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At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we stuff our meals with the best meat, which ensures taste, smell and a lot of proteins and vitamins for the dog.
Here you can read a bit about the different land animals we put in the meals. We care about the animals being treated properly and walking freely as much as possible.
We believe that this can be tasted in the meals, and is more reminiscent of the food that the dog would get from nature.
Should dogs have meat?
Evolutionarily, the dog has developed to optimally use protein sources from wild animals, which is why we at ESSENTIAL FOODS prioritize the high quality of animal ingredients.
The current domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) has evolved from the wolf (Canis lupus), which is exclusively a predator and only consumes non-animal food via the stomachs of its prey. Therefore, we make sure that our meals resemble the wolf's food as much as possible in the form of a high meat content and the vegetables/fruits that the prey animals would have consumed.
Many nowadays argue that dogs and other pets can easily get all their nutrients from protein sources other than animal, but studies have shown that especially active dogs have a higher risk of becoming anemic if they get their protein from non-animal sources, even if the protein intake is the same.
At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we believe that a high content of meat in the meals results in healthier dogs, while the meat content ensures that the dog's appetite is stimulated by smell and taste, so that all the good nutrients are absorbed inside and not left in the bowl.
Aberdeen Angus Beef
Aberdeen Angus beef. That pretty much says it all. The best beef in our range. Beef is high in protein and naturally rich in vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, zinc and iron.
Zinc is one of the most important minerals in the dog's diet, as it helps with the absorption of enzymes, hormones and protein. Zinc is also important for a healthy immune system, and conversely zinc deficiency can be directly fatal for the dog.
Studies have shown that natural sources of zinc, such as beef, provide a higher absorption of zinc than artificial dietary supplements.
Chicken
Raised responsibly on farms in the UK. All chickens are free run (cage free) scratch chickens. Chicken is a rich source of protein and essential amino acids. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins and iron.
Iron is an important mineral for all living organisms. Iron ensures that the dog's body can transport oxygen into the red blood cells in the body and thus generate energy — iron also maintains the functions of certain enzymes in the body.
Duck
Our ducks are from Gressingham in the UK, recommended by animal protection and Red Tractor certified. These ducks are bred with a focus on animal welfare. In addition to adding delicious taste and smell to meals, duck contains protein, iron and B vitamins — duck is also rich in omega-3 oil and selenium.
Lamb
Grass-fed lamb, born and bred in Great Britain. Lamb is packed with nutrients and an easily digestible source of protein. It is also a good source of vitamin B12 and iron, which help keep nerves and blood cells healthy.
Pheasant
Wild pheasant, primarily from the Scottish Highlands. A completely unique source of animal protein.
Pigeon
Wild pigeon, primarily from Great Britain, including the Scottish Highlands. A unique source of protein. Like the pheasant, these are birds that a wild dog in these parts of the world would hunt, fitting into the diet the dog was originally developed to eat.
Turkey
Carefully selected turkey, a source of essential nutrients such as riboflavin (B vitamin), potassium and selenium. Research has shown that selenium boosts the immune system in a wide range of animal species, including dogs.
Game
Rich in protein and naturally healthy. A good source of iron and B vitamins such as B6 and B12. With all these animal protein sources inside, the dog is not only covered for amino acids, but also a whole stack of other important vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
To learn more about what makes a truly natural diet for dogs and what to look for on the label, see our natural dog food Ireland guide.
Sources:
Looking for the best dog food for older dogs in Ireland? This guide covers what senior dogs need, what to avoid, and which grain-free formulas are best for dogs aged 7 and above.
