A.J. German (a), Corresponding author contact information, S.L. Holden (a),M.L. Wiseman-Orr(b),J. Reid(b), A.M. Nolan(b),V. Biourge(c),P.J. Morris(d),E.M. Scott(b)

Abstract

Obesity is thought to affect quality of life, but limited objective data exist to support this supposition. The current study aim was to use a questionnaire . . . → Read More: Obesity in Dogs]]> Quality of life is reduced in obese dogs but improves after successful weight loss
Sponsored Article

A.J. German (a), Corresponding author contact information, S.L. Holden (a),M.L. Wiseman-Orr(b),J. Reid(b), A.M. Nolan(b),V. Biourge(c),P.J. Morris(d),E.M. Scott(b)

Abstract

Obesity is thought to affect quality of life, but limited objective data exist to support this supposition. The current study aim was to use a questionnaire to determine health-related quality of life (HRQOL) both before and after weight loss, in obese client-owned dogs. Fifty obese dogs were included, and represented a variety of breeds and genders. Prior to weight loss, owners were asked to complete a validated standardised questionnaire to determine HRQOL. Thirty of the dogs successfully completed their weight loss programme and reached target, and owners then completed a follow-up questionnaire. The completed questionnaire responses were transformed to scores corresponding to each of four factors (vitality, emotional disturbance, anxiety and pain), and scored on a scale of 0–6. Changes in the scores were used to explore the sensitivity of the questionnaire, and scores were correlated with responses to direct questions about quality of life and pain, as well as weight loss.

Dogs that failed to complete their weight loss programme had lower vitality and higher emotional disturbance scores than those successfully losing weight (P = 0.03 for both). In the 30 dogs that completed, weight loss led to an increased vitality score (P < 0.001), and decreased scores for both emotional disturbance (P < 0.001) and pain (P < 0.001). However, there was no change in anxiety (P = 0.09). The change in vitality score was positively associated with percentage weight loss (rP = 0.43, P = 0.02) and percentage body fat loss (rP = 0.39, P = 0.03). These results indicate demonstrable improvement in HRQOL for obese dogs that successfully lose weight.

a Department of Obesity and Endocrinology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, United Kingdom
b Pain and Welfare Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QW, United Kingdom
c The WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition, Freeby Lane, Waltham-on-the-Wolds, Melton Mowbray LE14 4RT, United Kingdom
d Royal Canin Research Center, B.P.4 – 650 Avenue de la Petite Camargue, 30470 Aimargues, France

Accepted 22 September 2011. Available online 8 November 2011.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2011.09.015,

Canine;
Obesity;
Wellbeing;
Weight management;
Health-related quality of life

http://www.thyroid.org/patients/ct/volume4/issue6/ct_patients_v46_12_13.html “This is the first study to show that dietary supplementation with very high doses of soy phytoestrogen (at levels typical of a vegetarian diet), may result in a 3-fold increase in the risk of progression from subclinical to overt hypothyroidism, suggesting that vegetarian patients with mild subclinical hypothyroidism may need more careful . . . → Read More: Flaxseed, soy and low thyroid]]> From the American Thyroid Assn (an association of professional
endocrinologists).

http://www.thyroid.org/patients/ct/volume4/issue6/ct_patients_v46_12_13.html

“This is the first study to show that dietary supplementation with very high
doses of soy phytoestrogen (at levels typical of a vegetarian diet), may
result in a 3-fold increase in the risk of progression from subclinical to
overt hypothyroidism, suggesting that vegetarian patients with mild
subclinical hypothyroidism may need more careful monitoring of thyroid
function. The mechanism for this effect is not well understood.
On the other hand, high dose phytoestrogen also resulted in improvement in
cardiovascular risk factors despite worsening of thyroid function and may be
beneficial to patients with increased cardiovascular risk.”

[It should be noted that flaxseed contains 3x the phytoestrogen of soy, and
it is probably better absorbed from the gut (more digestible). With the
proliferation of flaxseed in both pet and human food, one has to wonder
about the increased numbers of hypothyroid animals and humans.]

Pet food labeling is regulated at two levels. The federal regulations, enforced by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), establish standards applicable for all animal feeds: proper identification of product, net quantity statement, manufacturer’s name and address, and proper listing of ingredients. Some states also enforce their own labeling regulations. . . . → Read More: What you need to know about Pet Food Labels]]> Pet Food Labels – General
http://www.fda.gov/

Pet food labeling is regulated at two levels. The federal regulations, enforced by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), establish standards applicable for all animal feeds: proper identification of product, net quantity statement, manufacturer’s name and address, and proper listing of ingredients. Some states also enforce their own labeling regulations. Many states have adopted the model pet food regulations established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These regulations are more specific in nature, covering aspects of labeling such as the product name, the guaranteed analysis, the nutritional adequacy statement, feeding directions, and calorie statements.

Product Name
The product name can be a key factor in the consumer’s decision to buy the product. For that reason, manufacturers often use fanciful names or other techniques to emphasize a particular aspect of the product. Because many consumers purchase a product based on the presence of a specific ingredient, many product names incorporate the name of an ingredient to highlight its inclusion in the product. The percentages of named ingredients in the total product are dictated by four AAFCO rules.

The “95%” rule applies to products consisting primarily of meat, poultry or fish, and most often are canned products. They have simple names, such as “Beef for Dogs” or “Tuna Cat Food.” In these examples, at least 95% of the product must be the named ingredient (beef or tuna, respectively), not counting the water added for processing and “condiments.” Counting the added water, the named ingredient still must comprise 70% of the product. Because ingredient lists must be declared in the proper order of predominance by weight, “beef” or “tuna” should be the first ingredient listed, followed often by water, and then other components such as vitamins and minerals. If the name includes a combination of ingredients, such as “Chicken ‘n Liver Dog Food,” the two named ingredients together must comprise 95% of the total weight. The first ingredient named in the product name must be the one of higher predominance in the product. For example, the product could not be named “Lobster and Salmon for Cats” if there is more salmon than lobster in the product. Because this rule only applies to ingredients of animal origin, ingredients that are not from a meat, poultry or fish source, such as grains and vegetables, cannot be used as a component of the 95% total. For example, a product named “Lamb and Rice Dog Food” would be misbranded unless the product was comprised of at least 95% lamb.

