The Hokuō® Journal

The article explains that the cat is not a small dog, but an obligate carnivore with unique nutritional needs. Cats depend on animal-based nutrients such as taurine, vitamin A, arachidonic acid, and niacin, which they cannot produce in sufficient amounts themselves. Unlike dogs, they have limited ability to utilize plant-based nutrients and require a high-protein, meat-based diet. It also highlights why dry food—typically high in starch and low in moisture—does not align with the cat’s natural prey-based diet and may contribute to dehydration, kidney disease, and urinary tract issues. Additionally, the article explains the cat’s selective eating behavior as a result of evolution, sensory biology, and early imprinting. The conclusion is clear: feline nutrition must respect the cat’s biology as an obligate carnivore, not mirror the dietary needs of dogs.

Bone Broth for Cats & Dogs: Wild Venison and Organic Reishi — Why We Chose This Combination Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a mushroom with a long history. Used traditionally across East Asia, it's often described in scientific literature for its immune‑modulating and anti‑inflammatory properties. Still, it remains underutilized in the pet space — and even more so when combined with wild‑sourced proteins like venison. This is the foundation for our formulation: a combination of wild venison bone broth and organic reishi mushroom — developed specifically to explore how bone broth for dogs and cats can offer functional, evidence-based support. It’s designed not as a trend, but as a functional step forward. Here's why we chose this pairing — and what current research tells us about its role in supporting dogs and cats. Table of contents Bone Broth for Cats & Dogs: Wild Venison and Organic Reishi — Why We Chose This Combination Why Reishi? The Scientific Case for Pets Reishi + Venison — A Functional Combination Our Reishi: 100% Organic and European Why Wild Venison? More Than a Novel Protein Scientific Caution & Responsible Use Reishi is one of the most researched functional mushrooms, shown to support immune function, inflammation regulation, antioxidant activity, and gut health: now also documented in a 2024 canine study. Wild venison provides a lean, novel protein that supports sensitive pets, offering essential amino acids and minerals without triggering common intolerances. Together, reishi and venison create a well-tolerated, multifunctional formulation for hydration, immune balance, digestion, and recovery. The article also outlines responsible use, dosage guidance, and important safety considerations. Why Reishi? The Scientific Case for Pets Ganoderma lucidum is one of the most studied functional mushrooms, with research pointing toward its role in modulating the immune system, regulating inflammation, and offering antioxidant support. A 2024 peer‑reviewed study published in the Journal of Animal Science tested reishi supplementation in dogs directly. Forty adult beagles were fed varying levels of reishi extract (0, 5, 10, and 15 mg per kg bodyweight) over 28 days. Key findings included: Enhanced immune cell activity: Dogs given reishi showed increased phagocytic capacity of monocytes and a stronger IgG vaccine response — pointing to improved immune surveillance and response. No negative impact: Digestibility of nutrients, coat quality, and stool consistency remained stable across all groups, indicating good tolerability.(PubMed Study) Reishi’s primary bioactive compounds — β‑glucans and triterpenoids — are thought to interact with gut-associated immune cells, triggering broader systemic effects. Other studies suggest benefits such as: Cytokine modulation — including regulation of IL-2 and IFN-γ production Antioxidant activity — protecting cells from oxidative stress Gut microbial support — promoting a more balanced microbiota Potential liver‑protective effects — in preclinical trials involving toxin‑induced liver damage(PMC Study) These effects are not unique to humans. Animal studies (rodent, canine, and emerging feline research) indicate these pathways may be active across species — including companion animals. Why Wild Venison? More Than a Novel Protein We chose wild venison for its functional simplicity. It offers several advantages: A true novel protein: Most pets are regularly exposed to chicken, beef, or lamb. Venison represents a cleaner protein with reduced likelihood of triggering food sensitivities or allergic reactions. Low‑fat and lean: Especially beneficial for dogs or cats managing weight, digestive sensitivity, or low-grade inflammation. Rich in amino acids and trace minerals: When bones are simmered properly — using marrow bones, ribs, femur, and joints — you extract a spectrum of naturally occurring nutrients that support joint, connective tissue, and bone health. It’s also a sustainability and ethics decision: our venison is 100% wild and sourced in Europe under traceable standards — with no added growth agents or confinement farming practices. Discover our Venison & Reishi Bone Broth "Our venison bone broth for cats and dogs naturally contains 3.09% protein, with 2.02% of that being collagen — resulting in a collagen-to-protein ratio of 65.37%.” Reishi + Venison — A Functional Combination Here’s how these two