As pet owners, we are constantly seeking the best ways to ensure the well-being of our furry companions, but are raw meat diets the way to go?
Some believe that offering dogs a diet more closely aligned with their ancestral eating habits can promote optimal health and vitality.
However, this approach has sparked both enthusiasm and skepticism within the pet community.
Enthusiasts of the raw meat diet argue that it mirrors what wild canids consume in the wild.
This is inspired by the belief that dogs are evolutionarily designed for raw meat diets. Some pet owners believe that this kind of diet bolsters overall health.
In addition, it’s thought that a raw meat diet addresses issues such as allergies, digestive problems, and coat quality, among others.
That said, while raw feeding may seem like a promising choice, the practice is not without its challenges and controversy.
In this blog post, we will delve into the potential health benefits and risks associated with raw meat diets for dogs. Read more about the pros, cons, and what the experts have to say.
Organizations Concerned About Feeding Raw Meat Diets to Dogs
Organizations such as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have expressed concerns about feeding dogs raw meat-based diets, popularly known as “barf diets.”
While some pet owners argue for the natural and evolutionary aspects of this diet, reputable organizations stress the potential health risks.
Whether preparing a family meal or pet food, bacteria is always an issue. Safe kitchen food-handling practices for raw animal products apply. For example, a dog bowl full of raw hamburger raises several concerns that need to be considered. Can children reach the dog food? Does the uneaten raw hamburger go back in the refrigerator? Is the bowl ever washed and cleaned? How often? What about what is spilled on the floor?
Association of American Feed Control Officials, Raw Foods
Bacterial contamination is the main concern.
One of the main concerns raised by these organizations is the potential for bacterial contamination present in uncooked meat.
Raw meat can harbor harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These pose serious health risks to both pets and their pet parents.
Bacterial contamination puts dogs and humans at risk. The reason for this is that these pathogens can be shed in the pet’s feces. That makes it easily transmitted to humans during handling.
Eye-Opening Studies on Raw Meat Diets for Dogs
A recent study conducted by animal nutritionists at a leading veterinary research institution sought to explore the impact of raw meat diets on canine health.
The study involved a diverse group of dogs fed exclusively on raw diets comprising muscle meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables.
Over the course of the study, researchers closely monitored the dogs’ health and collected samples to analyze for bacterial presence.
The results of the study were eye-opening.
While some dogs appeared to thrive on raw meat diets, others experienced significant health problems. The most notable concerns were related to bacterial contamination.
Dangerous Pathogens in Raw Meat
In fact, a concerning percentage of dogs tested positive for various pathogens. This included dogs that showed no signs of illness.
Additionally, several dogs displayed gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea and vomiting, which are commonly associated with bacterial infections.
Furthermore, the study highlighted potential nutritional imbalances in raw meat diets.
This isn’t to say that some pet parents aren’t doing it right. Many pet parents meticulously plan and create balanced, homemade diets for their dogs.
Some owners, however, may not realize or fully understand the need to ensure a balance of all vital nutrients.
Get the Facts! Raw Pet Food Diets Can Be Dangerous to You and Your Pet
Proper food handling is vital
The implications of these findings underscore the importance of disease control and proper handling of raw meat-based diets.
Animal nutritionists and veterinarians strongly advise pet parents to exercise caution and adopt strict hygiene practices when handling raw food.
This will go a long way toward reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
7 Potential Pros of Raw Meat Diets for Dogs
Feeding raw meat to dogs, also known as raw feeding or the barf diet (biologically appropriate raw food), has gained popularity among some pet owners.
While there are both advocates and critics of this feeding approach, here are seven potential pros to providing raw meat to dogs:
Nutritional Variety
Raw meat diets often include a diverse array of ingredients, such as muscle meat, organs, bones, and sometimes vegetables.
This variety can offer dogs a broad spectrum of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
High-Quality Protein
Raw meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle development, maintenance, and overall growth in dogs.
Natural Enzymes
Raw meat contains natural enzymes that may aid in digestion and nutrient absorption for some dogs.
Healthy Skin and Coat
Advocates of raw feeding believe that the diet’s high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and essential oils can lead to healthier skin and shinier coats in dogs.
Improved Dental Health
Chewing on raw bones may help clean dogs’ teeth and gums, potentially reducing the buildup of plaque and tartar.
Potential Allergy Management
Some pet owners claim that transitioning their dogs to raw meat diets has helped alleviate allergies and food sensitivities.
Closer to the ancestral diet
There’s an argument among some that raw meat diets more closely mimic the diets of dogs’ wild ancestors. The theory is that this approach aligns with their evolutionary needs and instincts.
The question is whether there is any truth to this theory. While it’s true that canines of the wild ate a raw meat diet, it can be argued that they didn’t necessarily live long and healthy lives.
They ate that way because they had no other choice. It was a matter of survival. Surely, we want our domesticated pets to thrive, not just “survive”.
Organizations Concerned About Feeding Raw Meat Diets to Dogs
Organizations such as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have expressed concerns about feeding dogs raw meat-based diets, popularly known as “barf diets.”