The “25%” or “dinner” rule applies to many canned and dry products. If the named ingredients comprise at least 25% of the product (not counting the water for processing), but less than 95%, the name must include a qualifying descriptive term, such as “Dinner” as in “Beef Dinner for Dogs.” Counting the added water, the named ingredients still must comprise 10% of the product. Many descriptors other than “dinner” are used, however, with “Platter,” “Entree,” “Nuggets” and “Formula” being a few examples. In the example “Beef Dinner for Dogs” only one-quarter of the product must be beef, and beef would most likely be the third or fourth ingredient on the ingredient list. Because the primary ingredient is not always the named ingredient, and may in fact be an ingredient that the consumer does not wish to feed, the ingredient list should always be checked before purchase. For example, a cat owner may have learned from his or her finicky feline to avoid buying products with fish in it, because the cat doesn’t like fish. However, a “Chicken Formula Cat Food” may not always be the best choice, since some “chicken formulas” may indeed contain fish, and sometimes may contain even more fish than chicken. A quick check of the ingredient list would avert this mistake.

If more than one ingredient is included in a “dinner” name, the combination of the named ingredients must total 25% of the product and be listed in the same order as found on the ingredient list. Also, each named ingredient must be at least 3% of the total. Therefore, “Chicken n’ Fish Dinner Cat Food” must have 25% chicken and fish combined, and at least 3% fish. Also, unlike the “95%” rule, this rule applies to all ingredients, whether of animal origin or not. For example, a “Lamb and Rice Formula for Cats” would be an acceptable name as long as there was more lamb in the product than rice and the amounts of lamb and rice combined totaled 25%.

The “3%” or “with” rule was originally intended to apply only to ingredients highlighted on the principal display panel, but outside the product name, in order to allow manufacturers to point out the presence of minor ingredients that were not added in sufficient quantity to merit a “dinner” claim. For example, a “Cheese Dinner,” with 25% cheese, would not be feasible or economical to produce, but either a “Beef Dinner for Dogs” or “Chicken Formula Cat Food” could include a side burst “with cheese” if at least 3% cheese is added. The AAFCO model regulations now allow use of the term “with” as part of the product name, such as “Dog Food With Beef” or “Cat Food With Chicken.” Now, even a minor change in the wording of the name has a dramatic impact on the minimum amount of the named ingredient required, e.g., a can of “Cat Food With Tuna” could be confused with a can of “Tuna Cat Food,” but, whereas the latter example must contain at least 95% tuna, the first needs only 3%. Therefore, the consumer must read labels carefully before purchase to ensure that the desired product is obtained.

Under the “flavor” rule, a specific percentage is not required, but a product must contain an amount sufficient to be able to be detected. There are specific test methods, using animals trained to prefer specific flavors, which can be used to confirm this claim. In the example of “Beef Flavor Dog Food,” the word “flavor” must appear on the label in the same size, style and color as the word “beef.” The corresponding ingredient may be beef, but more often it is another substance that will give the characterizing flavor, such as beef meal or beef by-products.

With respect to flavors, pet foods often contain “digests,” which are materials treated with heat, enzymes and/or acids to form concentrated natural flavors. Only a small amount of a “chicken digest” is needed to produce a “Chicken Flavored Cat Food,” even though no actual chicken is added to the food. Stocks or broths are also occasionally added. Whey is often used to add a milk flavor. Often labels will bear a claim of “no artificial flavors.” Actually, artificial flavors are rarely used in pet foods. The major exception to that would be artificial smoke or bacon flavors, which are added to some treats.
Net Quantity Statement
The net quantity statement tells you how much product is in the container. There are many FDA regulations dictating the format, size and placement of the net quantity statement. None of these do any good if the consumer does not check the quantity statements, especially when comparing the cost of products. For example, a 14-ounce can of food may look identical to the one-pound can of food right next to it. Also, dry products may differ greatly in density, especially some of the “lite” products. Thus, a bag that may typically hold 40 pounds of food may only hold 35 pounds of a food that is “puffed up.” A cost-per-ounce or per-pound comparison between products is always prudent.
Manufacturer’s Name and Address

The “manufactured by…” statement identifies the party responsible for the quality and safety of the product and its location. If the label says “manufactured for…” or “distributed by…,” the food was manufactured by an outside manufacturer, but the name on the label still designates the responsible party. Not all labels include a street address along with the city, state, and zip code, but by law, it should be listed in either a city directory or a telephone directory. Many manufacturers also voluntarily include a toll-free number on the label for consumer inquiries. If a consumer has a question or complaint about the product, he or she should not hesitate to use this information to contact the responsible party.
Ingredient List
All ingredients are required to be listed in order of predominance by weight. The weights of ingredients are determined as they are added in the formulation, including their inherent water content. This latter fact is important when evaluating relative quantity claims, especially when ingredients of different moisture contents are compared.

For example, one pet food may list “meat” as its first ingredient, and “corn” as the second ingredient. The manufacturer doesn’t hesitate to point out that its competitor lists “corn” first (“meat meal” is second), suggesting the competitor’s product has less animal-source protein than its own. However, meat is very high in moisture (approximately 75% water). On the other hand, water and fat are removed from meat meal, so it is only 10% moisture (what’s left is mostly protein and minerals). If we could compare both products on a dry matter basis (mathematically “remove” the water from both ingredients), one could see that the second product had more animal-source protein from meat meal than the first product had from meat, even though the ingredient list suggests otherwise.

