Ingredients - In Depth
YOUR DOG WANTS TO EAT IT BECAUSE WE ONLY USE
FRESH AND REAL NUTRITIOUS INGREDIENTS.
Responsibly sourced ingredients
PROTEINS already in NDF prior to the addition of fresh meat
LIVER:
Liver is full of vitamins and minerals and that is why NDF products have this wonder food in their formulations.
Liver is particularly high in B vitamins and some minerals, which are not found in other foods.
Pork Liver is nature’s most abundant source of Vitamin A and selenium in the most bioavailable form for carnivores. Liver is an excellent source of protein, all the B vitamins, and iron. Liver is very high in copper, an important nutrient that can be low in home made diets.
EGGS:
Complete in protein and containing lecithin and choline, many of the B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus and selenium, eggs are a wonderful food to use. Egg yolk is high in Vitamin A. Lecithin and choline help to break up the (LDL's) or Low Density Lipoproteins - the bad part of cholesterol, and help clean up the arteries.
Eggs contain the sulfur amino acids Cysteine, Cystine, and Methionine, needed for cell and tissue regeneration. We have noticed that German Shepherds, Labradors, Boxers, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers and Pembroke Welsh Corgis seem to need slightly more Sulfur Amino Acids than other breeds, making NDF products a great choice of foods for these breeds.
FATS AND OILS:
NDF products use cold pressed Safflower Oil (Omega 6),
which is necessary for the health of skin and coat.
This oil has one of the highest linoleic acid contents, 76% to corn oil's 10%, and has the least chance of causing an allergic reaction.
While most brands of Safflower Oil have been genetically altered, ours is not and therefore, contains the necessary linoleic acid to produce a wonderful
Cod Liver Oil - (Omega 3) is primarily used to provide vitamins A and D. Vitamin D helps to regulate calcium in the body and is necessary for calcification of the bones during growth and the formation of teeth. Vitamin D also helps increase the absorption of calcium from the gastrointestinal tract and other parts of the body. Functioning more like a hormone than a vitamin, D works together with the parathyroid gland and works with the calcium sources in NDF production to maintain the correct mineral balance.
With omega 3, 6 and 9, These oils are powerful antioxidants with antifungal and antioxidant properties for your dog. Helps with mobility and keeping joints functioning well and Improves coat condition and helps promote healthy skin.
Coconut oil is in Rescue because of its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It consists of more than 90% saturated fats. The fats in coconut oil are considered “conditionally essential,” meaning that under certain circumstances (such as during pregnancy and early growth) they are essential. All fats and oils are composed of triglycerides. Coconut oil is composed primarily of Medium Chain Triglycerides. Coconut oil contains 64% Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs). Breaking it down further, the MCFAs in coconut oil are made up of 48% lauric acid, 8% caprylic acid and 7% capric acid, plus myristic and palmitic acids. Coconut oil also contains about 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids). Most of coconut oil’s health benefits come from the MCFAs, especially lauric acid.
Lauric acid has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are best known for their antifungal effects. In addition, the body can efficiently metabolize MCFAs to provide an immediate source of fuel and energy, enhancing athletic performance and aiding weight loss. In dogs, the MCFAs in coconut oil balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic.
Flaxseed is an extremely healthy food because they are loaded with essential fatty acids like omega-3. Flaxseed is also full of dietary fiber, protein, manganese, and lignans. It is thought that dogs that suffer from autoimmune, allergic, or inflammatory health conditions may benefit from increasing omega-3 fatty acid levels. Flax is added to help support a healthy coat and hair, joints, immune system, kidneys, improve the health of dogs with adrenal issues, and healthy digestion.
Flaxseed oil is high in alpha linolenic omega-3s, which puts it in the same ballpark as wild fish when it comes to boosting heart health. Like many of the other healthy oils, flaxseed oil also helps with mobility for arthritic dogs, and can aid in blood pressure and kidney function.
Safflower Oil Provides a source of omega-6 fatty acids, GLA and linoleic acid (LA). These polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are recognized for their nutritional role in pet care for proper growth, healthy metabolism, immune system support, and the maintenance of healthy skin and coat. While it is an excellent source of GLA, safflower oil has the added benefit of containing LA to help meet the recommended minimum dietary requirements for a healthy pet. Safflower oil may also have anti-inflammatory properties.
According to a study in Clinical Nutrition, Safflower oil and unsaturated fatty acids in safflower oil improved markers of inflammation. This may help with several conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Along with Omega-3, Omega-6 Fatty Acids are a crucial ingredient for a healthy pup, specifically a healthy pup with clear skin and a shiny coat.
