Remember the 1992 family classic Beethoven? The giant, loveable Saint Bernard who caused chaos wherever he went? Whether he was slobbering all over the breakfast table or making an unforgettable splash in the backyard, Beethoven’s antics were legendary. But have you ever wondered how such a big, energetic dog could have benefitted from a more balanced, nutritious diet? Let’s take a deeper dive into what a raw diet could do for dogs like Beethoven—dogs that are big, boisterous, and full of personality.
The Beethoven Energy Challenge
Beethoven was the quintessential large breed dog—full of energy, a bit mischievous, and always looking for adventure. His antics, from stealing food to tearing around the house, made for great entertainment but often left his owners feeling overwhelmed. While much of Beethoven’s behavior was simply his personality, some of it might have been influenced by his diet. Like many big dogs, Beethoven needed a steady, nutrient-rich diet to support his size, energy levels, and overall health.
A lot of dogs like Beethoven are fed commercially available kibble, which is often filled with preservatives, additives, and fillers that don’t contribute much to their health. The result? Dogs that have plenty of sugar-induced energy but lack the balanced nutrients that can help calm their behavior and support their physical well-being.
How a Raw Diet Could Have Made a Difference
1. Improved Behavior Through Better Nutrition
One of the most significant benefits of a raw diet is that it provides balanced, natural nutrition without the additives and fillers found in processed kibble. For a dog like Beethoven, who is naturally energetic, a raw diet could help provide more stable energy levels. Instead of the energy spikes and crashes that come with high-carb kibble, a raw diet offers steady energy throughout the day.
Beethoven’s mischievous behavior could have been partly due to excess energy from a less-than-ideal diet. The high-quality proteins and healthy fats found in a raw diet provide the kind of steady, long-lasting energy that helps large dogs feel satisfied and less inclined to act out due to restlessness or hunger.
2. Supporting Joint and Bone Health
Saint Bernards are known for their size, and with that size comes a unique set of health considerations, particularly joint and bone health. A raw diet is rich in natural sources of calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and healthy joints. Raw meaty bones, an essential part of a balanced raw diet, provide these nutrients in a bioavailable form that large breed dogs need to support their massive frames.
For Beethoven, incorporating raw meaty bones into his diet could have provided the nutritional support necessary to keep his joints in good shape, potentially preventing some of the common issues that large breed dogs face as they age, like arthritis and hip dysplasia.
3. Healthier Weight Management
Big dogs like Beethoven are prone to weight gain, especially if they are eating high-calorie, low-nutrient kibble. A raw diet, on the other hand, is naturally species-appropriate and helps maintain lean muscle mass while reducing unnecessary fat. By feeding a biologically appropriate raw diet, Beethoven could have stayed at a healthier weight, reducing the strain on his joints and helping him stay agile and active.
Raw diets are high in protein and low in carbohydrates, which makes it easier for dogs to maintain muscle and keep off extra pounds. For Beethoven, this could mean fewer health issues related to obesity and a longer, healthier life.
4. Better Digestion and Less Slobber
Okay, maybe a raw diet wouldn’t have completely eliminated Beethoven’s slobber—some things are just part of the Saint Bernard charm. But a raw diet can improve digestion, leading to firmer stools and fewer digestive issues overall. Many large dogs suffer from digestive problems on a commercial kibble diet, including bloating, gas, and inconsistent stools. Raw feeding provides the natural enzymes and nutrients needed for better digestion, reducing stomach upset and making mealtime more comfortable for dogs.
For Beethoven, improved digestion could mean fewer accidents, less gas, and a more comfortable belly, which might have also contributed to better behavior and a calmer demeanor overall.
5. Dental Health: Goodbye to the Sloppy Kisses Smell
One thing we all remember about Beethoven was his penchant for big, wet kisses. While the affection is sweet, the smell isn’t always as enjoyable. Raw feeding naturally helps improve dental health because chewing on raw meaty bones helps scrape away plaque and tartar buildup. Healthier teeth mean better breath and fewer trips to the vet for dental cleanings.
For Beethoven, regular chewing on raw bones could have helped keep his teeth clean and his breath a little more pleasant, making those sloppy kisses a bit more tolerable for his family.
Raw Diet: Making the Beethoven-Level Chaos More Manageable
We all love our big, boisterous dogs, but there’s no denying that they can be a handful. A balanced raw diet not only supports their physical health but can also help make their behavior more manageable. For a dog like Beethoven, a raw diet could mean:
- Steadier Energy: No more sugar crashes or hyperactivity; just consistent, even energy.
- Improved Joint Health: Natural calcium and phosphorus to support growing bones and aging joints.
- Healthier Weight: Lean muscle maintenance and reduced fat, leading to fewer health problems down the line.
- Better Digestion: Firmer stools, less gas, and fewer digestive issues for more comfort.
- Cleaner Teeth: Fresher breath and less plaque, making those affectionate moments more enjoyable.
Conclusion: Could Your Dog Benefit from a Raw Diet?
If you have a dog like Beethoven—big, energetic, and always keeping you on your toes—consider the potential benefits of a raw diet. Just like Beethoven could have thrived with the right nutrition, your dog may experience significant improvements in energy levels, joint health, digestion, and overall well-being. Feeding raw isn’t just about giving your dog food; it’s about nourishing them with the diet they were meant to eat, supporting every aspect of their physical and emotional health.
For those ready to take the next step, our pre-made raw dog food options provide all the nutrients your dog needs, with the convenience of being ready to serve. Why not give it a try and see if a raw diet helps make your Beethoven a bit more balanced, healthy, and happy?
