Feeding dogs, a raw diet has gained immense popularity in recent years. It involves offering them a diet mainly consisting of uncooked meat, bones, and organs. While this approach to feeding dogs might seem unconventional, it is based on the idea that dogs evolved by eating a diet rich in raw meat and that this is the best way to provide them with the essential nutrients they need. This article will delve into the evolution and science behind fresh dog food.
The Evolution of & Science behind Raw Food
Evolution of Raw Food
Dogs are descended from wolves and, throughout thousands of years, have developed into the tame pets we know today. In the past, dogs were considered scavengers that dined on the leftovers of human food and the remnants of a game that had been killed. As they developed throughout their evolutionary history, dogs' digestive systems adapted to a diet that was heavy in protein and low in carbs.
The theory behind raw dog food, commonly known as the "BARF" diet (which stands for "Biologically Appropriate Raw Food"), is that dogs evolved to ingest a diet that is abundant in meat, bones, and organs. This theory underpins the raw food diet. The proponents of this method think that dogs have not progressed to the point where they can properly digest and absorb manufactured meals and that a diet based on raw components is more similar to what dogs would have consumed in their natural condition.
Science behind Raw Food
The theory behind the use of raw food is that canines have digestive systems that are optimized to process and use raw and fresh foods as part of their diet. The purpose of feeding your dog raw food is to ensure that they get all the vital nutrients they need, such as high-quality protein, beneficial fats, vitamins, minerals, and important amino acids.
Raw food has several advantages, but one of the most important ones is that it contains a lot of moisture, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Dogs with a diet composed mostly of raw foods have a reduced risk of developing digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Raw food is low in carbs, which is desirable for dogs prone to gaining excess weight or having diabetes. This is yet another essential characteristic of raw food. The digestibility of raw food is greater than that of cooked dog food, which means that dogs are better able to take in and use the nutrients that are included in the food they eat.
Disadvantages of Raw Food
Bacterial Contamination
Raw food can contain bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, harming both dogs and humans. It is essential to handle and store raw food properly to minimize the risk of contamination.
Cost
Raw food can be more expensive than commercial kibble or canned food.
Preparation Time
Raw food requires preparation, including measuring, mixing, and thawing ingredients, which can be time-consuming.
Nutritional Imbalance
Without proper guidance, it cannot be easy to ensure that a raw food diet provides all the necessary nutrients for a dog's health.
Accessibility
Finding the ingredients for a raw food diet can be challenging in some areas, and it may not be available in all locations.
Risk of Foodborne Illnesses
Feeding raw meat to dogs can also increase the risk of foodborne illnesses like salmonella or E. coli infections.
Safety Concerns
Handling raw meat, bones, and organs can also pose a risk to human health if not handled properly. It is important to follow safe food handling procedures to minimize the risk of contamination.
Providing a Well-Rounded Menu
The raw food diet balance is a concern for many.
Since (1) every dog is unique and (2) there has been no sustained study of raw-fed dogs.
However, meal formulators and raw food firms use Animal Diet Formulators. That has helped people figure out how much dog food supplementation to give to their dogs or pups.
Harmony with Time
Since wild dogs don't eat three balanced meals daily, there's no reason my dogs should either.
You should feed your adult canines Darwin's Pet raw food or consult a meal formulator to ensure your dog's homemade diet is well-balanced.
How to Feed 80/10/10 Plus
There won't be any calculator to use here. Instead, use an 80/10/10 approximation. Combine the meat, organs, and bone with any other supplements or mix you may use. Include fermented fish stock, vegetables, and nuts to promote healthy gut bacteria.
Conclusion
The raw food diet assumes dogs evolved to eat meat, bones, and organs. This feeding method provides dogs with high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and vital amino acids. Raw food advocates say providing dogs with a balanced and healthy diet is the greatest method.
