What Would the Ideal Dog Food Look Like?

Have you ever observed the wide array of dog food varieties available today?

From high protein to low carbohydrate, holistic to all-natural, organic to grain-free, and even raw dog foods, the options seem endless.

Despite searching extensively for the best food for my dogs, I have concluded that the “ideal” dog food has not yet been created.

While some may claim that a specific diet is the ultimate choice for dogs, the quest for the perfect dog food continues.

Choosing the Best Dog Food: What Really Matters

Your neighbor’s vet might suggest a certain brand of dog food. However, when we strip away the emotions, flashy advertising, and financial motives, there’s one key question to consider…

What Defines the Perfect Dog Food?

When selecting dog food, it is essential to envision the characteristics of the perfect dog food.

An exemplar to adhere to.

A standard formula that sets the bar for evaluating all existing dog food options.

To steer us towards this goal, let’s delve into what the dietary preferences of ancient dogs might have entailed.

Evolution from Wolf to Dogs:

It is widely accepted that dogs originated from wolves approximately 15,000 years ago in Central Asia¹.

Wolves are known to be carnivores, evident from their teeth, digestive systems, and behavior.

Over time, dogs have transformed from wolves, adapting to survive on the scraps and leftovers of human food sources.

This evolutionary process has enabled dogs to display the ability to thrive on a varied diet.

Are Dogs Carnivores or Omnivores?

To address this question, it is essential to consider that all animals fall into…

Based on their genetic lineage, Dogs are often categorized as carnivores.

Nevertheless, in the interest of accuracy, it is crucial to acknowledge dogs evident omnivorous capabilities.

Therefore…

While dogs have adapted as omnivores, they still display a distinct and undeniable preference for a carnivorous diet.

A Comparison of a Dog’s Ancestral Diet and Modern Kibble

What should be the ideal nutrient composition of a dog’s diet?

Let’s juxtapose a dog’s natural ancestral diet with the nutrient makeup of a typical dry dog food…

It appears that the pet food industry has made use of the dog’s incredible willingness to consume almost anything.

Take note of the increased carbohydrate levels in kibble compared to a dog’s natural ancestral diet.

Also, observe the significantly reduced protein and fat content.

These two dietary profiles are not at all similar.

Therefore, isn’t it logical for a dog’s diet to be more well-rounded when compared to a natural ancestral diet? A dietary approach that many commercial dog food manufacturers choose to overlook.

The Final Verdict

Considering the vision of the perfect dog food, here are seven attributes you should consider when searching for a quality dog food…

Therefore, opting for a diet that aligns with what your dog would naturally select for herself seems like a sensible choice based on Mother Nature’s design.