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Dog Nutrition & Wellness Blog

Sign up to our monthly newsletter to get our curated collection of articles on the benefits of cold-pressed dog food, dog nutrition & wellness, and much more!

  • 2 min read

If your dog is throwing up kibble, it’s understandable to feel concerned. Vomiting is never something to ignore, especially if it becomes a pattern. Sometimes, it’s linked to a larger health issue—other times, it’s simply a reaction to food that isn’t sitting well. In many cases, it could be a sign of food-related bloating, which might be eased by switching to something easier to digest.

Let’s explore what could be going on—and when it might be time to try a new food.

What Is Gastric Dilation?

Gastric dilation (commonly referred to as bloating) occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas and expands. This can be uncomfortable at best, and dangerous at worst—so knowing the warning signs is key.

Look out for:

  • Retching or trying to vomit without bringing anything up

  • A firm or swollen belly

  • Restlessness or pacing

  • Heavy drooling

  • Trouble breathing

Some dogs may vomit during the early stages of bloating, especially if they’ve recently eaten kibble as it will usually float and expand in the stomach before it starts breaking down properly. If you notice several of these symptoms together, it’s time to call your vet right away.

When Food Is the Issue

Not all bloating is related to a medical emergency. Sometimes, it’s simply a reaction to the food your dog is eating.

Dry kibble is a common culprit. Many kibble recipes include fillers, artificial flavors, and added preservatives that can be hard for some dogs to digest. On top of that, kibble will swell in the stomach not long after it comes in contact with moisture. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, this can lead to discomfort, gas, and eventually vomiting.

A Simpler, Gentler Option

At Nextrition, we make premium cold-pressed dog food with dogs like yours in mind. Our food is made from natural ingredients, pressed at low temperatures to preserve nutrients, and formed into nutrient-dense nuggets that won’t expand in the stomach. It breaks down easily, supports digestion, and is a better fit for dogs prone to bloating or food sensitivities.

No fillers. No swelling. Just real food that’s easier on your dog’s system.

Other Causes of Vomiting Kibble

If your dog throws up occasionally, food may not be the only factor. Other possibilities include:

  • Eating too fast and swallowing too much air

  • Sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients

  • Underlying gastrointestinal issues

In any case, it’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian, especially if the vomiting happens often or is paired with other symptoms.

The Bottom Line:
If your dog frequently throws up kibble, it could be their way of telling you the food isn’t agreeing with them. Making a change to something more digestible—like Nextrition cold-pressed food—could be the first step in helping her feel better.

And if you’re ever unsure, your vet is always a great place to start.

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  • 2 min read

We get it—cold-pressed dog food sounds a little different. And anytime something new comes along, it’s natural to feel skeptical. It doesn’t come in a can, and it doesn’t look like traditional kibble, so is it really dog food?

Absolutely. In fact, we’d argue it’s more real than the average bag of kibble or can of wet food. At Nextrition, we cold-press our recipes to preserve natural nutrition and flavor, using simple, natural ingredients that dogs love and thrive on. Our recipes use over 3 lbs. of real meat in every 4.5 lbs. of food.

What Cold Pressing Actually Means

Let’s clear up one common misconception: cold-pressed isn’t an ingredient—it’s a process. And it’s quite different from how traditional kibble is made.

Most kibble is cooked at high temperatures, which destroys a lot of the nutrients in the ingredients. To make up for that, manufacturers spray on liquified by-products for flavor and add in extra vitamins and preservatives. The end product might be shelf-stable, but it’s far from we consider natural.

Cold-pressed dog food is just that. At Nextrition, we gently press our natural ingredients at low temperatures into bite-sized pieces. The result? Food that keeps more of its natural vitamins, minerals, and taste—without needing added fillers or sprayed on flavor.

Why the Difference Matters

While high heat processing is relatively inexpensive and can make lots of “dog food” super quick, it also strips away much of what makes food nourishing. 

With cold pressing, we retain more of what your dog actually needs—from the nutrients that support healthy digestion and immunity to the natural aromas that keep tails wagging at mealtime. No preservatives. No liquified by-product flavor boosters. Just real, honest ingredients.

What’s “More Real” Than This?

A diet more minimally processed than cold-pressed food is a raw diet. If you’re feeding your dog fresh-cut meats, fish, and raw produce—great. But we also know that’s not realistic for every household.

