How to Add Fiber to a Dog’s Diet

Just as it is with humans, fiber is an important part of a dog’s diet. It has a multitude of benefits, including digestive regularity, gut health, improved anal gland function, and more. Adding it to your dog’s diet can be as simple as choosing the right foods and, when those fall short, the right dog supplements. So, join us today as we take a deep dive into fiber for dogs!

What Is Fiber and What Are Its Benefits for Dogs?

Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate. It includes the parts of plant foods that your dog’s (or anyone’s) body can't absorb or digest. Instead, these pass relatively intact through the digestive system. One might think that the body wouldn’t get much from such a food, but fiber actually has a number of benefits:

• Improved stool consistency

• Better digestive regularity

• Support for gut bacteria and microbiome health

• Help with constipation or loose stool

• Assistance with anal gland function

• Support for weight management and feelings of fullness

Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber

There are two main types of fiber. Soluble fiber is the type that dissolves in water, forming a gel-like material in the stomach that slows down digestion and helps to lower cholesterol and blood sugar. Insoluble fiber is the type that does not dissolve in water. This type of fiber supports the movement of material through the digestive system and adds bulk to your dog’s stool, which is particularly helpful if your dog gets constipated or has regular diarrhea.

What Foods for Dogs Are High in Fiber? 

There are plenty of high-fiber foods that are safe for dogs. Here’s a partial list of common whole-food fiber sources commonly recommended by vets. Each of these specific high-fiber foods is listed with a note letting you know which are soluble and which are insoluble:

As with any new food, make sure to introduce a new fiber source to your dog gradually in order to avoid unnecessary digestive issues.

What Can I Give My Dog as a Supplement for Fiber?

While a healthy dog diet contains a plentiful supply of fiber, traditional dog food or kibble doesn’t always meet those needs. Yes, there are specially formulated dog foods for enhanced dog fiber, but many pet owners also turn to fiber supplements to give their dog consistent support. These types of supplements can help support stool quality, healthy gut, and anal gland function.

Some of the more common supplements include:

• Psyllium husk

• Inulin

• Digestive fiber blends formulated for dogs

• Beet pulp

• Dog-specific powder or chewable fiber supplements

Happy Paws has two treats designed for dog digestive health, each containing plentiful fiber sources: 

Our Digestive and Gut Health Dog Supplement is formulated to provide natural support for gut health, detoxification, and immune support. These pet chews contain pumpkin meal, oat flour, flaxseed meal, carrot, apple, and beets, as well as P-6 probiotics, a healthy enzyme blend, and ginger root.

Our Probiotic Dog Supplement provides natural support for gut and bowel health. These pet chews contain sweet potato, pumpkin seed meal, fennel, oat flour, flaxseed meal, carrot, apple, and beets, plus P-6 probiotics, Kona berry, sea kelp, and more. 

Both treats make a healthy addition to any dog nutrition plan. Consult your veterinarian to see which supplement would work best for your pet.

How Do I Add Fiber to My Dog’s Food?

Dog owners can safely add fiber to their dog’s meals. Just remember that fiber should always be introduced slowly to avoid gas or discomfort. You can do this by:

• Gradually mixing small amounts of high-fiber foods into meals

• Adding measured doses of fiber supplements

• Making sure your dog has plenty of water when fiber is added

And always remember that consistent daily amounts work best for digestive balance.

FAQs

1. How Do I Know if My Dog Needs More Fiber?

There are multiple signs that could indicate that your dog needs more fiber. These can include regular constipation or diarrhea, excessive gas, weight gain, anal gland issues, poor skin or coat, lack of energy, frequent vomiting, and more. If your dog shows any of these signs, make sure to consult your veterinarian right away.

2. Can Adding Fiber Help With My Dog's Anal Gland Problems?

Yes! Fiber is an effective way to help with anal gland problems in pets. Just make sure to consult your veterinarian before you start an anal gland treatment plan.

3. Is Too Much Fiber Harmful for Dogs?

Yes, too much fiber can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. Before you start a fiber care plan for your dog, consult your veterinarian so you can optimize their intake.

4. Can Puppies Have Added Fiber in Their Diet?

Yes, puppies can have added fiber in their diet. Just take care to do it in moderation and consult your veterinarian to help optimize your plan.