While most commercial dog foods offer a balanced diet, the addition of meal toppers can elevate their culinary experience and provide a range of benefits. Read on to learn what makes a good dog food topper and why I personally recommend it for your canine friend's overall health.

The Evolution of Dog Diets

From being hunters' companions to sharing our homes and hearts, dogs have come a long way throughout our shared history. Similarly, their diets have evolved, transitioning from simple scraps to specially formulated commercial dog food. 

While these foods are designed to provide essential nutrients, they can sometimes lack the variety and freshness that dogs in the wild would have. This is where meal toppers step in, offering a solution to bridge the gap between nutritional needs and culinary satisfaction.

Why Use a Dog Food Topper?

Palatability and Variety

Do you like to eat the same food day after day? Neither does your dog! Meal toppers introduce variety, flavors, and textures, making every meal exciting. Whether it's a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of creamy goat milk, toppers awaken your dog's taste buds and encourage them to relish every bite.

Enhanced Nutrition

Meal toppers often consist of nutrient-rich ingredients like lean meats, vegetables, and even pet-friendly mushrooms. Adding these to your dog's meal can provide an extra boost of much-needed vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, enhancing their overall nutrition.

Picky Eaters and Appetite Boosters

If you’re a pet parent to a picky eater, we get it. Meal toppers can entice even the most finicky eaters, encouraging them to enjoy their meal instead of turning up their noses. This is especially useful for dogs with a decreased appetite due to illness or old age.

Weight Management

For dogs needing to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, meal toppers are a great way to provide a satisfying meal without significantly increasing caloric intake. Many dog food toppers  are low-calorie yet flavorful, so your canine companion can enjoy the best of both worlds. 

Digestive Health

Many meal toppers contain ingredients that aid digestion, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber. These components can promote a healthy gut, reduce digestive issues, and improve nutrient absorption.

Joint and Skin Health

Omega-3 fatty acids, essential nutrients found in many meal toppers, are renowned for their benefits to joint and skin health. These fatty acids can alleviate joint pain, reduce inflammation, and contribute to a shiny coat.

How to Choose the Right Meal Topper

Selecting the perfect dog food topper for your canine companion requires consideration of their specific needs and preferences. Here are some tips to guide your decision:

Nutritional Content

Check the ingredient list for quality proteins, whole grains, and beneficial additives. Avoid toppers with excessive artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers.

Dietary Restrictions

If your dog has dietary restrictions or pet allergies, ensure the chosen topper aligns with their needs. Hypoallergenic options are available for dogs with sensitivities.

Texture and Flavor

Observe your dog's preferences regarding textures and flavors. Some may prefer crunchy freeze-dried toppers, while others might enjoy the creaminess of goat milk.

Health Goals

Consider your dog's specific health goals, whether it's weight management, joint support, or digestive health. Choose a topper that aligns with these objectives.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Before introducing any significant changes to your dog's diet, it's advisable to consult your dog’s veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog's health profile.

Why a Goat Milk Meal Topper is One of the Best for Dogs 

Whether you’re on the lookout for a tasty treat for your pup or a supplement to alleviate their mild health concerns, goat milk is an excellent option. Not only do dogs find its creamy deliciousness irresistible, but it’s chock-full of nourishing benefits for their digestive system, skin, and more. 

Here are some veterinarian-formulated goat milk meal toppers from Fera Pet Organics that I highly recommend:  

• Multivitamin Goat Milk Topper:  This tasty goat milk topper just became more nourishing with the inclusion of essential vitamins and minerals plus probiotics. It includes what your furry friend needs to stay active, happy, and healthy. 
• Immune Goat Milk Topper: This unique formula features whole cream goat’s milk for an irresistible flavor combined with natural herbs and probiotics for a healthy immune system.
• Hip & Joint Goat Milk Topper: If your pet suffers from hip or joint mobility issues, this veterinarian-formulated powder is made to help keep your pet movin' and groovin' with natural ingredients like green-lipped mussel and glucosamine. 
• Skin & Coat Milk Topper: Say goodbye to bad hair days! This blend of goat milk, biotin, and flaxseed oil will give your dog’s skin and coat that healthy glow. 
• Calm Milk Topper: Featuring calm-inducing ingredients like Ashwagandha and L-theanine, this dog food topper will keep stress and all the health concerns it brings at bay. 

Don’t forget to try these do-it-all oils that also make a great addition to your dog’s daily meals: 

• Fish Oil: We use sustainably wild-caught Icelandic sardines, anchovies, herring, and mackerel to make our nutrient-rich fish oil. We also include Vitamin E to help your dog’s body process the oil even better. 
• Vegan Omega-3, 6, 9s Algae Oil: This full spectrum Omega profile of 3s, 6s, and 9s, supports healthy vision and retinal development, a healthy immune system, heart, joints, skin, and coat.  

Incorporating Meal Toppers: Do’s and Don'ts

• Start Slowly: It’s best to introduce meal toppers gradually to allow your dog's digestive system to adjust.

• Monitor Reactions: Keep an eye on your dog's response to the new topper. Watch for any signs of food allergies or sensitivities.
• Don't Overdo It: While meal toppers are beneficial, they shouldn't replace the base diet entirely. Maintain a balanced approach and be sure to discuss any diet changes with your dog’s veterinarian. 
• Don't Forget Water: Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water, especially when incorporating new elements into their diet.

The Holistic Support Your Pet Needs to Thrive 

Your pet deserves only the best, especially when it comes to their nutrition. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to provide clean, wholesome supplements that both dogs and cats need to thrive and live their best lives. 

Explore our full collection of veterinarian-created supplements for pets and don’t forget to subscribe to their favorites to enjoy member-only benefits like free shipping, exclusive deals, and more.