Dogs And Raw Food

The typical American pet is not starved for food. However, dogs may be starved for nutrition. Commercial pet foods often are poor in nutrition due to the highly processed nature of the ingredients. The rise in vet bills and animal based health issues can be traced back to the poor nutrition in commercial based pet food. Introducing raw food into an animal’s diet has led, in numerous cases, to a decrease in poor skin & coat conditions, eye or ear infections, as well as dental issues.  Some instances of severe health conditions such as obesity and cancer have also been altered through introducing raw food into a dog’s diet.

The Fallacy Of Commercial

Commercial dog food is marketed toward humans. Pets would not choose a bowl of dry kibble or canned wet food over raw unless they are conditioned to do so. The added color and fun shapes found in dog food are only beneficial to the human psyche. Feeding a variety of food presented in an easy manner with pleasurable presentation is the key to many successful restaurants. This is because humans eat with their eyes and need that variety to acquire nutrition. Dogs are animals and, thus, different from humans. Their nutritional needs are carnivorous. Feeding a grain based commercial dog food will only leave your dog’s nutrition on low and they will not thrive.

The other lie associated with commercial dog food is the idea of portion control. Dogs, like their wild ancestors, will not overeat when fed the proper nutrition rich foods. Over eating commercial dog food is due to a nutrition deficiency. This can lead to obesity and consequentially bone and joint issues. Dogs are carnivores; they need raw meat to thrive and they will listen to their bodies. A dog will know when it is time to stop eating, if the food is delivering the nutrition they need. A raw food fed dog will not eat itself sick.

Thriving On Raw

The ability of dogs to thrive on raw dog food is based on history. The commercial dog food industry has not been around very long, compared to the domestic history of dogs. Before the existence of commercial dog food factories, dogs lived on meat scraps, table scraps and, as animals, they caught fresh meat on their own. These sources were not perfect, but they did allow the dog to maintain healthy nutrition because the dogs had more of a choice in what food they ate. A raw food fed dog must have access to a two parts meat, one part vegetable diet. Closely observing your pet’s behavior towards their raw food will tell you how much of what kind they want or need.

Feeding raw meat and vegetables to your dog will increase their health, thus balancing out the cost of caring for them. A healthier dog does not need medication, nor does it need to go to the vet as often. Their coat will shine with health; they will have more energy and be happier. All of these benefits are due to a balanced nutritional diet.

Many leading pet nutritionists and holistic vets are suggesting the raw food diet for dogs. Their nutritional needs are much different from humans and should be considered carefully. Raw dog food is a healthier, often cheaper, wholesome alternative to commercial pet food.