The Evolution of Pet Food

The dog has been a constant companion of humans for thousands of years.
Despite the changes in the physical and functional characteristics of our
canine companion, genetically they all share the same basic internal
anatomy and physiological functions. The dog is both a scavenger and a
hunter and thus survives on a wide variety of ingredients in its diet.

Commercial pet foods are a modern invention. Since James Spratt patented
the first baked dog biscuit (1860), the majority of pet owners and
veterinarians have become convinced that these modern diets are the only
way  to feed your pet. Canned dog food did not reach the market until 1922,
when left over horse meat for human consumption was canned for dog food.
Acceptance was slow at first, but by 1932 there was no stopping it and look
at the industry today. From the beginning, consumer appeal and
convenience were the operative words, NOT GOOD NUTRITION. As the
market became more competitive, specialized nutrition became the new
marketing tool to woo the consumer.

Yet with all the evolutionary changes in pet food  and so called specialized
and super premium diets doing wonders for the modern dog have we seen a
dramatic decline in hip dysplasia, OCD, elbow problems, obesity, diabetes
mellitus, and other metabolic and endocrine diseases?

The answer form a scientific point of view is NO! Diet related disease is
increasing despite the so called "wonder diets" being massed produced
today.

Vaccines and medical improvements have contributed to a decline in
parasitic and viral diseases.