episode #161
Did you know?
Real Dog Box made it again onto Susan Thixton’s 2025/2026 Truth About Pet Food Treat List! This trusted list is all about real transparency – no pay-to-play, no freebies – just brands that prove they put pet health first. 💪
To make the cut, we showed:
✅ Human edible or USDA inspected ingredients
✅ Organic sourcing (shoutout to our mushrooms!)
✅ Clear ingredient origins from the USA, NZ, and Canada
✅ BPA-free packaging
✅ Independent testing standards
We’re proud to be recognized for doing what we do best – offering treats your pups can truly trust. 💚🐾
Box 126 - Watch the unboxing!
Available until July 7th ONLY, here’s the current lineup:
🐷 Pork Heart
🦬 Bison Spleen
🐟 Anchovies
🐔 Chicken Feet
🐖 Pig Skin
🦬 Bison Trachea
🐷 Pig Foot
🐖 Pork Meatballs
🐽🐷 Pork Liver/Pork Kidney Kibble Topper
Your Referrals = Real Rewards!
For every friend you refer, they’ll get a free bag of treats with their first box, and you’ll earn 10 RDC—Wellness Members get 20 RDC!
Each RDC is worth $1 and can be used toward your next order, membership, add-ons, or even in our exclusive Secret Shop! 🤑
Every subscriber has a unique referral link, which you can find in your dashboard! Don’t know your link? Text member services at 858-348-5954 or email us at help@real.dog.
Learn more about Real Dog Coin here!
Hugging Your Dog? They’re Not a Fan – They’re Just Being Polite
Studies show over 80% of dogs display stress signals (like turning away, lip licking, or flattened ears) when hugged. In video clips, two-thirds even tried to nip or bite. Experts explain that dogs, built to flee when stressed, see hugs as uncomfortable restraint, not affection. While your pup may not bite the hand that hugs, they're probably hoping you’ll settle for a belly rub instead.
Pup and Two Men Survive Florida Plane Crash
A dog was among the fortunate few to survive a small plane crash into the Indian River Lagoon near Melbourne Beach, Florida. Despite the frightening impact, the pup stayed calm and swam alongside two men toward safety. A Good Samaritan in a kayak guided the trio to shore, where Florida Fish and Wildlife officers and Brevard County rescue teams were waiting. All occupants, including the dog, are reported in good condition.
Hero K9 Set to Retire After Surviving Attack
K9 Andor, a police dog in Waco, Texas, was shot three times while helping officers respond to a call about an armed suspect. The bullets struck his neck and chest, but his protective vest and collar likely saved his life. Andor survived the attack but will be medically retired due to the severity of his injuries. Despite his early retirement, police say he should still enjoy a good quality of life.
Study Confirms Dogs Thrive on Whole Food Over Kibble.
A recent study comparing dehydrated natural dog food to traditional kibble found clear health advantages in the less processed option; further supporting the benefits of fresh, whole-food feeding. Dogs on the dehydrated diet showed stronger immune responses, better antioxidant activity, improved fiber and mineral digestibility, and lower cholesterol and glucose levels. While not entirely fresh, dehydrated foods avoid the heavy processing of kibble and retain more nutritional integrity. These results align with growing evidence that minimally processed, whole-food diets promote better long-term health for dogs.
Tragic Shed Fire in Florida Claims Nine Dogs
A devastating shed fire in Altamonte Springs, Florida, claimed the lives of nine dogs early Sunday morning. Fire crews responded around 3 a.m. to find two sheds ablaze between neighboring homes. One shed was housing the dogs, all of whom didn’t make it in the fire. Officials confirmed the cause was accidental, sparked by an electrical issue. No people or firefighters were injured, but the loss of the animals has left a deep impact on the community.
Royal Canin’s “Fresh” Dog Food: Better Nutrition or Just Marketing?
Royal Canin’s new gently cooked dog food promises tailored nutrition for puppies, adults, and seniors, using fresh ingredients like pork, veggies, and brown rice - while claiming to be cutting out corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives. But a closer look at the adult formula reveals heavy use of brown rice, seed oils, and synthetic vitamins, raising questions about how “fresh” and healthy it really is. Is this truly a step forward in canine nutrition, or just clever marketing wrapped in a freezer bag?
Senior Pup Bravely Faces Off with Bear Inside Home
17-year-old Doodle showed remarkable bravery when a black bear broke into his owner’s home in Monrovia, California, while she slept. The bear smashed through a screen door and clawed at Doodle, who barked fiercely and stood his ground despite his age. The two locked eyes in a tense moment before Doodle yipped and retreated safely. The bear, wearing a collar and reportedly a frequent visitor in the neighborhood, even raided the fridge before calmly leaving. Thankfully, Doodle was unharmed in this wild showdown caught on night-vision security cameras.
Last Chance for FRS25 Early Bird Ticket Pricing!
If you’ve been thinking about joining us at the 3rd Annual Feed Real Summit this October in sunny San Diego, now’s the time to act.
This isn’t your average pet event — it’s two full days packed with hands-on learning, expert talks, and all things real food and canine wellness.
🎟️ Early bird pricing is ending on June 22, so don’t miss your chance to save!
Ready to dive in and give your pup’s health a major boost? 👉 Grab your tickets today!