That is not to say that the second product has more “meat” than the first, or in fact, any meat at all. Meat meal is not meat per se, since most of the fat and water have been removed by rendering. Ingredients must be listed by their “common or usual” name. Most ingredients on pet food labels have a corresponding definition in the AAFCO Official Publication. For example, “meat” is defined as the “clean flesh of slaughtered mammals and is limited to…the striate muscle…with or without the accompanying and overlying fat and the portions of the skin, sinew, nerve and blood vessels which normally accompany the flesh.” On the other hand, “meat meal” is “the rendered product from mammal tissues, exclusive of any added blood, hair, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach and rumen contents.” Thus, in addition to the processing, it could also contain parts of animals one would not think of as “meat.” Meat meal may not be very pleasing to think about eating yourself, even though it can contain more minerals than meat. However, animals do not share in people’s aesthetic concerns about the source and composition of their food. Regardless, the distinction must be made in the ingredient list (and in the product name). For this reason, a product containing “lamb meal” cannot be named a “Lamb Dinner.”

Further down the ingredient list, the “common or usual” names become less common or usual to most consumers. The majority of ingredients with chemical-sounding names are, in fact, vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients. Other possible ingredients may include artificial colors, stabilizers, and preservatives. All should be either “Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)” or approved food additives for their intended uses.

If scientific data are presented that show a health risk to animals of an ingredient or additive, the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) can act to prohibit or modify its use in pet food. For example, propylene glycol was used as a humectant in soft-moist pet foods, which helps retain water and gives these products their unique texture and taste. It was affirmed Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in human and animal food before the advent of soft-moist foods. It was known for some time that propylene glycol caused Heinz Body formation in the red blood cells of cats (small clumps of proteins seen in the cells when viewed under the microscope), but it could not be shown to cause overt anemia or other clinical effects. However, reports in the veterinary literature of scientifically sound studies have shown that propylene glycol reduces the red blood cell survival time, renders red blood cells more susceptible to oxidative damage, and has other adverse effects in cats consuming the substance at levels found in soft-moist food. In light of these new data, CVM amended the regulations to expressly prohibit the use of propylene glycol in cat foods.

Another pet food additive of some controversy is ethoxyquin, which was approved as a food additive over forty-five years ago for use as an antioxidant chemical preservative to help prevent the destruction of some vitamins and related compounds in animal foods and to help prevent peroxide from forming in canned pet foods. In the 1990s, CVM began receiving reports from dog owners attributing the presence of ethoxyquin in the dog food with a myriad of adverse effects, such as allergic reactions, skin problems, major organ failure, behavior problems, and cancer. However, there was a paucity of available scientific data to support these contentions, or to show other adverse effects in dogs at levels approved for use in dog foods. Subsequent studies by the manufacturer of ethoxyquin showed a dose-dependent accumulation of a hemoglobin-related pigment in the liver, as well as increases in the levels of liver-related enzymes in the blood. Although these changes are due to ethoxyquin in the diet, the pigment is not made from ethoxyquin itself, and the health significance of these findings is unknown. Nevertheless, CVM has asked the pet food industry to voluntarily lower the maximum level of use of ethoxyquin in dog foods from 150 ppm (0.015%) to 75 ppm. Regardless, most pet foods that contained ethoxyquin never exceeded the lower amount, even before this recommended change.
Guaranteed Analysis
At minimum, many state regulations require a pet food to guarantee the minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat, and the maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. The “crude” term refers to the specific method of testing the product, not to the quality of the nutrient itself.

Some manufacturers include guarantees for other nutrients as well. The maximum percentage of ash (the mineral component) is often guaranteed, especially on cat foods. Cat foods commonly bear guarantees for taurine and magnesium as well. For dog foods, minimum percentage levels of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and linoleic acid are found on some products.

Guarantees are declared on an “as fed” or “as is” basis, that is, the amounts present in the product as it is found in the can or bag. This doesn’t have much bearing when the guarantees of two products of similar moisture content are compared (for example, a dry dog food versus another dry dog food). However, when comparing the guaranteed analyses between dry and canned products, one will note that the levels of crude protein and most other nutrients are much lower for the canned product. This can be explained by looking at the relative moisture contents. Canned foods typically contain 75-78% moisture, whereas dry foods contain only 10-12% moisture. To make meaningful comparisons of nutrient levels between a canned and dry product, they should be expressed on the same moisture basis.

The most accurate means of doing this is to convert the guarantees for both products to a moisture-free or dry matter basis. The percentage of dry matter of the product is equal to 100% minus the percentage of moisture guaranteed on the label. A dry food is approximately 88-90% dry matter, while a canned food is only about 22-25% dry matter. To convert a nutrient guarantee to a dry matter basis, the percent guarantee should be divided by the percentage of the dry matter, then multiplied by 100. For example, a canned food guarantees 8% crude protein and 75% moisture (or 25% dry matter), while a dry food contains 27% crude protein and 10% moisture (or 90% dry matter). Which has more protein, the dry or canned? Calculating the dry matter protein of both, the canned contains 32% crude protein on a dry matter basis (8/25 X 100 = 32), while the dry has only 30% on a dry matter basis (27/90 X 100 = 30). Thus, although it looks like the dry has a lot more protein, when the water is counted out, the canned actually has a little more. An easier way is to remember that the amount of dry matter in the dry food is about four times the amount in a canned product. To compare guarantees between a dry and canned food, multiply the guarantees for the canned food times four first.

It is especially important to look at the moisture guarantee for canned foods, even when comparing a canned food with another canned. Under AAFCO regulations, the maximum percentage moisture content for a pet food is 78%, except for products labeled as a “stew,” “in sauce,” “in gravy,” or similar terms. The extra water gives the product the qualities needed to have the appropriate texture and fluidity. Some of these exempted products have been found to contain as much as 87.5% moisture. This doesn’t sound like much difference until the dry matter contents are compared. For example, a product with a guarantee of 87.5% moisture contains 12.5% dry matter, only half as much as a product with a 75% moisture guarantee (25% dry matter).
Nutritional Adequacy Statement
Any claim that a product is “complete,” “balanced,” “100% nutritious,” or claims of a similarly nature that suggests a product is suitable for sole nourishment when it is not, in fact, nutritionally adequate for such purpose is a potentially unsafe product. For this reason, an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement is one of the most important aspects of a dog or cat food label. A “complete and balanced” pet food must be substantiated for nutritional adequacy by one of two means.

