Daytime Dog Snacks

Insect protein, especially black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), is increasingly used in dog foods as a sustainable, novel protein source. Controlled feeding studies in dogs show that diets using BSFL is well accepted and has good nutrient digestibility and safety profiles. Insect protein is also an excellent protein source for dogs and cats allergic to common meat sources. Jian et al., 2022

Apple (Malus domestica) is a natural source of pectin, a soluble fiber known for its role in supporting digestive health. Pectin forms a gel-like structure in the gut, which helps regulate intestinal transit and contributes to normal stool consistency.

As a fermentable fiber, pectin serves as a substrate for beneficial gut bacteria. This supports a balanced microbiome, which plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.

The gut and nervous system are closely connected through the gut–brain axis. Supporting a stable gut environment can therefore contribute to overall wellbeing and a more balanced response to everyday stressors. This makes pectin relevant not only for digestive support but also as part of a broader approach to maintaining calm and comfort in sensitive animals (Wikiera, 2014; Zaitseva, 2020).

Apple pulp is a fiber-rich ingredient derived from apples (Malus domestica) after juice extraction. It contains soluble and insoluble fibers, including pectin, which contribute to maintaining normal digestive function and supporting a balanced intestinal environment.

Dietary fibers such as pectin can help support beneficial microbial activity in the hindgut, which plays an important role in equine digestion. A balanced hindgut microbiome supports nutrient absorption and overall digestive stability.

Because of its natural fiber content and palatability, apple pulp is often included in equine nutrition to complement forage-based diets and support digestive wellbeing while contributing to overall nutritional balance.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a natural ingredient that provides a range of vitamins and minerals important for overall health. It contains nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, which contribute to normal physiological processes in the body.

These nutrients play a role in maintaining cellular function, supporting the immune system, and contributing to normal muscle and nerve activity. Potassium and magnesium, for example, are involved in fluid balance and muscle function, while vitamin C supports antioxidant processes.

By supplying essential micronutrients, potato contributes to maintaining overall wellbeing and supports the body’s daily nutritional needs.

Burdock root (Arctium lappa) is a botanical ingredient traditionally used in herbal nutrition for its role in supporting skin health and metabolic balance. It contains naturally occurring compounds such as polyphenols and inulin-type fibers.

These compounds have been studied for their involvement in normal metabolic processes and their interaction with the body’s natural detoxification pathways. Supporting these processes contributes to maintaining healthy skin and overall physiological balance.

In addition, burdock root is associated with supporting circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues, which is important for maintaining skin condition and coat quality (Kuhn & Winston, 2015; Pomari et. al., 2013)

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a plant rich in bioactive compounds such as isoflavones and flavonoids. These compounds have been studied for their antioxidant properties and their role in supporting normal circulation.

Healthy circulation is important for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Proper nutrient delivery supports skin renewal processes and contributes to maintaining a healthy coat condition.

Through its antioxidant and circulation-supporting properties, red clover contributes to maintaining skin health and overall tissue balance (Verhelst, 2025).

Calendula can be used orally as supportive nutrition thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant plant compounds. While calendula is best supported for topical skin use andwound-healingin preclinical models, oral use is positioned as gentle,general supportrather than a proven solution for pet skin conditions. Ejiohuo et al. 2024

Wild pansy (Viola tricolor) is a botanical traditionally used in herbal nutrition for supporting skin health. It contains flavonoids and other plant compounds that have been studied for their role in maintaining normal skin function (Verhelst, 2025).

Skin health depends on proper cell renewal and a well-functioning skin barrier. Botanical ingredients that support these processes can contribute to maintaining skin comfort and overall skin condition.

Wild pansy is often associated with supporting skin clarity and resilience, making it a suitable ingredient in formulations aimed at maintaining a healthy coat and skin balance.

Paprika extract (Capsicum annuum) is rich in natural pigments called carotenoids, including compounds such as capsanthin and beta-carotene. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties and their role in protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Carotenoids also play a role in maintaining normal visual function. They contribute to the health of the eyes by supporting light-sensitive processes and protecting eye tissues from oxidative damage.

In addition, paprika enhances the palatability of snacks by adding natural flavor and color, making it a functional and appealing ingredient in daily nutrition (Verhelst, 2025).

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions throughout the body. It plays a key role in cellular metabolism, immune function, and tissue maintenance.

In the skin, zinc contributes to normal cell turnover and supports the structural integrity of skin tissues. Adequate zinc intake is therefore important for maintaining healthy skin and coat condition.(Schwartz et. al., 2006; Glutsch et. al., 2019).

Zinc is also involved in immune system activity and antioxidant defense mechanisms that help protect tissues from oxidative stress. Because of these roles, zinc is commonly included in pet nutrition to support immune balance, skin health, and overall physiological function (Animals, 2021).