If you’re wondering “can cats get dandruff?” the answer is yes, and the truth is, almost any creature with hair, fur or feathers can get it, so it’s not uncommon to spot white flakes in your cat’s fur. 

While it typically isn’t serious, conditions that can lead to cat dandruff can cause discomfort in your kitty. In more severe cases, cats may scratch or lick their skin raw, so it’s important to investigate the cause of dandruff as soon as it appears. Join us as we look at the causes and of course, how to get rid of cat dandruff.

What Is Cat Dandruff?

Dandruff is a common term used to refer to white flakes present in the cat’s haircoat. White flaky specs are most commonly observed on the back and close to the base of the tail. They may also be spotted on furniture and bedding. 

Dandruff most often occurs due to the overproduction of oil by skin cells, but there are numerous potential causes of dandruff in cats. If your cat has dandruff, you may notice her scratching more than usual.

Why Does My Cat Suffer From Dandruff?

Cats can develop dandruff for several reasons, including:

Environment 

Dry skin is a potential cause of flakes. A low humidity environment — for example, an overly warm, dry house in the winter — can also result in skin dryness. On another note, a stressful environment can lead to excessive grooming — which may also result in skin problems.

Potential Health Issues

While not always the case, cat dandruff can sometimes signal a more pressing health issue. Cats with health concerns such as obesity, diabetes, arthritis, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease and more are often unable to groom themselves properly — either because they physically cannot reach all areas of their bodies or because they don’t feel well enough to groom themselves. Cats with underlying health issues tend to be more prone to the development of skin diseases that can result in dandruff.

It’s worth remembering that cats can also be affected by parasites like mites, fleas and lice. There is even a curiously-named condition called ‘walking dandruff’ that is caused by the Cheyletiella mite. 

Additionally, dandruff can sometimes be a sign of infection. Bacterial infections or fungal infections such as ringworm are possibilities. Ringworm is highly contagious and can affect humans, so it is important to provide appropriate treatment as soon as possible.

Allergic diseases and cancers like cutaneous lymphoma must also be added to the list of potential causes of feline dandruff.

Dietary Issues

Just like humans, cats need a balanced diet to remain healthy. Sometimes, low-fat diets can result in dry flaky skin in cats. Omega fatty acids from fish oil are particularly helpful for maintaining healthy skin, so if your cat’s diet lacks these essential nutrients, this may be the cause of their dandruff.

Treating Your Cat’s Dandruff

Because the condition of your cat’s skin can tell your veterinarian a lot about their overall health, it’s a good idea to get your vet’s input regarding your cat’s dandruff before attempting treatment.

If your cat has an underlying medical condition, once it is addressed, the dandruff may resolve. For instance, if an overweight cat loses weight, their ability to reach those harder to get to grooming spots will improve; when older cats with arthritis are treated, they will be more limber and able to groom better; cats treated for renal disease will start to feel better and subsequently increase their grooming. 

Once underlying health conditions are ruled out or addressed, there are several things you can try to improve the condition of your cats’ skin. Dandruff is often easily treated at home with some slight changes to your cat’s lifestyle.

Groom Your Cat 

Gently brush your cat with a brush or comb two to three times a week to remove loose hair and softly brush out any matted hair. Always brush in the direction of hair growth. This will help keep your cat’s skin healthy and remove dead skin, plus it gives you some gentle quality time with your favorite feline!

Keep Your Cat Fit

Your cat’s overall health affects his skin health, and cats that maintain a healthy weight are able to groom themselves more effectively. We love this article on how to create a weight loss plan for cats.

Keep Your Kitty Hydrated 

The more hydrated your cat is, the healthier their skin will be! Does your cat prefer running water? There are some great water fountains you can buy to encourage them to drink more. Remember, wet food is another great way to add water to your cat’s diet. 

Feed Your Cat a Nutritious and High-Quality Diet Rich in Omega-3s

Look for cat food that contains the fish or fish oil that provides your cat with all-important omega-3 fatty acids, such as CANIDAE® Goodness for Skin & Coat. 

This dry cat food is made with real salmon as the first ingredient and contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Omega-3 is a classification of fatty acids. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a great choice for cats who have allergies or suffer from dry skin. Fatty acids help give your cat a fuller, shinier coat, and improve the overall health of your cat’s hair follicles.

Dandruff in cats can be a minor issue or a sign of a more serious health condition. If it is a persistent problem, make sure to visit your veterinarian.

Are you ready to transition your cat to Canidae? Learn more here!

The post Why Does My Cat Have Dandruff? first appeared on CANIDAE®.

1) Dogs are much more sensitive to high temperatures

Heat stroke, especially in summer, is a big problem. Some breeds can regulate their temperature better than others. For example, Border Collies and Belgian Malinois have a higher heat tolerance and can likely spend more time outside than other breeds. The breeds we worry about the most are the flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs or English Bulldogs. 

A dog’s temperature is higher than ours and they normally run around 101℉-102.5℉ degrees. Therefore, normal temperature feels hotter to them and they get to higher body temperatures faster than we do. Dogs can typically tolerate anything between 68℉ to 86℉. However, larger dogs, flat faced dogs, overweight dogs, young dogs and old dogs have a more challenging time regulating their temperature. With these dogs, I recommend decreasing that upper limit. Sometimes these types of dogs can’t tolerate anything above 80℉.  

2) Be aware of hot pavement.

Be cognizant that sometimes ground temperatures can be 50℉-60℉ hotter than the air temperature. Avoid potential hot concrete and asphalt on hot days or your dog’s paws may get burnt. This can be extremely painful. If you think your dog may have burned their paws, it is worth a vet visit. 

3) Limit Exercise in the summer

A good rule of thumb to keep them from overheating is to decrease the amount of time spent outdoors by half. If you normally play fetch for forty-five minutes, cut that down to 10-15 minutes during the summer. Try to aim for early mornings and after or around sunset when it may be the coolest. 

4) Think twice before shaving

Tips to keep your dog cool include access to shade and water at all times and not exercising your dog or leaving your dog outside when it is hot out. In the hot months, exercising your dog in the early morning and later evening is best. Make sure you are changing their water regularly, so it is not too hot. While shaving your dog in the summer may be tempting, this can actually be a bad idea. Some coats are meant to actually keep dogs cool in summer so when we shave them, it can actually make it harder for your dog to control their body temperature. Lastly, be mindful of their panting. When it becomes excessive, this is often the first sign that your dog is too hot. If you think your dog may be overheating, you can apply cool (not cold) washcloths to the non-haired areas of their body such as the face, armpits, stomach and feet until you can make it to the vet. 

5) Heat Stroke Watch Outs

Heat stroke in pets can occur within minutes, with their body temperature increasing very rapidly. Heat stroke is hyperthermia, a.k.a. a fever, or an elevation in body temperature. A normal dog’s body temperature is typically between 101℉-102.5℉ but, with heat stroke, their temperatures will typically go above 105℉. Some dogs’ temperatures can even increase to 107℉-109℉. Unfortunately, at this high of a temperature, multiple organ failure and death can occur. Some dogs cannot even tolerate air temperatures higher than 80℉. 

Symptoms include excessive panting and breathing rate. It often seems like they cannot catch their breath or calm down. Other symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, dizziness, loss of balance, incoordination, and even seizures. Dry sticky gums, abnormal gum color or bruising of the gums are also possible. 

Treatment for heat stroke should generally not be done at home. It is an emergency and a vet visit is highly recommended. At the vet, we usually place an IV and give cool IV fluids through the veins to cool down the body quickly. We also will run bloodwork to ensure all the organs are still functioning properly, and, if anything is abnormal, treat as indicated. 

6) Car Safety

The most common cause of heat stroke (hyperthermia) is leaving a dog in a car without adequate ventilation. The second most common cause is leaving your dog in a yard without access to shade or cool water on a hot day. The third most common reason is exercising your dog outside during hot temperatures. Heat stroke is an emergency and, left untreated, can cause long-term health issues and even death. 

7) Swimming Safety

A lot of dogs are good swimmers but even the best can’t paddle for extended periods. There are certain breeds that typically have a much more difficult time swimming such as greyhounds (because of their low body fat), breeds with flat faces such as English and French Bulldogs, senior dogs and dogs with mobility issues. Every dog is different and not all were born to swim. 

I like life jackets for dogs just to be safe. It is never a bad idea. In addition, a dog who is just learning how to swim will feel more comfortable and will feel more at ease having one on. Tips for choosing a good life jacket include picking one with a handle on top so you can easily grab them, one with a “D ring” on it to attach to a leash, choosing a bright color so you can easily spot them, and ensuring correct fitting (i.e. not too big or small). You also want to figure out if you need a life vest or life jacket. Life vests are typically lighter, better for pools, and easier for casual swimming. A life jacket is better for water sports, more buoyant and covers more surface area so you can see your dog better while providing a little more protection than a life vest. 

If you have a pool in your backyard and it is not fenced, I recommend slowly acclimating your dog to be comfortable in and around water and routinely showing them how to get out. It’s very important to entice your dog slowly into the water initially (with a life vest on). Create a positive experience with a toy, a treat, or a situation where your dog will enter on its own. Don’t pull or force your dog into the water. Sometimes finding a dog friend for them who is confident in the water may help your dog have extra courage. Your dog can watch by example and see how fun water can be. It can be best to start with just getting their feet wet, then progressing to shallow water, then slowly into deeper water. It may be best to first learn somewhere where the water slowly gets deeper and has a gradual slope. Just be patient with your pup, being comfortable swimming and in water can take some time. 