Coconut Meal is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps to lubricate joints. Also, it contains valuable fatty acids and fights viral, bacterial, and fungal infections that contribute to arthritis pain. Coconut oil can also give your dog an energy boost that can help with moderate exercise to keep up muscle and fight obesity. Coconut meal is high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats and is free from wheat and other grains. It is also low in sugar, digestible carbohydrates and calories, and has a low score on the glycemic index.
1. Aids in Metabolism
Some of the many health benefits of coconut meal nutrition include its high levels of healthy saturated fats in the form of medium chain fatty acids (MCFA). These are used by the body for energy and help to support a healthy metabolism, balanced blood sugar levels, and more.
2. High in Fiber
Coconut meat itself supplies an impressive 61% dietary fiber! And because fiber essentially cannot be absorbed by the body, some of the calories and carbohydrates found in coconut meal aren’t even absorbed and used, but rather they move right through the digestive tract helping to take toxins and waste along with them.
3. Helps Maintain a Healthy Blood Sugar Level
Coconut meal is a low glycemic food and does not spike blood sugar levels. In fact studies show that consuming products that contain coconut meal can help to lower the overall glycemic impact of the food and to support stable blood sugar levels. This means that coconut meal nutrition has health benefits for dogs with diabetes and who are working towards reaching a healthy weight too.
4. Helps Digestive Health
Coconut meal also helps with healthy digestion, has a high nutrient density, and can aid in heart health too. Studies have shown that coconut meal has the ability to help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and serum triglycerides in people who have raised cholesterol levels. Coconut meal has this positive effect because of its high supply of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber plus its healthy MUFA fat content.
CARBOHYDRATES:
NDF products use less than 25% of grains in their total make up. Flaked oats are 75% of the cereal used in NDF and 25% comes from buckwheat groats (a non-grain seed, and gluten free), a combination of which seems to agree with most dogs. Carbohydrates are the main source of blood glucose that fuels all the body's cells and the only source of energy for the brain and red blood cells.
Thyroid function is also dependent upon the correct amount of carbohydrates in your dog's diet. Vitamin B complex, found in some grains and starch producing vegetables is needed so that the amino acids (protein) phenyalanine and tyrosine can produce T3.
Oats
A warming grain that calms the nervous and reproductive systems, strengthens the spleen, pancreas and immune system, as well as the heart muscle. Rich in silicon, oats help make bones strong. Acidic and not very allergenic, they are tolerated best by the largest number of dogs. We ensure the use of non-GMO oats.
Buckwheat
An alkaline seed with a sweet flavor. It cleanses the intestines and improves appetite. Buckwheat contains rutin, a bioflavonoid, which helps to strengthen capillaries and blood vessels and inhibits hemorrhaging. It, too, is tolerated well by the majority of dogs.
Wheat Germ
Source of Vitamin E, most of the B-complex vitamins. Contains calcium/phosphorus/magnesium, as well as trace minerals.
Tapioca
is made from cassava tubers. Tapioca is a hypoallergenic carbohydrate used in very small quantity to add a bit of fiber to the diet. Tapioca is free of common allergens. Tapioca is gluten-free, nut-free, and grain-free. Tapioca is cholesterol-free, has dietary fiber, is easy to digest, supports weight gain, is a source of calcium, low in sodium, is a source of folate, manganese and iron. Helps to make the dog feel full.
VEGETABLES:
Zucchini
contains zero fat, and is high in water and fiber. It also contains significant amounts of vitamins B6, riboflavin, folate, C, and K, and minerals, like potassium and manganese. Zucchini benefits include: improved digestion, slows down aging, lowers blood sugar levels, supports healthy circulation and heart health, improves eye health, boosts energy, maintenance of healthy weight, improves thyroid and adrenal functions, protects against oxidation and inflammation.
Broccoli
is packed With vitamins, minerals and bioactive Compounds, contains potent antioxidants that offer health-protective effects, bioactive compounds may contribute to reduced inflammation, may protect against certain types of cancer, antioxidants and fiber may aid blood sugar control. Broccoli is a great source of vitamin K and C, a good source of folate (folic acid) and also provides potassium, fiber. Vitamin C builds collagen, which forms body tissue and bone, and helps cuts and wounds heal. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and protects the body from damaging free radicals.
Note - Eating broccoli may lower blood sugar and improve diabetic control. This is likely related to its antioxidant and fiber content.
