Amaranth belongs to the pseudo-grain family. This is because, botanically speaking, it belongs to the goose foot family of plants and not to the family of sweet grasses. The grasses are considered the conventional grain. The name comes from the Greek and means as much as not wilting or immortal.

The name is indicative of the power inherent in this plant.

Amaranth has a significantly lower carbohydrate content than cereals. However, these are especially good and easy to use and are available to the body in the form of long-lasting energy. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as Omega 3 and Omega 6 and also contains all the essential amino acids and has a high protein content, higher than any conventional cereal. In addition, amaranth contains lysine and lecithin, which ensure healthy bones, strong tissue and good brain function.

Amino acids are the basis of all life processes, as they are absolutely indispensable for every metabolic process. The most important tasks are the transportation and storage of all nutrients (water, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and vitamins). They are therefore essential for the complete metabolism.

The amino acids are:

1. Arginine is involved in numerous metabolic processes, it is important in heart disease and high blood pressure, improves blood circulation and strengthens the immune system.
2. Glutamine has the largest amount of free amino acids in the body at 60%. Among other things, it regulates the acid-alkaline balance and has an immune-strengthening effect.
3. Ornithine (L-ornithine) is produced from L-arginine by means of adding water (hydrolysis) to release urea. It supports detoxification and contributes to the health of the liver.
4. Carnitine is made from lysine and methionine. It is important for the energy metabolism of cells, improves the energy supply of the brain cells and contributes to increased stress resistance.
5. Methionine is a sulfur-containing amino acid and plays an important role in the synthesis of many important proteins. In addition, it has a fat-dissolving effect and restricts fat deposits in the liver.
6. Taurine is a breakdown product of the sulfur-containing amino acids cysteine and methionine. It maintains the organ and cell functions. Taurine stabilises the fluid balance of the cells and has an antioxidant effect. At the same time it is extremely important for the heart muscle, as their concentration is significantly higher in the cardiac muscle cells.

Biotin, as vitamin B7 belongs to the vitamin B complex and is a component of enzymes. It takes part in many metabolic processes such as the carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. Biotin is involved in cell growth as well as in DNA and protein synthesis. In addition, it can activate the metabolism and promote the regeneration of skin and coat. It is a water-soluble vitamin, which is broken down by the body and mostly excreted in urine or stool.

Signs of biotin deficiency are among others:

• Extreme moulting
• Dull coat
• Weak pigmentation of the coat
• Skin disorders
• Brittle claws
• Susceptibility to infection
• Lack of appetite
• Movement disorders
• Disorders of the heart function.

Choline is a vitamin-like substance that can be synthesized by the body itself. Similar to the amino acid methionine, choline acts as a methyl group donor. These protect, among other things, the cells, control the fat-carbohydrate-protein metabolism and detoxify the body. Choline is often added to feed in the form of choline chloride. In its natural form, it is found mainly in egg yolk and beef liver.

Chondroitin sulfate is formed in cartilage cells and is the matrix of articular cartilage. It gives the cartilage back its stability.

Cranberries have a slightly anti-inflammatory effect. They have a high content of phytochemicals and antioxidants and can thus reduce the formation of dental plaque. Bioactive substances protect against disease.
Beta carotene and anthocyanins that work against free radicals (which are responsible for the ageing of the skin and the organism) can be used to achieve an anti-ageing effect.
They also have a positive effect on the brain and its function and strengthen memory. Cranberries protect the collagen in the skin (it stays firm). This strengthens the tissue.

Through the variety of phytochemicals and vitamins as well as minerals, cranberries strengthen the immune system by effectively supporting it. They fight viruses and bacteria and counteract reactions to inflammation. The berries help wherever the mucous membrane is irritated or altered. They protect the mucosal cells from harmful influences and strengthen the cell walls.

This applies to both bladder and urethra, as well as to the gastrointestinal system and other vessels, all of which are lined with sensitive cells.

Cranberries can have beneficial effects on:

• Teeth and dental plaque
• The immune system
• The memory
• The ageing of the cells.

