Gut health and nutrient absorption
Recent research from the University of Helsinki shows that dogs that eat raw food have a more diverse gut microflora and a higher protein and fat absorption rate than their counterparts that eat only dry food. Better food absorption often also results in smaller stool volume and less uncomfortable gas.
However, high-quality dry food contains a carefully balanced amount of fiber and carbohydrates that feed different types of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Although dry food usually results in larger stools, it ensures stable digestion and is well suited for animals with sensitive stomachs.
Early nutrition and skin disease prevention
Long-term studies have shown a link between puppyhood nutrition and later skin health. Researchers at the University of Helsinki found that puppies who ate fresh, lightly processed or raw food in addition to their mother's milk at an early age were significantly less likely to develop atopic dermatitis and chronic skin inflammation as adults.
In the same study, consuming only high-heat dried food early in development was associated with a higher risk of developing allergic skin diseases later in life. Researchers believe that early exposure to various natural microbes helps train the young animal's immune system to respond appropriately.
Hygiene risks and nutrient balance
Although raw food has positive effects on skin and digestion, veterinary authorities warn of microbiological risks and nutritional deficiencies. Analysis of homemade and commercial raw foods shows that raw meat can contain pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli . These bacteria may not always pose a threat to the pet with a strong stomach, but can be transmitted to other members of the household through the animal's saliva or feces.
In addition, homemade raw food carries a high risk of causing nutritional deficiencies in the animal. An improperly balanced calcium and phosphorus ratio or a lack of trace elements is especially dangerous for a growing organism. Industrial complete feed, or dry food, on the other hand, ensures the exact balance of all the necessary vitamins and minerals in every meal.
How to make the best choice for your pet?
When choosing pet food, nutrition experts recommend considering your pet's individual needs and the owner's daily possibilities.
You need to consider your household hygiene conditions and only choose raw food if you are prepared to follow strict precautions when storing and preparing food.
If necessary, both feeding methods can be combined by offering your pet high-quality dry food daily and adding raw food or fresh meat to it to enrich the intestinal microbiome.
When preparing homemade raw food, it is worth consulting with a pet nutritionist or veterinarian to avoid dangerous vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
From sources
The article is based on research published by the DogRisk research group at the University of Helsinki and animal nutrition scientists at the University of California ( UC Davis Veterinary Medicine ).
