Best High-Fiber Dog Food for Anal Gland Problems

 

Top Rated High-Fiber Food for Anal Gland Problems for Dogs List in 2023 + Buying Guide

 

If you’re looking for the best high-fiber dog food for anal gland problems to make the life of your precious companion easier, you have come to the right place. We know that it is difficult to make a good choice, which is why we have spent a lot of time looking at what the market has to offer. After extensive research, we have concluded that the option that you should get is the Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food. This food is made with natural ingredients that pack all the essential nutrients that your pet requires to stay healthy and active. This option is formulated to be highly digestible, and it will support a balanced gut microbiome for easier stool pick up. The delicious taste and look of each morsel are achieved without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. If our first pick is not available, a very good alternative can be found in the Blue Buffalo Wilderness.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

11 Best High-Fiber Dog Foods for Anal Gland Problems (Reviews) in 2023

 

 

Although there are countless good dog foods available on the market, we considered only some of them to be worthy of your attention. These received the highest score based on customers’ reviews and, in our opinion, provide the necessary ingredients for your dog’s healthy growth. Showcased below you’ll find these amazing foods, along with their main characteristics.

 

 

1. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food 

 

You can’t go wrong with Hill’s Science food since this brand is known for the quality and care it puts in each of its products, and this option is no exception. It provides all the precise nutrition that dogs require to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. To achieve this, the brand uses only natural ingredients that are both tasty and healthy.

This dry food is made for adult dogs that have sensitive stomachs and skin. The ingredients used for this formula have another thing in common; they are all formulated to be highly digestible so that sensitive dogs no longer need to suffer after eating their favorite meal.

What’s more, the food is packed with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which will improve the look of your pet’s skin and coat. This is a complete diet, which means that your dog will get all the nutrients and minerals required for healthy development, so you won’t have to rely on costly supplements.

 

 

 

2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain Free Dry Dog Food

 

What we liked the most about this food is the variety of delicious flavors you can choose from. Your dog will be equally pleased to try a new recipe each day, whether it’s chicken, duck or salmon.

The product is delivered in three different bag sizes, from 4.5 pounds to 24 pounds, so make sure to choose the best option for your pocket and your dog’s needs.

Meat is the number one ingredient in this Blue Buffalo food, so you can expect high-quality deboned chicken and fish meals to ensure your dog’s necessary intake of vitamins, proteins, and minerals. Combined with a series of fresh fruits and veggies, the blend becomes not only delicious but also as healthy as possible.

Enhanced with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, it will provide a healthy skin and a shiny coat for your pup. The food doesn’t contain any meat by-products, corn, wheat or artificial flavors and preservatives.

 

 

 

3. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Grain Free

 

If you’re looking for a healthy meal to offer to your pet, perhaps this item from Earthborn Holistic would be a good choice. It is made with real herring, salmon, and whitefish meals and enhanced with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support your dog’s immune system, improve its vision, provide a luscious coat and a healthy skin and alongside tick killers for outside dogs it will help you take proper care of your furry friend.

The food is grain-free and gluten-free so that it can be consumed by dogs of all breeds, including by sensitive individuals. The product is specifically designed to provide a complete nutrition for your pet, supporting the digestive system. It is rich in natural veggies and fruits so you can make sure your dog only receives quality ingredients.

Also, the food is delivered in a BPA-free package that is 100% recyclable. Therefore, by purchasing this product, you will also contribute to a healthier environment.

 

 

 

4. Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein

 

In search of a new food perfect for all life stages of your dog? This one from Taste of the Wild is suitable for puppies and adults alike and is available in delicious flavors such as venison and bison, salmon, lamb or roasted duck.

Real meat is the number one ingredient in this food so you should expect high-quality proteins. You can also find real smoked salmon that provides a high amount of amino acids and proteins, perfect for delivering strong muscles and a healthy immune system.

The product is enriched with natural fruits and veggies that are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants. Therefore, your puppy will benefit from strong bones, a shiny coat, and a healthy digestive system.

All the ingredients included in this food blend are easily digestible and come from trustworthy sources. The product doesn’t contain artificial flavors or colors, preservatives, corn, wheat or grains.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

5. CANIDAE PURE Real Salmon Grain Free Premium Dry Food 

 

This option is made with eight real key food ingredients that help deliver complete and balanced nutrition for your pet. It is a grain-free dry food, which makes it perfect for dogs that have a sensitive stomach. For this particular recipe, salmon is the primary ingredient, and it helps deliver a protein-packed and tasty meal that your canine companion will devour.

The sweet potatoes and peas will provide the pet with the powerhouse of nutrition it needs to stay active, while the blend of fatty acids, antioxidants, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals will keep the dog’s immune system strong and promote good overall health.

