Food Types

Yeast is a single-celled fungus that ferments sugars for energy, producing beneficial compounds in the process. In dog nutrition, yeast provides B vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants that support skin, coat, and immune health. Certain yeast strains are also used as probiotics to promote a balanced gut microbiome and aid digestion.

Fish are aquatic, gill-bearing animals that live in fresh or salt water and serve as a rich natural source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals for dogs. In canine nutrition, fish typically refers to edible marine or freshwater species used whole, as fillets, or as processed meals and oils. The type of fish, its size, and its place in the ocean food chain influence its nutritional value, safety, and sustainability. When responsibly sourced, fish offers dogs a highly digestible protein and a sustainable way to support skin, joint, brain, and heart health.

Shellfish are nutrient-rich marine animals, including mussels, clams, and other species with hard outer shells, providing high-quality protein and essential fats.

Seeds and nuts are nutrient-dense, plant-derived food sources high in healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins such as vitamin E and magnesium.

The fruiting body is the reproductive part of plants.

Green/ woody parts of plants include leaves, stems, and grasses, which are fibrous.

Resins are naturally occurring plant exudates with bioactive compounds that serve various roles, particularly in medicinal and aromatic uses.

Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of certain fungi, valued in nutrition for their bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans and antioxidants. They are commonly used as supplements for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mammals are warm-blooded vertebrates distinguished by having hair or fur and nursing their young with milk produced by mammary glands. In the context of canine diets, mammals are a natural prey source for wild canines, providing highly bioavailable proteins, fats, and essential nutrients that support a dog’s biological needs.

Birds are warm-blooded animals with feathers, wings, and beaks, laying eggs as part of their life cycle. In the context of canine diets, birds are a natural source of protein and nutrients, reflecting the prey dogs' ancestors consumed in the wild.

Roots and rhizomes are underground plant structures that store nutrients like carbohydrates and fiber. Common examples include sweet potatoes, turmeric, and ginger. They are used in nutrition for their role in providing energy, supporting digestion, and offering compounds with antioxidant or anti-inflammatory benefits.

Seaweeds are large, multicellular marine algae used in dog nutrition primarily as sources of minerals and other naturally occurring marine compounds.

Microalgae are microscopic marine organisms that produce the foundational compounds of ocean ecosystems and are used in dog foods and supplements as controlled sources of marine-derived ingredients.