Using food as a reward is a common method for training dogs. It works well most of the time. But sometimes, using food – even a healthy dog food made with natural ingredients – doesn’t work as expected. So is there a way to train without food?
One of the more popular non-food training methods is the model-rival (or mirror) method. This technique relies on observational learning rather than reward-based learning. Studies show that model-rival training can be just as effective as food rewards for many tasks.
How Model-Rival Training Works
Traditional food-based training, known as operant conditioning, uses rewards to reinforce desired behaviors. For example, a dog may receive a bite of Nextrition natural dog food after completing a task. While effective, there are cases when food rewards just aren’t enough to motivate certain dogs.
This is where model-rival training shines.
The method pairs two dogs:
The rival observes the model dog performing the task and eventually becomes motivated to imitate the behavior. Unlike operant conditioning, model-rival training doesn't rely on food rewards. Instead, the reward is intrinsic: a sense of satisfaction gained by learning the task and responding to a command.
Observation Is Key
In model-rival training, dogs learn through observation and mimicry rather than through direct reinforcement. This approach eliminates the need for rewards or punishments, which are often part of operant conditioning.
For some, this makes model-rival training a more humane way to modify behaviors. The dog observes and naturally learns by watching the actions of a peer or handler.
Great for Complex Tasks
Model-rival training is especially effective for teaching more complex tasks, such as retrieval selection or identifying specific objects. Observational learning allows dogs to better understand the connection between actions, commands, and the satisfaction of completing the task successfully.
Interestingly, competition may also play a role. While dogs are naturally pack animals, there’s still a sense of hierarchy and competition within any group. Watching another dog successfully complete a task can motivate the rival dog to do the same.
Human Models Work, Too
Model-rival training doesn’t always require another dog. A human can act as the model, making this method practical for dog owners at home. Acting as the model allows you to strengthen the bond with your dog while teaching new behaviors.
Another Training Option
At the end of the day, model-rival training is simply another option for teaching dogs. It isn’t necessarily better or worse than food-based methods. Every dog is different, and certain training methods can work better in specific situations.
If food-based training works for you and your dog, that’s great! But if your furry friend isn’t responding to food rewards, model-rival training might be worth a try.
Nextrition Supports Healthy Training
Whether you choose food-based training or non-food methods, it’s important to keep your dog’s nutrition a top priority. Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is packed with natural ingredients, offering great flavor, high nutritional value, and a gentle option for sensitive stomachs.
If you use food as a training reward, Nextrition is an excellent choice. And if you prefer methods like model-rival training, rest easy knowing your dog is still getting the best nutrition at mealtime.
If you are like most people, you have probably wondered how dog food manufacturers can get away with claiming their food is delicious. After all, dogs can't exactly offer food reviews. But it turns out they don't have to. When it comes to taste, it's more about smell for dogs.
1,700 Taste Buds vs. 9,000
An analysis of your dog's tongue would reveal roughly 1,700 taste buds. That may sound impressive, but compared to humans—who have about 9,000 taste buds—dogs have a far less sophisticated sense of taste.
Where dogs win is in their sense of smell. A dog can smell up to 100,000 times better than a human. Their exceptional noses can detect scents we can't even imagine.
Interestingly, dogs also have a special organ along their palette called the vomeronasal organ, which allows them to "smell taste." For dogs, smelling food and tasting it are closely intertwined, which explains why aroma plays such a big role in their enjoyment of meals.
Why Dogs Love the Garbage Can
To humans, garbage is just that—garbage. It smells foul, and we want nothing to do with it. But dogs experience the world differently.
When your dog picks up odors from the garbage, he’s essentially tasting with his nose. To him, anything that smells interesting (even if we find it repulsive) must also taste good. This is why dogs will happily scavenge through trash cans, countertops, or leftovers.
For dogs, smell determines taste, which is why enticing aromas are key to creating a food they’ll love.
