Dr. Mark Roberts

03/01/2025

Studies show that both wolves and domestic dogs naturally select meat-based diets rich in fat and protein, with minimal carbohydrates.

Wolves in the wild target fat first for its high energy content—essential for survival in feast-and-famine conditions. Similarly, when dogs are allowed to self-select their meals, they initially consume large amounts of fat, gradually balancing it with more protein as their needs change.

This instinctive preference reveals the remarkable connection between our furry companions and their wild lineage.

02/01/2025

Win a nutritious treat for your furry friend!

The Prize:
1 Bag of RAW Freeze Dried Grass-Fed Beef Dinner
1 Bag of Venison Trail Mix Treats

Both are made from high-quality, whole foods sourced from New Zealand, featuring:
- Grass-fed beef packed with nutrients and complemented by superfoods like New Zealand Green Mussel, King Salmon, Kiwifruit, and Blackcurrants
- Venison Trail Mix treats, made from freeze-dried venison lung, kidney, and spleen—rich in protein and vitamins

How to Enter:
1. Like this post
2. Follow our page
3. Tag 2 friends who love dogs

Give your pup the chance to try these nutrient-packed, delicious meals and treats.

species appropriate diet research Canine Nutrition Guided By Leading Research [email protected] Canine Evolutionary Nutritionist Mark Roberts PhD   My name is Dr Mark Roberts and I work as a canine evolutionary nutritionist. I’m in a unique position, whereby I have a strong academic ...

31/12/2024

A healthy diet for your dog isn’t just about providing all the necessary nutrients—it’s also about making sure they’ll actually eat it! Many kibble-based diets rely on high carbohydrate content because it helps hold the food together during processing and is cheaper than protein or fat. However, this can impact the flavor and palatability, even with added flavor coatings. Always consider your dog’s preferences and ensure their diet is both nutritious and enjoyable for them to eat.

30/12/2024

Balancing soluble and insoluble fiber in your dog’s diet can make a big difference in their digestive health! Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools and affects how food moves through the digestive system, while soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance. The right combination can help address issues like diarrhea or constipation. Every dog is unique, so finding the right balance is key.

23/12/2024

Nice and cold for today’s run. I find that for my dogs (which are Siberian Huskies), they perform much better at these temperatures and below.

23/12/2024

Did you know the right protein and fat ratio is key to maintaining ketosis in dogs?

Aim for approximately 60% protein and 40% fat (dry matter basis) for moderate ketosis. For therapeutic benefits, increase fat and reduce protein. Every dog is unique, so measuring β-hydroxybutyrate levels can help you customize their diet.

species appropriate diet research Canine Nutrition Guided By Leading Research [email protected] Canine Evolutionary Nutritionist Mark Roberts PhD   My name is Dr Mark Roberts and I work as a canine evolutionary nutritionist. I’m in a unique position, whereby I have a strong academic ...

21/12/2024

Did you know that just like humans, dogs can develop two types of diabetes?

Type 1 (Insulin-dependent Diabetes Mellitus) happens when a dog's pancreas stops producing enough insulin, meaning they’ll need lifelong insulin injections to help glucose enter their cells for energy.

Type 2 (Non-insulin-dependent Diabetes Mellitus) usually results from obesity and excessive processed carbohydrates. In this case, dogs still produce insulin, but their body’s tissues become resistant to it.

Preventing diabetes is essential for your dog's health and well-being! Keep them active, feed them low carbohydrate meals, and monitor their weight to reduce the risk.

20/12/2024

Good morning kids!

19/12/2024

Wondering if dogs can eat spinach?

Yes, they can, but only in moderation!

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, spinach can be a healthy addition to your dog's diet. Just make sure to cook it and serve it in small portions—too much can lead to digestive issues.

Keep your dog’s health in check with balanced meals!

species appropriate diet research Canine Nutrition Guided By Leading Research [email protected] Canine Evolutionary Nutritionist Mark Roberts PhD   My name is Dr Mark Roberts and I work as a canine evolutionary nutritionist. I’m in a unique position, whereby I have a strong academic ...

19/12/2024

With Christmas fast approaching, I thought I share my dog festive decorations. Let’s see what you have!

18/12/2024

As dogs age, their energy needs change.

This happens because older dogs tend to be less active, naturally requiring less energy than when they were younger. Adjusting their diet to match these changes can help maintain a healthy weight and support overall well-being.

Keep your senior dog thriving by giving them the nutrition they need!

17/12/2024

Help your dog stay healthy by ensuring their diet is balanced with the right macronutrients. Proper nutrition supports weight management and overall well-being.

14/12/2024

Support your senior dog's health by ensuring they get enough protein in their diet. Older dogs naturally lose muscle tissue over time, but a high-protein diet can help preserve their muscle mass and keep them stronger for longer. Prioritize their nutrition for a healthier, happier life!

13/12/2024

A ketogenic diet can offer several benefits for dogs, but achieving the right balance is crucial. Simply reducing carbohydrates isn’t enough. For the diet to be effective, it’s essential to maintain the correct fat-to-protein ratio.

Why does this matter? Excess protein can interfere with ketosis by being converted into glucose, thanks to gluconeogenic amino acids like alanine. This process can prevent your dog from fully reaping the benefits of a ketogenic diet, as it reduces the level of fat being used for energy.

species appropriate diet research Canine Nutrition Guided By Leading Research [email protected] Canine Evolutionary Nutritionist Mark Roberts PhD   My name is Dr Mark Roberts and I work as a canine evolutionary nutritionist. I’m in a unique position, whereby I have a strong academic ...

12/12/2024

Adjusting your dog’s fiber intake can improve stool quality. Start with small amounts of fiber sources like psyllium husk or flaxseed and slowly increase to see what works best for your dog’s digestion.

12/12/2024

Cold weather can be tough on dogs, but with a few precautions, you can keep your furry friend comfortable and healthy throughout the season. By taking these steps, you can ensure your dog stays safe and happy all winter long.

10/12/2024

If you're thinking about feeding your dog a homemade diet, it's crucial to consult a trained nutritionist to ensure the meals are properly balanced and meet your dog's specific nutritional needs. Without expert guidance, it's easy to miss important nutrients or create imbalances that could impact their health. Make sure you're providing the best for your dog by seeking professional advice.

07/12/2024

For optimal heart health in dogs, focus on feeding proteins like chicken, turkey, and fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and support overall heart function. Include antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like blueberries and spinach to improve circulation and provide essential vitamins and minerals. Fats from sources like fish oil, flaxseeds, and chia seeds can also help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support a healthy heart for your dog.

species appropriate diet research Canine Nutrition Guided By Leading Research [email protected] Canine Evolutionary Nutritionist Mark Roberts PhD   My name is Dr Mark Roberts and I work as a canine evolutionary nutritionist. I’m in a unique position, whereby I have a strong academic ...