Dog Food Without Chicken: Finding the Best Options

Dog Food Without Chicken is a valuable consideration for pet parents addressing sensitivities or allergies. FOODS.EDU.VN is your premier resource for understanding canine dietary needs and identifying high-quality, chicken-free dog food alternatives. Learn about suitable substitutions and nutritional balance for a healthy, happy pup. Chicken-free diets and alternative protein sources will provide optimal canine nutrition for your furry friend.

1. Understanding Chicken Allergies in Dogs

Chicken is a common ingredient in many commercial dog foods, prized for its affordability and protein content. However, it’s also a fairly common allergen for dogs. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, chicken is among the top three food allergens reported in dogs. Recognizing the signs of a chicken allergy is crucial for your dog’s well-being.

1.1. Recognizing the Symptoms

A chicken allergy in dogs can manifest in various ways. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe health issues. Common signs include:

Skin problems: Itchy skin (pruritus), hives, rashes, hot spots, excessive licking, and hair loss.
Digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, and loss of appetite.
Ear infections: Chronic or recurring ear infections, often accompanied by redness and inflammation.
Respiratory issues: Coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing (though less common).
Other symptoms: Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (rare but serious), and anal gland issues.

If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, especially after introducing a new food or noticing a pattern after meals, consult with your veterinarian. They can perform tests to determine if a chicken allergy is the culprit.

1.2. Diagnosing a Chicken Allergy

Diagnosing a food allergy in dogs can be challenging, as symptoms can mimic other conditions. Your veterinarian might recommend one or more of the following methods:

Elimination Diet: This is the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies. It involves feeding your dog a novel protein and carbohydrate source (ingredients they haven’t eaten before) for 8-12 weeks. If the symptoms resolve during this period, chicken is reintroduced to see if the symptoms return.
Allergy Testing: Blood tests (serum IgE tests) and skin tests (intradermal skin testing) are available, but their accuracy in diagnosing food allergies is debated among veterinary dermatologists. They can sometimes produce false positives or false negatives.
Fecal Analysis: A fecal analysis may also help in determining the presence of any allergic reactions.

1.3. Why Chicken is a Common Allergen

Several factors contribute to chicken being a common allergen in dogs:

Frequent Exposure: Because chicken is so prevalent in dog food, dogs are frequently exposed to it, increasing the likelihood of developing an allergy over time.
Protein Structure: The specific protein structure of chicken might be more prone to triggering an allergic reaction in some dogs.
Processing Methods: The way chicken is processed and rendered into dog food ingredients can sometimes alter its protein structure, potentially making it more allergenic.
Individual Sensitivity: Just like humans, dogs have individual sensitivities and genetic predispositions that can make them more susceptible to developing allergies to certain foods.

Dog with itchy skin

Itchy skin is a common symptom of food allergies in dogs.

2. Key Considerations When Choosing Chicken-Free Dog Food

Switching to a chicken-free diet requires careful consideration to ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are met. Understanding the ingredients and nutritional profile of alternative foods is critical.

2.1. Reading and Understanding Dog Food Labels

Dog food labels can be confusing, but learning how to decipher them is essential for making informed decisions. Pay attention to the following:

Ingredient List: Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. The first few ingredients make up the bulk of the food. Look for named protein sources (e.g., lamb, salmon, beef) instead of generic terms like “meat by-products.”
Guaranteed Analysis: This section provides the minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat, as well as the maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. These values are important for assessing the food’s nutritional content.
AAFCO Statement: The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statement indicates whether the food is “complete and balanced” for a specific life stage (e.g., growth, maintenance, all life stages). This statement ensures that the food meets the minimum nutritional requirements established by AAFCO.
“Chicken-Free” Claims: Be cautious of labels that claim “chicken-free.” Always scrutinize the ingredient list to ensure that there are no hidden sources of chicken, such as “chicken meal,” “chicken by-products,” or “chicken fat.”

