Understanding Diet, Ingredients, and Heart Health in Dogs There has been significant discussion in recent years about the relationship between certain dog food formulations and heart health. Much of the attention has focused on grain-free diets and their potential association with a condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the topic is complex and continues to be studied by veterinary researchers, nutritionists, and regulatory agencies. Understanding how ingredients and formulation methods differ among dog foods can help pet owners make informed decisions about nutrition. What Prompted the FDA Investigation In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began reviewing reports of dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs eating certain commercial diets. Many of the diets reported during that review shared some...
Understanding Digestive Health in Dogs If your dog experiences ongoing digestive upset, skin irritation, or food sensitivities, it may be helpful to take a closer look at overall digestive health and diet. A dog’s digestive system plays an important role in nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall well-being. Because so many body systems interact with digestion, nutrition can play a key role in supporting normal gastrointestinal function. The Role of the Digestive Barrier Inside the digestive tract is a protective lining that helps regulate what passes from the gut into the body. This barrier allows nutrients to be absorbed while helping keep unwanted substances contained within the digestive system. Researchers sometimes refer to changes in this barrier as intestinal permeability,...
Why a Raw Diet for Dogs Is Key When it comes to our dogs, we all want the same thing: a long, vibrant life supported by the best possible nutrition. At RawFedK9, we believe the way to achieve that is through a species-appropriate raw diet. One that respects canine biology, nourishes from the inside out, and fuels dogs with the food they were built to eat. But what does that actually look like? And why are more dog owners choosing this path every day? Let’s break it down. What Is a Raw Diet for Dogs? A raw diet focuses on whole, unprocessed, biologically appropriate food. That means muscle meat, raw edible bones, and organ meats. The same building blocks that...
Common Misconceptions About Raw Dog Food Raw dog food has gained attention over the years, but despite its growing popularity, there are still many misconceptions surrounding raw feeding. From concerns about bacteria to the belief that raw feeding is overly complicated, these misunderstandings can cause hesitation for dog owners who are curious about this feeding style. In this blog, we’ll look at several common myths about raw dog food and explain how feeding works here at RawFedK9. Myth #1: Raw Dog Food Is Dangerous Because of Bacteria One of the most common concerns people hear about raw feeding involves bacteria in raw meat. Like any raw meat product, bacteria can be present, which is why proper sourcing, storage, and handling...
Transitioning your dog to a raw diet is a significant but rewarding change that offers many benefits, such as improved digestion, better coat health, and increased energy At RawFedK9, we’ve created a simple and supportive transition process that helps ensure your dog adapts to their new, nutrient-dense raw food without the digestive upset. Whether you’re switching from kibble or another raw brand, this guide will walk you through the steps to make the transition as smooth as possible. Before You Start: Get Prepped The first step in a successful transition is preparation. Here’s what you’ll need to do before you begin: Use the Raw Feeding Calculator To ensure your dog is getting the right amount of food for their size...
