Introduction

Raw feeding, also known as a raw or "BARF" (biologically appropriate raw food) diet, is a method of feeding dogs that involves giving them a diet consisting primarily of raw meat, bones, and organs. Proponents of raw feeding argue that it is a more "natural" and healthier way to feed dogs, as it more closely resembles the diet that wolves and other wild canids would have eaten.

The popularity of raw feeding for dogs has grown in recent years, with some estimates suggesting that as many as 5% of pet owners in the United States and Canada feed their dogs a raw diet. This growth has been fueled in part by social media and online communities that promote raw feeding as a healthier alternative to commercial dog food.

However, despite its popularity, raw feeding remains a controversial subject in the pet industry and among veterinarians. While proponents argue that raw feeding can improve a dog's coat condition, dental health, and overall health, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations caution against raw feeding due to the potential risks and dangers it can pose.

Keep in mind—humans used to eat raw meat too. But most of us would suggest there are benefits to cooking our food, as well as newer ingredients promoting improved health that weren’t easily available as a hunter and gatherer.

One of the main arguments against raw feeding is the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw meat, bones, and organs can harbor harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness or even death in dogs and humans. There have been numerous reports of outbreaks of bacterial infections linked to raw feeding, including some that have led to recalls of specific raw diet products.

Another concern with raw feeding is the risk of nutrient imbalances. Dogs have specific nutritional requirements that must be met in order to maintain good health, and a diet that is not properly balanced can lead to deficiencies or excesses of certain nutrients. This is especially true for puppies, which have higher nutritional needs than adult dogs. It can be difficult for pet owners to properly balance a raw diet without the guidance of a veterinarian or a nutritionist, and there is a risk of serious health problems if the diet is not formulated correctly.

In addition to the potential health risks, raw feeding can also pose legal and ethical risks. Some states have laws that prohibit the sale or distribution of raw meat products for animal consumption, and pet owners who feed a raw diet may be at risk of legal liability if their dog becomes ill or causes injury to another animal or person as a result of consuming contaminated food.

Given these risks and shortcomings, it is important for pet owners to carefully consider the pros and cons of raw feeding before making a decision about their dog's diet. While a raw diet may be appropriate for some dogs under certain circumstances, it is not necessarily the best choice for all dogs, and it is important to consult with a veterinarian or a nutritionist before making any changes to a dog's diet.

The history of raw feeding for dogs

The history of raw feeding can be traced back to the early 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s, a number of veterinarians and animal nutritionists began to experiment with feeding raw diets to dogs and other pets, with the goal of improving their health and well-being.

One of the earliest proponents of raw feeding was Dr. William Pollak, a veterinarian who practiced in New York City in the 1920s. Pollak argued that commercial dog food was unhealthy and unnatural, and that dogs would be better off if they were fed a diet that more closely resembled the diet of their wild ancestors. Pollak's ideas were controversial at the time, and he faced criticism from other veterinarians and the pet food industry.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the raw feeding movement began to gain more traction, in part due to the work of Dr. Ian Billinghurst, an Australian veterinarian and animal nutritionist. Billinghurst developed the concept of the "BARF" diet, which stands for biologically appropriate raw food. In his book "Give Your Dog a Bone," published in 1993, Billinghurst argued that commercial dog food was unhealthy and that a diet consisting of raw meat, bones, and organs was more natural and healthier for dogs.

Billinghurst's ideas were influential in the raw feeding movement and spawned a number of different approaches to raw feeding, including the "prey model" diet, which advocates feeding dogs a diet consisting solely of whole prey animals (e.g. chickens, rabbits), and the "Frankenprey" diet, which advocates feeding a variety of raw meat, bones, and organs from different sources.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the raw feeding movement began to gain more mainstream attention, in part due to the rise of the internet and the growth of online communities that promoted raw feeding. These communities provided a platform for raw feeders to share information and experiences, and helped to spread the message about the benefits of raw feeding to a wider audience.

In recent years, the popularity of raw feeding for dogs has continued to grow, with some estimates suggesting that as many as 5% of pet owners in the United States and Canada now feed their dogs a raw diet. However, raw feeding remains a controversial subject in the pet industry and among veterinarians, with many experts cautioning against the potential risks and dangers of feeding a raw diet to dogs. Despite its popularity, there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims made by proponents of raw feeding, and the risks and benefits of this approach to feeding dogs are still being debated.

The potential benefits of raw feeding for dogs

Proponents of raw feeding a "BARF" diet argue that this approach to feeding dogs has a number of potential benefits. These claims are based on the idea that a raw diet more closely resembles the diet that wolves and other wild canids would have eaten, and that it is therefore more "natural" and healthier for domestic dogs. Some of the specific benefits claimed by proponents of raw feeding include:

Improved coat condition: Proponents of raw feeding argue that a raw diet can improve the shine and texture of a dog's coat, and that it can reduce shedding.

