Why Feed Your Dog Highly & Easily Digestible Food

As a responsible pet parent, you want to ensure your dog is getting the best nutrition possible. Just like us, dogs need high-quality food that’s nutritious and easy to digest. 

Highly digestible food is essential for your dog's overall health, especially for those with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities. The easier a food is for your dog to digest, the more nutrients they can absorb, leading to improved energy, a healthier coat, and a happier, more active dog.

At A Pup Above, we understand that every dog’s digestive system is unique. That’s why we focus on providing meals that are made with only the finest ingredients, which are nutritious and easy on your dog’s stomach. 

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of feeding your dog easily digestible food and how it contributes to their overall health and well-being.

What Makes Food Digestible for Dogs? 

Digestibility refers to how well your dog’s digestive system can break down and absorb the nutrients from the food they eat. 

The key factors that determine digestibility include the quality of ingredients, the method of cooking, and the presence of certain additives that can either enhance or hinder the digestive process. For example, whole protein sources like chicken or beef are much easier for your dog to digest than by-products or mystery meat.

Cooking methods also play a crucial role in digestibility. Gently cooked food, such as that used in A Pup Above’s Human Grade Fresh Dog Food, preserves the nutrients while making it easier for your dog’s digestive system to break down. On the other hand, overly processed foods can be harder for dogs to digest, leading to less efficient nutrient absorption.

Another factor to consider is the presence of fiber, which aids digestion by supporting gut health and ensuring smooth bowel movements. The use of natural, fiber-rich ingredients like pumpkin or sweet potatoes can make a big difference in how easily food is digested. 

Highly digestible food is especially important for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with health issues because it ensures they get the maximum benefit from every meal with less strain on their digestive systems.

What Are the Benefits of Highly Digestible Food for Dogs?

Better Nutrient Absorption

One of the primary benefits of feeding your dog highly digestible food is improved nutrient absorption. When a dog’s food is easy to break down, their body can absorb more of the essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and protein, that are crucial for overall health. 

This means your dog gets more out of every meal, helping them maintain better energy levels and healthier bodily functions.

Supports Digestive Health

Highly digestible food is gentle on your dog’s digestive system, which can help reduce common issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or is prone to digestive distress, feeding them easily digestible food can ease discomfort and promote better gut health. Regular consumption of high-quality food will support balanced digestion over time.

Improved Coat and Skin Health

A dog’s skin and coat often reflect the quality of their diet. Highly digestible food helps promote healthy skin and a shiny coat because it supports optimal nutrient absorption. When a dog’s digestive system is working efficiently, essential fatty acids and nutrients are properly absorbed, which can improve coat quality and reduce skin irritation or dryness.

Helps Maintain a Healthy Weight

Dogs that consume highly digestible food may also experience more consistent weight management. With better absorption of nutrients, dogs are less likely to overeat or seek out additional snacks to compensate for nutrient deficiencies. This can contribute to maintaining a healthy weight, which is essential for overall well-being and longevity.

What Ingredients Should You Look for in Digestible Dog Food?

When choosing food that is easy to digest for your dog, it’s important to focus on high-quality, natural ingredients. This section will provide you with a few to keep an eye on when you’re shopping for new dog food.

Lean Proteins

Proteins are essential for muscle health and overall development, but some protein sources can be harder to digest than others. Look for lean protein options like chicken, turkey, or fish. These meats are often easier for dogs to break down and digest than red meats or by-products. High-quality protein also supports better muscle mass and overall vitality.

Easily Digestible Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide a source of energy, and easily digestible ones like sweet potatoes, peas, and pumpkin are gentle on your dog’s digestive system. These foods are packed with fiber, which can help promote healthy bowel movements while providing valuable nutrients. They also help keep your dog feeling full longer without causing digestive upset.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats, like those found in flaxseed and salmon oil, are key to maintaining a shiny coat and supporting your dog’s brain function. Fats also help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, which are essential for your dog’s health. 

Opting for healthy fat sources that are easy to digest will ensure your dog’s body can efficiently absorb nutrients while keeping their energy levels steady.

Avoid Artificial Fillers

It’s also important to avoid foods that contain artificial fillers, such as corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients are harder for dogs to digest and offer little nutritional value. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense ingredients instead to ensure that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition. 

How Does Digestible Food Support Sensitive Stomachs and Allergies?

Dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies can benefit greatly from highly digestible food. When dogs suffer from digestive sensitivities or food allergies, their bodies struggle to properly process certain ingredients. 

This can lead to discomfort and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating. Highly digestible food contains ingredients that are easier for dogs to break down, which reduces the strain on their digestive systems and helps prevent these issues. 

What’s more, many highly digestible dog foods are formulated with hypoallergenic ingredients, which minimize the risk of triggering food allergies. Common allergens like beef, dairy, and grains are often excluded in favor of lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish and easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or peas. This thoughtful formulation helps ensure your dog’s food is not only gentle on their stomach but also free from ingredients that could cause allergic reactions. 

By feeding your dog food that’s easy on their digestive system and free from common allergens, you’re supporting their overall health, promoting a calm stomach, and reducing the likelihood of flare-ups associated with sensitivities or allergies.

How Can You Transition Your Dog To Highly Digestible Food?

When switching your dog to highly digestible food, it's essential to make the transition gradual to avoid upsetting their digestive system. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food, gradually increasing the ratio over seven to 10 days. 

This slow transition helps prevent gastrointestinal issues, such as upset stomachs or diarrhea. Monitor your dog during the switch to ensure they are adjusting well, and consult your vet if you notice any concerns.

Wrapping Up

Choosing highly digestible food for your dog is an investment in their health and well-being. It supports better nutrient absorption, enhances digestive health, and promotes a shiny coat and healthy weight. 

Also, for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies, highly digestible food can offer a safer, more comfortable dining experience. When you select the right ingredients and focus on quality, you can provide your dog with the nutrition they need to thrive. 

Ultimately, feeding your dog highly digestible food helps ensure they’re living their best, healthiest life.

Sources:

Gut Probiotics and Health of Dogs and Cats: Benefits, Applications, and Underlying Mechanisms | NIH 

Breed Weight Chart | American Kennel Club

Can Pumpkin Help With Dog Diarrhea? | American Kennel Club

Everything You Need to Know About Dog Food Allergies | American Kennel Club