Squash
is a fruit high in vitamins A, B6, and C, folate, magnesium, fiber, riboflavin, phosphorus, and potassium. That's a serious nutritional power-packed veggie. Yellow squash is also rich in manganese. This mineral helps to boost bone strength and helps the body's ability to process fats and carbohydrates. Squash has a very rich nutritional profile that consists of various organic compounds, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which are responsible for providing all its impressive health benefits. This list includes a huge amount of vitamin A, as well as significant amounts of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, and folate. In terms of minerals, squash contains magnesium, potassium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, calcium, and iron. It is also a very good source of carotenoids and other important anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Squash boosts immunity, manages diabetes, has an anti-inflammatory capacity, prevents infections, improves lung health, protects heart health, regulates blood circulation, improves vision and strengthen bones.
Pumpkin
is highly nutritious and particularly rich in vitamin A, high antioxidant content may reduce your risk of chronic diseases, packs vitamins that may boost immunity, vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin may protect your dog’s eyesight, contains compounds that promote healthy skin, nutrient density and low calorie count may promote weight loss, antioxidant content may lower your risk of cancer and potassium, vitamin C and fiber may benefit heart health.
Beets
are packed with essential vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, some of which have medicinal properties. They have essential nutrients and are a great source of fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Beetroot and beetroot juice have been associated with numerous health benefits, including improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and increased exercise performance. Beets have Many Nutrients in Few Calories, Help Keep Blood Pressure in Check, Can improve athletic performance *,Help Fight Inflammation, Improve Digestive Health, Support Brain Health, Have Some Anti-Cancer Properties.
*Several studies suggest that dietary nitrates may enhance athletic performance. Nitrates appear to affect physical performance by improving the efficiency of mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy in your cells.
Asparagus
is a nutrient-packed vegetable. It is a very good source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as chromium, a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells. That's good news if you're watching your dog's blood sugar.This herbaceous plant-is a particularly rich source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful compounds like free radicals. This is why eating asparagus may help protect against and fight certain forms of cancer, such as bone, breast, colon, larynx and lung cancers.It's one of the top ranked fruits and vegetables for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. This may help slow the aging process and reduce inflammation. Quercetin found in large quantities in asparagus is one of the best-researched flavonoids in nutrition, and its intake has been linked to a reduced risk of numerous cardiovascular diseases as well as other chronic health problems. A unique group of phytonutrients called steroidal saponins has long been of special interest in asparagus. Because these saponins contain a steroid (fat-soluble) component and a sugar (water-soluble) component, they can have unique impacts throughout the body, including in the function of cell membranes and numerous aspects of the immune response.
Research in this area is largely still limited to studies on mice and rats, but the ability of asparagus extracts to inhibit the production of certain inflammation system signaling molecules (cytokines) including IL-6 (interleukin-6) and TNF (tumor necrosis factor) is helping to explain how asparagus extracts might be able to help reduce excessive inflammatory processes.
Another anti-aging property of this delicious spring veggie is that it may help our brains fight cognitive decline. Like leafy greens, asparagus delivers folate, which works with vitamin B12-found in fish, poultry, meat, and dairy-to help prevent cognitive impairment. In a study from Tufts University, older adults with healthy levels of folate and B12 performed better on a test of response speed and mental flexibility. It contains high levels of the amino acid asparagine, which serves as a natural diuretic, and increased urination not only releases fluid but helps rid the body of excess salts. This is especially beneficial for dogs who suffer from edema (an accumulation of fluids in the body's tissues) and those who have high blood pressure or other heart-related diseases.
HERBS:
Herbs act as a bridge between nutrition and physical wellness.
Full of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates and fat, herbs play an important part in the diet.
NDF products supply herbs that stimulate various organ systems in the body during different seasons of the year.
Parsley
high in protein, also contains vitamins A, C, B & K, fiber, calcium, riboflavin, potassium, iron, magnesium, niacin and phosphorus. Used in NDF to support the kidneys and bladder, it is also used in treating arthritis. Protects the digestive tract from forming gas. Dehydrated parsley differs in color from batch to batch and different times of the years. Sometimes it is bright green and gives a tinge to the color of the overall food. This is normal.
Alfalfa
high in protein, vitamin and minerals, alfalfa acts as an anti-inflammatory, supports the musculoskeletal system, digestive tract and the liver. With its high Vitamin K content, together with chlorophyll that serves as an antioxidant, alfalfa is highly nutritious.
