Your Dog and His Diet
Natural Diets for Your Dog
Dogs are carnivores and the best diet for dogs is a natural diet, as close to what would be eaten in the wild as possible. However, even in the wild, the dog does not eat meat alone.
Vegetables should comprise approximately 25% of the dog’s natural diet. Some animals like them raw, other prefer them steamed, pureed or boiled. The preferred method is pureed as it is closer to what would be found inside the intestinal tract of a prey animal, partially digested. The cellulose must be broken down. Grains, according to Dr. Ian Billinghurst, originator of the raw diet for dogs, are not a natural food for dogs. It is not something they would eat in the wild. The actual grains that dogs do get in the wild, are derived from their prey animals as well, and are also partially digested. Pumpkin, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini are among the popular vegetables to include in a natural diet for your dog. Fruits should be included sparingly. In some of the premium commercial foods, fruits that are high in antioxidants are included as ingredients, such as blueberries and apples.
Protein content should be approximately 25% but this may be dependent upon you dog’s age, physical condition, activity level, and any other specific needs and feeding requirements. If the meat is raw and you are certain of its origins it is safely given to your dog in that state. Organ meats may be fed to your pet at least once to twice weekly.
Raw chicken necks and turkey necks are also acceptable as part of the natural diet. DO NOT allow your canine to eat cooked poultry bones. They are too soft. Raw chicken, turkey, beef, and lamb are highly acceptable forms of protein for a natural diet.
Because many dogs are lactose intolerant, it is wise to stay away from cow’s milk. Cultured dairy products seem to be much better tolerated. Yogurt, kefir, and cheese are excellent additions to the canine diet. Eggs can be included at least two times per week. With the addition of essential fatty acids, glucosamine, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C you can provide a strong nutritional base for your dog.
Natural diets begin with species appropriate nutrition. In the case of dogs, this means bones, vegetation, and meat. The food does not necessarily need to be cooked. Because of the structure of a dog’s digestive system, they are able to accommodate raw foods. All of the ingredients of the canine natural raw diet should be high grade and good enough for human consumption.
Freshness and variety are the most fundamental themes regarding the natural canine diet. Wholesome, minimally or unprocessed human grade foods for your dog are the most natural and sensible way for your dog to eat. Allergies, health related problems, and some illnesses may soon disappear from your dog’s life. Better dental health and fewer fleas and ticks are some of the benefits of feeding a natural diet to a canine. Skin problems and hair and coat generally show marked improvement when owners choose a natural diet for their dog.
