- 2.1 Puppies after weaning
- 2.2 Adult dogs
- 2.3 Can you ensure the correct ratio of Calcium and Phosphorus in your dog's food?
- 3.1 How to balance a raw diet for certain breeds: Is there any difference?
- 3.2 Is there a difference between a raw diet for puppies and adult dogs?
- 3.3 Are supplements necessary?
- 3.4 Why good food in no longer enough?
Introduction
In the 30 years of working as a vet, I have learned that repetition is at the core of achieving great health. I sometimes go out and talk to dog lovers undercover on my walks not telling them I am a vet. It is fun because that way they’re more open to share their experiences with their dogs and veterinarians, and I can see more clearly what I need to write about.
You may have not thought about it, but most vets, myself included, don’t really know what is going on in the exam rooms. It is because we usually do not need to go and see a veterinarian 🤓. But sometimes I wish I was a fly on the wall, to hear what my colleagues say and why many of you tell me my approach to medicine is different.
There are two areas that concern me the most, based on my “undercover” discussions with dog lovers: Nutrition and Vaccination. Today, I will focus on nutrition and especially the calcium/phosphorus ratio in food in puppies and adult dogs.
What is the correct ratio of calcium and phosphorus for dogs?
It is actually surprising how hard it is to come across clearly stated Ca/P ratio recommendations supported by research. Based on the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) considers the following levels of Calcium and Phosphorus as acceptable:
Puppies after weaning:
A wide range of 2-18 g of Calcium per 1000 calories (with the recommended amount of 3 g) and 2.5 g of Phosphorus per 1000 calories.
Adult Dogs:
Minimum of 0.5 g of Calcium per 1000 calories (with the recommended amount of 1g) and 0.75 gm of Phosphorus per 1000 calories.
To make the numbers clearer I have created the following table:
The Merck Veterinary Manual also states that the amounts of nutrients may need to be modified up or down by 30%, which makes these figures vague. To make this even more confusing for well-intended dog lovers and pet food manufacturers, not every food digests the same way. For example, calories in meat are much more available than calories in fillers, such as cellulose, which is very common.
Even if dog food contains the recommended amounts and ratios of Calcium and Phosphorus, dry food is much more calorie-dense, which results in overfeeding, fast growth and bone and joint growth issues.
Naturally, all of this makes the decision about what kibble to choose very difficult for well-meaning and caring dog lovers because there are too many variables and a dog's individual nutrient requirements also need to be considered.
I have seen many people experience a great deal of anxiety and worry, and I understand why. We veterinarians, along with pet food companies, have made dog nutrition extremely complicated, and the recommendations practically impossible to apply in real life.
Who knows if this is or is not intentional, but the result is everlasting confusion, endless debates and most of all unnecessary suffering of puppies and adult dogs.
For many decades, the education of veterinarians in the field of nutrition has been done under the influence of processed pet food manufacturers who are in the business of selling kibble. For example, the Global Nutrition Committee that has been active at events such as WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) conferences educates veterinarians in the field of small animal nutrition. The problem is that this committee is sponsored by 3 large processed pet food manufacturers, which makes it less credible in providing unbiased information. https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/GNC-Report-2019.pdf
Can you ensure the correct ratio of calcium to phosphorus in your dog's food?
For most dog lovers, it would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to verify that their dog’s kibble contains the right ratio of Calcium and Phosphorus in connection with ME (metabolizable energy), based on the calorie availability (for example, meat vs. cellulose).
As I mentioned above, cellulose (wood chips), or other forms of fibre and indigestible diet components, are used to bulk up the volume of food, but they are not a bioavailable energy source. You can also see practical evidence of this by comparing the bowel movement size from dogs on kibble vs. that of those on raw food. Kibble fed dogs produce a much larger volume of feces. The difference is striking!
This means that while the Ca/P ratio per 1000 calories of food may look good on paper and in the lab, it can be completely off when it comes to bioavailable calcium and phosphorus.
What are the implications of all this?
Having the opportunity to see thousands of dogs in practice, most of the growth-related issues I have seen, including hip dysplasia, cartilage growth disorders, fragmentation (osteochondritis dissecans), and growing pains (panosteitis) affect dogs on kibble.
