As every pet owner knows what your pet eats helps to keep them healthy, energetic and happy. Most of us stay within the standard commercial provision of what the pet food manufacturers make for us, it is easy to find in the supermarkets. Some of us need to feed our pets particular foods on the instruction of our vets. In fact, the vet may have instructed you to avoid particular foods for your pet. Here is an article that describes the best seven superfoods for pets you might want to consider.

Superfoods for pets – will your pet benefit?

You may be familiar with the term “superfoods” and easily associate it with healthy human foods. The same concept can be applied to our pets and furry friends. Just like we need proper nutrition to maintain healthy body functions and have good overall health, our pets have their own nutritional needs that we need to look after and provide. They need a balanced and healthy diet to supplement their daily activities and to help fuel their playfulness and energetic movements. Moreover even their treats should ideally be grain free pet treats to avoid any issues and to stay healthy. 

As a way of helping pet owners and animal lovers, we’ll share seven tasty superfoods for pets that your furry friend will surely adore.

1. Dog Food

Most of us may think that commercial dog food shouldn’t be considered as a superfood due to its unreliable balance of nutrient content. However, not all dog foods are made in the same way and there are dog foods that are formulated to contain the right levels of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that are suited for various dog types and builds. 

The history of the dog food industry is a long and colorful one, going back as far as 160 years ago. It was in 1850 when James Spratt, a salesman who will go on to be credited as the person who invented dog food, discovered the eager consumption of uneaten ‘ship’s hard tack’ by dogs while aboard a ship docking in Liverpool.

He saw an opportunity for making a profit while also giving basic nutrition to dogs in a compact food formula. He then tried inventing the first ready-made commercial dog food. His invention of dog cakes soon gave way to the development of various incarnations of ready-made dog food. Eventually we at the popular dog food types that we know of today. Scientific studies and discoveries have led to improvements in the formulation of dog food to make it nutritionally balanced and palatably attractive to various dog types and breeds.

2. Fish

While dogs are the domestic cousins of wolves in terms of genetics, their long history of domestication has significantly altered their diets from eating raw meat. Protein is considered as an important part of a dog or cat’s daily nutrient intake, which is why it is important to have good alternatives to other types of meat. Also, certain dog breeds have allergies to many kinds of meats, and fish is considered as a good and healthy alternative. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which gives dogs and cats healthy hair and fur, and strong nails and joints. Fish such as sardines, salmon, cod, and anchovies are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein for your furry friends. Just remember not to overdo feeding them fish so as not to elevate the sodium levels in their bodies.

3. Quinoa

This superfood is not just for humans. It is included in the superfoods for pets in particular dogs and cats. Dogs who have gluten allergy can enjoy this gluten-free grain and reap the benefits of high protein and fiber content. It also contains eight essential amino acids, which help maintain healthy muscle mass, shiny and healthy fur, and well-tone skin. It is also a good food option for dogs suffering from obesity by keeping them feeling full for a longer time and reducing food cravings.

4. Raw Honey

Raw, unprocessed and locally harvested honey is a little-known superfood that owners should know about. We have to emphasize raw and unprocessed honey that you can buy in your local farmer’s market as most commercially produced honey in chain stores no longer have vitamins, enzymes, and health-promoting properties. Honey also promotes allergy resistance in dogs that have allergies due to the presence of local pollen in raw honey. It also has antibacterial properties that can boost your dog’s immune system and help in proper food digestion.

5. Pumpkin

This common vegetable is one of the healthiest superfoods for pets. It works wonders for the canine digestive system. It does this by promoting good digestion and relieving constipation and diarrhoea. Pumpkin is also rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, zinc, potassium, magnesium, and iron. All these boost the immune system and also maintain healthy internal body functions. It also has high fibre content and low-fat content, which aid in weight reduction and proper nutrient absorption for dogs who are overweight or obese. Be sure to buy plain puree if you are planning to purchase a pumpkin for homemade treats and dog food. The puree goes well with dry food and you can estimate the proportion based on your dog’s body size. 

6. Carrots

Carrots are another tasty vegetable in the orange spectrum that is considered as superfoods for both humans and dogs. It is rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that keeps cells and tissues looking young and healthy. The belief is that the high Vitamin A content promotes good eyesight. Meanwhile the carotenoids help promote good heart health and blood circulation for your canine pal. The fibre and Vitamin C content also promotes proper digestion and immune system enhancement to keep them from getting sick easily. 

7. Blueberries

Treat your furry friend to something sweet and healthy like blueberries. This yummy superfood is healthy for humans and dogs alike. Rich in antioxidants, fibre, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and phytochemicals, it helps maintain good overall health for your dog. These sweet treats promote good and healthy digestion, proper nutrient absorption, and efficient waste elimination. The immune system of your furry friends will get a major boost from just a handful of blueberries. 

A final word on superfoods for pets

There are many superfoods that you can incorporate into your dog’s diet. All you need is to discover them and gradually introduce them. We have to emphasize the gradual introduction of new foods. It is important to start with a small proportion to observe the digestive adjustment of your pet. This is also good way to observe any indications of food allergies or adverse reactions to the new food added. We understand that as pet owners, you want the very best for your pets.  Do remember to also look for what’s safe and healthy for them.

Further reading about dogs and dog care

At Housesitmatch.com we always try to share useful and informative blogs and practical advice with our members. Read on to find some helpful articles with useful tips for dog owners and dogsitters about dogsitting.

Top dogsitting tips for beginners

Dogsitters’ tips – Dog’s body language and how to read it

What is a dog sit?

What is a live in dogsitter