That’s where Nextrition fits in. We offer the nutritional integrity of a raw diet with the convenience of dry food. It’s shelf-stable, easy to store, and simple to serve—without sacrificing quality or nutrition.

Still Not Sure?

We understand. The best way to find out if cold-pressed dog food is right for your pup is to try it. Purchase a trial pack, watch your dog’s reaction, and see the difference for yourself.

Yes, cold-pressed dog food is real natural food. And once your dog gives it a try, we think you’ll agree—it might just be better than what you thought dog food could be.

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  • 2 min read

If you’re like most dog owners, giving your dog a treat is one of the highlights of your day. It’s a simple way to show love—and let’s be honest, those tail wags and happy eyes make it hard to resist. But while treats are a fun part of your dog’s routine, they’re meant to complement your dog’s daily nutrition, not replace it.

That’s why we created Nextrition Tummy Treats—gut-friendly dog treats made with natural ingredients and designed to support healthy digestion. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, these treats are a gentle and rewarding choice.

Treats That Work With, Not Against, Your Dog’s Diet

Not all treats are created equal. Some are packed with artificial additives, fillers, or ingredients that don’t offer much nutritional benefit. The best treats serve a purpose—whether it’s supporting digestion, delivering extra nutrients, or rewarding positive behavior.

Look for treats that contain:

  • Simple, recognizable ingredients with no unnecessary fillers

  • Low in fat and highly digestible

  • Functional ingredients like pumpkin or apple cider vinegar

  • Protein sources your dog tolerates well

At Nextrition, we designed Tummy Treats with sensitive dogs in mind—using whole foods like pumpkin, rice, honey, and bone broth. They’re tasty, but more importantly, they’re supportive of gut health.

Ways to Include Treats in a Balanced Diet

Treats are best when they’re used with a plan. Random snacking might be fun in the moment, but over time, it can lead to too many calories or throw off a balanced diet. Here are a few smart ways to work treats into your dog’s routine:

  • As a daily supplement: For active or large-breed dogs, a small mid-day snack can provide a helpful energy boost between meals.

  • As a topper: Crumble or break a treat over your dog’s dinner to add some variety or entice a picky eater.

  • As a training tool: Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to teach new commands or reward calm behavior. A nutritious, easy-to-digest treat is perfect for this.

Keep the Big Picture in Mind

A healthy diet is about balance. Treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calories. The rest should come from complete, nutrient-rich meals—whether you feed Nextrition cold-pressed food or another high-quality option.

So yes, give your dog a treat. Celebrate the good moments. Use them to reinforce healthy habits. But also choose treats that give something back. Something that supports digestion, adds nutrition, and helps your dog feel their best every day.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or just loves a treat with real flavor, try Nextrition Tummy Treats. Healthy, gentle, and made with love.

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  • 2 min read

Kibble has been a staple in dog nutrition for decades. It’s affordable, convenient, and widely available, making it a popular choice among pet owners. However, many dogs struggle to digest kibble, often leading to issues like vomiting whole pieces, bloating, and stomach discomfort.

If you’ve ever noticed your dog throwing up undigested kibble an hour or so after mealtime, the reason could be linked to how kibble is made and its impact on digestion. Let’s break down the key reasons why kibble can be hard on a dog’s stomach.

Kibble’s Natural Enzymes are Processed Out at High-Heat

Unlike cold-pressed dog food, which is gently processed to retain nutrients, kibble is extruded using high heat and pressure. This process:

  • Denatures proteins, making them harder to digest.
  • Destroys natural enzymes, which are crucial for breaking down food.
  • Reduces nutritional value, requiring artificial additives to compensate.

When digestion is impaired, food doesn’t break down properly in the stomach, leading to vomiting, bloating, and digestive discomfort.

Kibble Contains Fillers and Byproducts

Many kibble brands contain low-quality ingredients to cut costs. These often include:

  • Grain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which some dogs struggle to digest.
  • Meat byproducts that provide low-quality and sometimes unknown protein sources.
  • Artificial additives and preservatives, which can trigger sensitivities and digestive upset.

By contrast, Nextrition cold-pressed dog food uses natural, high-quality ingredients that support better digestion and nutrient absorption.

