From food and nutrition to lifestyle, activity level, supplements, medicine, and treatments, everything must work together harmoniously. It’s a trending topic in the field of veterinary medicine, and pet food companies are quick to jump on the bandwagon, labeling their products as “holistic.” However, it’s important to note that not all items under this label are safe for dogs, and regulatory bodies are still working on establishing guidelines for companies. Despite this, many pet owners have seen positive results from holistic treatments and diets for their furry friends.
While these ideas may come from different schools of thought, they all contribute to the natural and holistic dog health approach, aiming to keep our furry companions in the best possible health using the right food, medicines, and natural elements. Determining the best holistic diet for a dog is not an exact science. As a responsible pet parent, it is crucial to consider every aspect of your dog’s well-being, including their needs, activity level, medical history, energy levels, environment, living conditions, diet, supplementation, medical conditions, breed, and genetics.
Each dog is unique, with their own set of requirements and preferences. While dogs have adapted to become omnivores due to domestication, studies have shown that they thrive on a carnivorous diet that is rich in protein. Contrary to the old myth, it has been proven that protein does not cause renal disease in dogs. Therefore, it is important to provide dogs with high-protein food that is free from grains and artificial ingredients. Thankfully, there are commercially available dog foods that meet these criteria.
These high-protein dog foods come in various forms such as dried, frozen, or fresh and raw preparations. Despite what some owners may believe, these foods are specifically designed to provide optimal nutrition for dogs. Alternatively, some owners choose to make their own homemade dog food. For those who want to mimic a wild dog’s diet, there is plenty of advice available. One popular option is the BARF diet, which stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or bones and raw food for dogs. The main components of this diet include raw meat (such as poultry, pork, beef, venison, or fish), a mixture of ground vegetables and meat, and dog supplements. Feeding dogs raw food is the most natural approach, but it requires dedication from the pet parent to sustain this diet.
In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing the best holistic diet for a dog. It is essential to consider their individual needs and preferences, and to provide them with high-protein food that is free from grains and artificial ingredients. Whether you opt for commercially available options or choose to make homemade dog food, the key is to prioritize your dog’s health and well-being.