Humans are constantly looking for ways to eat a more balanced diet, and dog owners have started questioning whether they should take the same precautions for their pups.
As a result, many pet owners today have adopted raw and all-natural dog food to support their dog's health.
But is a raw diet really healthy for dogs? Or are there potential drawbacks to this type of diet? Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of a raw food diet as well as some supplements and probiotics designed to support an overall balanced meal for your pooch, whether you decide to go natural or stick with the kibble.
What Does a Raw Diet Consist Of?
A raw diet may mean different things to different pet owners, but this type of diet usually consists of fruit, organ meat, veggies, raw eggs, and other grain-free ingredients. The original raw diet was called the "BARF diet," which stands for bones and raw food or biologically appropriate raw food diet. This diet was created based on the idea that dogs are biologically designed to eat raw, natural foods and that feeding them a diet closer to what they would eat in the wild would improve their health and longevity.
The main ingredients in this homemade dog food were muscle meat like beef, lamb, or fish, as well as raw bones, organ meat, and other animal parts. Fruits, veggies, probiotics, and essential fatty acids also played a role.
Proponents of the BARF diet claim that feeding your dog raw food can improve their digestion, give them a shiny coat, boost their energy levels, and support their overall health and well-being. But this diet is not without controversy. Let's explore some potential pros and cons of a raw food diet for your pooch.
The Pros And Cons of a Raw Food Diet for Dogs
Pros
Healthier skin and Shinier Coat
Your skin often reflects your overall health. So it stands to be true that the healthier you eat, the healthier your skin will be. The same is true for dogs. Feeding your dog high-quality, balanced meals (instead of pre-made food full of fillers and preservatives) will make your dog's coat feel smoother and shinier, and they also have fewer chances of developing ticks and fleas.
More Control Over Ingredients
Raw feedings give you more control over the quality of ingredients in your pet food. Raw pet food usually entails home preparation; however, many trusted pet stores, such as Barking Good, sell all-natural and preservative-free, freeze-dried meals today.
When you prepare it yourself, you know the ingredients included; you can ensure that whatever goes in your dog's stomach is safe and healthy. This natural diet may help lessen the risk of indigestion, allergies, and other digestive problems associated with the chemicals usually included in commercial dog foods.
Aspects of Dog Nutrition That You Can Control With a Raw Food Diet:
- Higher protein sources;
- More natural fat intake;
- No preservatives
- Lower carbohydrates.
Battle Against Common Health Problems
- Some of the health benefits of a raw food diet may include:
- Decreased chances of obesity/malnutrition;
- Higher levels of energy;
- Better digestive process; and
- Cleaner teeth.
Cons
Inconsistent Nutrients
Never make the mistake of following another dog's diet and applying it to yours. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for feeding dogs, as one breed has different needs from another.
You should consult your veterinarian first regarding what diet best suits the needs of your fur baby's breed. What works for your dogs may not work for others.
Before becoming a raw food feeder, you should check with your veterinarian to learn what food is best for your dog and what nutrients they need. It can be challenging to balance nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins without the guidance of someone trained in dog nutrition.
You can even ask your vet for additional supplements as a part of your all-natural raw dog food diet, such as probiotics that can improve their immune system. Therefore, you can tweak and plan their diet based on your pup's nutritional and growth needs.
Raw meat may have harmful pathogens such as E.coli and salmonella
Meat is generally meant to be cooked to ensure it is free of harmful bacteria that can be fatal for your dogs. However, raw meat is still fit for consumption if prepared with proper sanitary measures.
Many dog nutritionists suggest making raw meatballs mixed with small amounts of honey for its antibacterial properties to combat possible harmful bacteria. Be sure to purchase raw meat from a butcher you trust to safeguard your pet's health.
Raw vegetables can be hard to digest for some dogs
Like humans, dogs also need vegetables for a healthy, balanced diet. Pet parents who feed their pups raw food may try to mildly cook veggies for digestive purposes before incorporating them into their diet.
The small bones can potentially become choking hazards
When incorporating meaty bones into your natural and raw dog food, please consult with your veterinarian first as to what size and bone parts are advisable for them. As you prepare their food yourself, you must be proactive to prevent any possible harmful effects such as intestinal blockages, blockage of airways, and choking.
Time-consuming and expensive
Pet owners buy commercial dog food for its convenience. All you have to do is open the packet and pour it into their bowl, and they have a meal. With raw dog food, you have to be very hands-on with the preparation, and it can be expensive, too, as you have to buy ingredients such as ground beef or ground pork, bones, honey, and even vegetables.
If you are a busy pet parent and do not have enough time to prepare three meals a day, then chances are you may not have enough time to prepare food for your dog.
A small amount of scientific research to support the benefits
If you're thinking about switching your dog to a raw food diet, it's worth knowing that much of the available information about its benefits comes from other pet owners who have already tried this type of diet. While their experiences can be helpful, it's important to remember that the insight and advice they have given may not apply to every dog.
To get a clearer picture, it's a good idea to look for reliable scientific studies conducted by trusted institutions. You can also seek advice from veterinarians who rely on evidence-based practices. They can provide you with up-to-date information and guidance based on solid research, ensuring the well-being of your furry friend.
Through careful consideration and attentive monitoring of your dog's health during any diet transition process, you can make decisions that suit your dog's individual dietary requirements.
So Should You Feed Your Dog a Raw Food Diet?
The answer is... it depends!
These pros and cons may help you decide which direction to choose but always include your vet in your final decision. They will help guide you to the right diet for your pup.
Learn more about how doggy probiotics can play a role in a balanced diet, raw or not!