With lots of methods available and pros and cons for each, it can be tricky to know which is the best option for your pup.
We’re aiming to make the decision easier for you.
So, we’ve gathered heaps of details about the different ways of feeding a dog together in this article. Keep reading to discover all the info that will help you decide which method is right for you.
Dog Biscuits Or Kibble
Probably the most common method of feeding a dog is dog biscuits or kibble. This method is popular for a reason. High quality dog biscuits are specially formulated for a pup’s specific dietary needs. That means they contain all the ingredients, vitamins and minerals your doggo needs to stay happy and healthy.
But, it is important to remember that not all dog kibbles are created equally. Often, cheaper or mass produced brands will contain additives, fillers and preservatives to bulk them out and keep them fresh on the shelves. These are the things that your pup does NOT need in their diet.
So, when selecting a dog biscuit, make sure you choose one with natural, premium ingredients, and one that is locally produced for freshness. Real Dog Food ticks all those boxes and is a great complete choice for feeding your pup.
Raw Feeding
Raw feeding is another readily used feeding option. It involves feeding your dog raw meat and bones, and even fruits and vegetables. In recent years, this has become an increasingly popular form of feeding. However, there are some concerns involved with a raw food diet.
Ancestrally, dogs have always hunted and consumed a lot of meat. This has contributed to the belief that raw meat is the ideal diet for dogs. Modern raw feeding often consists of nicely portioned out meals of meat and offal. But, those portions are missing key ingredients, contributing to deficiencies in your dog’s diet. Calcium is usually the main ingredient lacking, which can lead to bone weakness and deformities in your pup.
Many commercial raw meat pet foods can also contain harmful bacteria. So, it is important to be aware of these things before choosing raw food as your feeding path. You may need to include supplements in your dog’s diet if you choose this feeding option.
Home Made Dog Food
Fancy yourself as a bit of a dab hand in the kitchen? Then, you may be interested in creating your own dog food. Homemade meals do have the advantage of offering you control over the ingredients that are included and your dog will always have fresh meals.
However, you need to ensure that the meals you are providing will meet your dog’s individual dietary needs. There are a lot of nutrients that keep a pup healthy, so you’ll have to include them in the meals you prepare.
It’s also essential to be aware of ingredients that can be toxic to dogs. That way, you can avoid accidentally including them in your dog’s meals.
Combination Feeding
Not sold on a complete diet or biscuits or a completely raw food plan? Then, combination feeding could be a solution. This involves feeding your dog a combination of biscuits, meat or homemade concoctions.
This kind of feeding can make portion control a challenge and you will still need to ensure all of their nutritional bases are being covered. But this does add an element of variety for pups who get bored of one food easily.
Scheduled Feeding
Going beyond the types of foods you feed your pup, you also need to consider what structure you will give your puppo when it comes to eating. Scheduled feeding involves feeding your dog at specific times of the day.
Feeding at a set time helps to regulate your dog’s eating habits, aids in their portion control and can be a beneficial training aid.
Free Feeding
At the other end of the spectrum to scheduled feeding is free feeding. This involves leaving food out for your dog to graze on throughout the day. The validity of this feeding method will depend on the diet you are choosing, as obviously, it is not ideal to leave raw meat out on a summer’s day!
Free feeding will mean that your dog can take a nibble whenever they feel hungry, however, some dogs may end up overeating. If you choose this method, you will need to keep an eye on your dog’s weight and overall health to ensure they are only eating what they need.
What Is The Best Diet For My Dog?
The best diet for your dog is one that meets all of its nutritional needs. That’s why so many people choose to feed a high quality, complete dog kibble as it is the simplest solution to keep your dog happy and healthy with the right blend of goodness.
And if you are looking for the ultimate dog food, you can’t go past Real Dog Food. Formulated by pet nutritionists and veterinary specialists, it is a food made from human-grade premium ingredients like grass fed beef, chicken, fish, brown rice and corn.
With everything your dog needs to stay full and healthy, Real Dog Food is a favourite choice of many New Zealand dog owners. With options for all dogs, including grain-free and allergy-friendly blends, we are sure you’ll find something your pup loves, or we’ll give you your money back!
Browse our range of dog food now.
]]>Though, now that you mention it, that question could make a great opener… what can your dog’s nose tell you about the middle of their face?
That it’s the scenter! Hahahaha
Right, all jokes aside, your dog's nose can tell you a bit about how your pup might be feeling and if there is anything wrong.
Read on to find out all about the secrets your dog’s nose holds.
Somewhere along the way, it became common knowledge that the state of your dog’s nose is an indicator of their health. That’s not 100% true though. The state of your dog’s nose can be impacted by the temperature and humidity levels in the air, their exposure to the sun, whether they have exercised recently, or how often they lick their nose.
But, that glorious sniffer can still give you some clues about how your dog is doing. Combine those clues with general observations and knowledge about what your dog has been up to, and it can be a really good indicator of what is going on with your doggo.
Your dog’s nose is a fascinating construct. Here are some cool facts about their humble schnoz!
Popular opinion states that if your dog’s nose is dry, they are unwell. But, that is a myth. Actually, the natural state of your pup’s sniffer is dryness. They are generally wet due to the dog licking the nose (or burying it too far in a bowl of water!).
So, why do puppos lick their nose so often?
Well, dogs are unable to sweat with their whole body. They only have the ability to sweat through their paw pads, which is a very small portion of their body! Instead, they use panting and licking their nose to regulate their body temperature.
When the saliva evaporates from their nose and mouth, it helps them to cool down. So, if your dog’s nose is cold, it means the process is working! Conversely, if it is overly warm, it’s probably time to find them some shade and a drink of water.
Because dogs can’t sweat like we humans do, they can be more sensitive to hot weather, especially if their coat is a darker colour. You may find they lick their nose more often when the weather is warm.
So, in answer to the question of whether your dog’s nose should be wet or dry, the answer is both! Depending on the situation of course.
As we mentioned in our fun facts section, a wet nose amplifies your dog’s ability to smell. And as smell is their most powerful sense, nose moisture is a key ingredient!
Licking their nose has a dual purpose when it comes to smelling. The first is that the licking moistens the surface of their nose and helps scent particles stick to it better. While they do have mucus glands in their nostrils specifically designed for this purpose, licking also plays a big role.
The second purpose is that when your doggo licks their nose, it transfers the scent particles to the roof of their mouth. From there, they are detected by the vomeronasal organ. This is a sensory organ that helps your pup detect pheromones and lets them gain valuable information about other living things.
So, a wet nose is not necessarily a bad sign. It can simply indicate your dog’s sensory systems are operating well. If your dog’s nose is dripping or full of mucus, that is a different story. That is a sign that they are not well and may need to see a vet.
So, if a wet nose is not a bad thing, is a dry nose? A dry nose alone is not cause for concern. For some breeds, often those with shorter snouts, it is quite common to have dry noses.
And for the rest, a dry nose is not unusual either. They will often wake up from a nap with a dry nose because much of the moisture is because of licking, which they can’t do while sleeping. Sun exposure or warm, windy weather can also cause a dry nose.
In some cases, a dry nose is a sign of dehydration. Especially if the nose skin appears dry and flakey. So, if you notice your pup has a dry nose, ensure they have access to water. Monitor their demeanour too, as they don’t always perform the usual behaviours like nose licking if they are feeling unwell.
The most common appearance of a dog’s nose is damp and cool to the touch. But, that might not necessarily be the normal for your pup. Some dog breeds can have noses that are dryer or warmer than others, so recognise the common state for your dog and monitor if that changes.
For example, if your pup’s nose is usually cool and damp, but suddenly becomes warm and dry, then you need to check things out further. Likewise, if their nose is usually warm and dry, but becomes wet and runny, then it could indicate an issue.
Your dog’s nose can tell you a lot of things, and any of these symptoms are cause for concern. Be on the lookout for:
To wrap it all up, judging your pup’s health solely on the appearance of their nose is not wise. Warm noses don’t necessarily indicate sickness and cold, wet ones don’t always show good health. It’s about looking at your pup’s nose in conjunction with their other behaviours.
Pets can be good at hiding their illnesses when they first start, so make sure you are aware of what your dog’s normal is so you can distinguish if anything falls outside that.
Also, do what you can to keep them in good health. Part of that is feeding them a premium food that meets all of their dietary needs. Real Dog Food is the all-natural option that ticks all the pet nutritionist boxes. Shop for yours now.
]]>So, does your older dog actually need a special diet in their later years?
As your furry friend ages, you obviously want to make sure they have the nutrition required to live a happy and healthy life.
But, are those nutritional needs different to a younger dog?
Let’s explore the answers to all of these questions now.
We’ll give it to you straight… just because your dog is moving into their later years, it doesn’t mean you need to feed them a specific ‘senior blend’ of food.