2.2. Identifying Hidden Sources of Chicken

Chicken can hide in unexpected places in dog food. Be vigilant about these ingredients:

Chicken Meal: This is a concentrated protein source made from chicken flesh and skin.
Chicken By-Products: These include organs and other parts of the chicken carcass that are not muscle meat.
Chicken Fat: While chicken fat is often considered safe for dogs with chicken allergies, some sensitive dogs may still react to it.
Natural Flavors: This vague term can sometimes include chicken-based ingredients. Contact the manufacturer to inquire about the source of “natural flavors.”
Hydrolyzed Chicken Protein: This is chicken protein that has been broken down into smaller pieces to reduce its allergenicity. However, some dogs may still react to it.

2.3. Evaluating Protein Sources

When choosing a chicken-free dog food, carefully evaluate the alternative protein sources. Consider the following factors:

Protein Quality: Look for high-quality protein sources that are easily digestible and provide a complete amino acid profile. Examples include lamb, beef, fish (salmon, whitefish), turkey, duck, and plant-based proteins like peas and lentils.
Novel Proteins: If your dog has multiple food sensitivities, consider a novel protein source that they haven’t eaten before, such as venison, rabbit, or kangaroo.
Amino Acid Profile: Ensure that the protein source provides all the essential amino acids that dogs need. Some plant-based proteins may be deficient in certain amino acids, so they need to be supplemented.
Digestibility: Choose protein sources that are easily digestible for your dog. Some dogs may have difficulty digesting certain proteins, leading to digestive upset.

2.4. Considering Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive Options

The choice between grain-free and grain-inclusive dog food is a matter of ongoing debate.

Grain-Free: Grain-free dog foods replace grains like corn, wheat, and soy with alternative carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. While these foods can be beneficial for dogs with grain sensitivities, some studies have linked them to an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart disease. The FDA is currently investigating this potential link.
Grain-Inclusive: Grain-inclusive dog foods contain grains like brown rice, barley, and oats. These grains can provide valuable nutrients and fiber. If your dog doesn’t have a grain sensitivity, grain-inclusive options can be a healthy choice.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine whether a grain-free or grain-inclusive diet is best for your dog.

Carefully reading dog food labels is crucial for identifying potential allergens and ensuring proper nutrition.

3. Top Chicken-Free Dog Food Brands and Formulas

Navigating the world of chicken-free dog food can be overwhelming. Here are some reputable brands and formulas to consider.

3.1. Examining Leading Brands

Several brands offer high-quality chicken-free dog food options. Here are a few notable examples:

Canidae: Canidae offers a variety of limited-ingredient and grain-free formulas that are free of chicken. Their PURE line features recipes with single animal protein sources, making them a good choice for dogs with sensitivities.
Wellness: Wellness CORE and Simple lines offer chicken-free options with a focus on high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition.
Blue Buffalo: Blue Buffalo offers several chicken-free recipes in their Basics and Wilderness lines, featuring novel protein sources like lamb, salmon, and duck.
Purina Pro Plan: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets offers specialized formulas for dogs with food allergies, including options with hydrolyzed protein sources and novel proteins.
Royal Canin: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet formulas often include limited ingredient options that are chicken-free and cater to specific dietary needs.

3.2. Specific Formula Recommendations

Here are some specific chicken-free dog food formulas to consider:

Brand	Formula	Key Ingredients	Protein Source	Grain-Free?	Notes
Canidae	PURE Limited Ingredient Diet Salmon Recipe	Salmon, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, peas	Salmon	Yes	Limited ingredient formula, good for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Wellness	CORE Grain-Free Wild Game Recipe	Duck, lamb meal, turkey meal, peas	Duck/Lamb	Yes	High-protein formula with multiple novel protein sources.
Blue Buffalo	Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato	Turkey, potato, peas, pea starch	Turkey	Yes	Limited ingredient formula with turkey as the single animal protein source.
Purina Pro Plan	Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Salmon Formula	Hydrolyzed salmon protein, rice, vegetable oil	Salmon	No	Hydrolyzed protein formula, designed for dogs with severe food allergies.
Royal Canin	Veterinary Diet Selected Protein Adult PD	Pea, potato, canola oil	Pea	Yes	A veterinary-exclusive diet, designed for dogs with specific sensitivities, formulated with essential nutrients to support overall health, and should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