Dogs on such foods appear to grow faster, lankier, and weaker, similarly to over-fertilized plants that grow fast and weak. Kibble is much more energy dense. Dogs can consume more calories before they feel satiated, and the bioavailability of nutrients fluctuates heavily based on the ingredients. In other words, kibble fed dogs are “over-fertilized” too.
Nature has the answer!
Since I began feeding and recommending raw food in the late 90’s, I rarely see dogs being fed a raw or cooked whole-food diet affected by hip dysplasia, panosteitis or cartilage, joint, and abnormal growth disorders.
Dogs fed raw or cooked diets that include meat, raw bones, and vegetables along with natural vitamins and other supplements for dogs, grow slower and are stronger. This allows the body to build good structure as well as healthy bones and joints, even in dog breeds that are supposedly predisposed towards these problems.
Such an approach works consistently well, and I can say – with confidence – that a whole-food raw or cooked diet, including the essential supplements, yields far superior results and dramatically reduces growth abnormalities and bone and joint disease. I have seen this in my patients, and also in my own dogs.
Instead of focusing on trying to follow the hard to apply Calcium/Phosphorus recommendations, or be misled by organizations sponsored by processed pet food companies, I recommend feeding our dogs a diet that is as close to the natural diet of canines as possible. Such a diet consists of a variety of meat, bones, and vegetables, and includes supplements.
How to balance a raw diet
How to balance a raw diet for certain breeds: Is there any difference?
The simple answer is that there is no difference between food for small or large dogs. When you feed a raw diet, there is no difference between the 36 different species of the canidae family. There is a big difference in the size of wolves, coyotes, dogs, foxes, jackals, dingos, raccoon dogs, and fennecs, however, they have the same dentition, digestive tract, and diet.
"By William Harris - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=58316301
Is there a difference between a raw diet for puppies and adult dogs?
In nature, as soon as puppies start accepting solid food, they start eating the same type of food as adults, and this continues all the way into old age. There is not a single example of a mammal eating different food during different stages of their life, with the exception of the early nursing stage.
The life stage and breed based processed food idea is an invention of pet companies who need to create the impression that it is too difficult to feed a balanced home-based raw or cooked diet, which is not true.
Humans are capable of feeding children a wholesome diet, and it’s no different for dogs.
Most problems arise only if
- Dogs get kibble which is unnaturally calorie-dense and is made of ingredients dogs would not eat on their own, such as grain, corn, rice, and cellulose, to name a few.
- Their food lacks four essential nutrients: Minerals, Vitamins, Probiotics and Omega-3 fatty acids (EFA’s).
Are dog food supplements necessary?
Feeding your dog a raw or cooked diet is one of the best ways to provide them with wholesome, natural nutrition.
However, due to modern farming practices, soil depletion, and the long distances food travels before it reaches us, even the best diets can lack essential nutrients.
These changes in how food is grown and produced have reduced the nutrient density of many ingredients.
Over the years, I’ve seen how these gaps can affect dogs’ health, which is why I recommend supplementing their diets.
This approach is what I use for my patients, my dog Pax, my family, and myself to ensure optimal health and longevity through balanced nutrition and supplementation.
There is nothing more valuable than health
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Modern diets often lack sufficient omega-3 fatty acids, primarily because most meats are not sourced from grass-fed animals, which naturally contain higher omega-3 levels. Industrialized agriculture has shifted animal feed to grains, reducing the nutrient density of meat. Omega-3s are crucial for:
- Brain health and cognitive function: Particularly in puppies during development.
- Joint support: Reducing inflammation and promoting mobility.
- Skin and coat health: Preventing dryness and improving shine.
- Immune system function: Enhancing overall immunity.
A high-quality omega-3 supplement ensures your dog receives these essential fatty acids in adequate amounts.
Whole-Food Multivitamins
Soil depletion caused by industrial farming practices has reduced the natural vitamin content in fruits and vegetables. Additionally, long-distance food transport further diminishes nutrient levels. A whole-food multivitamin provides:
- A full spectrum of bioavailable vitamins and minerals.