Essential fatty acids are the fatty acids that the organism can not produce itself. However, our body needs fatty acids to live, most of which it can produce itself.

Therefore, they must be obtained through the nutrition.

Essential fatty acids are also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids and are classified into omega 3 and omega 6. They are found in:

• Omega 3: e.g. Fish, walnuts and rapeseed
• Omega 6: e.g. Sunflower seeds, wheat germ, sesame, soya beans and corn.

Fatty acids can be divided into three groups: 

• saturated
• monounsaturated
• polyunsaturated / essential

The saturated fatty acids are mainly found in animal foods, such as in butter, cream, meat and sausage products, but also in coconut oil, palm oil and chocolate.

The monounsaturated fatty acids are mainly present in  foods from a vegetable origin. Olive oil and avocados provide high levels of unsaturated fatty acids. These have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system as well as on cholesterol levels.

The polyunsaturated (essential) fatty acids can not be produced by our body and must be obtained from food. They are particularly important because they are part of cell membranes and play a major role in many metabolic processes. The most important agents are linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpa-linolenic acid (omega-3).

FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides) are multiple sugars composed of several fructose molecules. They are therefore counted among the carbohydrates.

However, because the FOS are not digested by the enzymes in the small intestine, much of it goes into the colon. Here they serve as nutrient to certain bacteria in the rear of the small intestine.

This is how the growth of “desirable” bacteria is promoted while the formation of “unwanted” germs is reduced.

The intestinal flora is strengthened. As a result, the metabolism and digestion are improved.

Therefore FOS are counted among the prebiotics, the probiotic acting nutrients.

The “meat content” in a dry nutritional product is the so-called “fresh meat equivalent value”. Here, the fresh meat, which we use for our dry nutrition, is subjected to a complex process for drying. In this process, the water contained is gently removed from the fresh meat. As a result of this process of drying, the meat weighs significantly less (about 3 times less). Nevertheless, all nutrients and proteins are preserved, so the proportion remains.

A claim of a proportion of 72% is stated on the packing of the example product, Best Choice Lamb and Rice. This corresponds to the nutritional value of 720g of fresh meat in 1kg of dry nutrition. The value of 24% lamb in the declaration corresponds to the dried protein (meat) of lamb. If you multiple this dried value by 3 (if the missing water was added), you get the value of 72%. This is the “fresh meat equivalent”.

The EU has strict guidelines for the production of dog food and as a German company, our products stand for quality “Made in Germany”, which, of course means that we produce our dry nutrition in Germany.

The production accelerates with the introduction of the new fresh meat production 

Dr.Clauder is a medium-sized family business from the Lower Rhine with a long tradition. Resulting in decades of expertise in the production of food and nutritional supplements for dogs and cats. We are an owner-managed, modern and globally operating company and stand for the highest quality “Made in Germany”. In addition to the premium brand Dr.Clauder’s, private label premium products are also produced in our production.

The private label products are produced among others, for:

• the pharmaceutical industry
• the veterinary sector
• the drug store
• the food retailer
• the discounter supermarket
• as well as franchise and chain store companies

Our quality standards are made possible in our own production through innovative research and development. Our products offer sustainable added value. That is the reason why we renew our certification of IFS Food, a strict food standard recognized by EU directives, every year.

Curiosity, creativity and the joy of innovation characterise our commitment to meet ever-changing demands. For this reason, the Dr.Clauder Group can already meet the trend of the growing international pet food and snack market. In 2017, the building and machinery were expanded, as well as investing in additional skilled workers. After a nine-month test phase, the fresh meat production for snacks was introduced in 2018.

the production

But how can high-quality meat products in paste form such as pork or veal liver sausage, salmon cream and game pâté be made in Germany?

First, ingredients such as the precooked meat, the broth (meat juice) and herbs are stirred to a homogeneous cream in the cutter. The pâté is then portioned into tubes by means of a filler. These tubes offer the end consumer a handy and high quality convenient feeding.