But, there are some things you need to be mindful of with their diet to ensure they remain happy and healthy. They are:
Weight Gain
Just like humans, a doggo’s metabolism can start to slow as they age. They may also become less active in their later years. So, it’s important to be mindful of their calorie intake to prevent any unnecessary weight gain and related health issues.
To do this, make sure you stick to the recommended daily food intake for your dog’s size. For Real Dog Food kibble, it is recommended to feed 100g (1 cup) per 10kg of body weight.
Tummy Issues
As your pup gets older, they may start to develop digestive issues like a sensitive stomach or a reduced ability to absorb nutrients. There will be definite signs if your dog is experiencing digestive problems. Stuff could be coming out either end when it isn't meant to, or they could be bloated or uncomfortable.
You can make sure they are still getting everything they need to be healthy by choosing dog food that is easily digestible and contains high-quality nutritional ingredients. You can also select an allergy-friendly blend or a grain-free option if you find certain ingredients trigger your pet.
Joint Health
Many senior dogs can experience joint issues like arthritis or decreased mobility. If this is the case for your pup, you’ll notice they might move slower, have obvious stiffness when trying to move, or have pain when getting up.
Even though they might be moving slower, it’s really important to keep them moving with short, easy walks and to feed them food that is rich in nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Or, even give a Joint Supplement as a treat to support good joint health and reduce any discomfort.
Switching your older dog to a senior food blend is not necessary. And there may even be a couple of dietary concerns involved.
Senior blends tend to have lower calorie content to combat the fact that your dog may become less active in their later years. The thing is though, your dog may not necessarily slow down that much. And some pups even have a greater chance of losing weight in their golden years. So, a lower calorie count isn’t necessarily a good thing.
Senior blends also tend to have reduced dietary protein. This can be dangerous for your puppo as less protein can have the negative effect of contributing to muscle loss. That’s why we recommend sticking to a balanced diet for your pup, regardless of their age.
While you don’t need to choose a senior specific blend for your doggo, it is important that you still take note of key nutritional considerations.
This is what your senior dog will need:
Balanced Nutrition
All dogs need a dog food that contains balanced nutrition - a blend of all the vitamins, probiotics, proteins, minerals and goodness their bodies need to function well. But, this is especially important for older dogs to maintain good health.
A good balanced diet includes protein, healthy fats, fibre, glucosamine, chondroitin, and antioxidants. Real Dog Food’s Balanced blend is the perfect choice as it ticks all the nutritional boxes being that it was formulated by pet nutrition experts.
Protein
Protein is a vital component for maintaining muscle mass and overall good health. Choosing a premium food that includes plenty of lean protein will help keep your older dog full and nourished.
Here at Real Dog Food, we choose human grade proteins that we would be happy to eat ourselves. Grass fed NZ beef and NZ wild fish are our go-to's as they are easily digestible and have great nutritional value. The rest of our ingredients are also 100% natural, so you don’t have to worry about your pup consuming any nasties!
Healthy Fats
Essential fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6 help to promote a healthy coat, healthy skin and good cognitive function. They come from sources like fish, fish oil and flaxseed, which can all be found in our Real Dog Food blends.
Your dog deserves the best, especially when they have been a loved member of the family for many years already. So, choose a food that is not only nutritious but is also delicious.
We regularly have reports of dogs drooling as their Real Dog Food is being dished up or of helpful pups reminding their owners when it is time for their Real Dog Food meal. And your pup could join this happy bunch.
Our Balanced, Allergy and Grain Free blends are all great options depending on the dietary needs of your older dog. And if they need a bit of a nutritional boost to keep them mobile, you can top them up with our Joint Formula Treats. Shop for Real Dog Food now.
]]>You might not expect it, but there are many plants out there that can be harmful to your pup. The toxicity can range from mild irritation to severe symptoms, depending on which plant they come into contact with and whether they ingest it or not.
Unfortunately, these toxic plants can be quite common and are often found in a lot of Kiwi gardens, parks and outdoor spaces. So, it’s essential that you educate yourself on which plants are potentially toxic to your up.
One of the most dangerous varieties would have to be the berries from the Karaka tree. From January to April, these berries will ripen, turn orange and fall from the Karaka tree. If consumed by your dog, they can be fatal.
So, it’s best to avoid areas where these trees grow while walking your dog in summer. Luckily, the trees are quite distinctive in appearance, making them easy to spot. They have thick dark leaves and bright orange berries, and can grow up to 15m tall.
Here are some images that can help you identify them on your walks here.
While the Karaka tree is one of the most dangerous plant varieties for our furry friends, it is not the only one. According to the SPCA, these plants can also be risky:
The plants listed above can range in toxicity level for your doggo. They can cause a range of health issues if they come in contact with your dog's skin or if they are ingested. The severity of the symptoms will vary based on the plant, the amount of exposure, the size of your pup and their individual sensitivities.
These are some of the potential effects that these toxic plants can have on your doggo:
Upset Tummy: Lots of plants toxic to dogs can lead to tummy upsets like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea. These symptoms can be mild and pass quickly, or more severe and require vet care. It all depends on the plant.
Skin Irritation: Contact with certain plants can leave your doggo with irritated skin like a rash, itchiness or even an allergic reaction. Not only are these skin irritations uncomfortable, but they can build in severity, so may require medical attention.
Breathing Problems: Inhaling or ingesting certain plant materials can lead to respiratory problems. That can include difficulty breathing or irritation in the throat and lungs.
Severe Health Issues: Certain plants even have the ability to cause neurological issues like tremors, seizures, or disorientation. Some can even attack vital organs like the heart, resulting in an irregular heartbeat, weakness or even heart failure.
Organ Damage: Some plants contain toxins that impact specific organs in your pup’s body. The common ones are the kidneys, liver or heart. Sometimes, ingesting these kinds of toxic plants can lead to organ damage in the short or long term. It can even lead to organ failure if not treated properly.
To protect your pup’s health, it is important to keep them away from the plants toxic to dogs that we listed above. Carefully check your garden and the areas where your dog spends the most time. Then, be mindful when you are out walking or adventuring with your pup.
By doing these simple checks, you should be able to significantly reduce the risk to your dog. Unfortunately, you can’t completely eliminate the risk, so you should educate yourself on the potential symptoms so you can identify if your dog has come in contact with one of these plants unexpectedly.
Common signs can be:
Not all dogs will have the same reaction to a toxic plant. Some may be lucky to escape with mild symptoms, while others can suffer from severe consequences. Coming into contact with plants toxic to dogs can be fatal, so it’s vital to be vigilant.
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant or is showing any concerning symptoms after being in contact with plants, seek immediate veterinary care. Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome and prevent further complications.
Dogs need a healthy immune system to prevent them from getting sick, regardless of what their environment contains. One of the major contributors to good health is good nutrition. So choose a balanced food that contains all the goodness they need to be happy and healthy.
Real Dog Food is the ideal choice. Formulated by pet nutritionists, our kibble is the ultimate balanced, natural and affordable dog food for your furry pals.
]]>Cheeky little Fido has just snuck in and cleaned out all the contents of the cat’s bowl! What now?
Well, if this is a one-off occurrence, there isn’t too much to worry about. However, if it becomes a habit for your dog, then it could cause issues. Dogs and cats have different dietary needs, so it stands to reason that their foods are formulated differently.
Cat food tends to be higher in fat and protein than dog food. Which is probably why it is so tempting for your pup to eat. But, if your dog consumes the cat’s tucker regularly, it could lead to:
Upset Tummy
Because cat food tends to have that higher fat content, your doggo could experience gastrointestinal upset from consuming it. This could result in diarrhea, vomiting or an unsettled stomach.
Translation: you might find your dog has an upset tummy and lets off more stinky toots than usual or has the food returning out of either end.
Weight Gain
As we have just indicated, cat food is quite calorie-dense. So, if your dog is snacking on it regularly, they might start to gain weight. This is particularly noticeable if they are having cat food snacks in addition to their own dog food meals.
Nutritional Imbalance
If your dog continues to chow down on the cat’s food on a regular basis, they may start to develop a nutritional imbalance. As dogs have different nutritional requirements to cats, cat food won’t provide the balanced nutrition they need. This can lead to a nutritional imbalance which may trigger health issues or concerns.
Health Issues
Prolonged consumption of cat food may lead to long term health issues in dogs. This could include obesity, pancreatitis, kidney issues, or other metabolic disorders. In short, consuming too much cat food on a regular basis can leave your pup feeling pretty unwell.
