However, there a few dangers to be aware of to ensure your working dog stays happy and healthy over Easter and throughout spring.
Here are Autarky’s Easter watch outs.
Easter Eggs. Did you know that chocolate is toxic for dogs to eat? Chocolate contains several substances called methylxanthine, caffeine and theobromine. Dogs and cats struggle to metabolise these (break down) if they digest them.
Theobromine is present in all forms of chocolate, but there are various levels in white, milk and dark chocolate bars. The darker the chocolate the more dangerous it is!
100-150mg of theobromine per kg of bodyweight is toxic to dogs.
For example, if you have a Labrador weighing 30kg, as little as 3000mg of theobromine could be fatal. Shockingly there is 3000mg of theobromine in one 500g bar of dark chocolate! Imagine if a smaller dog consumed this amount.
Even though the toxicity levels differ if your pet ingests any form of chocolate, the elevated levels of fat and sugar can also be factors in causing a reaction, so it’s crucial to visit your vet as soon as possible.
How do I know if my dog is suffering from theobromine poisoning?
If your dog is suffering from chocolate poisoning, symptoms usually appear within 2-12 hours. Symptoms include:
In the worse cases this can prove fatal.
If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, seek help from your vet immediately. If you have the packaging from the chocolate eaten, always take this with you.
Hot Cross Buns are synonymous with Easter and you may be tempted to share some with you working dog.
Unfortunately, most hot cross buns contain raisins, currants and sultanas. While all forms of grapes are bad for dogs, it’s thought the dried versions of the fruits are more likely to cause severe symptoms if eaten by your dog. It’s not known which substance or chemicals in grapes causes poisoning in dogs, but even a very small number of grapes, raisins, sultanas or currants can be toxic. Extra caution should be taken with foods containing raisins, currants (dried fruit of dark grapes) and sultanas (dried fruit of white grapes). These are highly toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure or even death.
Daffodils are poisonous to dogs, especially the bulb, and contains a toxin called lycorine. Ingestion of the bulb, plant or flower can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and even possible cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Daffodil ingestions can result in more severe symptoms if left untreated.
Tulips & Hyacinths belong to the Liliaceae family. The toxic part of these plants is very concentrated in the bulbs (versus the leaf or flower). Severe poisoning is often seen when dogs dig up the plants and eat a large quantity of bulbs. When the plant parts or bulbs are chewed or ingested, it can result in tissue irritation to the mouth and oesophagus. Typical signs include profuse drooling, vomiting, or even diarrhoea, depending on the amount consumed. With large ingestions, more severe symptoms such as an increase in heart rate, changes in respiration, and difficulty breathing may be seen.
Bluebells. All parts of the bluebell plant contain toxic glycosides that are poisonous to humans and dogs. If any part of the plant is eaten, it can cause serious stomach upsets, and if consumed in copious quantities, may be fatal.
Crocuses. Spring crocus plants are part of the Iridaceae family. If ingested, they can cause general gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea.
If you suspect your dog has consumed something poisonous, contact your Vet immediately and where possible, take a sample or a photograph with you of what you think your dog has eaten. Never try and make your dog vomit as you may do more harm than good.
Further information on poisons can be found here: Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS).
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Puppies need higher levels of protein and fat to support their rapid growth phase, combined with calcium and phosphorus in the correct amounts to support optimum bone development.
Feeding them a specially designed puppy recipe also supports their developing immune, digestive and neural systems.
Autarky Puppy/Junior provides high-quality protein and a balanced supply of moderate energy levels to encourage steady growth. Vitamin E, omega fatty acids are included to help support neural development and learning, whilst antioxidants, prebiotics and added herbs help support a young working dog’s developing immune system and promotes digestive health.
WHEN DO I MOVE MY YOUNG DOG ONTO ADULT FOOD?
Many make the mistake of moving onto an adult food too soon, especially with larger breeds.
The larger the breed, the longer it takes for them to mature physically. They may look fully matured on the outside but it’s their skeletal maturity that is important. Skeletal maturity refers to the measure of growth plate development.
What are growth plates and why is correct nutrition important?
When a puppy is born, each bone has soft ends and as the puppy grows these soft ends extend. These are called growth plates, or epiphyseal plate. As your puppy reaches maturity, these growth plates close and mineralize into bone.