After filling, the tubes must still be sterilised. The products are stabilised in the sterilisation process. They are thus autoclaved and can be sold and consumed without refrigeration at room temperature within the shelf life of 24 months.

Only now can the high quality tubes, e.g. the Dr.Clauder’s Snack IT Liver Cream Poultry “Made in Germany” be stored in our warehouse and finally sold in large quantities to the specialised trade or private label partners.

Gelatin hydrolyzate contains the amino acids glycine and proline, of about 10 to 20 times the concentration compared to meat. These two amino acids are important components of connective tissue. Therefore, it is used to treat and prevent musculoskeletal disorders. Laboratory tests have proved that it leads to an increased formation of components of cartilage, tendons and joints.

Glucosamine is an important, natural building block of articular cartilage. It supports the formation of the synovial fluid, which ensures that a joint is, in the truest sense of the word “well oiled”. The more D-glucosamine is available to the body, the better synovial fluid can be formed. Glucosamine should always be associated with chondroitin so that the articular cartilage remains well moistened and elastic.

Green-lipped mussel is traditionally used in joint ailments, as the flesh of the green-lipped mussel promotes joint lubrication. Furthermore, due to the natural lyprinol contained, it has an additional anti-inflammatory effect in arthritic and asthmatic diseases.

It is assigned the following properties:
• Pain-relieving
• Anti-inflammatory
• Joint-lubricating
• Cartilage protecting

Green-lipped mussel also supports the body with substances that are important for the structure and function of connective tissue, ligaments and cartilage.

Chemically, hyaluronic acid is seen as a chain of sugar molecules that occur naturally in the body. It can bind about 6000 times more water than its own weight. Therefore, it is responsible for the joints suppleness and flexibility. The articular surfaces of the body are composed of cartilage. These are kept supple and intact by hyaluronic acid in the function of synovial fluid. Because the cartilage mass is infolded by hyaluronic acid, which ensures optimal mobility of the joints and provides protection. But with increasing age and under particular stress, wear can be seen in joints.

Inulin is a special fibre that can increase the absorption of calcium and magnesium. Consequently it ensures that the body can store these minerals better. Inulin is a pre biotic soluble fibre.

It is found in, for example:

• Jerusalem artichokes
• Onions
• Salsify
• Artichoke hearts
• Chicory.

Inulin has a positive influence on the intestinal flora and causes the good intestinal bacteria (lactobacteria and bifidobacteria) to settle, while reducing unwanted intestinal residents. It also has the property of being able to bind water and is therefore also used as a thickener.

Lactobacillus Paracasei is a strain of beneficial, pro biotic lactic acid bacteria. They were used in 2011 for the first time specifically against developing caries, due to these properties. In other words, they are able to specifically detect and remove caries bacteria.

L-carnitine is a naturally occurring chemical compound of the amino acids lysine and methionine. It is essential for the energy metabolism of all cells.
For this reason, it promotes a better conversion of fatty acids and is considered as performance enhancing in competitive sports. The body burns fat as a fuel during physical exertion.

Lecithin is a fat-like substance that is extremely important for the function of the brain, as it ensures the smooth transmission of nerve impulses. In addition, lecithin is an elementary cell building block of all metabolic processes of animal life. It supports the enzyme activity and protects liver and blood circulation and improves digestibility.

It is therefore an ideal ingredient for skin and coat treatment and can also increase the vitality of the ageing dog.
It improves the conductivity of the synapses and their growth for the brain and nerves.

Linoleic acid is probably the most important essential fatty acid, as this fatty acid is doubly unsaturated. It is one of the omega-6 fatty acids.

Linoleic acid can stabilise the structures of cell membranes and the skin. In addition, it can increase muscle growth and also promote fat burning.

Lysine is an essential (vital) amino acid that the body can not produce itself. As a result, it must be supplied with the daily nutrition or as nutritional supplements.

Foods in which lysine is commonly found are, for example:

• Soya bean sprouts
• Green vegetables
• Parsley
• Celery
• Orange fruits
• Pears
• Grapes

Furthermore, lysine is particularly involved in bone growth and tissue repair. It can also boost the immune system.

