Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are common among dogs, causing distress through symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or general digestive discomfort. A well-managed diet plays a pivotal role in alleviating these concerns and aiding in a dog's recovery. 

With this blog, we aim to delve into the meaning of gastrointestinal diets for dogs, offering insights, tips, and crucial information to help you navigate this aspect of your pet's health.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Diets:

Gastrointestinal diets are specially formulated to assist dogs in overcoming digestive disturbances and restoring normal intestinal function. These diets are highly digestible, containing specific ingredients that ease the strain on the digestive system and promote healing.

Types of Gastrointestinal Diets:

There are two primary categories of GI diets for dogs: commercial and homemade. Commercial options are often prescribed by veterinarians and come in various formulations tailored to different digestive issues. Homemade GI diets involve preparing food at home using easily digestible ingredients recommended for canine gastrointestinal health.

Benefits of GI Diets:

GI diets offer several benefits beyond addressing immediate digestive concerns. They are formulated to be easily absorbed by the intestines, aiding in nutrient uptake and promoting a healthy gut environment. Additionally, these diets often include essential nutrients, prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber, which contribute to maintaining overall digestive health.

When to Consider a GI Diet:

If your dog experiences recurrent vomiting, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal problems, it's essential to consider a specialized GI diet. However, always consult with a veterinarian before making significant dietary changes to ensure the appropriateness and effectiveness of the diet for your dog's specific condition.

Implementing a GI Diet:

Implementing a GI diet involves transitioning your dog gradually to the new food to prevent further digestive upset. It's crucial to follow the feeding guidelines provided by your veterinarian or on the commercial GI food packaging. For homemade diets, seek guidance from a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet meets your dog's nutritional requirements.

Monitoring and Seeking Veterinary Advice:

While GI diets can be beneficial, closely monitor your dog's response to the new diet. If symptoms persist, worsen, or if your dog's overall condition deteriorates, consult your vet immediately. Your veterinarian can reassess the situation and recommend further diagnostic tests or adjustments to the diet plan.

Before concluding this article, we would like to talk about what Fidele+ GI diet offers: 

1. This diet is easily digestible with chicken as the primary source of protein. 
2. It is wheat gluten free. 
3. It has limited ingredients which means that it can also help in tackling allergy issues. 
4. It has a very low fat percentage (8%) to minimize fat maldigestion. 
5. Beet pulp is used in this diet as a moderately fermentable source of fibre to maintain bowel movements. 
6. Beet pulp also acts as a prebiotic in this diet. 
7. Yucca extract is used to reduce stool odor and flatulence. 
8. Dried fish is added to supplement with EFAs like Omega 3 & 6. 
9. The calories are controlled in this diet. 

You can check the complete features of this diet out on - Fidele + website or reach out to your veterinarian. 

A gastrointestinal diet is a valuable tool in managing and alleviating digestive issues in dogs. Whether opting for commercial or homemade options, these diets are designed to aid in your dog's recovery and promote digestive health. However, always collaborate with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable approach for your furry companion's specific needs, ensuring they receive the best care and support for their gastrointestinal well-being.