It doesn’t have any fillers or additives such as corn, soy, wheat, grain, or artificial ingredients. Instead, the delicious taste of this food comes only from the natural ingredients that are listed on the package and that you can trust. It is also available in different flavors if your pup doesn’t like salmon.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

6. The Missing Link Ultimate Skin & Coat Dog

 

This product is intended to be used as a supplement, part of a diverse, healthy, and balanced diet. It doesn’t replace a real meal, but it helps provide the necessary vitamins and nutrients for your dog’s growth.

The powder is specifically designed to be fed once a day, based on your dog’s weight and age. It is formulated for all dog breeds and promises to promote healthy digestion, to fight irritated skin, reduce itchiness, and improve the look of your dog’s coat.

The supplement only contains natural non-GMO ingredients, free from artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. It is available in three package sizes, from 8 ounces to 5 pounds. Again, if you’re feeding your pet this product for the first time, it would be best to start with a small amount at the beginning.

Detailed instructions on the daily feeding chart according to your dog’s weight can be found on the label.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

Other products worth considering for dogs with anal gland problems

 

7. Virbac Vetasyl Fiber Capsules

 

Raising a healthy dog is not always an effortless task, and this is why you’re going to need all the help you can get from foods and supplements. These capsules are designed to promote a healthy and easy digestion, providing relief from constipation.

Based on a selection of fibers, the pills are 100% natural which don’t contain any preservatives, artificial colors or flavors. There aren’t any added sugars or salts either, so your dog can enjoy a healthy and organic food supplement.

Most customers who ordered these capsules claimed they are beneficial for their dogs. The product comes with a detailed ingredient list as well as easy-to-follow directions for use. They are specifically formulated for small dog breeds, up to 20 pounds. Unless specified otherwise by the vet, you should give your dog a capsule a day. If you own a dog under 8 pounds, feed half a tablet per day.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

8. Natural Balance Belly Bites Grain Free

 

Excellent food and supplements aren’t the only things your dog requires for a healthy and balanced nutrition. Treats are also perfect to help your dog train and learn new tricks. This product from Natural Balance contains one pack of puppy chew treats available in different delicious recipes – chicken and legume, duck and legume or salmon and legume.

Each of these tasty puppy training treats is specifically designed to meet the requirements of dogs of all breeds and life stages. They are made with top-quality ingredients and real meat. The chewy texture is perfect for teething puppies or adult dogs with a nasty chewing habit.

What we liked about this product is the grain-free formula and the fact that it is made with real chicken as the number one ingredient. Inside you can also find peas, beans or chicken fat. However, keep in mind that some ingredients such as the dried cultured skim milk might cause allergic reactions to lactose-intolerant dogs.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

9. Diggin’ Your Dog Firm Up Pumpkin

 

This delicious dog supplement is available in two different flavors – pumpkin and cranberry or vegetable.

It is made with real pumpkin and apple fibers that promote the health of the digestive system for both cats and dogs. It will also support stool consistency.

We liked that the product is proudly made in the United States, so ordering it would mean that you are promoting the local economy. Also, thanks to the convenient resealable bag, your dog will enjoy up to 24 months of complete freshness.

We were positively surprised by the fact that this supplement can be consumed alone or mixed with fresh water. Also, the label allows you to correctly adjust the amount of product that needs to be served according to your dog’s breed size and age. For instance, for large dog breeds of over 50 pounds, you need to feed 2-5 tablespoons of this supplement.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

10. Glandex Dog & Cat Anal Gland Sac Fiber Supplement Powder

 

Looking for an item that will promote a healthy digestion and bowel movement? This item from Glandex is specifically designed to meet the needs of dogs and cats. The powder supports the anal gland and comes in a delicious flavor of beef liver.

The manufacturer promises noticeable results in 3-5 weeks of constant use of this powder. However, just like with any other type of supplement, it would be best to discuss this with your veterinarian first.

The item is proudly made in the United States, and it features all-natural and premium ingredients, including probiotics, digestive enzymes, natural anti-inflammatories and pumpkin seeds. It doesn’t contain any corn, wheat, soy or preservatives so you can ensure it’s perfect, even for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Most of the customers who ordered this powder were pleased with its quality, saying it works wonders in the long term.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

11. Probiotics for Dogs

 

This supplement powder is specifically created for dogs that deal with digestive problems. It is enhanced with probiotics to support a healthy tummy and good digestive system. Used on a regular basis, this product will restore the intestinal balance and will help your dog get rid of bloating, gas, and anal gland issues.

The unique formula is designed to meet the requirements of dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages, so you can even be used by puppies or senior dogs. The supplement will strengthen the immune system and will promote a better absorption of the vitamins, nutrients, and minerals.

The taste is also delicious, so you won’t have trouble feeding this item to your dog daily. Just sprinkle some of the powder over your pet’s dry or wet food once a day. For detailed instructions on how to use the powder, we suggest you read the label carefully.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Finding a good high-fiber dog food for anal gland problems could prove a difficult task since there are plenty of reliable products available for sale. So, if you have no clue how to address this issue, here are some aspects that are worthy of your attention.