In order to be happy and healthy, dogs need a balanced food full of all the things their bodies need to function optimally. Proper nutrition is the foundation of good physical and mental health for your doggo. A well-balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for growth, maintenance, and repair of tissues and organs. This includes essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
Eating all those good things will ensure your pup remains a healthy weight and has the energy it needs to tackle the day’s activities. They’ll also have a shiny coat and healthy skin, along with good oral and digestive health.
Good nutrition is known to extend your dog’s lifespan and give them a better quality of life. It minimises the risk of illness and infections as it equips your dog with a strong immune system.
So, as you can see, your doggo can benefit significantly from having the right balance of nutrients in their diet.
In order to give your dog the right balance of nutrients, you need to find the right food. Many supermarket and vet brands contain a list of foreign and confusing ingredients. A lot of those ingredients are actually fillers and contain artificial or chemical substances.
Choosing a natural, New Zealand made brand is a much better choice. Real Dog Food fits the bill! Made right here in Aotearoa from natural, human grade ingredients, our food contains all the goodness your dog could need without needing to raid the cat’s bowl!
Lovingly blended, our dog food has been formulated by expert pet nutritionists and is packed with the correct combination of probiotics, vitamins, minerals, proteins and goodness. It is an enriching and complete diet for your pup.
Back to the question at hand. Should I panic if my dog ate cat food?
If your dog has eaten a small amount of cat food once or twice, then it is unlikely to cause them significant harm. However, if it becomes a regular occurrence or your dog is starting to show signs of an upset tummy after consuming it, then it’s best to take them to the vet for a quick check.
The solution to the problem is to buy your pup a food that is so delicious that they won’t go hunting for the cat’s kai instead! Real Dog Food is a tasty blend of premium, natural ingredients that dogs just love! Shop our range now.
What you feed your doggo really can have an impact on how they behave. This is why:
Nutritional Quality
High quality natural dog foods like Real Dog Food are formulated to give your dog all the goodness it needs, aka balanced nutrition. As we all know, proper nutrition is essential for great overall health, and that overall health includes your pup’s cognitive function. If your pup’s diet lacks essential nutrients then it can lead to various health problems and potentially behavioural issues.
Food Sensitivities
Some dogs may have sensitivities to things like artificial additives, preservatives, or filler ingredients that are typically found in lower-quality foods. These sensitivities can cause discomfort or other reactions in your dog, unsettling them and even contributing towards behavioural issues. By choosing a high-quality natural blend instead, you can reduce the risk of reactions to these types of ingredients.
Digestive Health
When you feed your pup a good quality food, it will generally include natural ingredients. Natural ingredients are often easier for dogs to digest. That means it reduces the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort. Like humans, dogs behave better when they are feeling good! A comfy tummy gives you the best chance of good behaviour, whereas discomfort can create irritability or restlessness.
Long Term Health
Choosing a food with all the good ingredients can help your dog to have better long term health. That health will include their cognitive function - a major factor in their behaviour. Real Dog Food even includes the right antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to support good brain health. This can positively influence your dog's behaviour as all those neural pathways are firing in the right way for obedience.
Keep It Consistent
Dogs are creatures of habit. So, the timing of their meals can influence their behaviour. If you don’t feed your dogs at a set time, they can potentially become anxious or irritable due to the inconsistency. Establishing a regular feeding schedule can help to create an expected routine that will reduce your pup’s stress levels. A calm pup is a better behaved pup!
Energy Levels
Feeding your dog will obviously give them an energy boost. So, it’s not recommended to feed them at a time when you want them to be calm, like bedtime!
But, ensuring your pup has the right amount of energy at the right time of day is essential. High-quality dog foods contain great protein sources which give your pup the necessary energy for an active and healthy lifestyle. Proper energy levels can positively impact your dog’s behaviour by reducing restlessness and hyperactivity.
Appropriate Amounts
Feeding your dog an appropriate amount for its size can help it to be better behaved. When you feed them too much or too little, it can result in hyperactivity or lethargy. These two states can negatively impact your pup’s behaviour. Feeding them the right amount will ensure they have enough energy to make it through the day feeling good, but not have energy left to burn!
For a simple reference, you should feed your pup 100g of Real Dog Food per 10kg of body weight.
Monitor Snacks and Treats
Be mindful of the number of snacks and treats your dog consumes in a day. It is perfectly fine to give them treats, especially when training, but be conscious of what you are giving them as it can impact their diet. Too many treats can disrupt their meal schedule and potentially impact their behaviour.
Feed Them In Their Space
We already mentioned that you should feed your pooch at a consistent time. You should also feed them in a consistent space. If you have multiple dogs, you may choose to feed them in separate spaces to prevent food aggression, competition, or someone scoffing everyone else’s meal!
Remember that dogs can become territorial around food. That’s why it is particularly important to feed them in their own space and never feed them from your dinner table at mealtime as this can create bad habits.
Meals Are A Training Opportunity
Mealtime is a great time to reinforce good behaviour. Firstly, you want to set up a routine. Using verbal cues like “time to eat” or something similar will signify that it is mealtime and that you are in control, highlighting your role as the pack leader.
You can also practice obedience commands like, “sit”, “stay” and “wait” for promoting self-control. By completing training exercises at mealtime, you can use a portion of your doggo’s allocated kibble as a training reward. It’s also a good opportunity to reinforce positive behaviours and helps to mentally stimulate your pup.
As we’ve just mentioned, what you feed your dog can have an impact on their behaviour. Choosing a good quality food made from natural ingredients will give your dog the nutrition it needs to be happy and obedient.
Real Dog Food is the all-natural food to do that!
Specially formulated by pet nutritionists and made fresh weekly from human-quality ingredients right here in Aotearoa, it is the premium choice!
Shop our range of kibble now.
Every puppy will start out as a small dog, which is why they deserve a mention in this article. They will eventually grow into full sized adult dogs. But, during the first 9 months of their lives, their bodies start small and are doing a heck of a lot of growing and developing. So, they have different nutritional needs throughout their puppy phase.
Choosing a food that is specially formulated for puppies will give them everything they need to grow strong. Puppy food will usually contain higher levels of protein, fat and calories to support their rapid growth and development.
At Real Dog Food, our puppy blend contains grass fed beef for protein, fish meal for brain development, agrimoss as a natural prebiotic, fish oil containing Omegas 3 and 6 for brain health and vision development, rosemary as a powerful antioxidant for cardiovascular health, and plenty of other minerals and vitamins (like calcium for good bone health).
Words from our happy pup-tomers:
Lisa H tells us, “Our puppy wasn't loving his kibble, but we tried Real Dog Food Puppy and we were even able to use it for training! I love that it's locally made, using quality ingredients so I know it's good for him.”
And Keely W says, “Such amazing food, our bulldog is 5mths old and absolutely 100% loves these!! These biscuits are full of all the right ingredients none of the nasties, so you know you're feeding your pup a great balanced diet. Totally recommend!!”
Now, what about small adult dogs? We’ve learned that our young pups have different nutritional needs, but what about fully grown smaller dogs?
Well, if you select the right food for your dog then the answer is no. Smaller dogs do not necessarily need a different small dog food blend from their larger counterparts. But, in saying that, there are some things you should consider when choosing food for your small doggo.
Balanced Food
Not all dog foods are created equal! Even if it says that it’s a premium or complete food on the label, it pays to research a little further to ensure the food you choose gives your furry friend the core nutrients they need.
You can’t go wrong with our all-natural premium Real Dog Food Balanced option. It’s lovingly blended and enriched with the essential nutrients to create a healthy, complete diet for doggos of all shapes and sizes. Packed with the correct balance of probiotics, vitamins, minerals, proteins and goodness, it is hard to imagine a more healthy, full and balanced diet than this nutritious dog food for your furry best friend.
By choosing a balanced blend, you can ensure that your small dog gets everything it needs to stay happy, healthy and full.
Kibble Size
While your small pup can enjoy the same blend of food as its larger furry friends, you may want to consider the size of the kibble that you feed them. With littler mouths than a larger dog, it can be hard for smaller breeds to chow down on big biscuits.
Choosing a smaller cut of kibble makes it easier for your pup to chew and digest it. That’s why we offer three different sizes of kibble here at Real Dog Food. When you place your order for our all-natural premium food, you can select between small, medium and large kibble sizes to ensure you get the perfect meal for your pup, regardless of their breed.
Portion Size
Smaller dogs have smaller tummies than big dogs, so you need to be conscious of the portion size that you feed them. Some pups like to eat, and then eat, and then eat some more. Monitoring the amount they consume will prevent overeating or boredom snacking.
So, how much does your pup really need to eat?
When it comes to Real Dog Food, a basic feeding guide is to feed 1 cup/100g of our kibble per 10kg of body weight. So that means, a small dog would only need one of our 9kg bags to last them 30 days. And if you aren’t sure how much your dog weighs, rather than subjecting them to the vet scales, simply Google their breed and you’ll find an approximate answer online.