3.3. Analyzing Ingredient Lists of Popular Choices

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredient lists of some popular chicken-free dog food options:

Canidae PURE Limited Ingredient Diet Salmon Recipe: Salmon, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, peas, canola oil, suncured alfalfa, flaxseed, natural flavor, minerals, vitamins, probiotics.
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Wild Game Recipe: Duck, lamb meal, turkey meal, peas, dried ground potatoes, dried tomatoes, lamb, whitefish meal, canola oil, flaxseed, natural flavor, vitamins, minerals, mixed tocopherols (preservative), dried chicory root, taurine, L-Carnitine, probiotics.
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato: Deboned turkey, potatoes, pea starch, peas, canola oil, flaxseed, natural flavor, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, vitamins, minerals, taurine.

Analyzing the ingredient lists can help you identify potential allergens and assess the quality of the ingredients. Look for whole food ingredients and avoid foods with excessive fillers or artificial additives.

3.4. Considering Limited Ingredient Diets (LID)

Limited Ingredient Diets (LID) are formulated with a small number of ingredients to minimize the risk of triggering an allergic reaction. These diets typically feature a single animal protein source and a limited number of carbohydrates and other ingredients. LID diets can be a good option for dogs with food sensitivities, but it’s important to ensure that they still provide complete and balanced nutrition.

Switching to a chicken-free diet may require experimentation to find the best fit for your dog’s individual needs.

4. Transitioning Your Dog to a Chicken-Free Diet

Switching your dog to a new diet should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. A slow transition allows your dog’s digestive system to adjust to the new food.

4.1. A Gradual Transition Schedule

Follow this schedule over 7-10 days:

Day 1-2: Mix 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food.
Day 3-4: Mix 50% of the new food with 50% of the old food.
Day 5-6: Mix 75% of the new food with 25% of the old food.
Day 7-10: Feed 100% of the new food.

If your dog experiences digestive upset (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) during the transition, slow down the process and consult with your veterinarian.

4.2. Monitoring Your Dog’s Response

During and after the transition, carefully monitor your dog for any signs of adverse reactions. Watch for changes in:

Appetite: Is your dog eating the new food willingly?
Stool Quality: Are your dog’s stools firm and well-formed?
Skin Condition: Is your dog’s skin clear and free of itching or rashes?
Energy Level: Is your dog energetic and playful?

If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult with your veterinarian.

4.3. Addressing Potential Digestive Issues

Some dogs may experience digestive issues when switching to a new diet, even with a gradual transition. Here are some tips for addressing these issues:

Probiotics: Adding a probiotic supplement to your dog’s diet can help support healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion.
Digestive Enzymes: Digestive enzymes can help break down food and improve nutrient absorption.
Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can be easier on your dog’s digestive system.
Hydration: Ensure that your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.

4.4. Consulting with a Veterinarian or Veterinary Nutritionist

Before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, consult with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can help you choose the right food for your dog’s individual needs and provide guidance on how to transition safely.

A gradual transition to a new food is essential for preventing digestive upset in dogs.

5. Homemade Chicken-Free Dog Food Recipes

For some pet owners, preparing homemade dog food is a preferred option. Homemade diets allow for complete control over ingredients and can be tailored to your dog’s specific needs. However, it’s crucial to ensure that homemade diets are nutritionally balanced and safe.

