When it comes to nutrition, I believe in keeping things as natural and species-appropriate as possible. For dogs and cats, this can mean choosing fresh, minimally processed foods and, where appropriate for the individual animal, a carefully formulated raw diet.

For many years, commercial processed foods have been the most commonly recommended and convenient way of feeding our pets. However, there is now growing interest among pet owners, veterinarians and animal nutrition professionals in fresh-food feeding and the role nutrition may play in supporting long-term health and wellbeing.

Veterinarians and animal health professionals such as Dr Clare Middle, Dr Bruce Syme of Vets All Natural, and Dr Ian Billinghurst, who popularised the BARF approach to feeding, have helped bring greater attention to fresh and raw feeding for companion animals.

The Biological Perspective

Dogs and cats evolved eating foods very different from the highly processed diets available today. Cats are obligate carnivores, while dogs are highly adapted to obtaining much of their nutrition from animal-based foods.

Fresh meat, organs and appropriately prepared raw meaty bones can provide naturally occurring protein, fats, vitamins and minerals. However, simply feeding raw meat is not the same as feeding a complete and balanced diet.

Modern commercial diets can vary enormously in their ingredients, processing methods and nutritional quality. Rather than looking at feeding as simply “raw versus kibble,” I prefer to look at the individual animal, the quality of the ingredients, the degree of processing, nutritional balance and how well that particular dog or cat responds to the diet.

Digestive Issues and Transitioning to Fresh Food

In my experience, many dogs with sensitive digestive systems have been eating highly processed foods for a long time before their owners consider changing their diet.

When fresh or raw food is introduced, some dogs adapt very easily, while others may experience temporary digestive changes. This does not necessarily mean that the animal is unable to tolerate fresh food. The transition itself may need to be slower and more carefully managed.

For sensitive dogs, I often recommend introducing new foods gradually and keeping the diet simple at the beginning. In some circumstances, lightly cooked fresh food may also be a more appropriate starting point before considering raw feeding.

Every animal is different. Age, activity level, body condition, medical history, digestive health and individual food sensitivities should all be considered.

The “Balanced Diet” Debate

One of the most common concerns surrounding home-prepared raw diets is whether they provide all of the nutrients a dog requires. This is an important consideration, particularly for puppies, pregnant or lactating dogs, senior animals and dogs with medical conditions.A properly formulated fresh or raw diet involves much more than simply putting meat into a bowl.

Depending on the individual dog, a balanced diet may incorporate:

👉🏻Muscle meat and other animal proteins — providing protein, essential amino acids and naturally occurring nutrients.

👉🏻Organs — such as liver and other secreting organs, which provide important vitamins and minerals.

👉🏻Appropriate sources of calcium and phosphorus — which may include suitable raw meaty bones or another carefully calculated calcium source.

👉🏻Vegetables and other plant foods, where appropriate — I generally prefer vegetables finely blended or prepared in a way that makes them easier for the dog to utilise.

👉🏻Essential fatty acids and other nutrients — which may need to be included depending on the ingredients used in the diet.

Variety can help provide a broader range of naturally occurring nutrients, but variety alone does not guarantee nutritional balance. The proportions and overall nutrient content of the diet matter too.

The goal isn’t simply to feed “raw.” The goal is to provide fresh, appropriate and nutritionally balanced food that suits the individual dog.

Ideally, I want every pet to thrive on the least processed, most appropriate diet that works for them. For some dogs that may be raw; for others, particularly those with digestive or medical concerns, a gently cooked fresh diet may be more suitable. I always try raw first but if this doesn’t agree with your pupil then we do lightly cooking.

If your pet has an existing health condition, is taking medication, is a growing puppy, or you’re unsure how to formulate or transition to a fresh diet safely, seek veterinary advice and appropriate nutritional guidance.

Good nutrition isn’t about following a trend. It’s about understanding the individual animal and giving their body the nutrients it needs to thrive.

The post Food as the Foundation of Health appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

Dogs Are Not Designed to Digest Dairy

Dogs are biologically designed to digest animal protein and fat, not dairy products made from another species’ milk.Most dogs produce very low levels of lactase — the enzyme needed to break down lactose found in dairy. This means that even if symptoms are not immediately obvious, dairy can still place stress on the digestive system and contribute to gut irritation.

