Can Pet Dogs Eat Raw Meat? Weighing the Pros and Cons 

Disclaimer: This article aims to inform pet owners about the potential pros and cons of feeding dogs raw meat. However, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet.

As a loving pet owner, it’s natural to want the best for our furry best friends – and part of that is ensuring they’re fed a nutritious and well-balanced diet. 

While some dog owners swear by a raw meat diet, others aren’t entirely convinced. Can our pet dogs eat raw meat, and if so, is it beneficial or detrimental to their health? 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of feeding your dog raw meat to help you make a healthy and informed decision about your pet’s diet.

Pros & Cons of Feeding Your Dog Raw Meat

The Evolutionary Argument: Wolves and Domesticated Dogs

Supporters of the raw meat diet argue that dogs are genetically similar to their wild counterparts – wolves – and that their ancestral diet primarily consisted of raw meat. Since both wolves and domesticated dogs share the same digestive systems, the claim goes that dropping kibbles and switching to a raw meat diet provides a more natural and healthier option for our pets.

Potential Health Benefits of Raw Meat for Dogs

There are numerous potential health benefits linked to feeding your dog raw meat. For example, the content of essential fatty acids such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 can contribute to a healthier coat by reducing sheddings and itching.

Additionally, chewing on raw meat and bones provides dental benefits by naturally removing plaque and tartar buildup while helping exercise the jaw muscles.

Another positive is an increase in energy levels. Thanks to being rich in digestible proteins, raw meat can provide a sustained source of energy for your dog. Plus, the absence of fillers and additives ensures that your dog receives pure, high-quality nutrients, which can contribute to improved vitality and stamina.

Proponents of raw meat diets also claim that it lowers the risk of certain health conditions resulting from commercial pet food, such as allergies and obesity.

But are you willing to pay the price for a high-risk diet with little reward?

Risks Associated with Feeding Raw Meat 

Conversely, the raw meat diet has some significant risks and concerns. 

The biggest problem is the presence of harmful bacteria, like E.coli and Salmonella, which occur during improper handling and storage of raw meat. This can cause health issues for dogs and humans who handle raw meat. 

Also, raw meat alone doesn’t provide the proper nutritional balance your pet needs. Served as is, it lacks specific vitamins, minerals, or other essential nutrients necessary for your dog’s overall health and well-being without proper supplementation.

There’s also some danger to feeding your pup large chunks of raw meat or bones, as it risks choking, especially for small dogs when bone fragments break off. Finally, raw meat diets often involve more extensive meal preparation than simply opening a bag of kibbles or wet dog food. It’s simply not feasible for busy pet owners or those with limited time for meal preparation.

Special Considerations: Breed and Age

Different breeds and ages may require specialized diets. For example, larger breeds may benefit from additional bone content, while puppies require a higher protein intake. Always consult a veterinarian for age and breed-specific dietary advice.

Precautions for Handling Raw Meat

If you want to switch your furry friend’s diet to raw meat, here are some important reminders.

• Store meat at the proper temperatures. Raw meat is usually stored in a freezer at 0°F or colder. The safe temperature is approximately 4°C (39°F) or colder.
• Always wash your hands and sterilize utensils after handling raw meat.
• Practice caution when sourcing raw meat; human-grade is preferable.

Debunking Myths

• Myth: Raw meat diets are good for all dogs.
• Truth: Some dogs may have adverse reactions or pre-existing conditions that make a raw meat diet unsuitable. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Veterinary Association strongly recommend against feeding dogs raw meat. The health risks outweigh the potential benefits, so make sure to consult a vet before switching.

In short, your dog can eat raw meat; it’s simply not advisable.

Conclusion

While feeding your pet dog raw meat has pros and cons, remember to weigh the potential health benefits against risk factors and inconveniences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on a thorough understanding of your pet’s specific needs and dietary requirements and your ability to handle and prepare raw meat safely. 

Consulting with a veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist can provide invaluable guidance on whether or not to consider a raw meat diet for your precious pup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a raw meat diet more expensive?

Generally, yes, especially if sourcing high-quality, human-grade meat.

Can I mix raw meat with kibble?

Mixing dry dog food with raw meat is perfectly safe unless your dog has a delicate digestive system or gastrointestinal issues. Dogs can digest different types of food simultaneously since their digestive system does not differentiate between them. 

If you decide to transition your dog to a raw meat diet, you should start by mixing your dog’s kibble or usual canned food, and gradually adding in more raw meat. Switching from commercial to raw meals without that interim period invites gastrointestinal upset.