5.1. The Importance of Balanced Nutrition

A balanced homemade dog food recipe should include the following:

Protein: A high-quality protein source (e.g., lamb, beef, fish, lentils).
Carbohydrates: A source of carbohydrates for energy (e.g., sweet potatoes, brown rice, oats).
Fats: A source of healthy fats (e.g., fish oil, flaxseed oil).
Vitamins and Minerals: A vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure that all nutritional needs are met.

5.2. Sample Chicken-Free Recipes

Here are two sample chicken-free dog food recipes:

Recipe 1: Lamb and Sweet Potato

3 lbs Ground lamb
4 cups Cooked sweet potato, cubed
1 cup Mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, peas)
2 tablespoons Fish oil
1 teaspoon Vitamin and mineral supplement (specifically formulated for dogs)

Instructions:

Cook the lamb thoroughly. Drain off any excess fat.
Combine the cooked lamb, sweet potato, and mixed vegetables in a large bowl.
Add the fish oil and vitamin/mineral supplement. Mix well.
Portion into appropriate serving sizes and store in the refrigerator or freezer.

Recipe 2: Salmon and Brown Rice

3 lbs Cooked salmon (boneless, skinless)
4 cups Cooked brown rice
1 cup Spinach, chopped
2 tablespoons Olive oil
1 teaspoon Vitamin and mineral supplement (specifically formulated for dogs)

Instructions:

Ensure the salmon is fully cooked and free of bones.
Combine the cooked salmon, brown rice, and spinach in a large bowl.
Add the olive oil and vitamin/mineral supplement. Mix well.
Portion into appropriate serving sizes and store in the refrigerator or freezer.

5.3. Consulting with a Veterinary Nutritionist for Custom Recipes

It is highly recommended to consult with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to develop a custom homemade dog food recipe that meets your dog’s specific needs. They can assess your dog’s age, breed, weight, activity level, and health status to create a recipe that is perfectly balanced and safe.

5.4. Risks and Precautions

Homemade dog food diets can be a great option but come with potential risks:

Nutritional Imbalances: Homemade diets can easily become nutritionally imbalanced if not formulated correctly. This can lead to serious health problems over time.
Food Safety: It’s important to practice proper food safety when preparing homemade dog food to prevent bacterial contamination.
Time Commitment: Preparing homemade dog food requires a significant time commitment.

Important Precautions:

Always cook meat thoroughly to kill bacteria.
Wash your hands and all surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.
Store homemade dog food in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage.
Use high-quality ingredients.
Follow a recipe formulated by a veterinary nutritionist.

Homemade dog food allows for complete control over ingredients but requires careful planning to ensure balanced nutrition.

6. Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies in Chicken-Free Diets

Chicken is a source of several important nutrients. When eliminating chicken from your dog’s diet, it’s essential to ensure that they are still getting adequate amounts of these nutrients from other sources.

6.1. Identifying Potential Deficiencies

Potential nutritional deficiencies in chicken-free diets include:

Protein: Ensure that the alternative protein source provides a complete amino acid profile.
Fat: Chicken fat is a source of essential fatty acids. Ensure that the diet contains adequate amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from other sources like fish oil or flaxseed oil.
B Vitamins: Chicken is a good source of B vitamins. Ensure that the diet contains adequate amounts of B vitamins from other sources like organ meats or supplements.
Trace Minerals: Chicken contains trace minerals like zinc, iron, and copper. Ensure that the diet contains adequate amounts of these minerals from other sources like organ meats or supplements.

6.2. Supplementing the Diet

To address potential nutritional deficiencies, consider supplementing your dog’s diet with the following:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supplement with fish oil or flaxseed oil to provide essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for skin and coat health, joint health, and brain function.
B Vitamins: Supplement with a B-complex vitamin to ensure adequate intake of all B vitamins.
Trace Minerals: Supplement with a trace mineral supplement to ensure adequate intake of zinc, iron, copper, and other essential minerals.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Supplement with vitamin E to support overall health.

6.3. Working with a Veterinary Nutritionist to Ensure Balance

Consulting with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist is the best way to ensure that your dog’s chicken-free diet is nutritionally balanced and meets their specific needs. They can assess your dog’s diet and recommend appropriate supplements to address any potential deficiencies.