Your furry friend deserves the absolute best. Which is why you should choose Real Dog Food.
An all-natural kibble made from human-grade ingredients, your pup will get all the nutrition it needs to be happy and healthy. Plus, it tastes good too!
Shop for our Balanced blend now to give your pup the very best small dog food.
And it seems like they love the foods they shouldn’t even more than the ones they should.
That often makes it super hard to ignore those soulful puppy eyes gazing pleadingly at you while you are trying to enjoy a meal.
So, can you feed your pup treats off your own plate?
Let’s answer that question now.
Doggos can be pretty persuasive with their innocent eyes and ever present persistence, but should you give in and feed your dog treats off your plate?
Feeding dogs treats off your plate can be risky, so it’s generally not recommended. There are a number of reasons for this. The main ones are:
Some human foods are not suitable for your pup’s digestive system and some can even be harmful to them. You probably already know that chocolate is a big no-no, but there are also many other foods that could unintentionally harm your dog.
Grapes, raisins, onions and foods that contain the artificial sweetener Xylitol are just a small selection of the foods that can be potentially toxic to dogs. So, feeding your pup treats from your plate might accidentally expose them to these dangerous foods.
Being a completely different species to us, it stands to reason that dogs have completely different nutritional requirements to humans. Some human foods are safe for dogs to consume in moderate amounts. But, they should not necessarily form a large part of their diet or be relied upon as a primary source of nutrition.
It is much better for your pup to consume foods that are specifically designed to meet their unique dietary needs (hint: Real Dog Food is an excellent choice in that department!)
Feeding your dog from the dinner table can encourage some pretty cheeky habits. So, if you do it once, expect your pup to try their luck again and again. In the long term, it can encourage your dog to beg and may reinforce other undesirable behaviour.
It could also encourage food aggression if your dog becomes protective over the treats it scores from its favourite human and make them more persistent in trying to get food from you in the future.
Alright, so we know it’s not advised to give our pups human dinner treats. But, what about other dog treats? Can we still do that?
Of course! But, it is best to offer them a separate dog-friendly treat away from the dinner table. Dog-friendly means that it is safe and appropriate for their diet. So, not only excluding dangerous “human” ingredients, but treats that contain nutrients and proteins that are beneficial to their diet.
Giving dog specific treats can also be a great way to encourage good behaviour and reward your pup for training hard or learning well.
Here is a list of foods that can be dangerous for your dog to consume, so avoid giving them:
So, now we know the foods to avoid, what are the foods that you can give your pup to chow down on as a treat? Just like humans, dog treats should only be consumed in moderation and are not a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet.
But everyone likes a little treat sometimes, so you could try some of these:
The answer to this question is no. Dogs don’t actually NEED treats. However, we as owners tend to like to give them. The truth is, if your dog enjoys a healthy, balanced diet of high quality dog food, then that is all they need.
And, if their food tastes great, it might even be like a treat in itself. Well, that’s what some of our Real Dog Food customers have mentioned. Check out what they have to say…
Jackie L says: Our dog is certainly enjoying them - in fact when I had the bag delivered and it was sitting on the kitchen bench, his nose went into overdrive trying to source the smell that was obviously something yummy!
Brenda M says: We trialled this a couple of weeks ago and both of our dogs absolutely love the food. We are slowly transitioning them onto it, and they both pick out the Real Dog Food and eat that first!
Adele T says: My dog is OBSESSED with this food and I often use it as treats on our walks too to keep his mind active. He used to be a bit off biscuits but since making the switch to this he loves breakfast time.
So, if you are looking for a tasty food that is as good as a treat for your doggo, choose Real Dog Food. Shop our range of foods here and find our dog treats here.
]]>So, we’ve put together our top 10 tips for maintaining the ultimate dog health.
Check them out here:
1. Water, water, water
It doesn’t take much for your doggo to get dehydrated. Especially if they are really active or the weather is hot. There are also certain types of medications that can cause dehydration. So, the number one priority for keeping your pup healthy is providing plenty of fresh water for them to drink!
If you notice your dog has dry or sticky gums, sunken eyes, excessive panting, lethargy, or reduced urine output, it could be dehydrated. Get some water into them immediately!
2. Keep them moving
Regular physical activity is crucial for keeping your pup in tip top shape. They should have some space to run around at home as a starter. Then, it’s also recommended to take them for a decent walk on a daily basis.
You can then supplement that with trips to the dog park, the bush or the beach. These new and interesting places not only keep them active, but also stimulate their senses with new things to sniff and explore.
3. Keep on top of regular health aspects
Make sure your pup is free from parasites by regularly treating them for fleas and worms. Depending on the type or brand you choose, this needs to be done either monthly or quarterly.
You’ll also want to take your vet’s recommendation on how regularly your doggo needs to visit for check ups to monitor their overall dog health. Seeing your vet regularly will also mean that you can stay on top of their vaccinations.
Don’t forget about your pup’s teeth either. Good dental hygiene is important for dogs. Your vet will guide you on the best oral care practices. This may include brushing their teeth with a dog toothpaste or dental treatments on their vet visits. You can also get dental chews and toys to help with oral care, and Real Dog Food biscuits have been formulated for good dental health too.
4. Keep an eye on their weight
Pooches need to maintain a healthy weight for good heart, joint and overall dog health. Obesity can lead to a bunch of different health problems in dogs. So, it is up to you to ensure they maintain that healthy weight through proper diet and exercise.
You can do that by following point 2 and keeping them active. Plus, don’t forget to choose a great, nutritious food that gives them all the goodness they need in their diet. Oh, and make sure you only feed them an appropriate amount of that food!
5. Keep them groomed
Some breeds will require regular trips to a professional groomer to keep their coat in manageable condition. Other pups will just need a good brush and a regular bath.
Regular grooming is important for your dog’s skin, coat and overall cleanliness (yep, that means preventing the wet dog or I’ve-just-rolled-in-something-nasty stink!) Brush their fur to prevent matting, bathe them as needed, trim their nails and don’t forget to use dog-friendly products to do all of that!
6.Mental stimulation
Just like us, your pup can get bored. And if they are bored on a regular basis, it can impact their behaviour and mood. Some dogs will chew, some will sulk, and some will get into unnecessary mischief. To avoid all of that, keep their brains ticking over with good mental stimulation.
Regular walks and interactions with their humans are a good start. Then, you can supplement that with other things that your dog might find interesting. That could be obedience training, fitness circuits, interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or various games to keep their minds active.
7.Keep them social
Pups love hanging out with other pups! That’s when all the best chaseys, butt sniffing, and tussling happens. Socialising your dog from a young age will help them to become well adjusted and comfortable in a range of different situations. Obedience training is great for promoting their own safety and the safety of those that interact with your dog.
Then, keep up the socialisation by having regular doggy playdates. You can do this with your friends that have doggos, enrolling them in a doggy daycare or group walking programme, taking them to the dog park, or there might even be dog events in your local area.
8.Check their environment
Check that your home and backyard are safe for your pup. Obviously, that means fully fenced so that they can’t escape. But, it also means checking that there are no toxic plants, that dangerous substances are out of reach and that there is nothing they can hurt themselves on.
This will create a dog-friendly environment to keep them happy and healthy, and minimise the risk of accidents and injuries.
9.Fill their cup
Dogs LOVE companionship. They are super social creatures who need a bunch of love and attention to remain happy and healthy. Luckily, they are so darn cute, so spending heaps of time with them sure isn’t difficult!
Offer them all the love, attention and affection that they deserve. All these positive interactions will strengthen the bond you have together, promoting their overall happiness and wellbeing (and it certainly won’t hurt yours either).
10. Feed them a healthy diet
Probably one of the most important things you can do to promote good dog health is to feed them a balanced and nutritious diet. Food fuels their bodies and delivers the essential nutrients they need to function well.
Here at Real Dog Food, our foods have been formulated by pet nutrition experts to give your pup all the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients they need to live a happy, healthy life. So, it’s hard to imagine a more healthy, full and balanced diet than this nutritious dog food!
We have what your pup needs for good dog health. Whether they are tiny, monstrous, purebred or not, our premium ingredient food will keep their tummies happy. We even have blends specially formulated for working dogs, and those with allergies or wheat intolerances.
Shop our range of Real Dog Food now.
Dog digestion is an interesting topic as it is the process that gives your pup the nutrients they need to stay happy and healthy, and the energy to get up to all those crazy antics.
What you put in the top end will significantly impact what comes out of the bottom end!
So, let’s explore the topic of dog digestion and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this complicated process.
When your pup gobbles up their food or snaffles a dropped morsel off the ground, their bodies will need to process it. That is called digestion and is the process where food is broken down by your pup’s digestive system and nutrients are absorbed by their body.