8)  Fireworks

Fireworks are a huge reason for fear and anxiety in our pets during the summertime. They scare our pets because they are extremely loud, unpredictable, and make your pet feel trapped. They can’t understand where the sound is coming from and many pets believe that the sound is coming from somewhere close by–leading to them becoming terrified, hiding, and sometimes even trying to escape. If your pet is very terrified, I would suggest talking to your veterinarian about prescription anti-anxiety medication options. If you think your pet only has mild anxiety, some suggestions to try would be desensitization training (this can involve playing the sound of fireworks in the home every so often to get them used to the sound and rewarding them with special treats/pets etc during it), creating a safe, calm space during the event, and ensuring your pets are safely inside so they do not escape your yard.

7) Parasite Prevention

Everywhere in the United States has fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, all of which can transmit diseases to your pet. Did you know if one single flea gets into your home, she can lay up to 2,000 eggs which can hatch into your carpet, bedding, and furniture? We hear all the time “well I don’t see fleas on my pet”, the truth is, most of the time you won’t. For every one adult flea that you find, there are probably at least a hundred juvenile fleas present. Ticks can spread lyme disease and other blood-borne parasites to your pet as well. Mosquitoes carry heartworm, which is a deadly parasite that both dogs and cats can get. If you live where mosquitoes are present, in humid clients, heartworm prevention is a MUST. Once they get heartworm, it can be very difficult to treat. It is also advised to check a fecal sample for your pet once or twice a year to ensure your pet does not have any worms, which they can get from their environment, fleas, or other dogs/cats. 

The post Summer Safety: How to Keep Your Pet Safe As The Weather Gets Warmer first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Here at Canidae®, we’re often asked “what’s the best food to feed my dog?” and if there was a simple answer we’d serve it up to you straight away! The fact remains that every dog is different, so the best food to feed your four-legged friend varies from pooch to pooch. 

Still, you’ve probably got lots of questions. We thought what better way to answer some of these than to ask an expert, so we spoke to Dr. Melissa Brookshire — veterinarian, pet food expert and founder of North River Enterprises.

Can You Feed Your Dog One Food for Life?

Busy pet parents — or those with multiple dogs — often ask if they can “set and forget” with an “all life stages” dog food. While some dog foods target prevalent health conditions in dogs, the convenience of an all-rounder may do the trick for healthy pets.

We asked Dr. Brookshire for her thoughts:

“Any complete and balanced diet with a great blend of ingredients can be fed for a lifetime. Signs that a food is working great for your pup include bright eyes, shiny coat and a firm but not hard stool.”

So there you have it, you can feed your dog one food for life. But that doesn’t mean you can feed them just anything. Make sure you’re giving your dog the best by providing them with food that packs nutrition as a priority. 

With a recipe formulated in collaboration with expert veterinarians, Canidae All Life Stages meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages including growth of large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult). 

These ultra nutritionally dense formulas mean you can feed less and get more. What’s more, every bite has been precisely fortified with HealthPLUS Solutions® — guaranteeing carefully balanced nutrients, antioxidants and probiotics to support your dog’s immune system. Canidae All Life Stages is a premium dog food, crafted for multi-dog homes.

This or That… Which Food Should I Feed My Dog?

There are so many dog foods on the market these days that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Every other day there seems to be another debate and it would be understandable if this is sending you barking mad. So instead of chasing your own tail through endless internet wormholes, put your trust in an expert.

Grain-Free Formula vs. Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Sometimes this debate feels like a war zone, with both sides firmly digging their claws in over what they believe is an important decision when choosing a dog food. We asked Dr. Brookshire for her opinion on this one:

“Individual dogs do better on different types of diets. Some may do best on a grain-free recipe, while others thrive on grain-inclusive recipes. Watch for the signs of a healthy pet, no matter which style you are feeding. If your dog does great on both, mix it up from time to time, always switching gradually, especially for dogs with a sensitive stomach.”

So, while there is no confirmed scientific evidence for one side or the other, it’s best to see what your dog reacts well to. Remember to transition your dog slowly, and if you notice any changes in your pet after switching her food, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. 

Whichever type of dog food you want to treat your pooch to, Canidae has got you covered. Our PURE formulas come in both grain-free and grain-inclusive varieties, but we never use corn, wheat or soy in any formulas. 

All of our PURE varieties are packed full of premium proteins and healthy fats, giving you clean recipes that your dog will be begging for more of. Using just 7-10 key, clean ingredients in every recipe, plus taurine, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and probiotics, PURE keeps things simple and is perfect for dogs with certain dietary sensitivities. 

For a grain-free option why not try the delicious Canidae PURE Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe which contains essential fatty acids such as EPA and DHA. And if you’re looking for something grain-inclusive, Canidae PURE Real Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe ticks all the boxes and includes wholesome grains like barley, oatmeal and brown rice. 

Multi-Protein vs. Single Animal Protein

Some dog foods stick to using one protein while others mix multiple. While humans have long enjoyed combining flavors from different food sources, the jury is still out there on whether dogs benefit from a variety of proteins. We asked Dr. Brookshire for the lowdown on this one:

“Some dogs may do best on a diet with a single animal protein source because of dietary sensitivities. However, many dogs thrive with multiple protein sources in their diet. It just really depends on the dog.”

Since there’s no right or wrong answer, the decision is up to you (and your dog!). For a mouth-watering multi-protein mix, feed your dog Canidae All Life Stages Multi-Protein Formula which provides optimal protein and wholesome grains for dogs of all ages and sizes.

If you want a delicious single-protein recipe, formulated with probiotics, antioxidants and omega 6 & 3 fatty acids, treat your dog to Canidae Under The Sun Grain-Free Dry Dog Food with Whitefish.

Dry Food vs. Wet Food

We’ve often been asked whether a dog should be eating wet food or dry food, sometimes referred to as kibble. While it’s perfectly fine to feed your dog either of these, Dr. Brookshire brings up the idea of mixing foods:

“Combining kibble with some wet food is a great way to add variety and increase moisture intake. Picky eaters will often eat kibble with a topper or mix-in of some wet food, whereas they may not care for kibble alone.”

Now you’re probably wondering what’s the best wet dog food to mix with dry food. Here at Canidae, we complement our fine range of dry kibbles with some delicious wet options. For the smaller dogs, why not try Canidae PURE Petite Small Breed Wet Dog Food with Turkey which packs real meat first and 10 or fewer simple ingredients, including vegetables like pumpkin and carrots.

If you’re keen on mixing wet and dry dog food for your bigger boy or girl — and are also interested in helping to make our world a more sustainable place — then check out some of the newer recipes in our Sustain line. 

We’ve got Sustain Bone Broth Toppers which are slow-cooked with premium, responsibly sourced proteins to nourish dogs of all ages. Or we can offer you three mouth-watering varieties of Sustain Wholesome Pâté, which combine slow-release oats with premium, responsibly sourced proteins that will have your dog barking “délicieux” in a French accent.

How Do I Choose Which Brand to Feed My Dog?

While we know that different types of food have different benefits, how does a dog owner make the decision on which brand of dog food to feed their best friend? Dr. Brookshire has some advice:

“Choosing a reputable brand, known for high-quality foods, is one of the most important factors when choosing the right food for your pet. Most dogs do great with variety and a brand with numerous options can satisfy the needs of almost every dog out there.”

Canidae’s use of premium ingredients, plus our wide range of recipes for puppies and adult dogs of all sizes really push us ahead of the competition. We pack more protein, nutrition and flavor into every bite — see just how we shape up against our competitors.

When you’re making a decision on dog food, find a brand you trust and then pick a food, but don’t be afraid to try different recipes with your dog. As pet parents ourselves, we know so well how every dog is different and has its own unique personality, as well as different tastes and needs. 

If your dog has a health condition make sure to consult your vet before making any major changes to her diet and check out our transitioning guide to see how best to change your dog’s food.

Make the best decision for your dog and transition to Canidae today!

The post Limited Diet? Grain-Free? All Life Stages Dog Food? We Discuss the Best Food to Feed Your Dog first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Poodle mixes are becoming increasingly popular. Poodles are fun loving, family dogs that have many great qualities. Energetic, smart and less allergenic than most breeds, what isn’t there to love about these pups?! Whether they’re big or small dogs, it seems like everyone wants to cross their dogs with poodles.

So, why does everyone want a piece of the Poodle? We take a look below… 

They Have a Great Temperament

Just like humans, every dog is different. But, the Poodle tends to be highly intelligent, easy to train, loyal and sensitive. They are also gentle, faithful, empathetic and they love to play. They get along well with other dog breeds and are great with children — making them wonderful family members and great therapy dogs.

Being such a great dog breed themselves, Poodles often bring positive traits into any mix.

This is the advantage of a “designer dog.” While the term has gotten a bad rap, the aim is to create a canine breed with a purpose — to optimize the best qualities of each parent. Unlike some mixed breeds, designer dogs are generally born from two purebred parents. Depending on the qualities of the offspring, one puppy can be like having two dogs in one, for example, Labradoodles were first bred from Labradors (which are common guide dogs) and Poodles (with a low-shed coat) to be hypoallergenic service dogs. 

Can They Be Hypoallergenic?

