Researchers at the University of Helsinki conducted an experiment with 46 Staffordshire Bull Terriers, comparing the effects of two types of feeding — carbohydrate-rich dry food and fat-rich raw diets. The results showed significant differences in the animals' metabolism.
Dogs that received a raw diet high in fats and proteins showed decreased levels of glucose and cholesterol in the blood, as well as an increase in ketone concentrations — molecules that provide energy to the body by using fats instead of sugars. This indicates a metabolic shift into a state of ketosis, which is beneficial for health.
In contrast, animals fed a dry diet dominated by carbohydrates exhibited elevated levels of sugars and lipids in the blood — a potential sign of metabolic syndrome associated with obesity and insulin resistance.
Researchers emphasize that the natural diet of dogs' ancestors — wolves — was rich in proteins and fats, whereas modern commercial feeds contain excessive amounts of carbohydrates that do not align with the biology of the animals.
Scientists note that the findings are important not only for the health of pet animals but also for understanding metabolic processes in humans, as the metabolism of dogs and humans shares many similarities. These results may contribute to the development of approaches for the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases.