Some dogs tolerate cheese better than others, but tolerance does not always mean it is beneficial.

Common Digestive Issues Caused by Cheese

Cheese can irritate the digestive tract and disrupt gut balance, especially in dogs with sensitive stomachs or underlying inflammation. Symptoms may include:

👉🏻diarrhea

👉🏻soft stools

👉🏻bloating

👉🏻gas

👉🏻stomach pain

👉🏻nausea

👉🏻omiting

👉🏻reflux

👉🏻excessive licking

👉🏻loss of appetite

In some dogs, symptoms appear within hours. In others, chronic exposure creates slow ongoing inflammation that owners may not connect to food.

Cheese Can Feed Inflammation

Many cheeses contain inflammatory proteins and processed fats that may worsen existing health conditions.

This can contribute to:

👉🏻itchy skin

👉🏻paw licking

👉🏻ecurring ear infections

👉🏻yeast overgrowth

👉🏻hot spots

👉🏻chronic inflammation

👉🏻joint discomfort

Dogs already struggling with allergies, gut imbalance, or immune dysregulation are often the most reactive.

The Hidden Risk of Pancreatitis

One of the biggest concerns with cheese is its fat content. Even a small amount of high-fat cheese can trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs — a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.

Dogs at higher risk include:

🐶small breeds

🐶overweight dogs

🐶senior dogs

🐶dogs with previous digestive issues

🐶dogs eating processed diets

🐶dogs with metabolic conditions

Symptoms of pancreatitis may include:

👉🏻vomiting

👉🏻shaking

👉🏻severe abdominal pain

👉🏻diarrhea

👉🏻lethargy

👉🏻refusing food

👉🏻hunched posture

Some dogs require emergency veterinary care and hospitalization.

Cheese and Gut Health. A healthy gut is essential for immune function, nutrient absorption, skin health, and emotional balance. In many dogs, dairy can negatively affect the gut microbiome and contribute to intestinal irritation. Over time this may increase sensitivity to foods, environmental allergens, and stress. Chronic low-grade gut inflammation is often overlooked because symptoms may seem “normal”:

👉🏻occasional loose stool

👉🏻recurring yeast

👉🏻bad breath

👉🏻licking paws

👉🏻inconsistent appetite

👉🏻smelly ears

But these signs can indicate the body is struggling with inflammation internally.

Many commercial cheeses also contain:

👉🏻excessive sodium

👉🏻preservatives

👉🏻artificial flavors

👉🏻colorings

👉🏻stabilizers

Some flavored cheeses may contain dangerous ingredients such as: garlic, onion, herbs toxic to dogs, artificial sweeteners

Even “healthy” cheese snacks can become problematic when fed regularly.

“But My Dog Eats Cheese and Seems Fine” This is something many owners say — and sometimes dogs do appear okay initially. However, food sensitivities and inflammation often build gradually over time. Symptoms may develop slowly and become normalised:

👉🏻itching

👉🏻ear infections

👉🏻yeast

👉🏻digestive upset

👉🏻anxiety

👉🏻poor coat quality

👉🏻recurring inflammation

The body can compensate for a long time before obvious disease appears.

There are many healthier reward options for dogs that are more species-appropriate and easier to digest, including:

👉🏻fresh meat

👉🏻dehydrated single-ingredient treats

👉🏻small amounts of balanced raw food

👉🏻species-appropriate whole foods

Every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

Cheese may seem like a tiny treat, but for some dogs it can create significant stress on the digestive and immune systems. While occasional exposure may not harm every dog, regular feeding of cheese can contribute to inflammation, gut imbalance, skin flare-ups, obesity, and even pancreatitis in sensitive animals. When it comes to canine nutrition, “small amounts” do not always mean harmless. Looking at the long-term impact of foods — not just immediate reactions — is one of the most important steps in supporting true health and wellbeing in dogs.

The post Cheese for dogs- good or harmful? appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the potential risks:

 1. Too much calcium (especially in balanced diets)

Eggshells are almost pure calcium carbonate. If you add them regularly on top of a complete diet, you can easily overshoot calcium needs.