Here’s what’s going on in that process:
As we just learnt, the process of digestion is all about converting the good stuff in your dog’s food into energy and fuel for their body. If the food you are feeding your pup is not rich in the vital nutrients they need, then they will create more waste and will be hungrier more often.
Here’s a couple of reasons why nutrient-rich food is essential from a digestive perspective:
Proper Digestive Function
Nutrient-rich food provides the necessary components for a healthy body. It contains a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Not only do these nutrients keep your pup in good overall health, but they also help to maintain the integrity and function of their digestive organs, including the stomach, intestines, and associated enzymes.
Nutrient Absorption
A nutrient-rich diet ensures that your doggo receives the essential nutrients they need for overall health. By providing nutrient-rich food, you increase the availability and absorption of essential nutrients, meaning your doggo has to eat less to get the good stuff out. It doesn’t hurt that nutrient-rich food promotes optimal health and vitality too!
Digestive Efficiency:
Nutrient-rich food (like Real Dog Food) is specially formulated to be easily digestible. That means it can be efficiently broken down and absorbed by your pup’s digestive system. Highly digestible diets can help minimise any strain on your dog’s digestive organs and ensure your furry friend is obtaining the maximum nutritional benefit from their food. This is particularly important for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive disorders.
Fibre Content and Digestive Health
Nutrient-rich food contains the appropriate amount of dietary fibre. Fibre plays a crucial role in maintaining good digestive health. It helps with the exit path, shall we say! Fibre adds bulk to the stool, promoting regular bowel movements and minimising the risk of constipation or diarrhea. Fibre can also support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This helps maintain a healthy balance of the gut microbiota and supports overall digestive function.
Reduced Digestive Upset
If you have a doggo with a touchy tum, you’ll know the perils (and smells) of digestive upset! Feeding your dog nutrient-rich food can help minimise the risk of upset tummies. High-quality diets formulated with easily digestible ingredients and balanced nutrient profiles are less likely to cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas. Rather, they promote comfort and good wellbeing.
What Does Good Food Look Like?
So, what food is best for good doggy digestion? Well, we think one of the greatest options is Real Dog Food. And that is because it has been specially formulated by leading pet nutritionists and professors of animal nutrition. The unique formulations perfectly fit the dietary needs of a huge range of pups - big, small, old, young, working or lazy, and even those with allergies or wheat intolerances.
Packed with the correct balance of probiotics, vitamins, minerals, proteins and goodness, it is hard to imagine a more healthy and balanced diet than this nutritious dog food for your furry best friend.
The great news is, our baked biscuits are a complete dietary solution for your doggo, so you don’t need to supplement feed with any other kind of food.
Check out our range of complete and nutrient rich foods here.
]]>Do I need to feed my pup wet dog food as well as dry food?
All pup owners will have a bag of dog biscuits ready and waiting to feed their furry friend. But aren’t sure whether or not to add meat or other wet food varieties into the diet as well.
So, let’s answer the question once and for all, then you’ll know exactly what your pup needs.
Your pup requires a balanced diet so that they get all the necessary nutrients to support its health and well-being. A healthy diet for a dog should include:
It's important to note that dogs all have different nutritional needs, based on their breed, size and activity levels. Choosing a premium food that suits their needs is the best way to go. Additionally, it's crucial to avoid feeding dogs human food, especially as foods like chocolate, onions, and grapes are poisonous for them.
Just like humans, dogs need to consume a healthy amount of fluids in their diet to keep them hydrated. That fact might have led to the misconception that dogs need to be fed a mixture of dry and wet dog food. That’s not the case.
Whether your dog needs to eat both wet and dry food depends on their individual needs and preferences, as well as any health concerns they may have.
Dry food is a convenient and affordable option that is easy to store and can help maintain your dog's dental health by promoting chewing and reducing plaque buildup. It's also a good choice for dogs who tend to overeat, as it can help them feel fuller for longer periods of time.
So, do they need wet dog food as well?
As long as your pup is drinking plenty of water and has a dry food that meets all of its nutritional needs, then they don’t need wet food on top of that. Of course, if you choose to give them some wet food if you want to.
Just like dry food, many of the commercial brands of wet foods for dogs are full of preservatives, additives and chemicals. So, it is best to choose natural options like lean fish and beef.
Like we mentioned before, steer away from feeding your dog human food and food off your own plate at dinner time. All meat or wet food options should contain plain ingredients - never give your dog food that is seasoned.
Some pups also love to munch on a bone. This can be good for their teeth too. Just make sure you choose an appropriate bone for your dog’s breed. Never give them cooked bones as they can splinter and cause blockages or tears in the digestive system.
It is essential that your dog consumes enough fluid to stay hydrated each day. This is especially important after physical activity and if it’s a hot day.
Try these ideas for keeping their fluids up:
Selecting the right food for your pup is an important job. After all, you want to ensure they are getting all the right nutrients to keep them happy and healthy.
Wet dog food is not an essential component of a healthy diet, but you can supplement kibble or biscuits with wet food if you choose to. As long as you select a premium food that contains everything your dog needs, they will be perfectly healthy on biscuits alone.
Our all-natural premium Real Dog Food Balanced is lovingly blended and enriched as a healthy complete diet for our doggy friends of all shapes and sizes. Packed with the correct balance of probiotics, vitamins, minerals, proteins and goodness, it is hard to imagine a more healthy, full and balanced diet than this nutritious dog food for your furry best friend.
And, if your pup has special dietary needs, we have great options available for them too. We also offer, puppy, grain-free, allergy-friendly and working dog formulations.
]]>But, let's face it, your dog is best friends with EVERYONE in your family, are we right?
There is just something about their furry little face and that wagging tail that is hard to resist.
And, because you love your doggo so much, you want to give them the very best of everything - including food.
So, should you be feeding your pooch a natural dog food? Is it really better for them?
Let’s explore the answer to that question right now.
Natural dog food is a type of pet food that is made with all natural ingredients. That means it does not contain any artificial colours, preservatives or flavours.
Here at Real Dog Food, our foods are considered natural. They are made with natural ingredients like meat, vegetables, and whole grains. These ingredients are minimally processed and provide all the essential nutrients your dog needs. We do not use chemical preservatives, only minimal amounts of natural antioxidants like garlic.
So, natural foods should equal natural ingredients. But, it’s important to note that use of the word “natural” is not regulated on products here in New Zealand. That means it is vital to check that what you are buying is actually made with natural ingredients.
With Real Dog Food, you can be assured that is the case!
There are plenty of reasons why natural dog food is the right choice for your pup! Here are a few of our favourite reasons:
Health Benefits
Because natural dog food is made from wholesome ingredients that are barely processed, they are free from nasty chemical additives. Unlike their commercial alternatives, natural foods don’t contain artificial components for flavour, preservation or appearance.
As we mentioned above, our range of natural dog foods have all the essential nutrients your dog needs to thrive. Our tasty biscuits have been formulated to include the right balance of carbs, protein and healthy fats to keep your pup full and satisfied. This carefully crafted balance and the quality ingredients used can help to improve your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.
Nutrition
Did you know that the nutritional benefits of food dwindle the longer you cook it? That’s why we use the process of extrusion to cook our pup chow super fast! It is cooked under pressure by direct steam injection in less than 30 seconds. Using this method ensures minimal nutrition loss, particularly in the vitamin department as they are subject to damage when heated for too long.
Low Allergy Risk
It is not uncommon for dogs to have sensitivities to certain ingredients. Wheat, corn, soy, and certain colourings and preservatives are all commonly found in commercial dog foods and are known triggers for many allergies. Often, when you read the ingredients list it is long and there are heaps of things you can’t pronounce.
By comparison, natural dog foods have a much shorter ingredient list (that you can pronounce and understand) and are usually free from common allergens.
Here at Real Dog Food, we know dogs have different dietary needs. For known allergies, you can shop our no nasties, no nonsense Allergy range. We have options that are grain-free, or hypoallergenic formulas suitable for doggies with sensitive digestion, kidney or liver problems, or pancreatitis.
Tastes Better
Our pups deserve tasty food just as much as we do! And because natural dog foods contain only natural, high-quality ingredients, they are delicious! Many dogs prefer the taste of our foods over commercial products because they have a more natural flavour.
Better Digestion
Because our natural dog foods are made with premium, natural ingredients, they are easy on your dog's digestive system. Why? Because our high-quality ingredients are what Mother Nature intended for your pup’s diet! That means they are more easily broken down by your dog’s digestive system for consistently healthy bodies.
It’s Fresher
Many commercial dog foods are created overseas, which means they need to take the looooong trip to New Zealand via boat. To ensure the products survive the trip, they contain a hefty dose of preservatives. It’s not uncommon for commercial dog foods to sit upwards of 3 months before even hitting the shop shelves.
