Whilst vets are increasingly promoting raw feeding, some vets are unfortunately still 'anti-raw' mainly because they know little to none about raw feeding and have only learnt about feeding dry food during study.

It is therefore important for pet parents to be aware of the differences between select blood values of raw fed dogs and dry food fed dogs especially if facing a vet which is unfamiliar with the difference in such blood values. Some results of raw fed dogs may be 'off' from the 'normal' blood values, in view that these are based on the values of kibble fed pets. 

Which blood values may be 'off'?

Dr. Jean Dodds performed a study that involved over 200 dogs of various breeds fed a raw diet for a minimum of 9 months prior to collection of the blood samples. The results of the lab tests were compared to healthy dogs fed a dry kibble diet (test results can be seen below). Most of the values were comparable with the following exceptions:

• Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a measurement of the percentage of the body's red blood cells. A low or decreased level of Hematocrit (anemia) can be due to poor nutrition, chronic disease or parasites. Raw-fed dogs may have higher Hematocrit levels than a kibble fed dog since they receive more highly digestible animal protein (as opposed to plant proteins and protein from animal by-products in biscuits), and therefore more highly available sources of iron and B vitamins, which are requisite for red blood cell growth.

• BUN

Blood Urea Nitrogen is a waste product derived from protein breakdown in the liver. Low levels are most commonly due to inadequate protein intake, malabsorption, or liver damage. Increased levels can be caused by kidney damage, certain drugs, low fluid intake, intestinal bleeding, exercise, heart failure or decreased digestive enzyme production by the pancreas. Raw fed dogs typically have higher BUN levels because they consume more protein and in acceptable levels may indicate strong muscle development and optimal protein utilization.

• Creatinine

Creatinine is also a protein breakdown product. Its level is a reflection of the body’s muscle mass. Low levels are commonly seen with inadequate protein intake, liver disease, kidney damage or pregnancy. Elevated levels are generally reflective of kidney damage and need to be monitored carefully.  Since raw diets naturally contain more moisture, raw-fed dogs often show better hydration levels in blood tests. This natural hydration reduces kidney stress and can result in lower creatinine levels, suggesting better kidney health and overall hydration status.