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If you're a pet lover, you know how important it is to feed your furry friends the best food possible. You want them to be healthy, happy, and full of energy. Most of all, you want them to have great nutrition at a great value!  Why are pets around the world crazy for Addiction Pet Foods?  Addiction Pet Foods knows how to entice your pet's palate with irresistible flavors and aromas. We use naturally delicious ingredients that appeal to your pet's sense of taste and smell, while being packed with all the nutrition they need. Whether you choose our dry food, wet food, or treats, you can be sure that your pet will love every bite. Don't take our word for it. See what satisfied pet owners around the world have to say about Addiction Pet Foods:  The Difference is in the Quality  Addiction Pet Foods is not your ordinary pet food company. We go further for your pet's nutrition by sourcing the purest and freshest ingredients from New Zealand, one of the cleanest countries in the world. Our pet food is free from fillers, artificial preservatives, steroids, antibiotics, and growth hormones. Real meat is our #1 ingredient, which means your furry friends always get all the good stuff. We use premium proteins, including novel ones like kangaroo, venison, and salmon, that are ethically raised and sustainably sourced. We also add taurine to our dry pet foods for better heart health.  For more information about Addiction Pet Foods and our products, visit our Australia website at www.addictionpet.com.au/ and follow us on our AU Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/AddictionPetFoodsAU.

Addiction Pet Food: A Kiwi Delight Now in Australia!  Hey there, Aussies! We are bursting with excitement to share the news that Addiction Pet Food has made its way to the gorgeous shores of ‘Straya! Your adorable furry companions are in for a real treat as they finally get to indulge in the finest pet nutrition straight from New Zealand.   Who Are We?  At Addiction Pet Foods, we're more than just a brand – we're a passionate team of pet lovers on a mission to change the way we feed our pets. We believe that food provenance plays a big role in health and well-being, and our pets deserve high quality ingredients, made under the best possible conditions, so they can thrive.   It all started with Zack  Zack was a lovable golden retriever who suffered from persistent allergies. His skin troubles led co-founder Jerel on a quest for a remedy. Traditional vet treatments offered temporary relief but had side effects.  Jerel's determination led him to a holistic vet who revealed Zack's issues stemmed from the unhealthy ingredients in mainstream pet foods. Jerel had an epiphany: to create pet food with the best ingredients possible, without artificial additives. They embarked on a journey to New Zealand, known for its pristine meat sources and natural ingredients.  In New Zealand, they crafted recipes packed with premium proteins and wild game meats, free from artificial hormones. They added veggies, fruits, and more for wholesomeness, creating a truly addictive flavor. Pets loved it, and their skin and coat health improved. This marked the birth of Addiction Foods.  Pet Lovers First  We're not just in the business of pet food; we're in the business of caring for your pets like they're our own. Our team is comprised of dedicated pet parents who understand the unique bond between humans and their four-legged family members. That's why we're committed to creating products that we'd be proud to feed to our own fur babies.  Kiwi Pioneers  We are incredibly proud to call New Zealand our home, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich natural beauty. Our dedication to innovation in pet nutrition has always been our focus, and we strive to provide pet food that is beyond the ordinary. It brings us great joy to introduce new and exciting ways to nourish and care for our furry friends. This is why we've spent years perfecting our meat-first recipes and sourcing only the finest ingredients from New Zealand's bountiful nature.  Ethical Stewards  We believe that our responsibility extends beyond providing nutritious meals. We're dedicated to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. It's not just about what goes into our pet food; it's about how we make it. We're committed to making choices that benefit animals, the environment, and the well-being of your pets.   Quality, Not Compromise  When it comes to quality, we never compromise. We've set the bar high, and we're proud to say that our products exceed industry standards. New Zealand’s pet food requirements are strict – any pet food manufacturer looking to do business there must adhere to stringent biosecurity requirements. Every ingredient in our Addiction brand is carefully selected, every recipe meticulously crafted, and every bag rigorously tested to ensure your pets get nothing but the best.  Join the Addiction Family & Sign up with us!  We are thrilled to enter the Australian market! We extend a warm invitation for you to join the Addiction family and embark on an extraordinary journey. Explore our exquisite collection of premium dog and cat food, featuring unique protein options that cater even to the most delicate furry friends.    Visit our website and follow our social media pages and discover the captivating story behind our brand and our unwavering commitment to quality. Your beloved fur babies deserve nothing but the best!    https://www.facebook.com/AddictionPetFoodsAU/  https://www.instagram.com/addictionpetau  https://www.tiktok.com/@addictionpetau    As an introduction to Addiction, if you Sign up to our newsletter here, you’ll even and get 25% off your first order!  Get ready for some wagging tails fueled by Addiction Pet Foods! 

