As a dog owner, you likely want to ensure your furry friend is getting all the nutrition he needs to stay happy and healthy. One common question dog owners have is what foods can help fill up their dog and keep him satisfied between meals.
What is the best dog food to keep dogs full?
The best dog foods to keep your dog feeling full and satisfied contain high-quality sources of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Here are some top choices:
- Dry kibble with meat as the first ingredient – Look for real meat, poultry or fish as the first ingredient. Meat provides protein to build muscle and makes dogs feel fuller longer.
- Canned dog food with meat chunks – The high moisture content is beneficial and meat chunks provide plenty of protein.
- Nutrient-dense dog food with legumes – Ingredients like lentils, peas and sweet potatoes provide complex carbs and dietary fiber to help dogs feel satiated.
Additionally, some healthy extras can help provide lasting fullness for dogs when added to their usual kibble or canned food:
- Some cooked egg – Eggs are very nutritious and high in protein.
- Sardines – These small fish are packed with protein, healthy fats and various vitamins and minerals.
- Pumpkin – A great source of fiber to help your dog feel fuller longer.
- Green beans – Low calorie, they provide important vitamins.
What human foods can I feed my dog to help fill him up?
While commercial dog food should make up the bulk of your dog’s diet, there are some safe human foods you can mix in to provide extra nutrition and fullness between meals. Here are some healthy human food options:
- Greek yogurt – High in protein, calcium and probiotics.
- Oatmeal – Whole oats provide lasting energy and dietary fiber.
- Peanut butter – Just a spoonful provides protein and healthy fats.
- Sweet potatoes – An excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese and dietary fiber.
- Bananas – These contain potassium, vitamin B6 and fiber.
- Blueberries – Low in calories and high in antioxidants.
- Apples – A crunchy, refreshing source of fiber.
- Carrots – Packed with vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium and fiber.
- Green beans – Nutritious and low in calories.
When mixing in any human foods, moderation is key. Too many additions or table scraps can unbalance your dog’s diet. Follow your veterinarian’s portion guidelines for any extras.
What are some cheap filler foods I can use?
If you are looking for budget-friendly options to help fill out your dog’s meals, here are some inexpensive foods you likely have on hand:
- Rice – Cooked white or brown rice can be added to kibble. It provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Pasta – Whole grain or protein-enriched pasta can give an energy boost.
- Oats – Plain oatmeal is a good source of dietary fiber to help dogs feel full.
- Potatoes – Cooked white or sweet potatoes are safe for dogs in moderation.
- Canned pumpkin – An affordable option that provides vitamin A and fiber.
- Frozen mixed vegetables – A variety is ideal for added nutrients.
- Canned sardines – A protein-rich fish that is budget-friendly.
- Scrambled eggs – Cook plain eggs for extra protein on a budget.
When choosing cost-effective fillers, aim for healthy whole food options instead of processed choices. Avoid overusing any filler foods and make sure your dog’s meals are still well-balanced.
What are some high-calorie foods I can use?
If your dog is very active or needs to gain weight, you can incorporate some higher calorie options into his diet. Some healthy high-calorie choices include:
- Peanut butter – Just a spoonful provides protein and healthy fats.
- Cheese – Try small amounts of low-fat varieties. Provides protein, calcium and fat.
- Yogurt – Opt for unsweetened plain yogurt for protein and probiotics.
- Oils – Use sparingly. Olive, coconut or fish oil boosts calories.
- Nuts – Unseasoned, unsalted nuts can provide protein and good fats.
- Eggs – Scrambled, hard-boiled or added to food.
- Canned fish – Such as sardines, mackerel and salmon.
- Avocado – Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Bananas – Provide carbohydrates and potassium for energy.
Always introduce high-calorie foods gradually and monitor your dog for any digestive issues. Moderation is important, even for healthy fats and proteins.
What foods and scraps should I avoid giving my dog?
While many human foods are safe for dogs, some items can be harmful and should be avoided. Here are some foods and scraps to keep away from your dog:
- Chocolate
- Onions, garlic, chives
- Grapes and raisins
- Macadamia nuts
- Yeast dough
- Artificial sweeteners like xylitol
- Rhubarb leaves
- Tomato leaves and stems
- Raw eggs
- Raw meat and fish
- Salt and salty foods
- Moldy or spoiled food
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Cooked bones
- Avocado skin and pit
Avoid giving table scraps with lots of fat, seasoning, sauces or sugar. Stick to plain, healthy human foods in moderation alongside your dog’s regular diet.