Cooking Methods Impact Flavor
The way dog food is processed and cooked significantly affects its flavor and aroma. For example:
At Nextrition, we combine real meats, healthy grains, fruits, and vegetables with our gentle cold-pressing process to retain maximum flavor and nutrition. The result? A food that smells amazing to your dog—and tastes great too!
Taste Is All About the Nose
For dogs, taste and smell go hand in hand. If food smells good, your dog will most likely think it tastes good too. That’s why feeding a high-quality food like Nextrition cold-pressed dog food, with its natural ingredients and rich aroma, can make all the difference—especially for picky eaters.
Next time you wonder if your dog’s food is really delicious, trust his nose. If he’s eager at mealtime and licking his bowl clean, that’s all the review you need!
With Christmas just around the corner, holiday decorations are on everyone's mind. One décor item making a surprising resurgence is tinsel. While its shimmering allure might add extra holiday sparkle, tinsel is one of the most dangerous holiday decorations for dogs. If you plan to use it, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect your furry friend.
The Glittery Comeback of Tinsel
Tinsel was all the rage in the 1970s and 80s but gradually fell out of favor in the following decades. Fast-forward to today, and tinsel is back in vogue, giving Christmas trees that nostalgic glimmer. However, what makes tinsel so appealing to humans—its shiny, eye-catching design—is the very thing that can make it a hazard for pets.
Why Tinsel Is Dangerous for Dogs
Tinsel is typically made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of shiny plastic. While it may look harmless, ingesting tinsel can lead to serious health issues for your dog:
Intestinal Obstruction: Tinsel doesn’t break down in the digestive tract, meaning it can clump together and cause dangerous blockages. Severe cases often require surgical intervention.
Toxicity Risks: While PVC itself isn’t inherently toxic, some tinsel is coated with chemicals that could pose a risk if ingested.
Gastrointestinal Distress: Even if your dog doesn’t suffer a blockage, ingesting tinsel can cause discomfort, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
Avoiding these risks is as simple as keeping tinsel out of your dog’s reach—or avoiding it altogether.
Why Dogs Are Drawn to Tinsel
Dogs are naturally curious. Tinsel’s glittering strands can catch their eye, tempting them to investigate. Like many items they explore, dogs often use their mouths to assess new objects. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads to swallowing items that should never be ingested.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe
If you love the sparkle of tinsel, there are ways to use it while minimizing risk to your dog. Here are some tips:
Opt for Alternatives: Choose safer decorations like ribbon garlands, paper chains, or fabric ornaments instead of tinsel.
Create a Barrier: Use a pet gate or other barrier to keep your dog away from the Christmas tree.
Supervise Closely: Keep a watchful eye on your dog when they are near the tree, especially if tinsel is within reach.
Educate the Family: Make sure everyone in the household understands the risks of tinsel and knows to keep an eye out for loose strands.
Clean Up Regularly: Regularly check the area for fallen tinsel and remove it immediately.
A Healthier Alternative: Nutritious Dog Food
While your dog might be intrigued by holiday décor, their focus should remain on safe, nutritious food. Providing a high-quality diet—like Nextrition cold-pressed dog food—ensures they stay healthy and happy during the holiday season.
As tinsel makes its glittery comeback, remember to prioritize your pet’s safety. With a little planning and vigilance, you can ensure your dog enjoys the holidays without any unwanted mishaps.
For many dog owners, a food bowl is just a simple necessity—until your dog starts moving it around at mealtime. If your dog has turned this into a habit, it can be a source of frustration and mess. But don’t worry! There are practical ways to address this behavior and create a more peaceful mealtime routine.
Here are some tips to help you get your dog to stop moving her food bowl around:
1. Invest in a New Bowl
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. If your dog’s current bowl is lightweight or slippery, she might move it to find a more secure spot—or just because it’s fun to play with.
Try switching to a heavier bowl or one with a non-slip bottom.
Consider bowls made of materials like stainless steel or ceramic, which tend to stay in place better.
If noise is part of the appeal, a bowl with a rubberized bottom will muffle the sound and reduce the incentive to move it around.
