My apologies. Don't know what happened the last time I tried to answer this, but I'll give it another shot :)
Jenn wrote;"Canned pumpkin is a great fiber for dogs who are suffering from intestinal distress. It can cause serious constipation if offered too often or given too much. One scoop for a large dog is plenty to help firm loose stools."
I've used pumpkin (or winter squash) more often for relieving/preventing constipation for both dogs and cats. Never had a problem with it increasing constipation, but YMMV :)
Jenn wrote;"Quick general rules to go by: First five ingredients count the most; avoid by-products, corn or anything that is not specifically named (poultry, beef, porcine meat - all indicate poor quality)."
A different opinion, on some levels. I don't want by-products (as defined by AAFCO) as #1 or 2, but I have no problem with them being included if single sourced. I believe in feeding a "prey model" diet, which includes all parts of the animal that would be consumed. A diet that includes only "meat" as protein/fat would be unbalanced, and missing trace elements, as well as woefully "off" in calcium/phosphorus ratios.
I agree with avoiding corn as part of a daily fed food (my cats and dogs all love corn cobs, too, and when they finish, the cows get them).
I'm not sure I'm reading this right "(poultry, beef, porcine meat-all indicate poor quality)", but to me, all of those are acceptable protein sources.
Nutrition isn't cut and dried, and there are lots of contradictory opinions and well documented studies. Hard to know what to believe. My suggestion is to do some reading, and decide what is best for you, and yours.
Margo
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