Here at Autarky, we advise that you follow the guidelines on when to transition on to adult recipes. This will not only aid healthy growth and development but ensure that your dog has all the essential nutrients throughout the period of skeletal maturity.
Adult Weight (kg) |
Small (5-10kg) |
Medium (10-25kg) |
Large (25-45kg) |
Very Large (>45kg) |
Age to move to adult (months |
8 - 10 |
10 -12 |
12 -18 |
18 - 24 |
Switching to Autarky Adult recipes
Whether your dog is working all day or is less active, feeding your adult dog good quality nutrition is just as important to ensure they are happy and healthy as it is for puppies.
Autarky offers active working dogs a complete balanced diet that will ensure they have everything they need to keep them fit and healthy.
The range consists of hypoallergenic recipes, along with grain-free options, which have been developed to exclude wheat-gluten, soya and artificial colours, flavours & preservatives.
When switching to adult dog food you should allow 7-10 days for the transition. Gradually add more adult dog food and less of their puppy food to your pup’s dish each day until the change is complete. This gradual transition will help avoid dietary upsets.
Remember individual needs can vary. Always feed your dog to maintain an ideal body condition.
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Health & Nutrition
Footcare
Cold weather can pose a challenge for a working dog’s sensitive paws. Salt and grit from the roads and tracks can get lodged between their toes and cause discomfort or even burns. Dog’s will often lick their feet to try and remove it, which in turn can cause damage to their mouth and digestive system. Always wash their feet when you return home to avoid this.
On a snowy day, be particularly careful with long-haired dogs to check for compacted snow between their toes. Trimming the hair between their toes (or asking a groomer to do it) can prevent them from clogging up with ice and dirt. Specially designed protective paw balms are also available, which help keep your dog’s pads healthy. Some working dogs’ benefit from wearing specially designed boots to protect the foot.
Keep your dog hydrated
Dogs can dehydrate just as quickly in winter as summer. Always make sure they have access to fresh, clean and unfrozen water at all times.
Feeding
Special attention should be made regarding the quantity of food you are giving your dog.
If your dog lives or works outside for extended periods of time, look at increasing their calorie intake to support them.
The reverse is applicable if your dog’s activity level decreases over the winter months.
Autarky provides different recipes to cater for this. Please contact us if you require further information on the best Autarky recipe to feed your dog.
Hypothermia
This is especially relevant if your dog lives in kennels or works/exercises outdoors for extended periods of time. Hypothermia occurs when a dog spends too much time in the cold, gets wet in cold temperatures or when dogs with poor health or circulation are exposed to cold. Signs of hypothermia are as follows;
Severe hypothermia is life threatening. Always contact your vet if you think your dog may be suffering from hypothermia
To help prevent hypothermia;
Hidden Toxins
Antifreeze
Anti-freeze is a danger at this time of year as it’s a very toxic substance which can drip from a vehicle’s radiator, where it can be licked off the ground by your dog. The same applies to de-icer. Antifreeze is attractive to dogs, and some will readily lick or drink it. Just a small amount can prove fatal. Keep your dog out of the garage and off the driveway where they may encounter antifreeze or other harmful chemicals. Also do not allow them to drink from puddles, as antifreeze and other chemicals may have drained into them. If you suspect that your dog has consumed anti-freeze or de-icer, always contact your vet.
Rat & Mouse Poison
During the colder months, rodents look to keep warm. This can sometimes mean that they move into human spaces. Unfortunately, people often use commercial poisons to eliminate them. Mouse and rat poisons are designed to be attractive to rodents, but they often smell and taste good to your dogs too. There is also a risk your dog can pick up a poisoned rodent. These poisons are fatal to dogs so must be kept out of reach of them.
What to do if you think your dog has eaten something poisonous.
Other Risks To Be Aware Of
Alabama Rot
Alabama Rot is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease that affects dogs. It’s still unknown what causes Alabama Rot, but it’s believed to be related to walking in muddy and wet conditions. Alabama Rot causes problems with blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, and often first appears as unexplained marks, sores or ulcers, on dogs’ legs or paws. To prevent your dog from getting ill, experts recommend that you either keep dogs away from muddy areas or wash and dry them thoroughly after muddy or wet walks.