2. Find a Distraction-Free Space
Dogs sometimes move their bowls out of insecurity or distraction. If your dog feels her feeding area is too busy or exposed, she might instinctively move her food to a “safer” spot.
Relocate her feeding area to a quieter, distraction-free space.
Position the bowl in a corner, which can limit her ability to move it while also creating a sense of security.
3. Elevate the Bowl
If your dog struggles to comfortably eat from a floor-level bowl, she may nudge or push it as she tries to adjust her position. Elevating the bowl can make eating more comfortable.
Use a slightly raised feeding station or place the bowl on a stable surface at a height that matches your dog’s size.
Elevated bowls can also prevent gulping, which is particularly helpful for dogs with digestive issues.
4. Check Food Portions
Dogs sometimes move their bowls as a way of signaling they want more food. It might be worth revisiting the portion sizes you’re providing.
Follow the feeding guidelines provided on your dog food packaging, like those included with Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. These guidelines offer portion recommendations based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
If you’re confident your dog is getting the right amount but she still seems unsatisfied, consult your vet. They can assess whether your dog’s nutritional needs are being met and rule out any underlying issues.
5. Observe and Address Behavioral Triggers
Dogs can develop quirky habits for a variety of reasons—boredom, anxiety, or even as a way to get your attention.
Pay attention to what’s happening during mealtime. Are there loud noises, other pets, or children nearby that could be triggering the behavior?
If you suspect boredom, adding mental stimulation like interactive toys or mealtime puzzles could help.
Final Thoughts
Switching to a healthy,
nutritious dog food like Nextrition is a great step toward improving your dog’s overall well-being, but it won’t necessarily stop her from moving her food bowl. By trying these tips, you can address the root causes of the behavior and create a calmer feeding environment for both you and your dog.
With a little patience and observation, you’ll likely find a solution that works—and your dog will appreciate the effort!
At Nextrition, we’re all about healthy dog food and the belief that what we feed our dogs directly impacts their overall health and quality of life. With that in mind, we’re intrigued by questions about canine diets. One that comes up often is: are eggs safe for dogs to eat?
The answer is yes—eggs can be a healthy option for dogs. But as with any addition to a dog’s diet, there are a few caveats. Eggs can be a great supplement, but they shouldn’t replace a well-rounded and balanced diet.
Eggs as a Food Supplement
Think of eggs as a dietary bonus for your dog, not the main event. While they’re packed with nutrients, they’re best served as occasional treats rather than forming the majority of your dog’s meals. Here’s why eggs can be beneficial for dogs:
Rich in nutrients: Eggs are loaded with amino acids, fatty acids, and high-quality protein.
Support coat and skin health: They contain vitamins and minerals that promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Appealing for picky eaters: Their flavor and texture can entice dogs who might be fussy about their regular food.
However, there are some important guidelines to follow. Raw eggs are a no-go due to the risk of salmonella and the potential for biotin deficiency. Always cook eggs thoroughly before serving them to your dog. And skip the salt, butter, or other add-ons—plain is best.
If your dog hasn’t had eggs before, introduce them slowly and watch for any adverse reactions. Some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies that only become apparent after trying something new.
Focus on a Balanced Diet
Treats like eggs are fine in moderation, but your dog’s daily meals should prioritize a balanced and nutritious diet. Just like us, a dog’s overall health—from energy levels to coat condition—is shaped by what they eat.
A healthy diet should include:
High-quality protein to build and maintain muscle.
Fiber for healthy digestion.
Vitamins and minerals to support all body functions.
Plenty of hydration to keep everything running smoothly.
We recommend cold-pressed dog food made with natural ingredients. Unlike traditional kibble, cold-pressed dog food retains more of its nutritional value and flavor, making it a more satisfying and beneficial option for your dog. Nextrition’s formulas are designed with your dog’s health in mind—take a look at the ingredients and benefits on our website.
Your Dog Will Thank You
Providing a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your dog and many quality dog foods will already contain eggs. So go ahead and offer eggs as an occasional treat—they’re safe, nutritious, and your dog will likely love them. Just make sure they’re part of a bigger picture that includes a balanced diet, like Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food.