How many fibers should you give your dog

Dogs are quite sensitive when it comes to their food, and this is why the slightest change in diet could lead to serious health issues. Therefore, we always suggest you purchase special organic dog food that is rich in vitamins, minerals, nutrients, proteins, and fibers – everything that your pet requires to grow healthy.

And, while most foods can contain a satisfying amount of proteins and organic ingredients, they are usually quite poor in fibers. Regular dog food contains between 2% and 5% fibers, which is not enough to promote a healthy digestion and prevent anal gland problems.

On the other hand, an excessive amount of fibers of 10-12% could prove dangerous as well as it could lead to severe diarrhea and other health problems. So how many fibers should the senior dog food contain? The exact amount depends on your dog’s requirements, but usually, a content of 6-10% should be enough to promote healthy bowel movement and avoid anal gland problems.

 

Where to find fibers

In our opinion, you should combine regular food with additional organic dog calming treats to ensure a complete nutrition. Intakes of fresh fruits and veggies are mandatory to provide more energy and offer the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals.

There are several ways to offer the right amount of fibers to your dog, so don’t hesitate to ask for the help of Mother Nature. Whole grains, beet pulp, apples, legumes, flaxseed, carrots or oats represent great natural sources of fibers that can be fed to your dog. However, make sure not to exceed the necessary daily amount.

 

Opt for natural and organic ingredients

Another way to make sure your dog receives the best nutrition is to stick to foods that contain organic and natural ingredients. Whether locally grown or farmed from trustworthy sources, the ingredients should be of high quality.

As a general rule, meat should be the number one ingredient in all foods. It provides a high-quality source of proteins and carbs that is necessary for your dog’s growth and optimal energy levels. Therefore, you may want to avoid meat by-products or inferior sources of meat that are full of preservatives and artificial flavors.

And, if you want to keep your pet’s weight under control, choose a dog food for weight loss low in calories and rich in vitamins, nutrients, and natural antioxidants. Fruits and veggies should also be part of your dog’s diet, so don’t forget to feed him or her berries, carrots, apples, bananas or bell peppers.

Rice and potatoes represent great sources of carbs but avoid feeding large amounts as it could lead to bloating, a slow digestion, and weight gain.

 

Choose the food according to your dog’s age

Although some dog treats for training and supplements are suitable for dogs of all sizes, breeds, and ages, most foods are specifically designed for various age groups. Keep in mind that puppies and senior dogs have more sensitive stomachs and are prone to develop digestive system problems or anal gland problems.

Therefore, we strongly suggest you choose the right dog treats for puppies made of organic ingredients and without preservatives or artificial flavors. Puppies and senior dogs require more calcium and vitamins, while adult dogs and young adults need more proteins and carbs to boost their energy levels.

And, if you still have a hard time finding the perfect meal for your pawed friend, we suggest you go through some online reviews of high-fiber dog food for anal gland problems online. Most verified buyers give detailed feedback about specific products and can help you opt for the right food of puppies or adult dogs.

 

Stay away from certain ingredients

Unfortunately, there are plenty of renowned dog food brands that offer low-quality products filled with questionable, and even dangerous ingredients. If your dog deals with digestive problems or is affected by anal gland problems, you should consider switching to a low-ingredient diet.

There are certain types of foods that don’t contain more than 5-6 ingredients, carefully selected for dogs and puppies with sensitive stomachs and bowel problems. These meals often feature salmon or real meat as a primary source of proteins and don’t contain any wheat, corn, soy or artificial colors.

And, in order to keep your pawed friend happy, you can sneak in some delicious and organic puppy chew treats once in a while.

 

Types of fiber

If this is not the first time you are shopping for the best high fiber dog food-anal gland problems, you probably know that there are two distinct types of fibers that one can opt for, soluble and insoluble. 

Soluble fibers can be integrated into your dog’s diet if you want to increase the good bacteria in its digestive tract. As their name suggests, these fibers are soluble and, thus, they are easy to digest. On top of that, these fibers absorb water and, thus, they can pass through the digestive tract of the animal easier than other foods.

Insoluble fibers do not get digested once consumed. However, they also play an important role in the digestive health of your pup. Their main purpose is to add substance to the stool of the pet. This is vital because, as you know, heavier stools can excrete the anal glands naturally. Insoluble fibers also help with weight loss.

If your pet is suffering from anal gland issues, you must purchase the right type of dog food that can cater to its needs and help it express its anal glands regularly. 

 

What are anal gland problems?

The term anal gland problems is quite vague, especially if you have no medical training. Still, in order to understand how you can help your fluffy companion, you also need to know more about its medical condition. 

The anal glands are two small sacs that can be found inside of a pet’s rectum, glands that fill with secretions produced by the sebaceous glands. Their main function is to help dogs communicate with each other. As you know, when two dogs meet, they usually sniff each other’s bums as a way of saying hello.

Under normal conditions, these glands are emptied every time your pet does its business. However, because things do not always function as intended, your pet might experience troubles emptying its anal glands. This mainly happens when the stools of the pet are too soft or too small. 

