Dogs can digest raw meat, but that doesn’t mean they should eat it. When we talk about raw meat, we are also talking about the risk that it may contain bacteria such as Salmonella. It is not only harmful to dogs but also to humans.
Dog owners become very interested and passionate when discussing their dog’s diet. As dogs are like our children, we want to give them everything that is best for their health. Or it is known that iron health is based on a correct and complete diet.
For several years now, veterinarians and canine nutritionists in Western countries have been arguing over a new type of dog’s diet: raw food. A lot of veterinary associations, and, of course, commercial dry food producers oppose this idea as it poses risks to both the dog’s and the owner’s health.
On the other hand, the proponents of this diet claim that it is close to that of the wolf; is natural, and offers more satisfaction to the animal. On both sides, studies have been done to support their opinion, but so far no definite conclusion has been reached.
Until this dispute is clarified at a high level, we offer you an objective point of view on the benefits and risks of adopting such a diet for your dog.
CONTENT:
Risks of a raw meat diet
- Risk of bacterial contamination (Salmonella, Escherichia coli, etc.): a large percentage of raw meat can be contaminated with bacterial species that can be harmful to the dog, but also to the owner. Sensitive dogs may suffer from diarrhea or other gastrointestinal infections. Bacteria will then be removed in the feces and there is a risk that they will be dispersed by the animal around the house, when they sit on the couch, for example, endangering people. However, this risk also exists when we use raw meat to cook our food, if we do not heat process the meat or if we do not wash our hands.
- Nutritional imbalance: commercial dry food is perfectly balanced with the nutritional needs of the dog, a criterion that is more difficult to meet when preparing food at home. If we deprive the dog for a long time of certain nutritional principles, there will be deficiencies and undesirable effects on health. That is why it is recommended to consult a canine nutritionist for a complete diet.
- The danger of suffocation is when the animal drowns with a bone. Bones can also rupture into sharp splinters that damage the intestines and lead to serious injuries and internal bleeding.
- preparing food is more time-consuming than throwing beans in a bowl. For a busy person who can’t even cook for himself, feeding the dog will be a daily problem.
- Raw food is more expensive than processed food.
- not suitable for dogs with low or convalescent immunity.
Switching to a raw meat diet is a huge step for both the dog and the owner. Undoubtedly, raw meat gives the dog more pleasure and is healthier than processed meat, but the risk of a nutritional imbalance is high.
The benefit of a raw meat diet
- Good digestion: the dog’s digestive tract is thus still shaped to process and transport raw meat efficiently. Raw foods pass through the intestines easily.
- Fewer feces and not so bad-smelling: digestion is more efficient; excreted matter is smaller.
- Increased palatability: the dog will have greater taste satisfaction.
- Control of ingredients: preparing food at home there is control over the quality and freshness of the ingredients. Foods that cause dog allergies can also be avoided.
- Without preservatives, additives, and other chemicals that are usually found in dry food.
- A natural diet similar to that of wild canids (wolves). In fact, even today sled dogs or racing greyhounds are fed exclusively on raw meat, and their performance is amazing.
- Often, sick dogs or those with allergies are recommended a homemade diet by a veterinarian for a while, and if raw food is good for these sensitive dogs, then why shouldn’t it be good for healthy dogs?
- Increased energy levels and improved mood.
- Better oral health: clean and healthy teeth and gums.
- Glossier and more beautiful fur.
- Low risk of obesity due to lack of cereals.
- Is better accepted by dogs, even by the pretentious.