Frozen Water
Frozen lakes and rivers are a worry when the temperature drops below zero, so always keep your dog on-lead if you’re walking in a new area where the landscape is unknown to you or when exercising near a lake, river, pond or stream. If they do fall in, do not attempt to rescue them as you will be at risk also. Telephone 999 immediately to request help. It is useful to know exactly where you are so they can reach you quickly. The app, what3words, will give you an exact location that you can share with the emergency services.
Ticks
These blood-sucking mites are more commonly found during the spring and autumn but can feed on dogs at any time of the year. Ticks can pick up diseases from one host and pass them onto another. One of which is Lyme disease, which can also affect humans.
After exercise in countryside, always check your dog for any strange lumps or bumps that could be a tick, particularly around their head, groin, armpits and feet.
These can be removed by a tick remover but be careful to remove the whole tick as you can easily leave the mouthparts behind which can infect the site. You can also purchase special tick-removing solutions. Do not use any solvents that may burn the skin.
Dark nights
As the evenings become darker earlier, it’s a good idea to help make you and your dog more visible. L.E.D lights and collars will help yourself and others see them at a distance, especially in the countryside where there is no artificial lighting. Make sure that your dog’s microchip details are up to date and that they’re wearing identification tags in case they get lost after dark.
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Every single cell in a dog’s body requires nutrition for its creation and survival. The digestive system essentially is designed to extract the nutrients from food, deliver them to where they are needed and remove any waste.
WHAT IS THE MICROBIOME?
The gut microbiome is like an eco-system in your dog’s tummy, made up of bacteria, microorganisms and viruses that all live in the gastrointestinal tract. They all work symbiotically together to create the best environment for nutrient absorption.
For example, bacteria in the gut produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) that nourish the intestinal wall, while the intestinal wall produces mucus that feeds beneficial bacteria.
A healthy gut microbiome helps with metabolic functions, protects against pathogens (bad bacteria & microorganisms) and supports the immune system, ensuring overall health and vitality.
What helps the microbiome to be healthy?
Like any eco-system, by including ingredients that provide nutrients that thrive in the gut and help support the environment, the microbiome will flourish.
These ingredients include dietary fibre, prebiotics and probiotics.
WHAT IS DIETARY FIBRE?
Fibre comes in two types, insoluble and soluble. Fibre is beneficial for the transit of food through the digestive system.
Insoluble fibre acts as a bulk within the digestive system regulating the transit of food. The transit needs to be slow enough to allow for the absorption of nutrients but not so slow to cause constipation. It also adds bulk and moisture to stools which benefits the colon.
Soluble fibre, such as fructoligosaccharides (FOS) and mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) can improve the health of the digestive tract by providing food for beneficial (friendly) bacteria. However, not all fermentable fibres have a prebiotic effect.
Our Autarky recipes include beet pulp and vegetables which along with many other great benefits, provide excellent sources of fibre.
WHAT ARE PREBIOTICS & PROBIOTICS?
Prebiotics feed the beneficial (friendly) bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics are the friendly bacteria in the dog’s gut. Adding them into your dog’s diet ‘tops up’ the existing friendly bacteria. By rapidly growing the number of friendly bacteria, probiotics can populate the microbiome and push out the bad bacteria.
WHAT ARE POSTBIOTICS?
They are “inactivated probiotics” non-viable cells or cell fractions which may produce a positive effect when consumed if administered in sufficient amounts. How are they inactivated? Usually but not always by heat treatment.
Studies have suggested that probiotics may exert health benefits even when they are dormant - the “probiotic paradox.” This is likely to be explained by the release of bioactive compounds when the cells dissolve in the gut.
How do they improve gut health?
Compounds of the cell walls of the postbiotics might boost the immune system.
By adhering to the surface of the gut wall the postbiotic cells help to reduce pathogens in the gut
Bioactive compounds associated with the postbiotic cells may play a part in reducing inflammation.
The Benefits
Postbiotic provide a consistent, concentrated source of beneficial bioactive compounds proven to improve the dog’s digestive system which in turn supports immunity, vitality, and overall wellbeing.
Autarky Grain Free Adult – now with postbiotic!
Our grain free recipes have not changed apart from the addition of postbiotic. We still include prebiotic and dietary fibre to help create a healthy digestive system however, by adding postbiotic directly into our recipes, we are giving the dog’s microbiome an extra boost.
https://www.autarkyfoods.com/collections/grain_free/grain_free
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A HEALTHY MICROBIOME?
