You've decided to treat your fur baby with the best — natural, cold-pressed dog food that's perfect for sensitive tummies. Kudos to you! Choosing food with all-natural ingredients and cold-pressing techniques is a stellar move for your pet's health. But there’s another piece of the puzzle — feeding your pup the right amount.
We've all been there— trying to figure out just how much to feed our dogs. Overfeeding or underfeeding can mess with their health, just like it does with us. A little extra here or there won’t hurt, but consistently giving too much or too little can spell trouble.
Hard to imagine your dog not eating enough, right? But it happens. Some folks might cut back on food to make their dog more motivated during training. Well-intentioned, sure, but it can lead to underfeeding. There are other reasons too, but the bottom line is, if your dog isn't eating enough, it can lead to some nasty health issues like:
Think of it like this: without enough food, your dog’s body can't function right. They don't heal as fast, their growth is stunted, and they just aren’t their vibrant selves.
On the flip side, overfeeding is more common. Who doesn’t love spoiling their pets? But overindulgence can lead to overfeeding, and that can cause:
So, how do you nail the perfect portion? Your vet is your go-to person for advice on feeding guidelines. They know your dog's health and any specific needs they have.
And don’t overlook the food chart that comes with your dog food. If you haven’t checked out our blog post on food charts, do it! It’s a great resource. Basically, these charts give you a baseline for how much to feed based on your dog's weight. Just remember, they’re brand-specific – you can’t use a chart from one brand for another.
Nextrition also offers a free personalized feeding plan on our website that is tailored specific to your pup for a more exact feeding amount.
At Nextrition, we’ve raised the bar on dog food. Our cold-pressed dog food is all-natural, gut-friendly, and packed with nutrients. Think of it as a gourmet meal for the boss of the house (yes, your dog!).
Our cold-pressed technique locks in all the goodness and flavor, ensuring your dog gets a nutrient-packed meal that’s easy on the stomach. Say goodbye to digestive issues and hello to a healthier, happier pup. Plus, it’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or common allergies.
Feeding your dog the right amount isn’t just about keeping them full – it’s about their overall health and well-being. Whether you’ve got a picky eater or a dog with dietary restrictions, Nextrition offers a balanced, nutritious option that stands out.
Join the feeding revolution with Nextrition. Because your dog deserves the best – and nothing less. By making smart choices about your dog's diet, you can help your furry friend live a healthier, happier life. Whether you’re dealing with underfeeding, overfeeding, or just looking for the best dog food out there, remember that Nextrition has your back.
Puppies are undeniably bundles of joy, but don't be fooled—they won't stay tiny forever. Their growth might sneak up on you, but their feeding needs will demand your attention as they evolve. If you want your pup to thrive, you need a feeding plan that keeps pace with their ever-changing needs. Whether you're into our unique cold-pressed dog food or sticking with traditional kibble, understanding your pup's diet is your ticket to raising a rockstar. Welcome to the guide to growing up with your pup!
Veterinarians are all about the gradual approach to feeding, no matter what kind of chow you choose. Starting with puppy-specific food is a must before transitioning to adult formulas. So, how do you navigate this wild ride? Let's steal a few tricks from the pros at the American Kennel Club (AKC).
While we're the mavericks of creating healthy, delicious dog food, we're not veterinarians or dog trainers. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, here's a quick lowdown on the AKC’s four-step feeding plan for puppies:
For the first 6-12 weeks, the AKC suggests feeding your puppy specially formulated puppy food. This stuff is jam-packed with all the nutrients a growing pup needs, much like baby formula for human infants. You can feed your puppy grub that is formulated for all life-stages starting at 6 weeks and into adulthood without the need to switch. Regular adult dog food just doesn’t cut it for puppies. Aim for four feedings a day and watch your little furball thrive.
Around the three-month mark, you can dial it back to three feedings per day. Keep an eye on your pup’s body—if they’re still a bit pudgy, stick with four feedings a little longer. The goal is to gradually reduce the number of meals as they slim down and grow into their personality.
