In the wild, canidae are predators hunting in packs, where food has a strong value in terms of the social hierarchy. Accustomed to irregular meals, they are able to diversify their diet and rapidly ingest large amounts of food.

DOGS ARE PACK ANIMALS

In the wild, dogs live and hunt in hierarchically structured packs. Access to food is determined by a precise hierarchical logic, with dominant animals eating first, before the others and choosing the best pieces. This dietary ritual aims to favor the strongest animals responsible for reproduction. A symbol of high hierarchical position, it is expressed even when food is abundant. Domestic dogs retain this social value of food. So, between two equally palatable foods, the one from the owner’s table (considered dominant) will be preferred. The dog’s attitude towards food (rejection, fussiness, preference for food served from the table, etc.) may thus be an expression of social hierarchy.

DOGS ARE “GLUTTON FEEDERS” AND OMNIVORES

In the wild, the pack captures prey irregularly. Furthermore, there is competition for access to food. This is why dogs have developed the ability to gulp down large amounts of food very quickly. When famished, they can eat other foods, like fruit and vegetables. Dogs can seek out the protein they need by spontaneously choosing foods that provide 25% to 30% of the protein in their ration.