This can lead to:

-mineral imbalance (calcium : phosphorus ratio disruption)

-reduced absorption of other minerals like zinc and magnesium

-long-term stress on kidneys in sensitive dogs

This is especially important for dogs already eating:

-commercial complete food (kibble/wet)

-properly balanced raw diets

 2. Bone and joint imbalance in growing dogs

In puppies, excess calcium is more serious. Too much calcium during growth can interfere with proper skeletal development and increase the risk of:

-joint abnormalities

-improper bone density regulation

-developmental orthopedic issues

Eggshells should not be used casually in growing dogs without formulation guidance.

 3. Bacterial contamination (Salmonella risk)

Raw eggshells can carry bacteria such as Salmonella.

Risk increases if:

-shells are not washed properly

-they are not heat-treated or baked before grinding

-they are stored in humid conditions

A safer approach is:

-wash thoroughly

-bake at low heat (around 100–120°C) for 10–15 minutes

-grind into fine powder

4. Sharp fragments if not ground properly

If eggshells are not finely ground, small sharp pieces can:

-irritate the mouth or gums

-cause mild digestive irritation

-in rare cases, contribute to intestinal discomfort

Powder form is much safer than crushed shells.

5. It can mask a deeper dietary imbalance

Regular eggshell supplementation is sometimes a sign that the base diet is not properly balanced.

For example:

-too little bone content in raw diet

-incorrect calcium-to-phosphorus ratio

-over-reliance on muscle meat without formulation

Eggshells can correct calcium short-term, but they don’t fix the overall diet structure.

 So are eggshells ever useful?

Yes—but only in specific situations:

-when calcium is needed in a carefully balanced raw diet

-when used in very small, measured amounts

-when properly cleaned, baked, and ground

A general safe guideline (very broad) is:
👉 small pinch of eggshell powder per meal, not daily “free pouring”

But ideally, calcium should be calculated as part of the whole diet plan rather than added casually.Eggshells are a natural calcium source, but “natural” doesn’t automatically mean “safe in unlimited use.” Regular unsupervised supplementation can lead to mineral imbalance, especially in puppies or dogs already on balanced food.

If you’re feeding raw or home-prepared meals, it’s better to treat eggshells as a precise nutritional tool, not a daily habit.

ready on balanced food.

The post Are Eggshells Safe for Dogs?  appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

The thyroid gland may be small, but it plays a huge role in your dog’s overall health. It helps regulate metabolism, energy production, skin and coat condition, temperature regulation, and even emotional wellbeing.

When the thyroid is under stress, the entire body can feel the effects.

Common signs:

👉🏽Low energy or fatigue

👉🏽Unexplained weight gain

👉🏽Hair thinning or hair loss

👉🏽Dry, itchy skin

👉🏽Frequent ear infections

👉🏽Increased sensitivity to cold

👉🏽Brain fog or behavioural changes

👉🏽Slow recovery and reduced vitality

While medication can be necessary in some cases, many dogs also benefit greatly from natural lifestyle and nutritional support.One of the biggest contributors to chronic inflammation in dogs today is highly processed food.

Many commercial diets and treats contain:

-Low-quality protein sources

-Artificial additives

-Excess fillers

-Preservatives

-Oxidized fats

-High carbohydrate loads

Over time, this can place additional stress on the body and immune system. Dogs thrive on species-appropriate nutrition.

High-quality protein helps support:

👉🏽Muscle maintenance

👉🏽Hormone production

👉🏽Energy levels

👉🏽Immune health

👉🏽Skin and coat repair

Choosing cleaner, less processed protein sources can make a significant difference in how a dog feels and functions.

Reduce Processed Foods and Treats

Many treats marketed as “healthy” are still heavily processed and full of unnecessary ingredients.

Instead, focus on:

-Simpler ingredient lists

-Whole-food-based nutrition

-Fresh food additions when appropriate

-Minimizing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

Reducing the toxic load on the body may help support overall wellness and vitality.