- Support for cellular health and longevity.
- Compensation for the lack of variety in most diets.
This type of supplement ensures your dog gets balanced nutrition despite the challenges posed by modern agriculture.
Minerals and Calcium
The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides disrupts soil fertility, depleting it of critical minerals like calcium, magnesium, manganese, and selenium. These minerals are vital for:
- Bone health: Maintaining a proper calcium-phosphorus ratio.
- Detoxification: Helping eliminate heavy metals from the body.
- Energy production: Supporting stamina and vitality.
- Coat quality: Contributing to a shinier coat.
Supplementing with a mineral-rich product addresses these deficiencies, especially in raw diets that may lack whole bones or diverse organ meats.
Probiotics
Gut health is essential for nutrient absorption and immune function, but modern lifestyles and sterile environments can disrupt the natural microbiome dogs evolved with. Probiotics are beneficial for:
- Supporting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
- Strengthening the immune system, as 80% of immune cells reside in the gut.
- Restoring balance to the gut microbiome disrupted by processed foods or antibiotics.
A canine-specific probiotic helps rebuild this balance, ensuring optimal digestive health.
If you’re curious about how these supplements can make a difference in your dog’s life, I invite you to explore more detailed information to make the best choices for your canine friend or yourself.
Take a look—you might just discover the missing piece to unlocking your dog’s full health potential!
How to prepare healthy natural dog food
For more info on how to prepare healthy natural dog food recipes here are two important links:
- A quick 15-minute course about how to feed a Raw and Cooked Diet for Dogs
- The Healthy Dog Food Recipe Maker – a free tool to help you create healthy and balanced recipes, including quantity to feed, and what ingredients are good and safe for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
My dog cannot eat bones; what can I do?
If your dog cannot eat bones, you can provide alternative sources of calcium and essential minerals by incorporating GreenMin into their food daily. This mineral-rich, plant-based superfood is specifically formulated to balance your dog's mineral intake so no essential building blocks are missing.
Should I feed raw bones if I'm giving GreenMin?
While GreenMin provides a wide range of essential minerals needed for optimal health, raw bones are still important for your dog's overall well-being. They support dental health, provide mental stimulation, and contribute to overall wellness.
Dental tartar and gingivitis are leading causes of heart and kidney disease, and chewing raw bones helps keep your dog's teeth clean naturally. Learn how to choose the right raw bones here.
How can I transition from processed to natural food for my dog?
For most dogs, you can switch directly from one meal to the next without issues. There's typically no need for a gradual introduction, whether for puppies or adult dogs, unless your dog has a diagnosed condition affecting the digestive tract and immune system.
For a slower transition, you can gradually mix cooked or raw food into your dog's meals, increasing the amount over time until the switch is complete.
How many different proteins should I feed my dog?
Offering a variety of proteins helps mimic a wild canine's natural diet and provides a broader range of nutrients. Aim for at least three to four different types of meat and rotate protein sources regularly—the more variety, the better.
Be cautious when feeding fish, as some species, like tuna, may contain high levels of mercury. It's also best to avoid farmed fish, such as tilapia and farmed salmon, due to potential contaminants.
What if I can't feed my dog a raw or cooked diet?
Remember - any fresh food is better than none! If a fully raw or cooked diet isn't an option, try adding healthy table scraps like raw or cooked vegetables, eggs, and meat. Don't be afraid of lightly salted food—contrary to pet food industry myths, dogs do need some salt, in moderation.
No matter what you feed—raw, cooked, or processed—ensuring your dog gets all essential nutrients is key. This is where supplements like the Fab4 Essential Supplements can help fill any nutritional gaps and support your dog's overall health and well-being.
Do the best you can to incorporate fresh, whole foods whenever possible—every little bit makes a difference!
I feed a pre-made raw with salmon, turkey and deer for variety. I add SoulFood and GutSense supplements and give a duck neck once or twice weekly. Is there anything else I should do or change to improve the diet?