Kibble Hard Puffed Texture is Hard to Digest

Kibble is a hard, dry food with a puffed texture, meaning that it will float in water and in your dog’s stomach. This presents challenges because:

  • Kibble will float in the stomach and bloat before it starts to get digested. This can cause discomfort leading to vomiting or digestive distress. 
  • The stomach needs to work harder to break down the food and extract the nutrients from the food. 

Cold-pressed dog food is more dense so it will sink to the bottom of the stomach, a more comfortable position, and quickly breakdown so the digestive system isn’t overworked. 

Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs Struggle with Kibble

Some dogs have food sensitivities or intolerances that make kibble even harder to digest. These dogs may experience:

  • Vomiting undigested food.
  • Diarrhea or constipation due to poor digestion.
  • Gas and bloating caused by fillers and artificial ingredients.

Because cold-pressed dog food is made with natural ingredients, lower heat processing, and no artificial ingredients, it’s often better tolerated by dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Is It Time to Switch to Cold-Pressed Dog Food?

If your dog frequently vomits undigested kibble, experiences bloating, or struggles with digestion, it might be time to consider a better alternative.

Nextrition cold-pressed dog food is:

  • Made with natural ingredients and no unnecessary fillers.
  • Processed at low temperatures to retain more natural nutrients and flavors.
  • Easier on the stomach, reducing bloating and digestive discomfort.
  • Packed with prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics to support a healthy gut and digestive system.

Switching to cold-pressed food could be the solution your dog needs for a happier, healthier digestive system. If kibble is giving your dog trouble, it might be time to make the switch!

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  • 2 min read

A dog experiencing excess gas can be an unpleasant companion to be around. Between flatulence, bloating, and discomfort, excess gas can make both you and your dog miserable. But did you know that it could be a sign of poor gut health?

Like humans, dogs thrive when their digestive system maintains a healthy balance of gut microbes. When that balance is off, digestion suffers, and one of the most common symptoms is excessive gas—often leading to bloating, discomfort, and frequent flatulence.

What Else Causes Excess Gas?

Excess gas isn't always the direct result of poor gut health. Other factors could be at play, such as:

  • Eating too fast – If your dog gulps down food quickly, they swallow excess air, which leads to more gas in the digestive tract.
  • Food intolerances – Some dogs struggle to digest dairy, fatty foods, or certain proteins, leading to fermentation in the intestines and increased gas production.
  • Medical conditions – Digestive disorders like colitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or intestinal infections can also cause excessive gas.

If your dog's gas is persistent or paired with other symptoms, it's best to consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.

Other Symptoms of Poor Gut Health

If your dog's excess gas is linked to poor gut health, you may notice additional symptoms, such as:

  • Bloating, discomfort, or abdominal pain – A swollen belly or signs of distress after meals.
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting – Irregular bowel movements or difficulty digesting food.
  • Unexpected changes in appetite – A dog refusing to eat or eating significantly more than usual.

If your dog's only symptom is flatulence, a simple diet change might be the solution. However, if multiple symptoms occur together, a trip to the vet is a good idea.

How Cold-Pressed Dog Food Can Help Excess Gas

If diet is the culprit, switching to cold-pressed dog food by Nextrition could be an easy and effective fix. Here's why:

  • Balance the Gut microbiome – Nextrition includes prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics in every recipe to help provide a healthy and diverse gut microbiome. 
  • More nutritional value – Cold-pressed food from Nextrition retains more natural vitamins and nutrients, making it easier to absorb the nutrients for overall health.
  • Easier digestion – Cold-pressed food breaks down more gently in the stomach, making it easier for dogs to process.
  • No unnecessary fillers – Many kibble brands contain fillers and artificial additives that can disrupt digestion and increase gas production. Nextrition Cold-pressed food prioritizes natural ingredients.
  • Reduces bloating – Unlike kibble, which swells in the stomach, cold-pressed dog food does not—leading to less bloating and discomfort.

Should You Switch to Cold-Pressed Dog Food?

If your dog regularly experiences excess gas, take note of any other symptoms and evaluate their diet. If bloating, flatulence, or digestive discomfort is an issue, switching to a gut-healthy, cold-pressed food could help.

If you're looking for a natural, easily digestible, and gut-friendly option, Nextrition is a great choice. Why not give it a try? Your dog's stomach—and your nose—will thank you.