Having a healthy microbiome means that your dog’s digestive system can absorb nutrients easily which in turn allows them to be used by the parts of their body that require them which will promote overall health and vitality.
The Role of the Canine Gut Microbiome and Metabolome in Health and Gastrointestinal Disease: Rachel Pilla* and Jan S. Suchodolski
]]>Here is the Autarky guide to help you know what to look out for.
]]>Autumn is the season of shorter days, muddy walks and the chill of winter just around the corner. It also brings certain risks to our dogs.
Here is the Autarky guide to help you know what to look out for.
Conkers
Most dogs avoid conkers as they are bitter tasting but if eaten, they can be dangerous. Not only are they a choking hazard but they contain a toxin called Aesculin. This toxin can cause upset stomachs and in rare cases can prove fatal.
Acorns
Acorns contain a toxin called Tannic acid which can cause upset stomachs and if eaten regularly, or in high amounts, the toxin can lead to kidney & liver failure. Green ones are more toxic than brown ones. Eating acorns can also lead to choking and gastrointestinal blockages.
Fungi
The damp ground that Autumn brings is the perfect environment for a variety of toadstools and fungi to grow. Although some types of wild fungi are edible, it is difficult to distinguish these from toxic varieties. Some types may only cause a mild stomach upset, while others can be deadly.
Fallen Fruits
Some seeds, pips and fruit stones contain toxins that can make your dog ill. Rotten fruit can also cause gastrointestinal issues.
Spring Bulbs
If you are planting spring flowering bulbs in the autumn, keep the bulbs away from your dog. Daffodil, tulip and spring crocus bulbs can all be toxic and are usually the most poisonous part of the plant.
Rat & Mouse Poison
During the colder months, rodents look to keep warm. This can sometimes mean that they move into human spaces. Unfortunately, people often use commercial poisons to eliminate them. Mouse and rat poisons are designed to be attractive to rodents, but they often smell and taste good to your dogs too. There is also a risk your dog can pick up a poisoned rodent. These poisons are fatal to dogs so must be kept out of reach of them.
What to do if you think your dog has eaten something poisonous.
Alabama Rot is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease that affects dogs. It’s still unknown what causes Alabama Rot, but it’s believed to be related to walking in muddy and wet conditions. Alabama Rot causes problems with blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, and often first appears as unexplained marks, sores or ulcers, on dogs’ legs or paws. To prevent your dog from getting ill, experts recommend that you either keep dogs away from muddy areas or wash and dry them thoroughly after muddy or wet walks.
The cause of SCI is currently unknown. There are many theories about the cause of SCI, from allergic reactions to mushrooms, algae, agricultural chemicals and infection from harvest mites. The mushroom theory has now been discounted, however there are still concerns over harvest mites as some of the dogs that have contracted SCI have been infested with them.
Signs usually appear in dogs following a walk in a wooded area. The signs are non-specific so the condition may be missed. If your dog is vomiting or lethargic after recently being exercised in woodland, then contact your vet immediately. Symptoms to look out for include:
If you have recently walked your dog in woodland and they have any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
These blood-sucking mites are more commonly found during the spring and autumn but can feed on dogs at any time of the year. Ticks can pick up diseases from one host and pass them onto another. One of which is Lyme disease, which can also affect humans.
After walks in the park or countryside, always check your dog for any strange lumps or bumps that could be a tick, particularly around their head, groin, armpits and feet.
These can be removed by a tick remover but be careful to remove the whole tick as you can easily leave the mouthparts behind which can infect the site. You can also purchase specialised tick-removing solutions. Do not use any solvents that may burn the skin.
As the evenings become darker earlier, it’s a good idea to help make you and your dog more visible. Make sure that your dog’s microchip details are up to date and that they’re wearing I.D tags in case they get lost after dark.
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Dogs have much better hearing than us so loud bangs can be deafening to them!
Here are some tips for helping them cope.
]]>80% of owners notice a change in their dog's behaviour during the firework season and nearly half of those say they are scared of them.
Dogs have much better hearing than us so loud bangs can be deafening to them!
Here are some tips for helping them cope.
If you find that your dog is really struggling, then speak with your vet who can give you further options such as a referral to a behavioural therapist who could help with desensitization, or calming remedies.