The first method is for the pet food to contain ingredients formulated to provide levels of nutrients that meet an established profile. Presently, the AAFCO Dog or Cat Food Nutrient Profiles are used. Products substantiated by this method should include the words, “(Name of product) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO (Dog/Cat) Food Nutrient Profiles.” This means the product contains the proper amount of all recognized essential nutrients needed to meet the needs of the healthy animal.

The alternative means of substantiating nutritional adequacy is for the product to be tested using the appropriate AAFCO Feeding Trial Protocol(s). This means that the product, or “lead” member of a “family” of products, has been fed to dogs or cats under strict guidelines and found to provide proper nutrition. These products should bear the nutritional adequacy statement “Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that (name of product) provides complete and balanced nutrition.”

Regardless of the method used, the nutritional adequacy statement will also state for which life stage(s) the product is suitable, such as “for maintenance,” or “for growth.” A product intended “for all life stages” meets the more stringent nutritional needs for growth and reproduction. A maintenance ration will meet the needs of an adult, non-reproducing dog or cat of normal activity, but may not be sufficient for a growing, reproducing, or hard-working animal. On the other hand, an all life stages ration can be fed for maintenance. Although the higher levels of nutrients would not be harmful to the healthy adult animal, they are not really necessary. Occasionally a product may be labeled for a more specific use or life stage, such as “senior” or for a specific size or breed. However, there is little information as to the true dietary needs of these more specific uses, and no rules governing these types of statements have been established. Thus, a “senior” diet must meet the requirements for adult maintenance, but no more. A product that does not meet either of the methods for substantiation of nutritional adequacy must state that “this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only,” unless the product is conspicuously identified as a “snack,” “treat.” or “supplement.”
Feeding Directions
Feeding directions instruct the consumer on how much product should be offered to the animal. At minimum, they should include verbiage such as “feed ___ cups per ___ pounds of body weight daily.” On some small cans, this may be all the information that can fit. The feeding directions should be taken as rough guidelines, a place to start. Breed, temperament, environment, and many other factors can influence food intake. Manufacturers attempt to cover almost all contingencies by setting the directions for the most demanding. The best suggestion is to offer the prescribed amount at first, and then to increase or cut back as needed to maintain body weight in adults or to achieve proper rate of gain in puppies and kittens. A nursing mother should be offered all the food she wants to eat.
Calorie Statement

Pet foods can vary greatly in calorie content, even among foods of the same type (dry, canned) and formulated for the same life stage. Feeding directions vary among manufacturers, too, so the number of calories delivered in a daily meal of one food may be quite different from another. The number of calories in a product roughly relates to the amount of fat, although varying levels of non-calorie-containing components, such as water and fiber, can throw this correlation off. The best way for consumers to compare products and determine how much to be fed is to know the calorie content. AAFCO regulations have been developed to allow manufacturers to substantiate calorie content and include a voluntary statement.

If a calorie statement is made on the label, it must be expressed on a “kilocalories per kilogram” basis. Kilocalories are the same as the “Calories” consumers are used to seeing on food labels. A “kilogram” is a unit of metric measurement equal to 2.2 pounds. Manufacturers are also allowed to express the calories in familiar household units (for example, “per cup” or “per can”) along with the required kilocalories per kilogram statement. Even without this additional information, however, consumers can make meaningful comparisons between products and pick the product best suited for their animals’ needs. As with the guaranteed analysis, the calorie statement is made on an “as fed” basis, so corrections for moisture content must be made as described above. To roughly compare the caloric content values between a canned and a dry food, multiply the value for the canned food by four.
Other Label Claims
Many pet foods are labeled as “premium,” and some now are “super premium” and even “ultra premium.” Other products are touted as “gourmet” items. Products labeled as premium or gourmet are not required to contain any different or higher quality ingredients, nor are they held up to any higher nutritional standards than are any other complete and balanced products.

The term “natural” is often used on pet food labels, although that term does not have an official definition either. AAFCO has developed a feed term definition for what types of ingredients can be considered “natural” and “Guidelines for Natural Claims” for pet foods.  For the most part, “natural” can be construed as equivalent to a lack of artificial flavors, artificial colors, or artificial preservatives in the product. As mentioned above, artificial flavors are rarely employed anyway. Artificial colors are not really necessary, except to please the pet owner’s eye. If used, they must be from approved sources, the same as for human foods. Especially for high-fat dry products, some form of preservative must be used to prevent rancidity. Natural-source preservatives, such as mixed tocopherols (a source of vitamin E), can be used in place of artificial preservatives. However, they may not be as effective.

“Natural” is not the same as “organic.” The latter term refers to the conditions under which the plants were grown or animals were raised. There are no official rules governing the labeling of organic foods for pets at this time, but the United States Department of Agriculture is developing regulations dictating what types of synthetic additives, such as vitamins and purified amino acids, may be used in pet foods labeled as organic.

Summary
Pet owners and veterinary professionals have a right to know what they are feeding their animals. The pet food label contains a wealth of information, if one knows how to read it. Do not be swayed by the many marketing gimmicks or eye-catching claims. If there is a question about the product, contact the manufacturer or ask an appropriate regulatory agency.
Updated March 2010

Abstract American Journal of Veterinary Research March 2004, Vol. 65, No. 3, Pages 338-343

Objective—To evaluate viability of a probiotic strain of Lactobacillus acidophilusin a dry dog food, determine its ability to survive transit through the gastrointestinal tract and populate the colon, and assess its effects on intestinal and . . . → Read More: Effects of probiotic Lactobacillus in dry dog food]]> Effects of probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DSM13241 in healthy adult dogs

Abstract
American Journal of Veterinary Research
March 2004, Vol. 65, No. 3, Pages 338-343

Objective—To evaluate viability of a probiotic strain of Lactobacillus acidophilusin a dry dog food, determine its ability to survive transit through the gastrointestinal tract and populate the colon, and assess its effects on intestinal and systemic parameters.
Animals—15 adult dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were sequentially fed a dry control food for 2 weeks, the same food supplemented with > 109 L acidophilus for 4 weeks, and the control food again for 2 weeks. Fecal score was assessed daily, and fecal and blood samples were collected for enumeration of bacterial populations and measurement of hematologic variables.