The good thing is, you don’t need to wait anywhere near as long for our dog food! We make weekly batches of food that are delivered straight to your door. Fresh and yummy!
Is Natural Food Better?
So, the big question… is natural dog food better for my dog?
In short, yes! As long as you choose the right formulation for your doggo. Each dog has individual needs and preferences when it comes to food, so it is vital that you find a brand that meets your standards for quality and nutrition.
A big part of that is getting educated about what you are actually feeding your pup. Not all natural foods are created equally. Some foods claiming to be natural may still contain fillers. You need to carefully read the labels of the products you are thinking of buying to find out what each brand actually contains.
Or, you could save yourself the trouble and simply order your pet food from Real Dog Food. Our foods are 100% natural and 100% NZ made. They are crafted from premium ingredients and we use the same formulation every time to ensure nutritional and taste consistency.
And, to make things easy for you, we deliver them right to your doorstep either as an ongoing subscription or a one-off purchase. So, head over and order yours today!
]]>
In 1915, the ANZAC Troops set out on what would be more than eight months of grueling combat. By their side were thousands of animals, from horses to canaries and everything in between - including their canine companions.
Not all dogs travelled with the soldiers to war - many were strays, collected along the way. Dogs were trained to carry medicine and messages, and to help find wounded soldiers in the dark. Many were valued purely for their companionship.
Injured, dying or alone, these loyal and dedicated dogs would stay by the side of soldiers, providing comfort and friendship in dire times.
The Red Cross utilised many dogs for these purposes.
The impeccable sense of smell and hunting abilities possessed by dogs meant that in the dead of night, in no mans land, medics were able to locate and provide assistance to the injured or fallen.
Image courtesy of nzhistory.govt.nz
The most daring of doggies were used as messenger dogs. An incredibly dangerous task, these dogs were sent through blazing battlefields to deliver messages between parties when all other communications were down.
Many successes would not have been possible, had it not been for help from these bold creatures.
It's difficult to find statistics on how many dogs were lost in battle. Cenotaphs don't include the names of all these furry friends, but we shall remember them.
Over the years, as memorabilia has made its way to museums and historians, the importance of these animals presence has become obvious. You can find photographs and stories of particular dogs who saved lives, uncovered hidden explosives, and guarded equipment.
These dogs brought not only intelligence and friendship to our troops - but joy, and fun. In the darkest of times, as many of us know, a dog can bring a smile to your face.
Dogs are still used regularly for military and special force assignments.
This Anzac day, we remember all creatures, great and small.
Real Dog Food are donating a portion of all April sales to the New Zealand Returned Services Association in memory of our brave, loyal, loving ANZAC dogs.
Onions are the biggest culprit of all harmful foods found commonly around the house. On their own, raw onion isn’t naturally appealing to dogs but the problem lies with dogs’ best friends. Humans tend to cook onions into everything, in varying quantities. In fact, onion, garlic, chives, and leeks all belong to the same (Allium) family. Studies show that as little as 15 to 30 grams of onion per kilogram of the dog’s body weight can cause observably harmful changes in the dog’s blood.
Your life-saver in the morning. Not so much for your little best friend. Caffeinated foods and beverages, such as tea and coffee, are toxic for dogs. You shouldn’t worry about the odd lap or two from curious friends sniffing around your morning mug, but chowing down on coffee grounds and tea bags can be deadly so make sure you keep them away from your pups. Hyperactivity isn’t so cute when it leads to tachycardia or seizures.
Wine o’clock? As much as we hate to say it out loud, alcohol is a poison for both humans and dogs. We just (hopefully) make good decisions based on how much we know we can handle, how much we want to unwind, and how much we’re willing to pay for it in the morning... We probably don’t need to tell you about the effects of alcohol poisoning. Just picture that, but so much worse for your poor pupster as they have a far lower tolerance than humans do.
It’s common knowledge that chocolate is bad for dogs, and especially poisonous for smaller pups. The thing to note is that the darker the chocolate the more dangerous it is, due to the concentration of “methylxanthine”. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder have higher amounts of methylxanthine and so are more toxic. Just half a block of dark cooking chocolate is enough to seriously poison a 10kg dog. White chocolate on the other hand, while still not particularly good for dogs, would need to be consumed in far higher quantities before it reaches the danger zone.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener, and one of the most toxic ingredients you’ve probably never even thought about. It’s more poisonous than chocolate, and it’s in everything. Well, not everything, but in sugar-free lollies, sweet treats, baked goods, chewing gum... Even just small amounts can cause liver failure, seizures, and hypoglycemia. Nothing sweet about that.
Many dogs suffer from lactose intolerance, which means that they aren’t able to digest milk products effectively. They might get bloated, have diarrhea, or just a bad tummy ache. Some dairy products may be a little easier for your doggo to digest, and so might be okay in small doses as a treat now and then, but only with caution and not if they have a history of stomach sensitivity.
Every part of the avocado is potentially poisonous to all animals. You wouldn’t know (right?) because they’re so delicious! They contain a fungicidal toxin called “persin”. Good for us, but not for most animals! With smaller doses or larger dogs, symptoms may present as gastrointestinal irritation (vomiting, diarrhea), but can cause fluid accumulation in the lungs resulting in difficulty breathing and even death when consumed in larger quantities or by smaller animals.
Grapes (as well as raisins and sultanas) have been reported in more recent years to be a cause for renal failure. Experts aren’t quite sure what compound it is exactly in grapes that doesn’t quite sit well with dogs, but there sadly have been cases of fatality from 10 to 57 grams of grapes per kilogram of the dog’s body weight.
Juicy fruits! But the fruit itself isn't the problem. The pits inside peaches, plums, persimmons, and apricots are poisonous for both humans and dogs as they contain cyanide. As humans, we know to eat around the poisonous pit but dogs have never learnt not to. They're sometimes more inclined to bite into it or devour it whole. The seeds can also cause inflammation of the small intestine, so we'd recommend being extra careful when feeding your dogs any fruits.
Not all nuts. Just some nuts. Specifically macadamia nuts and walnuts. Macadamia nuts and walnuts are commonly found in cookies and other baked goods. Macadamias contain a toxin that can affect the nervous system, the digestive system, and the muscles. Also, like humans, dogs can sometimes have other nut allergies, such as a peanut allergy, with varying degrees of severity.
(Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2984110/#CIT0012)
Real Dog Food is batch-made fresh each week with only the very best of ingredients for the woofiest member of your family. It might seem like the best food for your best friend would be what you eat yourself, but your dog requires a specialised diet.
Is your dog a little more sensitive? You may need special food for dogs with allergies.
]]>
While the various lockdown levels have turned the country on its head, the news is not all bad. In fact, some creatures are absolutely loving the lockdown protocols that are restricting us to our homes. Those creatures are our loveable, furry canine friends. After all, they have their humans at home with them a lot more. What could be better for those four-legged friends? While life might feel a bit restricted right now, we have to look for the silver linings. We are saving kiwi lives, and… we get to spend more time with our pets!
Here’s how you can make the most of lockdown with your pet and how you can create a happier, healthier lifestyle for them too.
Dogs are the absolute best at unconditional love. There is nothing that will stand in the way of their excitement to see you and the special place you hold in their hearts. Sometimes when life is so busy, you don’t always get to spend as much time as you want to with your pup. Luckily, lockdown and the following levels have given us the gift of time. You can actually take the time to reconnect with your pets and love each other that little bit more. Regular walks, cuddles and playtime will make you realise just why you welcomed a dog into your family in the first place. Not only is it a great excuse for the whole family to stay active, but it also gets you out of the house and into the fresh air.
We know our pets are pretty awesome, but did you know that they can boost your mental wellbeing too? The love of a pet is known to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, ease the feelings of loneliness, and helps you to stay more active. It is also documented that children who grow up with a pet have a stronger sense of responsibility, and also feel more secure. Not bad for a little ball of fluff!
Patting your pet helps your body to release oxytocin (the happy hormone) and reduces the production of cortisol (the stress hormone). So, the simple act of showing your pet some love can help you to feel happier, healthier and calmer.
That old saying “you are what you eat” still has a lot of merit in the modern world. The lockdown protocols restricted access to a lot of the fast and processed food we may have included in our diets. I know many people who say they are feeling better for eating every meal at home.
The same goes for your pet. If they rely on a diet of highly processed foods, then they aren’t getting enough of the nutrients they need. It can leave them feeling sluggish, demotivated and even in pain. Many people have chosen the level 2 and 3 periods as a time to modify their pet’s diets. They are home more which makes it easier to make the transition. Changing your pet’s diet should be a gradual process. The new food should be integrated over a 10-day period to ensure your pet does not have any adverse reactions or withdrawals from the diet they are used to.
