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What Is Inflammation

Inflammation is a body’s natural response to an illness or injury in an attempt to heal itself, and it’s actually a sign of a healthy, working immune system. When a dog’s body senses an issue, it sends white blood cells and fluids to the area  — causing inflammation — to begin the healing process. 

Like with humans, acute inflammation isn’t always cause for concern. For example, a dog’s foot may become swollen if it has a thorn stuck in it, but once you’ve removed the thorn and treated it, the inflammation should dissipate. 

Chronic inflammation, however, may be cause for concern if not looked into by a veterinarian, as it can lead to more issues down the line. There are a variety of reasons for chronic inflammation, such as seasonal allergies, arthritis, or a digestive condition. In this blog, we’ll dive into food-related inflammation and how it can be helped through a fresh diet.

How Can A Change In Diet Help With A Dog’s Inflammation? 

A dog’s diet directly affects their gut biome, which in turn affects their immune system. For example, studies have shown that deficiencies in Faecalibacterium are associated with inflammatory bowel disease in dogs. The bottom line: Diet affects your dog’s health and wellbeing, including their body’s inflammatory reactions. 

If your dog is struggling with chronic inflammation, connect with your veterinarian to help determine the cause — which could be something in their food. In the meantime, you can help your dog by giving them naturally anti-inflammatory foods to help ease their symptoms. 

Ingredients That Are Naturally Anti-Inflammatory For Dogs 

Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory that not only reduces inflammation, it also works to prevent it from returning. 

Ginger 

Ginger may be spicy, but its benefits are sweet. By giving your dog some fresh ginger or ginger powder with their food, you will see a decrease in their inflammation, and if they have it already, a decrease in nausea. 

Blueberries 

Blueberries have high levels of antioxidants that fight inflammation in both dogs and humans. They are also a great source of vitamin C, which helps maintain tissue health. 

Coconut 

Coconut is filled with fatty acids that help fight infections contributing to inflammation. Additionally, coconut is great in aiding a healthy skin and coat, particularly for dogs who struggle with dryness and itching. 

Celery 

Ever wonder why Instagram influencers drink celery juice? It’s because celery is a great way to reduce inflammation! Celery is also a great, natural way to clean dogs’ teeth

Kale 

Kale is a great source of reduced inflammation, as well as a handful of other vitamins, such as calcium, that help dogs thrive. 

Fish 

Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which work as a natural anti-inflammatory. Here is everything you need to know about feeding fish to dogs


With today’s highly-processed dog foods and kibbles, there’s no telling what your dog is eating that is causing inflammation. By feeding your dog a fresh diet, you can rest assured that you know what’s in their diet and that none of the ingredients have been stripped of their natural minerals and vitamins.

Curious about which foods are good for your dog, and which ones you should be avoiding? Check out these resources on dog food and nutrition:

Can Dogs Eat Bacon?

Can Dogs Have Chicken Broth

Best Senior Dog Food Toppers For Sensitive Stomach 

Dog Food Toppers And Dog Treats For Dogs With Allergies

Is Fresh Dog Food Better For Dogs

Best Dog Treats For Picky Eaters

What Is Chicken Byproduct In Dog Food

What To Feed Dogs With Bad Breath

 

At Portland Pet Food Company our fresh meals include a variety of ingredients that aid in dog inflammation. Additionally, our meals are cooked gently and slowly, making them easier to digest. For dogs that struggle with inflammation, our dog food toppers offer a healthy, delicious way to introduce a healthier diet into their life. Sign up for our dog food toppers subscription service and get 25% off your first order, then 10% off every order after that.

Delicious Cat Food, Too
We also have fresh, healthy cat food! Check out our chicken and pumpkin cat food and salmon and pumpkin cat food.

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