When the glands fill to an uncomfortable level, dogs usually scoot around the floor in an attempt to get some relief. This condition is known as impacted anal sacs. Apart from being very uncomfortable for the pet, if left untreated, impacted anal sacs can become infected. If they rupture due to abscesses, your pet will require surgery.  

 

What causes anal gland problems?

The main reason why pets suffer from anal gland problems is, according to specialists, poor quality bowel movements can be considered a factor that leads to anal glands becoming impacted. However, hereditary malformations, as well as skin conditions and food allergies, can increase a pet’s chance of developing such conditions. 

Moreover, some vets also argue that anal gland problems are most often an issue that is common in the case of dogs that are obese or those who suffer from low thyroid function. 

 

Symptoms and vet care

As we have mentioned before, the main symptom that you are likely to notice if your pet is experiencing anal gland issues is scooting. Additionally, you might also notice it licking its rear more often. If you see redness or swelling around the sphincter of your pet dog, it is imperative that you contact your vet as this is a clear sign that the anal glands have become infected. 

If you suspect that your pet is suffering from anal gland issues you should ask the vet for recommendations on how to adjust the dog’s diet. Part of the treatment that he/she is likely to suggest implies the use of dog food that contains high fiber concentration. 

Apart from the medication and the changes in diet, you should work with the vet in the possibility of identifying the underlying causes that caused your beloved companion the anal gland issues that it is struggling to cope with.

If your pet is overweight, you should ask for specialized help to determine what type of dog food is suitable for it. If you take the time to set up a diet plan, there is a high chance that you can help your fluffy friend get to a healthy and balanced weight.

Another thing that you can do to help your pet overcome these anal gland issues is to talk to the groomer to make sure that its anal glands are not expressed unnecessarily.

If you have never had to deal with this medical problem with your other dogs, and you want to learn more about the matter, you should look for forums on this topic, as there are plenty of proud pet owners ready to share their stories.

Other benefits that a high fiber diet brings

Dog food that has a high fiber concentration has many other known benefits that your dog can enjoy, apart from helping it express its anal glands. For instance, such a diet can regulate its blood sugar levels. Consequently, it can help your pet stop suffering from diabetes and obesity.

Secondly, a high fiber diet can prevent your dog from becoming constipated. This happens because high fiber food absorbs the excess water from the intestines. However, no matter if your pet suffers from anal gland issues or not, you have to keep in mind that a high fiber diet can have a detrimental effect on your pup, as it can cause it to defecate more often and it can make it significantly gassier. 

This is why you need to find the right type of dog food that has the right concentration of fibers, per your pet’s needs. 

Because high fiber dog food can make your pet feel full, it can help it lose weight, as it won’t crave too many calories. This is why many vets often recommend high fiber diets for overweight dogs. If you decide to use a high fiber diet to help your dog cut back on its weight, it is vital that you make sure that it gets the right type of nutrition so that it stays healthy. 

While the process of finding the right food for your dog can prove challenging, especially if it suffers from anal gland issues, once you find a product that suits its needs, you will be able to notice the results in due time.

 

 

Frequently asked questions about high-fiber dog foods for anal gland problems

 

Q: How do you know if your dog needs his glands squeezed?

When your dog’s glands become too clogged up, it will start to exhibit a few unusual signs and most of them will give you a clue as to what the problem is. Some of these symptoms can happen in combination with others or your canine companion may only exhibit one.

The most common and obvious sign is a strong foul odor which is very hard to ignore so there is no chance that you’ll miss it. The more time that goes without you fixing this problem, the fouler the smell will get and when things get really bad, the clogged anal glands will start to smell like rotten fish.

Another symptom that you should be on the lookout for is your dog scooting on the floor. This behavior is an indication that the glands are starting to get very uncomfortable for your dog which is why it will try to relieve itself by dragging its hinder end of its body across the floor.

While this behavior is considered amusing by many pet owners, if you do notice it you should immediately report it to your vet for further investigation.

Lastly, your dog may also try to relieve the stress of having clogged glands by licking or chewing at its behind. This type of behavior will also make the skin around the anal area start to look red and puffed up. When it occurs in conjunction with the other two symptoms listed above, the cause is very likely to be due to obstructed glands.

It is very important not to wait once you start noticing these symptoms since clogged glands can be very distressing for your pet. If you’re not familiar with the process of expressing the glands, the easiest and fastest solution is to take the dog for a quick visit to the vet.

 

 

Q: How often do a dog’s glands need to be cleaned?

There is no easy answer to this question since while some dogs do indeed need to have their anal glands manually expressed once or twice a year, or even more often in more serious cases, some dogs never experience issues. Thus, the better question would be whether, not how often your dog’s glands need to be cleaned.

You need to understand that the two anal glands that every dog has are designed to release a unique scent into its stool when the dog poops. For most dogs, these glands filled with liquid empty out with each defecation. Problems arise when the glands fail to empty and that can lead to build-up and in severe situations the glands may even rupture.

