Does Raw Dog Food REALLY Improve Your Dogs Health?

As pet owners, we all want to ensure that our furry companions are healthy and happy. One topic that has gained a lot of attention in recent years is raw dog food. Some pet owners swear by it, claiming that it has improved their dog’s health and wellbeing. But is there any truth to these claims? In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential benefits and risks of feeding your dog a raw food diet.

What is Raw Dog Food?

Raw dog food, as the name suggests, is food that is not cooked. It typically consists of raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. Proponents of raw dog food claim that it is a more natural and nutritious diet for dogs, as it mimics what they would eat in the wild.

Potential Benefits of Raw Dog Food

Improved Dental Health

One of the main benefits of raw dog food is improved dental health. Raw meat and bones require more chewing than kibble, which can help to remove plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth. This can reduce the risk of dental problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay.

Better Digestion

Raw dog food is also believed to be easier for dogs to digest. Proponents of raw food claim that it can help to reduce digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. This is because raw food is more natural and contains fewer additives and preservatives than commercial dog food.

Healthier Skin and Coat

Many pet owners who feed their dogs raw food also claim that it has improved their dog’s skin and coat. This is because raw food is rich in essential fatty acids, which are important for skin and coat health. Additionally, the lack of preservatives and additives in raw food can reduce the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritations.

Risks of Raw Dog Food

Despite these potential benefits, there are also some risks associated with feeding your dog a raw food diet. These include:

Bacterial Infections

Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria can be harmful to both dogs and humans, and can cause serious illness. It is important to handle and store raw meat properly to reduce the risk of bacterial infections.

Imbalanced Diet

Feeding your dog a raw food diet can be challenging, as it can be difficult to ensure that your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. A balanced diet for dogs should contain a specific ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Without proper planning and preparation, a raw food diet can be nutritionally imbalanced.

Potential Choking Hazard

Feeding your dog bones can also be risky, as they can cause choking or internal injuries. Cooked bones, in particular, can splinter and cause serious harm to your dog’s digestive system.

Conclusion

So, does raw dog food REALLY improve your dog’s health? The answer is not straightforward. While there are potential benefits to feeding your dog raw food, there are also risks to consider. If you’re considering switching your dog to a raw food diet, it’s important to do your research and consult with your vet to ensure that you’re making the right decision for your furry companion.

If you do decide to feed your dog raw food, it’s important to handle and store it properly to reduce the risk of bacterial infections. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your dog’s diet is balanced and contains all the necessary nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.

Ultimately, the decision to feed your dog raw food is a personal one. As a responsible pet owner, it’s up to you to make the best decision for you and your dog.

Further Reading

1. Schlesinger DP, Joffe DJ. Raw food diets in companion animals: A critical review. Can Vet J. 2011;52(1):50-54. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3003575/
2. Freeman LM, Chandler ML, Hamper BA, Weeth LP. Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat–based diets for dogs and cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2013;243(11):1549-1558. Available from: https://avmajournals.avma.org/doi/full/10.2460/javma.243.11.1549