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How much shredded wheat?

25K views 14 replies 11 participants last post by  jeffscott947  
#1 ·
Cooper has had ongoing issues with licking around the base of his tail. Vet didn't think it was an anal gland issue since there was nothing to be expressed last time i went in. However, i've noticed that when he starts licking or seems agitated, there is a fishy smell (ick!) coming from the area. So, i'm trying to add some fiber to his diet in hopes that it will help with this gross and annoying problem. He eats natural balance bison food which is the ONLY thing I've found that agrees with his stomach, so i don't want to change foods all together.

I read that plain shredded wheat cereal is a good way to add fiber, so i picked some up at the store a couple days ago. How much should I give him? I'm assuming it would be good to start with a small amount and work up so it doesn't upset his stomach.
 
#2 ·
I would start with a small amount - say 1/4 cup and see how he reacts to it. But consider if he has reacted to any other foods with wheat in them before doing so. If the shredded wheat doesn't work for him, you could try canned pumpkin or even green beans (no salt) to add fiber to his diet.
 
#3 ·
Thanks for the suggestions. I thought about canned pumpkin, but couldn't find it at the grocery store. Maybe some stores only carry it seasonally? I didn't think about green beans, although if i recall correctly last time i give him a green bean it ended up on the floor covered with slobber..apparently doesn't meet his taste standards.
 
#7 ·
#9 ·
I'm reviving this thread to learn more about the best sources of fibre for dogs. Pumpkin? Green/string beans? Shredded wheat? Metamucil? Cost effective is obviously also important. We're using pumpkin right now but it seems neither cost effective, nor potent enough. Do they make a specific fibre supplement for dogs?
 
#10 ·
Do you have a breakfast cereal called Allbran over there? Or something similar? Our vet told us to give Chester a small handful with his breakfast and its worked wonders where all else failed. Although he cannot tolerate many grains he seems fine on this and his poohs and anal glands are no longer a problem!
 
#11 ·
I haven't heard this one before, but Summer gets oatbran with her brown rice and chicken for breakfast - it's a great source if fibre and protein! It's gooey when made up and does great in a frozen kong too!

Our vet recommended psyllium husks (1 tablespoon per meal).. But when I got to the store I picked up the oat bran instead. Whoops!
 
#15 · (Edited)
Old thread, but if interested:

Wheatgerm is also good for adding fiber. (with your vet's approval)

From the net:
"Wheatgerm is the nutrient-packed heart of wheat, which contains vitamin E, folic acid, and other vital nutrients"

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