When it comes to non-shedding, “hypoallergenic” dog breeds, Poodles are always at the top of the list. While most dog breeds have double coats, Poodles only have a single coat, and don’t have an undercoat. Poodles have a dense and curly coat, and the texture can vary from soft and wavy to coarse and wooly. 

While no dog’s fur is completely non-allergenic, a poodle’s coat is often described as hypoallergenic, meaning unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, as it has very low allergenic properties. This is because Poodles are a low-shedding breed. Their hair falls off in small amounts and will tangle in the surrounding coat, so you’ll rarely see their hair on the floor, clothes, or furniture.

It is worth noting that getting a “hypoallergenic” dog is not as easy as it sounds: puppies can seem hypoallergenic but then their adult coat can be very different. Likewise, there can be a lot of variation between mixes of dogs, including “designer breeds.” Shedding genetics are still not completely understood and more research is needed.

Poodles Are Great Looking Dogs!

Poodles are cute, graceful, unique, and come in all different colors, shapes and sizes! Poodles have been the subjects of artistic works for centuries. They make great show dogs, and can often be found accompanying models on runways and in photoshoots for magazines.

Not to be underestimated due to their beauty, Poodles are bright and clever, and their level of intelligence is second only to the brainiac Border Collie.

Another prominent reason for the popularity of Poodle mixes is that the breeder can choose the size they want. Depending on the parent, be it a miniature Poodle or a standard Poodle, you can largely determine the size.

Speaking of Cute…

There are so many adorable Poodle mixes! At present in the US, the most popular Poodle mix breeds are Cockapoos (a Cocker Spaniel mix), Maltipoos (a Maltese Dog mix), Labradoodles (a Labrador mix), Goldendoodles (a Golden Retriever mix), Schnoodles (a Miniature Schnauzer mix), Peekapoos (a Pekingese mix), Yorkipoos (a Yorkshire Terrier mix), Bernedoodles (a Bernese mountain dog mix) and the Shih-Poo (a Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle mix). 

Big or small, cuddly, and causing fewer allergies: these pups have all inherited some of the best qualities from both of their parents.

A New Name for a New Dog – Why Are Poodle Mixes Called Doodles?

Poodle mixes are called Doodles simply because it is a way to refer to the Poodle part of the mix. A Doodle is a cross between a Poodle and another dog breed. There are also Oodles and Poos, such as Schnoodles, Yorkiepoos and Cockapoos.

There are many different types of Doodles, but the original Doodle was a Labradoodle, bred in the early 1980s by Wally Conron. Conron’s goal was to create an allergy-free guide dog for a vision-impaired woman, whose husband was allergic to dog hair. Two years later, he successfully crossed a Standard Poodle with a Labrador Retriever, and the Labradoodle was born.

Can Mixed Breeds Be Healthier?

Yes… and no. All dogs can have potential genetic health problems. However, the chances of genetic diseases passing on to the next generation are significantly lower in mixed breed dogs than in purebreds because of their greater genetic diversity. This is known as heterosis or “hybrid vigor.” It has been argued that this can result in a longer lifespan for mixed breeds than either of their parent breeds. 

While this is still debated within the vet community, a 2013 study by Bellumori et al in 2013 looked at 24 of the most common hereditary diseases of dogs and found the incidence of 10 genetic disorders (42%) was significantly greater in purebred dogs, whereas the incidence of 1 disorder — ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (4%) — was greater in mixed breed dogs. For the rest of the disorders studied, there was no significant difference in the incidence between purebreds and mixed breed dogs. Although the answer to this question remains unclear, it is possible for purebreds and mixed breeds to live long healthy lives.

What Is the Best Breed to Mix With a Poodle?

There is no universal “best” breed — all dogs are beautiful and special. What the best mix is for you and your family, however, all depends on what your needs are, and what you’re able to provide. Different breeds of dogs have different physical requirements and personality characteristics, so do your research before committing to a dog.

For example, all dogs need daily exercise, but if you want a dog that is super active and loves a lot of it, a larger poodle mix, such as a Goldendoodle (a Golden Retriever mix) will likely be best for you. If you are looking for more of a lap dog that doesn’t need as much exercise, a small crossbreed such as a Yorkipoo (a Yorkshire Terrier mix) may be a better choice for you.

Your Small Poodle or Doodle Will Love PURE Petite Small Breed Wet Dog Food with Salmon & Shrimp!

CANIDAE® PURE Petite Small Breed Wet Dog Food with Salmon & Shrimp uses simple wholesome recipes to offer your small-breed dog a well-rounded meal that’s been crafted specifically with them in mind. Our Pure Petite food contains only 10 simple ingredients or less, and this omega-3-rich formula will leave your furry friend’s coat looking shiny and healthy. 

And if you’ve got a larger breed poodle or poodle mix? Try any of the delicious recipes in our PURE line. They’re all packed full of premium proteins and healthy fats, and only use 7-10 key, clean ingredients in every recipe. We’ve got delicious grain-free options such as PURE Grain-Free Real Lamb and Pea Recipe and others that contain wholesome grains like PURE Real Salmon and Barley Recipe.

Are you ready to transition your dog to Canidae? Learn more here!

The post Why Are There So Many Poodle Mixes? first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Just expanded your family to include a new four-legged member? Congrats!  It is important to get your puppy started off on the right foot soon after you get him/her.  Dr. Laura Robinson, one of Canidae’s consulting veterinarians,  shares her recommendations for what to focus on once you’ve brought your furry friend home (other than lots, and lots of snuggles).

The First Vet Visit

It is recommended to visit your veterinarian within the first week of getting your puppy. Your veterinarian can talk to you about things like diet, exercise and training recommendations. Puppies will need vaccines done every 3-4 weeks starting at age 6-8 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. In addition to vaccines, there are a few other veterinary recommendations for your puppy to make sure they get started on the right foot. Some of these recommendations might be:

• Stool sample sent out to check for internal parasites (i.e. tapeworm, roundworm, whipworm etc.)
• Deworming
• Microchipping
• Spaying and Neutering
• Bloodwork to ensure they are healthy
• Check for fleas and ear mites
• Heartworm and tick-borne disease testing
• Viral testing
• Flea and tick protection

While all these recommendations will vary a little bit from vet to vet and also on location, these are the most common things your veterinarian may recommend. It is a big responsibility to get a puppy, but also extremely exciting. You shouldn’t wait to visit your veterinarian. Be sure to get started the right way and get all the advice you can!

Socialization

Socialization is extremely important for puppies

Socialization is getting puppies and kittens used to people, other animals, and experiences that they will encounter frequently in their adult lives. This will involve introducing them to as many new people, pets, places, things as possible while they are young. This period of their life will set them up for the rest of their lives and will teach them to react confidently and calmly to situations, people, and other animals instead of reacting fearfully or violently. I always recommend puppy training classes for socialization just as much as training. 

It is okay to have vaccinated dogs visit your unvaccinated puppy as long as you stay in your home/yard. This is the only safe way to socialize as your pet shouldn’t go anywhere where other dogs have been until they are vaccinated.

Doggie daycare once they are vaccinated

When it makes sense

• If your dog has a lot of energy and/or likes to play then I would definitely recommend it. Young dogs especially like daycare because they are very playful and have a lot of energy. I also like daycare for adolescent dogs, high energy breeds (labs, jack russells, german shepherds, huskies etc), and working dogs (bordie collies, aussies, hunting dogs)
• It can be beneficial to young dogs because it also socializes them and they will be less likely to develop aggressive tendencies and will learn social cues from other dogs quicker, it also is a way to exercise them
• Dogs crave social interactions and thrive in the company of others (humans and/or other dogs)
• Can be helpful if your dog becomes destructive in the home or in the crate while you are away and you have tried other options without success
• Downsides to daycare: more likely to contract illnesses such as parasites or kennel cough as you don’t know if other dogs there are healthy, they are also more likely to injure themselves
• Typically not good for very anxious puppies, fearful adult dogs, dog reactive or aggressive dogs

How to evaluate

• Visit first!
• Should be clean, organized and look like a safe environment. If the visible things to the client are not clean and in good shape, then the non-visible areas are guaranteed to be even worse 
• If there is an outdoor area, make sure the fencing is good
• Make sure there is nothing that looks like it could injure your dog
• I like daycares that separate large dogs from smaller dogs
• Talk to a few employees and ask them questions, see if you like them and their mission and if they seem like they care

Puppy food

When you bring a new puppy home, it is important to pick the right food. Your puppy should start off eating a recipe that is formulated specifically for puppies. Some great options include Canidae’s Sustain new salmon and barley puppy formula or Canidae Pure’s clean, premium recipes which include a grain-free and grain-inclusive options for puppies. 

Puppy food is different from adult food. You want to pick food that has an AAFCO statement on it, meaning this food has been evaluated by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). You can feed your new puppy just dry food, just wet food or a mixture of both, all are perfectly fine options. Typically you want to feed your new puppy 3-4x a day for the first 3-5 months so that their blood sugar doesn’t drop too much throughout the day. Puppies burn a lot of calories and require a lot of energy in their food. Puppy food typically is more calorie dense than adult food and contains higher fat, protein and calcium than adult food to ensure they have all the nutrients to grow appropriately. They also typically change the amino acid profile a bit to account for better growth and sometimes add DHA, a type of omega fatty acid found in their mother’s milk. 

