In human nutrition, it's an established and universally accepted fact that the freshest and least processed foods possible are essential for optimal health! I don't think many people will disagree with me on this point. Everyone agrees: doctors, nutritionists, naturopaths, and so on.
When I think about the food our dogs and cats eat, well, surprise! It's not the case, especially among those who work with your pets' health. Most of them favour and recommend highly processed kibble, including synthetic minerals and vitamins, as if it were absolutely necessary for your pet's health! Moreover, few people who own pets question this, which, to me, is obviously absurd and makes my hair stand on end (and that's saying something, since my hair is naturally quite straight, lol).
Our dogs and cats are mammals just like us, except they’re carnivores, not omnivores like humans. Without a doubt, the freshest possible food is best for their health! Feeding processed food like carbohydrate-rich kibble doesn't promote optimal gut health (essential for a strong immune system), increases inflammation, and deprives our pets of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in their natural form. Given that 90% of dogs and cats eat processed food in the form of kibble, it's no surprise that most surveys show that 40% of animals have at least one known health issue. That's huge!
Raw food is already much less processed since it's not cooked and is mostly made with fresh ingredients! Don't fall into the trap of commercial raw foods containing ingredients unsuitable for carnivores (too many carbohydrates, too many vegetables). Also avoid commercial foods containing added synthetic minerals and vitamins. A good variety and balance of ingredients are more than enough to meet the needs of dogs and cats!
Even better, get trained, informed, and cook for your dog! This way, you're even closer to nature and freshness! Many people who have taken the "Properly balancing a raw diet" course commented: "It's really not that complicated to cook for your dog when you know how! With the training, you're very well equipped to do so!"
Furthermore, fresh green vegetables are plentiful these days, so for those who cook for their dogs, it's the perfect time to make your own green vegetable purees, packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins in easily digestible and natural forms! Remember to puree them well for better absorption! A small amount of green vegetables, preferably leafy ones, in a dog's diet is an excellent addition in terms of nutrients! Plus, in the summer, they're fresh, local, and affordable, so it's the time to stock up, puree them, and freeze them for the year! Kale, lettuce, parsley, mesclun, and asparagus are excellent additions for a little mineral and vitamin boost! Of course, these are still vegetables, and you shouldn't exceed 10-15% of their diet.
So whether you're a beginner in dog nutrition or an expert who makes recipes for your dog, always prioritize fresh foods; it's the key to a healthy diet! For those who feed kibble, it’s been proven that adding just 20% fresh food to a dog's bowl has positive effects on their health, so starting there is an excellent beginning. One step at a time!
Karine Simard, agronomist, M.Sc.
Expert consultant in canine
nutrition
