Welcome to Bark Appètit

We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” It’s an idea that’s as simple as it is

powerful: the foods we consume become the fuel for our bodies, shaping our health, our

energy, and even our mood. But this concept doesn’t just apply to us—it’s just as true for our

four-legged companions. When we think of caring for our dogs, we often think of exercise,

love, and regular vet visits, but rarely do we look closely at one of the most fundamental

aspects of their health: their food.

In recent years, human nutrition has evolved to focus on whole, quality ingredients, and

many of us are more conscious than ever about what we put into our bodies. The same level

of care should extend to the food we put in our dog’s bowl. Just like us, dogs rely on the right

balance of nutrients to thrive. Food impacts every part of their lives: their energy levels, the

health of their coat and skin, their digestion, immune system, and even their temperament. In

short, the old saying is just as true for dogs as it is for us: they are what they eat.

This book is a guide to understanding what your dog really needs to live their healthiest,

happiest life. Together, we’ll explore the nutritional needs unique to dogs, look at the

ingredients that go into commercial dog foods, and examine how various food choices affect

a dog’s well-being. Along the way, we’ll delve into the science behind balanced canine

nutrition and practical ways to choose or prepare food that truly nourishes your dog.

If we want our dogs to live long, healthy lives by our sides, it starts with the food we give

them each day. They trust us to make choices for them. Let’s make those choices count,

ensuring that every meal they eat is a step toward a better, fuller life. Welcome to a journey

that begins in the bowl but leads to the heart of what it means to truly care for our dogs.