Below you will find links to peer-reviewed articles and studies that debunk the common myths and misconceptions regarding fresh food. There are studies that address the concerns about bacterial contamination, nutritional imbalances, and the danger of feeding bones. We also included links to articles revealing fresh food's benefits for dogs' health, well-being, and longevity. We have summarized the articles for your convenience but encourage you to fully explore those articles of interest to alleviate your concerns with fresh feeding. 

Pathogenic transmission from raw meat-based diets to humans is RARE.

The study,<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2021.741575/full"> Low Number of Owner-Reported Suspected Transmission of Foodborne Pathogens From Raw Meat-Based Diets Fed to Dogs and/or Cats,</a>  focuses on owner-reported cases of suspected foodborne illness in pets that were attributed to Raw Meat-Based Diets. The researchers collected data through an online survey where pet owners reported instances of illness in their animals that they believed were connected to the consumption of raw meat diets.

The aim of this worldwide survey was to determine owner-reported frequency of pathogen transmission to humans living in or in contact with households feeding their pets raw, minimally processed (MP) diets. A total of 5,611 responses were gathered from 62 countries, with 77.1% of households feeding only MP diets to dogs and/or cats with no confirmed cases of pathogen transmission or <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/macrophages">infection</a> by laboratory testing. Eleven households were classified as having experienced “probable” transmission, and 20 households were classified as having experienced “possible” transmission, resulting in 31 households being identified as potential transmission cases. The remaining households, 99.45%, were not considered to have experienced potential transmission of foodborne pathogens based on their responses to the survey. Based on the results of this survey, confirmed pathogen transmission from MP diets to humans appears to be rare. They concluded that potential or probable cases of pathogen transmission are likely dependent upon hygiene and food safety measures, and more education surrounding food safety should reduce risk.

Survey of over 16,000 households  feeding raw food to their pets reveals a safety level of 99.96%.

The article, <a href="https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1136/vr.105122">Owners’ perception of acquiring infections through raw pet food: a comprehensive internet-based survey</a> , examines pet owners' perceptions and beliefs regarding the potential risk of acquiring infections from handling and feeding raw pet food. Raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) consist of uncooked animal products and are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners.

There have been concerns about the risk of bacterial contamination from raw pet food to humans, but research is still scarce. This cross-sectional study used a worldwide internet survey-based data to evaluate the impact of raw pet foods on human health from the owners’ experience. From 16 475 households, 0.2 percent (n=39) reported having had a transmission of a pathogen from the raw pet food to a human family member during the time that <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/raw-feeding">raw feeding</a> had been used in the household. Only in three of those households was the same pathogen found in the human sample analyzed and also confirmed in the raw pet food (0.02 percent of all data). Moreover, 0.1 percent (n=24) reported suspecting that a disease could have been transmitted to a human from the pet food. Feeding salmon and turkey, using more than 50 percent of the diet as raw foods, and preparing the raw food in the same place and utensils as the family foods all had a negative association with infections. Having 2 to 6-year-old children living in the household was associated with more infections, although adults were the most frequently infected.

Benefit over risk: Pet owners realize the benefits of feeding real food over the risk of bacterial contamination.

The article <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5644655/pdf/vetsci-04-00033.pdf">Raw Meat-Based Diets in Dogs and Cats</a> explores the use of raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) for dogs and cats as an alternative to traditional commercial pet foods. RMBDs consist of uncooked animal products, including muscle meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables or supplements.

Many companion animal owners commonly practice feeding pets raw meat-based diets (RMBDs), which has received increasing attention recently. It may be beneficial for the animals but may also pose a health risk for both pets and their owners, as RMBDs may be contaminated by enteric pathogens—such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Yersinia—which are the most common zoonotic <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/bacteria">bacteria</a> causing enteritis in humans.

Little information exists on the prevalence of Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Yersinia in commercial RMBDs from retail stores. There is also little evidence on the significance of raw meat feeding on the shedding of Campylobacter, Salmonella, and enteropathogenic Yersinia in the feces of pets. Therefore, the second goal was to study the presence of these pathogens in dogs and cats fed RMBDs.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) only sporadically detected Campylobacter, Salmonella, and enteropathogenic Yersinia in RMBDs. Culturing did not find these pathogens, indicating a low contamination level in frozen RMBDs. They were also detected in the feces of dogs and cats, but the association with feeding RMBDs to them remained unclear.

