What is the gut microbiome?

All animals, including dogs and people, have millions of bacteria in their guts. These ‘friendly’ gut bacteria help your dog to digest food as well as provide natural defences against the invasion of potentially harmful microbes. The bacteria inhabiting the intestines are referred to as the gut microbiome. We are learning more and more about the benefits of a healthy microbiome, but we do know that it has a huge impact on the overall well-being of our dogs.

What are probiotics for dogs?

Probiotics can be used to top up the levels of ‘friendly’ bacteria and improve the gut microbiome. This can be particularly helpful if your dog suffers from a digestive disorder, or their gut flora has been disturbed by medication. Probiotics are live microorganisms often given to dogs as a supplement. They may come in powder, paste or tablet form with bacteria specific to improve the gut health of dogs. However, some high-quality diets have probiotics included in their recipes, which can save owners from having to administer any separate treatments, depending on their dog’s needs.

What are prebiotics for dogs?

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibre sources that can increase the number of specific bacteria populations. As these bacteria metabolise prebiotics, the by-products made can have local anti-inflammatory effects on the gut lining and produce energy for your dog. Dietary fibres can also help improve stool consistency, improve the mucus lining of the digestive tract as well as helping improve the health of cells in the intestines. Simply put, prebiotics help good gut bacteria to grow and multiply. Prebiotics are therefore often given at the same time as probiotics.

Are pre and probiotics good for dogs?

Yes! Pre and probiotics for dogs can be excellent at improving digestive health. They are often used to: Help treat sudden onset, uncomplicated diarrhoea cases Prevent stress-induced diarrhoea Manage chronic gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease) alongside medication and dietary changes Increase levels of gut bacteria following courses of antibiotics Probiotics and prebiotics are considered very safe for dogs. Their proven benefits mean that even healthy dogs could show an improvement in gut health, with decreased flatulence and improved stool consistency.

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How to Make Dog-Friendly Smash Burgers and Sweet Potato Fries

Amy Gossling

December 10, 2024

Treating your dog to a homemade meal can be a fun way to bond while giving them something extra special to enjoy. But when it comes to cooking for dogs, safety and nutrition are key. This dog-friendly smash burger recipe is packed with flavour and made entirely with ingredients that are safe for your furry friend.

At Years.com, we believe in a balanced approach to your dog's diet. While fun recipes like this are a great occasional treat, nothing beats the complete, tailored nutrition of Years.com meals.

Dog-Friendly Smash Burgers: A Recipe Your Pup Will Love Ingredients You'll Need Step-by-Step Instructions The Final Dish A Balanced Approach to Feeding Your Dog

Dog-Friendly Smash Burgers: A Recipe Your Pup Will Love

This recipe for dog-friendly smash burgers and sweet potato fries is designed to be both safe and delicious for your dog. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat, it’s easy to make and uses wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You'll Need

Ingredients:

For the Burger Buns:

1 egg white

For the Fries:

Sweet Potato

For the Smash Burgers:

Beef mince
1 Egg
Years Taste+ Liver and Red Pepper Seasoning
Dog-safe cheese (optional)

@yearsuk Today we’re making smash burgers for my dog 🍔😍 #smashburgers #recipe #goldenretriever #dogfriendly #homemade ♬ original sound - YEARS UK

Step-by-Step Instructions

Instructions:

1. Make the Burger Buns:

Whisk the egg white until it forms a thick, foamy consistency.
Spoon two flat scoops of the mixture onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake at 180°C for about 25 minutes or until golden.

2. Prep the Sweet Potato Fries:

Slice sweet potato into fry-sized pieces.
Bake or air fry until soft and golden. Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of vitamins and fibre for dogs!

3. Smash the Burgers:

Mix beef mince with one egg and a sprinkle of Years Taste+ Liver and Red Pepper Seasoning. This adds a boost of flavour your dog will love.
Roll the mixture into mini balls and smash them flat onto a hot pan.
Cook until browned on both sides, adding a small slice of dog-safe cheese halfway through if desired.

The Final Dish

Assemble:
Assemble your dog-friendly smash burger with the baked egg white buns, melted cheese-topped burger patties, and a side of sweet potato fries. Be sure to let your dog sample along the way—it’s all part of the fun!

A Balanced Approach to Feeding Your Dog

While creative meals like these are a wonderful treat, it’s important to prioritise your dog's everyday nutrition. That’s why Years.com meals are crafted to provide the perfect balance of whole food ingredients tailored to your dog’s breed, size, and age.

With Years.com you can trust that every bite is packed with the nutrients your dog needs to live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Recipes like this smash burger can complement their diet as an occasional indulgence.

Get Inspired and Share Your Creations

Otis, our taste tester for this recipe, couldn’t get enough of his smash burger and fries. If you try this recipe, let us know how your dog enjoys it! Looking for more ideas? Explore the Years blog for advice, tips, and inspiration.

Because when it comes to your dog, only the best will do.

Ready to give your dog the ultimate dining experience? Start with Years.com meals and let every mealtime be a celebration of health and happiness.