Is Your Dog Getting Enough Fiber?

Digestive health is an important factor in maintaining bodily func-tions. If your dog is not getting enough quality fiber in his diet, he may experience irregular bowel movements or loose stool. Fiber also helps regulate canine diabetes, aids in weight loss and reduces the occurrence of anal gland disease. Adding roughage to your dog's diet is a fast and easy option.

Choose a Quality Dog Food
Many premium quality dog foods provide sufficient fibrous material to promote colon health, but others use less beneficial ingredients more for filler than fiber. The best way to know whether your dog's food provides the type and amount of roughage he needs is to read the label. Canned varieties are typically low in fiber due to the high moisture content, so your main focus is on kibble ingredients.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin's fibrous composition makes it a popular choice for adding roughage to your dog's diet. It's highly palatable in the canned, unsweetened puree form, easy to dispense and stores well for several days in the refrigerator. Another benefit of pumpkin is its ability to maintain blood glucose levels, which is particularly beneficial for diabetic dogs. The suggested amount is one spoonful mixed in with each meal, as more than that may cause diarrhea.

Carrots & Apples
Treat time can be both low-calorie and high in fiber. Offer your dog a cubed apple (without seeds) and/or whole carrot; if he's like most, he'll trot his tasty treasure into the other room and devour it with enthusiasm.

Bran
Rice, wheat or oat bran can be used for dogs who don't suffer from grain allergies. All three are readily available in grocery and health food stores, prepackaged and easily added to the bowl. A small sprinkle over the food is all that's needed to provide additional roughage at each meal.

Powder and Pill Supplements

The ease factor of store-bought supplements is good for finicky dogs or times when fibrous foods are not convenient. Grocery stores, health food markets and pet supply retailers offer powder and capsule formulas, as well as chewable fiber tablets that can stand in as treats. Capsules can be hidden in a piece of cheese or other favorite treat, or easily pulled apart to sprinkle directly on the food.

Originally written for and published by eHow