Magnesium has the main task to activate enzymes in the context of energy metabolism. The magnesium is mainly involved in the functional processes of muscles and nerves.

It is attributed as having a positive effect against stress and for more energy.

Magnesium is the antagonist to the mineral calcium. Where increased calcium intake can lead to cramping and muscle tension, magnesium provides relaxation.

Manganese is an essential (vital) trace element. The largest proportion of manganese is found in the bones, and in comparison to other organs, the liver, kidneys and pancreas also have a high manganese content. It is a component of various enzymes and responsible for activating some enzymes and thus triggering specific reactions in the body. For example, manganese is involved in the formation of connective tissue, the formation of urea and the production of endogenous proteins and fatty acids.

Mannan-oligosaccharides are extracted from yeast cell walls. These are natural sugar complexes, i.e. fibre that can not be digested by the animal. Instead, they help to feed beneficial bacteria. In so doing, they have a positive effect on the development of healthy intestinal bacteria. In particular, these sugars only stimulate the benign microflora of the intestine, leading to better health. As a result, the immune system in the gut is strengthened. Mannan-oligosaccharides are successfully used in livestock as an aid in stress-related disorders that cause an imbalance of the benign microflora. MOS stimulate slime-forming cells, they promote the formation of a protective layer against disease causing germs. As a result, the germs can no longer adhere well and multiply on the intestinal wall. A weakened intestine can also be strengthened, as it can regenerate better and faster under the mucus layer.

To summarise, mannan-oligosaccharides:

• feed the good intestinal bacteria
• act pre biotic
• help build a healthy intestinal flora
• help with the regeneration of the intestinal flora
• and thereby strengthen the immune system.

Margosa extract is obtained from the seeds of the neem tree. It consists of about 98% natural fatty acids, such as; oleic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid and stearic acid. In addition, also 2-3% from biologically active limonoids, such as, nimbin, salannin, azadirachtin A and other azadirachtins. The neem tree is a fast-growing, evergreen tree. It grows between 15 – 40m in height. In addition, the tree can be as old as 200 years. The neem tree grows in a tropical to subtropical climate.

Products made from neem tree parts have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Therefore, they can be used as an insecticide, fungicide, spermicide, fertilizer and feed.

The Margosa Extract is a natural protection against ticks, fleas and other pests. It works purely biologically with the active ingredients of margosa and lavender oil. This herbal extract is a natural repellent. This pure active ingredient is reliable in its effect and is toxicologically harmless. It is free of negative effects, when used properly.

Methionine is an essential and sulfur-containing amino acid. It is considered a precursor of the amino acids cysteine and taurine. In addition, methionine in the body helps to prevent excessive fat deposits in the liver. In addition, it supports the regeneration of the liver and kidneys.

Methionine is found in:

• Fish
• Meat
• Vegetables (broccoli, green peas, Brussels sprouts, spinach)
• Egg
• Whole grain bread
• Rice.

A deficiency manifests itself in metabolic disorders such as a fatty liver, skin and hair growth disorders, fatigue, lethargy and the occurrence of depressive moods.

In pet nutrition, methionine increases the nutritional value of the feed. Also acidifies the urine and can act against struvite stones.

Micro silver releases small amounts of silver ions. The silver ions settle on the skin’s surface and have a local antibacterial effect. This makes it difficult for the bacteria to remain adhered to the tooth.

Micro silver can be used for the prophylaxis and reduction of tartar. The combination of medical micro silver and cranberry juice concentrate is the ideal combination for the effective control of plaque.

In the case of bacteria, cranberries block the group of enzymes that are responsible for building plaque and thus prevent the formation of plaque.