Eggs in moderation, paired with high-quality dog food, can make for a happy and healthy canine companion. And while your dog may not say “thank you” in words, their wagging tail and affectionate snuggles will let you know you’re doing it right.
Diverticulitis is a condition most commonly associated with human adults, but did you know dogs can develop it too? Although rare, canine diverticulitis can be painful and uncomfortable for your furry friend. The good news is that dietary modifications can play a big role in promoting healing and preventing future flare-ups.
For dogs with diverticulitis, a fiber-rich diet combined with gut-healthy food designed for sensitive stomachs can make a significant difference. Let’s dive into what diverticulitis is, what causes it, and how dietary changes can help.
Inflammation of the Diverticula
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches, known as diverticula, form along the intestinal wall and become inflamed. In humans, these pouches typically form in the large intestine, but in dogs, the location can vary. When inflammation sets in, symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea or constipation, and a loss of appetite often follow. In severe cases, the diverticula can become infected, though this is rare.
Causes of Diverticulitis in Dogs
The causes of diverticulitis in dogs are similar to those in humans. Lack of dietary fiber is a primary factor. Dogs on a diet of traditional kibble may not be getting enough fiber, increasing their risk of developing this condition. Switching to a fiber-rich, cold-pressed dog food can provide the nutrition they need without the need for additional supplements.
Other potential causes include:
Chronic constipation
Excessive roughage in the diet
Trapped intestinal gas
Seeds or food particles lodged in the intestines
Impacted fecal matter in the colon
When the diverticula become inflamed, the intestines lose their efficiency. Dogs may experience discomfort, nausea, and difficulty eating. These symptoms are not only distressing for the dog but also concerning for their owners.
Dietary Modifications for Recovery and Prevention
Following a diagnosis of diverticulitis, veterinarians often recommend starting with soft, bland foods that are easy to digest. This gentle approach gives the intestines time to heal without additional stress. Gradually reintroducing regular food helps prevent further irritation.
Long-term prevention relies on:
A fiber-rich diet of soluble and insoluble fiber to promote regular bowel movements
Adequate hydration to keep the intestines functioning smoothly
Regular exercise to support healthy digestion
A high-fiber diet is just as essential for dogs as it is for humans. A healthy balance of soluble and insoluble fiber keeps the digestive system moving, reducing the risk of food or waste getting stuck and causing inflammation.
Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Some dogs can develop long-term food sensitivities following an episode of diverticulitis. For these dogs, switching to a dog food designed for sensitive stomachs is crucial. Nextrition dog food is an excellent option. Made with natural ingredients and prepared using a cold-pressed method, it retains its natural flavor and nutritional value while being gentle on the stomach. Its soluble and insoluble fiber content and nutrient-dense formula make it a great choice for dogs recovering from diverticulitis or dealing with ongoing digestive sensitivities.
While diverticulitis is rare in dogs, it’s important to take proactive steps if your pet is diagnosed. Dietary modifications, exercise, and proper hydration can aid recovery and reduce the risk of future episodes. If you’re looking for a dog food that supports gut health and sensitive stomachs, consider giving Nextrition a try—it could make all the difference for your furry friend.
You may have come across manufacturers claiming to make dog food "designed for good gut health." At Nextrition, we prioritize creating dog food that promotes good gut health thanks to our carefully selected ingredients and cold-pressed manufacturing process. This type of dog food is especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eating habits.
But what exactly does "gut-healthy dog food" mean? How is it made, and why is it good for your dog's digestive system? Let’s break it down.
The Principle Behind Gut Health
When we talk about gut health—whether in dogs or humans—we’re referring to the digestive system, which includes the stomach and intestines. The gut is home to an ecosystem of bacteria, including good bacteria that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Good gut health means maintaining the right balance of good and diverse bacteria. When this balance is optimal, a dog’s digestive system works efficiently, maximizing the nutritional value of food and ensuring smooth digestion.