By six months, most pups are ready for two meals a day. Spaying or neutering might lower their energy levels and food requirements. This is also the time to start thinking about switching from puppy food to adult dog food. Smaller breeds often make the leap between 6-9 months, while larger breeds might stick with puppy food until their first birthday or beyond.
Once your dog blows out that first birthday candle, they should be on two half-portions of adult dog food per day. Large breeds might need a few more months on puppy food, but generally, adult food is the way to go by this age. It's all about finding the right rhythm for your growing companion.
Getting your pup’s diet right as they grow is crucial. As you tweak portions and transition to new food, remember that ingredients are king. We believe that healthy dog food is non-negotiable, but also keep an eye on how your dog reacts to their diet. Some dogs have stomachs of steel, while others are a bit more delicate. It’s normal to experiment with a few different foods before finding the perfect match for your little troublemaker.
Growing up with your puppy is an adventure, and nailing their feeding plan is part of the wild ride. Embrace the chaos, make adjustments as needed, and always opt for nutritious, high-quality food. Your pup deserves nothing less than the best, and with a bit of attention and care, they'll grow into a healthy, happy adult dog. Ready to join the feeding revolution with our cold-pressed dog food? Let’s make every meal a celebration of health and happiness for your four-legged rebel!
While the average dog owner might not go crazy over it like a vet or pet nutritionist, food is the magic ingredient for every living creature's health, including our furry pals. It’s so important that dog trainers often use it as their secret weapon.
But what makes food such a powerful motivator? It's all about that survival instinct, baby. Let’s chew on that for a moment. And hey, if you’re on the lookout for the best in healthy dog food, gut-friendly options, or allergy-safe dry kibble, Nextrition cold-pressed dog food has got you covered.
Nextrition’s all-natural dog food is a game-changer for your pup’s gut health. We use top-notch ingredients and low-temperature cold pressing to create what we proudly consider some of the best cold-pressed dog food around.
So, why use dog food as a motivator? Some dog owners swear they’ve tried every trick in the book, yet their pups remain unmotivated. Why? Experts say dogs, driven by survival instincts, are always motivated by food. If your dog isn’t responding, it might just be because you haven’t found the right food or that they’re already content and well-fed.
Picture this: you've got a bowl of Nextrition out all day for your pup. They nibble whenever they want, and by the time you’re ready for a training session, their tummy is already full. No wonder they’re not motivated! Try setting specific meal times instead. This way, your dog will be more inclined to work for those tasty treats during training sessions.
If free feeding isn't the culprit, there could be other reasons your dog isn’t responding to food during training. Maybe the food you’re offering just isn’t exciting enough. A few pieces of dry kibble might not cut it. Your pup might be holding out for something more thrilling.
Think about the quality and type of food you’re using. Dogs, just like people, have preferences. If your pup isn’t thrilled with the dry kibble you’re offering, they might not be motivated to perform tricks or follow commands. Try using high-value treats or different types of food to see what gets your dog excited.
Distractions could also be a factor. Even if your dog wants to learn, a chaotic environment can make it tough for them to focus – food or no food. If your training area is too noisy or filled with other distractions, your dog might struggle to concentrate. Find a quiet, distraction-free space for your training sessions to help your pup focus better.
Even though dogs need food to survive, sometimes you need to get creative. Maybe your pup has a favorite toy or an activity they love. These can be just as motivating as food. Some dogs are more driven by play or praise than treats. Discover what your dog loves most and incorporate that into your training routine.
For example, if your dog goes nuts for a game of fetch, use the ball as a reward instead of treats. Or, if your dog loves belly rubs and attention, use praise and physical affection to motivate them. The key is to find what your dog responds to best and use it to your advantage.
When it comes to feeding, we always recommend Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. Make it the cornerstone of your dog's diet and supplement with special treats during training sessions. Our cold-pressed method locks in nutrients and flavors, ensuring your dog gets the best of the best. Plus, it's gut-friendly and has limited ingredients, perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or certain allergies.