Healthy fats are incredibly important for dogs with thyroid imbalance. Omega-3 fatty acids may help support:

• Skin health
• Coat quality
• Joint comfort
• Cognitive function
• A balanced inflammatory response

When the body is less inflamed, dogs often have better energy, mobility, and resilience.

Some herbs and natural approaches may also help support dogs dealing with thyroid imbalance. However, it is important to remember that every dog is unique.

What works beautifully for one dog may not be appropriate for another depending on:

-Age

-Breed

-Current diet

-Medications

-Underlying health conditions

-Gut health and inflammation levels

This is why working with a qualified canine nutritionist or holistic practitioner can be incredibly valuable. A personalized approach often creates the best long-term results.

Thyroid health is rarely just about one organ.

The body works as an interconnected system, and supporting overall wellness can have a positive ripple effect throughout the entire body.

Helpful lifestyle considerations include:

👉🏽Maintaining a healthy weight

👉🏽Gentle daily movement

👉🏽Lowering stress

👉🏽Good sleep and recovery

👉🏽Reducing exposure to unnecessary chemicals and toxins

No two dogs are exactly alike.

Some dogs need conventional medical treatment alongside nutritional support, while others improve significantly once inflammation, diet quality, and lifestyle are addressed.

The goal is not simply to “manage symptoms,” but to help the body function in a healthier and more balanced way.

When we nourish dogs with cleaner nutrition, real ingredients, and supportive care, we give their bodies the opportunity to heal, restore, and thrive naturally.

The post Thyroid Issues and Natural Support appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

1. Dogs are built to thrive on animal protein

Dogs are biologically designed as carnivores with omnivorous adaptability. That means their bodies are built to get most of their nutrition from animal-based proteins and fats.

Corn, on the other hand, is a plant-based carbohydrate. While it can provide energy, it does not supply the full spectrum of amino acids dogs need for:

👉🏻muscle maintenance

👉🏻immune function

👉🏻skin and coat health

👉🏻organ repair

When corn takes up space in the diet, it often replaces more valuable ingredients like meat, organs, and healthy fats.

2. It is a high-carbohydrate ingredient dogs don’t need in large amounts

Corn is mostly starch. In the digestive system, this starch is rapidly broken down into glucose (sugar), which can lead to:

👉🏻blood sugar spikes

👉🏻energy fluctuations

👉🏻weight gain over time if overfed

Dogs do not have a biological requirement for high levels of carbohydrates, especially in processed form. Excess starch is often stored as fat rather than used efficiently.

3. Digestibility can be poor

Whole or minimally processed corn kernels can be difficult for dogs to fully digest. You may sometimes notice undigested pieces in stool, which shows that the nutrients were not fully absorbed.

Even processed corn (like corn meal) is more digestible than whole kernels, but still not as efficiently utilized as animal-based ingredients.

4. Potential for food sensitivities

Corn is not the most common allergen in dogs, but it can still contribute to food intolerances in some individuals. When sensitivity occurs, symptoms may include:

👉🏻itchy skin or paw licking

👉🏻recurring ear infections

👉🏻soft stools or diarrhea

👉🏻gas or bloating

Because corn is so widely used, it can also make it harder to identify the true cause of an allergy when symptoms appear.

5. Often used as a low-cost filler ingredient

One of the biggest concerns with corn is not corn itself—but how it is used in pet food.

In many commercial diets, corn is included to:

• bulk up the food
• reduce manufacturing costs
• increase carbohydrate content cheaply

This can come at the expense of higher-quality ingredients like fresh meat or nutrient-dense organ meats that better support a dog’s natural needs.

6. Quality and contamination concerns

Corn, like other grains, can be susceptible to mold growth if not properly stored. Some molds produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful if present in significant amounts.

Reputable pet food companies test for these contaminants, but lower-quality sourcing increases risk.

So… should dogs never eat corn?

Corn is not toxic to dogs. Many dogs eat it without obvious problems. However, it is best viewed as an optional, low-value ingredient rather than a beneficial one.

For optimal health, dogs generally do better on diets built around:

• high-quality animal protein
• healthy fats
• digestible vegetables in moderation
• minimal processed fillers

Corn isn’t necessarily “dangerous,” but it is far from an ideal foundation for canine nutrition. When choosing food for your dog, it’s worth looking beyond cheap fillers and focusing on ingredients that truly support energy, digestion, and long-term health.

