Why add fiber to dog food?
Fiber is not considered an essential nutrient in your dog’s diet, but it is present in almost every commercial dog food. While dogs do not derive any energy from fiber, adding fiber to a diet improves colon health, helps with weight management, and helps with diarrhea, constipation, and diabetes mellitus. Some fiber is fermented into fatty acids by the “good” bacteria in the intestine. These fatty acids will aid in preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. They will also help the colon cells to recover from injury and possibly help reduce the risk of colon cancer. Fiber in dog food also helps in the dietary management of obesity. By adding extra fiber (particularly slowly fermented fiber which holds its shape longer) in a specialized weight-loss diet, weight can be reduced and better maintained. The bulk of the fiber helps your dog to feel full without adding calories. Your dog will eat a satisfying meal, but consume fewer calories and thus lose weight. If rapidly fermented fiber
