When it comes to taking care of your dog, you want to do everything right. You make sure they get exercise. You shower them with affection. You take them to the vet regularly. And you spend lots of time investigating what the right food is for your furry friend.
And there are LOTS of choices out there. Will you be using kibble? Canned? Or maybe you’re considering a raw food diet for your dog?
Raw food diets for dogs are definitely growing in popularity, but as with all food that you choose for your pet, you want to be informed and make the best possible choice. You want to think about your pet’s:
- Health – Does she have special food requirements?
- Level of activity - Is your dog a high-energy, extremely active breed, or are they your best buddy when it comes to time on the couch?
- Age and size – Do you have a puppy or a senior pet? Are they small like a Pomeranian or big like a Great Dane?
- Allergies – Is your dog allergic to anything, such as eggs or wheat?
Plus, it’s still got to taste good – or your pet is not going to eat it.
The Raw Food Diet usually consists of organ meats, muscle meat, whole or ground bone, eggs, fresh fruit and vegetables (that are safe for your pets), and dairy – for example, yogurt.
Pet owners who have switched their dogs to a raw food diet have noted (according to Pets WebMD):
- Shinier coats
- Healthier skin
- Cleaner teeth
- Higher energy levels
- Smaller stools
And, while all of these things are great, you want to keep in mind that you will need to handle raw meat. There is a chance for your dog to choke on bones. And, if you are not careful to create a balanced raw food diet for your dog, they could suffer from nutritional deficiencies.
If you’re considering making a change to a raw food diet for your pet, talk with your veterinarian. They can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your pet and help you choose the necessary foods to keep your pet happy and healthy.
References:
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/raw-dog-food-dietary-concerns-benefits-and-risks#1
https://www.outsideonline.com/2299531/pet-food-poison-how-switch-your-dog-raw-food
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