- contains antioxidants, phenolic acids, quercetin and luteolin
- blood purifier, detoxifies heavy metals
- lymphatic cleanser and strengthener
- natural diuretic
- good source of phosphorus, calcium, iron and copper
- improves arthritis, hair loss and dandruff
- heals the skin
- defends against diabetes
- contains B-6, manganese, magnesium, potassium, folate and vitamin C
- helps to treat enlarged spleen
- treats lung and stomach meridians
- burrs on burdock were the inspiration for Velcro
Dandelion
A diuretic that stimulates the liver, salivation, improves digestion, also acts as a tonic to the gall bladder, liver and the gastrointestinal tract.
Garlic
Nature's antibiotic, garlic contains a wealth of vitamins, minerals and oils, as well as protein and fat. Garlic is used in our food to kill internal parasites. It is most effective in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. The smell of garlic excreted through the skin often makes your dog unpalatable to fleas. The oil of garlic has been used to clear up cases of ringworm, skin parasites, some warts and tumors of the skin.
Yucca
Anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, high in vitamins and minerals, it contains saponins, which make absorption of food through the small intestine more efficient. Cuts down on odor from urine and feces.
Rosemary
Powerful anti-oxidant, anti-depressant, an overall stimulant, rosemary helps to expel intestinal gas. It is a natural insect repellent, it stimulates the nervous system, digestive tract, circulatory system, respiratory system and the skin.
Ginger
Stimulates digestion in the stomach and aids in treating indigestion. Helps to prevent motion sickness, reduces fever, internal gas and bloating.
Oregano
is high in antioxidants and flavonoids and is reported as an antimicrobial. This non-toxic herb has been used to help with digestive problems, diarrhea, gas and antifungal properties. Oregano is an herb often referred to as the “cure in the cupboard.” It’s a source of calcium, fiber, iron, manganese, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C and K. It also contains the volatile oils thymol and carvacrol, which inhibit the growth of bacteria. Oregano contains more antioxidant power than apples and blueberries!
Milk Thistle
has been added because it specifically protects the liver against toxins (including some drugs and heavy metals), activates protein synthesis, and stimulates the growth of new liver cells to replace those that are dead or damaged. Milk thistle also has strong antioxidant (destroys oxygen free radicals) and anti-inflammatory actions.
Boswellia serrata
has long been used in traditional medicines. Boswellia serrata has beneficial effects in pain conditions by inhibiting the production of a specific type of leukotriene, which modulates the immune response to inflammation. The compounds in Boswellia decrease glycosaminoglycan degradation and inhibit mediators of autoimmune disorders, slowing the progression of cartilage damage in arthritic joints.
VITAMINS:
Vitamins are essential to life and they contribute to good health by regulating the metabolism.
Essential to the break down and utilization of protein, vitamins are part of a chemical process
in the body that releases nutrients from ingested food and provides energy.
Some vitamins are fat soluble - Vitamins A, D, E and K, and others, Vitamin B, C are water-soluble.
Vitamins that are fat soluble are stored by the body in fatty tissue and the liver.
Water-soluble vitamins are excreted daily and cannot be stored.
Both types of vitamins are needed for a healthy body.
Destruction of Vitamins
NDF uses a cold dehydration process so all vitamins and minerals are available upon ingestion. They are primarily supplied through the whole, natural foods from which these foods are made. However, allowing for decreased level of vitamins during transportation and storage, we add a very small amount of a vitamin/mineral mix to cover the short fall.
Temperatures over 118 degrees destroy many vitamins. Commercial dog food (kibble or canned) is heat processed using temperatures well above this. If care is not taken to compensate for these losses, food that is deficient in vitamins is produced.
Vitamins B and C are water-soluble, passing through the body within 4-8 hours after ingestion. Water-soluble vitamins need to be fed twice a day to keep the balance steady in the body. This is one of the reasons we suggest feeding the dog twice a day. Dogs that work long hours, dogs that are shown, old dogs and those used for breeding have a greater need for vitamins than do pet dogs not exposed to stressful situations. Dogs that live outside and those that get little human attention, require more B and C vitamins. NDF products are formulated to accommodate these needs.
May vitamins are affected by oxygen, heat and light and some are destroyed by the improper storage of food. It is for this reason we suggest that NDF products, once opened, be refrigerated and if bought in bulk, frozen until needed.
OTHER INGREDIENTS USED IN NDF PRODUCTS:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bacillus subtilis, bifidobacterium thermophilum, bifidobacterium longum,
and enterococcus faecalis are all probiotics, that are beneficial bacteria normally produced by the intestinal tract.
