Can Raw Dog Food Be Cooked?

Advocates of raw food diets for dogs believe that uncooked foods, including meats, provide superior nutrition than cooked or commercial dog food. However, sometimes heated meals may be more beneficial to a dog's health.

  1. Function

    • A recuperating dog may find cooked food more appetizing.

      Dogs on a raw food diet may find warm, cooked foods to be more appetizing during times of illness, low appetite or distress.

    Theories/Speculation

    • Many veterinarians believe raw diets put dogs at risk of gastrointestinal illnesses and choking. Holistic veterinarian Marty Goldstein believes "cooked food and enzyme supplements are the only way to go."

    Features

    • You can find easy recipes to turn raw food into cooked meals. "Spot's Stew," as seen in the book "The Whole Pet Diet," contains poultry, vegetables, kelp powder and herbs.

    Considerations

    • Cooked raw foods should be supplemented with nutritional elements destroyed by heat. Vitamin C and live enzymes are two examples.

    Warning

    • Never feed cooked bones. Cooked bones are a choking hazard, while uncooked bones usually are not.