Our Nutrition Philosophy
Good nutrition starts with understanding what truly nourishes pets, not just to fill a bowl, but to support a full, healthy life. UMe recipes are designed with purpose, using real ingredients that deliver real outcomes. Simple. Effective. Built for wellbeing that lasts.
Formulated by Experts. Crafted with Care
Every UMe product begins with the same principle: use only what has a real nutritional purpose and treat it with care. Our recipes are developed by qualified animal nutritionists who understand what pets truly need at every life stage. We don’t follow fads or overcomplicate our formulas. We focus on ingredients that deliver visible health benefits.
Once formulated, our food is gently made using minimally processed methods that protect nutrient integrity. By avoiding excessive heat and harsh processing, we preserve the natural goodness and potency of every ingredient. This helps ensure your pet receives the full nutritional value of what goes in.
The result is smarter nutrition that works. Purposeful, holistically, pure, and ready to support a full, healthy life.
What Belongs in a Bowl
A complete diet should do more than meet minimum requirements. It should support real health outcomes, deliver purposeful ingredients, and reflect the way animals are built to thrive. At UMe, we focus on feeding for vitality, not just fullness.
Protein, fats, and essential nutrients form the foundation of any meal. But there is also room to include whole food extras that offer added value. In the right amounts, fruits and vegetables can complement a balanced diet and help elevate every meal.
We recommend being mindful of fruit, especially due to its natural sugar content. Use it as a garnish, not a main ingredient. A few fresh berries or a slice of apple is often enough to provide the benefits without overdoing it.
Vegetables bring fibre, phytonutrients, and variety to the bowl. Lightly steaming or cooking them can improve digestibility and make them more enjoyable to eat. This helps unlock more of the nutrients your dog can absorb and benefit from.
If you're curious about which fruits and vegetables are helpful, or why they’re included in the first place, keep reading.
The Power of Fruits & Vegetables
Some pet owners wonder whether fruits and vegetables belong in a dog’s diet. While we touched on their role earlier, this section explains why we include them, how they contribute to health, and why the way we use them matters. At UMe, fruits and vegetables are used with intention, not to pad the label or replace protein, but to deliver functional benefits. From antioxidants and fibre to natural plant compounds that support gut health and immunity, we select only what adds value to the overall formulation.
We also consider how the body uses these ingredients. Many vegetables are easier to digest and more beneficial when cooked lightly. Fruits offer natural sweetness and phytonutrients, but we include them in controlled amounts to avoid excess sugar.
Used with care and purpose, produce isn’t filler. It’s part of a smarter, more complete way to feed. For a simple guide to pet-friendly produce, explore our list of fruits and vegetables that are safe to include in your dog’s diet.
Fruits You Can Add
Apples
Apples are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fibre. They are low in protein and fat, making them a suitable snack for senior dogs.
Always remove the seeds and core before feeding to prevent choking and intestinal blockage.
Bananas
High in potassium, vitamins B6 and C, and fibre, bananas are a
low-calorie treat. They should be given in moderation due to their
higher sugar content.
Avoid giving banana peels, which can be hard to digest.
Blueberries
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber. They support the immune system and may help in recovery after exercise.
Can be fed fresh or frozen as treats.
Pineapple
Pineapple is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre. It contains bromelain, which aids protein digestion.
Only feed the fleshy part, avoiding the skin and crown.
Raspberries
Raspberries are high in fibre, manganese, and vitamin C. They have anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for senior dogs.
Limit to small amounts due to the presence of xylitol, which can be harmful in large quantities.
Strawberries
Full of fibre and vitamin C, strawberries also contain an enzyme that can help whiten dogs' teeth.
Wash and cut into small pieces before serving.
Watermelon
Watermelon is hydrating (about 92% water) and contains vitamins A, B6, and C. It's low in calories and great for hot days.
Remove the rind and seeds before feeding.
Veg You Can Add
Broccoli
Broccoli is low in calories and high in fibre, vitamins C and K, and folate. It supports overall health and digestion.
Serve in moderation, as large amounts can cause gas. Sprinkle with a small amount of ginger powder to aid digestion.
