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Feeding your dog a natural diet of raw dog food has gained popularity due to claims of improved health and vitality. This comprehensive review explores the benefits of a raw dog food diet, supported by scientific research. We also provide actionable steps to implement this natural diet safely and effectively.
The raw diet, often termed the "BARF" (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food) diet, has gained popularity among dog owners due to claims of improved health, increased vitality, and better overall well-being. This paper examines the specific benefits of feeding a raw diet to dogs, supported by scientific research and nutritional expertise. Additionally, it outlines actionable steps for implementing a raw diet safely and effectively.
There has been ongoing debate about the optimal diet for dogs. While commercial kibble is common, a raw dog food diet mimics the natural feeding habits of wild canines. This review examines the evidence supporting the benefits of a natural diet of raw dog food and provides practical guidelines for its implementation.
Improved Digestive Health
The evidence: Studies have shown that raw diets can lead to firmer stools, reduced stool volume, and improved gastrointestinal health in dogs. Raw diets are typically higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates compared to commercial kibble, which may contribute to these benefits.
How: The high moisture content and digestibility of raw foods reduce the workload on the digestive system. Additionally, the natural enzymes present in raw meat aid in digestion.
Enhanced Dental Health
The evidence: Research indicates that chewing raw bones and meat can reduce plaque and tartar buildup, leading to healthier gums and teeth.
How: The mechanical action of chewing raw bones provides a natural method for cleaning teeth and gums, preventing periodontal disease, a common issue in dogs fed commercial diets.
Improved Skin and Coat Condition
The evidence: Many studies have reported improved skin and coat quality in dogs fed a raw diet, attributed to the high levels of essential fatty acids and the absence of fillers and artificial additives found in kibble.
How: Raw diets often include fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. The absence of allergens and artificial preservatives also reduces the incidence of skin problems.
Increased Energy Levels and Vitality
The evidence: Anecdotal evidence from dog owners and some preliminary studies suggest that dogs on raw diets exhibit higher energy levels and increased vitality compared to those on commercial diets.
How: The natural nutrients found in raw food, such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals, provide a more balanced and bioavailable source of energy, supporting overall health and vitality.
Weight Management
The evidence: Raw diets can help maintain an optimal weight in dogs by providing a natural balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates without the excessive fillers found in many commercial dog foods.
How: The high protein content promotes lean muscle mass, while the natural fats help regulate metabolism, aiding in the prevention of obesity.
"We understand the journey every pet owner embarks on when switching to raw pet food. We've been there ourselves."
Consult with a Nurturing by Nature expert
Nurturing by Nature has a long standing belief that raw pet food is the most biologically appropriate diet for our pets. With over 20 years experience making & feeding millions of raw pet food meals every year. So investing in a conversation with one of our experts would be an investment well made.
Learn about the Raw Feeding Principles
Source Quality Ingredients
Proper Food Preparation and Hygiene
Balanced Diet Formulation
Monitor Health and Adjust as Needed
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Nurturing by Nature, we understand the journey every pet owner embarks on when switching to raw pet food. We've been there ourselves, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need a friendly chat, detailed information, or assistance with placing your first order, we're just a phone call away. Trust us to help you provide the healthiest and most natural diet for your beloved pets.
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Nurturing by Nature has been a pioneering force in the raw dog food industry for over 20 years. Our journey began with research and study in the late 1990's but after our own personal experiance with Fred our family boxer dog, a strong passionate commitment developed, one that founded our a mission that we live to today. Our mission is to; Make our very best raw Pet Food and deliver this to our community through exceptional customer service. We do this by providing pet owners, Raw pet food meals which we believe are the most biologically appropriate diet for them. By staying true to our core values of heritage, integrity, attentiveness, unity, and ethics. Nurturing by Nature has proudly been at the heart of the raw feeding community for many pet owners through-out the UK.
Our values are everything that we do
Heritage and Integrity: Founded on the principle of offering natural, high-quality nutrition, we have maintained our dedication to ethically sourcing and preparing raw dog food. Our recipes are rooted in tradition, reflecting our belief in the natural diet that pets thrive on. Choosing to not follow the trends but the heritage of our pet's natural ansestery.
Attentiveness and Unity: Every meal we prepare is a testament to our attentive care and united effort. We listen to our customers, adapt to their needs, and work as a cohesive team to ensure that each product meets the highest standards of quality and safety. We understand that these meals are prepared often in the family home and kitchens. Whilst the label has to say pet food we choses to understand that iit's your pet's meals.
Ethical Practices: Ethical sourcing and production are at the heart of what we do. We prioritise sustainable practices, ensuring that our ingredients are not only beneficial for pets but also for the environment. No animal is slaughtered because of a order we place and we ensure that we vitis farms, processing facilities where possible to understand the processes involved with our ingredients. We will only ever purchase ingredients from approved sites that achive the highest of standards.
Over the years, we have seen countless owners thrive after seeing their pets benefit from our raw dog food lifestyle, experiencing improved health, vitality, and happiness becomes infectious changing your lives as well as your pet's. Our commitment to these values has earned us the trust of pet owners and the respect of the industry. Something that we are very proud of as a family business that was founded many years ago in the family kitchen.
Explore our extensive range of raw dog food products, designed to cater to the specific nutritional needs of your pets, and join us in continuing a legacy of excellence and care.
For more information and to see our products, visit Nurturing by Nature.
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