Study describes key nutritional differences between grey wolves and domestic dogs
A study by Cambridge University has described some of the major nutritional differences that have resulted since the divergence of domestic dogs from wolves 13,000-17,000 years ago.
Some key gene changes occurred during canine domestication, resulting in the ability for starch digestion and glucose uptake. Additionally, like other omnivores, dogs can synthesise sufficient levels of some essential nutrients like taurine, arginine, and niacin, whereas true carnivores, like cats, cannot.
When the faeces of wolves are assessed, it is clear that almost all of their nutrient intake comes from consuming other animals Furthermore their selected protein-fat-carbohydrate intake profile is different from that of dogs as a result of domesticated dogs’ consumption to human foods as they adapted alongside them. In addition to this, although wolves have an overall higher energy requirement, which means their daily nutrient intake is higher, the balance of nutrient profile (Calcium, Magnesium etc.) is different for dogs and wolves.
It is hypothesised that it is the wolf’s adaptable metabolism, built for both feast and famine, that allowed the transition from carnivore to omnivore.
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