A simple rule many dog owners follow is: if an ingredient mainly benefits the manufacturer’s cost rather than the dog’s body, it’s probably not doing much good in the bowl either.

The post Corn for dogs? Have a read before you add to a meal appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

For years, these unique shellfish have been used to support dogs suffering from arthritis, inflammation, mobility issues, allergies, and even gut problems. But their benefits go far beyond joints alone.

As a dog nutritionist, I love using Green Lipped Mussels as part of a functional, whole-food approach to canine health.

What Are Green Lipped Mussels?

Green-lipped mussel are shellfish native to the clean coastal waters of New Zealand. They are named after the distinctive green edge around their shells.

Unlike many synthetic supplements, Green Lipped Mussels are a whole food. This means they naturally contain a wide range of nutrients working together synergistically.

They are rich in:

-Omega-3 fatty acids,

-ETA (a rare anti-inflammatory fatty acid),

-glucosamine,

-chondroitin,

-amino acids,

-zinc,

-selenium,

-vitamins and minerals.

Benefits of Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs

1. Natural Anti-Inflammatory Support

One of the biggest reasons Green Lipped Mussels are so popular is their powerful anti-inflammatory effect.

They contain a unique omega-3 fatty acid called ETA, which may help reduce inflammation naturally without the harsh side effects often associated with long-term medications.

This can be beneficial for dogs with:

-arthritis,

-joint pain,

-hip dysplasia,

-stiffness,

-inflammatory conditions,

-aging-related mobility problems.

2. Joint and Mobility Support

Green Lipped Mussels naturally contain glucosamine and chondroitin — compounds that support cartilage, joints, and connective tissue.

Many owners notice improvements in:

-stiffness after rest,

-difficulty getting up,

-reduced activity,

-limping,

-exercise recovery.

They can be especially helpful for:

-senior dogs,

-large breeds,

-active and sporting dogs,

-dogs recovering from injury.

3. Skin and Coat Health

The omega-3 content may also help support:

-itchy skin,

-dry coat,

-inflammation-related skin issues,

-excessive shedding.

For some dogs with allergies or environmental sensitivities, adding Green Lipped Mussels can gently support the skin barrier and reduce overall inflammation in the body.

4. Gut Health Support

Many people are surprised to learn that reducing inflammation in the body may also positively affect the digestive system.

Some dogs with inflammatory gut conditions may benefit from the anti-inflammatory nutrients found in Green Lipped Mussels, especially when used as part of a broader gut-healing protocol.

Fresh, Frozen or Powdered?

Green Lipped Mussels are available in several forms:

👉🏻fresh,

👉🏻frozen,

👉🏻freeze-dried,

👉🏻powdered supplements.

Freeze-dried and powdered forms are often the easiest for daily use and still retain many beneficial nutrients when processed properly.

When choosing a supplement, quality matters enormously. Look for:

-sustainably sourced mussels,

-low-temperature processing,

-no unnecessary fillers,

-New Zealand sourcing whenever possible.

Are Green Lipped Mussels Safe for Every Dog?

Most dogs tolerate them very well, but there are a few exceptions.

Use caution in dogs with:

-shellfish allergies,

-severe histamine intolerance,

-certain kidney conditions requiring mineral restrictions.

As with any new food or supplement, introduce slowly and monitor your dog’s response.

How Much Should You Give?

The ideal amount depends on:

-your dog’s size,

-overall diet,

-health conditions,

-whether you are using fresh mussels or powder.

Some dogs benefit from small maintenance amounts, while others with arthritis or inflammation may require therapeutic doses.

Because every dog is different, supplementation should always be individualised.

Nature often provides powerful tools for healing, and Green Lipped Mussels are a beautiful example of food as medicine.

The post Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs — One of Nature’s Most Powerful Superfoods appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

If your dog is constantly scratching, licking their paws, or dealing with recurring skin or ear issues… you’re not alone.

It’s one of the most common concerns dog parents come to me with.

And most of them have already tried everything — shampoos, creams, different foods, even medications…
but the itchiness keeps coming back.