You’ll be able to tell if your dog needs its glands cleaned if it gives you signs such as the ones we mentioned earlier: rubbing its behind on the carpet, licking or chewing the bottom area obsessively, and foul odors coming from your pet’s anal area.

Apart from these, external factors can also make it necessary to express the glands manually. Loose stools and diarrhea, in particular, can have a big impact on the anal glands. Unlike normal stools that are hard enough to express the glands on the way out, loose stools can lead to a build-up of liquid inside the anal sacs.

Furthermore, small breeds and dogs that have food allergies or that suffer from obesity may also need to have their glands expressed manually more often. There are also pets who are born with the glands positioned slightly out of place.

It is hard to say just how often your dog’s glands will need to be cleaned or if it will ever need it since each pet has unique needs. As long as you keep a close eye on the behavior of your pet, you and the vet will be able to keep these kinds of problems at bay.

 

Q: How much does it cost to express a dog’s glands?

This is another difficult question to answer since while the procedure is not very difficult per se, the amount of money you can expect to pay for it differs from clinic to clinic and city to city. With that said, it is not an expensive procedure so there is no need to worry that you will need to save up a lot of money.

From what we’ve been able to find, expressing a dog’s glands shouldn’t cost you more than $30 and in some places, you might be able to find it as cheap as $10. Thus, it depends a lot on how much you are willing to pay and on how many different clinics you may have available in your area.

If you’re on a budget or you want to know beforehand how much money you can expect to pay, you can always call clinics around your area and ask them about the price they ask for this procedure.  

Additionally, you can also have the glands expressed by a groomer which is usually much cheaper than having it done by a vet in a clinic. The problem here is that a groomer will never do a better job than a vet and if you care about your pet, then the right approach is to give it the best professional help it can get no matter how much it may cost you.

There are also some cases in which the veterinary team may teach the owner how to express the anal glands at home. This is usually done with dogs who have serious problems and need their glands expressed frequently.

With that said, if this is the first time that your dog needs its glands expressed, it is better to go to a veterinarian and have him or her advise you on what to do next.

 

Q: Can I express my dog’s anal glands at home?

This is something that you can certainly do at home and if your dog has a history of problems with its glands, the vet may even instruct on how to do it at home safely to relieve your pet’s pain. With that said, while this procedure is easy to do at home, it doesn’t mean that every owner will be able to do it, especially once they learn what the first step is.

As you probably already know, anal glands are two sacs that are situated on each side of the anus and produce a smelly fluid that identifies your pet. However, there are situations in which the ducts of the anal glands can get blocked or the sacs no longer contract properly. This can get very uncomfortable for the pet and needs to be handled fast.

Manual expression begins by inserting the index finger into the anus of your dog. This procedure should be done carefully and gently while wearing gloves. The proper technique involves using the thumb of the same hand you’ve inserted into the anus to identify the glands which are located just under the skin that is adjacent to the anus along the lower aspect.

If you picture the anus as a clock, the glands will be positioned at 4 and 8. Once you’ve identified them, you should place a gauze or piece of tissue paper on the anus and apply gentle pressure on the glands (one at a time) starting from the part that is furthest from the anus.

Make sure that you stand on the side of your dog in case fluid starts to spray in unexpected directions. Be very gentle since excessive pressure can cause more issues. Once you are done, you should use the tissue paper to clean the dog’s hind end. You can also look at video tutorials online if you want to get a better idea of what you can expect.

 

 

 

Best High-Fiber Dog Foods for Anal Gland Problems Brands

 

By choosing an Earthborn Holistic product you can be certain that your pet will get to enjoy healthy food that is manufactured in safe conditions and with ingredients that are not only healthy but also extremely tasty. The food is manufactured in the USA and the brand has a long history of almost 100 years.

The ingredients used are tested when they arrive at the factory and that helps ensure they are free of toxins such as aflatoxin, vomitoxin, and fumitoxin. The suppliers also run a multitude of other tests depending on the ingredients used in a specific formula and these include testing for salmonella, peroxide value, water activity, and melamine.

Thus, you can be certain that the Earthborn Holistic dog food delivers when it comes to quality and safety. The facilities are inspected annually and the company has never had a recall. The Earthborn Holistic food is approved for sales to the European Union, Australia, Russia, and other regions that have strict regulations.

The selection of products is also very varied and you can find food for every dog no matter its breed, age, activity level, or special requirements. Most of the options available combine the highest quality holistic ingredients to help nourish your pet, and to this end, only the finest proteins, fats, and vegetables have been used.

Furthermore, each formula is also packed with a complex blend of vitamins and minerals to help support immunity, health, energy, and wellness. Every ingredient is carefully selected to provide maximum benefit and nutrition.