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  • 2 min read

Most dogs love to eat, and some will devour anything in front of them. While treats can be a great supplement to a healthy diet, dog owners should know that even the type of treats they choose can impact their dog's gut health. That’s why we emphasize gut-healthy treats.

Like any other food, treats can have a positive or negative effect on digestion. A dog’s gut health is determined by the balance of microorganisms in their digestive system. Just like with humans, maintaining this balance is key to proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall well-being.

Small Changes Can Upset the Balance of Your Dog’s Gut

A dog's gut is filled with beneficial bacteria that help break down food and extract nutrients. However, it doesn’t take much to throw this balance off. Even minor dietary changes can disrupt digestion and lead to issues like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.

That’s why experts recommend gradually transitioning from one dog food to another. Making sudden changes can shock the digestive system. The same principle applies to treats—what seems like a small snack can significantly impact gut health, for better or worse.

Common Treat Ingredients That Can Harm Gut Health

Not all dog treats are created equal. Many commercial treats contain ingredients that can negatively affect digestion. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Fillers, Additives, and Byproducts – Some treats contain artificial preservatives, flavor enhancers, or unnecessary fillers. These don’t provide nutritional value and may disrupt gut bacteria.
  • High-Fat Treats – Dogs need some fat in their diets, but excessive fat can cause digestive issues and even lead to inflammation in the gut.
  • Highly Processed Treats – Many store-bought treats undergo heavy processing, which strips away essential nutrients and proteins. This can make digestion harder on your dog’s system.
  • Table Scraps – While it’s tempting to share food from your plate, human food is not always suitable for dogs. Table scraps are often high in sodium, fats, and seasonings that can throw off the microbiome.

Choosing Gut-Healthy Treats

If you want to support your dog's digestion, the best approach is choosing treats made with natural ingredients and minimal processing. Avoid treats that contain unnecessary fillers, byproducts, or artificial additives.

Dog treats that promote gut health are formulated with digestive-friendly ingredients that help maintain a balanced microbiome. When your dog’s gut is in balance, their overall health improves, leading to better digestion, a stronger immune system, and increased energy levels.

By being mindful of what you feed your dog—including treats—you can help them stay healthy and happy. After all, treats should nourish your pet, not just satisfy their cravings.

Our chicken and beef tummy treats are made with beneficial ingredients like sweet potato, rice and bone broth to promote a healthy gut.

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  • 2 min read

As more pet parents become aware of food allergies in dogs, we often hear this question: "Do you have chicken-free dog food?" The answer is yes! At Nextrition, we understand that not all dogs tolerate chicken well, which is why we offer nutritionally complete, chicken-free recipes that are just as delicious and nourishing.

Finding the right food for a dog with chicken allergies can be frustrating, especially with so many kibble options containing chicken or chicken byproducts. That’s why we’ve formulated three protein-rich, chicken-free recipesbeef, lamb, and salmon—so your pup can enjoy mealtime without discomfort.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Chicken Allergy

While chicken is a great protein source for many dogs, some develop allergies or sensitivities to it over time. Signs of a chicken allergy may include:

  • Digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or bloating
  • Skin reactions such as itching, redness, or hot spots
  • Ear infections that keep coming back
  • Respiratory symptoms like sneezing or excessive licking
  • Behavioral changes including lethargy or irritability

If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, switching to a single-protein, chicken-free diet may help. Your veterinarian can also recommend an elimination diet to confirm if chicken is the culprit.

The Power of the Right Ingredients

At Nextrition, we take food sensitivities seriously. That’s why we make cold-pressed, chicken-free dog food with real, high-quality proteins like beef, lamb, and salmon. Unlike traditional kibble, which is cooked at high temperatures that strip away nutrients, our low-heat process preserves flavor, nutrients, and digestibility.

Each of our recipes is:

  • Made with premium, natural ingredients
  • Formulated to support healthy digestion
  • Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
  • Free from fillers, artificial additives, and byproducts

And because our food breaks down easily in the stomach without swelling, it’s gentle on digestion—helping to reduce bloating and discomfort.

Make the Switch to Chicken-Free Dog Food

If your dog has been struggling with allergies, discomfort, or digestive upset, a chicken-free diet might be the solution. With Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food, you don’t have to sacrifice nutrition, taste, or quality—just healthier, happier mealtimes for your pup.