Dog nutrition is getting more attention because of unique ingredients like Kangaroo and Coconut Oil. Right now, kangaroo dog food is very popular. At the same time, coconut is becoming a great addition to a dog's diet. But why are kangaroo meat and coconut so popular in the pet food industry? Let's look at the health benefits these special ingredients provide and how they help improve your dog's health.  The Benefits of Kangaroo in Dog Food Kangaroo dog food is an excellent choice for many reasons, primarily because of its high nutritional value. Kangaroo meat is a lean source of protein low in saturated fats and minerals like iron and zinc, both vital for a dog's immune system.   Moreover, kangaroo meat has a unique advantage for dogs with allergies. It's considered a novel protein source, meaning it's something that dogs aren't typically exposed to and are, therefore, less likely to be allergic to. This can be a great option for dogs having digestive sensitivities and food allergies or intolerances.   The Power of Coconut Oil for Dogs Now, let's turn our attention to coconuts. A tropical gem, coconut, and its derivatives (like coconut oil) are increasingly gaining popularity as dog health supplements. The lauric acid present in coconut has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, which can boost your dog's immune system. When applied topically, coconut oil can also improve skin conditions, reduce allergic reactions, and promote a shiny, healthy coat.  The Perfect Blend: Kangaroo Dog Food with Coconut Oil   When kangaroo dog food is combined with coconut oil, it creates a nutrient-packed powerhouse that provides dogs with numerous health benefits. The lean, hypoallergenic protein from kangaroo is balanced with the immune-boosting properties of coconut, offering a comprehensive nutritional profile that supports the well-being of your canine companion. If you’re looking for a Kangaroo meal for your dog, Wild Kangaroo & Apples Recipe is a great option. Wild Australian Kangaroo as a novel protein source  Formulated for dogs with skin and digestive sensitivities  Free from common allergens such as chicken, poultry, wheat, potatoes, corn, soy and gluten  Always gradually introduce new foods to your dog's diet and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet's nutrition. The dietary needs of dogs can vary based on their breed, age, size, and overall health condition, so it's essential to consider these factors when planning their meals.  The emergence of novel protein sources like kangaroo and beneficial additions like coconut in dog food reflects a shift towards more natural and health-supportive ingredients in pet nutrition. It's not just about filling their bellies but enhancing their lives. So, when it comes to your pet's health, exploring the benefits of kangaroo dog food and coconut could be a step in the right direction.   

