What is Dietary Fibre?

A happy dog eagerly eating a bowl of fresh, high-fibre food containing vegetables.

Dietary fibre, also called roughage, is the indigestible portion of plant-based foods. That doesn't mean it's useless -- in fact, it plays several crucial roles in digestion.

Fibre:

• Adds bulk to stools, helping them form properly.
• Promotes smooth movement of food through the intestines.
• Prevents constipation and diarrhoea.
• Ensures efficient elimination of waste from the body.

1. Soluble Fibre

As the name suggests, soluble fibre dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance. This softens stools and prevents constipation, making it especially helpful for dogs with indigestion.

Sources of soluble fibre include:

• Seaweed
• Whole grains (oats, barley, brown rice)
• Legumes and pulses
• Fruits (apples, oranges, pears)

2. Insoluble Fibre

Unlike soluble fibre, insoluble fibre does not dissolve in water. Instead, it absorbs water, adds bulk to stools, and stimulates intestinal contractions. This helps regulate bowel movements and can be useful for dogs with diarrhoea or difficulty passing stools.

Sources of insoluble fibre include:

• Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, green beans)
• Whole grains (wheat bran, brown rice)
• Seeds and nuts

What are the Benefits of Dietary Fibre?

For optimal digestive health, dogs need a balance of both soluble and insoluble fibre. Here are the major benefits:

• Lowers Cholesterol
  Like in humans, soluble fibre can bind cholesterol in the intestines and prevent absorption into the blood, lowering the risk of heart disease.
• Increases Satiety
  If your dog often seems hungry soon after meals, fibre can help. Because it increases stomach volume, fibre makes dogs feel fuller and reduces overeating.
• Prevents Obesity
  A high-fibre diet not only promotes fullness but also requires more energy to digest, leading to fewer calories absorbed. Soluble fibre also helps stabilize blood sugar, reducing fat storage.
• Stabilizes Blood Sugar (Helpful for Diabetic Dogs)
  Soluble fibre slows the absorption of glucose, keeping blood sugar levels more stable and aiding diabetes management.
• Supports Digestive Health
  Fibre regulates bowel movements, prevents constipation and diarrhoea, and keeps the digestive tract functioning smoothly.
• Nourishes Gut Flora
  Fibre acts as "prebiotics," feeding beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut flora supports immunity, nutrient absorption, and even emotional balance.

Practical Tips to Increase Your Furkid's Fibre Intake

• Recommended Daily Intake
  Most dogs need about 2-4 g of fibre per day, though requirements vary with age, size, and health. Always consult your veterinarian for tailored guidance.
• Introduce Fibre Gradually
  If your dog is used to a low-fibre diet, add new foods slowly to avoid digestive upset. Start with small amounts, then increase gradually.
• Choose Raw Fruits and Vegetables
  While cooked vegetables still contain fibre, raw fruits and vegetables provide more. Wash thoroughly and remove inedible parts before feeding.
• Consult Your Veterinarian
  If your dog has health issues or is on medication, professional guidance is especially important before making dietary changes.

Are Vegetable Fibres Really Suitable for Dogs?

Although a high-fibre diet has great benefits, some furkid owners may still worry. After all, it is generally believed that dogs are best suited to a meat-based diet.

However, dogs are omnivores, meaning they can obtain nutrients from both plant and animal-based foods. Experts point out that a balanced plant-based diet can provide dogs with enough fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Of course, the most important thing is to ensure that the dog's diet is nutritionally balanced, including the required protein and fat. Before changing your furkid's eating habits, you must first consult a veterinarian.