Check out our beef, lamb, and salmon recipes to find the perfect fit for your dog’s needs.

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  • 2 min read

When you hear "mail order," do you automatically assume lower quality? You're not alone. But not all mail order companies are the same—especially when it comes to pet food. Take Nextrition, for example. Technically, we are a mail order dog food company, but what we offer is far from ordinary.

You can order our food online and have it delivered straight to your door. We even provide free shipping on most standard orders within the continental U.S. And if you need it faster, expedited shipping is always an option. But is ordering dog food online really a good idea?

What You Get for Your Money

Some people associate mail order products with cheap, low-quality goods. But that's not the case with Nextrition. Our cold-pressed dog food is intentionally designed to be healthier and more nutritious than standard kibble.

Unlike generic, mass-produced dog food found on store shelves, Nextrition is crafted with care. Our ingredients include:

  • Real Meat as the #1 ingredient
  • Healthy Grains such as Oatmeal and Barley
  • Pumpkin and Sweet potato
  • Spinach and Blueberries plus other fruits and veggies
  • Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics

What don’t we include? Fillers, byproducts, artificial flavors, and preservatives. You get only natural, high-quality ingredients designed for good gut health and optimal nutrition.

Superior Nutritional Value

Great ingredients are the foundation of great dog food, but we go further to provide superior nutritional value. We cold press the ingredients together at 3x lower temperature than kibble, retaining more of the natural nutrients and flavors. This also creates a more nutrient-dense food so your dog needs up to 30% less per meal—giving you more value for your money.

Our secret is in the cold-pressing process:

  • Ingredients are carefully selected and portioned
  • They are combined in a low-heat process
  • Cold pressing retains natural nutrition and flavor

Traditional kibble, on the other hand, is cooked at high temperatures, which strips it of much of its nutritional value and taste.

No-Bloat Dog Food

If your dog suffers from bloating or digestive issues, this is a major plus. Unlike kibble, Nextrition does not swell in your dog's stomach. That means:

  • Less gas
  • Easier digestion
  • A reduced risk of bloating

Kibble often swells in the gut due to the manufacturing process. Since we cold-press our ingredients our food breaks down naturally, making digestion smoother for your pup.

Try Nextrition and See the Difference

If you’ve had bad mail order experiences in the past, we understand the hesitation. But Nextrition is different. We provide high-quality, natural, cold-pressed dog food—delivered straight to your door.

Put us to the test and see how we measure up. Your pup will thank you.

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  • 2 min read

If your dog frequently vomits large chunks of food, you’re not alone. This is a common concern among pet owners, and while an underlying health condition could be to blame, the issue might also be the food itself.

Dogs on a dry kibble diet are more prone to vomiting whole pieces of food, while those eating cold-pressed dog food or a well-planned raw diet are less likely to experience this issue.

What’s Really Going On When My Dog Keeps Throwing Up Kibble Whole?

If your dog regularly throws up undigested kibble, the problem often comes down to digestion difficulties. Kibble, by design, is hard and dry, making it tougher for a dog’s stomach to break down. Several factors contribute to this:

  • Fillers and byproducts – Many kibble formulas contain low-quality ingredients that don’t digest well.
  • Lack of moisture – Kibble is very dry, meaning your dog must produce more stomach acid to process it.
  • Processing methods – High-temperature cooking and extrusion reduce the food’s natural digestibility.

Because kibble expands in the stomach, it can cause discomfort, bloating, and vomiting of whole pieces when digestion doesn’t go as planned.

Is It Harmful to My Dog?

Frequent vomiting isn't immediately life-threatening, but it’s not something to ignore. Persistent issues can lead to:

  • Dehydration – Loss of fluids from frequent vomiting can impact hydration levels.
  • Malnutrition – If food isn’t digested properly, your dog won’t absorb essential nutrients.
  • Stomach irritation – Repeated vomiting can cause inflammation, making digestion even more difficult.

While food is a common culprit, there are other causes of vomiting, including:

  • Parasites or infections
  • Toxic substances or food sensitivities
  • Underlying medical conditions (e.g., pancreatitis, IBD)

If vomiting is frequent, a vet visit is essential to rule out any serious health concerns.

Is Cold-Pressed Dog Food a Solution to Dogs Throwing Up Whole Kibble?

