Arguments For and Against a Raw Food Diets for Dogs

It is becoming increasingly popular for people to feed their dogs a raw diet. This includes raw meat and bones, organs, and raw fruits and vegetables. ( Not all fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs. Be sure to find out. ) While there are many health benefits to eating raw foods, there are also drawbacks. Chicken is a major part of a dog’s raw diet.

The advantages of a raw food diet

First, you know what you are giving your dog. You make it yourself and can purchase it as needed. It’s convenient to customize. Then, another benefit of making your own food is that it is easy to make small adjustments. This diet can help prepare your dog for sporting events or fatten him up for the winter. Besides, there can be physical and mental benefits.

Boosts joint and bone health. There is no doubt that calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, glucosamine, collagen, and bone marrow are the best ways to enhance bone health.

Softer, glossier coats and better skin condition. A primal diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially salmon, chia seeds, and flaxseed.

Reduced stool volume. Higher digestibility results in lower food waste. Fewer stools are excreted because the food is absorbed and utilized more efficiently.

Mental benefits. It has been reported that this makes shy dogs more lively, aggressive dogs more individualistic, and grumpy dogs more playful. Just as human guts are closely tied to our emotions, so are dogs.

Disadvantages of Raw Food

Expensive. Twice daily raw meat, and even organic, grass-fed, free-range, ethically raised raw meat, these can be even more expensive.

Costs a lot of time. Essential is space sterilization and research to make sure your dog is getting the proper nutrition from his raw diet, which takes up most of your day.

Takes up a lot of freezer space. You will need more space than you have in the freezer of your refrigerator. This can be a challenge for many apartment dwellers.

Raw food diets do have some benefits, such as health benefits and knowing exactly what is in your pet’s diet. However, the cost may not be worth it in the end for individual situations. It may be that another flyball class would be a better option for you and you would continue to feed Fido dog food. Each pet parent must make their own choice based on their situation. It is just good to know there are options available.