Feeding Dogs Raw Meat

There is some controversy as to whether you should feed your dog a raw meat diet; however, advocates of the idea propose that there are many benefits to be gained by your dog if put on such a diet.

  1. Dog Food vs. Raw Meat

    • Some say that only dog food can provide the balanced diet that dogs need to stay healthy. According to advocates of commercial dog food, eating anything other than processed dog food will make your dog sick. Raw food diet advocates point out that the toxins in processed dog foods are unhealthy.

    Theories/Speculation

    • Proponents of a raw meat diet for dogs state that because dogs are direct descendants of wolves and share the same DNA, a raw meat diet is healthier for them.

    Raw Meat Diet

    • A raw meat diet consists of any and all raw meat kept refrigerated or frozen until your pet's feeding time. This includes livers, hearts, chicken, pork and beef--although venison, such as deer or antelope meat, is best. Steve's Real Food and Sojourner Farms Pet Products are some commercial raw meat diets available.

    Benefits

    • Raw meat advocates declare that the overall health of your dog will improve on a raw meat diet. Their coats get shinier, their breath smells better, and their excrement is smaller, drier and less odorous.

    Drawbacks

    • The main drawback is the possible lack of calcium which can lead to orthopedic problems, which can be resolved by including raw, calcium-rich vegetables or supplements. The other drawback is cost--feeding your dog real, quality meat can become almost as costly as feeding yourself.