Improved dental health: Proponents of raw feeding argue that chewing on raw bones can help to clean a dog's teeth and reduce the risk of dental problems.

Improved overall health: Proponents of raw feeding argue that a raw diet can improve a dog's energy levels, digestion, and immune system function.

Weight control: Proponents of raw feeding argue that a raw diet can help to regulate a dog's weight, as it is more satiating and less likely to cause weight gain than a diet of commercial dog food.

However, despite these claims, there is limited scientific evidence to support the benefits of raw feeding for dogs. Many of the studies that have been conducted on raw feeding have been small, with relatively few dogs, and have not been designed to control for other factors that could affect the outcomes. This makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the benefits of raw feeding based on the available research.

One of the main challenges in evaluating the benefits of raw feeding is the lack of consensus on what constitutes a "raw" diet. Different raw feeders use different ingredients and proportions of ingredients, and there is no standard definition of a raw diet. In fact, one popular “raw” dog food company even has peanut butter in its recipes—hardly something ancestral canines ate in the wild. This makes it difficult to compare the results of different studies and to generalize their findings to the wider raw feeding community.

Despite these limitations, there have been a few studies that have attempted to evaluate the benefits of raw feeding for dogs. One study, published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2005, found that dogs fed a raw diet had higher levels of certain nutrients in their blood compared to dogs fed a commercial diet, but the study did not assess the impact of these differences on the dogs' health. Another study, published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition in 2016, found that dogs fed a raw diet had higher levels of certain beneficial bacteria in their feces compared to dogs fed a commercial diet, but again, the study did not assess the impact of these differences on the dogs' health.

Overall, the available scientific evidence does not provide strong support for the claims made by proponents of raw feeding about the potential benefits of this approach to feeding dogs. While it is possible that a raw diet may offer some benefits for certain dogs under certain circumstances, more research is needed to determine the extent and nature of these benefits, and to identify the risks and potential drawbacks of raw feeding. Until more is known, it is important for pet owners to carefully consider the pros and cons of raw feeding before making a decision about their dog's diet, and to consult with a veterinarian or a nutritionist if they are considering making a change to their dog's diet.

The potential risks of raw feeding for dogs

Raw feeding, also known as the "BARF" (biologically appropriate raw food) diet, is a method of feeding dogs that involves giving them a diet consisting mainly of raw, unprocessed animal products such as muscle meat, organs, bones, and raw eggs. Proponents of raw feeding argue that it is a more natural and healthier way to feed dogs, as it more closely mimics the diet of their wild ancestors. However, there are several potential risks associated with raw feeding that pet owners should be aware of.

One of the main health risks associated with raw feeding is the potential for bacterial contamination. Raw meat and other animal products can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. These bacteria can be transmitted to humans through handling the raw food or through contact with the dog's feces, which can contain the bacteria if the dog has ingested it. It is important for pet owners to handle raw food with care and to thoroughly wash their hands and any surfaces that come into contact with the food to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

Another potential risk of raw feeding is the possibility of nutrient imbalances. Raw diets can be difficult to balance properly, as they often lack certain essential nutrients that are found in commercially available dog food. For example, raw diets may be low in calcium and phosphorus, which can lead to bone and joint problems in dogs. Raw diets may also be low in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, vitamin E, and zinc, which can lead to deficiencies and related health problems.

In addition to the risk of nutrient imbalances, raw meat is generally less digestible than cooked or air-dried food. Cooking or drying meat makes it easier for dogs to digest and absorb the nutrients it contains, whereas raw meat may be more difficult for dogs to break down and utilize. This can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation in some dogs.

Another potential concern with raw feeding is the low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in many raw diets. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for maintaining healthy skin and coat, as well as supporting heart health and brain function. However, the majority of the omega-3s found in raw diets come from plant sources, which are not as easily absorbed by dogs as the omega-3s found in fish oil or other animal sources. As a result, raw diets may be lower in omega-3s and more inflammatory than diets that include higher levels of these important fatty acids.

Raw diets may also be low in antioxidants and phytonutrients, which are plant compounds that have been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain types of cancer and supporting overall immune function. These nutrients are found in a variety of plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, which are often not included in raw diets.

Another potential risk of raw feeding is the possibility of iodine deficiency. Iodine is an essential nutrient that is important for proper thyroid function and overall health. It can be found in some animal-based foods, such as fish and dairy products, but these foods are not typically included in raw diets. As a result, dogs on raw diets may be at risk for iodine deficiency, which can lead to a variety of health problems.

Low fiber is another common trait of raw dog food. Fiber is what good bacteria in your dog’s microbiome eats, and a lack of this important nutrient can lead to reduced microbiome diversity. Microbiome diversity is related to many health benefits including longevity and reduced gut health issues. A purely raw diet does not contain beneficial amounts of fiber.