We believe cold-pressed dog food is a better alternative to kibble, especially for dogs with sensitive digestion. Here’s why:

    • Easier digestion – Cold-pressed food breaks down faster in the stomach, reducing vomiting.
    • No swelling in the stomach – Unlike kibble, it will sink to the bottom of the stomach and won’t float or bloat like kibble.
    • Natural ingredients – Nextrition dog food is made without fillers, artificial additives, or byproducts.
    • Better nutrient absorption – Retains more essential nutrients compared to highly processed kibble.

By feeding your dog food that works with their digestive system, you can reduce vomiting episodes and improve overall health.

What Should You Do if Your Dog Throws Up Undigested Food Regularly?

If your dog frequently vomits whole pieces of food, start by:

    1. Visiting your vet – Rule out any underlying medical conditions.
    2. Considering a food switch – If kibble is the issue, try a cold-pressed alternative like Nextrition.
    3. – Observe how your dog reacts to a new diet and make adjustments accordingly.

Many dogs see significant improvement when switching from kibble to cold-pressed food. If your dog struggles with digestion, it’s worth giving Nextrition cold-pressed dog food a try. You may be surprised at the difference it makes.

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  • 2 min read

We recently introduced Tummy Treats, a special kind of dog treat designed for more than just rewarding good behavior. These gut-healthy treats support digestion and overall well-being while giving your pup a tasty reward.

Like everything under the Nextrition name, Tummy Treats are made with all-natural ingredients and minimal processing to ensure maximum health benefits. Available in chicken and beef, these treats are both delicious and beneficial for your dog's digestive system.

Natural Ingredients for Gut Health

Our Chicken Tummy Treats are made with:

  • Real Chicken as the #1 ingredient
  • Chicken broth
  • Pumpkin
  • Rice
  • Honey
  • Apple cider vinegar

Our Beef Tummy Treats have the same ingredients, with chicken and chicken broth swapped for real beef and beef broth. Each ingredient plays a role in promoting gut health, supporting digestion, and providing essential nutrients.

Why Gut Health Matters for Dogs

A dog's gut microbiome consists of bacteria and microorganisms that aid in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. A balanced microbiome ensures:

  • Efficient digestion for better nutrient absorption
  • Stronger immunity to fight off infections and inflammation
  • Reduced gastrointestinal distress, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea

An imbalanced gut, on the other hand, can lead to:

  • Poor digestion and nutrient deficiencies
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Increased susceptibility to illness

The Role of Nextrition Tummy Treats

Tummy Treats are not a replacement for your dog’s primary diet, but they can be a valuable supplement to support gut health and even help calm down an upset tummy. We recommend that treats make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

Here’s how Tummy Treats can benefit your dog:

  • Training Rewards – Use them as a positive reinforcement tool to encourage good behavior.
  • Stress Association – Help your dog associate treats with experiences like vet visits or taking medication.
  • Energy Boost – Ideal for active and working dogs who need a little extra fuel between meals.
  • Calm the Tummy – If your dog seems to have an upset tummy, these treats can help it calm down. 

Give Your Dog a Treat That Supports Health

If you regularly give your dog treats, why not choose one that supports gut health? Nextrition Tummy Treats provide a tasty, nutritious reward while helping maintain a balanced digestive system.

Try them today and see the difference in your dog’s digestion, energy, and overall well-being. A happy gut makes a happy pup!

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  • 3 min read

We have all heard the phrase 'dog breath'. Telling someone they have dog breath is not a compliment, that's for sure. But if you are a dog owner, you know the difference between dog breath and stinky breath in dogs. The latter can be magnitudes worse!

The truth about stinky breath in dogs is that it can be hard to pinpoint. It is easy to assume that it's the food you are feeding him. That could be the case, but it's not likely. When food impacts a dog's breath, the impacts are probably indirect. Most underlying causes of bad breath in dogs are related to underlying conditions.

Oral Health Problems Can Lead to Bad Breath

Dogs are a lot like humans in the sense that oral health problems can lead to stinky breath. Dogs are just as susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Plaque and tartar contribute to gum disease, which is a known cause of bad breath.

