How does raw food support health issues in dogs?

Life Stage Specific Nutrition

Our nutritionist highlights the importance of tailoring raw food to different life stages.

Puppies

Puppy meals have a different calcium and phosphorus ratio compared to adult or senior meals. This is crucial to prevent their bones from growing too quickly and avoid issues like bone spurs.  Puppy meals also have a higher protein content (85-90%), which is essential for growth and repair, as well as B vitamins for energy metabolism to support their active lifestyle. 

Senior Dogs

For senior dogs, raw food can be formulated to include anti-inflammatory ingredients in ranges like "superfood" options. Ingredients such as turmeric and ginger can help reduce inflammation and soothe digestion.

High Moisture Content

Moisture content as a key benefit for cats, it's a general characteristic of raw food (70-75% moisture). Adequate hydration is important for overall health in dogs and supports various bodily functions.

Quality of Ingredients

The quality of ingredients in raw food can be superior compared to other options. This includes using higher value meats like grass-fed beef and lamb, and higher welfare turkey and chicken. Grass-fed animals tend to have higher amounts of vitamin D. Higher welfare meat is associated with less antibiotics. The quality of the animal's diet directly impacts the quality of the meat and subsequently the health benefits for the pet. 

Improved Digestion through Preparation

The process of shredding carrots and vegetables in some raw food preparations starts the digestive process by breaking down the food. Dogs have very little or no salivary amylase in their mouths, which in humans starts carbohydrate digestion. Therefore, the mechanical breakdown through shredding increases the surface area, making it easier for dogs to digest and absorb nutrients in their stomach. This can potentially help with issues like bloating.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omegas are included in both puppy and adult recipes and are supportive. Omega-3s are beneficial for reducing skin dryness and inflammation, thus potentially alleviating itchy skin and dandruff. They also contribute to improved joint health.

Gut Health

There's a fundamental role of gut health in overall well-being. A balanced raw diet, avoiding ultra-processed ingredients, can help in sealing and healing the gut, promoting the right bacterial balance and efficient digestion. This can have positive knock-on effects on various systems, including the skin and joints, due to the reduction of inflammation.

Weight Management

Providing the correct calorific value and nutrients in raw food helps prevent animals from constantly seeking more nutrients and overeating calories, which can lead to obesity. It's important to note that while raw feeding can offer these benefits, individual needs can vary, and any significant health concerns should always be discussed with a veterinarian.