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Is there a difference between wet and dry food when feeding your dog?

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When pets eat their food, they sometimes go off one food and do not eat it. Owners, therefore, switch it up to see what can happen. But are there benefits or differences between wet and dry food? Either option will keep your dog healthy if you keep track of what they’re eating; if you’re stuck on which option to go for, keep reading to see the advantages and disadvantages of each one. So, is there a difference between wet and dry pet food when feeding your dog? Keep reading below to see how we can help and what options to provide, and how a pet food intolerance test may help your pet live a happier and healthier life.

Advantages of Wet Pet food

Wet food comes in tins or pouches and has a strong odour. It has been shown that dogs prefer to eat wet food because the texture makes it easier to chew, and the food has much more moisture than dry food. Due to this moisture, your dog will be more hydrated if their diet consists of wet food, wet food has quite a high water content, so if your dog has forgotten to drink their water, it will still be hydrated!

Moisture also means that the dog will have more water retention, keeping them full for longer; the benefit of this is that your dog can be fed less frequently. Protein is another benefit of wet food; this is great if you have a highly active dog that needs to maintain its muscle mass. Lastly, wet food tends to have fewer chemical additives added to it, allowing your dog to have a more natural diet.

Advantages of Dry Pet Food

In contrast to this, giving your dog dry food also maintains a healthy diet for them. Dry food is easy to manage; many people use it for convenience. A considerable advantage of dry food is dental hygiene; dry food doesn’t get stuck on the teeth, which ultimately prevents a plaque build-up; the complex texture of dry food also helps to keep their teeth strong and healthy. Dry food is significantly cheaper and long-lasting; it has a longer shelf-life than many wet foods and can stay in date for a few weeks or even months.

Disadvantages of Wet Food

As previously mentioned, dental hygiene is essential for dogs; wet food may leave residue on your dog’s teeth, which will result in plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Wet food can also have a higher fat content than dry food, depending on which you buy, some dogs may have a stricter diet, so it could become difficult to measure your dog’s fat intake when feeding them dog food. Lastly, wet food is much more costly for the owner as you must constantly stock up on tins or pouches.

Disadvantages of Dry Food

Dry dog food usually has more chemicals in it; nutrients can be lost during the high-heat process when creating dry food; chemicals will then be added to replace lost nutrients. Dry food also has a significantly lower water content which can cause your dog to be dehydrated; dry food also may be harsher in their mouths and cause discomfort when eating.

The Difference Between Wet and Dry Pet Food

Whichever option you go for, you will still have a healthy dog if you keep track of what they’re eating and drinking. Both options provide your dog with nutrients and will ultimately keep your dog happy and healthy; there is no right or wrong, choose what works best for you and your dog’s lifestyle. Here’s how you can find the difference between wet and dry pet food and its impact on your dog’s health.

Shop now for your pet food intolerance test.

How can you keep your Dog healthy?

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When you have a pet, it is your responsibility as the owner to have regard for their wellness of them; you may be new to this responsibility which is why we’re providing 5 tips to help you keep your pet healthy and happy. It can be easy or hard, as every dog is unique, a bit like humans. But finding a healthy diet for your dog is a lot easier if they have taken an intolerance test for pets as you can identify what foods are causing them to be unhealthy.

Dogs need exercise

If you have a dog, a walk is their favourite part of the day; this can also benefit you if you’re trying to maintain an active lifestyle. Exercise keeps your dog’s cardiovascular system in good form, which keeps them healthy; walks also help them to stay mentally stimulated, which is directly linked to their behaviour; if your dog isn’t mentally stimulated, they are more likely to misbehave for you. One long walk or two short ones daily is enough to keep you and your little friend happy and thriving.

Healthy Weight

Following on from exercise, it’s unfair to let your dog become overweight, even if they look cute. This will only make them uncomfortable and give them serious health issues. Surely, you don’t want the extra veterinary bills for these health issues. In contrast, try to keep your dog from being underweight, as this has just as many risks for your dog and may make them ill.

Find a healthy diet for your dog

A lot of owners like to feed their dogs a raw meat diet as this comes with many benefits, such as:

  • Supporting bone health
  • Strengths immune system
  • Improved skin and shiner coat
  • Supports dental health
  • Reduced body odour

Keeping track of what your dog is eating is a good method of ensuring they consume the correct nutrients.