I usually recommend keeping them on puppy food until they are a year old, sometimes 1.5 years for giant breeds

Training

Training your puppy is definitely a worthwhile investment. Everything moving forward will be much easier on you and your puppy when they learn basic commands. I usually recommend getting started with puppy classes, which will help not only with training but also socialization. Working with a trainer is always a good idea. Many trainers will also come to your house as well. Positive reinforcement is usually the best, which entails giving a treat when a command is obeyed. I would start basic training right away with your puppy. I usually recommend crate training for puppies for potty training purposes. 

How to crate train

• Put the crate in one of your dog’s favorite areas of the home
• Feed their meals in the crate and give them treats in the crate so they learn to associate positive experiences with the crate
• Give them their favorite chew toy only when you put them in the crate so they again associate positive experiences with the crate. Make sure to use a safe toy that can be chewed on without you having to watch them for fear of ingestion.
• Use the crate and the crate only for nap time and bedtime. 
• Do not use the crate for punishment i.e.placing them in there when they do something bad. You do not want any negative associations with the crate. 
• Have a command you use to signal your dog to use the crate. Train them to associate this word with the crate such as “crate” or “kennel” and then place them in the crate and give them a treat. 
• Start out with the above training and then leave the dog in there for small periods of time such as a few minutes then let them out and praise them. You can gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate over time. 
• Be sure to not use the crate excessively. Your dog should not spend the majority of the day in the crate, they need mental and physical stimulation. 
• Rule of thumb for how long they can hold their urine and how long they should stay in their crate is their age in months +1 so for instance a three month old puppy can hold their urine for 4 months (3+1)
• If your dog is having severe anxiety in the crate, talk to your veterinarian about what may be a better option for him/her. 

Why crate training?

• It helps your dog learn the appropriate time and place to eliminate (urinate/defecate)
• It helps in making them feel safe once they get used to it
• Housetraining and destructive behavior are some of the top reasons dogs end up in shelters, by teaching appropriate training early, these bad habits can be prevented
• A dog’s natural instinct is to find a quiet, calm area where they can find stillness and rest when they want to, a crate provides this
• Most dogs do not want to urinate or defecate where they sleep so the crate teaches them to hold it and helps tremendously with housetraining
• As mentioned above, it helps prevent destructive behavior like tearing up your shoes or getting into the trash or other things they shouldn’t 

Neutering / Spaying

• It is a choice, sometimes breeders will require you to spay/neuter or shelters will
• Is it vet recommended?
  • Yes, most vets do recommend spaying and neutering for most dogs 
• What are the benefits of neutering and spaying ? disadvantages?
  • Benefits: usually better behaved, won’t get pregnant or try to escape your yard to mate, eliminate risks of certain cancers (ovarian, mammary, testicular, prostate), avoid emergencies like pyometra (infection of the uterus)
  • Disadvantages: have some downsides in large breed dogs in regards to ligament/bone development, makes them slightly more prone to certain cancers such as HSA, sometimes causes weight gain
• Is it ever too late or too early?
  • Never too late,, can be too early. In females, most vets recommend before the first or second heat cycle. In males, most vets recommend 5-8 months in small dogs and 8 months-2 years in large and breed dogs. 

Vaccinations

Core vaccines

• DAPP combination vaccine
  • Protects against Distemper virus, Adenovirus Type 1 and 2, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza Virus
  • Recommended in all states 
• Rabies vaccines
  • Protects against Rabies virus
  • Recommended in all states
  • Some states it is required

Non-core vaccines

• Bordetella + Parainfluenza
  • Both are respiratory diseases and involved in Kennel Cough
  • Usually administered into the nostrils
  • Recommended in most areas of the U.S.
• Leptospirosis
  • This vaccines only protects against certain strains of Leptospirosis
  • This disease is most common in the Midwest, Eastern and Southwestern USA and is usually transmitted by wildlife
• Lyme disease
  • Spread by ticks so most common in high tick areas such as Northeast, Upper Midwest and West Coast
  • Recommend to have your dog on a tick preventative to also help limit tick bites and transmission
• Canine Influenza
  • Most commonly transmitted in areas where dogs are in close contact such as kennels, groomers, day care, shelters etc
  • Vaccines can help offer protection but do not 100% eliminate the chances of contracting influenza. 
  • Newer disease and not too prevalent yet but has been seen in most states 
• Rattlesnake vaccine
  • Should only be given to dogs in high risk areas where rattlesnakes are known to live
  • Does not protect your dog from the venom but allows for a better chance of survival if bitten 
• Are there any particular vaccines that can come up – special situations? 
  • Coronavirus, Lepto, Lyme, Rattlesnake
• How quickly should you vaccinate your kitten/puppy
  • Vaccines start between 6-8 wks old and go until they’re 16 wks old
• Cost of vaccinations?
  • Usually between $10-25 per vaccine

The list may seem long – a new puppy is lots of responsibility after all – but luckily it’s also sprinkled with love, licks, laughs and walks.  

Subscribe to Canidae’s blog and follow @canidaepetfood and @vet.lo.robinson for more tips and tricks on how to keep your dog healthy and happy throughout its life.

The post New Puppy Check-list With Dr. Laura first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Here at Canidae®, we firmly believe that mental health should not be ignored. To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month (plus National Therapy Animal Day on April 30th) we’re revisiting our collaboration with Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD).

As well as pledging $20,000 to the fine folks at the ATD and encouraging Canidae customers to certify their dogs, we’ve become close partners in our shared passion for goodness for pets, people and the planet. 

“Canidae is committed to pets, people and the planet. ATD is committed to bringing the human-animal bond to those who need it most. When two companies’ missions align so well, it’s a partnership that allows for a collaboration of smiles and joy within the Cycle of Goodness.” — Kim W, Alliance of Therapy Dogs President.

While we’ve previously looked into what therapy dogs do (and the difference between therapy dogs, service dogs and emotional support animals), we thought what better moment to hear some real therapy dog stories from their proud pet parents.

These stories are just a few examples of the many incredible stories that have been shared with us. It’s clear just how much goodness these amazing dogs spread to all of the people they encounter in their lives. We love supporting the Alliance of Therapy Dogs to make sure more and more dogs are able to share their gift in this way.

(Find out more about our Cycle of Goodness and learn how to certify your pet as a therapy dog, here.)

Elsa

This heartwarming story was told to us by Sharon, who let her dog Elsa go and work miracles:

“We volunteer at a local hospital and some nursing homes. One day at the hospital, we knocked on the door of a room and asked the family inside if they would like a visit from a therapy dog. When we entered the room I noticed the lady in the bed was asleep, so I asked if they were sure they wanted us to come in. They didn’t hesitate to tell us yes and added that the lady loved dogs but had been in a coma for several days. 

They asked if I could put Elsa on the bed beside her. I lifted Elsa onto the bed and not long after the lady lifted her fingers and started rubbing Elsa’s foot. I was shocked and looked at the family who were also stunned by what had just happened.  

They then asked if I could move Elsa to the other side of the lady and let her lay closer to her face. So I moved Elsa and she gave the lady the smallest little lick on her cheek. I’m still trying to process what happened next: The lady quickly opened her eyes and began to speak. We couldn’t understand what she was saying but she was telling us something.

I looked over at the family and they were crying and in shock. They couldn’t stop thanking us and before we left we all took a photo together. 

Elsa loves doing visits and seems to have a sixth sense for knowing what people need, but this moment was particularly special. ”

Takoda

Erin told us this fantastic story about Takoda, a beautiful Great Pyrenees rescue (fun fact: this breed has double dewclaws!):

“We rescued Takoda after he was found in a ditch by police in Georgia. He had been shot with a shotgun and wasn’t in a good state. After he had surgery on his leg we adopted him, but he still had shotgun pellets inside his body. One day after not too long, Takoda was very sick. We had to rush him to the veterinarian and he had emergency surgery to put a pin in his leg. The next few months weren’t easy for him, but he persevered, did his physical therapy and was eventually fully healed. 

Four years later, Takoda is in great spirits. He recently got certified as a therapy dog and has been helping out at the university. Students are under so much stress right now and he just loves to bring them comfort and joy. You can see the real impact he’s having on their mental health.

The name Takoda means “friend to all” in Sioux and this sums him up perfectly.”

Moose

This touching story from Carol has more twists and turns than a roller coaster:

“My daughter is quite the entrepreneur and started her own pet sitting business at age 9. Years later, one of the dogs she regularly looked after couldn’t be taken with his owners when they moved away. He was going to be taken to the animal shelter, but we weren’t ready for a new dog so soon after our best friend of 13 years had passed away. We couldn’t let him be taken to the city pound though, so we agreed to take Moose until we could find him a good home. 4 years have now passed and he has certainly found his home. 

We realized early on that he loved people and had amazing intuition, so we got him certified by the ATD (he’s a quick learner and passed his classes quickly!). Soon, the staff and patients at our local cancer center were looking forward to seeing him weekly. He was also loved by those at an elderly and disabled apartment complex, as well as by the students at the local university where he gave so much support, especially around finals time. He’s such a kind, gentle and giving dog that he would come home from these visits completely exhausted but would always be ready to go again. 

Unfortunately, life is never simple and I had to have bilateral knee replacements. Moose intuitively knew what to do: he would come to physical therapy sessions with me and very quickly caught on to how he could assist me. I also have a vision disability which Moose, on his own, learned how to help me with. We springboarded from here with more specific training, and after hours and hours of work, Moose is now a service dog as well as a therapy dog. 

