Feeding your dog isn’t just about filling their bowl; it’s about aligning with their natural biology to promote long-term health. According to Dr Will Maginness, a veterinarian and advocate for real food diets for pets, dogs thrive when fed just once a day. This approach not only mirrors their evolutionary history but also has profound health benefits.
The Case for Once-a-Day Feeding
Dogs are physiologically adapted to go for extended periods without food. Their ancestors, wild canines like wolves, would hunt and eat intermittently, often going a day or more between meals. This natural fasting period allows their digestive systems to rest and their bodies to detoxify, preventing unnecessary strain.
Modern research backs this up. Studies (*) have shown that dogs fed once daily have a reduced risk of developing age-related illnesses, such as cognitive decline and metabolic disorders. This feeding schedule gives their bodies time to process nutrients more efficiently and reduces inflammation associated with constant digestion.
(*) Research conducted by the Dog Aging Project.
Why Not Twice a Day—or More?
Many dog owners feed their pets twice a day or even more frequently, often out of concern that their dog will get hungry or need consistent energy. However, overfeeding or feeding too frequently, can lead to:
- Weight gain and obesity, which increases the risk of joint issues and heart disease.
- Digestive problems, as the constant influx of food doesn’t allow their gut to fully process and rest.
- Blood sugar imbalances, which can contribute to insulin resistance and other metabolic issues.
Switching from Kibble to Real Food
Like us, Dr Maginness strongly advises against feeding processed kibble, which he refers to as “junk food for dogs.” Most kibble is heavily processed, often filled with low-quality ingredients, and may contain harmful additives. Feeding kibble not only lacks nutritional value but also disrupts dogs’ natural digestion, further compounding health issues when combined with frequent feeding.
Instead, we recommend transitioning to a diet of real, minimally processed foods. A diet rich in fresh meats, vegetables, and other whole ingredients provides bioavailable nutrients that support digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Implementing Once-a-Day Feeding
Below are recommended steps to start your dog’s transition in feeding:
- Transition Gradually: If your dog currently eats multiple times a day, start by consolidating meals into two feedings, then gradually shift to once a day. (If it works for your dog, see Caution note at end.)
- Choose High-Quality Food: Prioritize fresh, raw, or minimally processed foods that are nutritionally dense and easy to digest. Avoid commercial kibble.
- Feed at the Right Time: Choose a consistent time each day for feeding—preferably when your dog is most active, such as midday or early evening, to optimize digestion and energy utilization. (Unless it is very hot as dogs may not have an appetite when they are overheated.)
- Monitor Your Dog’s Health: Pay attention to their weight, energy levels, and stool quality. Adjust portions if needed and consult with a veterinarian who understands the benefits of feeding real food, to ensure all nutritional needs are met.
Why Real Food and Fasting Matter
The combination of feeding once daily and providing whole foods mirror how dogs are designed to thrive. Periods without food promote a healthy metabolism, and real, unprocessed food supports robust immune function, better digestion, and vibrant energy levels. By aligning your dog’s diet with their natural constitution, you’re setting the foundation for a healthier, happier life.
Switching to once-a-day feeding with real food might seem like a big change, but the benefits are well worth it. As Dr Maginness emphasizes, “Feed your dog like you love them—with real food, not processed junk.” It’s a simple yet powerful way to prioritize their health and longevity.
Caution: For Some Dogs Once a Day Feeding is not Optimum
As always, every dog is unique and what works for one does not necessarily work for all. For some dogs feeding once a day may not be the answer. For example, for very large dogs who would need to ingest a large portion in one sitting, two smaller meals may be more suitable. In this instance the trick would be to feed about 6-8 hours apart which will still give the body about 16 hours of fasting. It is therefore important to always assess each dog individually when making decisions about their care.
The Raw Love Pets Team 🐾