Despite pet food bags stating that the food is complete and balanced, there have been numerous accounts of commercial pet food not having the nutrient profile listed on the label. Additionally, the <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/aafco">AAFCO</a> and NRC recommendations are stated minimums of each nutrient, not the ideal levels for every dog or cat. 

Are established AAFCO guidelines accurate and applicable?

Estabilishing guidelines for nutrient minimums is a challenging and inaccurate task. The article, <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/challenges-in-developing-nutrient-guidelines-for-companion-animals/1633D6243018AAE933BAC32A840CDA03">Challenges in developing nutrient guidelines for companion animals | British Journal of Nutrition | Cambridge Core</a>  , addresses the challenges of developing nutrient guidelines for companion animals, such as dogs and cats. The study highlights the complexities and limitations of establishing standardized nutrient recommendations for these animals. It underscores the need for further research, improved data collection, and a holistic approach considering individual variability and real-life feeding scenarios. By addressing these challenges, more accurate and tailored nutrient recommendations can be developed to support the health and well-being of companion animals.

There were two studies in the report, RAW PROOF , that summarize trials with raw feeding.  Here is the summary of the trials.

Project 1: The first research project investigated whether a complete, species-appropriate raw food diet for adult dogs could meet the highest nutritional guidelines set by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) without additional synthetic supplementation. Five raw food recipes were selected: raw meat, raw meaty bone, and raw vegetables. The recipes were analyzed over 24 months, and the nutritional values were compared to FEDIAF guidelines. While some nutrient levels in the analyzed formulas fell outside the FEDIAF guidelines, the manufacturer's substantiation of nutritional adequacy and safety confirmed that each formula met the requirements. The complete diet, comprising the five formulas, was found to meet FEDIAF nutritional requirements. The research also identified limitations and issues with the FEDIAF nutritional guidelines, such as their relevance to raw diets and reliance on outdated or unpublished data. Overall, the study concluded that the selected diet of species-appropriate raw food recipes could meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs.

Project 2: This study aimed to investigate the effects of feeding a raw food diet to a random sample of adult dogs. The study followed the feeding trial protocol recommended by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) with some variations. Unlike the standard protocol that uses laboratory conditions, the dogs in this study remained in their usual homes to reflect real-life conditions. Additionally, a larger sample size of 26 dogs was used instead of the minimum requirement of eight. The trial lasted for 26 weeks, and dogs were fed a consistent raw food diet with restricted knuckle bones, pure liver treats, and unrestricted <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/adenosine-triphosphate">water</a>.

Throughout the trial, various observations and measurements were recorded, including daily food consumption, body weights, blood tests, physical examinations, and any medication administered. Three dogs were removed from the trial for aggressive behavior, refusal to eat, and unrelated issues.

At the end of the trial, all dogs were examined for signs of nutritional deficiency or excess, and none were found. The dogs maintained their body weights within acceptable limits, and the average values for hemoglobin, packed cell volume, serum <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/albumin">albumin</a>, and serum alkaline phosphatase met or exceeded the AAFCO requirements. Detailed results can be found in the appendices of the research report.

Mineral analysis claims found to be false for many commercial diets.

The article, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-17159-7#:~:text=The%20results%20suggest%20broad%20non,did%20not%20meet%20nutritional%20requirements">Mineral analysis of complete dog and cat foods in the UK and compliance with European guidelines</a> , presents a study that aimed to assess the mineral content of commercial dog and cat foods in the UK and determine their compliance with European guidelines.

The researchers collected 110 dog and 30 cat food samples from various brands and types available in the UK market. These samples were then analyzed to determine their mineral composition, including <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/calcium">calcium</a>, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, copper, <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/zinc">zinc</a>, iron, manganese, and iodine.

The study results revealed significant mineral content variations among the different food samples. Most dog and cat foods meet the European guidelines for essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. However, there were some instances of non-compliance, particularly with trace minerals like copper, zinc, iron, manganese, and iodine.

The researchers found that certain mineral deficiencies or excesses could be identified in specific food types or brands. They also highlighted the importance of monitoring and ensuring appropriate mineral levels in commercial pet foods to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and cats.

Commercial dog food companies add excessive synthetic minerals to your dog's food.