You're off to a great start! Here are a few ways to enhance your dog's diet even further:
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Limit fish intake – Some fish, like salmon, may contain mercury. I recommend feeding fish no more than once a week.
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Increase variety – Try expanding your protein sources using the Recipe Maker Tool to mimic a natural, balanced diet better.
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Omega-3 Supplementation – If you reduce fish, add in FeelGood Omega. Unlike whole fish, this omega-3 source is tested mercury-free and is rich in both DHA and EPA. These essential fatty acids are crucial for your dog's skin health, heart function, organ health, regeneration, and brain and nerve function.
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Mineral Balance – Include GreenMin daily to ensure your dog isn't missing any essential minerals or amino acids.
How do you feel about kefir versus canine-specific probiotics like GutSense?
While kefir is often touted as a probiotic-rich option, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
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Pasteurization: Many store-bought kefir products are pasteurized to extend shelf life. Unfortunately, this process can diminish the beneficial bacteria content.
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Dairy Sensitivities: Dairy products, including kefir, may not be suitable for mature dogs. Dairy can act as an immune stimulant, potentially triggering allergies or sensitivities in some pets.
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Contaminants: Milk used in kefir production may be contaminated with growth hormones or other undesirable substances, which could pose additional risks to your dog's health.
- Limited Probiotic Spectrum: Kefir typically contains a narrow range of probiotic strains that are not specifically tailored to the unique needs of a dog's digestive system.
Why Choose GutSense?
GutSense is a canine-specific, non-dairy probiotic and digestive support supplement designed exclusively for dogs and their unique digestive requirements. Unlike kefir, GutSense provides:
- A carefully selected spectrum of probiotics tailored to dogs.
- Prebiotics to nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
- Digestive-supporting herbs that promote optimal gut health and overall well-being.
As the most popular product in our canine supplement line, GutSense offers a safe, effective, and targeted solution for supporting your dog's digestive health.
I have tried feeding my dogs raw, and they do not like it. What can I do?
Transitioning to a raw diet can take time, and some dogs may need a gradual adjustment. Here are a few tips to help:
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Start with Cooked Meals: Begin by lightly cooking your dog's meals, as cooked food is often more appealing to picky eaters. Over time, gradually reduce the cooking and increase the proportion of raw meat until your dog becomes accustomed to the taste and texture of raw food.
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Evaluate Portion Sizes: Overfeeding is a common cause of pickiness. Ensure you're offering the right portion size for your dog's weight, age, and activity level.
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Consider Food Additives: If your dog has been eating commercial pet food, they may be accustomed to artificial flavor enhancers or additives that make processed food more enticing. Transitioning away from these can take patience.
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Add Nutritional Support: If you're cooking your dog's meals, be sure to add the Fab4 Essentials (or any recommended supplements) just before serving to preserve their valuable nutrients and ensure your dog gets a balanced diet.
With consistency and gradual changes, most dogs can adapt to a raw or home-prepared diet over time!
If I feed my dog a wide variety of foods, can I skip supplements?
While offering a variety of fresh, whole foods is an excellent foundation for your dog's diet, it's typically not enough to meet all of their nutritional needs in today's world. Modern agricultural practices have led to depleted soils and reduced nutrient levels in many foods, making it challenging to provide a fully balanced diet through food alone.
Over more than three decades of practice and extensive research, evidence consistently shows that supplementing with essential nutrients—such as minerals, amino acids, vitamins, omega oils, and probiotics—can significantly enhance your dog's overall health and well-being. These supplements help fill nutritional gaps that even the best diets may leave behind, supporting optimal vitality and longevity.
How much food does my adult dog need daily?
A good starting point is 100g per 10 lbs of body weight per day. However, every dog is different and many active dogs may need double this amount.
The best way to determine the right amount to feed is to assess your dog's body condition. Use the chart below as a guide.
If your dog is underweight, increase their food intake by 25% and reassess in 2-3 weeks. If your dog is overweight, reduce their food by 25% and gradually adjust until they reach a healthy weight.
Dietary needs vary based on activity level, age and even the season, so it is important to monitor and adjust as needed. Your dog's body condition is the best indicator.
