There’s no shortage of opinions on what the best diet is for dogs, with commercial kibble and raw feeding both having staunch supporters. But what is the natural diet of a dog in the wild? Can we really say one method is better than another? Let’s take a closer look at canine nutrition to see what we can learn.
Feeding Dogs Like Wolves
In recent years, there has been an increase in the popularity of raw, meat-based diets for dogs and other pets. These diets are often promoted as being “biologically appropriate,” “ancestral,” or “species-specific”. Proponents of raw diets claim that this is the way that dogs and other animals would eat in the wild and that it is a more natural way of feeding them.
However, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, some studies have shown that raw diets may actually be harmful to pets. For example, one study found:
Dogs fed a raw diet were more likely to be infected with Salmonella bacteria than those fed a cooked diet.
Another study found that raw meat may contain high levels of potentially harmful bacteria. Therefore, it is important to speak with a veterinarian before deciding whether or not to switch to a raw diet for your pet.
Learn what human foods dogs can and can not eat in our detailed guide here.
Dogs Did Not Evolve From Modern Wolves
The question of where dogs come from has been the subject of much debate and speculation. Traditionally, it was thought that dogs were simply domesticated versions of wolves, but more recent research has called this theory into question. In fact, there is no evidence to suggest that dogs and wolves actually evolved from a common ancestor. This means that, at some point in the distant past, a group of wolves split off from the main population and began to develop into what we now know as dogs.
While the exact details of this process are still unclear, there is no doubt that dogs and wolves are closely related. Both species share a number of physical and behavioral traits, and they are able to interbreed to produce viable offspring. However, there are also some significant differences between the two animals. For instance, dogs are generally smaller than wolves and have shorter snouts. They also tend to be less aggressive and more social creatures, which is likely due to their long history of living alongside humans.
So, while it is still not definitively known where dogs come from, the most likely explanation is that they are the product of evolution from a common ancestor with grey wolves. This theory provides a compelling framework for understanding the relationship between these two closely.
Read More: What Kind of Human Foods Dogs Can Eat?
Wolf Diets Don’t Apply to Dogs
The grey wolf is often used as the basis for creating diets for domesticated dogs. After all, the two share a common ancestor, and dogs are still classified as members of the Canidae family, which includes wolves, coyotes, and jackals. However, there is one inherent problem with basing dog diets on those of wolves: dogs have been evolving separately from their wolf ancestors for thousands of years.
As a result, dogs have developed different nutritional needs than their wild cousins. For example, while wolves are mostly carnivores, dogs are omnivores, able to digest both plant and animal material. In addition, dogs have shorter digestive tracts than wolves, meaning that they cannot process roughage as effectively. As a result, it is important to consider a dog’s individual needs when creating its diet, rather than blindly following the lead of the grey wolf.
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Differences Between Wolves and Dogs
Organisms evolve in response to different environments, or selective pressures. Dogs have evolved specifically to live around the presence of humans, and this has led to some fundamental differences between them and the modern wolves of today.
For example, dogs have a longer lifespan than wolves, and they also reach sexual maturity at a later age. This is likely due to the fact that they are not exposed to the same level of predation and competition that wolves face in the wild. In addition, dogs have a more robust immune system, which allows them to better withstand diseases. This is likely due to the fact that they are routinely vaccinated against many common diseases.
Finally, dogs have a greater capacity for learning than wolves. This is likely due to the fact that they are constantly exposed to human cues and learn to respond to them. As a result, dogs have evolved specifically to live around the presence of humans, and this has led to some fundamental differences between them and the modern wolves of today.
What “Wild” Dogs are Actually Eating
While the diets of domesticated dogs are based on those of wolves, there is one key difference:
domestic dogs are not consuming a diet that is entirely composed of raw meat. In fact, most “wild” dogs today are actually eating a diet that includes some cooked food.
There are a number of reasons for this change in diet.
First, as domesticated animals, dogs have access to a variety of different food sources that they would not have in the wild. This includes table scraps, leftovers, and even commercial dog food.
In addition, cooking meat makes it easier to digest and provides additional nutrients that are not present in raw meat.
As a result, while the diet of the modern domesticated dog is still based on that of the grey wolf, it has been adapted to include a variety of different food sources. This change in diet has led to some fundamental differences between the two animals. For instance, dogs are generally smaller than wolves and have shorter snouts. They also tend to be less aggressive and more social creatures, likely due to the fact that they are not constantly competing for food.
Learn More: Why You Should Not Totally Rely on Dog Food Advisor
What Should Pet Dogs Eat?
The best diet for a pet dog is one that is tailored to its individual needs. This includes taking into account the dog’s age, activity level, and health status. For example, puppies need a diet that is high in calories and protein to support their rapid growth. Senior dogs, on the other hand, may need a diet that is lower in calories to help them maintain a healthy weight. Dogs with health conditions may also require a special diet. For example, dogs with diabetes may need a diet that is low in sugar, while dogs with kidney disease may need a diet that is low in protein.
When it comes to choosing the right food for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s life stage. Puppies, for example, need a different diet than adult dogs. Second, take into account your dog’s activity level. Active dogs will need more calories than less active dogs. Finally, consider your dog’s health status. Dogs with health conditions may need a special diet.
When it comes to choosing the right food for your dog, the best thing to do is talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose food that is right for your dog’s individual needs.