In the study, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29953228/">Mineral Composition of Dry Dog Foods: Impact on Nutrition and Potential Toxicity</a> , a detailed mineral profile for Se, Cu, Mn, Zn, NA, K, Ca, P, MG, and FE was conducted on a selection of commercially available complete dry dog foods. The contribution of ingredients to the mineral composition was correlated to the food market segment. Results showed an oversupply of essential elements due to the <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/adenosine-triphosphate">energy</a> density effect on feed intake. Additives contributed from 40.8 to 55.1% to the total trace elements contents. Except for Se, all trace elements were supplied above the nutritional requirements of adult dogs. The legal limits of Cu, Se, and Zn were surpassed. This work brings awareness to finding supplementation strategies that ensure nutritional adequacy and avoid waste.

Other conclusions of the study focused on the importance of evaluating the <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/bioavailable">bioavailability</a> of minerals in dog foods. Factors such as mineral source, processing methods, and interactions with other ingredients can affect mineral bioavailability and their nutritional impact.

The article emphasizes the need for manufacturers to ensure proper mineral composition and quality control in dry dog foods. It suggests that regulatory guidelines and standards should be established to maintain pet foods' nutritional integrity and safety. Additionally, pet owners are encouraged to carefully read product labels and choose dog foods that provide a balanced mineral profile.

Study finds that many commercial pet foods have high P and low Ca levels.

In the study, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jvim.15689">Evaluation of phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium content in commercially available foods formulated for healthy cats - Summers - 2020</a> , high dietary phosphorus (P) and low calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (Ca:P) are associated with kidney damage in cats, yet there are no established guidelines for dietary P maximum for cats. The objectives of this study were to quantify crude protein, P, Ca, and magnesium (Mg) concentrations in cat foods and compare among food formats (dry, canned, raw), primary protein ingredients, protein concentrations (low, moderate, high), <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/grainfree">grain-free</a> versus grain-containing foods, foods intended for adult maintenance versus all life stages, and cost. Samples were obtained from 82 commercial nonprescription cat foods. The mineral concentrations and crude protein were measured and compared among food categories. Twenty-seven foods contained ≥3.6 g P/1000 kcal metabolizable energy (ME), of which 7 exceeded 4.8 g/1000 kcal ME. Thirteen foods had a low Ca:P ratio (≤1.0). The low-protein diet group had no products ≥3.6 g P/1000 kcal ME, which was significantly different compared to the high-protein diet group (52% of products had ≥3.6 g P/1000 kcal ME; P = .01). No significant differences in P content and Ca:P ratio were found among other diet categories. Canned foods had significantly lower Mg compared to dry (P &lt; .001) and raw (P = .007) foods. Declared minimum P and Ca were significantly lower than analyzed concentrations (P = .0005 and P = .003, respectively). The study's conclusions indicated that with the high number of foods with high P and low Ca, pet food regulatory reform should be considered.

<a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/gut-microbiome">Gut Microbiome</a> 

The importance of the gut microbiome cannot be overstated. Below are examples of studies on the value of a fresh food diet on a dog's gut microbiome.

Feeding your dog's gut microbiome with fresh food increases the production of short-chain fatty acids.

The article, <a href="https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-017-0981-z">Raw meat-based diet influences faecal microbiome and end products of </a>fermentation<a href="https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-017-0981-z"> in healthy dogs</a>,  investigates the impact of a raw meat-based diet on healthy dogs' fecal microbiomes and fermentation end products. The study aims to understand how feeding a raw meat diet influences the microbial composition and metabolic byproducts in the dogs' gastrointestinal tract.

The researchers conducted a feeding trial in which dogs were switched from a commercial dry food diet to a raw meat-based diet. Fecal samples were collected before and after the diet change, and the microbial profiles were analyzed using DNA sequencing techniques. Additionally, the researchers measured various fermentation end products, such as short-chain <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/fatty-acids">fatty acids</a> (SCFAs) and ammonia.

The study found that the raw meat-based diet significantly influenced the fecal microbiome of the dogs. There were shifts in the relative abundance of specific bacterial taxa and overall microbial diversity and composition changes. These changes were associated with alterations in the production of fermentation end products.

Fresh foods increase the levels of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut.

The article, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30110340/">The fecal microbiome and metabolome differs between dogs fed Bones and Raw Food (BARF) diets and dogs fed commercial diets</a> , compares the fecal microbiome and metabolome between dogs fed Bones and Raw Food (BARF) diets and dogs fed commercial diets. The study aims to assess the impact of these different diets on the microbial composition and metabolic profiles in the dogs' gastrointestinal tracts.

The researchers conducted a study involving dogs that were either fed a BARF diet or a commercial diet. Fecal samples were collected from the dogs, and both the microbial profiles and metabolite levels were analyzed.