However, many factors can disrupt gut balance. Most pet parents have experienced temporary digestive discomfort with their pup from transitioning to a new diet or giving them too many treats. Longer term issues can be caused by an overgrowth of bad bacteria that can lead to persistent digestive discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, or sensitivity to certain foods. A gut-healthy diet aims to restore and maintain this balance.
What Makes a Dog Food Gut-Healthy?
Creating a gut-healthy dog food involves careful attention to ingredients and formulations. Here are four key components that promote good gut health:
High-Quality Protein: Dogs need protein for energy and overall health, but it’s also crucial for digestion. High-quality, easily digestible proteins are essential in gut-healthy food. Be sure to look for real meat and not protein sources from meat by-products or processed vegetable protein.
Fiber: Fiber supports digestion and healthy stool formation. Healthy grains, sweat potatoes, and other fiber-rich ingredients are often included in gut-healthy recipes.
Prebiotics: These ingredients encourage the growth of good gut bacteria. Prebiotics like chicory root nourish the bacteria that keep your dog’s gut in balance.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria added to food to support digestion and immune function. These can also increase the diversity of the gut microbiome for a better balance of good bacteria.
In addition to these key components, gut-healthy dog food often limits certain ingredients that can upset digestion, such as excessive fats or artificial additives. Balancing soluble and insoluble fibers is also essential to ensure smooth digestion.
Why Gut Health Matters for Dogs
A gut-healthy diet doesn’t just improve digestion—it has a ripple effect on your dog’s overall health. A well-balanced gut microbiome supports:
Digestive comfort by reducing gastrointestinal distress like bloating or diarrhea.
Nutrient absorption for better overall health.
A strong immune system, as 70% of the immune system is impacted by a healthy gut.
Healthy stool formation, making clean-up easier in the yard.
Is Gut-Healthy Dog Food Right for Your Pet?
If your dog shows signs of a sensitive stomach, frequent gastrointestinal upset, or is a picky eater, switching to gut-healthy dog food may be beneficial. At Nextrition, our cold-pressed dog food is crafted to support gut health with high-quality ingredients and a cold-pressed process that preserves natural flavors and nutrients.
Why Choose Nextrition?
Nextrition dog food is:
Nutrient-rich: Made with all-natural ingredients using real meat as the #1 ingredient, healthy grains, fruits and vegetables. Pressed at 3x lower temperatures than traditional kibble so it retains more of the natural nutrients that kibble burns off.
Gentle on the stomach: Each ingredient was selected to be easily digestible and increase a healthy gut microbiome. It breaks down easily in the gut so the digestive system doesn’t need to work as hard to get the natural nutrients from the food. Ideal for dogs with sensitive digestion.
Flavorful and aromatic: A great option for picky eaters.
Promoting good gut health is key to helping your dog lead a healthy, happy life. If you’re ready to explore the benefits of gut-healthy dog food, give Nextrition a try. Your furry friend deserves the best!
You do everything you can to give your dog the best—high-quality, natural dog food, a solid feeding routine, and plenty of love. But every so often, you notice your furry friend has developed a quirky eating habit. What’s the deal?
Dogs, like humans, each have their own personality. And sometimes, that personality comes with some pretty interesting mealtime behaviors. In most cases, these quirks are harmless. But occasionally, they can tell you something about your dog’s physical health or emotional state.
Here are five of the quirkiest eating habits we’ve seen in dogs—and what they might mean:
Does your dog prefer to eat from the floor instead of their bowl? Maybe they pick up a few pieces of food, drop them on the ground, and eat one at a time. It might seem strange, but there are a few possible reasons for this behavior:
Your dog might not like their bowl—it could be the smell, the way it moves, or even the noise it makes.
Some dogs prefer the floor because it feels more natural to them, mimicking how wild dogs might eat.
If this habit isn’t causing any issues, it’s usually nothing to worry about. But if it’s creating a mess or your dog seems anxious, you might want to experiment with a different bowl or feeding setup.
Some dogs approach mealtime with a bit of nervous energy. They might seem hesitant or even fearful while eating. Why does this happen?