Nextrition is more than just dog food; it's a movement towards better health and happier dogs. Our food is crafted with love and care, using only the finest ingredients. We believe that every dog deserves the best, and that's what we strive to provide with every batch of our cold-pressed dog food.
Dog food isn’t just a mundane part of pet ownership – it’s a crucial aspect of your dog’s health and training. Understanding the importance of food as a motivator and ensuring you’re using high-quality, nutritious options like Nextrition can make all the difference.
Join the feeding revolution with Nextrition. Because your dog deserves the best – and nothing less. By making informed choices about your dog's diet and using food wisely in training, you can help your furry friend lead a healthier, happier life. So, whether you’re dealing with a picky eater or a training challenge, remember that the right food can be a game-changer.
Embrace the power of good nutrition with Nextrition and watch your dog thrive. Together, we can make every meal a celebration of health and happiness for your four-legged friend. Ready to make the switch? Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy barks!
New to the dog parent scene? Welcome to the pack! You might've stumbled across the term "feeding chart" and wondered what all the hype is about. Think of a dog feeding chart as your ultimate cheat sheet for figuring out how much to feed your furry buddy each day. Even seasoned dog owners find them handy, especially when switching up foods or noticing changes in their dog's health or eating habits. Our cold-pressed dog food comes with its own feeding guide.
So, what’s the deal with a dog feeding chart, and why should you use one? Let’s dig in. First off, remember there’s no one-size-fits-all chart. Each manufacturer has its own version tailored to their recipes. Always stick to the chart that comes with your dog food brand.
Why bother with a feeding chart? For starters, dog food brands aren't created equal. Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is light-years ahead of the usual dry kibble. Our unique ingredients and cold-pressing process retains more of the natural nutrients and flavors that kibble burns off and is more nutrient dense than traditional kibble.
The dog food you buy should come with a feeding chart right on the packaging. Once you get the hang of it, you might not need to check the chart often. But if you switch foods, even within the same brand, always check the new chart.
Feeding charts help prevent underfeeding or overfeeding by considering your dog's weight and size. For example, an overweight dog needs fewer calories. A feeding chart guides you on the right amount to feed based on weight, helping you maintain a healthy balance.
These charts are flexible tools. By keeping an eye on your dog's weight and condition, you can adjust feeding amounts as needed. Just remember, feeding charts are general guides. Your dog might have special dietary needs not covered by the chart.
If you’re ever worried about overfeeding or underfeeding your dog, don't hesitate to consult your vet. They can provide personalized advice, whether you’re feeding Nextrition cold-pressed dog food or another top brand of dry kibble.
Ready to join the feeding revolution? Embrace the goodness of Nextrition and keep your dog's bowl brimming with the best. Because your furry friend deserves nothing less!
Doggos love treats. We can use this to train them to respond to our cues. But what if a dog is not treat-motivated? How do we effectively train them when they’re not responding to this powerful incentive?
The answer lies in understanding your furry friend's unique preferences. This includes finding alternative positive reinforcement techniques and adjusting the training approach accordingly. However, before we delve into these strategies, we must understand why your dog avoids his usual treats.
Below are some of the most common reasons your dog might not respond to treats:
Many health conditions, such as dental or digestive issues, can affect your dog’s appetite. The pain and discomfort that come along with these health problems can make it difficult for your dog to eat and enjoy their meal. This also can have them avoid treats.
In such situations, you’ll probably notice that your dog exhibits other symptoms, such as lethargy, irregular bowel movements, weight loss, and changes in behavior.
If you suspect your dog's decreased appetite is due to an underlying health condition, it's advisable to take them to a veterinarian immediately.
When dogs experience stress or anxiety, they can become more concerned about their safety. As a result, they often lose interest in eating or training. Therefore, it becomes crucial to first identify the cause of your dog’s stress, which can include anything from loud noises to environmental changes.
Address these stressors and attempt to create a safe and calm training environment to help motivate your dog to respond.
Sometimes, your dog isn’t responding to treats simply because they don’t like the taste of the treats you’re offering. You may need to keep switching to different treats and observe how your dog reacts to find their favorite treats.
