https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/food-and-nutrition/fresh-dog-food
*Dogs are OMNIVORES.
A nutritionally complete and balanced dog diet must include the right amounts of 5 key nutrients: carbohydrates for quick energy, proteins to support muscle and tissue development, fats for energy and essential fatty acids, vitamins for metabolic functions, and minerals for structural and physiological roles.
An imbalance in any of these components - whether too much or too little - can lead to health complications. Therefore, ensuring that a dog’s diet meets established nutritional guidelines is essential for their long-term well-being.
Fresh dog food is typically defined by its minimal processing, limited use of preservatives, and use of recognizable ingredients such as meats and vegetables. These foods are often cooked gently to preserve nutrients and may come in various formats, including refrigerated, frozen, air dried, or dehydrated.
For these diets to be complete, they must be supplemented with essential vitamins and minerals to meet established nutrition standards for dogs.
While fresh dog food can offer benefits such as high digestibility and palatability, it also presents potential concerns.
These include the risk of nutritional imbalance if the formulation is not properly regulated, contamination from pathogens in some varieties - especially raw - and a generally higher cost compared to traditional dog foods.
Pet owners considering this type of diet should ensure it is nutritionally complete, safe from contamination, and suitable for their dog’s specific health needs.
Chewy editorial team offers guidance for pet parents exploring whether fresh dog food is the right fit for their furry companion.
While fresh diets can offer complete nutrition with recognizable ingredients, it is essential to consult your veterinarian to ensure any dietary change supports your dog’s individual health needs and life stage.