Carrots
Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre and beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. They promote good vision and
dental health.
Can be served raw or cooked, cut into bite-sized pieces. Toss with a bit of dried basil for added flavour and antioxidants.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fibre, vitamins C and K, and folate. It supports overall health and digestion.
Serve in moderation, as large amounts can cause gas. Sprinkle it with a dash of turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
Green Beans
Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a filling snack. They are also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.
Serve fresh or steamed, avoiding any added salt or seasoning. Toss with a
bit of dried rosemary, which can help preserve freshness.
Kale
Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fibre and antioxidants. It supports immune function and overall health.
Chop or puree kale to make it easier for dogs to digest. Sprinkle with a small amount of dried parsley for added nutrients and breath-freshening
benefits.
Sweet Potatoes
Rich in vitamins A, B6, C, and dietary fibre, sweet potatoes are beneficial for digestive health and immune function.
Cook and mash or cut into small pieces, avoiding any added sugars or spices. Toss with a dash of cinnamon, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
Peas
Peas are a good source of vitamins A, B, and K, as well as protein and fibre. They support overall health and digestion.
Can be served fresh or frozen. Sprinkle with a bit of dried dill, which aids digestion and freshens breath.
Pumpkin
Pure pumpkin is high in fibre and antioxidants, helping with digestive issues like diarrhoea and constipation.
Use 100% pure pumpkin puree or cooked pumpkin flesh, avoiding any added
sugars or spices. Toss with a dash of cinnamon for added flavour and
health benefits.
Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as fibre and antioxidants. It promotes healthy vision, immune function, and digestive health.
Cook and mash or cut into small pieces, avoiding any added sugars or spices. Sprinkle with a bit of dried sage, which has anti-inflammatory properties
Foods To Avoid
Some foods simply don’t belong in a dog’s bowl. We avoid ingredients that offer no functional benefit, or worse, may cause harm, including artificial preservatives, unnecessary fillers, and known toxins like chocolate, onions, and grapes.
For a closer look at what to keep out of your dog’s diet, see our expanded list of foods to avoid.
Chocolate
Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid heartbeat, seizures, and can be fatal depending on the amount ingested and the type of chocolate (dark chocolate is more dangerous).
Grapes and Raisins
Can cause acute kidney failure in some dogs, leading to symptoms like
vomiting, lethargy, and decreased urination. The exact toxin is unknown,
making them particularly dangerous.
Onions and Garlic
Contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anaemia.
Symptoms may not appear for days and include weakness, lethargy, and
dark urine. Garlic is considered five times more potent than onions.
Avocado
Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. All parts of the avocado, including the fruit, pit, and leaves, can be harmful.
Macadamia Nuts
Can cause weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia. The exact toxin is
unknown, and even small amounts can lead to serious health issues.
Xylitol
An artificial sweetener found in sugar-free products. Ingestion can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, leading to symptoms like vomiting, seizures, and liver failure.
Caffeine
Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, caffeine can cause restlessness,
rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and even death in high doses.
Raw Bread Dough
The yeast in dough can expand in the stomach, leading to bloating and potential rupture. It also produces alcohol as it ferments, which can cause alcohol poisoning.
Cooked Bones
Can splinter and cause choking or serious damage to the digestive tract. Raw bones are generally safer but should still be given with caution.
Corn on the Cob
The cob can cause choking or intestinal blockage. While corn itself is safe, the cob is a significant risk.
Certain Fruits (Seeds/Pits)
The seeds and pits of fruits like apples, apricots, cherries, and plums contain cyanide, which is toxic. Symptoms can include vomiting, irregular heartbeat, and potentially death.
Dairy Products
Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy can lead to digestive upset, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Salt
Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, and seizures.
Nutmeg
Health Risks: Contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, and seizures in dogs.
Sugar
Health Risks: Excessive sugar can lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes in dogs.
How to Feed for Results
Feeding the right food the right way helps your pet get the most from every meal. Use our daily guide to find the right amount and adjust gradually when switching. Fresh, clean water should always be available.