The Risks of Feeding Raw Food to Dogs

Feeding dogs is a matter of controversy in America. After the outbreak of poisoned grain in commercial dog food, many people are beginning to feed their dogs raw food. This has brought about many benefits, according to WebMD. These benefits include increased energy, smaller stools and shinier coats. However, there are some risks to giving a dog a raw food diet.

  1. Bacterial Infections

    • Raw foods can present gastrointestinal bacteria infections for dogs, much like they do for people, according to WebMD. This is because the food is naturally coated in bacteria that grows on the surface. If the dog does not immediately eat the food after it has been cleaned, the bacteria can populate and sicken the dog. Preventing this can be done by keeping the meat cold until ready to feed the dog and washing the meat with cool water immediately before feeding it to the dog. Remove the food from the dish and place it in the refrigerator if the dog does not immediately take it.

    Choking Hazard

    • There is a risk of a dog choking on whole bones if they are provided in the raw food diet. In addition, these bones can splinter while a dog eats them and rupture internal organs on their way to digestion. All bones should be removed from the meal before feeding it to the dog.

    Unbalanced Diet

    • Commercial dog food is designed to provide the dog with all the nutrients that it needs for optimum health. A lack in these nutrients can sicken or injure the dog. Dogs can receive these nutrients from a raw food diet or through vitamins. It is important that the owner speaks to an expert about what the dog should be given before attempting a raw food diet.