The Dark Side of Dog Nutrition: How Social Media Influencers Are Misleading Pet Owners

In the digital age, social media has become a go-to source for information on almost any topic, including dog nutrition. However, while these platforms can offer valuable insights and foster communities of pet lovers, they also present significant challenges and risks. This article explores the pitfalls of social media dog nutrition accounts and provides guidance on selecting reliable canine nutrition advice.

The Problems with social media and Dog Nutrition influencer Accounts

1. Lack of Credentials: Many social media influencers and accounts offering dog nutrition advice lack proper credentials. Unlike licensed veterinarians or certified animal nutritionists, these individuals may not have formal education or training in animal health and nutrition. This can lead to the dissemination of misinformation. They are also not insured to be giving out advice, you take it at your own risk. Where’s the come back if something goes wrong.

2. Anecdotal Evidence: Much of the advice on social media is based on personal anecdotes rather than scientific research. While sharing personal experiences can be helpful, it does not replace the rigorous testing and peer-reviewed studies that underpin credible nutritional guidance. Look out for phrases such as “in my opinion” you shouldn’t be taking advice from someone who is basing it from personal experience with their own dog.

3. Misleading Marketing: Some social media accounts are run by individuals or companies with a financial interest in promoting specific products. This can result in biased advice aimed at selling supplements, foods, or other products, rather than prioritizing the dog's health. Choose products recommended by professionals who are not paid to do so. Look at taking ddvice from a vet or a canine nutritionist who does not affiliate with brands and recommends a product because it works

4. Overgeneralisation: Social media advice often fails to account for the individual needs of each dog. Factors like age, breed, health status, and lifestyle significantly influence a dog's nutritional requirements. Generalised advice based on their own personal experience with their dog may not address these specific needs, leading to inadequate or harmful feeding practices.

What to Look for When Choosing Advice from a Canine Nutritionist

Given the potential pitfalls of social media, it's crucial to seek advice from qualified professionals when it comes to your dog's nutrition. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Credentials and Certification: Look for professionals with relevant credentials, such as a Board-certified Veterinary nutritionist (especially for therapeutic recipes) unfortunately anyone can become a canine nutritionist as it’s an unregulated industry. 

2. Evidence-Based Recommendations: A reputable canine nutritionist will base their advice on scientific evidence and current research. They should be able to provide references to studies or clinical guidelines that support their recommendations.

3. Comprehensive Assessments: A good nutritionist will take a holistic approach, considering your dog's overall health, medical history, lifestyle, and preferences. They should offer personalised plans rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. They will also take into account yours and your families circumstances.

4. Transparency and Communication: Look for a nutritionist who communicates clearly and is transparent about their methods and the reasoning behind their advice. They should be open to answering questions and discussing any concerns you may have.

5. Positive Reviews and Testimonials: While personal testimonials should not be the sole basis for your decision, positive reviews from other pet owners can provide additional reassurance. Look for feedback on the nutritionist’s effectiveness, professionalism, and the outcomes of their recommendations.

Red Flags

1.    They aren’t insured. Regardless of qualifications if the person or company you are dealing with isn’t insured stay clear.

2.    They say they create therapeutic recipes If a canine nutritionist offers recipes for CKD stage 2-4, cancer, liver issues, renal failure or heart disease stay clear.  Therapeutic recipes take time to make, rigorous testing to check nutrient levels are adequate for the problem we are treating. You may be doing more harm then good by feeding an untested therapeutic recipe.

3.    Their use of language – If you see an individual using Phrases such as; “that food is bad”, “fake food”, “dog’s never ate that in the wild” or “you don’t balance your children’s food so you don’t need to balance your dog’s” run for the hills. Polarised views and talking in absolutes should not have a place in nutrition.

4.    They Favour one feeding method– Raw feeding isn’t a cure for all issues dog’s have. A good canine nutritionist takes all the factors into consideration before even contemplating changing the diet. Nutrition should be the primary focus not making one feeding style fit every dog and owner. Look for someone with a good grasp of how nutrients work in the body, how you are able to get these nutrients in and also the problems with not doing so. If you tell a canine nutritionist that you don’t want to feed raw for valid reasons and they cannot give you an alternative stay clear.

5.    They can’t tell you why A good canine nutritionist should be able to explain to you why they are making changes, taking things away or adding things into your dog’s diet. It’s important that you understand everything and if they can’t tell you why then move away.

6.    They have a hidden agenda If they get paid to promote products, have financial affiliations with brands coupled with biases because of these question their motives. Will they truly be telling you what’s best for you and your dog or tailoring a plan to make additional money based on kick backs

 Questions to ask

If you choose to work with someone without a veterinary background, ask the following.

·         What previous experience have you had dealing with this problem?

·         Are you insured?

·         Do you favour one feeding method over another?

·         Can you give me working examples of where you have dealt with X issue with another client.

·        Do you work with vets?

·        Do I have to feed fresh food to work with you?

 Conclusion

Social media can be a useful tool for discovering new ideas and connecting with other dog owners, but it should not be the primary source of nutrition advice for your dog. The risks associated with unverified information and trendy diets underscore the importance of consulting qualified professionals. By considering credentials, experience, evidence-based practices, and thorough assessments, you can ensure that your furry friend receives the best possible nutritional care.