Why Feed Natural?

 

 

It is estimated that approximately 65% of dogs aged over 3 years suffer from some degree of periodontal disease, making it the most common disease to affect dogs (Hiscox and Bellows, 2021). This is caused by tartar forming, following a build up of plaque. Chewing on firm treats can help to prevent this by aiding in the removal of plaque before mineralisation occurs.

Check out our blog about how Natural Dog Treats Promote Dental Health in our Dogs

 

Many owners wish to move away from the use of routine chemical worm treatments for their dogs in favour of more natural alternatives. Animal fur provides fibre that is poorly digested in the stomach, so as it travels through the intestines, it gently brushes the inner lining, aiding in physical worm and egg removal.

Check out our blog about The Surprising Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Treats with Fur Intact!

 

Digestibility describes the relative amount of nutrients within a food that are available to the dog after breakdown and absorption (Watson, 2011). Largely determined by the ingredients, as well as processing and amount fed, digestibility is highest for organ, muscle and offal meats. These products are suitable for young and older dogs as well as those new to eating natural treats.

Check out our blog: Say Goodbye to Upset Stomachs: The Benefits of Natural and Single Protein Dog Treats

 

The 22 amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for the healthy functioning of cells in every part of the body. 10 of these are essential so can only be obtained through feeding a balanced diet. Although they can digest plant proteins, meat, including natural chews, is the best source for dogs due to it’s high bioavailability (Scott, 2021). Our high protein dog treats range all contain over 40% protein.

Check out our blog: Healthy and Happy: The Benefits of Natural, High Protein Dog Treats

 

Hypoallergenic means low-allergy-causing and can be used to describe any food that doesn't contain any ingredients that are commonly linked to allergies. Whilst there is no single set of agreed ingredients to avoid within the dog food industry, our products that are free from wheat, maize, dairy, soya and chicken are awarded our Hypoallergenic badge.

Check out our blog: Discover the Benefits of Natural Hypoallergenic Dog Treats

 

At least 1 in 5 dogs in the UK are affected by osteoarthritis, and its prevalence increases as dogs age (Identifying Signs of Arthritis - Canine Arthritis Management, 2021). Whilst incurable, many dogs go on to live comfortable lives with correct treatment. A variety of compounds have been found to assist in symptom management, including Omega-3 (Moreau et al., 2012), Glucosamine and Chondroitin (Gupta et al., 2011), and Turmeric. This Joint Care badge is for treats providing these compounds.

 

Omega-3 is a group of essential fatty acids, widely renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. These have been shown to improve gut health (Ephraim, I Jackson, Yerramilli and E Jewell, 2020), improve symptoms associated with osteoarthritis (Moreau et al., 2012) and reduce risk factors for brain aging in elderly dogs (Pan, Kennedy, Jönsson and Milgram, 2018). The most practical way to provide these is to feed products containing a source of oily fish.

Check out our blog: Discover the Benefits of Natural Hypoallergenic Dog Treats

 

A dog's skin (and by extension, their coat) is its largest organ, accounting for about 12% of their body weight. It is made up of around 95% protein, and accounts they use 35% of their daily protein intake on maintenance and growth (Dog Food For Healthy Skin and Coat | Eukanuba, 2021). Treats high in protein, as well as beneficial omega 3, will benefit the skin and coat.