While of some pet owners argue for the natural and evolutionary aspects of this diet, reputable organizations stress the potential health risks.
Bacterial contamination is the main concern
One of the main concerns raised by these organizations is the potential for bacterial contamination present in uncooked meat.
Raw meat can harbor harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These pose serious health risks to both pets and their pet parents.
Bacterial contamination puts dogs and humans at risk. The reason for this is because these pathogens can be shed in the pet’s feces. That makes it easily transmitted to humans during handling.
Eye Opening Studies on Raw Meat Diets for Dogs
A recent study conducted by animal nutritionists at a leading veterinary research institution sought to explore the impact of raw meat diets on canine health.
The study involved a diverse group of dogs fed exclusively on raw diets comprising muscle meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables.
Over the course of the study, researchers closely monitored the dogs’ health and collected samples to analyze for bacterial presence.
The results of the study were eye-opening.
While some dogs appeared to thrive on raw meat diets, others experienced significant health issues. The most notable concerns were related to bacterial contamination.
In fact, a concerning percentage of dogs tested positive for various pathogens. This included dogs that showed no signs of illness.
Bacterial Infections in Dogs
Additionally, several dogs displayed gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea and vomiting, which are commonly associated with bacterial infections.
Furthermore, the study highlighted potential nutritional imbalances in raw meat diets.
Proper food handling is vital
The implications of these findings underscore the importance of disease control and proper handling of raw meat-based diets.
Animal nutritionists and veterinarians strongly advise pet parents to exercise caution and adopt strict hygiene practices when handling raw food.
This will go a long way in reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
7 Potential Pros of Raw Meat Diets for Dogs
Feeding raw meat to dogs, also known as raw feeding or the barf diet (biologically appropriate raw food), has gained popularity among some pet owners.
While there are both advocates and critics of this feeding approach, here are seven potential pros of providing raw meat to dogs:
Nutritional Variety
Raw meat diets often include a diverse array of ingredients, such as muscle meat, organs, bones, and sometimes vegetables.
This variety can offer dogs a broad spectrum of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
High-Quality Protein
Raw meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle development, maintenance, and overall growth in dogs.
Natural Enzymes
Raw meat contains natural enzymes that may aid in digestion and nutrient absorption for some dogs.
Healthy Skin and Coat
Advocates of raw feeding believe that the diet’s high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and essential oils can lead to healthier skin and shinier coats in dogs.
Improved Dental Health
Chewing on certain types of raw bones may help clean dogs’ teeth and gums. This could potentially reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar. The downside to this would be the potential for choking or bowel obstruction in some cases.
It’s important to ask a veterinarian about bone safety before feeding to dogs.
Potential Allergy Management
Some pet owners claim that transitioning their dogs to raw meat diets has helped alleviate allergies and food sensitivities.
Closer to Ancestral Diet
Some pet owners argue that raw meat diets more closely mimic the diets of dogs’ wild ancestors. The theory is that this approach aligns with their evolutionary needs and instincts.
It’s important to note that while these potential benefits are cited by raw feeding enthusiasts, individual dogs may respond differently to this diet.
Always consult with a qualified veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet to ensure it is appropriate and balanced for their specific needs.
7 Potential Cons of Feeding Raw Meat Diets to Dogs
Feeding dogs a raw meat diet, while popular among some pet owners, comes with potential drawbacks and risks. Here are seven cons to consider before deciding to feed your dog a raw meat diet:
Bacterial Contamination
Raw meat can harbor harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which may pose serious health risks to both dogs and their human caregivers
Nutritional Deficiencies
Preparing a nutritionally balanced raw meat diet can be challenging, and improper formulation may result in nutrient deficiencies or excesses, potentially impacting the dog’s long-term health.
Risk of Obstruction and Choking
Consuming raw bones can lead to the risk of choking or gastrointestinal obstructions if the bones splinter or become lodged in the dog’s throat or digestive tract.
Human Health Concerns
Handling raw meat for dog diets increases the likelihood of human exposure (including children) to pathogenic bacteria. The risk is especially high during preparation and cleanup.
Zoonotic Diseases and Parasites
Zoonotic diseases are infections that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Feeding dogs raw meat increases the risk of potential zoonotic disease transmission to pet owners.
Parasites that can be transmitted through raw meat diets include tapeworms.
Cost
Preparing a balanced raw meat diet can be expensive. According to Integricare Animal Health, raw food costs anywhere from $2 to $8 per day for a 50 pound dog. In comparison, kibble would cost about $1 per day.
Time Consuming
Adequately preparing a raw meat diet for dogs is time-consuming. It requires careful planning, sourcing of quality ingredients, and proper storage to ensure safety.
The Type of Meat in a Raw Meat-based Diet
In raw dog food diets, several types of meat are commonly used to provide the necessary nutrients for canine nutrition. Many raw feeders prefer muscle meat (beef, chicken, and turkey) along with organ meat.
Chicken is a popular choice due to its availability, affordability, and relatively lean meat. It provides a good source of protein and essential amino acids.