Spent fireworks and sparklers
Old or spent fireworks contain dangerous chemicals that can be harmful to your dog. The chemicals used in fireworks can cause a range of effects that often start with gastrointestinal problems. More serious effects can include fitting, breathing problems and problems with their kidneys or liver. If there have been fireworks in your area, always check your garden for spent parts of fireworks on the morning after.
Glow sticks and luminous bracelets
The liquid inside these glowing items is an irritant and, if eaten, can cause your dog to dribble or froth at the mouth, give them a stomach ache or could make them sick. Strangely enough, these items are particularly attractive to cats, so make sure to keep them away from any feline friends as well.
]]>What Autarky feed is Oakley’s favourite?
“As Oakley is eight years old now we now opt for Autarky Mature-Lite Succulent Salmon.”
Why did you choose Autarky?
“Even as an older dog, Oakley is super high in energy and an active boy so I needed a feed that would be able to match that. Autarky is the perfect fit for us.”
Since feeding Oakley Autarky, what benefits have you noticed?
“He’s maintained his weight. Before switching, we often struggled to keep the weight on him. We’ve also noticed his coat is a lot shiner and his energy levels are always up.”
Do you use Autarky in any way other than a normal meal?
“Apart from his daily meals, we use it for trick training, as treats when out walking and with Oakley’s enrichment games, such as lickimats, snuffle mats and treat rollers.”
What image best describes Oakley’s reaction when he sees his Autarky dinner?
“Whenever Oakley hears the Autarky bag rustle, his eyes literally double in size and he has a huge smile on his face.”
]]>Which Autarky feed is Belle’s favourite?
“It would have to be Autarky Succulent Salmon.”
Why did you choose Autarky?
“With Belle being an active dog, often doing hiking and agility, I needed her to be on the best diet. I did some research into the ingredients in dog food and found that Autarky had one of the highest qualities. Belle has been a fussy eater from a puppy, and we tried pretty much every brand/type of food. However, thankfully, Belle has stuck with Autarky for over a year now.”
Since feeding Belle Autarky, what benefits have you noticed?
“Belle’s coat has become shiner, softer and fluffier. She was also on the skinny side before we switched to Autarky and her weight has improved since.”
Do you use Autarky in any way other than a normal meal?
“I often use it when doing tricks and obedience training with Belle.”
What image best describes Belle’s reaction when she sees her Autarky dinner?
“A happy food dance! Belle now looks forward to her meals and actually finishes them.”
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What Autarky feed if Harry’s favourite?
“Harry would always go for the Adult Delicious Chicken; he absolutely loves it.”
Why did you choose Autarky?
“Harry tried a sample of the puppy food when he was younger and loved it right away. He seemed to take to it really well. It has a good nutritional rating and Harry’s coat has never been shinier since. He’s always excited for his dinner, which is great as I know a lot of dogs can go off the chose food, but Harry never has!”
Since feeding Harry Autarky, what benefits have you noticed?
“Harry’s coat is the shiniest it’s EVER been. He gets so many compliments on it and also about his shape. He’s a slender and muscly dog, and I genuinely think we have Autarky to thank for keeping him in that shape, especially as chocolate Labs can be known to carry weight. He also has so much energy.”
Do you use Autarky in any way other than a normal meal?
“We use Autarky in canine enrichment games, inside Kongs and the famous B&M snake. We also scatter it in the garden and use it as training treats on walks mixed with salmon pate.”
What image best describes Harry’s reaction when he see’s his Autarky dinner?
“EXCITED! Instant drool and doing every trick he knows, in anticipation of being asked before his dinner.”
]]>Stomach sensitivities can manifest in so many different ways and it is important to monitor your dog’s eating and toileting habits to know what is normal and when a problem may be arising. The typical change in stool consistency or colour can indicate a change in gastric health, this may develop over time or when a diet is changed. Of course, small day to day changes are quite normal considering the bacteria and microorganisms that dogs pick up on a daily basis. It is important to note that stomach sensitivities and intolerances can also manifest as skin conditions.
