As pet parents, we only want what’s best for our four-legged friends.

Keeping them fit, fast, and strong is what keeps their tails wagging, and us smiling.

Key to a healthy lifestyle is a well-balanced diet brimming with ingredients, packed full of nutrients.

This is the reason why many are now looking at a natural diet for dogs.

How important is a natural diet for a dog to have?

At Applaws, we believe humans and dogs thrive better when eating natural food.

Freshly prepared recipes, minus the artificial additives, offer cleaner nutrition on a taste-filled path to a lengthier life.

High-quality, natural ingredients help ensure dogs grow strong and remain healthy.

One of the biggest benefits of natural recipes is the fact that each ingredient brings multiple nutrients to the bowl.

Chicken and lamb are both protein-rich foods that help build muscle and keep the immune system strong. They also contribute to healthier coats and skin.

Meanwhile, complementary fruits and vegetables contain vital vitamins and minerals that help to lower cholesterol, fight infection and aid digestion.

In fact, the first study on human-grade dog food, conducted by the University of Illinois, found that whole, fresh food was not only highly palatable for dogs, but also highly digestible.

Digestion is a real and common concern for dog owners with many pets suffering from a sensitive tummy at some point in their lifetime.

A complete and well-balanced natural diet for dogs means ingredients of the highest quality, so fewer digestion issues.

At the other end of the spectrum, artificial preservatives, flavorings and colors can lead to a myriad of health issues for pets.

‘We are what we eat.’ Our dogs deserve to eat the best; natural ingredients offer just that.

Important ingredients to have in any diet for your dog

‘How to put my dog on a healthy diet?’ is a question asked by owners the world over.

Incorporating the following ingredients into a dog’s diet, the majority of which can be found in the Applaws Taste Toppers range, will go a long way to ensuring your furry friend is receiving the right nutrients.

● Chicken. High-quality cuts of chicken breast, as found in our Chicken Filet with Rosemary topper, are an excellent source of protein for dogs. An essential nutrient, protein is a main energy source that will help your dog grow strong, and stay strong.

● Lamb. Another source of protein, lamb tends to be a fattier meat than chicken and is ideal for active dogs. Lamb contains essential amino acids and is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Two of these, iron and zinc can promote healthy bodily functions. Lamb paired with zucchini, carrots and chickpeas in gravy is a definite delectable doggy treat.

● Carrots. Carrots are a real nutritious add-in for dog food. A tasty veg treat, they’re low-calorie, low-fat making them perfect for dog owners wary of their best friend’s weight. Added fiber can aid digestion while the beta-carotene found in carrots helps animals maintain good vision.

● Turmeric. The human ‘superfood’ is finding its way into more dog foods these days, and with good reason. Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. As a spice it adds a touch of flavour to food as well, like in this Chicken Bone Broth with Turmeric Parsley pouch

● Pumpkin. Easily digestible and delicious, pumpkin contains vitamins A, C and E which help eyesight, the immune system and inflammation. High in fiber too, it goes lovely with chicken breast and white beans, too.

● Sweet potato. High in carbs, sweet potatoes are a great energy source, promote healthy bowel movements and contain essential vitamins like A, C, and B6.

● Apple. Apples are an excellent source of Vitamin A and C, as well as dietary fiber. Mixed in with mealtime taste toppers, as it is here in our Chicken Breast Broth Pouch, apples not only add extra flavour, but also contribute to fresher breath.