When it comes to feeding your dog, there’s a big difference between surviving and thriving. While most commercial kibble keeps your dog alive, it often lacks the primal nutrients their bodies truly crave—those essential vitamins, minerals, and bioavailable nutrients that mirror what canines evolved to eat.
Let’s dig into what primal nutrients are, why they matter, and how you can help your pup thrive—not just get by.
🐺 What Are Primal Nutrients?
Primal nutrients refer to the core, naturally occurring nutrients that dogs would have consumed in the wild—from whole prey, raw meat, bones, and organ meats. Unlike synthetic additives in many pet foods, these nutrients are highly bioavailable, meaning your dog’s body can actually absorb and use them.
These include:
High-quality animal protein (muscle meat)
Essential fatty acids (Omega-3s and 6s)
Organ meats (liver, kidney, spleen)
Bone minerals (calcium, phosphorus)
Enzymes and probiotics
Natural vitamins and trace minerals (zinc, magnesium, selenium)
💪 Why They Matter
Dogs may be domesticated, but their nutritional needs haven’t changed much from their wolf ancestors. Here’s how primal nutrients support your pup’s well-being:
1. Stronger Joints & Bones
Calcium, phosphorus, and collagen from raw bones and connective tissue help build a durable skeletal system.
2. Improved Skin & Coat Health
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids reduce inflammation and support a shiny coat and healthy skin.
3. Better Digestion
Whole, raw foods and probiotics support a balanced gut microbiome and reduce digestive issues.
4. Boosted Immunity
Real organ meats and natural vitamins strengthen immune function more effectively than synthetic ones.
5. Enhanced Energy & Vitality
When your dog gets real fuel, they move, play, and recover better—simple as that.
🍖 How to Include Primal Nutrients in Your Dog’s Diet
You don’t have to go full-wolf and feed your dog raw squirrels. There are easy, safe ways to bring primal nutrition into a modern dog bowl:
🥩 1. Raw or Freeze-Dried Raw Diets
Brands like Primal Pet Foods and Stella & Chewy’s offer raw and freeze-dried meal options packed with real meat, organs, and bone.
🍗 2. Raw Toppers & Mix-ins
Add primal power to any kibble with raw toppers like:
🐟 3. Omega-3 Supplements
If your dog isn’t eating fatty fish, a high-quality fish oil or krill oil can help:
🧠 4. Organ Meat Supplements
Not comfortable feeding raw liver? Try:
🚫 What to Watch Out For
Avoid “meat by-products” or vague ingredients.
Don’t rely solely on synthetic vitamin blends.
Be cautious introducing raw foods—transition gradually and choose reputable sources.
🐶 Final Thoughts: Go Primal, Not Processed
Your dog’s body was built for nature—not artificial fillers, dyes, and overly processed kibble. By adding primal nutrients to their diet, you’re honouring their biology and giving them what they truly need to live a longer, stronger, and happier life.
Whether it’s a spoonful of raw food, a sprinkle of freeze-dried organs, or a splash of omega-rich oil, every small step gets them closer to optimal health.