If you have been offering the same treat to your dogs for a long time and they seem less motivated now, the reason can be boredom. It could mean that your dog is bored with the taste of the same treat you have been offering them. The solution is simple: experiment with different textures and flavors of treats to reignite their enthusiasm.
A dog might not respond to treats if they’re already well-fed. This usually occurs when their training sessions don’t align with their natural feeding schedule, or they’re offered treats immediately after meals. In such cases, you may want to adjust the timing of the training sessions and ensure your dog has a healthy, well-balanced diet.
Misusing or overusing treats can reduce their appeal to dogs. For example, if you’re using treats to lure your dog into doing a lot of daily activities like sitting or walking, then your dog might start to associate treats with routine tasks, which reduces their value as a special reward.
If dogs think treats are a regular part of their routine, it could make them less motivated to respond when used as training rewards.
Not all dogs share the same attention span, and especially puppies are known for their shorter attention spans. They’re easily distracted by their environment, which is filled with various sights, sounds, and smells.
Therefore, choosing a quiet and distraction-free setting for training sessions can be better to help them maintain their focus.
Dogs can be negatively associated with many daily tasks, including bathing, brushing, or nail trimming. If you have ever used treats to trick them into doing these activities, they might think the same treats are traps. They may develop a negative context with the treats, resulting in them not responding to them altogether.
How a dog will respond to treats when training can vary depending on its breed. For example, breeds like Labradors and beagles are usually highly motivated and respond well to treats. On the other hand, terriers, herders, and guardians breed dogs tend to be less food-motivated. For these breeds, you’ll likely have to find alternative methods for training.
Here are a few things you can do when your dog isn’t treat-motivated:
You don’t have to limit yourself to treat rewards while training your dog. You can also use non-food rewards and positive reinforcement techniques to engage them during training. It all comes down to your dog's preferences and understanding what motivates them.
Some of the most common alternatives you can use while training your dog include
If treats become a regular part of a dog’s daily routine, they might lose their appeal and motivation during training sessions. You can address this by getting different high-value treats reserved exclusively for training. This may help keep the treats unique and ensure their effectiveness as rewards during training sessions.
The timing of the training session may also affect its success or failure. For example, if you train your dog after their meal time, they could have low energy levels and be less motivated to respond to treats. You can adjust the training sessions to work around your dog’s meal times and other routine habits.
Dogs can be distracted easily and even experience stress by the slightest change in their environment or any unfamiliar object. Thus, it’s essential to choose their training location wisely.
It is ideal for the space to be safe, calm, and familiar so your dog doesn’t feel anxious or stressed. It should also be free of distractions so they can focus on the training session and respond to your cues appropriately.
Establish a proper routine for your dog to promote a positive response. Choose specific times and spaces for training sessions each day. Use consistent commands and cues to avoid confusion.
Remember that this predictability will help your dog thrive in training and reduce stress and distractions.
There’s a chance your dog might feel overwhelmed by the training session. It can make them less likely to respond to treats and your commands. You should consider adding positive reinforcement to make your dogs feel more confident.
If you have tried everything to motivate your dog and nothing seems to work, then you may want to consult a professional. A veterinarian or animal behaviorist can help you understand your dog’s behavior and why they aren’t responding to treats during the training.
They can even help you diagnose any underlying health problem that may impact your dog's behavior.
When your dog isn't treat-motivated, it's essential to avoid certain pitfalls, such as:
It’s often challenging to train a dog that isn’t treat-motivated. However, the most important thing is first to determine the underlying cause of why the dog isn’t responding to the reward treats. If it’s caused by a health problem, stress, or anxiety, you can seek professional help from a veterinarian.
In other situations, you can change your training approach and try different alternatives to understand what motivates your dog. You can adjust the training time and environment or incorporate high-value treats to see how your dog responds.