Protein Source
Let’s begin with protein source, most dog foods will have meat or meat products listed as their primary protein source, a key source of amino acids- the building blocks of musculoskeletal and visceral development. Dogs can be intolerant to one or more protein sources, for example poultry or fish. The problem begins when incomplete digestion of the protein source occurs, the body’s immune system sends white blood cells called enterocytes to attack the foreign protein, from here symptoms such as obsessive licking, skin irritation, diarrhea and excess gas are common. Owners can begin an elimination diet which although can take time, can help to differentiate which proteins a dog can and cannot tolerate and in what quantities, for or example a dog may tolerate the addition of chicken fat as a source of omega-6 but not tolerate it as the main source of protein. If they cannot tolerate chicken at all it would be a good choice to ensure that protein is not present in any form- in this case a natural choice would be Autarky White Fish. Autarky adult diets are available in either salmon or chicken with the same protein sources available in our mature diets- to allow for continuity when your dog ages or perhaps needs a lower calorie option whilst allowing them to remain settled on the same protein source.
Carbohydrates
Next are carbohydrates, they are broken down by enzymes in to glucose and can be utilised by most of the body’s cells. The most common forms of grains used in dog food are barley, rice, oats and wheat and it is important these are ground or cooked in order for them to be efficiently digested and thus utilised as an energy source. They are a main source of energy for the brain, nervous system and red blood cells. Much like with protein source, the dog’s immune system recognises the carbohydrate source as a foreign body and attacks, often producing an allergic reaction.
Carbohydrates are also a source of fibre, although not a required nutrient it helps the dog feel fuller for longer and is a common ingredient in weight management diets. As well as our adult diets we have two further diets that are completely grain free, catering for those dogs who are intolerant to or cope better with an alternative source such as potato- this is still an excellent source of carbohydrate for optimum energy levels in your active dogs.
The whole Autarky range is hypoallergenic as well as being free of artificial colours, additives and preservatives with only natural antioxidants, although added in small quantities, artificial additives can be responsible for gastric sensitivity and be hard to differentiate as a problem in a dog’s diet.
It is important to note that whilst our nutrition and formulation team have worked hard to produce diets to suit several different types of sensitivity and dietary preference, our formulations will not suit all dogs, especially those with certain gastric conditions, intolerances and allergies which means that it is always important to seek the advice of your veterinarian so that they can further manage your dog’s condition. This article is really only the metaphoric tip of the iceberg when it comes to sensitive stomachs but hopefully this gives you an initial insight in to the complexed topic.
For more information on our range, see our Nutrition page for our most commonly asked questions!
Written by: Georgie White MSci, MNAVP, MAHPR, EEBW
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Protein
An ingredient that is a source of quality, digestible protein is often listed high up the ingredients list, and with good reason; dogs have evolved to consume relatively high proportions of meat and fish and they can easily utilize the nutrients that meat contains. Proteins are molecules made up of amino acids which can be likened to building blocks for cell growth, repair and thus development. There are several different amino acids, some of which the body can source itself and others which must be obtained from the diet. Protein requirement is highest after weaning and steadily decreases from there. The body is constantly repairing cells throughout the animal’s life, but especially so during the first year of life when continual growth is occurring. Notably a high quality, rather than a high percentage protein diet is crucial because this will provide the variety of amino acids required. Quality and digestibility go hand-in-hand, as protein supports growth and repair, it is easy to see the importance of quality protein in a puppy or young dog’s diet. Autarky Puppy/Junior contains 28% protein, our labels contain the words ‘meal’ after the named protein, meal refers to a highly concentrated source of protein and fats, with low water content meaning nutritional requirements are met in lower quantities than freshly prepared meat sources which are included in our Tasty White Fish & Potato and Tantalising Turkey & Potato formulations.
