Why I Consider Species-Appropriate Dog Nutrition (Raw + Vegetables + Natural Supplements) the Most Sensible Choice

If you’ve ever wondered why I’m so clear about choosing a species-appropriate, natural-based diet for dogs: this isn’t about trends. It’s about biology, digestion, nutrient quality, and long-term health. 👉 just like for humans! And yes — it’s absolutely allowed to be really delicious, too (according to my dog 😄).

1) Dogs are not “kibble machines” – their bodies are designed for real food

Dogs may have adapted to living alongside humans, but their digestive system is still far closer to a prey-based biological model than to highly processed industrial food. That does not mean “only meat and nothing else.” But it does mean food the body can recognize, rather than pellets or canned mixtures created primarily through industrial processing.

And let’s be honest for a moment: Would you feel truly vital long-term if you ate dry crackers or canned mush every single day? That comparison alone helps many people understand it immediately.

2) Processing is not neutral – “ultra-processed” also applies to pet food

Dry dog food is often heavily processed (e.g. extrusion, high heat, long shelf life, palatants/flavor enhancers). Processing can be practical — but it also changes structure, bioavailability, and often the way animals consume food (very tasty, but not necessarily optimally nourishing or regulating appetite).

Interestingly, research increasingly discusses whether a diet consisting primarily of ultra-processed foods may be linked to certain chronic issues in pets, particularly related to gut health. [🔗Source]

3) What is (unfortunately) found in “regular” dog food more often than many realize

This is not about fear-mongering — it’s about transparency. Scientific analyses have identified measurable levels of various elements and metals in commercial pet food (levels vary widely depending on product, region, and testing). [🔗Source] Additionally, mycotoxins (mold toxins) are a recurring issue in dry feed and pet food, especially because grain- and plant-based ingredients can naturally carry contamination — even in “premium” products. [🔗Source]

Does that mean every kibble is “toxic”? No.

Does it mean ingredient sourcing, quality control, and batch testing matter enormously? Absolutely.

4) Why raw + vegetables + natural supplements work so well for many dogs

Many guardians, including myself, report:

• improved digestion / “better output quality”

• shinier coats

• more stable energy levels

• reduced itching or vague chronic complaints

• better immune systems

  
  

Anecdotes don’t replace science — but there are studies comparing biomarkers and metabolic indicators between different feeding approaches. For example, one study (Staffordshire Bull Terriers) found that dogs fed kibble showed biomarkers more associated with an unfavorable metabolic profile, while raw-fed dogs displayed more favorable values within that study setting. [🔗 Source] More broadly, scientific literature examines raw meat-based diets (RMBD) in dogs, including both potential benefits and clearly stated limitations.

5) Very important: Species-appropriate does NOT mean “just meat + a bit of vegetables”

This is the key point for me.

Species-appropriate nutrition is a system — not a recipe.

A self-prepared raw diet can be seriously unbalanced if not properly planned (calcium–phosphorus ratio, trace minerals, iodine, omega-3/6 balance, vitamin D, copper, zinc, etc.). This is consistently highlighted in veterinary and nutritional literature — along with hygiene considerations and pathogen risks if raw feeding is not handled correctly.

That’s why my approach is not: “Raw = automatically better.” My approach is: Natural + balanced + carefully planned + individually adapted.

6) My “why” in one sentence

I choose this way of feeding because I don’t just want my dog to be full — I want to support him in being long-term resilient, vital, stable, and truly nourished.

And yes… my dog would add: “I mean… I could definitely live without the veggies. But I’ll admit — they do make me feel pretty amazing.” 😄🥕🐶

A fair and important note

I’m sharing my perspective and reasoning — this does not replace veterinary advice. Especially for puppies, seniors, dogs with chronic conditions, or dogs on medication, individualized diet planning (ideally with a veterinarian and qualified nutritionist) is strongly recommended.