TORONTO — With 59% of dogs classified as overweight or obese, the need for healthier feeding practices and nutrition has never been more paramount, according to Dog Standards. In response to the pet obesity epidemic, the fresh dog food company introduced its new Topper program.
According to Canadian veterinarians, managing a pet’s weight is the No. 1 thing pet owners can do to help increase the length of their pet’s life. However, 95% of pet parents with obese dogs incorrectly identified their pets as being a normal weight, according to research from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Additionally, a study from the University of Guelph found that pet owners frequently over-measure kibble, further exacerbating their dogs’ weight issues.
Obesity is not just a weight issue but also poses a much larger risk as it’s been linked to diseases like cancer. Switching a dog’s food with just 25% real food may help reduce the risk of cancer by up to 90%, according to a Purdue University study.
“In my expert opinion, research shows about half of all senior pets get cancer and nearly 60% of all dogs are overweight,” said Suzee Camilleri, DVSc, DVM, veterinary pathologist. “I have seen firsthand with my own dogs how a fresh diet can eliminate skin conditions and improve health to help increase their lifespans. The good news is diet is within pet parents’ control.”
Through its new Topper program, which also marks the delivery of the company’s one millionth meal, Dog Standards aims to help pet parents add human-grade, gently cooked nutrition to their dogs’ existing diet. The company’s fresh formulas are formulated by veterinary nutritionists to ensure dogs receive optimal nutrients, without overfeeding, according to the company.
“I was inspired to create Dog Standards after I saw how fresh food extended and improved my own dogs’ life,” said Jessica Bevilacqua, founder of the company. “My mission is to empower pet parents to provide healthier feeding options, and have it be convenient and properly balanced.”
According to Dog Standards, it is the only company of its kind in Canada, offering consumers veterinarian-led meal planning and a tailored feeding guide, down to the exact gram each dog needs.
“Food is medicine for us and the same is true for our pets,” Bevilacqua said. “Countless customers share stories of weight management, elimination of skin conditions and allergies, improved behavior… the list goes on.”
With awareness of pet health rising amongst consumers, minimally processed, like fresh and gently cooked, pet foods have gained popularity — especially with younger consumers. According to data shared by Dog Standards, the global fresh dog food sector was valued at $22.3 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $35 billion by 2032. Dog Standards is positioned to benefit from this growth. Since last year the company has witnessed 30% month-over-month sales growth, and nearly a 100% increase in revenue.
Read more about Dog Standards and its focus on fresh, tailored meals.
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