Back to the Wild: Why the Ancestral Diet Is the Best for Your Dog

Your dog may sleep in your bed, wear a collar, and enjoy belly rubs—but under all that domestication is the DNA of a wild hunter. Modern commercial dog food, with its synthetic additives and heavy starch content, is a far cry from the meat-based diet dogs are built to thrive on.

The ancestral diet is a return to basics—raw meat, bones, organs, and minimal plant matter. It’s not a fad. It’s a biologically appropriate way to nourish your dog the way nature intended.

What Is the Ancestral Diet for Dogs?

The ancestral diet, also called a species-appropriate diet, mimics what wild canines like wolves and early dogs ate: fresh, raw food. It prioritizes nutrition from high-quality animal proteins, natural fats, and raw meaty bones with essential minerals.

Core Components:

• Muscle meats: Beef, chicken, lamb, turkey, duck
• Organ meats: Liver, kidneys, heart, spleen – rich in micronutrients
• Edible bones: For calcium and natural dental hygiene
• Minimal plant matter: Greens, herbs, berries for fiber and antioxidants

This diet delivers nutrients in their most bioavailable form—meaning your dog can absorb and use them effectively.

Why Modern Dog Food Falls Short

The majority of commercial kibble is made with low-grade meat by-products, grains, fillers, and synthetic additives. These ingredients are processed at high temperatures, destroying essential nutrients. The result? A shelf-stable product that’s more about convenience than canine health.

Common Problems Linked to Commercial Food:

• Food sensitivities and allergies
• Poor coat and skin condition
• Lethargy or behavioral changes
• Chronic digestive issues

Kibble may be marketed as “complete and balanced,” but many dogs on commercial diets still experience health issues.

Health Benefits of the Ancestral Diet

1. Improved Digestion

Dogs digest raw protein and fats better than starchy grains. The ancestral diet results in:

• Smaller, firmer stools
• Reduced gas and bloating
• Fewer digestive upsets

2. Enhanced Vitality

With more usable nutrients, your dog may experience:

• Increased energy
• Sharper alertness
• Better endurance during walks or play

3. Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin

High-quality proteins and omega fats support:

• A glossy, soft coat
• Reduced itching and flaking
• Healing of skin irritations

4. Stronger Immune System

Nutrient-rich raw food strengthens the body’s natural defenses:

• Fewer infections
• Improved resilience against disease
• Faster recovery times

5. Dental Health

Chewing raw meaty bones naturally scrapes off plaque and supports gum health, reducing the need for dental cleanings or extractions.

The Science Behind the Diet

Studies show that dogs fed raw or minimally processed diets have better gut microbiomes, reduced inflammation, and lower body fat compared to those fed conventional kibble.

The ancestral diet is supported by vets, holistic pet nutritionists, and thousands of raw-feeding pet parents who’ve witnessed dramatic transformations in their dogs.

Transitioning to an Ancestral Diet

It’s important to transition slowly to avoid digestive upset.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start with one raw meal per day alongside their usual food
2. Introduce raw meaty bones once a week
3. Gradually replace kibble over 7-10 days
4. Monitor stool, energy, and coat changes
5. Consult with a raw-friendly vet or canine nutritionist

Your dog is more than a pet—they’re family. Choosing an ancestral diet is a decision rooted in love and responsibility. It’s a proactive step toward ensuring your dog lives longer, healthier, and happier.

Ditch the kibble. Go back to nature. Go back to the wild.