Beagles are a hunting dog breed defined by their strong sense of smell. They're also friendly to children, similar to Golden Retrievers. The one difference is that Beagles have a strong sense of smell, making them great hunting companions or contraband detectors.   If you’re looking to get one of these dogs as pets, here are a few facts and things to know about Beagles.    Breed history  The exact origins of the Beagle are unclear, but it’s believed that they are a product of centuries of breeding between European and British Hounds. These are thought to share an ancestry with the foxhound and now-extinct Southern Hound.  Beagles as we know them most likely took shape as a result of refining and standardized breeding in England and Scotland during the 1800’s. The American Kennel Club later recognized Beagles in 1885, and is the 7th most popular dog breed in America as of 2020.  Today, Beagles have two varieties: those who usually stand at 13 inches at the shoulder, and those slightly bigger, reaching up to 15 inches. Both varieties have a sturdy build, hazel eyes, and large floppy ears. Their coat colors can range from lemon, red-and-white, or even a tricolor mix of brown, black, and white.    Is the Beagle the right breed for you?  As Beagles are defined by their strong sense of smell, they have a tendency to follow and hyperfocus on scents that interest them. They’re known to have at least 220 million scent receptors on their noses, a trait that makes them helpful in sniffing out contraband in airports. This ability was first used in 1984 at Los Angeles International Airport and continues to this day around America.  While their sensitive noses give Beagles a wide range of employment opportunities, this can make them difficult to housetrain. That’s why it’s recommended to make them familiar with as many scents at home as possible to engage their constant curiosity. Doing so may help reduce the chances of getting distracted by whatever they smell.   Since they are an active dog breed used for hunting, they will need proper socialization at a young age and daily walks to burn off the excess energy. Despite their general friendliness, Beagles will find ways to amuse themselves if not actively engaged in activities. If left alone, they can be prone to actions like digging or howling. Training them with food is also a highly recommended option for making them obey your commands.  Beagles are also prone to shedding, despite having a short coat. Be sure to brush them 2 to 3 times a week and clean their ears weekly.     Common health issues  Beagles are prone to Musladin-Lueke Syndrome or Chinese Beagle Syndrome, a genetic disease that targets connective tissues like joints, bones and skin. This can result in a smaller size, reduced joint mobility and an abnormal gait. Early testing is recommended to prepare for treatment if possible.  Intervertebral disc disease is another issue that affects the cartilage discs in the backbone. These can become damaged due to wear and tear or constant activity. Surgery may be needed to correct this, depending on the severity of the disease.   Seizures and epilepsy can also be common problems Beagles can face as early as 6 months old. This may require giving them medication for life.    Diet and nutrition  Beagles are medium-breed dogs that require an active lifestyle. This means they need a diet rich in Proteins and enhanced with Taurine, Glucosamine and Chondroitin to maintain muscle health, heart health, and joint mobility. All these are found in  Addiction MEGA.    MEGA is a Complete and Balanced diet made with premium New Zealand Lamb and Beef to help medium to large breed dogs build and maintain muscles. It’s also enriched with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to keep their joints healthy. Best of all, it has a large-size kibble that encourages thorough chewing and digestion. That way, your dog gets the most nutrition out of each serving.   Another option would be Addiction Raw Alternative Dog Food. This product range provides the goodness of raw food with the safety and convenience of dry food. It’s also made with premium proteins and formulated for your dog’s overall health. It has 6 different flavors that have an irresistible smell.   Addiction Raw Alternative Dog Food can be served in five different ways to liven up mealtimes: on its own, as a kibble topper, with canned food, or paired with home-cooked meals. 