Fat
Fats are essential in providing a source of energy as well as a healthy coat and skin. Fish oils are excellent sources of ‘healthy fat’, with minimal processing involved. Certain fats, namely essential fatty acids, commonly known as Omega 3 and 6 must be obtained by diet and are formulated in to all Autarky diets. These have an important function of controlling inflammation, blood clotting and brain development; a diet deficient in these can lead to various health problems. The right balance and source of Omega 3 in particular be supportive to dogs who suffer from degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis- we have paid special attention to this inclusion in our mature diets. The addition of a small amount of animal fat can also make the diet more palatable as well as calorie-dense, ideal for weight gain and maintenance in young dogs. A working example of dietary change: your dog is currently fed Adult: Delicious Chicken but have been gaining weight recently- instead of reducing the amount significantly you could feed Mature Lite: Delicious Chicken - a diet designed to maintain satiety in dogs who are prone to gaining weight as it has a lower fat inclusion and digestible energy which both contribute to excess weight gain.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are included in dog foods mainly as a source of energy, they often include wheat, rice or grains; Autarky diets are all wheat-gluten free and our Tantalising Turkey & Potato and Tasty White Fish & Potato diets are completely grain free, replaced with potato. Energy content of a diet is a hotly debated topic, protein and fats are a dog’s primary energy sources, however domesticated dogs have evolved to also process carbohydrates as energy to. The dog produces enzymes that digest carbohydrates, however sources such as grains are more digestible when cooked such as in dry pet foods. No specific amount of digestible carbohydrates has been identified as supporting optimal growth, however Autarky Puppy/Junior has a carbohydrate inclusion of 36% and our adult diets around 38%. An important note on energy requirements is the classification of activity levels, a dog completing 1-3 hours of on-lead low impact exercise is only considered to have moderate energy requirements and thus should be fed accordingly.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients, included in small quantities compared to macronutrients such as protein but nonetheless very important in supporting healthy bodily function. Autarky diets have been supplemented with Vitamin E, fatty acids and taurine which both work to support brain development, this aids the dog’s ability to learn and develop neural pathways that they will use throughout their lives. Additional supplementation of glucosamine in our mature diets as well as green lipped mussel in both of our Tasty White Fish & Potato and Tantalising Turkey & Potato diets work to support the joint integrity of active and working dogs. Prebiotics such as MOS (mannan-oligo-saccharides) and natural antioxidants are a welcome addition as they provide support to the immune and digestive function and gastrointestinal health which can be challenged as your dog encounters lifestyle changes, new experiences and challenges as they mature.
At Autarky we believe in being completely transparent when it comes to ‘what’s in the bag’ and as a result are committed to an ‘open declaration’ policy which means every ingredient in our foods are listed on the label no matter how small an inclusion rate, if you would like to read our datasheets on any of our products in more detail, they can be found on each of our product pages, click here.
Written by Georgie White, MSci, MNAVP, MAHPR, EEBW
To ensure your dog’s coat is winter-ready, our team of leading canine experts have shared their top tips for coat maintenance.
Nutrition your dog needs for a healthy coat
The benefits of a healthy, balanced diet apply to your dog’s coat, too. Just like human hair, our dogs’ fur is predominantly made up of protein and keratin, so the right feed can support their overall coat condition.
Choosing a balanced feed with high-quality protein is essential. Autarky has a range of feeds with sources of quality protein, such as salmon, white fish, turkey and chicken, that can support a healthy coat.
Fatty acids, such as Omega 3 and Omega 6, and B vitamins are great for your dog’s coat condition — both of which are included in Autarky feeds.
The importance of grooming your dog’s coat
Grooming your dog’s coat is important all year round, but it becomes essential when the harsh winter weather leaves our dogs’ fur prone to matting. Regular brushing will help keep their fur free from tangles and debris — especially for those with a longer, fluffier or double coat.
Tools such as a fine comb, a wide-toothed metal comb and a soft slicker brush will be essential additions to your grooming kit. However, always make sure you have the right brush to suit your dog’s coat type.
It’s important to use a shampoo that’s right for your dog’s fur — for example, a dog with sensitive skin will need a soothing shampoo, while a curly-haired dog will need a specially formulated one. Using a pet conditioner can also help to nourish the skin and coat.
Before you begin a grooming session, it’s important to check your dog over for any lumps, bumps, cuts and grazes that may be affecting their skin or coat health.
Keeping a close eye
Every owner knows that a bit of cold weather won’t stop our dogs getting active in the outdoors. However, keeping an eye on our dogs’ coat after a long walk or a game of fetch will ensure it remains in good condition for the winter months.
If dogs get any plant matter in their fur, such as twigs or sticky leaves, they’ll likely begin to lick or nibble at it; however, this isn’t always healthy for them. It’s important for owners to keep on top of any bits of debris in their fur and remove them as soon as they return from outside. A bristle brush is useful for removing any twigs, leaves or other debris from your dog’s coat.
To discover Autarky’s range of high-quality, natural balanced feeds, visit here.
]]>If you’ve got a golden oldie, and are looking for some feeding tips, here’s a short guide from Autarky’s expert team of canine nutritionists.
What is a mature feed for dogs?