Results—Recovery of L acidophilus from the supplemented food was 71% and 63% at the start and end of the study, respectively, indicating that the bacteria were able to survive manufacture and storage. The probiotic bacterium was detected in feces via ribotyping and RNA gene sequencing during the probiotic administration phase but not 2 weeks after cessation of administration. Administration of the probiotic-supplemented food was associated with increased numbers of fecal lactobacilli and decreased numbers of clostridial organisms. There were significant increases in RBCs, Hct, hemoglobin concentration, neutrophils, monocytes, and serum immunoglobin G concentration and reductions in RBC fragility and serum NO concentration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These data indicate that L acidophilus can be successfully incorporated into a dry dog food, survive transit through the canine gastrointestinal tract, and populate the colon and are associated with local and systemic changes. This probiotic bacterium may have the potential to enhance intestinal health and improve immune function in dogs. ( Am J Vet Res 2004;65:338–343)

Marie-Louise A. Baillon, PhD Zoe V. Marshall-Jones, PhD Richard F. Butterwick, PhD
WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition, Waltham-on-the-Wolds, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 4RT, UK. (Baillon, Marshall-Jones, Butterwick) doi: 10.2460/ajvr.2004.65.338

Your dog’s nutritional needs. The information in this pamphlet is based on Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, a technical report issued by the National Research Council as part of its Animal . . . → Read More: Dog Nutrition]]> How much should I feed my dog? Does the food I’m providing meet my dog’s nutritional needs? Click here for the pamphlet on Dog Nutrition

Your dog’s nutritional needs.
The information in this pamphlet is based on Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, a technical report issued by the National Research Council as part of its Animal Nutrition Series. The Food and Drug Administration relies on information in the report to regulate and ensure the safety of pet foods. Scientists who study the nutritional needs of animals use the Animal Nutrition Series to guide future research. The series is also used by animal owners, caretakers, and veterinarians to develop specialized diets for individual animals.

Calorie requirement for dogs calculator.

Website to analyze a commercial dog food:

www.dogfoodanalysis.com independent dog food information and reviews. To look up a specific food alphabetically, click http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog-food-index-a.html

The 2010 Whole Dog Journal’s recommended dry food list. WDJ dog food recommendations.

Because of the Food Recall by Menu foods, we encourage any dog or cat owner to consider carefully their food choices. Some people have begun to feed their dogs a homemade diet. Unfortunately, many of these are no more than feeding what the owner thinks a dog needs or wants and are not nutritionally balanced. Dogs like the diets because they are palatable however, just like a toddler, dogs are not able to make correct long term feed ingredient choices.Resources for learning about feed formulation for canines:

Diet formulation resources : guides to homemade diets.

The Collins Guide to Dog Nutrition by Donald R. Collins DVM
Complete textbook for formulating a balanced diet based on a large combination of possible ingredients and tailored to dog’s weight. Very highly recommended. I used this book for formulating diets for my two mastiffs with severe IBD.

K9 Kitchen by Monical Segal AHCW

Optimal Nutrition by Monica Segal AHCW

Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete guide to Natural health for dogs and cats (3rd ed.)

About Melamine:

Can melamine act as a marker for affected individuals?
We believe so. Since it appears to be present only in the contaminated foods, and is relatively easily detected in urine and kidneys of affected animals, melamine may be a reasonable marker of exposure to affected diets. This may help rule out dietary causes of acute renal failure. However, more information is needed to determine the validity of this hypothesis.

How can melamine be detected?
Currently, melamine is detected by mass spectrometry, which is not routinely available. However, if testing options become available, we will update this information.

Types of Pet Food 1. Dry food contains very little moisture so as feed analysis reported on bag is similar to dry matter analysis. They are formed by an extruder and are mostly low fat (~25 percent energy as fat) because the extruder . . . → Read More: Feeding Dogs for Life Stages]]> Richard Hill, MA, VetMB, PhD, DACVIM, MRCVS

Life Stages: Much overlap in requirements
Maintenance
Gestation (Pregnancy)
Lactation
Growth
Old Age
Maintenance

Types of Pet Food
1. Dry food contains very little moisture so as feed analysis reported on bag is similar to dry matter analysis. They are formed by an extruder and are mostly low fat (~25 percent energy as fat) because the extruder requires a low fat mixture. These are fine for dogs which are couch potatoes but may not contain enough fat for gestation, lactation or growth, or for dogs that undertake a lot of exercise. They may not give optimum coat quality. More expensive dry diets have fat sprayed on after extrusion and tend to contain more fat (40 percent energy as fat). They are packaged in special grease proof bags and are greasy to the touch.
2. Canned foods contain 75 percent moisture and are more expensive but usually contain more fat and protein. Multiply the analysis on the bag by four to compare with a dry diet.
3. Soft-moist and Soft-dry e.g. Kibbles and Bits. These are intermediate but mostly low fat

Differences between pet foods
Foods with different names do not necessarily differin composition. Marketin gstrategies aim to increasemarket share often by increasing number of brands and increasing shelf space.
Differences between pet foods are often small because new brand names are created with small changes in composition as a method of increasing the number of brands and because the final composition is restricted by the nutrient requirements of the animal, the need to restrict cost and to maintain palatability. Some terms such as “premium” and “super-premium” have no definition and do not guarantee better performance. The major differences are:
• Dry vs. Canned: Canned usually contains more fat and protein than dry diets
• Generic vs. proprietary: Generic diets are usually made with poorer quality ingredients and better ingredients and are usually tested on animals. “Generic” diets are inexpensive private label of local or regional manufacturers. There is no policing of label claims if only sold within the state of Florida.
• Life stage and therapeutic diets: Sometimes have different compositions but diets for puppies and diets for adult maintenance are often very similar in composition. Supplements and treats unbalance balanced diets so should be avoided or restricted to less than ten percent of the diet. Chews may be beneficial for dental hygiene.

