Why Is My Dog Always Hungry? Keep Them Full with Fresh Foods
Does your dog seem to have an endless appetite, even after eating? For working breeds like Australian Cattle Dogs or Labradors, this can be tied to high energy demands, natural tendencies, or an incomplete diet. Let’s dive into why this happens and how incorporating fresh food toppers and healthy fats can help keep them fuller for longer—while supporting their gut health and overall well-being.
Why Dogs Feel Hungry After Eating
1. High Energy Demands of Working Breeds
Active, working breeds require more calories, protein, and fat to sustain their energy levels. Hunger might signal that their diet is not meeting these needs, especially if they are fed only kibble.
2. Processed Diets Lack Satiety
Kibble, even high-quality brands, is often low in fiber, moisture, and healthy fats. These nutrients are crucial for making dogs feel full and supporting digestion.
3. Gut Microbiome Imbalances
The gut plays a significant role in hunger regulation. Poor gut health—often caused by a processed diet—can disrupt hormone signaling, leading to constant feelings of hunger.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Dogs on heavily processed diets may lack essential nutrients like omega-3s, amino acids, or fiber, which can affect satiety and overall health.
The Role of Fats in Keeping Dogs Full
Healthy fats are critical for providing long-lasting energy and signaling fullness. They slow down digestion, making meals more satisfying and preventing hunger between feedings.
Key Fat Sources:
Ghee or Butter (Unsalted): Contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and supports a shiny coat.
Beef Tallow: Provides energy and supports joint health.
Coconut Oil: Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easy to digest and offer quick energy.
Fish Oil or Sardines: High in omega-3 fatty acids, they support brain, coat, and joint health.
Serving Sizes for Fats:
Small Dogs: 1/2 teaspoon per meal.
Medium Dogs: 1 teaspoon per meal.
Large Dogs: 1-2 teaspoons per meal.
Learn more about fats for the whole family in my guide, The Essential Healthy Fats Guide for Moms, Babies and Dogs: Boost Brain, Skin, Gut & Immune Health at Every Life Stage!
Fresh Food Toppers to Satisfy Hunger
Adding fresh foods to your dog’s diet can provide additional fiber, nutrients, and moisture to support satiety and gut health.
Vegetables
Green Beans: High in fiber and low in calories, they add bulk to meals.
Serving Size: 1/4 cup per 10 pounds of body weight.
Cauliflower: Nutrient-dense and anti-inflammatory, supports digestion.
Serving Size: 1/4 cup per 10 pounds of body weight.
Pumpkin: Rich in soluble fiber, helps regulate bowel movements.
Serving Size: 1-2 tablespoons for small dogs; up to 1/4 cup for larger dogs.
Sweet Potatoes: Provide slow-digesting carbs and vitamins.
Serving Size: 1-2 tablespoons for small dogs; up to 1/4 cup for larger dogs.
Proteins
Eggs (Cooked or Raw): Packed with protein and fats to sustain energy.
Serving Size: 1 egg per meal for medium-to-large dogs; half for smaller dogs.
Sardines (Canned in Water): High in omega-3s, support coat and brain health.
Serving Size: 1-2 small sardines for small dogs; up to 3 for larger dogs.
Chicken or Turkey (Plain, Cooked): Lean protein for muscle maintenance.
Serving Size: 1-2 ounces per 10 pounds of body weight.
Fruits
Apples (Seedless): Sweet and crunchy, full of fiber and vitamin C.
Serving Size: 1-2 slices per 10 pounds of body weight.
Blueberries: Antioxidant-rich and great for immune support.
Serving Size: 5-10 berries for small dogs; up to 1/4 cup for larger dogs.
From a Gut-Healing Perspective
Why Fresh Foods Help:
Fresh, nutrient-dense foods contain prebiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins that support the gut microbiome, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.
Gut-Healing Symptoms That Fresh Foods Can Address:
Constant hunger due to poor digestion.
Loose stools or constipation.
Skin issues like itchiness or rashes.
Low energy levels or lethargy.
Key Gut-Healing Ingredients:
Pumpkin: Supports healthy stools and soothes the digestive tract.
Sardines: Omega-3s reduce inflammation and support gut lining repair.
Bone Broth: Packed with gelatin and amino acids, it seals the gut lining and reduces inflammation.
Parsley: Freshens breath and supports digestion with antimicrobial properties.
Recipe Ideas for Incorporating Fresh Foods
1. Pumpkin and Green Bean Mash:
Mix 1/4 cup of steamed green beans and 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin into your dog’s kibble.
2. Sardine Sweet Potato Bowl:
Combine 2 tablespoons of mashed sweet potato with 1-2 small sardines.
3. Bone Broth Veggie Stew:
Ingredients: Green beans, carrots, and a splash of unsalted bone broth.
Instructions: Lightly steam the veggies and mix them with the bone broth.
4. Spinach Omelet:
Cook an egg with a handful of chopped spinach for a protein-rich breakfast topper.
Tips for Success
Gradual Introduction: Introduce fresh foods slowly to avoid stomach upset.
Monitor Portions: Ensure fresh foods don’t exceed 20% of the overall diet unless guided by a vet.
Keep Meals Balanced: Include a mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats for optimal nutrition.
Hydration Matters: Add moisture-rich foods like cucumber, zucchini, or watermelon to meals.
Incorporating fresh foods and healthy fats into your dog’s diet is a simple yet effective way to address constant hunger, support gut health, and provide the nutrients they need for an active lifestyle. Always consult your vet before making significant dietary changes, and remember that every dog is unique—adjust portions and ingredients to suit their needs.
By combining fresh food toppers with high-quality fats and addressing gut health, you can keep your pup satisfied, healthy, and full of energy!