The benefits of raw food diets for dogs

If you’ve decided to become a puppy parent, it’s a decision you won’t regret. There is no doubt that a furry companion will bring endless joy to your life, but as a responsible dog owner, there are several practicalities you’ll also need to consider. One of the most important choices you’ll need to make for your dog will be their diet. You are what you eat, as they say, and this also applies to man’s best friend.

There is a lot of debate as to what type of dog food is best. Wet vs.dry dog food is a debate that has been raging for years. There are several experts that sing the praises of grain-free puppy food. Should you go the extra mile and make home-made dog food for puppies? And have you considered raw food for dogs?

Seeing as it’s causing quite the stir within the world of dog food, let’s look at the pros of raw food for your pooch.

Better for digestion

Dogs have short digestive systems that limit their ability to digest fiber-rich plant foods. With raw food being mostly meat-based, it is far easier for dogs to digest. Many dog owners who advocate a raw food diet comment that it allows for better digestion, which means fewer, firmer, and smaller stools — which are easier for you to manage when it comes to poop scoop time.

Fewer allergic reactions

Eating raw is closer to what dogs would eat had they not been domesticated. Exposure to common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy results in a reaction among many breeds. As raw food tends to be grain and gluten-free this downgrades the risk of an allergic reason. Being nutritionally rich also contributes to resolving environmental allergies.

Shinier coats

We all want our pooches to look good without having to spend a small fortune on dog grooming services. It is said that a fresh, natural raw diet provides dogs with all the nutrients for healthy skin and a shiny coat – especially when one considers the essential fatty acids that are abundant in raw food.

Increased alertness and energy levels

Highly processed foods can make dogs lethargic. While no one wants to deal with a hyperactive puppy the whole time, we want our dogs to have fun and exude energy. The good nutrients available in raw food has resulted in increased energy levels for many dogs, which also has repercussions on the dog’s alertness.

Cleaner teeth and better breath

We love kisses and cuddles from our doggies, but their breath can often be rather unpleasant, with the majority of dogs suffering some form of periodontal disease. The process of chewing raw meats and raw bones is great for helping to scrape plaque off a dog’s teeth which subsequently leads to cleaner teeth and fresh breath.

If you’re considering feeding raw food to your dog, it’s important to remember that each dog is different. Some take to it naturally and others will struggle, but it is certainly a lesser-known option that is worth considering when you factor in the advantages we’ve discussed. Remember changing a diet can also be tricky, especially for those with sensitive digestion, so speak to your vet before jumping in.

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