ingredients work together: Immune readiness: Reishi supports both innate and adaptive immune responses. Combined with venison — a protein source unlikely to activate immune hypersensitivities — it creates a calmer immune environment. Anti‑inflammatory balance: Triterpenes in reishi may reduce inflammatory markers, while the amino acid content in bone broth provides raw materials to repair tissues. Digestive comfort: Reishi’s gut‑microbiota support and the gelatin from bone broth both support gut integrity — especially valuable for animals recovering from stress, illness, or poor diet. Natural hydration: Bone broth is inherently hydrating, which supports delivery of reishi’s actives throughout the body while also helping with palatability and moisture intake. Together, they offer a composition that is well-tolerated, multifunctional, and grounded in what science increasingly supports — without going beyond what the research shows. Our Reishi: 100% Organic and European Most reishi on the market — especially in the pet space — comes from Asian imports. This doesn’t always guarantee quality or transparency. Our reishi is 100% European and organic. Even more importantly, it undergoes ultrasonic extraction — a technique that breaks down the tough fungal cell walls (made of chitin) to release the bioactive compounds more effectively. This makes the extract more bioavailable and functionally active in small amounts. Our Bone Broth for cats and dogs with Venison & Reishi contains 200 mg of active components and beta-glucans per 100 ml. This provides approximately 20 mg of reishi per kg of bodyweight, based on our recommended feeding amount. It’s also worth noting: our Bone Broth naturally contains 3.09% protein, with 2.02% of that being collagen — resulting in a collagen-to-protein ratio of 65.37%. This makes it a valuable choice not just for functional support, but also for pets needing high-quality, bioavailable collagen in their daily routine. As always, serving amounts can be adjusted in cooperation with a homeopath or educated canine nutritionist. We do not recommend exceeding 100 ml per 10 kg of bodyweight per day unless advised by a qualified professional. See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product Scientific Caution & Responsible Use While reishi has shown great promise in early research — and was well‑tolerated in controlled canine trials — we are careful not to overstate its power. It is not a cure. It is a supportive ingredient. Long‑term studies in pets are limited, and much of what we know comes from animal models and early‑phase research. Reishi can interact with medications, especially immune‑modulating or anti‑coagulant drugs. Some studies and clinical observations associate reishi with mild blood‑thinning effects, meaning pets with clotting disorders, low platelet counts, or those preparing for surgery should only use it under veterinary supervision. As with any functional ingredient, introduce it gradually and consult a professional if your pet has existing medical conditions. Conclusion The science around reishi is developing, and while not all claims are proven, its potential to support immune function, gut health, and inflammation is increasingly documented — including in dogs. When combined with a clean, novel protein source like wild venison, it becomes a practical option for pets with sensitivities or those needing additional support.We don’t present this as a cure or a complete solution. It’s an informed choice.If you’re unsure whether this combination is suitable for your pet, we recommend speaking with a homeopath, a qualified canine or feline nutritionist, or your veterinarian. FAQ 1. What benefits does reishi offer for dogs and cats? Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is supported by research for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. A 2024 canine study showed improved immune responses with no negative effects on digestion or coat quality. Its beta-glucans and triterpenes may also support gut health, microbial balance, and liver function — making it a useful supportive ingredient for many pets. 2. Why combine wild venison with reishi in a bone broth? Wild venison is a clean, lean, novel protein that reduces the risk of reactions in sensitive pets. When simmered into bone broth, it provides collagen, amino acids, and natural minerals that support joint and gut health. Pairing venison with reishi creates a gentle, highly digestible combination that supports immune balance, hydration, and tissue repair — while remaining well-tolerated for most dogs and cats. 3. Is reishi safe for all pets, and how should it be used? Reishi is generally well-tolerated, but it should be introduced gradually. It may interact with certain medications, especially immune-modulating or blood-thinning drugs. Pets with clotting issues, chronic illness, or upcoming surgery should use it only with veterinary guidance. The recommended maximum is 100 ml per 10 kg bodyweight per day unless otherwise instructed by a qualified professional. The Author: Christian Adamsen Founder of Hokuō® The First Reindeer Bone Broth on the Market – And It's Wild! Read more Benefits of Bone Broth for Your Pet's Health Read more Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Liquid vs Dehydrated? Read more