If the problem persists, we recommend you consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist to understand why your dog isn’t treat-motivated.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about training a dog that isn’t food-motivated:
When training a non-food-motivated dog, you should understand the underlying reasons for their lack of interest in treats. If it’s caused by a health problem, stress, or anxiety, you can seek professional help from a veterinarian.
You can also change your training approach and try alternatives like their favorite toys and verbal praises. You can adjust the training time and environment or incorporate high-value treats to understand your dog’s preferences.
There can be various reasons why a dog is not treat-motivated. It can include health issues (like dental problems and digestive discomfort), stress, taste aversion, satiety, external distractions, or a history of negative associations with the same treats.
Individual preferences and breed characteristics can also play a role in some dogs feeling less motivated by treats.
Several health problems can make a dog non-food-motivated. For example, dental issues such as tooth decay can cause pain and discomfort while eating. Even digestive issues can lead to nausea and discomfort, which affects that appetite.
In such cases, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian to identify and treat the underlying health concern.
Yes, specific strategies can be implemented to help motivate dog food. You can start by incorporating high-value treats reserved exclusively for training. Setting a proper routine and choosing specific times and space for daily training sessions is also essential.
Also, ensure the training environment is safe, calm, and distraction-free. It’ll help your dog feel less stressed and more motivated during the training session.
However, if the problem persists, we recommend you consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist to understand why your dog isn’t treat-motivated.
Pet owners usually take note of the ‘best before’ date printed on the dry dog food label. However, do you know that the actual shelf life of the food can vary depending on your storage solution?
You heard that right! Properly storing your dog’s food is essential to maintain its quality, safety, and nutritional value. This statement raises many concerns, especially “What’s the best way of storing dry dog food?” and “How long can dry dog food sit out?”
In this article, we’ll answer all these questions and guide you through adequately storing your dog food to increase its shelf life.
Dry dog food has a long shelf life, but exposure to air, moisture, and temperature fluctuations can accelerate its degradation. If you leave some kibble in your dog’s bowl, it can become rancid quickly.
Ideally, the food should be consumed in a bowl immediately. However, if you have accidentally left some food out, you should be safe to feed it to your dog within 24 hours.
Also note that the 24-hour time limit depends on various factors, such as the food's ingredients and the area's temperature and conditions. Depending on the conditions, food can stay out for a shorter or longer time than 24 hours.
Look out for the following signs if you’re unsure about whether the dry food is safe for your dog:
If you have been buying dog food for a long time, you’ll probably recognize its smell. Therefore, when the food goes bad, you should be able to tell by how the scent changes and becomes unpleasant.
Kibble loses its crunchy texture when it becomes stale. It will often turn soft and can crumble when touched.
Stale kibble can become moist, and moisture attracts mold. Mold can appear in white, gray, or green patches and poses a health risk for your dog.
Pests like ants, rats, and roaches love dog food. If left in the open, it can attract these insects and lead to a potential infestation.
Does your dog love his kibble but is suddenly turning up his nose to the food bowl? This could be a sign that there’s something wrong with the food.
Below are seven ways in which you can adequately store your dog food to extend its shelf life:
High-quality dog food comes in packaging designed to keep it fresh for a longer period of time. However, this can get messy, especially if the food doesn’t come in resealable plastic bags. Thus, the best option is to keep the food in its original packaging and put that packet in another airtight container. It’ll provide a double layer of protection.
Airtight packaging protects the food against external elements such as moisture, air, and pests. That’s why it’s recommended always to store dry dog food in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
Pet owners often refill the storage container when the pet food runs low. Remember to wash the container, especially when the food is stored in the original packaging. You should clean the container regularly, even though it may not be in direct contact with the food. It’ll help maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness.
Also, after washing the container, ensure it’s properly dry before putting the dog food pack back inside.
Dry dog food should be stored in a cool and dry place. It’s crucial because when the food is exposed to direct sunlight or heat, it will start to lose its essential nutrients and can become rancid. It can also lead to temperature fluctuations, creating a moisture-prone environment that promotes mold and bacteria growth.