„The less normal I feed my pet, the more sensitive it becomes“ 

Healthy eating styles have been a trend among Germans for years. Gluten- or lactose-free foods are on everyone’s lips. And so it is no surprise that many pet owners want to feed their four-legged friends healthily. Pet food expert Hans-Jochen Büngener confirms that: “All human Trends land in the pet market after a year. The industry has adapted to this“. From the expert, who was a board member of the Central Association of Zoological Specialists (Zentralverband Zoologischer Fachbetriebe ZZF) for many years and heads the Interzoo trade fair committee

A healthy dog can tolerate cereals

The expert sees the desire for grain-free pet nutrition, at least for healthy animals, rather critically. Pet owners often claim that their dogs and cats itching or indigestion is caused by allergies or gluten intolerances, so they reject food containing cereal. „Many allergies are caused by environmental influences“, emphasizes the expert. Grain free feeding may be the trend, but that does not mean that it is better for every animal. Basically healthy dogs can tolerate cereals, because the starch is made digestible by heating. Even wolves consume plants and cereals via the intestinal contents of their prey.

Raw feeding requires supplements

Are you still feeding or are you “BARFing” already? Another pet food trend can be addressed with this question. The BARF method, usually called “biologically appropriate raw feeding” in German, originated from the wish to feed our four-legged animals as naturally as possible. „Dog owners try to take over food production on their own“, says expert Büngener. Rations of meat, offal and bones, are fed raw and supplemented with vegetables or fruit.

Dogs are no longer wolves

However: “Dogs are no longer wolves. Many do not like raw meat. In addition, it is safer to heat the meat because of possible germ contamination. However, those who would rather feed raw meat must ensure that the raw meat reaches the food bowl, in food quality, and in compliance with the prescribed uninterrupted cooling chain and hygiene measures. According to Büngener, the BARF method requires some knowledge from dog owners. In any case, vegetable protein carriers and active ingredients such as minerals, vitamins and trace elements must be added to the meat. The dogs depend on the appropriate ratio of supplements in order to be able to utilise the food properly. Pet food manufacturers have taken up the trend by offering ready-made BARF blends and the perfect complementary nutrition.

Expert Büngener recommends higher-quality nutrition from the specialised trade. “The rule is: the less normal I feed my pet, the more sensitive it becomes.“ Diet food, for example, is only made for special situations. “If I want to do something good for my dog with particularly expensive dietary foods, that will not solve any problems – it may even create some”, concludes Büngener. In the diet, it is important to observe the living conditions of the animal: An active dog, for example, consumes more calories; An older or calmer dog needs less calories and more fibre to stimulate bowel movement. In the pet food sector, there are still trend-setting product lines that take into account the individual needs of the respective animal species and also do without flavour enhancers, preservatives or colourings. „This should make it possible for every owner to be able to avoid obesity, indigestion and allergies for their pet”, according to Büngeners conclusion.

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fatty acid, therefore, they are vital. They are abundant in the following foods, for example, in sea fish, linseed oil, walnuts and walnut oil, as well as rapeseed and soya bean oil. They are an important component of healthy cell membranes in all tissues. Accordingly, also in the membranes of the brain and nerve cells. They are considered more as anti-inflammatory.

But what exactly are Omega-3 fatty acids needed for?

The valuable fatty acids are used almost everywhere in the body:

• Production of hormones
• Protein synthesis
• Cell metabolism
• Supply the joints with lubricant
• Avoidance of inflammation
• Moisture and elasticity of skin and hair
• Formation of the body’s own defence cells
• Protection against infectious diseases

In addition, they have a positive effect on:

• Brain power and vision
• Blood lipid levels
• Blood circulation
• Prevention of heart attacks
• Weakening the course of chronic inflammation

Omega 6 fatty acids are among the essential fatty acids and are therefore vital. They are mainly contained in animal fats, for example, chicken fat, lard, eggs, bacon and sausages. In addition, however, they are also found in foods from vegetable origins, such as margarine, sunflower oil and grapeseed oil.

The ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids should always be balanced: no more than 4 times as much omega 6 fatty acids as omega 3 fatty acids. Otherwise, the omega 6 fatty acids can have an adverse effect and cause inflammation.
In optimal proportions, they make a great contribution to the:

• Healing of wounds
• Defences against infection
• Growth

Omega 9 fatty acids, the so-called “oleic acids”, are found, for example, in olive oil and other edible oils.