All photos courtesy of @perromart.sg and @oscarthebelovedbeagle Feeding time is easily one of pet parents' favorite ways to bond with their dogs. Preparing meals and seeing our pets eating them can bring about a sense of connection, fulfillment, and purpose.  However, not all canines are as willing to eat anything. Some are fussy and are completely fine missing a meal or two if the food is not up to their taste.  Whether you're struggling to feed a picky eater or just looking for ways to develop a healthier eating habit for your dog, here's what you need to know.    Common reasons why dogs won't eat their food  There are a lot of reasons why dogs won't touch their food. For one, illnesses such as kidney disease or dental problems can make them lose their appetite. To ensure that there's no underlying health problem that your dog is suffering from, take them to the vet for a quick physical checkup and routine bloodwork.  Another possible reason for your dog's refusal to eat is behavioral problem. Are there stressors at home, such as another pet harassing your dog during mealtimes? Did you suddenly change his routine? Moved to a new home? Recognizing if your pet is stressed is crucial. Some of the tell-tale signs of a stressed dog are:  Crouching  Tail tucked between legs  Shivering   Excessive licking  Panting  Overfeeding can also lead to appetite loss. So, make sure that their treats do not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake. Giving table scraps is also a huge no-no. It might seem like small pieces of chicken or cheese won't hurt them, but it will hugely affect their reaction toward dinner later. It's best to stick with the recommended feeding guide according to weight to ensure that your dog eats the right amount of food on a timely basis.   If you've already ruled out illness, behavior issues, and overfeeding, it's time to explore other feeding options for your dog's picky palate. Just like us, dogs have individual preferences.    Managing a picky eater  More than the struggle of constantly experimenting to figure out what kind of texture, taste, and smell your dog prefers, it's the health implications that come with picky eating that worry pet parents the most. Picky eating can lead to malnutrition and weight loss.   A solution Krista Williams, BSc and DVM and Robin Downing, CVPP and DVM recommend is to offer food in the morning. If your dog won't touch or eat it but doesn’t entirely consume it within 15 to 30 minutes, take the food away until their next mealtime. Note that this method works only for dry food like kibbles. If you're feeding wet food, it's best to throw the leftovers away to avoid the risk of spoilage.   If this still doesn't work, try sprinkling a delicious topper on your dog's food. Addiction Pet Foods' Raw Alternative Dog Food is specially formulated for fussy eaters.   @oscarthebelovedbeagle enjoys a serving of Homestyle Venison and Cranberry Dinner, one of Addiction Raw Alternative Dog Food's delicious flavors. It's available in six mouthwatering flavors.  Country Chicken and Apricot Dinner  Features tender and cage-free New Zealand Chicken combined with the delicate aroma of sweet Apricots Herbed Lamb and Potatoes Entrée  Features grass-fed New Zealand Lamb seasoned with fragrant Rosemary and Thyme  Perfect Summer Brushtail  Features sustainably-sourced Brushtail, a novel protein source ideal for dogs sensitive to Chicken, Beef and Lamb  Homestyle Venison and Cranberry Dinner  Features free-range New Zealand Venison, a novel protein source ideal for dogs sensitive to Chicken, Beef and Lamb  Made with meat as the #1 ingredient, our raw alternative food offers dogs an irresistible meaty scent and taste. It's cooked using a lower temperature, rapid-air drying technology to keep the food safe from harmful bacteria while ensuring maximum nutritional benefits. Plus, it's enriched with nutrient-packed superfoods to help fight against damage from harmful free radicals and boost the immune system. 

Just like vitamins, minerals are micronutrients needed by the body to perform properly. Pets use minerals for many different jobs, including growth, muscle development, and heart function. This makes minerals an essential component in your pet's diet.   There are two types of minerals: major or macrominerals and trace minerals. Macrominerals are essential to build muscles, bones, and nerve cells. They also act as essential electrolytes needed to regulate the acidity of the blood and the amount of water in the body. Some examples of macrominerals are Calcium, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Magnesium.   Trace minerals, on the other hand, are necessary for certain hormones that help regulate the body. Unlike macro minerals, trace minerals are needed only in small amounts. Examples of trace minerals are Copper, Manganese, Zinc, and Iodine.   