What are some tips for transitioning my dog to a new food?
When changing up your dog’s diet or introducing a new type of food, follow these tips to prevent digestive upset:
- Go slow – Mix a small amount of the new food in with the old food, gradually increasing the ratio over 4-7 days.
- Try a new protein or fiber source one at a time.
- Make changes gradually if increasing fiber.
- Stick to feeding guidelines – Don’t overfeed.
- Keep your dog hydrated.
- Exercise as normal.
- Monitor stool consistency and your dog’s digestion.
- Ask your veterinarian for advice if issues arise.
Transitioning slowly and making one change at a time will give your dog’s digestive system time to adjust.
How often should I feed my dog?
Most adult dogs do well with two meals per day. Puppies may need three or four feedings a day. Here are some general feeding frequency guidelines based on age:
| Dog’s Age | Ideal Feeding Frequency |
|---|---|
| 8 – 12 weeks | 4 meals per day |
| 3 – 6 months | 3 meals per day |
| 6 – 12 months | 2 meals per day |
| 1 – 7 years | 2 meals per day |
| 7 years and older | 2 meals per day (may need smaller portions) |
When in doubt, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations. Feedings may need to be more or less frequent for some dogs based on health conditions, activity level, and other factors.
How much should I feed my dog per meal?
The amount you should feed your dog per meal depends on his age, size, activity level, and calorie needs. As a general guideline:
- Start with the suggested feeding amount on your dog food’s packaging.
- Adjust amounts based on your dog’s body condition – increase or decrease as needed to maintain an ideal weight.
- Highly active dogs require more calories and larger portions.
- Senior dogs often do better with smaller, more frequent meals.
- Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for dogs with certain health conditions.
Monitor your dog’s body weight and energy levels. Increase portion sizes if he seems too thin or lethargic. Decrease portions if weight gain becomes an issue.
What are some signs my dog is not getting enough to eat?
If your dog seems constantly hungry or acts very food-motivated, he may not be getting adequate nutrition. Other signs of insufficient calorie intake include:
- Weight loss
- Ribs, spine or hips becoming visible or prominent
- Loss of energy and appetite
- Scavenging or eating stool
- Aggressive behavior around food
- Poor coat and skin condition
Schedule a veterinary visit if you notice any of these issues. Your vet can check for underlying medical problems and recommend dietary adjustments as needed.
How can I slow down my dog when he eats too fast?
Some dogs eat their meals so quickly they swallow air or fail to properly chew their food. This can lead to digestive issues. Here are some tips to slow down a fast eater:
- Invest in a puzzle feeder or slow feed dog bowl – These tools force dogs to eat more slowly.
- Add a ball or rock to the bowl so your dog has to eat around it.
- Place a cookie sheet or other barrier in the bowl to create a food maze.
- Mix in green beans or low-sodium canned food to add bulk.
- Scatter kibble across a cookie sheet or lawn instead of a bowl.
- Offer food frozen or slightly moistened to make your dog chew it longer.
You can also train your dog to wait patiently and take his time during meals. This will take consistency and positive reinforcement.
Should I give my dog treats in addition to meals?
Treats in moderation are perfectly fine for most dogs. Here are some tips for giving safe, healthy treats:
- Choose low-calorie options like baby carrots or apple slices.
- Cut back on kibble a bit to account for treat calories.
- Aim for treats making up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
- Look for treats without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
- Consider lower-fat or vegetable-based options.
- Always supervise dogs when giving any treat or chew.
Avoid too many fatty or sugary treats. And be cautious with any cooked bone treats, which can splinter and cause injury.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog food and healthy supplemental foods is key to keeping your furry friend satisfied between meals. High-quality proteins, complex carbs and dietary fiber will help provide lasting fullness. Mix in small amounts of nutritious human foods for variety. Pay attention to your dog’s needs, activity level and vet recommendations when deciding on portions. With the right diet, your dog can maintain a healthy weight and get all the nutrients he requires.