Tags clinking against a metal bowl can create a noise that some dogs find unsettling.
Reflections in shiny bowls might confuse or spook your dog.
Eating can put them in a vulnerable state and your dog may want to ensure everything is safe before starting to eat.
Switching to a quieter, non-reflective bowl or removing tags during meals can help. A calm, quiet feeding environment can also make a big difference.
Even if you’re feeding your dog a nutritious, balanced diet, you might catch them snacking on dirt. A little dirt now and then isn’t unusual, but frequent dirt-eating could be a sign of something else:
Nutritional Deficiency: Dirt contains minerals that your dog might instinctively seek out if they’re missing something in their diet.
Curiosity: Some dogs just like to explore the world with their mouths.
If it happens occasionally, it’s probably no big deal. But if dirt-eating becomes a regular habit, it’s worth checking with your vet to rule out any underlying issues.
As gross as it sounds, eating feces (also known as coprophagia) is surprisingly common—especially in puppies. While it’s not the most charming habit, there are a few possible explanations:
Nutritional Deficiency: Just like with dirt, your dog might be trying to make up for something missing in their diet.
Curiosity: Puppies, in particular, use their mouths to explore the world around them.
Stress or Anxiety: Dogs under stress might develop this habit as a coping mechanism.
To discourage this behavior, ensure your dog is getting plenty of nutrition from their food and provide mental stimulation through toys, training, and playtime.
Does your dog have a specific ritual before they’ll eat? Maybe they wait for you to sit in your favorite chair or insist on a certain routine before starting their meal. Ritualistic eating habits are usually tied to one of two things:
Insecurity: Some dogs feel more comfortable eating when their owner is nearby.
Affection: Rituals can be a way for your dog to include you in their mealtime.
If your dog’s rituals aren’t disruptive, they’re typically harmless. But if they seem tied to anxiety, it may help to establish a more structured feeding routine to build confidence.
Most quirky eating habits are just that—quirks. But if your dog’s behavior changes suddenly or seems to be linked to health or emotional issues, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet.
And if you’re looking for a food that picky eaters and dogs with sensitive stomachs will love, Nextrition cold-pressed dog food could be the answer. Packed with natural flavors and nutrients, it’s designed to make mealtime enjoyable while supporting your dog’s overall health.
Dogs are full of personality, and their eating habits often reflect that. Whether it’s eating off the floor or waiting for you to sit down, these quirks are part of what makes them special. As long as your pup is happy and healthy, there’s no harm in a little mealtime individuality!
Most veterinarians recommend sticking to a feeding schedule for dogs. While free-choice feeding can work in specific situations, it’s usually not the best approach. That said, even scheduled feedings can come with challenges—especially if your dog gets distracted during meals.
Dogs can get sidetracked whether they’re eating dry kibble, cold-pressed food, or raw ingredients. The type of food usually isn’t the issue. So, what’s causing the distractions, and how can you help your dog stay focused at mealtime?
The first step in reducing mealtime distractions is to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Whether you’re feeding Nextrition cold-pressed dog food or another option, consistency is key to keeping your dog focused.
Vets typically recommend feeding adult dogs twice a day, spaced about 12 hours apart. If your schedule only allows for 10-11 hours between feedings, that’s fine—just try to be as consistent as possible. Sticking to a routine helps your dog associate certain times with food, making them more likely to focus at mealtime.
A helpful tip: if your dog doesn’t finish their food within 15-20 minutes, remove the bowl. This teaches them that food is available only for a limited time, encouraging them to eat when it’s offered instead of wandering off.
Some dogs get distracted by their surroundings. If you think your dog’s environment might be the issue, try setting up a designated eating space away from high-traffic areas. Keep them separated from other pets and young children during meals to reduce competition and interruptions.
If noises from outside seem to pull your dog’s attention, consider feeding them in an interior room where sounds are muffled. Using the same feeding space every day helps your dog get into a rhythm—they’ll start to understand that when they’re in that space, it’s time to eat.
