Is Raw Meat Good for My German Shepherd Dog?

Whether or not a raw meat diet is good for German Shepherds continues to be a matter of some debate. The raw meat diet consists of feeding your dog raw meaty bones similar to what the dog's ancestors would have eaten in the wild. However, this position has its opponents and few scientific studies exist that give sufficient weight to one side or the other.

  1. Health Problems among German Shepherds

    • German Shepherds are known for their strength, intelligence and loyalty, but they are prone to certain illnesses--the result of inbreeding at the beginning of the breed's history. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, where loose joints lead to arthritis in the dog's later years. Other health problems include various types of dermatitis and skin allergies. As large dogs, German Shepherds are also prone to bloat, where the stomach twists and traps stomach contents and gases. Bloat is an emergency and must be treated by a veterinarian.

    Anecdotal Support for Raw Meat

    • Anecdotal evidence from breeders and German Shepherd rescue societies suggests that "Prey model raw feeding" decreases the likelihood and severity of several common health problems among the breed. Puppies raised on raw food grow more slowly, decreasing joint strain from rapid growth. Bloat appears to be less common as well, and the dog's general health improves: fewer ear infections, itchy skin problems and allergies.

    Studies

    • An article by Lisa M. Freeman DVM, PhD, and Kathryn E. Michel, DVM, MS published in a 2001 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that the raw meat diet results in the certain vitamin deficiencies. However, other veterinarians dispute this study's evidence, since it's possible for animals to get a variety of important nutrients through feeding off bones and several types of meats and animal organs. Any one considering switching to raw-feeding their German Shepherd should research how to provide a well-rounded diet with necessary vitamins.

    Other Concerns

    • Some veterinarians also expressed concerns about feeding bones to dogs. Cooked bones splinter easily and can harm the dog; however, raw bones do not splinter as easily and do not often hurt animals. Another concern is that raw meat may carry bacteria like E. coli or salmonella. Though an animal may not get sick from these, they can pass the bacteria to humans or other animals.