Dogs sometimes need a food with high fiber content, usually due to the fact that they are suffering from intestinal issues or problems in their digestive tract. While it’s true all kinds and brands of dog food contain fiber, it is the varying sources and the amounts that are the most important factors that distinguish a high fiber dog food from an “ordinary” type. You will find that regular, commercial dog foods contain about two to four percent of crude fiber while high fiber brands contain at least 10 percent.

Some of the ingredients you will find in high fiber dog food include corn and its byproducts, soybean hulls, beet pulp, rice, and whole grains and cereals like barley and oats. Fresh fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and sweet potatoes are also often included in dog foods with higher fiber content.

You’ve probably heard of the importance of fiber in our diet but many pet owners don’t realize the impact it can have on their dogs. Problems like obesity, constipation, and anal gland disease are all often treated with a high fiber diet, which is said to reduce the risk of colon cancer. High fiber ingredients are usually lower in calories and will cause your dog to feel fuller longer, but without the added calories that contribute to weight gain.

The bulkier your dog’s stool, the more stimulated their intestinal tract will be, which will help it digest food more easily. Fiber also absorbs liquid and can help regulate your pet’s bowel movement habits if they’re having difficulty in that department. And, if you’ve ever seen your dog scooting across the living room floor you may be aware of anal gland disease, in which two small glands located on either side of the anus responsible for secreting fluids become abscessed, infected, or impacted. Changing to a high fiber food will create bulkier stools, which in turn put pressure on the glands and in many cases, solve the problem. Bulkier stools will also help to solve the problem of constipation because of the extra stimulation to the intestines.

But, as is the case with just about anything, too much fiber can be bad for your dog’s health. Besides diarrhea and excessive flatulence, too much fiber can inhibit the way the body absorbs the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals it needs.

3 Top High Fiber Brands:

Here are three of the best brands of high fiber food based on ingredients, price, and consumer opinion:

- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Calorie Control CC 26 High Fiber Dog Food: This formula for adult dogs is designed to promote weight loss in addition to providing more fiber. The food provides 18.30% of crude fiber and it must be purchased with a prescription from a veterinarian. Prices range from $20 for a 6-pound bag to $74 for the 33-pound size.

- Doctors Foster and Smith: Averaging around $10 for a 5 pound bag and $35 for the 23 pound size, Adult Lite Dog Food with chicken and brown rice by Doctors Foster and Smith contains 13% crude fiber. Ingredients in this reduced calorie, higher fiber food include apples, barley, brown rice, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Light Dog Food: This dry dog food contains 18.5% crude fiber and ingredients such as soybean mill run, soybean meal, ground whole grain corn, and several vitamins. A five-pound bag averages $14 and the largest-40 pound size is $50.

Although it may seem like a good idea for you to switch to a high fiber food for your pet’s health, always consult with your own veterinarian first as there may be other underlying health issues to consider. When switching brands or types of dog foods after the approval of your vet, the process should be a gradual one to avoid stomach upset or the risk of causing additional digestive problems.

Health Disclaimer: Keep in mind that these are opinions only and are meant to provide general information. The content in this article should not be interpreted as medical advice. You should always check with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet.

Visit my blog to learn more about high fiber dog food. You’ll also read about how to effectively compare dog foods and ways to make your own dog food.

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