6.4. The Role of Organ Meats

Organ meats, such as liver and kidney, are nutritional powerhouses that can be valuable additions to a chicken-free diet. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. However, organ meats should be fed in moderation, as they are also high in cholesterol and certain vitamins that can be toxic in excess.

Supplements can help address potential nutritional deficiencies in chicken-free diets.

7. Understanding E-E-A-T and YMYL in Dog Food Content

Creating trustworthy content about dog food, especially concerning health issues like allergies, requires adhering to E-E-A-T (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) and YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) principles.

7.1. What are E-E-A-T and YMYL?

E-E-A-T: This framework, used by Google to evaluate content quality, emphasizes that information should be created by experts, based on real-world experience, and come from authoritative and trustworthy sources.
YMYL: This refers to topics that can significantly impact a person’s health, financial stability, safety, or well-being. Content related to dog food, especially when discussing allergies and health conditions, falls under YMYL.

7.2. How E-E-A-T Applies to Dog Food Content

To ensure your dog food content meets E-E-A-T standards:

Expertise: Demonstrate knowledge of canine nutrition, allergies, and dog food ingredients. Cite veterinary sources and scientific studies.
Experience: Share personal experiences or case studies of dogs with chicken allergies.
Authoritativeness: Establish yourself as a credible source by providing well-researched and accurate information.
Trustworthiness: Be transparent about your sources and any potential biases. Disclose any affiliations with dog food brands.

7.3. Why YMYL Matters for Dog Food Content

Because dog food choices directly impact a dog’s health, it’s crucial to:

Provide Accurate Information: Avoid making unsubstantiated claims or promoting potentially harmful diets.
Offer Balanced Perspectives: Present different viewpoints on controversial topics like grain-free diets.
Emphasize Veterinary Guidance: Encourage readers to consult with their veterinarian before making significant dietary changes.

7.4. Building Trust with Your Audience

Cite Reputable Sources: Back up your claims with citations from veterinary journals, universities, and reputable pet health organizations.
Use Clear and Understandable Language: Avoid technical jargon that might confuse readers.
Be Transparent About Your Credentials: If you have relevant qualifications or experience, highlight them.
Encourage Reader Feedback: Respond to comments and questions in a helpful and informative manner.

8. Optimizing On-Page SEO for “Dog Food Without Chicken”

To rank well in search engines, your content needs to be optimized for the keyword “dog food without chicken.”

8.1. Keyword Placement

Title Tag: Include the keyword “dog food without chicken” in your title tag.
Meta Description: Write a compelling meta description that includes the keyword and entices users to click.
H1 Heading: Use the keyword “dog food without chicken” in your H1 heading.
Body Content: Naturally incorporate the keyword throughout your body content, especially in the first paragraph.
Image Alt Text: Use descriptive alt text for images that includes the keyword and related terms.

8.2. Creating High-Quality Content

Answer User Questions: Address the most common questions and concerns related to “dog food without chicken.”
Provide Value: Offer practical tips, actionable advice, and in-depth information.
Keep Content Up-to-Date: Regularly update your content to reflect the latest research and recommendations.

8.3. Improving Readability

Use Short Paragraphs: Break up long blocks of text into shorter, more digestible paragraphs.
Use Headings and Subheadings: Organize your content with clear headings and subheadings to improve scannability.
Use Bullet Points and Lists: Present information in bullet points and lists to make it easier to read and understand.
Use Visuals: Incorporate images, videos, and infographics to break up the text and engage readers.

8.4. Mobile Optimization

Ensure Your Website is Mobile-Friendly: Make sure your website is responsive and adapts to different screen sizes.
Use a Mobile-Friendly Font Size: Choose a font size that is easy to read on mobile devices.
Optimize Images for Mobile: Compress images to reduce file size and improve loading speed.

