When it comes to your dog’s health and wellbeing, what you feed them can have a significant impact not only on their physical health but also on their behaviour. Anxiety, for instance, is a common issue many dogs face, manifesting through nervousness, excessive barking, aggression, or even destructive behaviour. One powerful tool for addressing such behavioural challenges is feeding your dog a raw food diet. As raw food specialists at Doghouse Dog Café, we’ve seen firsthand the remarkable benefits a well-balanced raw diet can have on a dog’s mental and physical health. But how exactly does feeding raw help with anxiety and dog behaviour in general?

Just like humans, dogs' moods and behaviours are heavily influenced by what they eat. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can cause mood swings, stress, and even anxiety. On the other hand, feeding your dog nutrient-dense, whole foods can support not just their physical well-being but also their emotional balance.

Here’s how feeding your dog a raw diet can help improve anxiety and overall behaviour:

1. Nutrient-Rich for Brain Health
Raw food diets provide a more natural, species-appropriate form of nutrition that includes muscle meat, organs, and bones, which are packed with essential nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants. These nutrients support brain function and reduce inflammation, which can lead to a calmer, more focused, and balanced dog.

For dogs with anxiety, Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish like salmon or sardines, can help regulate mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Omega-3s have also been linked to improved cognitive function, which is crucial for training and behaviour management.

2. Improved Digestion for a Happier Dog
Many dogs suffer from digestive issues on commercial diets, which can cause discomfort, stress, and irritability. A raw diet, however, is easier for dogs to digest because it closely mimics what their ancestors would have eaten. Better digestion means less discomfort and stress, leading to a calmer, more comfortable dog. Dogs who are not battling digestive distress are generally more receptive to training and less prone to aggressive or anxious behaviours.

3. Balanced Blood Sugar Levels
Commercial dog foods, especially those with high carbohydrate content, can cause spikes and drops in a dog's blood sugar levels. These fluctuations can make a dog hyperactive, anxious, or lethargic at different times of the day. A raw diet, being low in processed carbohydrates and high in protein, helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day, resulting in a dog with more consistent energy and a steadier, more manageable temperament.

4. Reduction in Food Sensitivities
Many dogs suffer from food intolerances or allergies that can cause inflammation, discomfort, and even behavioural problems. Raw diets are often free from common allergens such as grains, artificial preservatives, and fillers that are present in many commercial dog foods. By switching to a raw diet, you can help reduce the risk of food sensitivities, which can lead to less irritation and frustration in your dog. A calm dog is a more obedient and well-behaved dog.

5. Increased Mental Stimulation
Feeding raw food often involves more interactive mealtime experiences, such as chewing on bones or working through tougher cuts of meat. This added mental stimulation can help reduce boredom and anxiety, especially in dogs that tend to display destructive behaviours due to a lack of stimulation. Chewing raw bones can also have a calming effect, helping dogs release pent-up energy and stress.

How Raw Food Can Help All Dog Behaviours

The benefits of a raw diet extend beyond anxiety reduction. Here’s how raw feeding can positively influence your dog’s overall behaviour:

Increased Focus and Trainability: A dog that feels physically and mentally balanced is more likely to be receptive to training. The mental clarity provided by a nutrient-rich diet helps dogs concentrate better during training sessions, making them quicker learners.

Reduced Hyperactivity: Stabilised blood sugar levels mean your dog is less likely to have bursts of hyperactive energy, making them easier to manage in everyday situations.

Decreased Aggression: Some studies suggest that food sensitivities and poor digestion can contribute to aggressive behaviours in dogs. By feeding raw, you can reduce inflammation and irritation that may be contributing to aggressive outbursts.

Improved Social Behaviour: When a dog is physically well-nourished and comfortable, they are more likely to be calm and well-behaved around other dogs and people. This is especially important for dogs that struggle with social anxiety or fear-based aggression.

Feeding your dog a raw diet is not just about physical health—it’s about supporting their emotional and mental wellbeing too. By providing them with a species-appropriate, nutrient-rich diet, you can address anxiety, improve overall behaviour, and enhance their quality of life. Whether your dog struggles with anxiety, hyperactivity, or aggression, the holistic benefits of raw feeding can make a world of difference.

At Doghouse Dog Café, we specialise in raw food blends that are formulated to meet your dog’s specific nutritional needs. If you’re considering switching your dog to a raw diet, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your furry friend thrives both inside and out.