Recommended Food for Bernedoodles & Aussie Bernedoodles

Our Sires and Dams are fed a variety of foods, including Farmina N&D Prime formulas, Carna4, Steve’s Real Food (prepared and complete raw patties), and/or Identity canned formulas. Adults get fresh chicken eggs (raised here on our ranch), fresh blueberries, apples, carrots and a small amount of other seasonal veggies on different days. We add a daily probiotic and an Omega 3 oil (salmon, mackerel, krill, olive etc.).

The most important nutrients canines need are protein and fat. Dogs can digest carbohydrates in small amounts, but they don’t actually have a nutritional requirement for carbohydrates. Manufacturers of dry kibble include them because starch is needed for the extrusion process and they are an inexpensive ingredient. Carbs do provide energy and may be helpful for very active dogs. However, too many carbohydrates in our pet’s food can raise insulin and cause obesity. But be careful about your grain-free choices as some manufacturers replace low cost grains with low cost legumes which increase the protein percentage on the package but which are obviously not as healthy for your dog as meat or fish based proteins and not as easily digested. Unlike quality proteins, legumes don’t naturally contain taurine which is an essential nutrient and may prevent DCM.

Dogs just aren’t designed to eat dry, processed foods their entire lives. Dry foods are ultra-processed, requiring the addition of vitamins, minerals and amino acids to replace nutrition lost in the high heat process. The two main nutrients required by dogs are protein and fat. Yes, dogs can eat some carbs, but in large quantities it can contribute to health issues. Unfortunately, the percentage of carbohydrates in a typical dry dog food is 46-64%. Yikes! Read the label on most dry dog food brands, including the ones sold by the top pet food manufacturers s and specialized veterinarian formulas. Take a look at the inclusion of corn, wheat, barley, rice, potatoes, inexpensive protein meal and legumes (in all their repetitive forms). Although not currently required on labels, starting next year dog food product labels will start showing the Carbohydrate percentage and it will be easier for all pet parents to choose the best option.

Feed kibble with the lowest carb count and the least legumes that your budget allows. I highly recommend Carna4 which is made with real meat and organic sprouted seeds. Sprouting, germinates the seed, breaking down the starches and supporting natural nutrient absorption. You can also consider freeze-dried, air-dried, canned, gently cooked or pre-made frozen raw. If you can start including just 10% more fresh foods, you significantly reduce the carbohydrates your canine is eating, and drastically improve their health. Personally, we feed our fresh and raw ingredients at breakfast and their evening meal is one of the dry formulas. This is also what our reproductive vet does for their own pets.

And don’t be afraid of the term “raw” in pet food. Companies like Steve’s Raw eliminate the inconvenience and sell pre-made patties that are complete and balanced. Just thaw overnight and serve. They look like a square raw burger patty, no odor, no mess, no fuss.