On-page SEO involves optimizing your content and website for search engines and mobile devices.

9. Staying Updated with the Latest Research and Trends

The field of canine nutrition is constantly evolving. It’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends to provide accurate and relevant information to your audience.

9.1. Monitoring Scientific Studies and Veterinary Journals

Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA): This journal publishes research on a wide range of veterinary topics, including nutrition.
American Journal of Veterinary Research (AJVR): This journal focuses on original research in veterinary medicine.
Journal of Animal Science: This journal publishes research on animal nutrition and physiology.

9.2. Following Industry Experts and Organizations

American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN): This organization certifies veterinary nutritionists and provides resources for pet owners.
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA): This organization provides guidelines and resources for small animal veterinarians, including nutrition guidelines.
Pet Food Institute (PFI): This organization represents pet food manufacturers and provides information on pet food safety and nutrition.

9.3. Tracking Emerging Trends in Canine Nutrition

Personalized Nutrition: Tailoring diets to meet the specific needs of individual dogs based on factors like age, breed, activity level, and health status.
The Gut Microbiome: Understanding the role of gut bacteria in canine health and how diet can influence the microbiome.
Novel Protein Sources: Exploring alternative protein sources like insects and algae.
Plant-Based Diets: Evaluating the potential benefits and risks of plant-based diets for dogs.

9.4. Adapting Content to Reflect New Information

As new research and trends emerge, it’s important to update your content to reflect this information. This shows your audience that you are a reliable and trustworthy source of information.

Trend	Description	Implications for Dog Food Without Chicken Content
Personalized Nutrition	Tailoring diets to meet the specific needs of individual dogs based on factors like age, breed, activity level, and health status.	Emphasize the importance of consulting with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog. Highlight the benefits of personalized nutrition plans.
The Gut Microbiome	Understanding the role of gut bacteria in canine health and how diet can influence the microbiome.	Discuss the importance of prebiotics and probiotics for gut health. Recommend chicken-free dog foods that contain these ingredients.
Novel Protein Sources	Exploring alternative protein sources like insects and algae.	Introduce readers to novel protein sources and discuss their potential benefits. Recommend chicken-free dog foods that contain these ingredients.
Plant-Based Diets	Evaluating the potential benefits and risks of plant-based diets for dogs.	Provide a balanced perspective on plant-based diets for dogs. Discuss the potential benefits and risks, and emphasize the importance of consulting with a veterinarian.

10. Answering Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Addressing common questions about “dog food without chicken” can improve your content’s relevance and user engagement.

10.1. Sample FAQs

Why is chicken a common allergen in dogs?
What are the symptoms of a chicken allergy in dogs?
How can I tell if my dog is allergic to chicken?
What are some good chicken-free dog food brands?
What are some alternative protein sources for dogs with chicken allergies?
Is grain-free dog food always chicken-free?
How do I transition my dog to a chicken-free diet?
What should I do if my dog has digestive issues after switching to a chicken-free diet?
Can I make my own chicken-free dog food?
Are there any nutritional deficiencies I should be aware of when feeding my dog a chicken-free diet?

10.2. Providing Clear and Concise Answers

When answering FAQs, provide clear and concise answers that are easy to understand. Use simple language and avoid technical jargon.

10.3. Linking to Relevant Content

Link to other relevant content on your website or blog to provide readers with more in-depth information.

10.4. Updating FAQs Regularly

Review and update your FAQs regularly to ensure that they are accurate and up-to-date.

If you’re struggling to find reliable information or need personalized advice, FOODS.EDU.VN is here to help. Our website offers a wealth of knowledge, from detailed recipes to expert articles, all designed to empower you to make the best choices for your canine companion.

Visit FOODS.EDU.VN today and unlock a world of culinary wisdom. For personalized guidance, reach out to us at 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States, or connect via WhatsApp at +1 845-452-9600. Let foods.edu.vn be your trusted partner in providing delicious and nutritious meals for your furry friend.