During the early stages of the pandemic, Moose couldn’t make therapy dog visits so we focused on his service dog training. Now things are loosening back up, we are making more therapy visits and Moose seems to have no issues switching back and forth between his duties. 

He flies with me and is a hit with the airline staff, just as he’s a hit wherever he goes. He always seems to know who needs a visit and his calm demeanor draws people to him. You can see any anxiety and worries just melt away when Moose leans in to say hello.

Moose has accomplished so much, is so willing, and only wants to please. He truly is a gift from God.”

Frankie

Susie told us this moving tale about her three-and-a-half-year-old Golden Retriever, Frankie:

“Throughout the past year, we have been visiting a nursing home and have gotten acquainted with the residents. While everyone looks forward to our weekly visits, one resident stood out: Jean. Jean was in hospice care and didn’t have the strength or desire to leave her room. She was isolated from the other residents and ate all her meals in her room by herself unless a family member visited at mealtime. Jean was so happy when we would visit her and would talk to Frankie while constantly petting her. Frankie performed tricks for Jean that would make her smile and laugh.

We showed up one day to visit Jean and she was excited to show me her new red electric scooter her family had bought her. Jean was now able to leave her room and take her meals in the dining room with the other residents. She told me she was really excited about being able to take a walk with Frankie through the hallways. So that’s how our new weekly routine started: We’d arrive to see Jean waiting patiently for Frankie to arrive and for the walk to begin.

A couple of months later, Jean’s daughter was waiting for us at the front lobby. She thanked us for visiting her mother, and told us she felt like she already knew us due to how much her mother spoke about us! She started to tell us that Jean had had a rough night and wouldn’t be able to walk with us, and asked if we could visit her in her room instead. Before I had a chance to reply Jean came around the corner in her red scooter. Her daughter was amazed she was up and out of her room. Jean’s response was, “I never miss a chance to take a walk with Frankie!” 

A few months later, I missed our weekly visit due to having Covid. A couple of weeks later I called the nursing home to tell them that I was feeling better and would be back the following week. It was then when they told me that just two days prior Jean had passed away in her sleep, with her family beside her. Earlier in the week Jean had asked about Frankie and said she missed her visits and was hoping we’d come by soon. 

I was totally taken aback, our visits had such a positive impact on her life. They gave her a reason to get out of bed, get dressed, and interact with her fellow residents. Frankie and I made Jean a little happier near the end of her life. I am honored to have known Jean, and so grateful for the time we had together. Who knew my life would become so enriched because of Frankie, my best fur friend.”

Hubbert

Jesslyn talks us through the life and times of her Rottweiler German Shepherd mix, Hubbert:

“I first met Hubbert in late spring 2013, when he was a 3-year-old pup at the local animal shelter where I was working. He had been through three different homes because he suffered from separation anxiety. He would cry loudly if left alone, wouldn’t eat and would occasionally destroy household items. 

The shelter struggled to find a foster home for Hubbert and he continued to cry for days on end and lose weight due to not eating. His stress was very visible! We had to hold a meeting about his well-being and before I knew it the words “I can foster him” escaped my mouth. I owned three stable dogs at the time but could see something special in Hubbert and had to give him a chance.

Over that next year, Hubbert thrived. He had a kind soul but loved to chase toys and balls and run through the hayfields following his dog friends. He found peace when sleeping on the bed or with his trademark position of resting his head in your hand. 

In spring 2016, a tragic accident happened to me. I was heartbroken, depressed, and inconsolably crying. This was when Hubbert shined! He had a natural ability to know when I needed his head on my lap, a pal to listen, a snuggle friend, or his floppy ears to wipe away my tears. His quietness and care could be felt and he helped me travel through the grief and move forward to see the positivity in my life. 

After that it was evident: I needed to share what he did for me with others! Hubbert would be an excellent therapy dog. By December 2016, Hubbert was certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs!

For the next five years, Hubbert became a pillar in our humane education program. We ran this program in different elementary, middle and high schools and he assisted in teaching hundreds of school-aged kids valuable lessons about animal behavior and body language, the role of animal control, the animal shelter and pets’ needs. 

As a uniformed Animal Control Officer, Hubbert enabled me to make positive connections with many kids. However, one elementary-aged child was horrified by a person resembling law enforcement. While he was visibly upset at the sight of a uniform, he really wanted to meet Hubbert. Eventually, his desire to pet Hubbert became his only thought. He approached us and was able to have a positive conversation and interaction with me. He even gave me a hug before we left! Without Hubbert, this would not have been possible. The schools looked forward to Hubbert’s visits, the classrooms were filled!

Hubbert continued to show how special he was and share his goodness. His calmness was felt in the summer of 2018 when the Weston Pass Fire raged through where we lived and displaced us, and in 2020 during the course of my divorce. He provided a sense of normalcy and helped me understand the importance of the word family. 

Hubbert made so many connections thanks to his wonderful disposition, friendly nature and ability to recognize people who were hurting. He could always find the goodness in people, and watching him gave you the desire to believe in people too. Looking into his eyes, he knew how special he was. 

In June 2021, I was there to return the comfort to him as he passed in my arms. I knew I could be there for him because of everything he did for me. I miss him, our humane education program misses him, and all who knew him, miss him. 

He left a lasting, positive mark in his 12 years on Earth. Seeing him interact with people made you want to be good and kind to others. He was a very special dog that will not be replaced but remembered for his ability to help people get over the walls of grief, hurt, anger and sadness. I was so thankful to have Hubbert in my life.”

The post 5 Incredible Therapy Dog Stories first appeared on CANIDAE®.

You’re probably pretty familiar with your dog’s claws by now, whether it’s the clickety-clack sound they make as she trots across the kitchen floor or the reassuring touch as she gives you her paw. One thing you might not have known is what the extra claw (the one that sits a little higher up) is called. Allow us to introduce you to the dewclaw. 

Acting similarly to a human thumb, the dewclaw (sometimes written as two words, “dew claw”) can be found at the upper, inner part of your dog’s front paws. If your dog has dewclaws on its hind legs as well as its front legs, or doesn’t have them at all, there’s no need for alarm… let us explain!

Do All Dogs Have Dewclaws?

All dogs are born with a front dewclaw on each paw, and some of them have more: The breed standard for Great Pyrenees dogs is to have double dewclaws on each hind leg! 

A select few breeds such as Saint Bernards (famous for their daring rescues and barrels of brandy), Icelandic Sheepdogs and Spanish Mastiffs have dewclaws on their rear feet too. These rear dewclaws are a bit different: they are only attached by skin and are much more mobile, compared to front dewclaws that are attached to muscle, ligaments and bone.

Are you sitting there puzzled, wondering why your dog doesn’t have ANY dewclaws? Don’t worry, they were probably removed straight after they were born. We’ll dig deeper into dewclaw removal a bit later.

Why Do Dogs Have Dewclaws?

We’ve all seen cats climbing trees, but imagine the sight of your dog doing the same thing. This surreal image might seem like the stuff of dreams (or nightmares for some!) but it actually used to happen — modern dog’s ancestors used to climb trees and cliffs! The extra grip from their dewclaws gave them the ability to scale such heights.

In fact, there are a few breeds that still do some dewclaw-assisted climbing. In colder climates like Alaska and Antarctica, dogs have been known to fall through the ice. Thankfully their dewclaws help them climb out of freezing waters and return to solid ground. Next time your dog whines about having a bath let them know they haven’t got it so bad!

Evolution is a peculiar thing, and while dewclaws started out as climbing aids, through time they moved higher up the paw. This gave dogs extra traction and stability when running at high speeds, which meant they were able to avoid pacy predators. To this day they still help your dog turn quickly when they’re sprinting around the park.

Should Dewclaws Be Removed?

In short, no… unless there is a very important reason!

As we mentioned, the front dewclaws are attached to the bone and help your dog’s balance and stability.

Some breeders remove front and rear dewclaws a few days after birth, with the idea being to prevent injury or “improve” the dog’s appearance. However, serious dewclaw injuries are uncommon, and performing surgery on a dog for purely aesthetic reasons is hard to defend.

There are some cases where dewclaw removal is necessary. If a dog gets a serious infection, has a traumatic injury, or develops a tumor in the area, then a veterinarian may need to operate. 

How Do I Care For My Dog’s Dewclaws?

Injuries

While dewclaw injuries are uncommon, they are not unheard of — especially for working dogs. Regardless of your dog’s lifestyle, any of his nails can get broken, pulled off or split, so when you think about all of the mucky places he loves exploring, it’s no surprise these nails can get infected.

Some vets say the dewclaw is more likely to get injured than any other nail as it can become overgrown or get caught on things as your dog pulls away. What’s more, if your pup has rear dewclaws they are particularly vulnerable as they aren’t firmly attached and can dangle loosely. 

If your dog does have a dewclaw injury you should take them to your veterinarian. They will be able to diagnose the problem, trim overgrown nails, remove damaged ones, or prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers. 

Maintenance 

Since dewclaws don’t touch the ground as often as your dog’s other nails, you need to pay special attention to them! A dog’s nails are worn down by contact with hard surfaces, but as dewclaws don’t get as much contact with the ground, you will need to trim them regularly. Be careful when you’re trimming your dog’s nails, and remember to ask your vet if you have any doubts!

While giving your pet a pedicure may feel like the height of luxury, they say the real way to a dog’s heart is through his stomach. 

