We are dog parents here at JUST BETTER BRANDS, and today, we want to talk a little about the gut health of dogs. So if you have a pupper companion, this blog post is for you!
You may already know this, but there is a secret ingredient to keeping our furry friends healthy and happy: FIBER! (Our favorite topic, of course!)
Maintaining a healthy pup gut is crucial for the overall health and well-being of dogs, and research has shown that most dogs have a similar digestive system to humans. WHAT?!! Yep!
Like humans, their gut is home to trillions of bacteria, and the balance of these bacteria is important for maintaining a healthy immune system and digestion.
In most dogs, a healthy gut microbiome includes a diverse range of beneficial bacteria that work together to support digestion, boost immunity, and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
However, certain factors, like stress, illness, and some medications, disrupt the balance in the gut, which leads to digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and other gastrointestinal problems.
Additionally, some commercial dog kibble is considered a highly processed food with inadequate fiber because it is made with a variety of ingredients that are cooked, extruded, and often treated with preservatives and other additives to extend shelf life and improve palatability. This can often lead to stomach upset, bloating, gas, and irregular bowel function.
Has your pup’s toots ever cleared a room?! To all the cute little stinky butts out there, we have good news! Keep reading.
We know that every pet parent wants to make sure their furry friend is tail-waggingly happy and healthy, and ensuring that your pup gets enough fiber can be the key to maintaining their digestive health and overall wellness. Who knew?! 
Dogs, like humans, require both soluble and insoluble fiber for optimal health. Soluble fiber is important for dogs because it helps to regulate their digestion and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Woof!
When dogs consume soluble fiber, it dissolves in their stomach and forms a gel-like substance that slows down the absorption of food. This allows for a more gradual release of nutrients into the bloodstream, which can help to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. (Just like humans!!)
Soluble fiber is prebiotic which provides food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria play an essential role in maintaining a healthy immune system and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause illness.
Soluble fiber also helps to promote healthy digestion by increasing the bulk of the stool and promoting regular bowel movements. This can help to prevent constipation, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
But wait - there’s more! Every dog parent knows that with all that love and laughter comes a few unpleasant chores, like poo patrol! When your pup gets the right amount of fiber, poo pick-up is a breeze! No more smooshy hard to pick up poops!
And, if you’re sharing your home with a butt scooter, ensuring your pup has the right amount of soluble fiber will have them lose the scoot and wag a lot more! (just better.® fiber is our secret anti-scoot powder - more on that below!!)
Including soluble fiber in your pup's nutrition plan is vital for maintaining their digestive health, promoting overall wellness, and making a not-so-fun chore a bit easier!
So what are some good sources of soluble fiber for dogs?
There are many suitable sources of soluble fiber for dogs; here are a few top picks from pet pros! (Ask your veterinarian before making big changes to your pet’s nutrition plan!)
Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is a great source of soluble fiber for dogs and can help regulate their digestive system and ease tummy troubles. Choose organic, 100% pumpkin with no other ingredients!
Apples
Organic apples have plenty of soluble fiber and help freshen your dog's breath and clean teeth! And, of course, there is nothing quite like the joyful sound of your doggo crunching on a fresh apple, don’t you think?
Carrots
Organic carrots are also a good source of soluble fiber and can provide your dog with beta-carotene, an essential nutrient for eye health. (These also have a crunch factor of 10/10!)
Blueberries
Blueberries have soluble fiber and antioxidants, which help support your dog's immune system.
Oats
Oats are high in soluble fiber and beta-glucan. Oats can also provide your dog with protein and B vitamins.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds, high in soluble fiber, can also provide your dog with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and help support skin, coat health, and joint health.
And finally… just better.® Fiber:
just better.® is an all-natural, flavorless, prebiotic fiber powder. Our one ingredient is Non-GMO soluble corn fiber; that’s it! just better.® is flavorless, and even the most discerning pup cannot even tell it’s there! Add it to their meals or treats!
As we mentioned earlier, sharing your home with a gassy, butt-scooting pup with messy poops can be hard to deal with; on your next visit, bring your just better.® fiber package with you and ask your vet if adding just better.® to their meals is right for your doggo!
Here's a fun recipe for just better.® Bark Biscuits! These tasty treats are grain-free, high in fiber, and made with extra love!
Ingredients:
1/2 Cup Coconut Flour
1/4 Cup Ground Flaxseed
1/4 Cup just better.® Fiber
1 Teaspoon of Ground Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Natural Peanut Butter (No Sugar Added)
2 Eggs
1/4 Cup Unsweetened Organic Applesauce
1/4 Cup Water
50 Ounces of Unconditional Love (65 in higher altitudes). More can be added; adjust accordingly.
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the coconut flour, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and just better.® fiber.
Add in the peanut butter, eggs, applesauce, and water, and mix until a dough forms.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out the desired shape of the biscuits.
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle on the LOVE!
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the biscuits to cool completely before sharing with your pup!
Once cooled, show your pup their special treat made with love, have them do a trick, and give them their just better.® Bark Biscuit - BUT FIRST - take a bite and watch their reaction! LOL!
We hope you enjoyed learning with us today! National Pet Day is a great opportunity to spoil your pets with extra love, treats, and cuddles. It's also a chance to share your love for pets everywhere and donate, if you can, to your local rescue or sanctuary!