 

The story of this brand name is a touching one since it all started with Blue, a large and lovable Airedale who’d struggled with cancer and was the foundation of this brand which now focuses on providing super-premium pet food that uses only the finest natural ingredients to help keep your pet in top shape.

All the Blue Wilderness foods are formulated by leading holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to develop the best possible diet that starts with real and high-quality meat. Throughout the years, the brand has developed lots of healthy foods and treats that address the needs of dogs and their owners.

The brand specializes in both dry and wet dog food that has been specially formulated to meet the dietary needs of all dog breeds. If your pet has special needs, Blue Wilderness will help you address them since it offers special formulas for dogs with allergies, or for pets who have a sensitive digestive system.

Blue Wilderness also stands out thanks to its LifeSource Bits which are small, dark kibbles that contain a precise blend of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants specially selected by animal nutritionists and holistic veterinarians. They are “cold-formed” to help preserve their potency.

The LifeSource Bits are manufactured separately with less heat than the rest of the kibble and that helps preserve the antioxidants and vitamins so that your dog gets the full benefit of these vital nutrients.

What’s more, if you’re a cat owner, your feline can benefit from the Blue Wilderness innovations as well since this brand also specializes in manufacturing cat food.

 

Taste of the Wild is a U.S.-based pet food manufacturer that is operated by one family and its focus is on the well-being of pets and their owners. This is why the focus of this brand is on high-quality yet affordable pet food options.

It is a relatively new dog food brand since it debuted around 2007 in a market that lacked options capable of delivering premium natural dog food and grain-free options with better ingredients. Today, Taste of the Wild is one of the fastest-growing pet food brands not only in the U.S. but also in the world.

In spite of its newfound fame, the focus is still on staying true to the notion that started it all, namely that every pet deserves to get the best nutrition and every pet parent should be able to get it at a fair value. There’s no compromise involved and the people in charge have always said that the brand doesn’t make anything they wouldn’t feed to their own pets.

The foods Taste of the Wild produces feature grain-free formulas that are based on what a dog would eat in the wild, hence the name. The emphasis is put on better taste, highly-digestible ingredients, and natural antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system and overall health.

Another advantage of this option is its wide variety of ingredients that include buffalo, venison, lamb meal, and chicken meal. All in all, if you’re looking for tasty grain-free food at a reasonable price, Taste of the Wild is the go-to brand.

 

It’s in your dog’s instinct to roam for food, be it fish, whole meat, poultry, or other wholesome ingredients. This is where Instinct’s name comes from and the brand is focused on giving your dog a type of food that resembled their natural diet as closely as possible.

Each of the numerous types of foods, be it dry, wet, or raw that this brand offers is supplemented with the right balance of proteins and vitamins. Nowadays, Instinct is one of the most popular brands of dog foods available on the market thanks to its focus on high-quality ingredients and its wide selection of products.

It is one of the leaders in the raw dog food market and its products are also available in freeze-dried forms that help keep the raw food fresh and safe to eat for longer. The focus on 100% grain-free and gluten-free food has also won Instinct a lot of appreciation from pet parents who want only what’s best for their dogs.

Because the focus of the food Instinct offers is on providing a natural and nutritious diet, you won’t find corn, soy, wheat, chemicals, allergens, or artificial colors and preservatives in it. The main ingredient for most of its food is chicken meal which provides up to 300% more proteins and nutrients than raw chicken.

Some of the other ingredients you may find in this food include tapioca which is a gluten-free starch used in high-end dog food, chicken fat which is an excellent source of Omega-6 fatty acid, pumpkin seeds which are full of essential fatty acids, and menhaden which is a type of fish that is rich in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.

 

 

What you need to know about canine anal glands

 

Canine anal glands serve a complex role of communication between dogs. When you see two dogs sniffing each other’s rears, that is their way of getting acquainted. However, they are not precisely smelling each other’s butts, as that is the common misconception. What they sniff is the odor secreted by their anal glands which contains some vital information, such as sex, health status, and age. If you care about your dog’s health and wellbeing, you need to know a few things about these glands and how you should care for them.

 

What are they?

They have the shape and size of a grape, and they are located next to the anus, at two and eight on a clock face. Their primary role is to make and store a type of liquid that serves as an identification card among canines.

As shown earlier, dogs sniff each other with the sole purpose of smelling these glands, or, better said, the liquid the glands eliminate. Although we might find the habit distasteful, the thing is that dogs, even domesticated, are still animals, and this is their natural way of communicating.

Dogs create this liquid all the time, and they eliminate it regularly, with each stool. The liquid elimination happens at the beginning and the end of the stool, and it serves as a marking of territory.

A proper diet is highly recommended

If you have ever heard someone talking about pets that experience issues with their anal glands, you might have also learned about the fact that a proper diet, rich in high-fiber dog food for anal gland problems is the most common cure and prevention method.

What happens is that dogs eliminate the liquid from their anal glands when they defecate. If they have problems with their bowel movements, that doesn’t happen, and that is when issues with these glands tend to occur.