Give your dog the royal treatment with CANIDAE® Goodness Real Salmon & Brown Rice, which combines delicious flavor with essential nutrients. Packing real salmon as the first ingredient, plus HealthPLUS Solutions® (which is carefully fortified with antioxidants, probiotics, omega 6 and 3 fatty acids, and more), Goodness gives your dog’s immune system, digestion, joints, skin and coat a noticeable boost.

Discuss transitioning to Canidae’s delicious recipes today!

The post What Are Dewclaws and Why Do Dogs Have Them? first appeared on CANIDAE®.

We believe that a pet food brand can be good for pets and the planet, which is why we’re always exploring new ways to make our food, packaging and operations more planet-friendly. 

(You can read more about our commitment to making the pet food industry a more sustainable place, here.)

As part of this drive, we’re excited to announce the expansion of our Sustain line. 

While the importance of protecting the environment can’t be overstated, we also believe our dogs have a right to eat tasty and nutritious food. Let us tell you a little bit about the environmentally-friendly foods and treats you can offer your four-legged friend today, that nurture both their health, and the health of our planet. 

The Original Trio

In 2021 we kicked things off with three delicious formulas that have already gone down as all-time doggy favorites. These nutritionally dense foods all use responsibly sourced proteins to minimize the impact on the environment. To add to that, the packaging is 40% post-consumer recycled, which is the highest of any pet food brand! 

Premium Recipe with Cage-Free Chicken

For the poultry-loving pets, this one contains real GAP-certified (level 2) chicken as the first ingredient. This means chicken that is raised humanely: antibiotic-free, stress-free, cage-free, protected from the elements, and in an enriched environment with natural light and proper rest.

Like the rest of our Sustain recipes, Premium Recipe with Cage-Free Chicken is formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy immune system.

Premium Plant-Based Protein Recipe

Cutting out meat can be a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, or even your carbon pawprint! We worked closely with a vet nutritionist to formulate this one and make sure it contains all the essential amino acids your dog needs. We use upcycled brewer’s yeast as an excellent sustainable source of protein — which means Premium Plant-Based Protein Recipe releases fewer carbon emissions than meat-based recipes.

As with the rest of the Sustain line, we partner with US Farmers who adopt regenerative agriculture practices to bring sustainable practices to our farmlands. 

Premium Recipe with Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon

For dogs with a taste for fish, this one is a winner. Our wild-caught Alaskan salmon is sourced from fisheries that maintain sustainable salmon populations and minimize the impact to their habitats. Premium Recipe with Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon makes being sustainable taste better than ever before.

We couldn’t leave the little ones hanging, which is why Premium Recipe with Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon is now also available as a Puppy recipe. You might ask, why this one? Well, salmon is a highly digestible protein source and is rich in ARA and DHA omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that support a puppy’s cognitive development. It’s important to give young pups the right start in life, which is why we continue to provide options that are specially formulated just for puppies. 

You may be thinking that the Sustain expansion is starting small, but premium puppy food is just a nibble of what we’ve got up our sustainable sleeves. 

The Great Wet Expansion

Different dogs like different foods. Some are content with delicious kibble, while others prefer their food wet. Some lucky ones even get a combination of the two! If you’re unsure about what to feed your dog or are thinking about changing their diet, remember to speak to your veterinarian first.

Sustain Bone Broth Toppers

If your dog wants something special on top of their kibble, treat them to some environmentally friendly tastiness and our new bone broth toppers. These are all slow-cooked with premium, responsibly sourced proteins to nourish dogs of all ages.

Delicious taste doesn’t have to come at the expense of sustainability: The Tetra Pak packaging we use is 100% recyclable and made from FSC-certified paperboard.

These bone broth toppers come in three great varieties.

Premium Recipe with Cage-Free Chicken 

Using chicken that is responsibly sourced and 100% Animal Welfare Certified Level 2, this recipe provides energy and amino acids that support a healthy balance for your pet. To add a bit of variety to this highly digestible protein source, Premium Recipe with Cage-Free Chicken comes with delectable bites of rice and carrots. 

Premium Recipe with Cage-Free Turkey

Just as with our chicken recipe, this cage-free turkey is responsibly sourced and 100% Animal Welfare Certified Level 2. As a white meat, turkey is more easily digestible than red meats such as beef and pork. Premium Recipe with Cage-Free Turkey comes with delectable bites of rice and carrots, along with the turkey which provides energy and amino acids that give your dog a healthy balance.

Premium Recipe with Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon

Now let’s talk about salmon. This wild thing that will make your dog’s heart sing is sourced from fisheries that maintain sustainable salmon populations and minimize the impact on their habitats. Salmon is another highly digestible protein source, rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat. 

Try our bone broth toppers today. 

Sustain Wholesome Pâté

We took this French specialty and gave it the Sustain treatment. Packed with premium, responsibly sourced proteins and nutrient-rich vegetables to support your dog’s health — no matter his or her age — this one also comes in 3 delicious varieties. Using oats, which provide “slow-release” energy, Sustain Wholesome Pâté can fuel your dog all day and provide the dietary fiber that is important for their digestive system to be in full working order. 

What’s more, this goodness comes in Tetra Pak packaging which is made from FSC certified paperboard, reduces environmental impact and is 100% recyclable.

These wholesome pâtés come in three delicious flavors. 

Premium Recipe With Cage-Free Chicken & Oats

Just like with our bone broth toppers, we only use responsibly sourced and 100% Animal Welfare Certified Level 2 poultry here. Give your pooch the energy and amino acids it needs with this delicious recipe.

Premium Recipe With Cage-Free Turkey & Oats

Another poultry pâté, this time with tasty, responsibly sourced turkey. This highly digestible recipe supports a healthy balance in your pet and only uses 100% Animal Welfare Certified Level 2 turkey. 

Premium Recipe With Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon & Oats

Everyone knows how tasty salmon is, but we often ignore the unsavory practices at salmon farms, which can result in among other downsides, lower quality fish. There’s no need to worry about that here, all of our salmon is wild-caught and sourced from fisheries that maintain sustainable salmon populations and minimize the impact to their habitats. As well as having mouth-watering flavor, salmon is also highly digestible and rich in omega-3 fatty acids which support healthy skin and coat.

Check out our sustainable pâtés today.

Sustain Jerky Treats

These delicious treats are made with premium, responsibly-sourced proteins and superfoods that fuel your dog with every bite.

Depending on which delicious recipe you go for, our protein-packed jerky treats are made of more than 75% free-range chicken, cage-free duck, wild-caught salmon and wild venison.

These are suitable for dogs of all ages, and even those with sensitive stomachs or allergies thanks to simple recipes including six or fewer ingredients.

To keep our environmental pawprint down, all proteins and ingredients are made in the USA, except for responsibly sourced Venison that comes from Europe. And to add to that, the packaging for these Jerky Treats uses 33% post-consumer recycled packaging made from plastic bottles, which is the most you’ll see from any pet food brand.

Free-Range Chicken Recipe With Sweet Potato

This tasty chew’s main ingredient is chicken, but not just any type of chicken. We use gap-certified real meat (level 3) that is raised without antibiotics to ensure what’s best for your dog is also best for our planet. Try it, here.

Wild-Caught Salmon Recipe With Sweet Potato

Our wild-caught salmon is sourced from fisheries that maintain sustainable salmon populations, minimize the impact to their habitats, and support the livelihood of fisherfolk and fishing communities. Give your pup a taste, here.

Wild Venison Recipe With Cranberry

Responsibly sourced wild venison is a lean source of protein and is packed full of nutrients. This is one treat your dog will be missing dearly the second they finish. Check it out, here.

Cage-Free Duck Recipe With Carrot

You are what you eat, which is why this recipe only uses duck raised on a vegetarian diet, free of any other animal products, and of course, without antibiotics. You can find it, here.

From macro to micro we need to start taking action and preventing what many believe is an impending climate disaster for our planet. Here at CANIDAE®, we don’t want you to panic but do want to give you and your dog a hand in being as sustainable as possible. That’s why we’ve expanded our Sustain line with more tasty recipes than ever before. 

There’s no better time than now to transition your dog to one of our delicious Sustain recipes. 

The post The Great Sustain Expansion: More Choice, More Sustainability first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Moving to a new home can be scary, whether you’re human or feline. Fortunately for your cat, their moving day should be relatively easy — at least once their new environment is prepared. 

If you’ve just adopted a new cat or kitten, or are moving your family pet into a new home, we’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks from Canidae’s Cat Lovers Club to help you make the switch from ”scaredy-cat” to “happy kitty.”

Moving Cats to the New Home: Take It Slow

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your new cat will need time to get used to her new family and territory. Start with a “safe room” that is equipped with food, water and her litter box, and then gradually let her explore new spaces, one room at a time. Your new cat will want to explore every nook and cranny of her new territory, so cat proofing is a great idea. Make sure you put away breakables and hide anything your cat might see as edible!

Already have a family dog? While a lot of cats and dogs can live in harmony, there are some dogs who simply cannot live safely with cats. Before introducing your pets to each other, do some research on how to safely integrate and remember, take it slow!

Litter Box and Litter

Cat owners know how fussy felines can be about where they relieve themselves. To keep your home clean and smelling fresh, it’s a good idea to select your litter box carefully: The design, size, shape, and features can make or break a cat’s bathroom habits. Get the right litter box and your cat will happily do its business there, rather than on the floor. 

So, what are the best cat litter boxes? Wirecutter has a great round-up here. 