Why?

Because itchiness is rarely a skin problem.
It’s your dog’s body trying to tell you something deeper is going on.

What’s Really Causing the Itch?

From my experience, the most common root cause is:

1. Gut Imbalance (Leaky Gut)

Your dog’s gut is the foundation of their health.

When it’s inflamed or imbalanced, the gut lining becomes “leaky.”
This allows undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response.

👉 And that response often shows up as:

-itchy skin

-red paws

-ear infections

-inflammation

2. Food Sensitivities (Not True Allergies)

Many dogs aren’t truly “allergic” — their body is simply overwhelmed.

Common triggers include:

-chicken

-non-organic beef

-processed kibble

-grains and fillers

When the gut is already compromised, even “good” foods can start causing reactions.

3. Yeast Overgrowth

If your dog has:

-itchy paws

-a strong smell

-recurring ear issues

…yeast is often involved.

Yeast feeds on sugars and processed carbs, which means diet plays a huge role in keeping it under control.

4. Liver Overload or Blocked Liver Function

This is a big one — and very often overlooked.

The liver is responsible for filtering toxins out of the body.
But when it becomes overloaded (due to poor diet, medications, chemicals, or toxins), it can’t keep up.

👉 So the body finds another way to detox… through the skin.

That’s when you start seeing:

-constant itching

-hot spots

-skin flare-ups

-sensitivity to foods

In many itchy dogs, the liver is either overloaded or “blocked”, meaning it’s not detoxifying efficiently.

5. Nutrient Deficiencies

Healthy skin needs the right building blocks.

Many itchy dogs are lacking:

-omega-3 fatty acids

-zinc

-key amino acids

Without these, the skin barrier becomes weak, inflamed, and more reactive. Please check the deficiency before start suplementing.

Why Nothing Seems to Work Long-Term

Most conventional approaches focus on the symptoms:

-creams

-medicated shampoos

-antihistamines

These can bring temporary relief…
but they don’t address what’s happening inside the body.

So the itch comes back — often worse than before.

If your dog is itchy, their body is communicating with you.

It’s not random.
It’s not “just allergies.”

It’s a sign that something deeper needs attention.

And once you identify the root cause…
everything starts to change — not just the skin, but your dog’s overall health, energy, and happiness.

The post Why Is My Dog So Itchy? appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

Changing your dog’s diet can feel like such a positive step…
You’re choosing better ingredients, more natural options, maybe even hoping to finally solve ongoing issues like itching, gut problems, or low energy.

But then something unexpected happens.

Your dog might get:
– softer stools
– a bit of gas
– more itching (for a short time)
– or just seem a little “off”

And suddenly you’re wondering…

“Did I make the wrong decision?”

Let me reassure you—
In many cases, this is actually part of the process.

The Body Needs Time to Adjust

Your dog’s body is incredibly intelligent.

But when you change their food—especially if you move from processed kibble to fresh, natural meals—it’s a big shift internally.

Inside your dog’s body, several things start happening at once:

🐾 The digestive system is recalibrating

Enzymes need to adjust to break down new types of proteins, fats, and nutrients.

🐾 The gut microbiome is shifting

Good bacteria start increasing, and less beneficial bacteria begin to reduce.

🐾 The body may begin gentle detox

If your dog had toxins building up (which is very common), the body may start releasing them.

And this… can temporarily show up as symptoms.

Why Symptoms Can Appear (Even on Better Food)

This is the part that confuses many dog owners.

You improve the diet…
But your dog doesn’t look better immediately.

Here’s why:

👉 The body is not just receiving nutrients—it’s responding and rebalancing

Some common short-term reactions include:

✔loose stools

✔mild itching

✔changes in appetite

✔increased shedding

✔slight behavioural shifts

These are often signs that the body is adjusting, not failing.

The Gut Plays a Huge Role

Your dog’s gut is at the centre of everything:

✔immune system

✔skin health

✔nutrient absorption

✔even mood and behaviour

When you change the diet, you’re directly influencing the gut.

If the gut was previously out of balance (which is very common),
it needs time—and sometimes support—to stabilise.

That’s why simply switching food is not always enough.