Beef
Beef is another widely used meat in raw dog food diets. It is rich in protein, iron, zinc, and essential fatty acids.
Turkey
Turkey is often included as an alternative to chicken. It offers a similar nutrient profile and can be a suitable protein source for dogs.
Lamb
Lamb is known for its unique flavor and provides essential nutrients like protein and vitamin B12.
Venison
Venison, sourced from deer, is a novel protein option that some pet owners choose for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities to more common meats.
Pork
Pork is used less frequently than some other meats due to concerns about certain parasites. However, when sourced and prepared carefully, it can be part of a balanced raw diet.
Fish
Fish, such as salmon or mackerel, is included in some raw dog food diets to provide omega-3 fatty acids, which can benefit skin, coat, and joint health.
Where to get raw meat diet for dogs
There are several places where you can obtain raw meat diets for dogs.
Here are some options for acquiring raw meat diets for dogs:
Pet Specialty Stores
Many pet specialty stores and raw feeding supply shops carry commercially prepared raw food diets for dogs. These diets often come in convenient formats like frozen patties, nuggets, or freeze-dried options.
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Raw Food Co-ops
In some areas, raw food co-ops or buying groups are formed by pet owners to purchase raw ingredients in bulk directly from farms or suppliers.
Participating in such co-ops can often be cost-effective and provide access to a variety of raw meat options.
Online Retailers
Numerous online retailers offer a wide selection of commercially prepared raw food diets for dogs.
When ordering online, be sure to choose reputable sellers and consider factors such as shipping and storage requirements.
Local Butchers
Some local butchers or meat suppliers may offer pet-friendly cuts or offal at affordable prices. Ensure the meat is fit for canine consumption and free from additives or seasonings.
Raw Pet Food Delivery Service
There are delivery services specifically catering to raw pet food, which can deliver pre-portioned and balanced raw meals to your doorstep.
Prepare it yourself
If you have access to high-quality raw meat and organs, you can prepare a raw meat diet for your dog at home. However, this requires thorough research and knowledge of canine nutrition to ensure a balanced diet.
Is Raw Meat a Better Diet Choice for Dogs?
The debate over whether raw meat diets are better than commercial dry dog foods is a complex and controversial topic.
Both types of diets have their advantages and disadvantages, and the “better” option depends on various factors, including the individual dog’s health, lifestyle, and specific dietary needs.
Advantages of Commercial Dry Dog Foods
There are many advantages to choosing commercial, dry dog food for your pet. These include:
Convenience
Dry dog food is easy to store, serve, and travel with, providing convenience for pet owners.
Nutritional Consistency
Reputable commercial dog foods are formulated to meet specific nutritional standards, providing consistent nutrient profiles with each batch.
Long Shelf Life
Dry dog food has a longer shelf life compared to raw meat, reducing the risk of spoilage and bacterial contamination.
Variety
Dry dog food (and wet dog food) is formulated to meet a variety of needs. These days, it’s easy to find healthy food options to meet the needs of all breeds. This includes dog breeds at every stage of life.
Disadvantages of Commercial Dry Dog Foods
The disadvantages listed below can be remedied by choosing prescription diets recommended by a licensed veterinarian.
Processing and Preservatives
Some commercial dry dog foods contain additives, preservatives, and fillers that may not be ideal for every dog’s health.
Lower Moisture Content
Dry dog food typically has a lower moisture content than raw meat, which may not be suitable for dogs who need additional hydration.
Always seek the advice of a veterinarian before changing your dog to a raw meat diet.
Summary
Ultimately, the choice between a raw meat diet and commercial dry dog food should be made based on careful consideration, consultation with a veterinarian, and a thorough understanding of your dog’s specific nutritional requirements.
Some dogs may thrive on a raw meat diet, while others may do well on a balanced commercial dog food.
Always prioritize your dog’s health and well-being when making dietary decisions.
Sources
Raw beef bones as chewing items to reduce dental calculus in Beagle dogs
FR Marx, GS Machado, JG Pezzali, CS Marcolla, AM Kessler, Ø Ahlstrøm, L Trevizan
First published: 26 January 2016
https://doi.org/10.1111/avj.12394
Groat, E. F., et al. “UK Dogs Eating Raw Meat Diets Have Higher Risk of Salmonella and Antimicrobial‐resistant Escherichia Coli Faecal Carriage.” PubMed Central (PMC), 21 Feb. 2022, https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13488.
“Raw Dog Food: Dietary Concerns, Benefits, and Risks.” WebMD, 17 Mar. 2022, www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/features/raw-dog-food-dietary-concerns-benefits-and-risks.
“Raw Pet Food Diets Can Be Dangerous to You and Your Pet.” Get The Facts! Raw Pet Food Diets Can Be Dangerous to You and Your Pet | FDA, 22 Feb. 2018, www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/get-facts-raw-pet-food-diets-can-be-dangerous-you-and-your-pet.
Robins, Mary. “Raw Dog Food May Be Fueling Rise in Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria.” American Kennel Club, www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/raw-dog-food-rise-in-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria. Accessed 3 Aug. 2023.