality ingredients, improved sourcing, and advanced diet recipes all contribute to your furry’s optimal health. Understanding your puppy’s specific nutritional requirements is just as crucial as knowing what to feed him.

HOW MANY TIMES IN A DAY SHOULD YOU FEED YOUR PUPPY?

How long to feed puppy food to your furry friend?

The first year of your pup’s life is way more important than you might consider it to be. The first year of your pup’s life can be divided in to periods based on their changing nutritional needs and the number of meals per day to feed

The first year can be divided into four different phases:

The first year can be divided into four different phases:

• 6-12 Weeks : Your puppy needs the specially designed puppy food at this age. Puppy food is formulated keeping in mind their specific nutritional needs for healthy development of your puppy. Adult dog food is not designed for the rapid puppy growth and would thus deprive your pup of some essential nutrients. Nutritional requirements are normally met with four meals a day at this age.

• 3-6 Months : Reduce the number of feeds from four to thrice a day at some point during this period. By 12 weeks, a puppy’s belly flab should be gone. Continue to feed puppy-size portions before their body type matures if they are still chubby at this age.

• 6-12 Months : By this phase, you can start feeding your furry pal twice a day. Switch from nutrient-rich puppy food to adult maintenance food. Small breeds can make the switch at 7 to 9 months, while larger breeds can do so at 12, 13, and even 14 months. It’s better to be on puppy food a little bit long than not long enough.

• After age 1 year : Adult dogs are typically fed two meals a day. You should typically calculate their Recommended Daily Allowance based on the age, weight and breed of the dog and then divide that into 2 meals a day.

The pet parents should always focus on the body structure of their pup to identify when to make the switch to adult dog food. A puppy who has attained 100% of the expected adult weight should be switched to adult dog food or else he will gain excess weight. Your Vet is also a good person to consult on How Long to Feed Puppy Food and when to make the switch to adult dog food.

When to Switch from Puppy Food

Besides keeping a watch on the weight chart of your pup, you can also identify by the way your pup eats puppy food to know when to make the switch. If your dog begins to miss meals or picks at food he would normally gobble up, it might be time to switch from a puppy to an adult diet. Puppy food contains more calories, which can make him feel full and reduce his desire to eat.

If you’ve already moved to an adult formula, your dog can will need a smaller portion size or less food at each meal.

The key to a good food transition is to take it slowly. Mix a small amount of adult food with your furry’s favourite puppy meal and gradually raise the amount over the course of a week, while reducing the puppy food.

You should only be feeding your dog adult food by the end of the week. It’s less likely that he’ll have gastrointestinal problems if he changes his diet gradually.

Best Fresh Puppy Food

Home-made Puppy Food in Town

As the pet parents, you would always want the best for your furry friend. From all the wide range of puppy food in the market ranging from premium packaged puppy food to high quality puppy food, byfar  the best puppy is fresh, balanced, home cooked puppy food made with real ingredients.

By should humans be the only ones eating a well-balanced, fresh food diet; your pet has the same need to do so. FurrMeals Fresh Pet Food is setting the standard for quality fresh puppy food in Delhi and all over India.

FurrMeals Home Cooked Fresh Pet Food is made using the freshest ingredients that have been hand-picked to ensure that your furry friend gets a nutritious meal. Each meal is weighed to make it suitable for your fur buddy and cooked slowly and lightly to maintain the nutritional value.

Therefore, to conclude, the answer to the question, How Long to Feed Puppy Food doesn’t come up with a simple answer. As pet parents, you need to invest your time, knowledge and expert advice to identify the right time to switch you pup from puppy food to adult food to make sure that your pup gets the optimum health benefits from the food.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

The question all pet parents should be having – How much food should I feed my puppy?

Congrats on your newest addition to your family by getting a four-legged best friend. We understand the excitement and trepidation that comes with bringing home a furry ball of joy. If you’re a new or first-time pet parent, you must be having a lot of questions one of which for sure is “How much food should I feed my puppy?” which is one of the most reasonable questions as you don’t want to overfeed your puppy to make him/her obese and thus hamper him/her growing in a healthy state. You also wouldn’t want to underfeed your pup to ensure he/she doesn’t suffer from malnutrition and thus a slow or negligible growth. So, let’s answer your questions one by one.

