Without a doubt, fresh dog food is having a moment...well, hopefully more than a moment. Fresh food is the fastest growing sector in the pet food industry, and for good reason: people are starting to uncover the myths (and outright lies) told to us about our dogs' nutritional needs. For decades, the pet food industry has hit us with the messaging that kibble is the most nutritionally complete food for our pets, largely because it benefits them - it's cheap, easy to make, and there are few rules around what can and cannot be used to make it. Let's debunk some of the most prominent myths in pet food!
Myth #1: Kibble cleans your dog's teeth. Nope - studies show that does little if anything to reduce plaque build up; in fact, starchy kibble feeds oral bacteria and contributes to yeast overgrowth. (Meaty raw bones are still best for dental health)
Myth #2: Dog food must be "complete and balanced" at each and every meal. Consider, if you will, Cheerios. Yes, the breakfast cereal. Absolutely packed with synthetics, Cheerios purports to provide 100% of your daily vitamins and minerals. So, why not eat Cheerios for every meal instead of leafy greens, quality proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruit and vegetables? You know why - because the goal is overall health, including a healthy gut, which leads to strong immune system, healthy skin, hair and teeth, and overall body condition, function, and health. Humans aim for balanced nutrition over time, and dogs are no different. A rotation of fresh proteins, grains, fruits, and vegetables ensure our dogs get the vitamins and minerals they need for optimal health naturally over time.
Myth #3: AAFCO approved formulations = nutritionally sound food = the best food for your dog. Real talk: AAFCO sets minimums for vitamins and minerals in kibble, and these minimums are tested in excel spreadsheets, not in actual feeding trials. AAFCO does not test or approve food, and allows ingredients in dog food that isn't fit for human consumption.
Myth #4: Most fat in dog food is unhealthy and causes pancreatitis. Just like humans, dogs need healthy fats in their diet, and also just like humans, dogs should avoid trans fats. Where are trans fats found? In processed foods.Â
Myth #5: Shelf stable food that doesn't rot is good for living beings to consume. We don't need to explain this one, so we won't. You wouldn't let your kids subsist on shelf stable foods, so why is it good for your dog?
Myth #6: A dog's digestive system can't handle variety. In an attempt to keep us buying the same food for our dogs (i.e., dry kibble) we've been told that a diet of the same dry food is the best way to avoid stomach upset. Not providing variety and variation is actually what increases the likelihood of digestive issues due to a lack of microbial diversity and resultant production of short-chain fatty acids.