They create an environment that is undesirable for such things as fungi and microbes to grow.
Containing a weak antibiotic substance called colicine, these probiotics help to prevent bad breath.
They aid in digesting B-complex vitamins, some amino acids, fat and milk.
Used to overcome yeast and fungus infections and to improve the functioning of the whole intestinal tract,
including decreasing the amount of intestinal gas and inflammation.
Offers protection from salmonella contamination of food or water supplies when traveling to different areas.
Brewers Yeast
Some comes from hops that are used in the brewing industry and some is grown on molasses. NDF uses this ingredient to provide extra B vitamins, as well as protein, trace minerals and salts.
Brewers Yeast is one of the few natural sources of chromium and selenium. Helps to repel fleas. Some dogs showing allergies to Brewers Yeast actually have a deficiency of the Amino Acid Lysine. NDF, when raw meat is added, provides adequate quantities of Lysine. Few, if any, "allergies" to Brewers Yeast have been experienced by pets using our diets.
Kelp
Provides iodine that is needed for correct functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid influences overall health, metabolism, skin and coat plus behavior. Kelp contains some protein, it is rich in iodine, calcium and potassium, as well as some B vitamins. Kelp also contains vitamins A, E, B, and D, as well as mannitol, a gentle purgative and bile stimulant; small amounts of lecithin, a phosphorus compound thought to be of great importance in the knitting of broken bones, especially in the aged, and some carotin (precursor to Vitamin A). It is credited with providing good pigmentation, healthy skin and hair coat, as well as promoting proper thyroid function.
Black Strap Molasses
NDF products use this form of sugar free molasses for its high potassium content. It also contains minerals and some B-complex vitamins. Old time breeders used molasses together with seaweed or kelp in their dog's diet to keep dark pigmentation of the nose, eye rims and mouth.
Apple Cider Vinegar
"An apple a day keeps the doctor away" seems to have some veracity. Apples contain a large amount of potassium plus phosphorus, chlorine, sodium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, iron, fluorine, silicon, and many trace minerals. In long term studies done in Vermont with herds of cows, benefits have been observed. Lack of mastitis, itchy skin, influenza, respiratory diseases, easier freshening (whelping), lack of eclampsia and cramping after delivery of calves. Horses with ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar) in their feed raced much better and never came down with Distemper, even when exposed. ACV is credited with killing bacteria outright, and, in fact, was used in the old days to prevent food poisoning. ACV has been credited with curing chronic itching, as well as pyelitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the kidney.
Antioxidants
Vitamins A, C, D, E and Selenium are all antioxidants. Contained in the ingredients of NDF products, these special nutrients protect the body from invasion of pirate cells, called free radicals, that come mainly from rancid fat. Deficiencies of antioxidants are thought to be contributing factors to cancer, weak hind-quarters, muscular wasting, premature aging, respiratory diseases, autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, chronic ear conditions, gum disease, colitis, and some heart problems.
Diatomaceous Earth
is the remains of millions of single celled algae called diatoms. When diatoms die, their shells end up on the bottom of the sea or lakes and fossilize into a chalky-like substance. Approved by the FDA for internal and external use, the spiky external edges of the shells pierce parasites' protective coating and then they dry out and die. It keeps the intestinal tract free of worms.
Sunflower Seeds
have been added to promote healthy skin, immune function, heart health, providing energy, preserving normal organ function. Sunflower seeds contain high levels of essential fatty acids, the full profile of amino acids needed to form complete and digestible protein, plus vitamins A, B, C and E and the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, selenium and manganese.They also contain protein, iron and phosphorus and are low in carbohydrates.
PRESERVATIVES:
Fermented Plum
is a part of the natural preservatives ingredients in the food along with providing antioxidant properties for the dog nutritionally.
NDF products do not contain chemical preservatives. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), rosemary and Vitamin E are natural preservatives. The food is manufactured several times a month and is packaged in simple, recycled multi-layered paper bags that, once opened, should be refrigerated.
NDF products depend upon all the above ingredients working together (synergy). These ingredients have been used successfully on many, many different breeds and kinds of dogs from Europe, North America, Asia and South America for close to 40 years. Very simple in its form, it produces dogs that enjoy long and healthy lives.
TESTING
Before our products are mixed together at the factory, each individual ingredient from our suppliers must have a certificate that it is free from bacteria, mold and fungus. After the food is mixed together, it is sent to a laboratory for further testing of bacteria, mold and fungus before it is bagged. We believe that Volhard Dog Nutrition is unique in the industry for these safeguards.