Human food is not complete and balanced so must have supplements such as vitamins and minerals added if more than ten percent of the diet. Uncooked meat represents a likely source of infection especially in young and pregnant animals. Bones, especially spiky bones such as the vertebrae found in chicken necks can get lodged in the esophagus especially in small breeds of
dogs. Too many bones can also cause constipation.

Neutraceuticals and herbs: Quality, consistency, absorption, potency and efficacy are uncertain. Toxicity and therapeutic indices have not been established; more of a risk in young and pregnant animals. Nevertheless, likely that some of these will prove beneficial in the future.

How much food?
Adjust food intake to maintain optimum body weight and condition. Do not feed too much. The slim-line model is best. Ribs should be felt but not seen. There should be a waist visible from the side and from above. The recommendation on the back of the packet can provide a guide but there is much individual variation. Reproductive performance may be sub-optimal if animals are too fat or thin.

Pregnancy (9 weeks)
First five to six weeks: bitch should maintain an ideal body condition score during mating and early pregnancy. There is no need for increased food intake above normal. Reasons for unsuccessful mating are usually poor timing, not diet.
Last three to four weeks: Most fetal growth occurs during the last trimester so increase food intake by ten to 15 percent per week. Protein requirements are high during this period so do not feed a low protein food. A higher fat high protein canned diet can be added to the usual dry diet.

Growth diets or therapeutic diets do not always contain enough protein. Do not feed supplements. Only exception would be to add folate to the diet of Bulldogs and Rhodesian Ridgebacks. There is plenty of folate in pet foods so supplementation may not be necessary but in humans additional folate minimizes the risk of spina bifida. Supplementation may minimize the risk of spinal defects in breeds where these defects are more common.
At the end of pregnancy: Body weight should have increased ten to 15 percent and intake should be 40 to 50 percent more than usual. The gravid uterus often limits intake, however, so feed energy dense (high fat) food in small frequent meals. Most of the additional extra body weight should then be lost when she gives birth.

Eclampsia: Hypocalcaemia is observed occasionally in dogs around parturition leading to tetanus (sic), seizures and poor uterine contraction. The cause has not been established. Nevertheless, it seems wise to follow similar practices as those used to prevent milk fever in cattle (e.g.calcium supplements should not be given before parturition as it will reduce the ability of the body to respond to the calcium requirements of parturition.) This is an emergency. Treatment consists of slow intravenous administration of ten percent calcium gluconate and limiting pups suckling (raise pups with milk replacer to minimize milk needs).

Lactation: Food intake increases with milk production to a peak three to four weeks after whelping. Water intake increases proportionately so free access to water is essential. Amount of increase varies with size of litter to as much as three or four times normal. Frequent meals of an energy dense (high fat) high protein food are recommended. Diets should also contain some carbohydrate for optimum lactose production.

Bitches milk is best!
•   Colostrum contains antibodies so must ensure pups get colostrums or severe risk of overwhelming infection is present.
•   Bitch’s milk is twice the energy density and contains more protein, fat, calcium and less lactose than cow’s milk.
•   Breast milk varies in composition during lactation (early milk contains almost lo lactose).
The enzymes and transporters in the puppy intestine that digest and absorb nutrients like lactose are switched on and off in a programmed fashion, so diarrhea and/or constipation are possible if milk replacer or pet food is different from that expected by the pup at any
particular age.
•   Milk also contains other substances such as epidermal growth factor that may influence the development of the puppy intestine.

Orphan Rearing
•   Feed with warm milk replacer (e.g. Esbilac or using homemade recipe: 1⁄2 cup cow’s milk, 2 egg yolks, 1⁄2 tablet Centrum Junior, 1 tsp dicalsium phosphate).
•   Volume per day is about 15 percent of body weight during first week then 25 percent during subsequent weeks assuming the food contains approximately 1 kcal/mL.
•   Monitor body weight daily. Puppies must not lose weight.
•   Keep pups warm and humid (85-90oF, > 50 percent humidity).
•   Establish feeding frequency from pups crying. Do not wake to feed. Feed often first day (every two to four hours) and then can reduce to four times daily and can leave overnight if kept warm.
•   Stimulate to defecate and urinate after feeding.
•   If possible, foster pups on another bitch. Alternatively, divide litter in two and alternate during day between bitch and orphan feeding.

Neonatal Feeding
• Days 1-3: suckle 40 times daily for total of ten to 15 hours per day.
• Day 4: suckling more efficient so only eight hours per day.
• Days 10-12: Eyes open, start to examine solid food.
• Week 3: Offer moist palatable energy dense food four times daily. Remove any left after an hour.
• Gradually increase time away from dam and then wean at seven to eight weeks of age. Reduce bitch’s food for two days prior to weaning to cut milk production.

Growth
•   Energy requirements: from three to four months on, feed about the same amount of food as that required for maintenance by parents. Amount of food required by Great Dane pups and adults is greater than that required by other breeds of similar weight.
•   Rate of growth: very variable depending on size. Larger breeds take longer to reach adult weight (Yorkshire Terriers: ~ eight months; Newfoundlands: ~ 18 months to two years).
Limit rate of growth in large breeds to minimize hip dysplasia and growth deformities. Keep lean. Restricted intake does not affect final height, length, bone size or muscle mass.
•   Puppy Food Composition:
o Feed an increased protein and increased fat growth diet up to four to six months
of age. “Large breed dog diets” contain less fat to limit the rate of growth. There
is currently no evidence that these diets cause less orthopedic problems than
higher fat diets if intake is restricted to prevent rapid weight gain.
o Calcium should be close to one percent DM (3 mg/kcal) with a CA:P ration of
1:1 to 2:1. Pups fed all meat diets and insufficient calcium develops osteoporosis
and pathological fractures. Large breed dogs fed too much calcium can develop
osteochondritis dessicans. Most commercial puppy foods including those
marketed for large breeds contain this amount of calcium. The calcium content in
adult maintenance diets are sometimes closer or above two percent DM. Amount
of protein has no effect on orthopedic problems.
o Do not feed supplements especially in large breed dogs. Large dogs eat more
food so eat more vitamins and minerals. Increased calcium and vitamin D may be
detrimental.

