Always Better Raw: Winning Doggie Diets

Raw is a diet primarily of uncooked meat, edible bones, and organs. There are some Prepared or Packaged Raw diets that also include fruit and vegetables. Natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria are found in raw pet foods, undamaged by any heat application.

Freeze-Dried Raw has a freeze drying process that is widely appreciated as the most effective method of food preservation; it imparts the greatest shelf life and the least nutrient damage. The food is not heated; moisture is removed using a very high vacuum, preserving the natural ingredients.

Benefits of Raw and Freeze Dried Raw

• Palatability is great! – pets like it, Yum Yum
• Superior digestibility – leads to improved stools & better overall health
• Shinier coats & healthier skin
• Cleaner teeth & breath
• Improved weight control
• Increased immunity
• High energy levels

The majority of kibble (dry food) is cooked through an extrusion method. Similar to the microwave, the extrusion process greatly reduces the nutritional value of the food. It cooks at a high temperature for a short period of time. Extrusion type kibble is usually 25 – 45% starch, which has a low nutritional value. If you opt to use a dry kibble, the recommended and more nutritional option would be a baked kibble.

The Problem with Starch

Diets high in starch are a nutritional problem for our pets. Excess starch erodes a pet’s health in subtle ways, including blood sugar spikes, digestion issues & dermatitis. It’s important to note that grain free kibble can also have starch. Kibble using pea protein, sweet potato and quinoa may be termed “grain-free” but can also have high starch content.

Raw diets and freeze-dried raw are one-sixth the starch content of kibble.

Using a Checkpup at home wellness test you have the ability to analyze your dog's metabolic function (oxidation rate). A report will be generated listing diet and supplement guidance and recommendations based on your pup's metabolic performance so you could ensure you are feeding your four-legged best friend an optimal food source.