The holidays bring warmth, festivities, and delicious food — but many seasonal dishes can put dogs at risk. This article explains the most common Christmas food dangers for dogs, including fatty leftovers that can trigger pancreatitis and toxic ingredients like chocolate, grapes, xylitol, onions, and alcohol. It also covers why cooked bones are unsafe and how to recognise early symptoms of illness. To help dog owners celebrate safely, the article offers practical, vet-informed guidance on healthy alternatives, safe treats, feeding precautions, and long-term prevention. With a few mindful choices, you can enjoy the holidays while protecting your dog from avoidable harm.

This guide explores how to support dogs through the stress of Christmas and New Year. Learn how routines, enrichment, safe spaces, walks, supplements, and preparation for fireworks help dogs feel secure and calm during a hectic holiday season.

Dog training has come a long way from dominance-based methods to cooperation and mutual understanding. This article explores how our relationship with dogs has evolved from strict hierarchy and punishment to modern, reward-based training rooted in empathy and science. It explains how positive reinforcement strengthens learning, trust, and emotional wellbeing while reducing stress and behavioural problems. Backed by research, the piece highlights why saying “yes” more often than “no” builds stronger, happier, and more confident dogs – and a deeper human–dog bond.

Dog training has come a long way from dominance-based methods to cooperation and mutual understanding. This article explores how our relationship with dogs has evolved from strict hierarchy and punishment to modern, reward-based training rooted in empathy and science. It explains how positive reinforcement strengthens learning, trust, and emotional wellbeing while reducing stress and behavioural problems. Backed by research, the piece highlights why saying “yes” more often than “no” builds stronger, happier, and more confident dogs – and a deeper human–dog bond.

Collagen is much more than just a structural protein — it plays a vital role in your dog’s overall health. This article explores how different collagen types (I, II, and III) support strong joints, flexible tendons, healthy skin, and even a robust intestinal barrier. Backed by scientific research, it explains the differences between hydrolyzed collagen peptides and undenatured UC-II®, how they influence the immune system, and what recent studies reveal about collagen’s potential benefits for dogs with osteoarthritis. The article also discusses bone broth as a natural collagen source and summarizes practical insights for dog owners seeking to promote joint health and mobility through evidence-based nutrition.

Dandelion root and flower for cats and dogs is far more than a common garden weed — it’s a powerful, science-backed herb with wide-ranging benefits. Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and natural compounds, dandelion supports healthy liver, kidney, and digestive function while helping reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Research highlights its gentle detoxifying properties and positive effects on metabolic balance.