Neutering and Spaying
Increased risk of obesity because reduces energy requirement by one third and increases appetite.
Old Dogs
• Keeping a dog lean is the best method for prolonging age
• Antioxidants may be beneficial; doses are uncertain however and some diets have these added so that additional supplementation should only be administered under veterinary supervision
o Vitamin E up to 10-15 IU/kg daily or 100 IU/kg weekly by month
o Vitamin C needs to be given three to four times daily to increase blood levels
• Energy needs decline with age
• If have disease then may need special diet; most require extra protein and not less • If thin needs extra calories, if obese needs less
• Needs to maintain intake of essential nutrients

Recommendations:
• Feed a national brand pet food that has been tested using AAFCO approved feeding and is complete and balanced for the particular life state (e.g. reproduction or growth or adult maintenance).
• Do not feed supplements. A pet food that is complete and balanced does not require
supplements. Do not feed extra meat, calcium or vitamin supplements especially in growing or pregnant animals.

• Treats are ok but try to keep to a minimum. The bulk of an animal’s diet should come from pet food.
• If feeding mostly human food, make sure it is cooked and balanced for the particular life stage.
• Coat quality can be poor if dogs are fed a low fat inexpensive dry food. To improve fat content of the diet, do not add meat to the diet. It is safer to use a more expensive high fat dry diet or to add a canned diet to the dry diet. High fat is here defined as greater than 40 percent energy which is equivalent on the label to greater than five percent fat for a canned diet, greater than 13 percent in a semi-moist diet and greater than 18 percent fat in a dry diet.
• Do not restrict protein or other essential nutrients unless specific disease necessitates this.
• Keep animals lean!!!

Dog Owners and Breeders Symposium
July 28, 2001
University of Florida
College of Veterinary Medicine

What factors are important?

1) Type of Exercise: Endurance vs. sprinting – most working dogs are endurance athletes

2) Training: Slow increases in exercise and slow adjustment to new nutritional needs are best. Being a “weekend warrior” and suddenly increasing exercise and diet can result in injuries and . . . → Read More: Nutrition for Working Dogs]]> Richard Hill, MA, VetMB, PhD, DACVIM, MRCVS
Waltham Associate Professor of Clinical Nutrition

What factors are important?

1) Type of Exercise: Endurance vs. sprinting – most working dogs are endurance athletes

2) Training: Slow increases in exercise and slow adjustment to new nutritional needs are best. Being a “weekend warrior” and suddenly increasing exercise and diet can result in
injuries and digestive upset.

What is unique about the exercising dog?

1) Dogs do not get heart attacks and do not need to worry about increased fat

2) Dogs burn fat twice as fast as people do

3) All dogs’ muscle fibers burn fat whereas some muscle fibers in horses and people do not
4) Stamina improves when dogs are fed a high fat diet (50 percent energy). This is theopposite of people who need increased carbohydrate for stamina

Effect of diet on stamina in Beagles on a treadmill (Downey et al. 1989)

5) Dogs sprint faster when fed increased fat
6) Dogs “tie up” less when fed high fat diets

How much protein?
7) Dogs require at least 30 percent energy as protein for endurance exercise to prevent anemia
8. Dogs do not require more than 24 percent energy as protein for sprint exercise

Types of pet foods:

9) Dry foods are formed by an extruder and are mostly low fat (~25 percent energy as fat) because the extruder requires a low fat mixture. These are fine for dogs which are couchpotatoes but do not contain enough fat for working dogs undertaking endurance exercise.

More expensive dry diets have fat sprayed on after extrusion and tend to contain more fat(40 percent energy as fat). They are packaged in special grease proof bags and are greasyto the touch. These should provide the staple diet for a working dog. It is enough on its own if the dog is not working. It is not necessary to feed diets designed for large breed dogs.

10) Canned foods contain 75 percent moisture and are more expensive but usually contain more fat and protein. The analysis on the bag cannot be compared with that on a dry food because the amount of water is greater in canned food. For a rough comparison, multiply the analysis on the canned food by four to compare with that of a dry diet.

Working dogs which are normally fed dry food should be supplemented with canned food when they are working. Foods designed for growing dogs mostly contain increased protein and fat.

11) Soft-moist and soft-dry (e.g. Kibbles and Bits) are intermediate but mostly low fat and
are not suitable for working dogs
Note that high fat is here defined as > 40 percent energy which is equivalent on the label to
> 5 percent fat for a canned diet, > 13 percent fat in a semi-moist diet and > 18 percent fat
in a dry diet. High protein is defined as > 30 percent energy which is equivalent on the
label to > 9 percent in a high fat canned diet of > 33 percent in a high fat dry diet.

Differences between pet foods
Differences between pet foods are often small. Foods with difference names do not necessarily
differ in composition. Some terms such as “premium” and “super-premium” have no definition
and do not guarantee better performance. The major differences are:

12) Dry vs. canned: Canned usually contain more fat and protein than dry diets.
13) Generic vs. proprietary: Generic diets are usually made with poorer quality ingredients
and are not necessarily tested on animals. Proprietary (popular & premium) brands made
by national manufacturers are made with better ingredients and are usually tested on
animals. “Generic” diets are inexpensive private label of a local or regional
manufacturer. Pet food is well regulated but there is no policing of label claims within
the state of Florida. It is therefore better to use a food which is sold nationally.
14) Life stage and therapeutic diets: These sometimes have different compositions and
should be used only with a veterinary recommendation.