How much food should I feed my puppy?

During the first six to eight weeks of life, the puppy should stay with the mother and be allowed to nurse as they must nurse from the mother. The mother’s milk provides the best nutrition and provides antibodies to help protect your puppy from disease yet sometimes it isn’t possible or viable for the puppies to be kept with the mother due to the mother being diagnosed with eclampsia or mastitis and this is exactly when you must select the best puppy food. Now, what is the best puppy food? The best puppy food is which fits your puppy’s caloric and nutritional needs. Puppies should be fed three to four times a day therefore if you are currently feeding ¾ a cup of puppy food twice a day you should consider spacing it out by feeding ½ cup three times a day. Smaller yet well-spaced meals are not only easy to digest for puppies but it also doesn’t peak or let their energy levels fall rapidly. At around six months, it is recommended to feed your puppy two meals a day but then again this varies as per the breed of your puppy. So ‘How much food should I feed my puppy?’ is rather a subjective question.

What is the best fresh puppy food? What are some homemade puppy food options?

At Furrmeals, we offer the best fresh puppy food and it is homemade puppy food as well because we highly believe you should keep your puppy as much away from harmful artificial preservative loaded puppy food as possible. FurrMeals is packed with the freshest ingredients that are carefully hand-picked to provide a balanced meal to your furry friend. Slowly and lightly cooked to retain the nutritional value, each meal is measured to make it perfect for your buddy. Some of the homemade puppy food options that we have in store for your pup are –

1-Herbed Chicken and Rice

2- Juicy Chicken and Pasta

3- Chunky Lamb and Brown Rice

4-Fresh Cottage Cheese and Peas

and the best part? Each of the options mentioned above is not only made naturally but also loaded with the nutrients your pup needs to grow and be at its finest. We at FurrMeals, indeed believe in helping you to get the answer to “How much food should I feed my puppy?” which comes along with nutrients-loaded options.

How much dry food to feed a puppy?

After answering a bit of your “How much food should I feed my puppy?” question which is endless and subject, we would like to another great question that pet parents have on their mind. Weaning your puppy to dry and solid food should not be an overnight trial and error thing but should ideally take place over two to three weeks. First, you must select the brand which ideally is perfect for the health and nutritional requirements of your puppy. Talk to your veterinarian for specific recommendations but generally the best puppy foods will be packed with protein, calcium, and calories. When the puppy is four to six weeks of age begin introducing your puppy to puppy food by making a gruel by blending the puppy food with a milk replacer. Offer the gruel three to four times a day gradually reducing the amount of milk replaced used to make the gruel. This way your puppy gradually learns to adapt to solid food and gastric upset is minimized. By around eight weeks of age, your puppy should be eating solid food.

When to stop feeding puppy food?

Puppy food consists of high nutritional supplements and is high in calories so you might want to switch to adult food once your puppy begins to approach adulthood. There is no appropriate age when the switch should be made because it will vary with the breed, gender, and individual dog’s nutritional needs. Generally, smaller dogs approach their adulthood much faster. Small breeds up to 13 kg mature or reach their adulthood around ten to twelve months of age although some toy breeds reach maturity even faster. Medium dog breeds up to 36 kg will become an adult between twelve to sixteen months and large breed dogs weighing more than 36 kg can take up to two years to reach maturity. When switching to adult food, take it slow over one or two weeks by gradually mixing in increasing amounts of the adult food with decreasing amounts of her puppy food to minimize gastric flare-ups. So the question is when to switch from puppy food? The appropriate time to switch from puppy food to adult food when you notice your dog eating less of the puppy food or if he/she starts to put on too much weight. Feeding your dog puppy food too long can result in obesity and orthopedic problems.

Conclusion

Thus, the answer to “How much food should I feed my puppy?” is a question which mostly has no definite or proper answer as it depends on trial and error, breed and gender of the dog, etc. so the best person to ask these questions to is your vet who’ll be able to guide you properly as they watch your dog closely!