At Awoo, we've teamed up with Pet Releaf to educate on the importance of a meal and supplement routine using sustainably-made products. Awoo customers can save 20% on Pet Releaf’s sustainably-made, plant-based supplements using the code AWOO20.

Mealtimes can be the perfect opportunity to enhance your dog’s well-being while also strengthening your bond with them. By making a few minor adjustments to their eating routine, you can improve their digestion, mobility, and overall health. Simply start with these three easy changes:

1. Implement a Regular Feeding Routine

Consistency is key to your dog’s health and digestive efficiency. Dogs are creatures of habit and benefit greatly from a regular feeding schedule. Feeding your dog at the same times each day helps regulate their internal clock, ensuring smooth digestion and a stable metabolism.

After exercise, allow your dog a 30-minute cool-down period before mealtime. This break helps prevent digestive discomfort and reduces the risk of bloat, a serious condition that can occur if a dog eats too soon after physical activity. By creating a structured feeding routine, you not only support better digestion but also provide your dog with a sense of security and stability.

Regular mealtimes also prevent irregular feeding patterns that could lead to weight fluctuations or metabolic issues. Establishing a consistent schedule contributes to both physical health and emotional well-being by minimizing mealtime stress and uncertainty.

2. Utilize Engaging Feeding Tools

Make mealtimes both enjoyable and beneficial with interactive feeding tools. If your dog tends to gobble their food too quickly, consider using a slow feeder bowl or a lick mat. These tools can transform mealtime into a stimulating experience while promoting a slower, more mindful eating pace.

A slow feeder bowl’s built-in obstacles encourage your dog to eat at a slower pace, helping to prevent overeating and digestive problems. A lick mat, on the other hand, spreads their food across a textured surface, making the meal more engaging and enjoyable.

The advantages of using these tools include:

• Enhanced Digestion: Around one-third of dogs experience gastrointestinal issues that affect their digestion and bowel movements. By slowing down their eating pace, your dog’s digestive system can function more effectively, improving the breakdown and absorption of nutrients and minimizing digestive discomfort.
• Less Bloating and Gas: Bloating can be particularly prevalent in dogs with deep chests. Rapid eating often leads to swallowing excess air, which can cause bloating and gas. Slowing down mealtimes helps your dog ingest less air, reducing the risk of these issues and supporting a healthier digestive system overall.
• Mental Engagement: Interactive feeding methods engage your dog’s mind and add an element of fun to mealtimes. These tools not only nourish your dog physically but also provide mental stimulation, keeping them entertained and preventing boredom while they eat.

3. Introduce Quality Supplements to Their Diet

Adding high-quality supplements into your dog's meals can significantly enhance their health. While a balanced diet is essential, supplements help bridge nutritional gaps and address specific health needs. As dogs age, their ability to absorb nutrients may decrease, making supplements even more beneficial.

Supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids for instance, are excellent for supporting joint health, skin and coat condition, and cognitive function. Fish-Free Omega 3s can be easily added to your dog’s diet, whether mixed into a slow feeder bowl or spread on a lick mat, offering targeted benefits that enhance your pet’s overall well-being.

Improving your dog's feeding routine can benefit various aspects of their life. Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, enriching mealtime experiences, and incorporating high-quality supplements can keep their minds active, their stomachs balanced, and promote long-term vitality.

Shop and save 20% on Pet Releaf’s sustainably-made, plant-based supplements using the code AWOO20.