A diet that is balanced and rich in fiber can have multiple benefits and a positive impact on your dog’s health. Obese dogs tend to develop anal sac disease more often than those that have a healthy weight, and that is why you will often see these canines at the vet, to have their anal glands expressed.

 

Is emptying the anal glands necessary?

The short and simple answer to this question is: yes, emptying the anal glands is paramount for your dog’s health. Typically, you should not worry about this, as dogs take care of it on their own. However, there are situations when the anal glands become impacted, and they need a bit of help from the outside.

The process of relieving the liquid from the glands is also called expressing the anal sacs, and it is usually carried on by a vet or a groomer. However, it is not something complicated, and aside from the fact that the liquid smells quite awful, you can do it at home, without professional help, once you learn how it is performed.

What happens if the glands remain impacted and full?

A poor diet combined with lack of exercise is responsible for impacted glands more often than not. If a dog has impacted glands, and no relief occurs, problems start to show up. At first, the little liquid that still gets eliminated will have an even more terrible smell. That is when you will know that something is wrong.

The impacted glands can further lead to infection and abscesses. Now it is said that they evolved into anal sac disease. Other symptoms, like blood and puss in their vicinity, also start to appear.

That is when an intervention is necessary. Take your dog to the vet and have the glands drained. Administer the treatment offered by the veterinarian and start thinking about changes in your dog’s diet.

 

How often should expressing the glands take place?

Some dogs need their glands expressed only once in a while. Others need it quite regularly, and it’s almost like it’s written in their DNA. You will learn, in due time, what category your dog belongs to so that you can take the necessary measures to care for his or her health.

Sometimes, anal sac disease can get so bad that surgery is the only answer. Talk to your vet about whether or not your dog needs such an intervention and be aware of the usual risks associated with surgery.

 

 

Anal glands – Why dogs have them and other interesting facts

 

Dogs sniff each other to learn about the identity of other canines they encounter, and that is all possible due to the special glands they have in that area. As a pet owner, you might have already heard about health issues associated with these glands, so learning about them can help you understand how to care for your dog’s wellbeing better. Here are some facts you should know.

 

Where are the anal glands located?

There are two anal glands, each of them located on either side of the anus. They are about the size of a grape, and they can hold the equivalent of a teaspoon of liquid. The liquid contained in these glands is eliminated each time your dog defecates. It serves multiple purposes, and, in this case, it helps the dog mark his or her territory. It is also a message sent to other canines.

Even if they are domesticated, dogs are still creatures from the wild. That is why they use their anal glands in such a manner. For them, the liquid secreted by these glands is an essential way of communicating with other members of their species.

 

Each dog’s scent is different

While we, humans, may feel tempted to say that the odor secreted by the liquid contained in a dog’s glands is not different from the one coming from another dog, and just consider that it all smells equally bad, the truth is that each dog uses this scent to communicate, and that is why it contains a specific signature.

For a dog sniffing another dog, a plethora of information is learned just by smelling the other’s scent signature. Your dog can learn about other dogs’ essential information, such as the sex of the other dog, his or her health status, and age. That is why dogs are so interested in sniffing each other the moment they meet.

What is the liquid from anal glands made of?

Although, as shown earlier, the liquid the anal glands of each dog eliminate is slightly different, the primary composition is the same. This liquid is made from aliphatic acid, ethanol, acetic acid, and trimethylamine, and it smells pretty much like rancid fish, which is why we cannot stand it.

 

Dogs may use the release of liquid as a defense mechanism

While we learned that the primary use of the liquid secreted by the anal glands is for each dog to sign his or her personal card, there are other uses for it. For instance, some dogs, when in danger, eliminate a high quantity of liquid, so that their attacker gets distracted for enough time for them to run away.

 

Excessive scooting happens when the sacs are too full

Dogs need to have their anal glands emptied on a regular basis, but that doesn’t always happen. In case you notice your pet scooting a lot, that can be a sign that the sacs containing the liquid are full and they cause some discomfort.

To get rid of this problem, you can take your pet to the vet to have the anal glands expressed. That can be quite a smelly process, which is why most pet owners prefer to have a vet or a pet groomer do it.

Can diet promote anal sac relief?

Yes, that is one of the first things you can do to help your pet relieve the content of the anal sacs on a regular basis. Dogs usually release the liquid inside the glands with each stool they eliminate. However, if the dog experiences bowel movement problems, it is easy to see why the anal sac content cannot be eliminated healthily.

Ask your vet to offer you some options for high-fiber dog food for anal gland problems, as that can help you tremendously. Your dog will experience fewer bowel movement problems, and you will notice that the usual problems with the anal glands will occur less often.

 

There can be serious issues that cannot be solved by diet

You should bear in mind, nonetheless, that sometimes, the problems your dog experiences with his or her anal glands, are not that easy to solve. In such cases, your vet might even recommend surgery, or regular relief of the anal glands, under professional supervision.

 

 

Why is anal gland care important?