Supplements and treats
15) Unbalance balanced diets. Do not feed supplements. Treats should comprise < 10
percent of the diet
a. Too much meat can result in thin bones and fractures
b. Too much liver can cause stiff neck and joints
c. Too much calcium can cause joint problems
16) Some treats and supplements may be beneficial
a. Chews: may be beneficial for dental hygiene
b. Antioxidants may be beneficial especially in dogs which are not properly trained
or are eating a lot of extra fat. Some manufacturers are including increased
antioxidants. If feeding a diet without increased antioxidants, 10-15 IU/kg
vitamin E (as alphatocopheryl acetate) may be given daily of 100 IU/kg every
week by mouth. Vitamin C may also be beneficial but the dose is less clear. It is
probably best to give vitamin C immediately before exercise as it does not last
long in the blood and 100-200 mg may be sufficient for the average medium to
large sized dog.
c. Glucosamine or green lipped mussel powder may help dogs with arthritis but
should only be used in consultation with your veterinarian

d. Fish oil may reduce inflammation of the feet in dogs working in snow. Somediets already contain fish oil and should not be supplemented.

Human food
17) Not complete and balanced so must have supplements such as vitamins and minerals
added if more than ten percent of the diet. This is not recommended unless diet has been
formulated to be balanced by a professional with nutritional experience.
18) Uncooked meat represents a likely source of infection especially in young, pregnant,
infirm animals or stressed animals such as working dogs.
19) Bones, especially spiky bones such as the vertebrae found in chicken necks can get
lodged in the esophagus. Too many bones can also cause constipation.
Neutraceuticals and herbs
Quality, consistency, absorption, potency and efficacy are uncertain. Toxicity and therapeutic
index have not been established. Some may prove beneficial in the future but are not currently
recommended.

How much to feed?
Adjust food intake to maintain optimum body weight and condition. Do not feed too much. The
slim-line model is best. Ribs should be felt but not seen. There should be a waist visible from
the side and from above. The recommendation on the back of the packet can provide a guide but
there is much individual variation. There is some evidence that lean dogs perform better than
heavier ones. Lean dogs also live longer and have fewer joint problems.
Weigh your dog every two weeks and keep a record. Always use the same scale and do it before
a meal but after urinating and defecating at the same time each day and not after exercise.
Sudden changes in body weight are an indication of dehydration. Slow changes will give some
indication of whether you are feeding too little or too much. Also keep a record of body
condition score. Take a photo for comparison so you can see how things change over time.
Your dog should have a body condition score of 5 on the 9 point Purina scale.
A working dog such as a Collie working sheep needs almost twice as much food as a couch
potato pet dog. A racing sled dog has the most extreme work out and may need twice as much
again. When starting training, add 1⁄2 16 oz can for each 8 oz cup of dry food normally fed. Over
three days, reduce dry by half and double canned food. Then increase canned food as necessary
to maintain weight, body condition and stamina.

When and how often to feed?
There is little data on this subject. The custom of racing sled dogs is probably the best one to
follow: dogs race for 4-6 hours then take a rest for 2-4 hours during which a high fat and protein
snack is fed. Dogs then race for an additional 4-6 hours before eating a full meal. Exercise
markedly affects stomach and intestinal function. It is wise, therefore, not to exercise until 2-4
hours after a large meal.

Water
Dehydration must be avoided. Offer water continuously during exercise. Pet dogs on average
need 50 ml/kg per day (2-5 pints per day for a 45-100 lb working dog). Working dogs may need
4 or 5 times that amount (1-3 gallons/day). Adding three level tablespoons of table sugar to a
liter of water may help water absorption and will increase the recuperation of dogs at rest stops.

Salt and other electrolytes
There should be enough salt in the food. Salt may improve water absorption in dehydrated
animals. A recipe for oral electrolyte replacement solutions is provided below which can be used
if a dog becomes dehydrated but a recent study showed no benefit of such a solution over plain
water in working dogs. Giving sodium bicarbonate (a “shake”) before exercise also has been
shown not to be beneficial in dogs.

Oral rehydration recipe (level spoonfuls):
To one liter of drinking water add:
3 tablespoons of table sugar or 1 1⁄2 tablespoons of glucose
1⁄2 teaspoon of table salt
1⁄4 teaspoon of salt substute
1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda
Use immediately.

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: “Bloat”
20) Predisposing factors suggested by epidemiology (Glickman et al.):
a. Large size
b. Large depth to width ration for body conformation
c. Male gender
d. Being underweight
e. Eating only one meal per day
f. A faster rate of eating
g. Fearful or nervous temperament
h. An event perceived by the owner as “stressful” to their dog
21) Reduced risk:
a. Table scraps or canned food included with a dry dog food
b. Happy and easy going character
22) Recommendation:
a. Feed twice daily
b. Add some canned food to dry diet
c. Avoid stress associated with eating
d. Do not allow to be underweight
Recommendation:
23) Feed a national brand pet food that says on the label that it has been tested using AAFCO
approved feeding and is complete and balanced.
24) Feed a high fat dry food for maintenance. Add a canned food during periods of work.
25) Feed enough to keep dog lean.
26) Do not feed supplements such as meat, bones, calcium or vitamins
27) Give 100 IU/kg vitamin E once a week by mouth. Give 100 mg vitamin C one hour
before exercise and repeat every 6-8 hours during exercise.
28) Keep treats to a minimum (<10 percent of the diet). Most of the diet should be pet food.
29) Give a dental chew once daily.
30) Make sure access to water at least every half hour during exercise.
31) Feed at least four hours before exercise and after exercise.
32) Rest dogs after 4-6 hours work: give sugar water and a high protein high fat snack.

Dog Owners and Breeders Symposium
July 28, 2001
University of Florida
College of Veterinary Medicine