Why Slow Transitions Matter

One of the biggest mistakes is changing food too quickly.

Even the best diet can create stress in the body if introduced suddenly.

A gentle transition allows the body to adapt without overwhelm.

A simple guideline:

Days 1–4: 30% new food, 70% current

Days 5–8: 50% new, 50% current

Days 9–12: 70% new, 30% current

This gives the digestive system time to adjust step by step.

Not Every Reaction Is “Normal”

This is important.

While mild, temporary changes can be part of the process…
strong or ongoing reactions are not something to ignore.

Watch for:

-persistent diarrhoea

-intense itching

-vomiting

-extreme lethargy

These may indicate:
👉 food intolerance
👉 incorrect protein choice
👉 deeper imbalance that needs attention

Every Dog Is Different

There is no one-size-fits-all diet.

Some dogs thrive on certain proteins…
Others react to them.

For example: chicken and beef are common triggers for sensitive dogs

some fish (especially farmed salmon) may cause reactions

certain dogs do better on novel proteins like camel, emu, or rabbit

It’s not about what’s “healthy” in general—It’s about what works for your dog’s body.

How to Support Your Dog Through the Change

To make the transition smoother, you can support your dog with:

✔ gentle gut support (like bone broth or targeted probiotics)
✔ easily digestible meals
✔ simple, clean ingredients
✔ proper hydration (filtered water makes a difference)

And most importantly… patience

Because healing doesn’t happen overnight.

The Bigger Picture

Changing your dog’s diet is not just about food.

It’s about:
– supporting the body
– restoring balance
– giving your dog what they actually need to thrive

Sometimes the journey isn’t perfectly smooth…
But that doesn’t mean you’re going in the wrong direction.

A Gentle Reminder

If your dog is going through changes after a diet switch…

Don’t panic.
Observe.
Support.
Adjust if needed.

And remember—

✨ The goal is not quick fixes.
✨ The goal is long-term health.

Need Guidance?

If you’re unsure whether your dog’s reaction is part of the process…
or a sign that something deeper is going on—

Getting clarity can save you months of guessing.

Because once you understand your dog’s body…

Everything becomes simpler.

The post Switching Your Dog’s Food? What Happens Inside Their Body (And Why It Matters) appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

👉 You’re not alone.

And more importantly — it’s usually not just a surface problem.

Most yeast infections in dogs are a sign that something deeper in the body is out of balance.

Let’s break it down simply.

What is a yeast infection in dogs?

Yeast (usually Malassezia) naturally lives on your dog’s skin. In small amounts, it’s completely normal.

The problem starts when it overgrows.That’s when you see:

-constant itching

-red, inflamed skin

-ear infections

-paw licking or chewing

-strong odour (often described as “corn chips” smell)

What causes yeast overgrowth in dogs?

Yeast doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. It grows when the environment in your dog’s body allows it.

1. Diet (one of the biggest triggers)

Yeast feeds on sugars and starches.

Diets high in: processed kibble, fillers, carbohydrates, can create the perfect environment for yeast to thrive.

2. Gut imbalance (leaky gut)

This is a big one.

When your dog’s gut is not balanced:

-bad bacteria and yeast can overgrow

-the immune system becomes weaker

-inflammation increases
This makes it much harder for the body to control yeast naturally.

3. Medications

Repeated use of: antibiotics, steroids, some medications, can disrupt the natural balance in the body

This often leads to yeast coming back again and again.

4. Weak immune system

If your dog’s immune system is under pressure, it can’t keep yeast in check.

This can be linked to:

-poor nutrition

-stress

-toxins

-long-term inflammation

5. Allergies (but not the whole story)

Allergies are often blamed — and yes, they can play a role.

But here’s the truth:

👉 Allergies don’t cause yeast on their own
👉 They create inflammation → which allows yeast to grow

So if you only treat “allergies”…
the yeast often comes back.

Why yeast infections keep coming back

This is the frustrating part for most dog owners. You treat it: creams, shampoos, medications.

It improves… then returns.

Why?

