The Raw Truth

Raw dog food, often hailed as the epitome of canine nutrition, has gained both ardent supporters and skeptical critics.

In this blog, we'll delve into the myths and misconceptions surrounding raw dog food, taking a no-nonsense approach to separate the facts from fiction and give you a clearer picture of what's best for your four-legged friend.

Some critics dismiss raw dog food as a passing trend or the latest craze among pet owners. However, the truth is, raw feeding has been what dogs and cats have eaten for 99.99% of their entire life span on earth.

Before the advent of commercial dog food, our furry companions thrived on raw diets in the wild. Scientists date the current Canine and Feline species back over 40,000 years, and commercial cooked Dog and Cat food have only been on the market for just over 80 years…

39,920 years of eating a certain way versus 80 years…

99.99%

So, in fact, the return to raw feeding can be seen as a return to a more natural, proper way of nourishing our pets.

The FACTS are that Dogs and Cats are Carnivorous animals, dating their ancestry back to both wolves and big hunting cats, and their cooked, kibble diets are mostly grain and vegetable-based.

It would be weird to think a Cow could survive eating meat…so why do we think it’s ok for Dogs and Cats to eat grain?

Let’s tackle the 3 main challenges or questions about Raw Dog and Cat food that I hear every day.

1. Can my Cat or Dog have all their nutritional needs met if I’m feeding a Raw Food diet?

Neither Dogs nor Cats can thrive on a diet of meat scraps from your table or the local butcher, and this version of ‘Feeding Raw’ has given the concept of feeding Raw Dog or Cat food a poor reputation. An imbalanced raw diet can lead to health issues, just the same as any imbalanced diet, even cooked ones. Thankfully, creating a nutritionally complete and balanced raw diet has become easier and easier, and you can find many of them in your local boutique pet stores.

Numerous resources, including pet nutritionists (like we have at Just About Pets) and quality commercial raw food options, make the process accessible and straightforward. With little effort and the right guidance, it's easier than you might think to meet your dog's dietary needs.

2. Feeding Raw Cat or Dog food is really expensive, is it worth it?

Yes, it is!

I’ll be blunt…feeding a Raw Dog or Cat Food is going to cost a little more than feeding mid-quality or lower kibble.

So, yes, feeding a raw diet can seem costly, but it's essential to consider the bigger picture. A well-balanced raw diet can enhance your dog and cat’s overall health, potentially reducing vet bills and enhancing their quality of life, helping them live longer and healthier.

The list of health benefits can save you money!

Better oral health leads to fewer dental bills. Better gut health leads to fewer viral infections. Sugar leads to less fat and risk of diabetesLess processed ingredients reduce the risk of cancer and other diseasesImproved nutrition helps your pet's body stay stronger, longer

​By focusing on the long-term benefits, raw feeding can be a wise investment in your pet's well-being.

Moreover, you can tailor your dog's raw diet to fit your budget by exploring different sourcing options, bulk purchases, and even preparing the food at home. The flexibility is there, and experts like our team can help you.

3. Will Feeding Raw Cat or Dog food make my pet bloodthirsty and aggressive?

No, it will not!

The notion that raw diets make dogs or cats more aggressive is nothing but a persistent myth. A dog or cat’s behavior is influenced by various factors, but their diet isn't a primary driver of aggression.

In fact, it can be argued that due to the lack of vitamins, micronutrients and general nutritional value in highly processed, cooked kibble diets, your pet could be more aggressive around food while eating these processed diets.

Why?

Because they’re nutritionally starving and therefore always hungry.

It's essential to recognize that while diet can impact a dog or cat’s overall health and well-being, no scientific evidence supports a direct link between raw food and aggressive behavior.

It just isn’t true.

​

Raw dog food isn't a fleeting trend; it's a return to a more natural and species-appropriate way of nourishing our pets. When it comes to myths about raw feeding, it's crucial to separate fact from fiction. By doing thorough research, seeking expert advice, and considering the long-term benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether raw dog food is the right choice for your beloved companion. Remember, a well-balanced raw diet can lead to a healthier, happier, and more vibrant life for your dog.