While a consistent routine and designated space may solve the issue for some dogs, others might need a little extra help through training. If your dog continues to struggle with distractions, try these training techniques:
Every dog is different, so feel free to experiment with other training methods that work best for your pet. If you’re not sure where to start, your vet may have specific tips based on your dog’s behavior and personality.
At Nextrition, our goal is to create a nutritious, flavorful cold-pressed dog food that dogs want to eat. A healthy, appealing food can make all the difference—especially for picky eaters or dogs who tend to get distracted at mealtime.
If distractions are still a problem, it might help to try a food that’s easy on your dog’s stomach and packed with flavors they love. Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is designed to be both nutritious and appetizing, giving your dog more reasons to stay focused when it’s time to eat. Plus, Nextrition cold-pressed dog food is more nutrient dense than traditional kibble so you can feed up to 30% less meaning they will take 30% fewer bites to get the same number of nutrients.
With the right combination of routine, environment, and training, most dogs will learn to focus during meals. And with a food like Nextrition that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, you can feel confident that every meal is supporting your dog’s health and happiness.
One of the perks of making healthy dog food is that we get to answer some interesting questions from dog owners. One question we hear a lot is: “Is there a best time of day to feed my dog?” The answer is both yes and no. We’re not trying to dodge the question—there’s just a little nuance to it. Let us explain.
Yes, there is a “best” time in the sense that you should pick a feeding schedule and stick with it. But no, there’s no universal rule that says all dogs need to eat at 8:00 am sharp. The best time to feed your dog depends on their routine and needs. Once you figure out what works, consistency is key.
Let’s talk about feeding schedules. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines—if your dog has unique health concerns, your vet can help you develop the right plan.
Most vets recommend feeding adult dogs twice a day, ideally spaced about 12 hours apart. For example, if you feed your dog at 6:00 am before heading to work, aim for the second meal around 6:00 pm.
You don’t need to be precise down to the minute. Life happens, and it’s okay if feedings are off by an hour or so. What matters more than exact timing is sticking to a consistent routine.
Feeding twice a day helps maintain dietary stability. It can also prevent issues like nausea, bloating, or your dog scarfing down food too quickly because they’ve gone too long without eating.
While two meals a day works for adult dogs, puppies need to eat more frequently—just like human babies do. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Try to space meals evenly to keep your puppy’s digestion stable. For example, if you’re feeding four times a day, aim for every 4 hours during the day, with a break for sleep at night.
The same goes for senior dogs, nursing mothers, and highly active dogs—they may need more frequent feedings too. If you’re unsure, your vet can recommend the best schedule based on your dog’s needs.
Some dog owners leave food out all the time, a practice known as free-choice feeding. While it works for some dogs, veterinarians generally recommend avoiding this method. Leaving food out all the time can encourage overeating, which can lead to weight gain and health problems over time.
If your dog prefers to graze throughout the day, try portioning out their food and offering it at set times. This way, you can maintain control over their intake while still giving them flexibility.
Feeding your dog isn’t just about keeping their belly full. It’s also about making sure they’re getting the right nutrition on a reliable schedule that works for both of you. Choosing a healthy, easily digestible food—like Nextrition—is one way to support your dog’s well-being.
Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is packed with natural ingredients that promote good gut health, and it’s designed to be appealing even for picky eaters. When you combine a consistent feeding schedule with nutritious food, you’re giving your dog the best chance to stay healthy, happy, and energized.
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the “best time to feed your dog.” But with a bit of trial and error—and some help from your vet—you'll be able to find a schedule that works for your furry friend. Stick to that routine, and pair it with a quality food like Nextrition, and you’ll be on the right track to keeping your dog in great shape.
At Nextrition, one of the things we love to highlight is how well our cold-pressed dog food supports healthy digestion. It's a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and it works wonders for picky eaters too. Why? Because cold pressing creates food that works with your dog’s digestive system—not against it
.