In addition to the potential health risks of raw feeding, there are also legal and ethical risks to consider. One concern is the source of the raw ingredients used in the diet. Many raw diets include meat and other animal products from sources such as factory farms, where animals may be raised in crowded, unhealthy conditions and subjected to various forms of cruelty. 

Raw feeding may also raise ethical concerns for pet owners who are concerned about animal welfare. Some people may feel that it is unethical to feed dogs a diet that includes raw meat and bones, as there is a risk of injury if the dog chokes on or becomes stuck on a bone. In addition, feeding raw bones may also increase the risk of dental injuries, such as broken teeth. These concerns may be particularly relevant for pet owners who are committed to ethical treatment of animals.

There have been several studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on the potential risks of raw feeding for dogs. Here are a few examples:

1. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2002 found that dogs fed a raw diet were more likely to shed Salmonella bacteria in their feces compared to dogs fed a cooked diet. This suggests that raw feeding may increase the risk of bacterial contamination and the transmission of Salmonella to humans.
2. Another study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2010 found that raw diets were associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis in dogs. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and other symptoms.
3. A review published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice in 2012 concluded that raw diets may be low in certain essential nutrients, such as calcium and phosphorus, and may also be deficient in certain vitamins and minerals. This can lead to deficiencies and related health problems in dogs.
4. A study published in the Journal of Animal Science in 2013 found that raw meat was less digestible than cooked meat in dogs. This suggests that raw feeding may lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation in some dogs.
5. A review published in the Journal of Animal Science in 2014 found that raw diets were often low in omega-3 fatty acids and may be more inflammatory than cooked or dry diets. This may have negative effects on skin and coat health, as well as overall health.
6. A study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research in 2006 found that raw diets were associated with an increased risk of dental problems in dogs, including periodontal disease and tooth loss.
7. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2007 found that raw diets were associated with an increased risk of bacterial infections in dogs, including Clostridium difficile and Escherichia coli.
8. A review published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2010 found that raw diets were often deficient in certain essential nutrients, including vitamin D and zinc, which can lead to deficiencies and related health problems in dogs.
9. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2011 found that raw diets were associated with an increased risk of bacterial contamination and the transmission of Salmonella to humans.
10. A study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research in 2012 found that raw diets were associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal problems in dogs, including diarrhea and vomiting.

It is important to note that these studies are only a small sample of the research that has been conducted on the potential risks of raw feeding for dogs. Pet owners should carefully consider all of the potential risks and benefits before deciding whether or not to feed their dog a raw diet.

Why raw diet is not the best for longevity

 

raw diets may not be the best choice for all dogs, and there are several reasons why raw diets may not be the best option for longevity.

First and foremost, raw diets can be low in fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients are important for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a key role in overall health and longevity. A diverse microbiome is associated with a stronger immune system, better digestion, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. A diet that is low in fiber can lead to an imbalance in the microbiome, leading to decreased diversity and potentially negative health consequences. Similarly, a diet that is low in antioxidants can also lead to an imbalance in the microbiome, as antioxidants are important for maintaining the health of the cells that make up the gut lining.

Furthermore, raw diets may be hard to digest, especially for dogs with gut issues. Cooked foods are easier to digest because the cooking process breaks down the fibers and proteins, making them more easily digestible. Raw foods, on the other hand, are more difficult to digest because they have not been cooked, and the fibers and proteins are more intact. This can be especially problematic for dogs with gut issues, as they may have a harder time digesting raw foods and may experience gastrointestinal upset as a result.

Additionally, raw diets may be more prone to bacterial contamination, which can be dangerous for dogs with compromised immune systems or gut issues. Raw meats and bones can harbor harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness if ingested. This is especially concerning for dogs with gut issues, as they may be more susceptible to bacterial infections due to their compromised immune systems.

In conclusion, while raw diets may offer some benefits, they may not be the best choice for all dogs, especially those with gut issues. Raw diets may be low in fiber and antioxidants, which are important for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and overall health. Additionally, raw diets may be hard to digest, especially for dogs with gut issues, and may be more prone to bacterial contamination, which can be dangerous for dogs with compromised immune systems or gut issues. Therefore, it is important to consider all of these factors when deciding whether a raw diet is the best choice for your dog.

The "raw coated" kibble lie

We urge pet parents to be aware that feeding your dog raw coated dry kibble does not have the same nutritional benefits as feeding your dog raw.

Unfortunately, raw coated kibble is mostly dry kibble, which contains all of the issues of other highly processed dry kibble. Most of the nutrients are degraded through the cooking process, and the fats are oxidized.