Dental Care

It isn’t normal for dogs to have bad breath all of the time; when possible, you should take them for routine dental checks; if your dog gets a bad plaque build-up or tartar in the mouth, they may have to face more serious complications down the line. You can help your dog by providing dental care treats. You can even brush their teeth for them.

Grooming

Dogs do not need to be groomed just for the purpose of looking nice; they need to have good upkeep for many other reasons as well. They need to have a regular bath to stay clean, as well as a nail trim if they let you. Often, dogs can get their fur matted if they are not groomed regularly; this can cause discomfort or even pain if you try to remove it; try to brush your dog as much as possible, and most dogs should be groomed every 6 weeks.

Finding a healthy diet for your dog

So if you’re struggling to find a healthy diet for your dog, you should shop for a food intolerance test. It can make a huge difference to your life as well as your pets. The walks will last longer, they will be willing to eat, and most importantly, they will want cuddles!

Shop now for your intolerance test for pets!

Managing your Pet’s Intolerance to Pet Food – A List

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Introducing a new pet food to your furry friend can sometimes lead to intolerance or adverse reactions. If you suspect that your pet has an intolerance to their current pet food, there are several steps you can take to address the issue. The most obvious one is ordering an intolerance test for pets, but it is what you do after that is most important. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do. We’ve put this article in list format so it’s easy for you to read. You can also tick it off as you go. Look out for warning signs, and let us know in the comments if you’ve used any of these tips.

Recognise Intolerance symptoms in your pet

    • Pay attention to any changes in your pet’s behaviour, such as excessive scratching, vomiting, diarrhoea, or skin irritations.
    • Monitor your pet’s stool consistency, as loose or abnormal stools indicate intolerance.
    • Observe if there are any changes in their energy levels, appetite, or overall well-being.

Consult a Veterinarian

    • It’s essential to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your pet is intolerant to its current food.
    • Schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and provide details about the symptoms your pet is experiencing.
    • The veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination and may recommend further diagnostic tests to rule out other potential causes.

Identify the Problem Ingredient

    • Work closely with your veterinarian to identify the specific ingredient causing the intolerance.
    • It may involve performing an elimination diet, where specific ingredients are gradually removed from your pet’s diet to pinpoint the trigger.
    • Sometimes, your veterinarian might suggest allergy testing to identify the specific allergen or intolerance-causing ingredient.

Switch to an Appropriate Pet Food

    • Once the problem ingredient is identified, you must find a pet food that avoids the intolerant element.
    • Look for specialised pet foods labelled hypoallergenic, limited ingredient diet (LID), or novel protein sources.
    • These pet foods are formulated to minimise the risk of triggering intolerance reactions.
    • Ensure the new food meets your pet’s nutritional requirements and is approved by your veterinarian.

Transition Gradually

    • When switching to a new pet food, it’s crucial to introduce it gradually to prevent digestive upset.
    • Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old food, gradually increasing the ratio over several days.
    • This slow transition allows your pet’s digestive system to adjust to the new food without causing gastrointestinal issues.

Monitor and Assess

    • Keep a close eye on your pet after switching their food to monitor for any changes or improvements in their condition.
    • Note any ongoing symptoms or if new issues arise, as it may require further adjustments to their diet.
    • Regularly communicate with your veterinarian to provide updates and seek guidance if necessary.

Shop now for your intolerance test for pets

Remember, every pet is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Consulting with a veterinarian will ensure the best course of action tailored to your pet’s needs. If you haven’t tried an intolerance test for pets, this is also something you could try and then consult with a vet. Shop for your intolerance test for your pets today.

Top tips for a happy, healthy dog this summer

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Most of us look forward to summer. Lighter evenings, more time outside, BBQs and, if lucky, the chance to chill out a bit. But while we’re making the most of the longer days, it’s important to remember our pets need a bit of extra TLC to keep them safe and happy. In this blog, we discuss some of the things you can do to keep your pet healthy in the summer so you can both make the most of it and avoid unnecessary trips to the vet.

Don’t cut their fur too short

As much as it’s tempting to ask your dog groomer to cut your pet’s hair as short as possible when the weather warms up, there are benefits to keeping their coats slightly longer. Dogs have multiple layers of fur for a reason: to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. Without their coats during summer, your pet will be at a higher risk of sunburn, overheating and skin cancer. Fur also helps to keep the surface of their skin cooler, so getting shaved won’t do them any favours.

By all means, keep your dog’s routine appointment with the dog groomer, but there’s no need to ask them to go mad with the clippers. Often, the length of their cut will depend on their breed, so if you’re unsure, ask your groomer what they’d recommend for your dog or speak to your vet for advice.

