As the Australian summer approaches, we humans aren't the only ones who need to adjust our diets. Your furry friend also requires proper nutrition to thrive in the heat. A raw food diet is an excellent way to support your dog’s overall health, especially during the hotter months. In this blog, we'll explore how raw feeding can help keep your dog healthy, energetic, and hydrated during summer.
Why Raw Food is Perfect for Summer
Summer in Australia brings unique challenges for dog owners—heat, humidity, and the potential for dehydration. Raw food provides fresh, nutrient-rich meals that can help your dog stay cool and hydrated. Here's why switching to or maintaining a raw food diet during summer can boost your dog's health.
- Nutrient Density: Raw food is packed with natural nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Unlike processed kibble, raw food doesn’t lose its nutritional value during processing, ensuring your dog gets the maximum benefit from each meal.
- Hydration: Fresh raw meat contains moisture, which is especially important in summer. While water should always be available, raw food adds an extra layer of hydration to your dog’s diet, reducing the risk of dehydration.
- Improved Digestion: Summer can bring about digestive issues in dogs, particularly if they are prone to heat stress. Raw food promotes better digestion, thanks to its natural enzymes, helping your dog avoid bloating, gas, and discomfort.
Boosting Your Dog's Health in Summer
Dogs can be more susceptible to health problems in the summer due to heat exposure, and a raw diet can be a proactive way to manage these risks.
- Lean Muscle Support: Raw food is rich in high-quality protein that helps maintain lean muscle mass, which is crucial for keeping your dog agile and active during the summer. For added joint support, CDK9 Raw’s Complete Mobility Support mix is an excellent choice. This blend contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin to help older dogs or active pups maintain mobility during increased summer activity.
- Skin and Coat Health: Summer can be tough on a dog’s skin and coat, leading to dryness, shedding, or irritation. A diet rich in essential fatty acids, found in raw food, can improve the shine and health of your dog’s coat, keeping them comfortable during the hotter months. CDK9 Raw’s Essentials Duck mix, rich in Omega-3s from fresh duck, is a perfect light protein for summer and helps to keep skin hydrated and coats glossy.
- Joint Health: Increased activity during summer months can put a strain on your dog’s joints, especially in older dogs. Raw food diets, like CDK9 Raw’s Complete Mobility Support, include cartilage and bone, natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health and mobility.
Customising a Raw Food Diet for Summer
Every dog is different, and their summer diet should reflect their individual needs. Here's how to customise a raw food diet to meet your dog’s requirements.
- Focus on Hydration: Include high-moisture foods such as raw chicken or turkey, which have a higher water content. You can also supplement with fresh, safe vegetables like cucumbers or zucchinis, which provide additional moisture. CDK9 Raw’s Fresh Sardines, Salmon & Mackerel mix is an ideal addition to your dog’s summer diet, offering hydration along with Omega-3s to support skin health.
- Light Protein Sources: In the heat of summer, dogs may prefer lighter proteins such as chicken, turkey, or fish. These are easier to digest than heavier meats like beef or lamb, making them ideal for warmer months when digestion can slow down. CDK9 Raw’s Essentials Duck provides a lighter yet nutritious option, perfect for the summer heat.
- Add Cooling Foods: Some foods can naturally cool your dog down. Ingredients like leafy greens, cucumbers, and blueberries are not only safe for dogs but are also great for keeping them cool.
- Control Portions: Dogs are less active during hot weather, so they might require fewer calories than usual. Keep an eye on portion sizes to avoid weight gain, but ensure they're still getting all the essential nutrients.
Summer Dog Nutrition: Essential Nutrients for the Heat
A balanced raw food diet can provide essential nutrients that specifically benefit dogs in the summer heat. Here are some key nutrients to look for when prepping your dog’s raw diet:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like sardines, salmon, and mackerel, Omega-3s are essential for reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy coat. These fatty acids help alleviate skin irritation caused by heat and protect your dog’s coat from sun damage. CDK9 Raw’s Fresh Sardines, Salmon & Mackerel mix is rich in Omega-3s and is a great choice for keeping your dog’s coat shiny and skin healthy during summer.
- Calcium and Phosphorus: Bone health is critical, especially if your dog is more active during summer. Raw diets typically include bones, which provide calcium and phosphorus—key nutrients for strong bones and teeth. CDK9 Raw’s Complete Mobility Support mix includes raw meaty bones that naturally provide these essential minerals, keeping your dog’s skeletal health in top shape.
- B Vitamins: B vitamins, found in organ meats like liver, help boost energy levels and maintain overall health. This is particularly important for dogs that expend more energy during summer activities, such as swimming, running, or playing outdoors.
Keeping Your Dog Safe and Healthy in the Summer Heat
While a raw diet can significantly improve your dog’s health, there are other steps you can take to ensure they remain healthy and happy throughout the Australian summer.
- Provide Fresh Water at All Times: While raw food adds hydration, it’s crucial to ensure your dog has constant access to fresh, clean water.
- Create Shaded Areas: If your dog spends time outdoors, make sure they have access to shaded areas to rest and cool down.
- Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Try to walk or exercise your dog during cooler parts of the day—early mornings or late evenings.
- Monitor for Signs of Heat Stress: If you notice signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting or drooling, take immediate action to cool your dog down.
Transitioning to a Raw Food Diet Before Summer
If your dog is new to raw feeding, it’s essential to make the transition before summer fully sets in. Sudden diet changes can lead to digestive upset, and you want to ensure your dog’s system is fully accustomed to their new raw diet before the peak heat.
- Start Slow: Gradually introduce raw food by mixing it with your dog’s current food over 7–10 days.
- Monitor Your Dog’s Response: Keep an eye on your dog’s digestion, energy levels, and coat condition during the transition.
- Consult Your Vet: If your dog has any underlying conditions, consult your vet before switching to a raw diet.
Start Preparing for a Healthy Summer Today!
As the Australian summer approaches, now is the perfect time to switch to or enhance your dog’s diet with raw food. CDK9 Raw provides tailored, nutrient-packed meals designed to keep your dog healthy, hydrated, and full of energy throughout the hottest months of the year.
Ready to boost your dog’s health this summer? Shop our Complete Mobility Support, Duck Essentials, or Fresh Sardines, Salmon & Mackerel today and give your dog the nutrition they deserve!
