Skip to content
10 Pawsitively Raw Facts That Might Surprise You

10 Pawsitively Raw Facts That Might Surprise You

Raw feeding isn't a new idea or a trendy fad; in fact, it's how dogs have eaten for thousands of years. Long before commercial dog food was invented and kibble hit the shelves, our dogs lived off raw meat.

Feeding a balanced, natural, raw diet just makes sense, and the results speak for themselves. We thought it would be fun to round up 10 fascinating facts about this natural, ancestral style of eating for you to chew over.

1. Raw-fed dogs may drink less water

Hydration is crucial for your pup's health and well-being, but don't fret if you switch to a raw diet and notice your pup is drinking less water.  This is because raw meat contains more moisture than kibble;  therefore, many dogs naturally drink less as they are getting extra hydration through their food instead.

2. You can tell a raw-fed dog by its poop

Raw-fed dogs often have smaller, firmer, and less smelly poops. A raw diet free from artificial ingredients is more digestible, allowing dogs to absorb more nutrients and produce less waste with little smell. The high protein and bone content also leads to a firmer consistency, resulting in easier-to-scoop poop. 

Monitoring your pup's poop is one of the best indicators of how their diet is working for them. Check out:  POOP and What it Means for Your Dog (Poop Chart Inside!) – Top Dog Food & Supply

3. Raw-fed dogs may smell better

Many owners report their dogs actually smell better on a raw diet. Raw, meaty bones act like a natural toothbrush, helping to scrape off plaque for cleaner teeth and fresher breath. A whole, natural diet without fillers or preservatives also leads to improved digestion and less fermentation in the gut, which means less smelly gas, too. 

4. Raw-fed dogs may have fewer fleas and ticks

A raw diet promotes healthier coats and skin, reducing dryness and inflammation (conditions that ticks and fleas love). Raw feeding also changes your pup's body odour and skin chemistry, making it less appealing to pests. Finally, a balanced, raw diet strengthens the immune system, which is your pet's first defence against infections and parasite-borne diseases.

(Don't forget, even raw-fed dogs aren't immune to ticks and fleas, so don't skip on natural repellents or vet-approved preventives.)

5. Dogs on raw diets may shed less

Shedding is a normal part of your pup's hair growth cycle, but excessive shedding can mean poor skin health or a nutritional imbalance. Not only does a raw diet help keep coats soft and shiny, but a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce shedding, dandruff and even itchiness. 

6. Not all organs are classed as "organ meat"

Organs have been nicknamed 'Mother Nature's multi-vitamins' and are a powerhouse of nutrition for your pup. In raw feeding, there are organs classified as "muscle meat" (muscle-supporting organs), such as the heart, lungs, gizzard, and tripe. These offer a great source of protein, taurine and minerals. 

Then there are the "secreting organs" that are essential (such as the liver, kidney, and spleen) and produce hormones, enzymes, and vital chemicals. Secreting organs are packed with vitamins (A, B-complex, D, E, K) and minerals. They are only needed in small amounts, but they are so important. Typically, a raw diet is made up of 10% organs ( 5% liver and 5% secreting organs). 

For everything organs, check out: Offal Organs: Why Feed Your Dog Raw Organs? – Top Dog Food & Supply

7. Raw-fed puppies grow more slowly ( in a good way)

Pups can be fed a balanced raw diet with appropriate moderation from weaning, and it's a great way to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients to support growth and development.  Without the additives, fillers and excess calories found in ultra-processed kibble, puppies on a biologically appropriate diet often tend to grow at a more natural, even pace, which is better for their developing bones and joints.

For more on raw feeding puppies, check out:  Can Puppies Eat a Raw Diet? – Top Dog Food & Supply

8. Feeding the same raw protein for too long can cause nutritional gaps

We're all about balance. Variety is key in getting the most out of a natural, raw diet and sticking to the same protein for too long can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Make sure to switch things up and rotate your proteins to ensure your pup gets maximum mealtime excitement and all the nutrients they need to thrive.

For more on why rotating proteins matters, check out: Are You Rotating Your Pup's Protein? Here's Why It Matters. – Top Dog Food & Supply

9. Raw-fed dogs can have cleaner ears

Not only does a raw diet benefit your pup's skin by reducing inflammation and balancing pH levels, but raw-fed dogs typically have less earwax and infections because a low-carbohydrate / high-protein diet helps to fight off yeast overgrowth. Raw-fed dogs also tend to have better gut health and stronger immune systems, which helps fight off infections before they take hold.

10. Some raw-fed dogs naturally self-regulate their portions

Most pups love the chance to gobble up anything, but a protein-rich diet keeps a pup fuller for longer, meaning, unlike with kibble, raw-fed dogs are more likely to eat until satisfied and then walk away, especially with whole raw pieces they have to chew and work for.  A raw diet is nutrient-dense, and some owners find that their dogs eat smaller portions while maintaining a healthy weight and good muscle tone.

For more on healthy weight management, check out: Shape Up: The Weighty Impact of Feeding Raw – Top Dog Food & Supply.

The benefits of a species-appropriate raw diet are endless, and if you would like to find out more about making the switch or product recommendations for a healthier and happier pet, get in touch at ✉️ woof@topdogfoodandsupply.com 📱 203-345-0350.

 

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published..

Cart 0

Your cart is currently empty.

Start Shopping