In terms of the fecal metabolome, distinct differences were observed between the two diet groups. Dogs on BARF diets had higher levels of certain metabolites, such as <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/amino-acids">amino acids</a> and volatile fatty acids, while dogs on commercial diets had different metabolite profiles.

Fresh foods promote diversity in your dog's skin microbiome.

The study, <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/12/15/1881">Fresh food consumption increases the microbiome diversity and protected changes in bacteria composition on the skin of pet dogs compared to dry foods</a> , aims to understand how different diets influence the skin microbiota of dogs and whether fresh food diets have specific benefits in this regard.

The researchers conducted a study where dogs were fed either a fresh or dry food diet. Skin samples were collected from the dogs, and the microbial profiles were analyzed using DNA sequencing techniques. The study focused on evaluating the diversity of the skin microbiome and assessing any changes in bacterial composition.

The study found that the bacterial composition on the skin of dogs fed fresh food diets differed from that of dogs on dry food diets. The fresh food diet led to specific changes in the abundance and distribution of bacterial species on the skin, suggesting a diet-dependent influence on the skin microbiota.

These findings suggest that fresh food consumption promotes a more diverse and distinct skin microbiome in dogs than dry food diets, highlighting the potential benefits of incorporating fresh food into a dog's diet to maintain a healthy and balanced skin microbiota.

Dietary change had a significant impact on the fecal microbiome of the dogs.

The article, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1828051X.2019.1645624">Substitution of a commercial diet with raw meat complemented with vegetable foods containing chickpeas or peas affects the faecal microbiome in healthy dogs</a> , investigates the impact of substituting a commercial diet with a raw meat diet supplemented with vegetable food, including chickpeas or peas, on healthy dogs' fecal microbiome. The study aims to understand how these dietary changes influence the microbial composition in the dogs' gastrointestinal tracts.

The researchers conducted a feeding trial in which dogs were transitioned from a commercial diet to a raw meat diet supplemented with either chickpeas or peas. Fecal samples were collected before and after the diet change, and the microbial profiles were analyzed using DNA sequencing techniques.

Interestingly, the effects on the fecal microbiome differed depending on whether the diet was supplemented with chickpeas or peas. Each dietary modification resulted in distinct shifts in the microbial profiles, suggesting that the choice of vegetable food source influenced the microbial response.

Fresh food diets decrease harmful bacteria.

The article, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34463606/">The effects of raw-meat diets on the gastrointestinal microbiota of the cat and dog: a review</a> , provides a comprehensive review of the effects of raw-meat diets on the gastrointestinal microbiota of cats and dogs. The study examines the impact of raw-meat diets on the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota in these companion animals.

The researchers reviewed various studies investigating the effects of raw-meat diets on the gastrointestinal microbiota of cats and dogs. They analyzed the findings to understand the changes in microbial communities and their potential implications.

Furthermore, the study suggests that raw-meat diets can enhance the diversity of the gut microbiota in cats and dogs, promoting a more balanced microbial ecosystem. This improved microbial diversity may contribute to better digestive health and overall well-being in these animals.

Feeding fresh, whole food diets revealed potential health benefits of natural diets, such as improved <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/cellulase">digestion</a>, reduced risk of certain diseases, and enhanced overall well-being.

Fresh foods enhance overall health while preventing common diseases.

The article, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25006071/">Natural pet food: A review of natural diets and their impact on canine and feline physiology</a> , provides an overview of natural diets for dogs and cats and their effects on the physiology of these animals. The review discusses the definition of natural pet food and explores various aspects, including ingredients, processing methods, and nutritional composition. It highlights the importance of providing a balanced and complete diet that meets the specific nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. 

The article, <a href="https://archive.org/details/CAT11124570/page/n5/mode/2up">Nutrient composition of whole vertebrate prey (excluding fish) fed in zoos</a> , examines the nutrient composition of whole vertebrate prey commonly fed to zoo animals. The study analyzes the macronutrient and micronutrient content of various prey items, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, to assess their nutritional value for zoo animals. The researchers collected data from multiple zoos and used laboratory analysis to determine the nutrient composition of the prey species. The results indicate that vertebrate prey provides a rich and diverse nutrient profile, including high protein levels, fat, vitamins, and minerals. 

The study highlights the importance of incorporating whole prey items into the diets of captive animals to ensure they receive a balanced and species-appropriate nutritional intake. It also suggests that the nutrient composition of prey items can vary based on factors such as species, age, and geographical location, emphasizing the need for individualized dietary planning in zoo animal nutrition programs.

