Homemade Food to Add 3 Years of Life?

Today we’re going to look into the significant benefits of serving your dog a homemade diet, by investigating the results of a study that finished about 20 years ago

Author

Thom Hart
December 11, 2023

Daily Longevity Tip: Homemade Food to Add 3 Years of Life?

Tip Summary: A study that finished in 2003 concluded that feeding dogs homemade food can increase lifespan by nearly 3 years.

Hey Dog Longevity friends! Today we’re going to look into the significant benefits of serving your dog a homemade diet, by investigating the results of a study that finished about 20 years ago. The study began in 1998 and continued for five years, involving 522 dogs. It aimed to examine factors influencing dogs' life expectancy, including diet. Let’s look into what they found, review their findings, and discuss the takeaways:

Key Findings:

  1. Longer Life with Homemade Food: Dogs fed homemade food lived an average of 13.1 years, while those on canned industrial food had an average lifespan of 10.4 years. Mixed diets (homemade plus canned food) led to an average lifespan of 11.4 years.

  2. Significant Impact of Diet: The nearly 3-year difference in lifespan between homemade and canned food diets underscores the importance of diet quality in extending dogs' lives.

Study Analysis:

  • The study highlights the quality of ingredients and the absence of harsh processing methods in homemade food as key factors for longevity.

  • It emphasizes the role of the dog owner in choosing high-quality, natural ingredients for their pets.

Takeaways for Dog Parents:

  1. Quality Matters: The ingredients and preparation of your dog's food significantly impact their health and lifespan.

  2. Homemade Advantage: A homemade diet can offer better protection, well-being, and a longer life expectancy for your dog.

  3. Informed Choices: As a responsible pet owner, consider the nutritional value and quality of the food you provide to your dog.

Feeding your dog a homemade diet can be a meaningful step towards ensuring their health and longevity. Consult with a veterinarian to create a balanced, nutritious homemade diet plan for your furry friend.