Keep bowls of water around the house and garden

Making sure water is available at all times is the best way to keep your pet hydrated and will help them to replenish moisture lost through panting on a hot day. Keeping plenty of water bowls around the house and garden is much better than just having one available in the kitchen, while a water fountain is a brilliant way to keep them cool and provide mental stimulation.

Plan ahead to keep your pet healthy

It’s also important to take water and a drinking bowl out with you on your walks so your dog can keep their fluid levels up while they’re getting their steps in. Just don’t be tempted to cool your pet off with an ice cream, because rich puddings can play havoc with dog’s digestive systems, particularly if they have a food intolerance.

Be on your guard during BBQs and picnics

One of the best things about summer is eating outside and it’s something our dogs love to join in with. However, we need to be on our guard because eating al fresco can pose serious threats to our pets if we don’t pay attention. If you’re a fan of lighting up the BBQ, it’s worth remembering that the meat can have sharp bones that could cause your dog to choke if they swallow them. Meats are also a common food intolerance, even for humans.

Keep your pet healthy through avoidance of human tastes and foods

Even the sauces that are often served with BBQ food commonly contain garlic, onion and spices, which are red flags when it comes to a dog’s diet. To keep your pooch safe at meal times, make sure that all party members understand that scraps are not to be fed to your dog. Leftovers also need to be disposed of and kept away from inquisitive noses! 

Keep walks calm and during the coolest parts of the day

As much as dogs need exercise to stay healthy, it’s not safe to walk them in temperatures over 19◦C because of an increased risk of heat stroke. This is particularly dangerous for flat-faced breeds or dogs with underlying health conditions. If it’s cool enough, walking them before 8 am and after 8 pm makes exercise safer, especially if you stick to grassy and shaded areas.

Moderation to keep your pet healthy

Although it can be difficult, try to avoid getting your dog overexcited when it’s hot and keep them as calm as possible. Steady walks are fine, but games that require a lot of exertion should be avoided. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can’t get out and about on sunny days, but keeping your dog healthy in summer means putting their needs first, and caution must be taken when it’s warmer outside.

Contact us for information about intolerance tests for your pet

If you have any questions about how a food intolerance test can improve your dog’s health this summer, please send a message through the contact form on our website or send an email to [email protected]. It’s important to remember that if you have a concern about your pet’s health or diet, it’s best to speak to your vet for medical advice.

Can dogs eat chocolate?

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If you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s a good idea to research the human foods they need to avoid. While most people are aware that dogs and chocolate don’t mix, not as many understand why it’s so dangerous. In this blog, we look at what happens if dogs eat chocolate, what to do if your dog helps themself to a bar, and answer the question of whether dogs can eat any chocolate at all. The straight answer is no, but when it comes to other foods like chocolate, it is not always a straightforward no. Have a look at food intolerance testing for dogs if you think your dog might struggle with the majority of foods, not just chocolate.

Why is chocolate so poisonous to dogs?

As much as chocolate is delicious, it contains theobromine, a caffeine-like molecule that increases blood to the brain. Because dogs are unable to break down this ingredient, eating chocolate has the potential to cause damage to their heart, kidneys, and central nervous system. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include diarrhoea, hyperactivity, vomiting, seizures, rapid breathing and heart problems, usually occurring between four and 24 hours after consumption. The severity of the symptoms will depend on several factors, such as the breed of dog, the type of chocolate they’ve eaten and how much they’ve digested. However, in severe cases, chocolate poisoning can result in death, so it’s essential to be on your guard, even if your dog has only eaten a very small amount.

Is all chocolate poisonous to dogs?

Dark chocolate is the most dangerous type for your dog to eat because it contains the highest levels of cocoa and theobromine. Therefore, the onset of symptoms they experience will be the most severe and likely to cause the most internal damage. While milk chocolate contains a lower percentage of theobromine, it still has the potential to make your dog very unwell if they eat it, mainly if they consume a significant amount in relation to their body weight. White chocolate is considered the least harmful because it contains a very low level of theobromine, so the toxic effects are less of a threat. However, its high fat and sugar content means it’s still a treat that your dog should avoid, as it can lead to other severe conditions like pancreatitis.

What should I do if my dog eats chocolate?

