NUTRITION
At Nook On Lyne Labradors
Nook On Lyne Pure Bred Labrador Breeders in Cumbria

Canine Nutrition Therapy - Gently Cooked and Raw Homemade Diets

We have successfully completed the ONLY officially Ofqual Regulated Level 3 Diploma in Canine Nutrition in the UK and Internationally together with an intensive 6 month Mentorship in Canine Nutrition with leading specialists. 

As a qualified and insured Canine Nutrition Consultant we believe that a balanced fresh food diet is the key to a happy and healthy dog. 

We work with owners providing nutritional advice for their growing puppy or dog. We formulate fresh food diets for dogs either gently cooked or raw using the incredible Animal Diet Formulation software in line with FEDIAF & AAFCO guidelines to help pet guardians throughout the UK & globally. 

The ADF software is an incredible tool in helping formulate complete and balanced recipes. Steve Brown is the original creator of ADF, a nutritional researcher, the author of two of the best selling books on canine nutrition, a frequent speaker at veterinary and dog-health related conferences and a highly respected voice in the field of pet nutrition.  

Whether you choose gently cooked or raw it is possible to tailor a diet to meet your individual dog’s dietary needs in order to address any health conditions or concerns for example itching, gastrointestinal issues, weight loss, kidney disease etc by selecting functional foods that are rich in chemical compounds and provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

We are Associate Members with 2 incredible Associations the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies CIVT www.civtedu.com and the International Association for Animal Therapists IAAT www.iaat.org.uk 

 

 

 

 



 
Nook On Lyne Cumbrian Labrador Breeders

National Library of Medicine

In a recent paper in the National Library of Medicine titled Homemade Diet as a Paramount for Dogs’ Health: A Descriptive Analysis it was concluded that:

“The personalised food plans considering the individual preferences and medical conditions of the animals, as well as the careful selection of functional ingredients and fresh foods concerning sources that might be allergenic, contributed to the success of the homemade diet regimen. Incorporating essential vitamin–mineral supplements and pathology-specific nutraceutical feeds supported the nutritional needs of dogs with underlying pathologies.

The customisation of the homemade diet by the nutritionist significantly improved the overall health of the dogs, both healthy and pathological, confirming the importance of a homemade cooked diet as a valuable tool in veterinary practice.”

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11435771/

 

 
Health tested Labrador puppies in Cumbria

FEDIAF & AAFCO Guidelines

Studies show when pet owners feed just 20% fresh food to your dog as part of a regular dry dog food diet, there's a significant decrease in disease and illness. So even if you are feeding kibble you can make this small adjustment to your dog's meals to create a tasty fresh food topper and have a healthier and happier dog.

Whether you want to feed 20% fresh or 100% fresh then you will need to ensure it is balanced to meet FEDIAF or AAFCO guidelines and not deficient or in excess in nutrients. Whatever you decide I can formulate a diet specifically designed for your dog incorporating functional foods using Animal Diet Formulation software. 

 





 


Health tested Labrador puppies in Cumbria

Puppy Nutrition

Feeding a puppy fresh food either gently cooked or raw can offer numerous benefits for their growth and development, including enhanced digestion, better nutrient absorption, and improved overall health. Unlike heavily processed kibble, these type of foods uses whole, high-quality ingredients with minimal or no heat, preserving more of their natural goodness. 

Health and nutrient benefits of a fresh food diet for a puppy

  • Optimal nutrient absorption and bioavailability. Gentle cooking at low temperatures or no cooking helps to break down proteins and starches, making them easier for a puppy to digest and absorb. The process retains natural enzymes and more of the ingredients' nutritional value, ensuring they get the most from every meal.   
  • Improved digestion. The high moisture and natural fibre from whole fruits and vegetables found in fresh foods can be easier on a puppy's digestive system. This can lead to more consistent bowel movements and better overall gut health, which is especially beneficial for puppies with sensitive stomachs.
  • Healthier skin and coat. Fresh diets rich in high-quality protein and essential fatty acids, such as omega-3s, help nourish the skin and promote a glossy, soft coat. Many owners report reduced shedding and less skin irritation after switching to a fresh food diet.
  • Better hydration. Fresh food has a much higher moisture content compared to dry kibble. This extra hydration helps support kidney function and overall organ health, even for puppies who don't drink a lot of water.
  • Supports a healthy immune system. The preservation of natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants  helps to build a stronger immune system for long-term health and disease prevention. Feeding a puppy fresh food can benefit their microbiome by increasing gut diversity and improving digestion. The process and ingredients in fresh food support a more diverse and balanced microbial community in the gut which is vital for a puppy's development. 
  • Increased palatability. The real, fresh ingredients in gently cooked food have a more appetizing aroma, flavor, and texture for dogs. This can be especially helpful for picky eaters or for encouraging a healthy appetite.
  • Ingredient transparency. The owners peace of mind, knowing they are feeding their puppy real, whole foods without artificial additives, fillers, or preservatives.
  • Easier weight management. Fresh food diets are nutrient-dense, helping puppies feel full and satisfied with appropriate portion sizes. This can help prevent overeating and support a healthy weight as they grow. 

 How to approach a fresh diet for a puppy

If you are considering a fresh, gently cooked or raw diet for your puppy please get in contact with me to discuss your options