Depending on your dog’s food ingredients, there can be different storage instructions. Therefore, it’s essential to read the food label properly and follow all the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Dry dog food left out should be consumed within 24 hours. Food that has been out for more than the recommended time should be discarded to ensure your dog’s safety. Additionally, it’s recommended that you properly store your dog’s dry food to maintain its freshness and nutritional integrity.
It is ideal to keep the food in its original packaging and the packet in an airtight container. Furthermore, the container must avoid heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. These simple practices will help extend the shelf life of your dog’s food and promote its overall well-being.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about storing dry dog food:
Ideally, the food should be consumed in a bowl immediately. However, if you have accidentally left some food out, you should be safe to feed it to your dog within 24 hours.
Also note that the 24-hour time limit depends on various factors, such as the food's ingredients and the area's temperature and conditions. Depending on the conditions, food can stay out for a shorter or longer time than 24 hours.
To be safe, discarding any food that has been sitting out for more than 24 hours is recommended.
Yes, dry dog food can go wrong if left out for a prolonged period. When the food comes in contact with air, moisture, and heat, it can lose essential nutrients and become rancid.
It depends on various factors, such as the ingredients in your dog food and the temperature conditions in the area. Ideally, you should avoid feeding your dog any food left out for more than 24 hours.
When the ingredients list says “salmon,” we know it contains nutritious and flavorful fish, but what if it says “salmon meal?” What does that mean? These two terms sound similar, but there are some distinctions.
This article should unravel the mystery behind "salmon meal" by exploring its composition and benefits. We’ll also discuss whether it is a safe and valuable addition to your dog's diet.
Let's dive right in.
Salmon meal is made by cooking salmon (including the meat, some skin, and bones) with high heat to remove all the moisture and water content. This process, called rendering, creates a highly concentrated and protein-rich product.
Salmon meal and salmon have a similar nutritional value but some of the natural nutrients with salmon meal are burned off during the rendering process. The result is a processed, protein-rich ingredient that can help add some health benefits to a complete diet, but shouldn’t be the primary source of protein in your dog's daily diet.
Apart from that, you can expect the following health benefits from adding salmon meal to your dog's diet:
Salmon meal is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that can positively affect your dog’s overall health. It can help give your dog healthy skin and a lustrous coat by reducing inflammation and skin allergies.
Additionally, these fatty acids can also have nourishing effects on the hair follicles, which helps reduce shedding.
Salmon meal offers anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in your dog’s body. It is especially beneficial for older dogs who may be more prone to inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or joint stiffness.
Furthermore, it can help prevent various other health complications, such as cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and autoimmune diseases.
Salmon meal is a concentrated source of protein. It contains all the essential amino acids that dogs need for various bodily functions, primarily muscle development. It also supports energy metabolism, immune function, and the repair and regeneration of multiple tissues.
Moreover, the protein in salmon meal is easily digestible, so your dog's body will easily absorb it.
After the rendering process, salmon meal still contains some essential nutrients, including vitamin A and B vitamins, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These nutrients are vital for bone health, energy metabolism, and immune system function.
In short, they help support your dog's overall well-being and promote a happy and healthy life.
Salmon meal is a popular ingredient in dog food. It is processed into a concentrated form that will burn off some of the natural nutrients but many remain to help provide health benefits, from improved skin and coat health to reduced inflammation.
However, as with any dietary changes, we recommend you consult a veterinarian to understand your dog’s nutritional requirements and how salmon meal will support their health.
If you already know that your pup will love salmon flavored dog food, we have a super gut-friendly, cold-pressed salmon dog food available for single purchases and subscriptions.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about salmon meal:
Salmon meal is made by cooking salmon (including the meat, some skin and bones) with high heat to remove all the moisture and water content. This process, known as rendering, creates a highly concentrated and protein-rich product.
Salmon meal is considered safe for dogs to eat. It has a similar nutritional value as salmon but some of the natural nutrients in salmon meal are burned off during the rendering process. The result is a processed, protein-rich ingredient that can help add some health benefits to a complete diet, but shouldn’t be the primary source of protein in your dog's daily diet.