When it comes to selecting your litter, there are many different features and factors to consider, from flushable to non-flushable, clumping, odor-eliminating or fragranced, and more. Check out this great article on picking the right litter for your pet.  

Cat Toys and Accessories

Want to know a great way to create a bond with your new cat? Give it some toys! 

Cat trees and scratching posts help to reduce stress for indoor cats. Cats naturally enjoy hiding, climbing, and sitting on cat trees and surveying the world, but when they’re stuck indoors they can’t follow their instincts like this. Cat trees allow cats to run, climb and jump, give them a place to perch, and provide them with cozy cubby holes where they can hide.

Another cat accessory you can purchase to make your cat or kitten comfortable is a pheromone spray. These help to mimic natural pheromones that calm cats down, make them feel safe and reduce stress-related behaviors.

Water 

Hydration is key, make sure your new feline friend has enough water! According to Pet MD, your cat needs a daily amount of about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of their body weight. So, if your cat weighs in at 10 pounds, he should be drinking between 7 to 9 ounces of water a day. If you often feed your cat wet food, you may notice they don’t drink quite as much water. 

Ever wondered why your cat seems to prefer running water? It’s simply a natural instinct. While you can’t always be there to turn on a tap, you can do your cat a solid by investing in a cat water fountain!

Food

If showing signs of stress, your cat may not eat much during the first day or two, and may even experience temporary diarrhea. Make sure their normal food is easily accessible in a quiet location. If your cat seems reluctant to eat, try a few extra-tasty cat treats that include tuna or salmon. Pay close attention to whether or not they are eating. You can also encourage them to explore their new environment by hiding small amounts of dry food around the house. 

Your Cat Will Feel Right at Home with Canidae’s Indoor Cats Formula with Real Whitefish

CANIDAE® Goodness Indoor Cats Formula with Real Whitefish has been developed with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and is packed with fish for optimal protein nutrition to support healthy weight, as well as natural fiber from garbanzo beans and flaxseed to keep your cat feeling full and content.

If you are considering feeding your cat Canidae, check our transition guide and always check with your vet if you have any questions about how to switch to Canidae’s delicious recipes today.

The post Top Tips for Introducing a Cat to a New Home first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Unprecedented heatwaves, terrifying storms, widespread water shortages and the extinction of a million species of plants and animals: The world is on a “fast track” to disaster as a new flagship UN report warns it’s “now or never” to limit global warming.

You’ve been told again and again to recycle, save water and drive your car less. And yes, everyone should do what they can on an individual level. But here at Canidae®, we believe large organizations, governments and companies have an even bigger responsibility to make our world more sustainable and avert climate disaster.

The carbon pawprint of the pet food industry is no small one. Global pet food production accounts for the release of 106 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalents per year. That means if “pet food” were a country, it would be the 60th highest emitter in the world — with higher emissions than Mozambique, which has 26 million people. 

Canidae: Committed to Making Pet Food Sustainable

Since our launch in 1996, Canidae has been committed to the idea that a pet food company should deliver goodness not just for pets, but also for the planet.

Sustain is our sustainable dog food line. We balance pet nutrition with planet protection and have recently expanded to include more products that bring you sustainable proteins and packaging. In fact, our 40% PCR (post-consumer recycled materials) packaging is an industry high. 

Imports, shipping and gas-guzzling trucks have a big environmental impact, so we aim to keep our pawprint low by using rail to lower carbon emissions. What’s more, we make the majority of our food right here in our own plant in Brownwood, TX, further reducing unnecessary transportation.

As well as using responsibly sourced proteins such as cage-free chicken and sustainably sourced Alaskan salmon, we have also introduced a plant-based recipe to our Sustain line. With over 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions coming from the meat and dairy industry, we chose to develop our first plant-based kibble using upcycled brewer’s yeast as a sustainable protein source.

Setting Targets: The Pet Food Industry Can’t Stand Still

Despite Canidae’s current commitments, it’s no time to pat ourselves on the back. Urgent action is needed to prevent climate disaster and this cannot be done without setting some serious targets.

Plastics and Packaging

Plastic is made to last, and it does — often for 400 years or more. The production and incineration of plastic, which is largely made from fossil fuels, adds 850 million metric tons of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, and this could rise to 2.8 gigatons by 2050. To add to that, plastic is so invasive that microplastics can be found in almost 80% of people’s blood. 

You get it, plastic is a problem. But what can be done to reduce our reliance on it? Here at Canidae, we’ve committed to reducing our use of single-use plastics by 80% over the next 8 years. That’s in addition to our pledge to expand recycled packaging across all of our products.

Still, we don’t think that’s enough. Perhaps one way of getting rid of plastic is to remove packaging altogether. Zero waste shops (sometimes known as refill stores) aim to cut out unnecessary packaging by allowing shoppers to fill up their own containers with human food, soaps and shampoos. 

Canidae took inspiration from this and recently launched the first-ever sustainable bulk-buy pet food machine at Petco stores in Southern California, reducing waste with reusable, food-safe bags. We plan to expand these machines across the country in 2023 and hope to eliminate 50,000 dog food bags within one year of rolling out the refill stations. 

Plants

Over 1 billion pounds of pest-killing chemicals are used in the United States every year. And that’s before you even consider the effects of water usage on the environment. In fact, modern agriculture is by practice unsustainable. To quote Dr. Andy Dyer, “the damage to the soil and natural ecosystems is so great that farming becomes dependent not on the land but on the artificial inputs into the process, such as fertilizers and pesticides.”

That’s why we believe regenerative agriculture is key to reducing climate change. We source regeneratively farmed grains and vegetables and have partnered with Greenfield Robotics and US farmers who use cutting-edge technology to scale regenerative farming practices and reduce the negative impact on precious farmlands.

But as we mentioned before, this isn’t a moment to congratulate ourselves, it’s a moment to reach for higher targets. That’s why we have set two ambitious goals: to get 50% of our plant products from regeneratively farmed crops, where possible, by 2023 and to source over 80% of potential regeneratively farmed ingredients from regenerative crops by 2030.

Proteins

It’s no secret how damaging meat production is to the environment. Meat accounts for nearly 60% of all greenhouse gases from food production, as a result of many factors including, but not limited to, the felling of forests to clear space for livestock, the crops needed to feed farm animals and the large quantities of methane they produce.  

Many humans have reduced their meat intake and now successfully follow a meat-free or vegan diet. As we mentioned before, Canidae has launched its first plant-based dog food. Sustain Plant-Based releases fewer carbon emissions compared to meat-based recipes, and includes brewer’s yeast which is upcycled from the brewing industry.

There is some debate over whether it is healthy for dogs to eat a plant-based diet, but it is possible with a properly formulated, complete and balanced diet. Cats and dogs are very different creatures, and unlike their canine counterparts, cats need to eat meat to fulfill their unique requirements for specific amino acids, vitamins and fatty acids. In this case, non-plant-based solutions are needed to create sustainable cat food.

Lab-grown meat (also known as cultivated or cultured meat) is a developing field, but once streamlined will use significantly less land and water, and emit fewer greenhouse gases. If you’re not sold yet, experts believe it could reduce both food-borne illnesses and our reliance on antibiotics. 

10 quintillion. That’s probably not a number you’ve heard before, but that’s the amount of insects alive right now. With that many insects (which probably have the largest biomass of all animals) there is room for them to be used as a food source. 

In parts of Africa, Asia and South America, some humans eat insects. Edible insects contain “high-quality protein, vitamins and amino acids,” emit fewer greenhouse gases, and require six times less feed than cattle to produce the same amount of protein. 

Canidae believes this is an area that merits close attention. We are committed to continuing to add more sustainable and humanely-raised meat and fish to our recipes where possible, as well as exploring alternative proteins such as lab-grown meat and insect protein. 

Climate change isn’t a simple issue and that means there isn’t a simple answer. That’s why Canidae is committed to looking at the big picture and powering full steam ahead with a wide range of sustainable practices. Our planet-friendly mantra is “progress over perfection” and we look forward to bringing you along for the ride as we continue to change the pet food industry for good.  

Read more about our story and how exactly we are bringing goodness to pets, people, and the planet.

The post Sustainability and Pet Food: Why We Must Reduce Our Pawprint first appeared on CANIDAE®.

You’ve probably seen your dog slurp up a loose sweet potato fry at breakneck speeds. Or maybe they sit by the oven, hypnotized, as a sweet potato casserole heats up inside. What you may wonder is if sweet potatoes are actually good for dogs. 

For dog owners there’s no doubt: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, vitamins A and C, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium and fiber. A great addition for healthy eating, sweet potatoes offer many human health benefits including a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. They are also a great source of copper, iron and manganese.

These three minerals are essential for dogs, so does that mean your pup can regularly enjoy sweet potato too? Join us as we look into whether you can feed these healthy spuds to your best buds.

Sweet Potato: a Powerful Superfood

The humble sweet potato is a root vegetable which you can find in most grocery stores around the world. 

Ever heard the term superfood? Unlike white potatoes, sweet potatoes are considered a human superfood, thanks to their many health benefits. They are an excellent source of beta carotene, vitamin C, and potassium, and when baked with their skin on contain high levels of plant-based protein, fiber and minerals.

Food That Can Fight Cancer

But are sweet potatoes good for your dog too? Animal-based research, including studies on mice, may help to give us some sort of a clue. In a 2013 study, it was found that purple sweet potatoes offer various antioxidants, which help protect against certain types of cancers.