Choosing a complete all-natural, nutrient-rich food means that your dog will be happier and healthier. With none of the preservatives and chemicals of supermarket or international brands, Real Dog Food is the solution you have been looking for.
]]>Any dog owner will tell you that dogs LOVE to eat!
They will eat pretty much anything, including things they really, really shouldn’t. Like scraps from the table, old shoes, roadkill, and even errrr…. “deposits” left by other dogs – anything is fair game.
With such far-ranging tastes, surely any old dog food will be fine, right?
Wrong.
Read on to find out why dog nutrition matters, and how it can help your pup live a long and happy life.
]]>They will eat pretty much anything, including things they really, really shouldn’t. Like scraps from the table, old shoes, roadkill, and even errrr…. “deposits” left by other dogs – anything is fair game.
With such far-ranging tastes, surely any old dog food will be fine, right?
Wrong.
Our four-legged besties actually have very specific dietary requirements. That’s where dog nutritionists come in. Yes, they do exist. In fact, we worked with an excellent one to create our premium natural dog food.
Read on to find out why dog nutrition matters, and how it can help your pup live a long and happy life.
Every Dog Is A Unique Snowflake
No two dogs are alike, even if they’re from the same litter.
So, that means their nutritional requirements differ too. They vary hugely depending on the age of your dog, their activity level, their breed, and any health conditions they may have.
For example, rapidly growing puppies need at least twice as much calcium as adult dogs, and pregnant females need twice as much protein. Get the nutrition wrong, and you could see severe growth abnormalities.
Choosing the right food for your pup is a large part of ensuring they stay healthy. So, just grabbing the nearest bag of kibble or the closest generic dog roll is not the answer. (Unless of course, the nearest bag of kibble is the Real Dog Food that has just arrived on your doorstep!)
Correct Nutrition Is A Balancing Act
Just like humans, dogs need a balanced diet for their bodies to operate at peak efficiency.
They need six key dietary components to thrive: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. All these things affect one another and interact in different ways.
Get the proportions wrong, and you can seriously impact the wellbeing of your dog. Increasing one vitamin or mineral may mean you need to decrease or increase others to ensure the overall nutritional values remain correct. It’s a complicated task!
Natural Is Better
All those preservatives and chemicals you can’t even pronounce are not what we should be feeding any living creature, let alone our pampered pooches. The fresher and more natural the food, the more readily available all those essential nutrients become.
Sure, you could buy fresh meat, fruit, and veggies and spend your days preparing home-cooked meals for your dog. But without the years of education and experience that a dog nutritionist has, your dog would probably still miss out on something important. And really, who has that kind of time?
Real Dog Food is made fresh every week in New Zealand, with 100% natural ingredients and no hidden nasties.
The Allergy Factor
More and more dogs are developing dietary allergies. These intolerances are in response to certain foods and can show up as itchy skin, rashes, ear infections, hot spots, or tummy troubles.
A simple yet scientifically formulated diet is the key to preventing and managing food allergies. The fewer ingredients, the easier it is to figure out the culprit. Our nutritionist helped create the Allergies (hypoallergenic) and Grain Free diets to cater to the growing number of sensitive doggies out there!
Plus, they filled our Balanced and Puppy formulations with all the good stuff too!
We know that your dog is part of the family, and you want him or her to be as healthy as possible for as long as possible. We feel the same way.
That's why Real Dog Food was crafted with the help of a dog nutritionist who understands what these beautiful canines need from birth to old age – and every stage in between.
So, why not try your pup on one of our all-natural blends and ensure you are ticking the boxes on all their dietary requirements. We deliver right to your door on a subscription or one off basis and we are so confident your pup will love it that we have a 100% money back guarantee!
Grab a trial sized bag today.
]]>Did You Know Puppies Have Different Dietary Needs To Adult Dogs? Many pet owners sometimes don’t understand the different dietary needs that our poochy pals require. As younger dogs are still in their critical development stages, specialised dog food is an important and often necessary option. With so many dog food options on the market, how do you know which is the best one?
]]>Puppies are cute and so much fun. They are welcomed into families around NZ every day.
Many pet owners sometimes don’t understand the different dietary needs that our poochy pals require. As younger dogs are still in their critical development stages, specialised dog food is an important and often necessary option.
With so many dog food options on the market, how do you know which is the best one?
Firstly, let’s look at the difference between traditional and specialist puppy food and how specialist dog food can give your pooch the nutrients he needs most!
Traditional Puppy Food vs. Specialist Puppy Food
We are what we eat, and the same goes for our pets. But traditional puppy food is expensive, and may not be that beneficial. Traditional puppy food is often labelled as “human grade”. Unfortunately, this misbrands the product, since humans and animals have very different nutritional needs.
The buzz term “Human grade” puppy foods are not all they have cracked up to be. They can potentially endanger your dog as they don’t automatically ensure the safety of your pet.
Specialist puppy foods, however, are manufactured specifically for your individual doggy needs. They offer a complete and balanced diet based on specialist formulas. Made from natural ingredients and no preservatives, they ensure your pup receives all the right nutrients in the correct ratios. Catering for all life stages, you can simply choose the food your pup needs based on the label.
Why We Need A Specialised Puppy Food
An active, growing puppy is at a very different life stage than a fully grown dog. Specialised puppy foods recognise and embrace this fact.
Here at Real Dog Food, we supply a 100% New Zealand brand of specialised pet food. Made using fresh ingredients such as meat, poultry and fish, it “closely mimics” our pet’s wildlife diets. This replication is a helpful advantage for keeping your pooch healthy.
A specialist diet is key for pet owners, as it gives your puppy the natural nutrients and proteins he needs to grow strong, healthy and happy.
The great thing about our specialised puppy food is that it has a high protein intake, as well as the advantage of no added artificial flavours and colours. We use simple dog-friendly formulas. That means no human foods, which are toxic and potentially deadly for our four-legged friends.
Why You Need To Choose The Right Puppy Food
Choosing the right food for your puppy is a long and often complicated process. Pet owners struggle to find the correct solution, and many brands are competing for our money and time.
However, pet owners need to take careful consideration when buying puppy chow, as many brands include preservatives and additives that are not always right for our pets. A critical step is understanding what is in each puppy brand. That way, you can ensure your pets are getting the correct nutrients.
Real Dog Food is a complete and natural feeding solution for your puppy. With no nasties and only fresh ingredients, you can sleep easy at night knowing your pet is well fed. This will go a long way for both you and your puppy, since choosing the correct brand can save you time, effort and money, as well as ensuring your pet’s safety and longevity.
Puppies (and other pets!) bring a lot of love and laughter into our lives, so feeding them a specialised puppy food is an easy and time-saving way to keep your pet healthy and happy.
Why not start the year on the right foot and try our specialised puppy food? You can grab a trial bag (with a 100% money back guarantee) to check if your pup likes it. He will be sure to thank you with plenty of tail wags!
]]>
What All-Natural Food Contains
When you look at the ingredient labels on Real Dog Food blends, you will know what all of the ingredients are. There won’t be any that you don’t know how to pronounce, or that you couldn’t spell off the top of your head. All-natural dog food quite literally contains all natural ingredients. That means the kinds of foods you would put on your own plate. Grass fed meats, corn, rice, fresh fish, herbs, flaxseed, soy, garlic - these are all common ingredients that you will find in our various food blends.
The ingredients are selected to be a complete diet for your dog, providing them with the essential vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. Because different dogs have different needs, we have Puppy, Balanced, and Allergy-Friendly blends to ensure your pup’s needs are fully catered for. Made fresh on a weekly basis, there is no need for the inclusion of preservatives or other nasties. Just all-natural ingredients that your dogs will love!
Why It Is A Healthier Alternative
Do you really know what is in the dog food you buy from the supermarket or pet store? And do you know how fresh it is? Sure, premium foods are better for your pets than other brands, but they still contain chemicals. Premium dog food brands are all made overseas, mostly in Europe or America. Because there is such a high demand for them, they are made in huge batches on huge industrial machines.
From there, they are packaged and sent out to the world. The timeframe between them being mixed and being poured in your dog’s bowl could be months. That means in order to be a practical worldwide food source, they need to add preservatives to the mix. Goodness knows what chemicals you could inadvertently be feeding your dog.
By comparison, Real Dog Food is created in weekly small batches. It is packaged and sent out in the same week that it is made. You can’t get it any fresher than that! And… no need for nasty preservatives and chemicals. We also have the insider info (from our expert furry taste testers) that it is yum! It always disappears out of the bowls at our place at super speed.