But did you know that some minerals, such as Magnesium, Zinc, and Iron, are not easily absorbable in their inorganic form? These minerals are essential in energy production and immune system function. To help make sure that pets absorb nutrients properly, minerals are bonded with amino acids or hydrolyzed proteins- a process called chelation.   What does chelate mean Chelate means chemically bonding one substance to another. Chelation usually happens between minerals and amino acids. "When you chelate a mineral, two things happen. One, you make them more water-soluble, and number two, you will make them more absorbable," said Dr. Jean Paul Ly, DMV.  Chelated vs non-chelated minerals Chelated Minerals are more easily absorbed during digestion than non-chelated minerals.  Chelated Minerals have a stronger bond than non-chelated minerals, making them more stable as they pass through our pet's stomach. This stability allows nutrient absorption. In the case of non-chelated minerals, they tend to dissociate and bind with other elements in the gut, resulting in food being excreted without being used.    Chelated Minerals are specially designed to improve nutrient absorption. Better nutrient absorption means that our pets' bodies can function properly and fight off diseases. Addiction recognizes the advantages of using Chelated Minerals in pet food. That is why every bag is enriched with these high-performing minerals so that your pets can absorb the most out of every meal.   Check out our nutritional solutions here:  Dry Dog Food  Dry Cat Food  Credits:  Photo by Mitchell Orr on Unsplash 

Puppies grow faster than adult dogs. That's why they need a formulation specific to their developmental needs. Aside from higher fat and protein levels, puppies also need at minimum, three times the amount of calcium that adult dogs require. To be precise, growing puppies need 1.2% while adult dogs need 0.5% on a dry matter basis. Giving puppies all these nutritional requirements is important as this will determine their long-term health.    Before discussing how much calcium puppies need, it’s essential to understand what this mineral does for their body and what other nutrients or minerals they work with.   Calcium and bone development   Calcium is one of the essential minerals that dogs need for proper bone and tooth growth. It’s a vital building block that growing bones need to absorb and store to properly form and stay sturdy.      According to the Whole Dog Journal, this mineral is also needed to maintain muscle control and help prevent seizures. Too much of it, however, can cause skeletal malformations and deficiencies in other nutrients.   Aside from Calcium, bones also need Phosphorus to stay strong and Vitamin D to aid in Calcium and Phosphorus absorption. Together, these 3 nutrients ensure your pet develops healthy bones so they can live their lives to the fullest.  Guidelines in Calcium content While the general rule is that puppies need higher Calcium than adults, specific requirements will depend on the breed or size.   While small and large breeds have the same minimum requirement, there are restrictions that need to be observed depending on their growth stage. Since large breed puppies grow faster than small to medium breeds, they're prone to Calcium overdose. The maximum Calcium level for small to medium breeds is 2.5% per kg of food in dry matter, while for large breeds, it's 1.8%.  This is the optimum limit that puppies should get to avoid any malformed bones as they grow.   Generally, dog foods for both puppies and adult dogs should have a minimum requirement of 1:1 and a maximum of 2:1 of Calcium to Phosphorous for both growth and maintenance.  Checking AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles can be useful to know if the formula you’re getting is suited for large dog breeds. Usually those labeled “for growth/all life stages including growth of large-breed puppies (70 lbs or more as an adult)” is your best bet.   Other things to note about puppy food  Hill Crest Animal Hospital states that depending on their growth rate, small breeds should have puppy food until 7 to 8 months of age. Medium breeds need to stay on it for 8 to 10 months, while large and giant breeds need at least a year.  Given these requirements, it’s important to have puppy food that falls within the given ranges and ratios for your growing pets to have sufficient bone development during their most active times. Dog foods with the “Complete and balanced” or “specifically formulated for puppies” labels are highly recommended.   Addiction Pet Foods products are specially formulated for your growing dog’s needs. Products like Salmon Bleu Puppy provide ample nutrition for your puppies as well as the needed Calcium between 1.2 and 1.8 % on a dry matter basis. 