Tooth decay is another potential problem. The bacteria and other microorganisms associated with tooth decay can flourish in a dog's mouth. You could make the case that there is an indirect connection with food, at least in the sense that a diet that promotes good oral health should reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Poor Diet Can Cause Stinky Breath

Food has another indirect influence on stinky breath by way of ingredients. For instance, a diet high in fish products can cause a dog's breath to exhibit a very distinct fishy odor. The odor could be interpreted as stinky breath to someone who does not appreciate fish.

Along those same lines is stinky breath related to gastrointestinal upset. Consider a dog whose stomach doesn't digest certain kinds of food very well. The longer the food sits in the digestive tract, the more likely it is to begin fermenting. This produces gas which, in turn, can lead to bad breath.

One could also make the case that food is directly related to bad breath because it isn't being properly digested. But the effect is still indirect. It is not the food itself that contaminates the dog's breath. Rather, the problem is food-related digestive issues.

Poor Gut Health Can Cause Stinky Breath

It's impossible to talk about stinky breath in dogs without bringing up gut health. A dog's gut is related to so much of his overall health and well-being that 70% of their immune system is influenced by the gut. To explain this properly, let us start with the basics.

The digestive system, which we otherwise call the gut, naturally contains a variety of bacteria and other microbes. Good gut health stipulates all these organisms are in proper balance. They are necessary for digestion, by the way. If they get out of balance, you have the condition we call poor gut health.

Just like gut health plays a role in a dog's breath, food plays a role in maintaining good gut health. Poor gut health could mean stinky breath. Good gut health should mean 'normal' dog breath.

To the extent that your choice of food influences your dog's gut health, it can contribute to bad breath in an indirect way. A food that does not promote good gut health could actually be exacerbating the poor gut health condition. That would mean stinky breath.

Cold-Pressed Dog Food Can Help Your Dog’s Gut Health

Although food is rarely the direct cause of stinky breath in dogs, it can be indirectly related. Fortunately, the solution is easy: change the food. If your dog regularly exhibits stinky breath, consider switching from your current brand to Nextrition cold-pressed dog food

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  • 2 min read

Dogs and treats go together like cake and ice cream. If there’s a dog in your household, chances are you love giving them treats as a way to show affection. But are those treats actually healthy?

More specifically, are they gut-healthy treats? Just like with food, the treats we give our dogs should contribute to their overall health and digestion. If you’re already mindful about your dog’s diet, why not make sure their treats support their well-being too?

Why We Give Our Dogs Treats

Before diving into gut-healthy treats, let's consider why we give dogs treats in the first place. The reasons vary, but here are some of the most common:

  • Training – Treats are often used as positive reinforcement in training. When a dog associates a behavior with a reward, they are more likely to repeat it.
  • Positive Association – Treats help dogs build positive associations with new or stressful experiences, such as visiting the vet or meeting new people.
  • Bonding – Some experts believe that giving treats strengthens the human-dog bond, much like playtime and petting.

Of course, sometimes we give dogs treats just because we enjoy making them happy. Since treats are a regular part of many dogs’ diets, it’s important to choose options that promote their health.

Why Treats Should Be Healthy

Everything a dog eats has some effect on their overall health. While an occasional indulgence isn’t harmful, consistently giving low-quality treats can contribute to digestive issues, allergies, or weight gain.

Healthy treats provide benefits such as:

  • Nutritional Support – A good treat offers an extra boost of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system.
  • Digestive Health – Ingredients like sweet potato and pumpkin can aid digestion, making them great choices for dogs prone to diarrhea or constipation.
  • Allergy Prevention – Many treats contain common allergens, such as wheat, corn, or artificial additives. Choosing hypoallergenic treats with single-source proteins and quality ingredients can minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
  • Oral Health – Hard, chewable treats can help reduce tartar buildup and improve dental hygiene.
  • Mental Stimulation – Treats can be paired with puzzle toys or training exercises to provide mental enrichment and keep dogs engaged.

Dogs, like humans, thrive when they eat nutritious foods. By choosing healthy treats, you can ensure every bite contributes to their well-being.

Treat Your Pup with Gut-Healthy Treats

If you’re going to give treats, why not make them gut-healthy? A treat that supports gut health helps maintain a balanced microbiome, promoting digestion and overall wellness.

A small change—like switching to gut-healthy treats—can have a big impact on your dog's health. Whether for training, bonding, or just because, make sure the treats you give compliment the food in their bowl.

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