Yumwoof's MHD: The Superior Alternative to Raw Feeding

MHD stands for "Modern Holistic Diet," which we suggest is a superior alternative to raw feeding for dogs. This core tenets of the diet are: variety, anti-inflammatory, minimal processing, GMO-free, low carb, coconut oil, vegetable oil-free, legume, high in omega-3, high in phytonutrients from superfoods, high protein digestibility, high in fiber, microplastic-free, sustainable, fun, yummy and tailored to individual needs.

Some of the most importan parts of this diet are: variety, is anti-inflammatory, cooked at low temperature, GMO-free, low carb, high coconut oil, vegetable oil-free, high in omega-3, high in phytonutrients from superfoods, high protein digestibility, high in fiber, microplastic-free, sustainable and tailored to individual needs.

This diet includes non-GMO ingredients, is cooked at low temperatures, is low in carbohydrates, is based on a dog's ancestral diet, includes anti-inflammatory macros and ingredients, avoids vegetable oils, and includes coconut oil for health benefits. It also includes the right balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.

1. Non-GMO ingredients: Non-GMO (genetically modified organism) ingredients are those that have not been genetically modified through biotechnology. Using non-GMO ingredients can be a way to avoid potential health risks associated with genetically modified foods, such as the possibility of allergens or toxic substances.
2. Low temperature cooking: Cooking food at low temperatures can help preserve the nutritional content of the ingredients and reduce the risk of harmful compounds being formed during the cooking process. Low temperature cooking methods include sous vide, slow cooking, and steaming.
3. Low carbohydrate: Low carbohydrate diets may be beneficial for dogs with certain health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Limiting the amount of carbohydrates in the diet can help manage these conditions and support overall health and well-being.
4. Ancestral diet: An ancestral diet is one that is based on the diet of a dog's wild ancestors. This can include ingredients such as muscle meat, organs, bones, and raw eggs, and may be thought to more closely mimic the natural diet of dogs.
5. Anti-inflammatory ingredients and macros: Including anti-inflammatory ingredients and macros in the diet can help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall health and well-being. Examples of anti-inflammatory ingredients include turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Avoiding vegetable oils: Some vegetable oils, such as corn oil, soybean oil, and canola oil, have been linked to inflammation and other health problems. Avoiding these oils and using healthier alternatives, such as olive oil or coconut oil, can be a way to support overall health.
7. Coconut oil: Coconut oil has been shown to have a variety of health benefits for dogs, including improving skin and coat health, supporting immune function, and aiding in weight management. Using coconut oil as a healthy fat source can be a key component of a modern holistic diet.
8. Omega-3 to omega-6 balance: Maintaining the right balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids is important for overall health and well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, while omega-6 fatty acids can be pro-inflammatory. Achieving the right balance between these two types of fatty acids can support overall health.
9. Variety of nutrients: Nutritionists may also want to see a diet that includes a variety of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, to support overall health and well-being. This could include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as supplements if necessary.
10. Tailored to individual needs: A modern holistic diet should be tailored to the individual needs of each dog, taking into account factors such as breed, size, age, and any health conditions they may have. Nutritionists may want to see recommendations for customizing the diet to meet the specific needs of each dog.
11. Sustainable: Finally, a modern holistic diet should be sustainable, both for the environment and for the long-term health of the dog. Nutritionists may want to see recommendations for using ingredients that are sustainably produced and that support the overall health and well-being of the dog.

Conclusion

Yumwoof's MHD—the Modern Holistic Diet—is a superior alternative to raw feeding for dogs, as it addresses many of the potential risks and concerns associated with raw feeding. This diet includes non-GMO ingredients, is cooked at low temperatures to preserve nutrients and reduce the risk of harmful compounds being formed, is low in carbohydrates, and is based on a dog's ancestral diet. It also includes anti-inflammatory macros and ingredients to support overall health and well-being, avoids vegetable oils that may contribute to inflammation, and includes coconut oil for its numerous health benefits. In addition, the modern ancestral diet includes the right balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, which is important for overall health and well-being.

One of the main risks of raw feeding is the potential for bacterial contamination, which can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. Raw meat and other animal products can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can be transmitted through handling the raw food or through contact with the dog's feces. The modern ancestral diet eliminates this risk by cooking the food at low temperatures, which helps to kill any potentially harmful bacteria.

Another potential risk of raw feeding is the possibility of nutrient imbalances, which can lead to deficiencies and related health problems. Raw diets can be difficult to balance properly, as they often lack certain essential nutrients that are found in commercially available dog food. The modern ancestral diet addresses this risk by including a variety of nutrient-rich ingredients, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as supplements if necessary, to ensure that dogs are getting all of the essential nutrients they need.

In addition to the risk of nutrient imbalances, raw meat is generally less digestible than cooked or air-dried food, which can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation in some dogs. The modern ancestral diet addresses this risk.

You can find MHD dog food here.