Coconut oil started surging in popularity in 2011, being tagged as a "health food" for its countless health benefits and uses. Its proliferation in natural skincare products and health food aisles became so apparent that pet parents had to ask – is it something my pets can also benefit from?  The answer is a resounding yes. Veterinarians agree that Coconut oil is healthy for pets. If you're on edge about including this edible oil in your pet's diet, read on to know its components and what makes it beneficial for pets.    What is Coconut oil  Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of a Coconut. It's high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of saturated fat. Saturated fat is a dietary fat commonly found in meat but is also seen in plant foods like Coconut and Palm oil.   There are several types of MCTs found in Coconut oil:  Lauric acid (49%)  Caprylic acid (8%)  Myristic acid (8%)  Palmitic acid (8%)  Capric acid (7%)  Oleic acid (6%)  Stearic acid (2%)  Linoleic acid (2%)  The benefits of coconut oil  Coconut oil has a wide range of nutrients that help contribute to your pet's overall health. "Coconuts are a rich source of protein and minerals. The oil itself has antibacterial properties effective against certain types of fungi," said Dr. Jean Paul Ly, DMV. Some of the benefits of coconut oil include: Energy boost Coconut oil's MCT components contribute to higher energy levels in pets. According to Dr. Bruce Fife, C.N., N.D., Coconut oil "balances the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic".  Better digestion   Dr. Fife also notes the power of Coconut oil in improving digestion. Lauric acid's antibacterial properties help promote gut health by supporting the growth of good bacteria. As a bonus, Lauric acid also helps the body absorb nutrients from foods.   Healthier skin and coat  Aside from Lauric acid promoting good gut health and nutrient absorption, it's also effective in reducing inflammation.  Together with Capric Acid and Caprylic Acid, they make one of the best antibacterial and antifungal agents. This makes Coconut Oil effective in promoting skin and coat healthy by easing irritation caused by hot spots and yeast dermatitis.   Improved cognitive function  We've previously discussed how Coconut oil is made up of several MCTs. These MCTs, once digested by the body, turn into Ketones. Ketones provide energy to the brain. A study conducted on senior Beagles proved that MCTs help stimulate senior dogs' cognitive function. So, giving your senior dogs Coconut oil can help sharpen their memory.   Including Coconut oil in your pet's diet  As with any other new food introduced to pets, it's best to err on the side of caution. Talk to your veterinarian so you can make an informed decision about adding Coconut oil in your pet's diet. And if you decide to push through about adding this edible oil, make sure to start slow to avoid diarrhea.   Pet food with Coconut oil  If you want to opt for a more convenient way of including Coconut oil in your pet's diet, consider feeding your pets food that includes Coconut oil in the ingredients list. Addiction Pet Foods' provides pet parents like you a wide range of nutritional solutions enriched with Coconut oil:  Addiction Raw Alternative Food  Country Chicken and Apricot Dinner Features tender and cage-free New Zealand Chicken combined with the delicate aroma of sweet Apricots Herbed Lamb and Potatoes Entrée  Features grass-fed New Zealand Lamb seasoned with fragrant Rosemary and Thyme Homestyle Venison and Cranberry Dinner  Features free-range New Zealand Venison, a novel protein source ideal for dogs sensitive to Chicken, Beef and Lamb Perfect Summer Brushtail  Features sustainably-sourced Brushtail, novel protein source ideal for dogs sensitive to Chicken, Beef and Lamb   Addiction Dry Food  Wild Kangaroo & Apples Recipe Wild Australian Kangaroo formula free from common allergens, ideal for dogs with skin and digestive sensitivities Viva La Venison  Free-range New Zealand Venison formula free from common allergens, ideal for dogs with skin and digestive sensitivities  Zen Vegetarian  A 100% plant-based formula with added vitamins, minerals and amino acids.    Addiction Dog Treat Venison Recipe Meaty Bites  Moist and soft-textured treats made with free-range New Zealand Venison as the #1 ingredient Brushtail Recipe Meaty Bites  Moist and soft-textured treats made with wild New Zealand Brushtail as the #1 ingredient Beef Recipe Meaty Bites  Moist and soft-textured treats made with grass-fed New Zealand Beef as the #1 ingredient Would you consider feeding your pets a diet made with Coconut oil? Let us know in the comment section! – Addictionpet.com  Credits:  Photo by Mikhail Nilov from Pexels   

