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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Why Carrots Are the Crunchy, Natural Dental Chew Your Dog Will Love

Amy Gossling

January 9, 2025

When it comes to keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, there’s an abundance of products on the market. But what if the perfect dental chew was hiding in your vegetable drawer all along? Carrots offer a natural, cost-effective, and nutritious way to care for your dog’s teeth while delivering a satisfying crunch they’ll adore.

The Natural Power of Carrots

Carrots are more than just a tasty snack—they’re a wholesome alternative to traditional dental chews. Here’s why they’re a brilliant choice for your pup:

No Nasties: Unlike many commercial dental chews, carrots contain no additives, artificial colours, flavourings, or preservatives. They’re as natural as it gets.
Plaque-Busting Texture: Their satisfying crunch works to scrape away plaque and promote healthy teeth and gums.
Affordable and Accessible: At just 69p for a single carrot or £1 for a bag, carrots are a budget-friendly solution you can find in most supermarkets.

A Balanced Diet Is Key

While carrots are a great addition to your dog’s dental care routine, it’s essential to ensure their overall diet is nutritionally complete.

A dog’s health and happiness start with what they eat, and that’s where Years comes in.

At Years, we create breed-specific fresh dog food made from whole food ingredients to give your dog the nutrition they deserve.

Our recipes are expertly crafted to support every stage of your dog’s life, helping them to live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

@yearsuk Don't waste your money on overpriced chews #dogmom #dogsoftiktok #dogfood #dogrecipes #dogtreats #dognutrition #homemadedogtreats #dogmum ♬ original sound - YEARS UK

How to Add Carrots to Your Dog’s Routine

Incorporating carrots into your dog’s diet is simple:

As a Snack: Serve raw carrot sticks as a crunchy treat.

As a Training Reward: Cut carrots into bite-sized pieces for positive reinforcement during training sessions.

Frozen Treats: Freeze carrots for a cooling chew that soothes teething puppies or keeps older dogs entertained.

Remember, moderation is key. While carrots are packed with fibre and vitamins, they should complement a balanced diet—not replace it.

Why Choose Years for Your Dog’s Diet?

Carrots are a fantastic treat, but your dog’s main meals should deliver complete nutrition tailored to their needs. With Years, you can trust that every bite supports your dog’s wellbeing. From premium proteins to the addition of Years Taste+ Seasoning for picky eaters, we’ve thought of everything to make mealtimes both nutritious and irresistible.

Carrots are a simple, affordable way to support your dog’s dental health naturally. But for optimal health, a complete, tailored diet is vital. With Years, you can rest assured that your dog is enjoying food designed to help them thrive.

Ready to give your dog the best life possible? Explore our range of fresh dog food today and see the difference Years can make.

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