Why All the Talk About Omega-3 Fatty Acids? If you own a dog, chances are you’ve been part of at least one conversation about dog food. And quite often, that conversation ends up focusing on one specific nutrient: omega-3 fatty acids. But why is there so much hype around omega-3s in dog food? What makes omega-3 fatty acids so special compared to other nutrients? And what should you be aware of when choosing omega-3 supplements for your dog? That’s exactly what you’ll learn in the following. Table of Content What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids? Which Omega-3 Fatty Acids Exist? The Vital Physiological Functions of EPA and DHA It Doesn’t Stop There What to Know When Choosing and Storing Omega-3 Supplements for Your Dog Next Time You’re at the Dog Park… What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids? Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats essential to a range of physiological processes. They belong to the group of long-chain fatty acids, making them particularly reactive and biologically active. That’s important to keep in mind when selecting an omega-3 supplement—and knowing how to store it properly. Because dogs can’t produce sufficient amounts of omega-3 fatty acids on their own, they must be supplied through the diet. This makes omega-3s essential nutrients for dogs. See Product Which Omega-3 Fatty Acids Exist? The omega-3 fatty acids most commonly discussed in canine nutrition are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). While all three are omega-3s, they are not equal when it comes to feeding your dog. ALA is found in many plant-based oils like flaxseed oil, hemp seed oil, and chia oil, and can be converted in the body into EPA and DHA. However, dogs are not very efficient at converting ALA—only about 5–10% of it becomes EPA, and less than 1% becomes DHA. This means that plant oils—except one—can’t replace ingredients rich in EPA and DHA. That exception is algae oil, which is the only plant-based oil rich in both EPA and DHA. All other significant sources of EPA and DHA come from marine sources like fish, mussels, krill, and algae. Why EPA and DHA Are So Important  You might ask, “Why can’t I just use a good plant oil rich in ALA?” It’s usually easier and more affordable. The answer lies in the broad spectrum of physiological effects that EPA and DHA offer—but ALA does not. Although ALA is an essential fatty acid on paper, its main purpose is to serve as a precursor to EPA and DHA. And since dogs can barely make that conversion, ALA is not physiologically sufficient. It can’t meet your dog’s real omega-3 needs, especially in cases of inflammation, pregnancy and lactation, brain development in puppies, or skin and coat issues. Here’s the catch: if you're aiming for a low omega-6 to omega-3 ratio (for good reason, which we'll get into later), you can't solely rely on the numbers listed by dog food manufacturers. A ratio of 4:1 or 3:1 might look great—but if the omega-3s come primarily from ALA, the food won’t have the desired effect. The upside? You don’t need to worry about your dog getting enough ALA. You can focus entirely on EPA and DHA. Wild-caught Baltic Sprat Graphic © Hokuō® New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel Graphic © Hokuō® The Vital Physiological Functions of EPA and DHA Anti-inflammatory Properties One key reason is EPA’s anti-inflammatory effect. This is where the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio becomes highly relevant. Arachidonic acid (AA), an omega-6 fatty acid, and EPA are both processed in the body via the same enzymatic pathways: cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX). These enzymes convert the fatty acids into eicosanoids, hormone-like messengers that help regulate inflammation. When AA is processed, it mainly creates eicosanoids that promote inflammation, pain, fever, and the attraction of white blood cells—essential during an acute infection. But too much AA activity can lead to chronic inflammation. EPA, on the other hand, is converted into eicosanoids that counteract inflammation. Since EPA and AA compete for the same enzymes, a higher EPA concentration in the bloodstream helps reduce the dog’s inflammatory response. EPA and DHA are also precursors to specific signaling molecules that actively resolve inflammation and support tissue repair. Role in Joint Health and Osteoarthritis This anti-inflammatory action is also why omega-3s play such a key role in managing osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a low-grade, chronic inflammation of the joints. The anti-inflammatory properties of EPA and DHA can reduce joint swelling, pain, and stiffness. Studies have shown that dogs with osteoarthritis supplemented with marine omega-3s walked better and longer, showed less pain behavior, and needed fewer NSAIDs. There’s also potential for EPA and DHA to slow down the progression of osteoarthritis by reducing cartilage breakdown. Brain Development and Cognitive Function Marine omega-3s aren’t just good for inflammation—they’re also crucial for brain health. DHA, in particular, is vital for nervous system development in puppies and maintaining cognitive function in older dogs. That’s not surprising, given that DHA is a key structural component and the most abundant fatty acid in the canine brain. Several studies suggest that puppies given DHA supplements after weaning learn faster, show improved cognition, and have better memory