Although the study is focused on a specific product as a source of Omega-3s, it confirms the skin’s requirement for <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/epa">EPA</a> and DHA as it demonstrated the positive effects of an <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/omega3">Omega-3</a> essential fatty acids supplement on dogs with poor-quality coats. The supplementation resulted in improvements in clinical signs and alterations in fatty acid concentrations in the erythrocyte membrane, hair shafts, and skin surface. This research provides valuable evidence for the use of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation as a beneficial intervention for enhancing the overall skin and coat condition of dogs.

The EPA and DHA in Omega-3 fatty acids are required for your dog's healthy skin and hair coat.

Although the study, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0952327820300983">A prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the effects of an n-3 essential fatty acids supplement (Agepi® ω3) on clinical signs, and fatty acid concentrations in the erythrocyte membrane, hair shafts and skin surface of dogs with poor quality coats</a> , is focused on a specific product as a source of Omega-3s, it confirms the skin’s requirement for EPA and DHA as it demonstrated the positive effects of an Omega-3 essential fatty acids supplement on dogs with poor-quality coats. The supplementation resulted in improvements in clinical signs and alterations in fatty acid concentrations in the erythrocyte membrane, hair shafts, and skin surface. This research provides valuable evidence for the use of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation as a beneficial intervention for enhancing the overall skin and coat condition of dogs.

Zinc absorption can be altered by phytates, fiber, and other minerals in your dog's meal.

The comprehensive review, <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/4/978">Zinc in Dog Nutrition, Health and Disease: A Review,</a>  focuses on the role of zinc in dog nutrition, health, and disease. Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various physiological processes in dogs, including growth, development, immune function, wound healing, and skin health.

The article explores the sources of dietary zinc and its absorption and utilization in the canine body. It discusses the factors that can affect zinc bioavailability, such as the presence of phytates, fiber, and other minerals. The review emphasizes the need for balanced and well-formulated dog diets that meet the recommended zinc levels to prevent deficiencies or excesses.

Additionally, the role of zinc in specific health conditions and diseases is discussed. Zinc supplementation has been shown to have benefits in certain dermatological conditions, such as zinc-responsive dermatosis and zinc-deficiency-associated <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/alopecia">alopecia</a>. It also plays a role in supporting immune function, particularly in cases of zinc deficiency-related immune suppression.

The review highlights the importance of zinc supplementation in certain disease states, including zinc-responsive conditions and <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/chronic">chronic</a> renal disease. However, it cautions against excessive zinc supplementation, which can lead to toxicity and adverse effects.

Puppies fed REAL food are less likely to develop chronic enteropathy as adults.

The article, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-27866-z">The effect of puppyhood and adolescent diet on the incidence of chronic enteropathy in dogs later in life</a> ,  investigates the impact of an early-life diet on developing chronic enteropathy (CE) in dogs as they age. Chronic enteropathy is a group of gastrointestinal disorders characterized by long-term <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/inflammation">inflammation</a> and digestive disturbances.

The study focuses on puppyhood and adolescent stages, recognizing them as critical periods for nutritional influence and potential risk factors for later health issues. The researchers aim to determine whether specific dietary factors during these developmental stages contribute to the incidence of CE in dogs later in life.

Through a retrospective analysis of medical records and dietary information, the study compares the diets of dogs diagnosed with CE to those without the condition. It explores various dietary variables, including the type of diet (commercial dry food, commercial wet food, raw food, homemade diets), the presence of specific ingredients, and the duration of exposure to different diets during puppyhood and adolescence.

The study's findings suggest a correlation between certain dietary factors during puppyhood and adolescence and an increased risk of developing CE later in life. Specifically, dogs fed commercial dry food during puppyhood were found to have a higher incidence of CE than those fed other diets. Additionally, more prolonged exposure to a specific diet during puppyhood or adolescence was associated with an increased risk of CE.

Raw food enhances your dog's genetic potential to fight disease.

The article, <a href="https://helda.helsinki.fi/handle/10138/231737">The relationships between environment, diet, transcriptome and atopic dermatitis in dogs</a> , explores the complex interactions between environmental factors, diet, gene expression (transcriptome), and atopic dermatitis (AD) development in dogs. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition commonly observed in dogs.

