 These days, we have so many options when it comes to feeding our dogs. Each with their own marketed benefits, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, how do you decide what to nourish your dog with? At Instinct Canine Training, we believe that supporting your dog’s health with a raw food diet is the best way to provide optimal nutrition and vitality for your companion. Embracing a raw food diet is more than just a trend, though it’s certainly increased in popularity in recent years. Keep reading to uncover the benefits of raw feeding. Why Feed Raw?You’ve probably come across the phrase “biologically appropriate diet” when discussing dog food, but what does it really mean? Simply put, a biologically appropriate diet is one that closely mimics what dogs and wolves would naturally eat in the wild. We’re not talking about your dog chasing down a wild elk on their morning walk (though that sounds exciting!) Instead, a biologically appropriate diet aims to provide your dog with the nutrients that make sense for their digestive systems, instincts, and overall health. Dogs, like their wolf ancestors, are designed to eat meat, bones, and organs — not grains, corn, or fillers that find their way into many processed kibbles. By going raw, you’re giving your dog a chance to eat like the predator they are at heart. And with that comes some serious perks! The Benefits of Raw More Than Just Smaller Poops (Though, That’s a Bonus!) Feeding raw reduces health issues, improves coat quality, and makes for smaller, less stinky bowel movements. But there’s so much more to it. Let’s dig a little deeper into why raw can make such a difference:
Now, here’s where it gets really interesting: a raw food diet can promote balanced energy levels in dogs. One of the most overlooked benefits of raw feeding is how it affects a dog’s energy levels throughout the day. A typical kibble diet often contains grains, which break down into sugar in your dog’s system, creating a sugar high And what follows a sugar high? A sugar crash. That erratic burst of energy, followed by the lethargy that makes your dog look like they partied too hard the night before, isn’t just quirky behaviour. It’s a direct result of their diet. Just like in humans, food is fuel, and frankly put, garbage in is garbage out. Raw diets, by contrast, provide a steady release of energy. Picture it this way: kibble is like taking your dog on a rollercoaster — big highs and big lows, often at inconvenient times (cue the 8 PM zoomies). A raw diet, though, is more like a scenic drive through the hills. No dramatic peaks or crashes, just a smooth, steady flow of energy. It’s like the dog version of skipping the sugary breakfast cereal and going for a balanced omelette instead. You’ll see a more even-keeled, calmer dog. This steady energy can be a game changer for dogs with behavioural problems. While raw food won’t magically solve all behaviour issues (you still need to put in the training work,) it can act as an important aid, helping to level out that erratic energy and make your training efforts more effective. Feeding Frequency: Dogs Aren’t Grazers When it comes to feeding frequency, some pet parents make the mistake of leaving food out all day, also known as “free feeding.” Let’s be clear: dogs aren’t cows. They don’t graze. They’re hunters, designed to feast on a large meal, when available, and then move on with life. Think about it — in the wild, wolves don’t have a buffet spread available 24/7. They hunt, eat, and rest. The same logic applies to our domesticated dogs. Their metabolism is wired to handle larger meals at designated times, not to snack all day long like they’ve got a standing invitation to a party platter. Feeding your adult dog twice a day (puppies get a pass with three meals) aligns with their natural metabolism. And, believe it or not, it’s completely normal for dogs to occasionally fast themselves. They might skip a meal or even a full day of eating, and unless there are worrying symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, this behaviour is perfectly fine. In fact, it’s just their inner wolf taking a day off. The Science Behind Raw Feeding and Behaviour If you really want to get into the science, studies have shown that diets high in protein and fat (and lower in carbohydrates) help stabilize glucose levels in dogs. Without the sugar spikes and subsequent crashes caused by carbohydrate-heavy meals, dogs on raw diets tend to exhibit more balanced, predictable energy levels throughout the day (source). This can be especially useful for dogs prone to anxiety or hyperactivity. Again, while the raw diet won’t "fix" these issues, the even energy levels it promotes can support training efforts, helping dogs remain calmer and more focused. Feed Raw, Feed Smart Feeding your dog a raw diet isn't about jumping on the latest pet food trend — it’s about giving them a biologically appropriate diet that aligns with their natural instincts and needs. You’ll notice the benefits not just in their shiny coat and smaller poops (though that’s nice too) but in their overall health, behaviour, and energy levels. So, the next time you’re considering your dog’s food, remember: they’re not meant to graze like a cow or ride a sugar rollercoaster. They’re a wolf at heart, and feeding raw lets them eat like one. And, let’s be honest — anything that makes scooping poop easier is a win in our book! Just getting started on your raw food journey? Our friends at Back to the Bone have a wide selection of raw food brands and knowledgeable staff who can help guide you in the right direction for your dog’s unique needs. If you’re in the Burlington or Oakville areas, check them out! At Instinct Canine, we always encourage our clients to choose what's best for them and their dog when it comes to food choices. We believe in honouring your preferences and comfort level in selecting the ideal diet for you and your dog. A raw food diet aligns closely in pricing with a high-quality kibble diet, offering you flexibility without compromise. Trust your instincts and know that you have the power to make informed decisions that benefit both you and your beloved pet. And, if you have any questions on how to begin your raw food journey, we're here to help! Sources: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/diets-diabetic-dogs https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/diabetes/ https://www.aaha.org/resources/2018-aaha-diabetes-management-guideline-for-dogs-and-cats/dietary-management/ https://rawznaturalpetfood.com/dog-diabetes-diet/ https://www.darwinspet.com/resources/types-of-dog-food/diabetic.html Comments are closed.
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Meet the authorAnna Marie Stewart, DTTA-CPDT, is the owner and founder of Instinct Canine Training in Burlington, Ontario. Her passion and love of dogs is evident to anyone who works with her, and is an experienced trainer who works with a variety of clients to achieve a well-mannered dog. Categories
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