compared to those that didn’t get DHA. The same applies to puppies whose mothers received DHA during pregnancy—they performed significantly better in behavioral and cognition tests. It Doesn’t Stop There And no, the benefits don’t stop here. EPA and DHA also support the skin barrier, contributing to better skin and coat health. The cardiovascular system also benefits from marine omega-3s, and DHA has been shown to improve not only cognition but also visual development in puppies. A recent observational study even suggests that including marine omega-3s in puppy diets may significantly reduce the risk of epilepsy later in life. What to Know When Choosing and Storing Omega-3 Supplements for Your Dog Choose fish oils or other omega-3 supplements from sustainable sources that are tested and purified for contaminants like heavy metals and PCBs. Omega-3s are very sensitive to oxidation (remember: highly reactive and biologically active). Oxidized fats are not just ineffective—they can actually harm your dog’s tissues by forming free radicals. The Totox value (short for total oxidation) is a measurement of how oxidized an oil is. The lower the Totox value, the less oxidized the oil. Aim for a Totox value under 5. Unfortunately, this value isn’t always disclosed by the manufacturer. Store omega-3 supplements in a way that protects them from light, heat, and oxygen. Keep them in the fridge and use them within a few weeks. You can also meet your dog’s omega-3 needs by including fatty fish in their regular diet. Depending on the amount of fish, additional supplementation may not be necessary. Many complete dog foods also contain marine omega-3s—but just like supplements, they’re vulnerable to oxidation. So by the time the food reaches your dog’s bowl, the omega-3s might have lost their effectiveness. This depends on many factors: the quality of the omega-3 source, how the food is packaged, how long it’s been stored by the manufacturer, the retailer, and you—and even the size of the food bag, which affects how long the food is exposed to oxygen. See Product See Product Next Time You’re at the Dog Park… Next time you’re out in the dog park and the topic of dog food and omega-3s comes up, chances are you’ll know more than anyone else in the conversation—and you might even have a tip or two to share. Sources: Antonelli, C. et al. (2023). Effects of docosahexaenoic acid dietary supplementation on cognitive learning and memory in healthy puppies. Animals, 13(20), 3261. Bauer, J. E. (2011). Enhancing canine cognition with omega-3 fatty acids. Nestlé Purina Nutrition Forum. Bauer, J. E. (2006). Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(11), 1761–1764. Bauer, J. E. et al. (2018). Evaluation of enrichment of diets with omega-3 fatty acids and effects on plasma fatty acid profiles in dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 252(12), 1470–1478. Calder, P. C. (2017). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man. Biochemical Society Transactions, 45(5), 1105–1115. Carlisle C. et al. (2024). The Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on the Omega-3 Index and Quality of Life and Pain Scores in Dogs. Animals, 14(21):3108. Freeman, L. M. et al. (2010). The role of nutritional supplements in cardiac disease. Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 12(3), 149–155. Fritsche, K. L. et al. (2010). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and immune regulation. British Journal of Nutrition, 104(Suppl 2), S1–S9. Heinemann, K. M. et al. (2005). Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation during pregnancy and lactation affects visual, cognitive, and behavioral development in dogs. Journal of Nutrition, 135(8), 1960S–1964S. Hemida M. et al. (2023). Assessing the association between supplemented puppyhood dietary fat sources and owner-reported epilepsy in adulthood, among Finnish companion dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10:1227437. Lenox, C. E. & Bauer, J. E. (2013). Potential adverse effects of omega-3 fatty acids in dogs and cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 27(2), 217–226. Logas, D. & Kunkle, G. A. (1994). Clinical response of canine pruritus to dietary supplementation with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Veterinary Dermatology, 5(3), 99–104. Packer, R. M. A. et al. (2023). Fish-based fat sources in puppyhood are associated with reduced risk of idiopathic epilepsy in adult dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10, 1202192. Roush, J. K. et al. (2010). Evaluation of the effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis. JAVMA, 236(1), 67–73. Shahidi, F. & Zhong, Y. (2010). Lipid oxidation and improving the oxidative stability. Chemical Society Reviews, 39(11), 4067–4079. Zicker, S. C. et al. (2012). Cognitive and behavioral effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil in senior dogs. The Veterinary Journal, 192(3), 426–431. Zicker, S. C. et al. (2012). Evaluation of cognitive function in puppies fed dietary docosahexaenoic acid. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 240(8), 935–941. The Author: Ann-Kristin Meyer MSc in Animal Science from the University of Copenhagen, specializing in canine nutrition, Owner of HundeFoderNørden 3 Easy Summer Lickmat Recipes for Cats & Dogs Read more Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Liquid vs Dehydrated? Read more How Are Freeze Dried Treats for Cats and Dogs Made? Read more