Golden Retrievers are among America’s most popular dog breeds. Not only are they skilled hunters, they can also work as assistants for the blind, or as search-and-rescue dogs. Even as pets, they’re loyal, lovable, and great with kids.  If you plan on getting one for yourself, here are a few things you need to know about Golden Retrievers.   Breed history  Golden Retrievers can trace their history as early as the 1800’s, where they initially bred as hunting dogs in Scotland. Though this was their primary role, they also excelled in search-and-rescue as well as guide work.   In 1908, they were displayed at a British dog show and later, the Kennel Club in England recognized them as a distinct breed in 1911. They were first known as “Yellow or Gold Retrievers” due to their yellow or golden fur color. This changed in the 1920’s when they were eventually reclassified as “Golden Retrievers”.  This breed was also introduced around the 1910s in the United States and Canada and later recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1932.  The signature gold coat color is what separates them from Labrador Retrievers, which are usually black in color. Some Labrador Retrievers can also have a pale white-yellow or even a chocolate-colored coat as well. Apart from the coat color, Labradors can also be slightly larger than their golden counterparts by a few inches and heavier by at least 5 pounds.   Is the Golden Retriever the right breed for you?  Since these dogs are bred as hunters, they require at least an hour of exercise daily. This means taking them out for walks or even playing fetch outdoors. You can also have them do mental challenges like treat dispenser puzzles, but these should not be treated as replacements for physical activities.   Not giving them enough time for exercise can result in these dogs doing things like digging or chewing at objects like furniture to relieve their stress. If your lifestyle doesn’t allow time for taking your dog out on walks at the very least, it might not be advisable for you to get one as a pet.   As puppies, they also require a fair amount of socialization to help them adjust to life in the city. The first 2 years of their lives require their owners to be outgoing and fairly active so that the Retriever can be comfortable taking walks and getting the needed exercise later on.   For city dwellers, Retrievers have a tendency to shed moderately. This means you may need to sweep or vacuum your house often to get rid of any fur that may be lying around. Brushing once a week can also help keep their coat looking well-groomed.   Common health issues  Golden Retrievers have a lifespan of at least 10 to 13 years, this means they may be prone to diseases in their later years and may require greater care and assistance on your part as pet owners. There are 3 common things to watch out for regarding their health as they grow older.  Cancers like Lymphoma are more likely to affect this breed, according to the Prestige Animal Hospital. This disease causes the dog’s body to form abnormal lymphocytes or white blood cells. Fortunately, this form of cancer is treatable with chemotherapy and can be detected early with regular blood tests.  Other things to watch out for are problems in the bones and joints. Since Retrievers are also classified as medium to large dog breeds, they may suffer from weakened joints in their later years. This means they can be less active or even suffer arthritis as they grow older. Large-breed dog foods with Glucosamine can help maintain healthy joints and minimize these risks.  Allergies are also a common issue for them. Pollen, mold, dust, or certain foods can make their skin itchy. Frequent scratching or licking can be signs of allergies to watch out for. If your dog suffers from severe meat allergies, then it might be a good option to give them plant-based proteins as an alternative.  Diet and nutrition  Golden Retrievers require high-quality protein in their diet. They would also benefit from a diet that's enriched with Glucosamine and Chondroitin as these supplements support their mobility.   To keep your Golden Retriever healthy, feed them with Addiction MEGA. MEGA is a Complete and Balanced diet made with premium New Zealand Lamb and Beef, high-quality proteins to help medium to large breed dogs build and maintain muscles. It’s also enriched with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to keep their joints healthy. Best of all, it has large-size kibble that encourages thorough chewing and digestion. That way, your dog gets the most nutrition out of each serving. For more information about dog breeds and pet care, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. – Addictionpet.com 

Part of your dog’s growth is learning how and when to make the switch from puppy to adult-formulated dog food. Such changes aren’t made outright, as your dog’s stomach needs to adjust slowly to a new formula. If done improperly, indigestion can happen. Before we discuss the when and how, it’s important to know the difference between the two.  Puppy vs. dog food  Puppy-formulated dog food has one main difference from adult ones: higher Fat and Protein content, according to American Veterinary Medical Association member Dr. Jennifer Coates.   Dr. Coates goes further to say that the Association of American Feed Control Official’s (AAFCO) minimum required amounts of Protein and Fat are at 22.5% and 8.5% on dry matter basis respectively. While adult dog food has a lower minimum required Protein and Fat content at 18% and 5.5% respectively.   