Anthocyanins are one of these antioxidants and they can be found in purple sweet potatoes. Test-tube studies suggest they slow the growth of certain types of cancer cells, including those of the bladder, colon, stomach and breast.

Similarly, it was found that mice fed diets rich in purple sweet potatoes had a reduced risk of early-stage colon cancer.

Super Charge Your Dog’s Brain Function?

Another study conducted on mice found that consuming purple sweet potatoes may improve brain function. They found that the same group of antioxidants that held cancer-fighting properties — anthocyanins — can protect the brain by reducing inflammation. Supplementing with anthocyanin-rich sweet potato extract improved learning and memory in mice. The only downside? If it’s true for your dog too then he might remember the time you stood on his tail! 

Great for Gut Health

Cooked sweet potatoes are relatively high in fiber. Fiber helps your dog maintain a healthy balance in the gut, which regulates the bowels and keeps the colon healthy, too. It comes in both soluble (digestible) and insoluble (not digestible) forms, and both have their place in the body’s ecosystem. 

Digestible fiber can be broken down and processed in your dog’s gut, while indigestible fiber essentially gives the gut a massage to reduce inflammation and clean the mucous membranes. 

When it comes to doggy digestion, we often find a happy gut equals a happy pup! 

Wait, Can Dogs Be Allergic to Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, and no. 

If the sweet potatoes are cooked and peeled they are usually digestible for most dogs. Although dogs can potentially become allergic to any food they are repeatedly exposed to, sweet potatoes are not a common allergen. You should however always be aware of potential food allergies when feeding your pet something new. Keep a close eye out for any itchiness, breathing difficulties, or rashes, and be sure to consult a veterinarian if you have any doubts.

Likewise, if your dog has any health concerns (such as obesity or diabetes) you should speak to your vet before adding specific foods or treats to their diet.

How Much Sweet Potato Should My Pup Have? 

Like with any food, moderation is key. The amount of sweet potato given should be based on a variety of factors, such as your dog’s size, activity level, and overall health. Unfortunately, there is too much of a good thing — feeding your dog too much sweet potato ”can cause bone and muscle weakness, due to excessive vitamin A.”

If you are adding sweet potato to your dog’s diet, make sure it’s cooked and not raw. Raw potatoes are difficult to digest and can cause stomach problems. When cooking, it’s important not to include potentially harmful ingredients like butter, sugar, and seasoning, etc. Also, remember to not give your pup a whole sweet potato as this could be a choking hazard. 

Try Our PURE Grain Free Dry Dog Food With Salmon and Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes can be used as a healthy source of carbohydrates in pet food. While slipping your best friend some cooked sweet potato from your dinner plate might be tempting, the best way to add sweet potato to your dog’s diet is with CANIDAE® PURE Grain Free Dry Dog Food with Salmon and Sweet Potato. 

Our vet formulated salmon and sweet potato dog food has only 8 key ingredients — keeping it simple, healthy, nutritious, and without any unnecessary and nasty additives. As well as delicious sweet potatoes and salmon, PURE is also packed full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and even a probiotics mix.

Check our transition guide and remember to always check with your vet if you have any doubts about how to switch to Canidae’s delicious recipes today!

The post Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes? first appeared on CANIDAE®.

Every cat looks different, acts differently and has its own unique needs, so a one-size-fits-all attitude to feeding them doesn’t make sense. It’s important to take certain things into account when deciding which food to feed your feline. 

As cat lovers, we’re committed to feeding your cat the goodness they deserve by crafting recipes designed for whole-body health made with the best ingredients. Our mission is to provide goodness to pets and the planet, adopting regeneratively farmed ingredients and sustainable packaging solutions. 

Join us as we give you the lowdown on our recently enhanced and diverse line of cat foods — from wet to dry, poultry to fish, a focus on digestion or fur, and lots, lots more.

Canidae Goodness for Cats

Canidae Goodness offers health-first diets formulated with proven ingredients to support healthy cats. Each diet was developed with a board-certified vet nutritionist, has real poultry or fish as the first ingredient and is made in the USA.

What’s more, with Goodness, every bite has been precisely fortified with HealthPLUS Solutions® — guaranteeing nutrients, antioxidants and probiotics that are carefully balanced to support your cat’s overall health. 

And because variety is the spice of life, we’ve got four delicious options for your cat — each one with a different focus but still packed full of face-licking flavor and nutrients.

Goodness for Digestion

If you’re a healthy cat, then eating is pretty easy, especially if your pet parent is giving you delicious Canidae food. Unfortunately, for some pets, digesting can be a little bit more complicated. Made with real chicken, probiotics, fiber, and other digestible ingredients, Goodness for Digestion assists the process and is formulated to support healthy digestion in cats. 

Canidae Goodness for Digestion is now available via our national partner Petco, you can order it here. 

Goodness for Indoor Cats

While their ancestors were always out on the prowl, many cats spend the majority of their lives indoors. If your cat is a homebody, it’s worth checking out Goodness for Indoor Cats. Packed with natural fiber and real whitefish, this recipe provides quality protein to support healthy indoor cats.

Goodness for Joints

Does your cat need a bit of support? Goodness for Joints is made with real salmon as the first ingredient and includes glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and calcium — which are all proven to support healthy joints.

Goodness for Skin & Coat

Give your cat the healthiest skin and fur with Goodness for Skin & Coat. Full of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, zinc and biotin to support healthy skin and coat, and packing real salmon as the first ingredient, this tasty recipe is sure to go down well with your cat.

Canidae Goodness for Skin & Coat is now available via our national partner Petco, you can order it here. 

The sun is always shining for Canidae and we’ve just updated our packaging to reflect this. Our trademark Goodness is now branded with the glorious rising sun, providing the perfect backdrop for your cat’s favorite food. You should already be seeing these latest bags of Goodness phasing into stores now.

Canidae Balanced Bowl

Do you ever look down at your cat while you’re preparing dinner, catching the look on their face as they inhale the aromas coming from your delicious home cooking? Feeding a cat “human food” comes with its risks, which is why we’ve developed the perfect solution. Canidae Balanced Bowl offers a delicious line of recipes inspired by everyday meals pet parents cook in the kitchen, so pet and parent can both enjoy a thoroughly satisfying meal.

Balanced Bowl is made with chunks of high-quality real fish or poultry as the first ingredient and supplemented with a delicious gravy and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkin. It’s formulated without corn, wheat, soy, and carrageenan — a potentially harmful extract from red seaweed.

Each recipe is crafted with enticing flavors that any cat is bound to love. You can use Balanced Bowl as a complete meal or as a topper if you prefer dry kibble to form the bulk of your cat’s diet. 

We’ve also updated the Balanced Bowl packaging with our trademark sun balancing on the horizon. You’ll see this update in stores around May.

Canidae Balanced Bowl is available via our national partner Petco:

• Tuna & Carrots Recipe
• Chicken & Pumpkin Recipe
• Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe

Canidae Pure

Dry

For a limited-ingredient diet, there’s no better choice than Canidae’s Pure line of recipes. And now Pure is better than ever: We’ve just optimized and upgraded the nutritional content with a new vitamin and mineral blend, plus we’ve improved the natural flavor. Focusing on gentle digestion, Pure has real meat as the first ingredient and is also grain-free.

Our delicious recipes keep things as simple as possible: Our Premium Recipe with Real Chicken and Premium Recipe with Real Salmon only have seven key ingredients and our Healthy Weight Premium Recipe with Real Tuna only has nine. 

These updated recipes (along with updated packaging, of course!) are phasing into stores right now. 

Our good friends at Petco are stocking them all, so make sure to put your order in:

• Premium Recipe with Real Chicken
• Premium Recipe with Real Salmon
• Healthy Weight Premium Recipe with Real Tuna

Wet

Does your cat want more of Canidae Adore? Well, there’s no need to worry — Adore still lives on but we’ve rebranded it as Canidae Pure; it’s a new design but the same great canned food your cat can’t get enough of.

Canidae Pure wet keeps the same ethos as its dry counterpart; it’s grain-free and always puts real ingredients first, this time with premium broths and real chicken or fish. There are no meat by-products or filler ingredients, artificial flavors, or carrageenan. Pure’s sumptuous shreds provide the texture that cats relish.

The good news is that it comes in four specially selected varieties: Pure Goodness with Tuna, Chicken & Whitefish, Pure Goodness with Tuna, Chicken & Mackerel, Pure Goodness with Salmon & Whitefish and Pure Goodness with Sardine & Mackerel. 

It’ll be Adore no more from early this summer; you should see Pure cans phased in during June and July. 

In the meantime, you can purchase Canidae Adore from Petco: 

• Canidae Adore with Tuna, Chicken & Whitefish
• Canidae Adore with Tuna, Chicken & Mackerel 
• Canidae Adore with Salmon & Whitefish 
• Canidae Adore with Sardine & Mackerel

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No matter how big, small, shy or strange your cat is, we’ve got the recipe for you. Canidae’s recipes are packed full of healthy ingredients and specially formulated to provide your cat with optimal nutrition. But before changing your cat’s diet make sure to consult our transitioning guide, and if you have any doubts, contact your veterinarian.

Canidae cat food is developed in partnership with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. No fillers, no artificial flavors or artificial preservatives, just complete & balanced goodness. 

Discuss transitioning your cat to one of Canidae’s delicious and healthy recipes today.

The post Our Cat Food Just Got Better: The Lowdown on Our Updated Recipes and Packaging first appeared on CANIDAE®.