Benefits For Your Pet
Dogs are natural omnivores. That means, they like to eat a range of meats and plant based materials. Our all-natural food gives them a mixed blend of all the good stuff they need at every meal. It means they get to enjoy their doggy life. With a balanced diet of nutrients and minerals, it means no tummy troubles and more energy for them. Dogs have also been known to live longer and have less troubles with allergies. Our allergy blend aids dogs with sensitive digestion, kidney or liver problems, and pancreatitis, as well as wheat and various other allergies.
So, if you are ready to get your pet onto the good stuff and enjoy all the benefits that it brings, then why not try one of our 1.5kg trial packs. 100% love it or get your money back! Shop our trial packs now.
If your four-legged friend is extra itchy, has skin or ear problems, tummy troubles, or seems low, he could be suffering from a food allergy or intolerance. This can even happen if he or she has been chowing down on the same food they have enjoyed for years. So, what is a food allergy, what are the common symptoms?
Here’s how to identify a food allergy or sensitivity in your dog, and what to do about it.
The process of an allergic reaction is rather complex, but it boils down to the body having an abnormal response to something that should be harmless. The immune system responds to the offending item as if it’s dangerous, causing a variety of symptoms.
In dogs, this can often be triggered by a wheat allergy or gluten intolerance.
Food intolerance and allergies have similar symptoms to other allergic responses in canines and most commonly include:
In around 80 percent of allergic reactions, the ears are involved. Commonly, the paws are a problem area, as are the inner thighs and tummy.
If the problem continues, your dog may develop secondary skin infections and behavioural problems due to the discomfort.
In most cases, the culprit is going to be an animal protein or grain of some kind. The most well-known allergens for dogs are beef, dairy, and wheat – but chicken, lamb, eggs and soy can also be responsible.
However, there is nothing "wrong" with these food types. They simply have been the ingredients of choice in dog food for many decades – a dog could feasibly become allergic to anything over time.
If your dog is having any health issue, it's crucial to take him for a vet check before doing anything else. Once they rule out any other problems, they may suspect food allergies or intolerances (which have very similar signs and symptoms).
The only way to be sure of a food allergy or wheat/gluten intolerance – and pinpoint precisely what component is responsible – is to put your dog on an elimination diet.
This involves choosing food with ingredients that your dog has never eaten before and feeding him only that for four to six weeks. That means no human food and no snacks or treats that aren't related to the few key ingredients in your chosen diet.
Standard elimination diets might be based on fish and potato, rabbit and oats, or even kangaroo.
If your dog’s symptoms clear up on this diet, you must then introduce the old foods one by one to be certain of an allergy. If the symptoms flare up, you can identify the troublesome ingredient/s.
Once you have confirmed the allergen affecting your dog, simply avoiding it is the best way forward. Choose a diet that doesn't contain any of the offending ingredients, but make sure you take your vet's advice before making any changes.
Antihistamines and steroids are often useless against the symptoms of food allergies, but if your pup has secondary infections as a result of all the itching, you may need your vet to help clear those up.
If you and your vet suspect your dog is suffering from a food allergy, choosing the right diet is essential. Real Dog Food has developed a specially formulated grain-free recipe to ensure your pet gets the best food without the allergens. The formulation is based around low-allergen fish and potatoes to help return your best four-legged friend to optimal health.
The bags come in a range of sizes and we offer a 100% money back guarantee if you or your furry friend are not completely satisfied.
What’s in your current dog food? Not sure? Well, if you are buying commercial brands we can tell you there are probably a lot of ingredients that you won’t be able to pronounce, let alone know what they are! That is why we set out to find real food that would satisfy real dogs without the real big list of preservatives. Those reasons lead us to Real Dog Food.
]]>Not sure?
Well, if you are buying commercial brands we can tell you there are probably a lot of ingredients that you won’t be able to pronounce, let alone know what they are! That is why we set out to find real food that would satisfy real dogs without the real big list of preservatives. Those reasons lead us to Real Dog Food.
We would love to share our story with you, why real food is best for your pups, and a great special offer in reference to our puppy training… oops, we mean website training issues!
Let’s jump in...
Terry is just one part of the Real Dog Food team, but his story is what got us to where we are today. So, here it is…
Once upon a time, there was a young man with a dog. That dog was scratching herself raw and eating herself to pieces. She was always in and out of the vet, costing a heap of money. One day, Terry’s friend asked him what he was feeding his dog. When Terry replied supermarket brand dog food, some dog roll and the odd bone, the friend instantly knew the problem.
He advised Terry to start feeding his pup a premium brand balanced food. As soon as Terry switched, his dog’s health problems went away. Almost overnight, there was an improvement in the itching and scratching. Like many people, Terry did not realise the importance of feeding a premium food.
They never looked back. In fact, on its premium food diet, that dog went on to live until it was 17 years old. Terry knew the other pups in the litter as they had all gone to various friends of his. All the other people who owned dogs from the same litter had seen them pass away beforehand. Most of them were gone by 10 to 12 years old. None of them were being fed premium food.
We aren’t going to lie, while it is essential to feed your dog a premium food, the costs soon start to add up. Premium brands that you buy from pet stores and vets are expensive.
And, do you really know what is in them?
All of the premiums brands available in New Zealand come in from Europe and America. So, not only are you paying the premium food price tag, you are also paying for transport costs, customs duties and goodness knows what else.
Because these foods travel around the world, the factories produce them in large quantities. To keep them fresh in their travels, these brands need to contain plenty of preservatives. These huge batches could be months old before you even get the bag home. If preservatives are not good for us humans, what do you think they are doing to the dogs?
We wanted a more affordable food option for our dog, but we didn’t want to compromise on the quality of the food. So, my wife got researching.
She came across the amazing product that we sell now. Made fresh every week, right here in New Zealand, this premium brand has all of the goodness and none of the nasties. There are no artificial preservatives needed and it is made from 100% natural NZ ingredients.
The ingredients are sourced from grass fed animals and fresh fish - only craft batch food.
So, an all-natural, NZ made food with no nasties. Plus, it is more cost effective and we deliver it right to your door by the bag or via our subscription service.
Everybody wins!
As many of you know, we launched our brand at the Food Show and we had such an overwhelming amount of interest that our website could not cope. We know that meant some of you could not order what you wanted. So, we wanted to rectify that.
Real Dog Food is a food that we love, our dog loves and that we know you will love too! That is why we want to offer you a FREE 1.5kg bag to trial with your pet.
Our freebie food show trial bag offer is only for a limited time, so email us on sales@realdogfood.co.nz to secure yours now.
Then, when your dog falls in love with their trial bag, you can subscribe to our regular deliveries to ensure you never run out of pup food again!
We believe in our product so much that we offer a money back gaurantee. If you are not happy, then you can send the product back at your own cost and we will refund the money you paid for the food.
Shop for Puppy, Dog or Allergy Friendly Food Now]]>
Original Source: Science News
]]>
Diets based predominantly on raw meat have gained popularity in recent years, with proponents claiming they help with allergies, improve animals’ immune systems and keep their teeth whiter.
But a new study out of Utrecht University in the Netherlands shows many types of commercial raw meat-based pet food contain harmful bacteria, like E Coli and salmonella.
Dr Cave said that was just the tip of the iceberg.
“We see the most common problems in cats and dogs that are fed just muscle, plus or minus some organ meat as well.
“The most common deficiency we see is a deficiency of calcium, and that can lead to bone deformities ... or loss of bone density and then fractures in older animals.
“The range of problems can lead to multiple fractures.” Those in favour of such diets say raw meat is what domestic cats and dogs ancestors ate - so these diets were closer to what these animals would be eating in the wild.
Dr Cave said that was spurious reasoning.
“Many things happen in nature that we wouldn’t argue as being good or beneficial or want for our loved ones.
“Infection with parasites, trauma, predation from other animals ... these are all natural phenomena, but we don’t seek them out.
“And it’s not true that animals in the wild live this disease-free, bucolic existence that we can safely emulate, and expect them to live out the same kind of expectancy that we can see in cats and dogs owned and fed a commercial diet.”
Dr Cave said while raw meat diets can be safe with the aid of nutritional supplements, there was no research that proved they can boost animals’ health.
Original source: Radio NZ
]]>Dr Nick Cave, from Massey University, New Zealand, joins us after his presentation at the WALTHAM International Nutritional Science Symposium (WINSS). Nick shared his results that “Raw red meat diets decrease faecal microbial diversity in the dog”.
Feeding a raw diet is increasingly popular and a current hot topic. It remains an important issue and one that where we need to understand the effect that these diets may have on cat or dog health. Dr Cave and colleagues examined the changes in the bacterial diversity in the faeces of dogs fed a raw red meat diet compared to commercial kibble. Their research found a reduction in microbial diversity and speculate as to the potential effect of this.