Navigating the world of pet food can be overwhelming, especially when your dog has specific dietary needs like Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD). This is a common challenge faced by many pet owners in Australia and beyond, as they seek to provide the best nutrition for their furry companions. The selection of dog food has expanded significantly, offering a wide range of formulas, but discerning quality and suitability requires careful consideration, particularly when dealing with potential contaminants and allergens. This article delves into the experiences and recommendations of pet owners and explores various brands, focusing on their suitability for dogs with sensitive digestive systems, drawing from real-world experiences and expert reviews.
When choosing a dog food, especially for a pet with a sensitive stomach or IBD, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients and sourcing. Many owners turn to premium brands, hoping for superior quality, but as one owner shared, even a well-regarded brand like «Timberwolf Wild and Natural» can present issues. A recent experience with a bag of “Sierra Mountain Roasted Lamb” formula from this brand left the owner concerned due to a different smell and significantly smaller kibble size compared to previous purchases. This change in product consistency, coupled with the dog’s subsequent adverse reactions, including increased grass-eating and signs of distress, prompted a deeper investigation into the food’s quality and potential impact on canine health.
The Impact of Food Changes on Canine Health
The experience highlights how even minor changes in a pet food formula can have a noticeable effect on a dog’s well-being. For dogs with IBD, such as the dog in this account, the digestive system is already compromised, making them more susceptible to adverse reactions from ingredient variations or contaminants. The owner reported that after consuming the new bag of lamb formula, the dog, who typically did not exhibit distress after meals, began eating grass excessively and appeared unwell. This behavior is often a sign of gastrointestinal discomfort, indicating that the food may not be agreeing with the dog’s sensitive system. The refusal to eat the food altogether was a significant red flag, as the dog had a history of eating even when unwell. This situation underscores the importance of monitoring a pet’s behavior and reactions to their food, especially when switching formulas or brands.
Exploring Australian-Made and Owned Brands
In light of these concerns, the owner emphasizes the value of supporting Australian-made and owned pet food brands. Several brands are recommended for their quality ingredients and commitment to canine health. “Meals For Mutts” is noted as a reputable Australian brand, with some of its products also being exported. Another strong contender is “Ivory Coat,” which, although recently acquired by a Chinese company, maintains its Australian manufacturing base. The Kangaroo and Lamb formulas from Ivory Coat are particularly praised for their use of real kangaroo meat, a lean and nutrient-rich protein source. This contrasts with some American-made kangaroo formulas that may use less desirable meat sources or fillers like lentils to boost protein content artificially. The owner expresses optimism that Ivory Coat will continue to offer high-quality products, though acknowledges potential price increases and ingredient changes as the brand expands globally.
Canidae: A Globally Recognized Option
“Canidae” is another American-made brand that receives high praise for its quality and commitment to sourcing local ingredients. Their “Canidae Pure” and “Canidae All Life Stages” formulas are particularly popular, often selling out quickly. The “All Life Stages” formula is available in a 20kg bag for $99.95 at Pet Circle, indicating a competitive price point for a substantial supply. For senior dogs, the “Canidae Pure Meadow Senior” formula is recommended for its comprehensive supplement profile tailored to the needs of aging canines. The owner shares a personal anecdote about elderly dogs transformed by this formula, going from lethargic and unwell to seemingly youthful and active. This anecdotal evidence, coupled with the brand’s reputation, positions Canidae as a strong option for owners seeking to improve their dog’s vitality and health. The “My Pet Warehouse” also stocks the “Canidae Pure Meadow” Senior formula, alongside other “Canidae Pure” varieties like Wild Boar and a weight management formula.
Nutro and Meals for Mutts: Promising Alternatives
“Nutro” is also mentioned for its new grain-free and Frontier formulas, which are manufactured in Australia. One owner found success with the Nutro Essential formula, purchasing it at half price and observing that their dog “Patch” not only loved it but also stopped exhibiting problematic behaviors like eating grass and excessive vocalization for food. This immediate positive response suggests that Nutro’s formulations can be highly palatable and well-tolerated. Additionally, the owner plans to try the “Meals For Mutts” new CN Vital Health Hypoallergenic Holistic Remedy Diet Turkey & Veggies, indicating a continued effort to find a reliable “go-to” food for Patch, especially for managing his IBD flare-ups.
Addressing Concerns About Toxins in Pet Food
A significant aspect of the discussion revolves around the presence of contaminants and toxins in pet food. A study from the previous year tested various popular American pet foods, including Canidae and “The Honest Kitchen,” finding that Canidae performed well, as did their sister brand “Under The Sun.” However, several formulas from “Taste of the Wild” (TOTW) showed high levels of contaminants and toxins, particularly the Pacific Stream Smoked Salmon and High Prairie formulas. Other brands like “Holistic Select,” “Wellness,” and “Earthborn Holistic” were also identified in the top ten worst dry dog foods for toxins in both March 2017 and August testing.
To further inform consumers, the owner recommends consulting the Australian “Pet Food Review” website. This platform not only reviews dog foods available in Australia but also names the company responsible for pet and baby food testing in America. The site serves as a valuable resource for identifying foods high in toxins and contaminants. It also flags problematic products, such as “Baxters” kibble and treats sold at Woolworths, which were linked to the deaths of healthy puppies and adult dogs within 24-48 hours of consumption. Despite these warnings, Woolworths has been slow to remove all affected products, leaving some Baxter formulas, including Senior and Adult, still on shelves. This situation highlights the critical need for consumers to be vigilant and informed about the potential risks associated with certain pet food brands.
The journey to finding the perfect food for a sensitive dog is ongoing, but by staying informed about ingredient quality, sourcing, and potential contaminants, owners can make more confident choices. Exploring brands like Canidae, Ivory Coat, Meals For Mutts, and Nutro, while remaining aware of independent reviews and testing data, offers a path toward ensuring our canine companions receive safe and nourishing diets.
