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Going back to nature has lately become all the rage among human dieters, so who can feign surprise that the trend makes it to the canine world? But is it really just a trendy new fad or do the proponents of natural diets, like the BARF diet, have a valid argument concerning the health of our pets?
The all-natural diet for dogs is based on the same theory that supports the raw diet for human beings. Eating foods that are not tarnished by harmful processing and cooking can improve the body’s ability to digest and absorb the essential nutrients. The diet in dogs, however, takes this idea a step further and pulls from the diets of wild animals who have been surviving for generations with no assistance from dog food companies.
Proponents of this diet argue that wild dogs kill and eat animals whole, bone and all. This balance is necessary for a dog to receive all of the nutrition the meal has to offer. Carbohydrates, particularly cooked grains, are not included in natural diets because they are not needed.
An interesting theory. But is this diet something you should try with your beloved pet? The answer is a personal choice. There are benefits and disadvantages to this diet, which usually consists of feeding your dog raw eggs with the shell, raw meat of chickens and turkeys, bones like turkey necks, and vegetable pulp.
If the natural diet is something that you would like to try, there are two things that you need to consider. The first is that you should not make the diet yourself. Consult a nutritional expert or canine health professional before choosing to switch your dog to this diet. Secondly, raw foods do not provide dogs with some essential oils and vitamins, like Omega 3 and Vitamin E. It is necessary to give your dogs vitamin supplements daily to maintain their health when they are on the natural diet. This is another reason you should consult a professional and follow a program when choosing this diet for your dog.
The natural diet for dogs has grown exponentially in popularity over the last few years. Choosing to switch your pet to this diet is not a decision to make lightly. It is an entirely different lifestyle for your dog. There are a number of programs and professionals that can help you design a diet for your dog that has the benefits of being all-natural.
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