How and when to switch  Starting from their puppy food, introduce a small amount of the adult formula at least twice per day. Then slowly increase the ratio to half before finally feeding them only adult food. If your dog experiences any symptoms of indigestion, return to giving the previous food before repeating the process.  The transition period for new food can take 5 to 7 days on average, according to Dr. Sherry Lynn Sanderson from the University of Georgia.  The rule of thumb is to slowly introduce adult dog food to puppies once they are one year old, according to the Tufts University Veterinary Medical Center. Keep in mind this can vary depending on the breed. Dogs like Labradors may begin at 12 months of age, but bigger breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs may need as long as 18 months.  In choosing food for your puppy, it’s important to consider the protein source. At this age, your puppies are still growing and need higher quality protein to build muscles and their strength. New Zealand King Salmon is one such source that can give them a great start in life.  One example of puppy food that features a high-quality protein source is Addiction Pet Foods’ Salmon Bleu for Puppies. It has a slightly higher Protein content at 26%, and Fat content at 12%. That way, your growing dogs get more of the needed nutrients in order to grow healthy.   Then once your dogs reach adulthood, you can slowly switch to Salmon Bleu for dogs which gives up to 24% Protein and 13% Fat content. Both Salmon Bleu for puppies and dogs are rich in Omega-3 for radiant coats.   It’s important to take into account the individual preferences of your dog first during this transition period. Once the transition period is complete, they’ll be able to enjoy eating the new food without any problems.   – AddictionPet.com

Just like introducing someone to others for the first time, your dog needs to be comfortable with other people to be socialized properly. Doing so takes time to build trust and can’t be done outright, especially if it’s a new dog or a rescue that hasn’t had much human contact.  Socializing is also a vital part of training your dog. According to Paul Owens, a professional dog trainer, this means you need to have your pets comfortable with you, family, and friends so that they don’t feel stressed. This paves the way for introducing new situations that are safe, positive, and confidence-building.  The act of training your dog is especially important during National Train Your Dog Month in January. This is an initiative started by The Association of Professional Dog Trainers as a public service announcement to help people and pets live a better, happier life together.  Here are 3 tips to help you get started with socializing your dog  1. Start them young If you’re socializing a puppy, up to 3 months of age is the best time for them to be exposed to new experiences. These can include meeting unfamiliar people, things you find in a park, traffic signs, bicycles, and even vehicles.  The earlier you familiarize your puppy with these everyday encounters, the better they can handle being with people and other dogs later on in their lives.   Experiences like being with their mothers and littermates will often be the first of many in getting them to socialize with others. As they grow older, exposure to other pets, household objects, and your friends and family can likely give them a safe environment to start with.  2. Frequent walks Being familiar with your surroundings and the people around you requires repeated exposure. It’s the same with socializing your dogs. Taking frequent walks is the most cited piece of advice for raising your pets, regardless of age.  Start by walking them a distance away from the park or other people where your pet can observe the environment. Slowly as they become more familiar, you can move them closer until they can interact with other people or animals.   Keep in mind that even with this gradual transitioning, dogs will always encounter unfamiliar situations in these walks, be it animals like birds or other dogs. It may be likely that they will bark at strangers, but the point of this exercise is to make them comfortable outside.   When your dog barks often, it’s best to remove them firmly but calmly from the situation to make them relax before you continue walking them.  3. Your attitude matters too While it’s important for your dog to adjust to its environment, you also need to be mindful of how you treat your dogs. Dogs may bark at strangers, other dogs, or even at anything that excites or agitates them. In these cases, forceful or restrictive actions like pulling back their leash will only worsen their reactions.  Remaining calm, confident, but firm will play a long way in getting your pet’s emotions under control. A reassuring tone of voice or command they’re trained to respond to beforehand may help get them to quiet down.   Socialization isn’t something that happens instantly, but something that’s done over a large part of your dog’s life. If done correctly, your dog will be more mature and will most likely be open to new experiences without overreacting too badly.  – Addiction Pet Foods