Because: the root cause hasn’t been addressed

Surface treatments don’t fix:

-gut imbalance

-diet issues

-internal inflammation

How to support your dog properly

Instead of only treating the outside, focus on the inside. This usually includes:

-improving diet (reducing starch + processed foods)

-supporting gut health

-reducing inflammation

-strengthening the immune system

When the body is balanced again: yeast naturally comes back under control.

Yeast infections are not just a skin issue.

They’re a signal from your dog’s body that something deeper needs attention.

And once you understand that — everything changes.

Need help figuring out your dog’s root cause?

If your dog keeps struggling with yeast, itching or recurring infections… you don’t have to keep guessing.

I help dog owners across Australia uncover what’s really going on and create simple, natural plans that work.

Book your Dog Health Review today
and let’s support your dog properly — from the inside out 🤍🐾

The post 🐾 What’s Causing Yeast Infections in Dogs? appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen holding MCT oil in one hand and coconut oil in the other, wondering:

👉 “Which one is actually better for my dog?”

You’re not alone.

This is one of the most common questions I hear from dog owners who genuinely care — and just want to make the right choice without overcomplicating things.

So let’s make it simple. No overwhelm. Just clarity 

What’s the difference between MCT oil and coconut oil for dogs?

Both come from coconuts.
But inside your dog’s body, they work very differently. Understanding this changes everything.

Coconut oil for dogs — gentle, everyday support

Coconut oil is a natural, less processed oil that contains a mix of fats working together.

It’s not intense. It’s not targeted.
👉 It’s steady, nourishing support

Think of it as your dog’s daily wellness base.

You might notice:

• a softer, shinier coat
• less itching or dry skin
• more settled digestion
• overall balance in the body

It works quietly in the background — supporting, not pushing.

👉 Best for: dogs who need ongoing, gentle support

 MCT oil for dogs — fast brain and energy support

MCT oil is more refined and highly targeted.

It contains specific fats that the body quickly converts into instant energy — especially for the brain.

👉 This is where it really stands out.

Instead of slow nourishment, it gives a clean, fast fuel source.

This can help with:

• older dogs showing signs of slowing down
• mental fog, confusion, or staring
• low energy linked to brain function
• cognitive decline (e.g. dog dementia / CDS)

Many dog owners say:
👉 “My dog just seems more present again.”

And that’s exactly the shift we’re aiming for.

👉 Best for: brain health and ageing dogs

🐶 Coconut oil vs MCT oil — which one should you choose?

It depends on what your dog needs right now.

 Choose coconut oil if your dog has:

• dry or dull coat
• itching or sensitive skin
• mild digestive issues
• needs simple daily support

👉 This is your foundation oil — safe, gentle, and easy to use long-term.

 Choose MCT oil if your dog:

• is getting older
• seems confused or less alert
• has behaviour changes
• needs extra brain support

👉 Think of it as a targeted tool — not always necessary, but powerful when needed.

Can you give both MCT oil and coconut oil?

Yes — and this is often the best approach.

You don’t have to choose just one.

Many dogs benefit from:

• MCT oil in the morning → for brain support
• Coconut oil with meals → for overall nourishment

👉 It’s not about doing more.
It’s about using each oil for what it does best.

How much oil should you give your dog?

This part is important.

With oils, more is NOT better.

👉 Always:

• start with a small amount
• introduce slowly
• watch your dog’s response

Too much too quickly can cause digestive upset — and we want this to feel supportive, not stressful.

Final thoughts — what your dog really needs

There is no “perfect” oil.

Only what your dog needs at this moment.

• ⚡ MCT oil supports the mind
• 🥥 Coconut oil supports the body

When you understand the difference, you stop guessing.

You start making calm, confident decisions that actually support your dog’s health.

Because in the end…

👉 it’s not about trends
👉 it’s not about supplements

It’s about helping your dog feel:

• comfortable
• clear
• balanced

In the simplest way possible 

Need help choosing what’s right for YOUR dog?

If you’re still unsure what your dog actually needs — you don’t have to figure it out alone.

I help dog owners get clear, simple, personalised plans that work.

👉 Book your Dog Health Review and let’s support your dog properly — from the root cause, not guesswork

The post MCT Oil vs Coconut Oil for Dogs appeared first on DoGood Pet Nutrition.