Unlike the omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, it is not vital to include this in the nutrition, as it can be produced by itself. Omega 9 fatty acids are a very good source of energy and have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. In addition, they reduce the incorporation of saturated fatty acids in the cell membrane. This promotes the elasticity of the blood vessels, the communication of nerve cells and the suppleness of the skin.

They are considered beneficial in:

• Lowering cholesterol
• Promoting blood circulation

Phosphorus is one of the essential (vital) minerals. It is absorbed through the nutrition as phosphate. The body absorbs only as much as it needs. The rest is excreted via the kidneys.

In addition to calcium, phosphorus is the most abundant mineral in the body. In conjunction with calcium, it ensures the strength of bones and teeth. In addition, it provides the cells with important energy.

Selenium is a component of an enzyme. The enzyme binds free radicals that are produced by the damage of fatty acids by oxygen. It is also one of the essential (vital) trace elements. In addition, selenium is also involved in the formation of thyroid hormones.

Selenium as an additive to nutrition, can favourably influence the course of cardiovascular diseases and strengthen the immune system.

The following foods contain selenium:

• Fish and seafood
• Meat and poultry
• Nuts
• Whole grain rice & wholemeal bread

Sodium is an essential (vital) mineral. Specifically, in other words, this occurs as a positively charged particle in the body. Sodium contributes to the build-up of electrical voltage in the cell membranes and is important for the transmission of nerve impulses, but also for muscle work.

The spirulina-algae is classified as a superfood. The content of nutrients and vital substances, enzymes and chlorophyll is very high. 

Spirulina is attributed the following effects:

• Activation of self-healing powers
• Supports the regeneration of the body
• Boosts the immune system (here the phagocytes)
• Has an antiviral effect
• Reduces allergic reactions by inhibiting the release of histamine
• Can reduce blood sugar levels
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-carcinogenic
• Slows the ageing process of the body by improving cellular respiration.

Vitamin A can be absorbed directly by the consumption of food from animal origin. The pro vitamin A (beta-carotene), which is found in plants, is converted by the body into vitamin A. Vitamin A can influence the visual process, the structure of the skin and the mucous membranes by promoting cell growth. It prevents damage to the DNA in the skin cells.

Yeast beta glucan is a natural polysaccharide (multiple sugar) and is derived from baker’s yeast. 

Beta-glucan (beta-1.3/1.6-glucan) is, according to many scientific studies, one of the most effective natural influencers of the immune system.

Macrophages are an integral part of the general immune system, they can dissolve bacteria directly by phagocytosis (incorporate, eat) and transport them out of the body. Macrophages are constantly involved in the detoxification of the body and intestinal flora. In addition, they have an anti-infective and tumor-protective effect. In addition, they release important enzymes, proteins and lipids, which then communicate with other cells of the immune system. This continues to activate them. If the beta-1.3/1.6-glucan molecule docks onto a receptor site of a macrophage, this strengthens the macrophage and, so to speak, makes it “active”. Now possible attackers are better recognised and the non-specific (innate) immune system goes into action. In addition, the specific (acquired) defence is triggered with the help of messenger substances.

Beta-glucans are often used when a dog recovers after an illness to support the weakened immune system. Likewise, they are often used in puppy rearing.

Yucca extract contains many saponins which are considered to be bowel cleansing. The soap-like substances absorb toxins in the digestive tract and dissolve deposits in the intestine. This happens very gradually and gently. Studies show that yucca also has a positive effect on joints and blood vessels. Especially with arthritis and rheumatism. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can also be lowered with Yucca. The sapponins prevent too much cholesterol from being absorbed into the blood stream from the body, it ensures that the dietary cholesterol remains in the intestine and is excreted and does not enter the body.

Zinc is a trace element which is present only in very small amounts in the body. It still plays an important role because it is an indispensable part of many enzymes. Many biochemical processes in the body could not occur without zinc, so the trace element is essential (vital). It is especially important for the regeneration of skin and hair, wound healing, digestion, blood formation and the immune system.