Today, as more people are getting health conscious about their diet and health, so have they been paying attention to the health needs of their dogs. Many pet food companies are now coming up with diets free from meat-by-products, artificial colorings and preservatives. The "healthier choice" of dog food now contains ingredients such as Avocado, Garlic, Cranberry, Manuka honey, Flaxseed oil, Chlorella, Apples... and the list just goes on! Today's dog food appeals much more appealing and nutritious than our own diet!

Most of the information about these natural ingredients we know of are from studies done on human but fruits for dogs? Little is known of their safety in animals and whether their benefits in humans hold the same for our animal companion.

Here is a brief introduction of the benefits and potential toxicities of some of the more common natural ingredients found in our pet foods.

Avocado

Rich in antioxidants, folate, potassium, vitamin A, C and E amidst other vitamins and minerals with its mono - and polysaturated (and therefore low content), this cholesterol-free and almost sodium-free fruit is used traditionally in humans to treat skin, digestive and circulatory problems. However, it does contain a toxin called "persin" in the leaves, fruit, bark, and seed that has shown produce heart disease and mastitis in dogs, cattle, horses, goats, rabbits, birds and fish. From a scientific point of view, there has been no scientific report on the short and long term effect of consuming dog food that contains avocado. But personally, I do not recommend giving fresh avocado as a safety precaution in dogs.

Flaxseed Oil and Essential Fatty Acids (EFA)

Omega 3 fatty acids and Omega 6 fatty acids are two of the most commonly known essential fatty acids (EFA) found in animal fats, flaxseed oil, sunflower seeds and canola oil. One of the most well-known benefits of these fatty acids is their role in maintenance of healthy skin and coat for our dog.

However, because EFAs do have specific effects on the body consuming too much and in incorrect ratio, it may lead to fatty stools and diarrhea, clotting problems and relative deficiency of vitamin E. It has been determined that the omega fatty acids need to be consumed by dogs and humans in an optimum ratio for their health benefits.

Cranberry

Rich in a potent antioxidant called proanthocyanidin; it has been increasingly popular in veterinary medicine as adjunctive treatment and preventative for bladder, urinary tract infections and other related conditions. It is commonly added in pet food for urinary benefits. There is not enough scientific veterinary studies on its benefits but also no reported harmful side-effects.

Garlic

The most common use of garlic in pets is its use in flea and tick prevention and its treatment against intestinal worms. However, there has been no real studies done to prove its antiparasitic effects but there are lots of anecdotal (and equally debatable) reports regarding its efficacy in keeping your dog pest-free the natural way. Studies have shown that a 5g/kg of garlic fed to a dog produced toxic signs but no studies have been done at lower doses. A tiny to small amount of garlic given to dogs generally is considered safe.

As the whole natural craze spreads from human food to dog food now, it provides our animal friend some promise of natural benefits we humans have enjoyed. However, in nature, danger exists in alongside goodness. It is always wise to find out how safe natural is before feeding to your dog companion.

For a safer, wholesome and natural diet for your dog, check out Dog Food Secrets here. You will discover that a healthy diet is so simple to follow and your dog friend will enjoy it too!