Why Make the Switch: A Study on Raw Feeding - AniForte UK

Why Make the Switch: A Study on Raw Feeding

How does raw feeding actually affect your dog's health? A groundbreaking study called "Trust Your Gut" by Treat Therapeutics provides exciting answers.

The gut microbiome

A central topic of the study is the intestinal microbiome of dogs. This complex network of microorganisms in the digestive tract not only influences digestion, but also the immune system and general health. The "Trust Your Gut" study has shown that switching from dry food to BARF causes significant changes in the gut microbiome.

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The gut microbiome

More diversity and healthy bacteria

One of the most remarkable findings of the study is the increased bacterial diversity in the gut of dogs that have been switched to raw feeding. Greater diversity usually means a more robust and healthier microbiome. Particularly pleasing is the increase in beneficial bacterial strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, while harmful bacteria decreased.

The gut microbiome

Your dog's gut microbiome consists of a colourful mixture of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms. The little helpers called lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are crucial for digestion, the production of vitamins, protection against pathogens and the regulation of the immune system. A balanced gut microbiome is therefore the key to a healthy dog. If this balance is disturbed, which is known as dysbiosis, problems such as inflammation, allergies and digestive disorders can result.

The digestion

In addition to the positive change in the gut microbiome, the study also found improvements in the digestive health of the dogs. Dogs fed raw had firmer and more regular stools, indicating more efficient digestion and better nutrient absorption. In addition, less flatulence, diarrhoea and other digestive problems were observed.

the immune system

Strengthening the immune system through natural nutrition

Another highlight of the study is the anti-inflammatory effect of raw feeding. The researchers found a reduction in inflammatory markers in the dogs' blood, which indicates a stronger immune defence. This is particularly important as chronic inflammation can lead to various health problems in the long term.

Dry food vs. BARF

What are the differences?

Dry food and raw feeding differ considerably in their composition. Conventional dry food from the shops often contains a lot of gluten, preservatives and synthetic additives. A bowl of raw food, on the other hand, consists of raw meat, bones, offal, vegetables and fruit - in other words, food that comes closer to the dog's natural diet.

Testimonials

Frankie & Jane

"He has thrived on it. His coat is more glossy, poops are firmer and reduced in quantity. Also although he still has the exuberance of a spaniel, he seems more focused especially when I am doing agility and Hoopers with him. I will definitely be continuing with a raw food diet."

Ernie & Hannah

“Feeling like we have a bit of the old Ernie back, his stomach is perfect, drinking far less, his winter coat has started to moult now and he has a lovely shiny soft coat coming through.”

Samsun & Milly

„ [...] Since starting, he has eaten every single meal…& his poos, 1 or 2 per day, are hard, odourless and generally smaller. His coat is amazing, his breath never smells & his teeth look cleaner."

How to feed raw

Tipp #1

Start the change gradually, meal by meal. Start with a small amount of raw muscle meat. Increase the proportion of BARF components gradually and adapted to your dog's individual needs

The longer a dog has been fed dry food and the older it is, the more strenuous the changeover is for the body. The body should therefore be given the opportunity to get used to the new food at its own pace. It is also advisable to proceed step by step and not to serve the dog a complete BARF meal from one day to the next. Feeding bones in particular is a special matter to which the dog should be introduced slowly.

Fazit:

If you are thinking about switching your dog to a raw diet, you should listen to your gut feeling and make the switch. We can now say that raw feeding will positively change your dog's gut microbiome and lead to a healthier gut that can absorb more nutrients. This happy population of gut microbes will ensure that your dog has a healthier gut, brain and joints, even in older dogs that are more difficult to feed.

ANIFORTE®

The species-appropriate mixture of purely natural ingredients completes the balanced raw diet with vitamins and minerals. Natural nutrients support the microbiome and microflora in your dog's gut thanks to their high bioavailability, as natural foods also contain secondary plant substances and enzymes in addition to vitamins and minerals, which support the absorption and utilisation of nutrients.

ANIFORTE®

An excellent source of calcium, important for your dog's bone and dental health. Feeding ground bones is particularly well tolerated and can be particularly helpful when switching from dry food to barf if your dog is not yet used to eating raw meaty bones. Ground bones also promote healthy digestion.

ANIFORTE®

The only mixture of high-quality oils that provides your dog with valuable essential omega-3, -6 and -9 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids are effective supporters and, among other things, necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). They also generally increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients, such as carotenoids (precursors of vitamin A) and other fat-soluble phytonutrients. They serve as an important source of energy for intestinal cells and stimulate the production of bile in the liver. The high proportion of essential omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce inflammation.

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