The history of dog food is deeply intertwined with the evolutionary journey of dogs from wild wolves to domesticated companions. Scientific studies have demonstrated the strong genetic link between modern dogs and their wolf ancestors (Canis lupus). This connection is evident in their behavioural, physiological, and dietary preferences, with wolves consuming diets high in protein and fat, and minimal carbohydrates. But how did the diet of dogs evolve into what we see today? Let’s take a journey through time to understand the history of dog food.
The Early Evolution of Dog Diets
The domestication of dogs began during the Upper Palaeolithic period, approximately 35,000 to 10,000 years ago, when humans were hunters and gatherers. During this time, dogs likely scavenged scraps from human hunts, sharing diets rich in protein and fat. This early diet closely resembled the nutrient profile of their wild wolf ancestors.
As humans transitioned into the Neolithic period, their diets shifted towards cultivated crops and stockbreeding. With dogs living alongside humans in settlements, their diets began to mirror that of their human companions, including cereals and other plant-based foods. This marked the first major shift away from the high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets of their ancestors.
The Agricultural Revolution and Dog Food Production
The Agricultural Revolution (1560–1880) brought about significant advancements in farming techniques, leading to increased production of cereal crops such as wheat, barley, and corn. This surplus of grains not only changed human diets but also laid the groundwork for the development of commercial dog food.
In 1860, James Spratt created the first commercial dog biscuits. These biscuits were made using wheat meal, vegetables, and meat by-products, ingredients that had become widely available due to agricultural advancements. This innovation marked the beginning of a new era in dog nutrition.
The Green Revolution and Modern Dog Food
Following the Second World War, the Green Revolution introduced further advancements in agricultural productivity, including fertilisers, improved crop varieties, and large-scale farm equipment. These developments enabled mass production of grains, which became a cornerstone of modern commercial dog food.
Carbohydrates, primarily derived from grains, became a dominant ingredient in dog food for two key reasons:
- Cost Efficiency: Carbohydrates are a cheaper energy source compared to protein and fat.
- Manufacturing Needs: The extrusion process, used to create dry kibble, requires starches to bind the ingredients together.
While carbohydrates play a functional role in production, they contradict the macronutrient preferences of dogs, which align more closely with their wolf ancestry. Research shows that dogs naturally self-select diets high in protein and fat, with minimal carbohydrate intake.
Modern Challenges and Future Focus
Today, most dogs are fed kibble, which often contains a significant proportion of carbohydrates. However, this composition does not reflect the dietary preferences of dogs or their nutritional needs. To make these carbohydrate-heavy foods more palatable, manufacturers spray fat and protein onto kibble, highlighting that these are the nutrients dogs truly crave.
Looking ahead, there is a growing need to re-evaluate the health implications of carbohydrate-heavy diets. By prioritising protein and fat as primary energy sources, we can better align modern dog food with the natural dietary instincts of our canine companions.
Conclusion
The evolution of dog food is a fascinating journey shaped by human history and agricultural advancements. From scavenging on protein-rich scraps during the Palaeolithic period to the carbohydrate-heavy kibble of today, dogs’ diets have undergone dramatic changes. However, their nutritional preferences remain rooted in their wolf ancestry, favouring high-protein, high-fat diets.
As we move forward, it’s crucial to focus on providing dogs with diets that align with their natural instincts and optimise their health. By understanding the history of dog food, we can make informed choices that honour their evolutionary needs while supporting their wellbeing.