 

New pet parents might not know about the importance of anal gland care when they bring home a puppy. But you should know that grooming your dog may involve more than just using a brush to make his or her coat shine, or choosing the right type of shampoo. Anal gland care is an integral part of caring for your dog, and of his or her wellness.

 

What are the anal glands and what role do they play?

First things first, let’s understand some things about anal glands and what role they play in the particular anatomy of a canine. You might have notice dogs always sniffing their rears when they meet, or even doing the same thing to themselves. The reason why they do that is that the anal glands located close to the anus secrete a substance that serves the purpose of transmitting information.

By sniffing each other, dogs learn about one another, things such as sex, age, health status, and so on. As you might easily guess by now, the role of the anal glands is quite an important one. If a dog tends to sniff his or her rear end more often than usual, or tries to bite it, that can be a sign of a problem with the anal glands.

What are some common anal gland problems?

Anal glands are in charge of secreting a unique fluid with a particular odor that, as explained earlier, is used to tell the other canines a dog encounters who he or she is. Typically, the fluid contained in these glands is released together with bowel movements. This process keeps the anal glands healthy.

However, due to various reasons, the anal glands can become impacted. Relieving the anal glands is not a complicated process, but you will have your vet explain to you how it’s done. In case you want nothing to do with that particular smelly process, you can always schedule a visit to the vet and have your dog’s anal glands expressed, as this is called.

Some malformations and mediocre quality food that causes malfunctions in the bowel movement of a pet can be the root of such problems. When the anal glands remain full, in time, they can be affected by infections, abscesses and even ruptures.

 

How to tell if your dog has anal gland problems?

Blood and pus in the area is quite a clear sign that you should take your dog to the vet. An infection or even a rupture might have already occurred. Also, a pungent fluid will usually accompany your dog’s stool, and due to the foul smell produced by this fluid, you will be able to tell something wrong is happening.

If you observe your dog scooting a lot, or trying to bite his or her rear, that could be a sign that the anal glands are acting up. Taking your dog to the vet will help relieve this problem.

What can you do to prevent such issues?

A lot of vets recommend pet owners to introduce high-fiber dog food for anal gland problems in their furry friend’s diet. Especially if you end up visiting the vet quite often with the same problem, that could be a way of preventing it from reoccurring too frequently.

A diet that is rich in fiber will help your dog have a bulkier stool. This, in turn, will help the relief of the anal glands on a regular basis, which is precisely what your dog needs. Helping your dog to relieve the anal glands naturally will work wonders on your canine friend’s overall wellness and health.

There are other benefits associated with this change in your dog’s diet. Pets that are obese can significantly benefit, as they will feel fuller faster and for more extended periods of time than usual. That will help them naturally lose weight, thus eliminating the need to visit the vet for various health problems.

 

When nothing works

In case the glands are inset, or there seems to be a chronic problem with them, the surgical solution might be the only viable method. Do not hurry to opt for surgery, though, unless there is no other way; there are risks associated with any operation, as you may well know, such as accidental cutting of nerves in the area, and infections.

 

 

Unavailable products

 

Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein

 

This food is perfect for both adult dogs and puppies as it is specifically formulated for each age category. You can buy it in various delicious flavors, depending on your dog’s preferences – bison, salmon, roasted duck or lamb.

It is sold in plenty of package sizes, ranging from 5 pounds to 30 pounds, so it is convenient to store and feed, depending on the size and breed of your dog. However, if you are feeding your pet this product for the first time, we would suggest starting with the 5-pound package until it gets used to the taste.

We liked that the food is made with high-quality and organic ingredients coming from sustainable sources all around the world. It doesn’t contain any grains, corn, wheat, artificial flavors or preservatives, so it is safe to be fed even to puppies or dogs with sensitive stomachs. It promotes proper digestion and will keep your pet away from anal gland problems.

 

 

 

Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost

 

The high-protein kibbles are specifically formulated to meet the needs of adult and mature dogs. The food contains L-Carnitine that helps burning fat, as well as probiotics to promote healthy digestion and if you want to increase the intake you can always check out some premium products that offer this. It is the perfect combination of fibers, vitamins, minerals, and proteins that provide a balanced nutrition for your dog.

The item comes with 20% less fat and around 15% fewer calories than other similar products formulated with meat as the number one ingredient. All the ingredients are natural and organic, rich in animal proteins. Thanks to the grain-free and gluten-free formula, even the most sensitive pets will be able to enjoy a healthy meal.

What we also liked about this food is that it doesn’t contain any soy, fillers, wheat, corn or meat by-products. By purchasing this product, you are supporting the Best Friends Animal Society that aims to offer over one million meals to pets in adoption centers.

 

 

 

Bibliography:

1) High Fiber Dog Food: Reasons, Types, & Tips

2) How to Add Fiber to a Dog’s Diet

3) High Fiber Dog Food 101

4) Anal Sac Disease in Dogs

5) Anal gland impaction in dogs