Why Elk and Venison? A Simple Guide to Novel Proteins for Dogs

Chicken and beef show up in a lot of dog food. Elk and venison don't, and that's a big part of why we built Primitive Paws around them. Here's what makes these two red meats a great choice for your dog's bowl.

What is a "novel protein"?

A novel protein is simply a protein your dog hasn't eaten much (or at all) before. Because elk and venison are far less common in dog food than chicken or beef, they're novel for most dogs. That makes them a popular switch for picky eaters, dogs bored with their food, and owners who want to rotate proteins. If your dog has a known food sensitivity, talk with your vet about whether a novel protein makes sense for them.

Elk

Elk is a naturally lean red meat with a rich flavor dogs love. It's the star of every Primitive Paws pack.

Venison

Venison (deer meat) is another lean red meat. Paired with elk, it gives every bowl a hearty, satisfying mix that dogs dig into.

What else is in the bag?

Just two more things:

• Ground bone, finely ground and mixed right in, the way dogs have eaten for thousands of years.
• Bone broth, slow-simmered for flavor and moisture in every bite.

That's the whole ingredient list: elk, venison, ground bone and bone broth. No fillers, no preservatives, no additives. Compare that to the long list on the back of a typical kibble bag.

Try it for yourself

The best way to know if your dog loves elk and venison is to let them taste it. Start with the 12 lb Trial Pack or subscribe and save on a full case.