If your dog has eaten chocolate, it’s always best to contact your vet for advice. Before you speak to them, make a note of your dog’s weight, the amount of chocolate they ate and what type it was. This will help your vet calculate whether your dog has eaten an amount that is toxic to them and what treatment will be best. For example, if a Labrador has eaten 200g of milk chocolate, they’re likely to have an upset stomach and feel very unwell. If a smaller dog, such as a Yorkshire Terrier, consumes the same amount, their symptoms are likely to be more severe and require urgent treatment.

Always speak to someone, even if you have tried food intolerance testing for dogs

Even if you think the amount of chocolate your dog has consumed is minimal, it’s best to speak to a vet who will advise you on the right course of action. Chocolate poisoning can cause serious health issues and distress for your dog if left untreated, so it’s best to be on your guard even if you think they’ve only eaten a small amount.

More information on food intolerance testing for dogs

For more information about food intolerance testing and how it can improve the wellbeing of your dog, please send an email to [email protected] or fill out the contact form on our website. Our advice should never replace that of a veterinary professional, so please speak to your local practice if you are concerned about your pet’s health.

5 reasons why a food intolerance test could improve your dog’s health

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If you’re a vigilant dog owner, taking care of your pet’s health will be second nature. They’ll be walked, groomed, eat well, and have regular vet checks. But even with such an attentive approach, it’s only natural to wonder if there’s anything else you could do to help your pet, mainly if their medical history is complex. Because dogs can develop sensitivities at any time, it’s entirely possible that they could have an intolerance to pet foods they’d previously enjoyed. Although intolerance symptoms such as an upset stomach can be triggered for several reasons, it’s good to be on your guard as a pet owner. Here we’ve listed 5 reasons why ordering a food intolerance test for pets could improve their well-being and form part of their health MOT.

Any dog can have a food intolerance

Some dog breeds are more likely to suffer from certain medical conditions because of their genetic makeup. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, for example, commonly suffer from heart conditions, whereas pugs typically have problems with their eyes. But when it comes to food intolerance, there are no hard and fast rules about the type of dog that suffers from them. In fact, any breed can be intolerant to their food, even when it’s something they’ve eaten before. Paying close attention to any sensitivities that could make them feel unwell gives your dog the best chance of a healthy and happy life.

Food intolerance test for pets is easy and pain-free

Unlike many procedures that help review your dog’s health, food intolerance tests are non-invasive and won’t cause any discomfort. Taking a fur sample of 4 to 5 strands is enough to send off to our lab so that we can determine how your dog’s cells are functioning and what factors are making them unwell. The results will be emailed to you within 5 to 7 days, so you won’t have to wait long to find out if there are any intolerances that are affecting your dog’s well-being. If your dog continues to eat the food it’s intolerant to, it could continue to display symptoms such as an upset stomach until its diet changes, so taking an intolerance test could save them from unnecessary discomfort.

Testing packages to suit pets

We offer two food intolerance packages so you can choose the best option to suit your budget and requirements. Our Standard Test will assess your dog’s sensitives against a list of 60 recognised food and non-food items, while our Premium Test will focus on 200 items, plus an extra item of your choice. You can also choose to have a personalised consultation to discuss your pet’s intolerance test results and ask any questions you have about their dietary needs. Our tests come with free delivery and include a registered donation to Battersea so you can help other animals while ensuring the best care for your own.

A quicker road to Recovery for your pet

If your dog’s food intolerance test highlights any sensitivities, it’s a valuable stepping-stone to improving its health. By informing your vet of the test results, they’ll be able to advise you on any dietary changes that need to be implemented to make sure your dog is healthier, happier and with a better quality of life. Ordering a food intolerance test means you have a head start in helping your dog onto the road to recovery and can cut out the need for unnecessary tests that are both costly and unpleasant.

Stops unnecessary discomfort

No one wants their pet to feel poorly unnecessarily, so testing them for a food intolerance could save them from a lot of discomfort. Because a dog’s sensitivity to its diet can vary substantially, it’s important to be aware of warning signs, which include digestive problems such as diarrhoea, excessive sneezing, skin disorders and lethargy. While these symptoms might not be associated with their diet or surroundings, it’s good to rule it out so that vets can investigate the matter further. Another point to bear in mind is that persistently feeding the wrong food to an intolerant dog can cause long-term issues, so it’s best to review their diet as soon as the symptoms arise.

Order food intolerance test for pets

If you have any queries about ordering a food intolerance test for pets, you can email [email protected], and we’ll reply within one hour during the working day. You can also send us a message on our contact form, and we’ll answer any questions that you have.