Q&A for How to Add Fiber to a Dog's Diet

Some dogs suffer from anal gland issues if their stool isn't firm and bulky enough. If that is the case you're looking to make her stool more voluminous but maintain firmness. Any of the suggestions mentioned in the article above should do the trick.

It's not a good idea. Whilst you may get away with it, it can be tricky to get the dosage correct. Remember, the caplets are designed for people and therefore much more concentrated fiber. In addition, there's a risk of choking if the dog doesn't drink water straight after taking the caplet. Also, always read the packaging and remember that any product containing an artificial sweetener (such as Xylitol) is NOT suitable for dogs. If your can't source psyllium husk, then consider other options such as pumpkin or the fresh vegetables suggested above.

What to feed diabetic dogs is controversial, and there is no easy answer. On the whole, it's generally agreed that carbohydrates are digested more quickly and cause spikes in blood sugar level, so it seems wise to look for a food that contains slowly-digested carbohydrates, such as vegetables, legumes, fruits, and some whole grains. Ingredients such as sweet potato and brown rice are intermediately digested, and OK for most diabetics, while highly processed ingredients, such as white rice or bread, are best avoided. Protein takes longer to digest, so source a food that has a named meat (e.g. lamb, beef, or chicken) heading up the ingredient list.

You need to identify the exact chemical makeup of the stones and have the pH of the dog's urine analysed by your vet. This is because the body is a big chemistry set and processes the food to produce bladder stones. Only by knowing what the stone is made of can you feed a diet that is low in the minerals that are the building blocks of those stones, plus adjust the pH of the urine so it's a hostile environment for stone formation.