The benefit of age-specific feeds is that you can ensure your dog is getting all the right nutrients they need to support their bodily requirements at that time in their life.
Mature feeds tend to have fewer calories than standard feeds, as older dogs usually have reduced activity levels as they grow older. In addition, they will contain all the right vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to support ageing joints and keep their immune system healthy.
Autarky has two mature feeds: Mature Lite Chicken and Mature Lite Salmon. Both are lower calorie options, containing the right balance of minerals, energy, protein and trace nutrients to support older dogs. Both also contain functional fibres and prebiotic to support a healthy digestive system.
We also recognise that dogs’ senses reduce as they grow older. That’s why we formulate the recipes to have strong flavour profiles, so that senior dogs can continue to be excited by their food — even if their sniffing ability isn’t quite what it used to be!
When should I transition my dog onto a mature diet?
Generally, a dog is considered senior at seven years old — or when they reach half their expected lifespan. No two dogs are the same, however, so a variety of factors should be considered when choosing whether to transition to a mature diet, including size and breed.
Here are some other factors you should consider and how a mature feed will help:
Weight:
While it’s important for your dog to stay active as a senior, it’s natural that their exercise levels will reduce. This, coupled with a slowing metabolism, means that it’s often difficult for dogs to fight the flab as they grow older.
Autarky’s Mature Lite range has been formulated with a lower calorie content to ensure that older dogs can maintain a healthy weight as their daily habits change. If your dog is still eating the same amount of food they always have, but starting to gain weight with age, then it may be time to switch to a mature diet.
On the other hand, if your dog is still very active and naturally very lean, then it may be best to stick with their normal adult diet. Autarky’s Grain Free range is a good option in this case, as it includes added joint support.
Mobility:
Much like humans, dogs can suffer from the odd aches and pains as they grow older, and stiff joints can be a common problem. Autarky’s Mature Lite range has added joint care, meaning your dog’s mobility can be well-supported without having to supplement separately.
The added joint-care package comes in the form of glucosamine, which helps to lubricate joints and support cartilage formation. If you’ve noticed your dog is having mobility issues, or looks uncomfortable when doing their usual activities, then it may be time to switch to a mature feed for some extra help.
In addition, Mature Lite contains natural antioxidants and herbs to keep the immune system healthy, which can help ward off any mobility-related diseases, such as arthritis.
Our friendly, experienced team are always happy to provide advice on feeding your dog, whatever their age, on our Nutritional Helpline 01832 737 300, Monday – Friday 8.30am–5pm.
]]>Once your vet confirms that your four-legged friend has piled on the pounds and needs to slim down, it’s time to put your overweight dog on a strict diet and exercise plan!
Here are our 5 top tips to get your furry friend back into tip-top condition.
Ideal weights will vary for each dog depending on a number of factors including their breed, age, activity level and any existing health issues your dog they may have. Speaking to your vet or our Autarky Nutritional experts will help you to gain an understanding of the weight that your individual dog should ideally be.
Once you know your dog’s ideal weight it’s time to get them on the scales to see just how far off that they actually are. Your vet should have specialist scales that you can use. Plan in a weigh-in session for your dog every couple of weeks to make sure they stay on track to hit their weight-loss goal!
If your dog is overweight, you want them to lose fat, not muscle. Protein is critical to the maintenance and growth of muscle which is, in turn, key for mobility. Autarky Mature Lite has been developed with a moderate calorie content to prevent weight gain and contains natural antioxidants and beneficial herbs to support the immune system and prebiotics for digestive health.
Exercise plans must take the specifics of your individual dog into consideration. Many overweight pets, especially those that are middle-aged or senior, may have arthritis or other conditions which limit stamina. Walking is the best exercise for most dogs because it shouldn’t overstress the cardiovascular system, and it has a low impact on joints. Gradually increasing the length and frequency of your dog’s daily walks is an effective way of supporting them in losing their excess weight, you should aim for your dog to get about an hour of exercise per day, as long as they can tolerate it. The amount of calories your dog burns is related to the time spent walking, playing games and interacting with their owner.
When your dog reaches their target weight, don’t increase calories or decrease exercise too soon or too dramatically – doing so could lead to them piling the pounds back on again!
Our friendly, experienced team are always happy to provide advice on feeding your dog, whatever their age, on our Nutritional Helpline 01832 737 300, Monday – Friday 8:30am -5pm.