When choosing the best food for your dog, digestibility is one of the most important factors to consider. Digestibility refers to how well your dog can break down and absorb nutrients from their food. The better the digestibility, the more nutrients your dog gets from each meal—and the less waste they produce.
In simple terms: smaller, well-formed stools usually indicate higher digestibility and more effective nutrient absorption.
What Affects Digestibility?
Digestibility isn’t just about the food itself. It’s influenced by individual factors and environmental factors.
Individual factors include:
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Age
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Physiological state of the digestive system
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Amount of digestive enzymes and gut microflora
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Mental state or stress
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Food allergies or sensitivities
Environmental factors include:
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The ingredients used in the food
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Nutrient content and balance
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How the food is processed, including heat treatment
Why Digestibility Isn’t Always Listed on Labels
Unlike protein or fat content, digestibility isn’t legally required on pet food labels. Each manufacturer may measure digestibility differently, which is why the information is often not included. However, most brands provide helplines or resources for pet owners who want more details about how their food performs.
How to Choose Highly Digestible Dog Food
When reading a label, keep these key factors in mind:
1. Ingredients
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Look for high-quality animal proteins like fresh or lightly dried meat.
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Heat processing can reduce protein digestibility, so low-temperature methods are preferable.
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WholePrey proportions, like those in ORIJEN and ACANA, provide meat, organs, and bones for balanced nutrition.
2. Fat Content
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Fat is highly digestible and an excellent energy source.
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Too much fat can slow digestion, so balance is key.
3. Fibre Content
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Fibre comes from vegetables and fruits and supports healthy digestion.
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The right amount helps nutrient absorption and prevents digestive upset.
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Too much non-fermentable fibre can reduce digestibility and lead to larger stools.
Digestibility of Biologically Appropriate Foods
Biologically Appropriate foods, like ORIJEN and ACANA, use fresh, raw, and high-quality ingredients. Thanks to low-temperature extrusion and steam injection processing, these recipes retain maximum nutritional value. WholePrey ratios ensure your dog receives meat, organs, and bones naturally, just as evolution intended.
Here’s a snapshot of digestibility for selected formulas:
| Formula | Protein Stability | Fat Stability | General Stability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORIJEN Original | 89.1% | 94.8% | 84.3% |
| ACANA Prairie Poultry | 87.2% | 95.2% | 86.2% |
| ACANA Pacifica | 86.9% | 95.9% | 83.8% |
For comparison, raw chicken meat has a digestibility of 76%, showing just how efficiently Biologically Appropriate foods deliver nutrition.
How to Assess Digestibility at Home
The easiest way to gauge digestibility is by observing your dog:
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Less stool usually means higher digestibility
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Dogs may digest the same food differently, so monitor how your dog responds
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Adjust portions or recipes as needed to meet your dog’s individual needs
Why Digestibility Matters
Feeding highly digestible food means your dog gets more nutrients from every meal, which supports:
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Healthy growth and development
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Lean muscle maintenance
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Optimal energy levels
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Overall wellbeing and longevity
By choosing Biologically Appropriate, high-quality food, you’re giving your dog the best chance at a happy, healthy life—inside and out.