In the clinical diet intervention study, 46 client-owned atopic and healthy Staffordshire bull terriers were fed two different diets (raw and dry food). Hematological and clinical chemistry profiles, <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/vitamin-b9">folate</a>, B12, iron, and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF- β1) concentration were analyzed. In addition, gene expression profiles were determined from the skin samples of eight dogs. Cholesterol was significantly increased in the dry food fed dogs and decreased in the raw food fed dogs. In addition, the raw food significantly decreased several parameters, including alkaline phosphatase and <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/glucose">glucose</a>. Plasma folate and B12, and whole blood iron were significantly decreased, and TGF- β1 significantly increased by the raw food diet.

The skin gene expression was also affected by the diet. Genes related to immune defense, reactive oxygen species, and antioxidants were upregulated in the dogs fed raw food. Several genes were found differentially expressed between atopic and healthy dogs, some unrelated to the diet fed and some differentially affected by the diet in atopic and healthy dogs.

Fresh food diets are shown to protect dogs from hip dysplasia.

The article,<a href="https://helda.helsinki.fi/items/e2cf2ac9-8b4f-434b-9009-77f1d11420f4"> Influence of nutrition at young age on canine hip dysplasia in German Shepherd dogs</a> , examines the influence of nutrition during early development on the development of canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in German Shepherd dogs. The research utilizes a case-control study design, comparing a group of German Shepherd dogs diagnosed with CHD to a control group of healthy dogs. The aim is to determine if there is an association between nutrition, particularly the BARF diet, and the risk of developing CHD.

Omega-3 fatty acids positively impact arthritic dogs.

The article, <a href="https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/236/1/javma.236.1.67.xml">Evaluation of the effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis</a> ,  investigates the effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids on weight-bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) to evaluate whether including omega-3 fatty acids in the diet can improve weight-bearing and mobility in dogs suffering from OA.

The research utilizes a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial design. Dogs with diagnosed OA were divided into two groups, one receiving a diet supplemented with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids and the other receiving a placebo. The weight-bearing ability of the dogs was assessed using a force plate system.

The study's findings indicate that dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids positively impacts weight bearing in dogs with OA. The group receiving the omega-3 supplementation demonstrates improved weight distribution and increased force exertion during weight-bearing activities compared to the placebo group. These results suggest omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in dogs with OA.

The protein source and moisture content of a dog’s diet greatly impact the risk of chronic enteropathy.

The article, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jvim.16872?fbclid=IwAR2yJpNwfVNAekOq9R2jtIR8PyHH4hw02UkOw2BC_IbnfYd_BpPsdCO_w-o">Pre-illness dietary risk factors in dogs with chronic enteropathy</a>, explores the potential dietary factors that may contribute to developing chronic enteropathy in dogs. Chronic enteropathy is a group of gastrointestinal disorders characterized by persistent digestive problems like diarrhea and vomiting.

The study aims to identify any dietary risk factors that may precede the onset of chronic enteropathy in dogs. Researchers collected and analyzed data from a group of dogs with this condition and compared it to a control group without gastrointestinal issues.

The study's key findings indicate that specific dietary factors, including the protein source and minimal moisture content in commercial dog food, were associated with an increased risk of developing chronic enteropathy in dogs.

Study revealed that a raw meat-based diet decreased inflammation in dogs

The study <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8174467/">Clinical health markers in dogs fed raw meat-based or commercial extruded kibble diets</a> , highlights several potential health advantages of RMBD, as reported by dog owners and supported by clinical evaluations. Notably, owners feeding their dogs RMBD cited improvements in dental health, reduced fecal output, better skin and coat condition, enhanced immunity, and reduced inflammatory issues. The study employed a single-blinded veterinary observer to objectively assess clinical outcomes, focusing on integument, dental, and ear health, revealing modest improvements in dogs on RMBD compared to those on kibble. Furthermore, the study found firmer fecal consistency in RMBD-fed dogs.

Biochemical parameters also indicated potential health benefits of RMBD, with raw-fed dogs showing lower total serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, which could suggest less hepatic strain compared to kibble-fed counterparts. The study highlighted that while both diet groups showed normal biochemical ranges, the differences in parameters like globulin, total protein concentration, and ALP activity warrant further investigation into the impact of diet on dog health. 

The gut microbiome plays a major role in the brain-gut axis as seratonin, <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/dopamine">dopamine</a>, <a href="https://feedreal.com/glossary/gaba">GABA</a>, and norepinephirine are all produced in the dog’s large intestine.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND FRESH DOG FOOD

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