Before we dive into the digestion benefits, let’s cover the basics of cold pressing. Cold-pressed dog food starts with natural, high-quality ingredients chosen to meet a dog’s nutritional needs. These ingredients are mixed and then pressed together without high heat or steam for a few seconds using our patent pending process.
The pressing process helps preserve the natural flavors, nutrients, live probiotics and enzymes that would normally be lost in high-temperature cooking.
One of the biggest digestion benefits of cold-pressed dog food is how it breaks down in the stomach. Rather than swelling inside the stomach, like traditional kibble sometimes does, cold-pressed food breaks down gradually from the outside in.
Because it doesn’t expand in the stomach, it’s less likely to cause bloating—making it a great choice for dogs with digestive issues. Mealtime becomes a more comfortable experience for your dog, reducing the risk of post-meal discomfort and helping them feel fuller longer.
Here are some of the key ways cold-pressed food supports digestion:
Just like humans, dogs digest natural, minimally processed ingredients more efficiently. That’s exactly what cold-pressed dog food offers.
When your dog’s food is easy to digest, it benefits more than just the digestive system—it promotes overall health. You’ve probably heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” Well, the same goes for dogs.
A dog’s health depends not just on what they eat, but on how well their body absorbs nutrients from that food. If their digestive system struggles, even the healthiest food won’t provide the nutrition they need.
Cold-pressed food offers higher nutritional value per cup compared to traditional kibble. And since it’s more digestible, those nutrients are absorbed more effectively. The result? Less digestive discomfort, healthier stools, and better access to the building blocks needed for long-term health.
We know you have plenty of options when choosing what to feed your dog. Between dry kibble, wet food, raw diets, and everything in between, it can feel overwhelming. But we encourage you to consider giving cold-pressed dog food a try.
With Nextrition, you get the best of both worlds. Our food offers the high nutritional value of a raw diet with the convenience of dry kibble. And because it’s easier to digest, it’s a perfect fit for dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eating habits.
So why not give your dog a food that works with their digestion, not against it? We believe Nextrition will make mealtime enjoyable again—while giving your dog the nutrition they need to thrive.
We may not think about dogs being overweight—it’s more of a human problem, right? After all, animals in the wild seem to manage their weight just fine. But domesticated pets? That’s a different story. Dogs can definitely be overweight—but it’s not inevitable. That’s one of the reasons we’re so passionate about creating healthy dog food like Nextrition.
In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 50% of domesticated dogs in North America are overweight. If your dog is carrying around 10-20% more than their ideal weight, they’re considered overweight. Anything above 20%? That’s considered obese.
Why It Matters
Feeding your dog a healthy diet in the right portions is one of the most important ways you can help them maintain a healthy weight. But does it really matter if your dog carries a little extra weight? Absolutely. Just like with people, being overweight can cause serious health problems in dogs—starting with heart disease.
Excess weight adds stress to your dog’s cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart disease. It can also lead to high blood pressure (hypertension), which makes the heart work harder than it should.
Some other health issues linked to excess weight in dogs include:
While there’s no concrete proof that obesity causes cancer, studies show that overweight dogs are more likely to develop certain types of cancer.
On top of all that, excess weight affects your dog’s quality of life. We all want our pets to live happy, healthy lives—so keeping their weight in check is a simple way to help them thrive.
What You Can Do to Help Your Dog
If you suspect your dog is overweight, the first step is to schedule a vet appointment. Your vet can assess your dog’s health and let you know if they need to shed some pounds. If your dog does need to slim down, here’s how you can help:
Once your dog reaches a healthy weight, it’s important to stick to good habits. Avoid falling back into old routines that may have contributed to weight gain. A consistent, healthy lifestyle will help your dog maintain their ideal weight for the long haul.
The Nextrition Difference
Nextrition cold-pressed dog food is an excellent choice for most dogs. Our natural, nutrient-dense formula is easy on the stomach and packed with the nutrition your dog needs to stay healthy and active. Plus, it’s designed with optimal gut health in mind—perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes.
Have questions about Nextrition? We’d love to help. Reach out anytime to learn more about how our food can support your dog’s health and well-being.
