Is a Raw Diet For Dogs Really Better?

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     Is a raw diet for dogs really the answer to concerns over commercial dog food? Ask yourself this: What does a dog in the wild eat? Of course, domesticated animals tend to live longer than their counterparts in the wild. But this is mainly due to the fact that in the wild animals have to compete with others for a sometimes very limited supply of food.

Here's an even more important consideration when considering a raw diet for dogs: dogs in the wild, at least what researcher have been able to find, do not suffer from chronic disease like so many domesticated dogs do. Dogs in the wild don't get diabetes or arthritis. This would lead you to believe that it is what we feed our pet that is responsible for their poor health in quality of life in their later years.

We conclude that a raw diet for dogs is indeed much better than commercial dog food. However, there would not be a whole lot of difference if you were to cook that food as well. The key is that the ingredients are fresh and as close to organic as possible.

Please remember, though, that there are some loop holes in the law that allows food producers to slap the 'organic' label on food that really isn't organic. Do your homework.

Benefits Of Raw Diets For Dogs

Many dog owners have noticed considerable improvements in various aspects of their dog's health when fed a raw diet. For example, dull coats and skin were observed to become more shiny and healthy looking. The notorious bad breath that dogs was cleared up and became fresh and clean-smelling. Allergy symptoms were seen to decline or completely disappear. Better digestion and healthier looking stools have also been observed in dogs fed a raw diet.

So what kinds of food are part of a good raw diet for dogs? Any part of a chicken is good for your dog. However, do not give your dog chicken bones. These can splinter and harm the stomach and intestines. Turkey, hens and quail are also good. Like chicken, you should remove the bones from these animals before giving them to your dog.

Beef and buffalo are also good parts of a raw diet for dogs. Feel free to include the bones. They are ok for the dog to eat and digest. However, DO NOT give your dog cooked beef or buffalo bones. These can splinter and harm your dog.

A raw diet for dogs is not complete with just meat and protein. Your dog will be nutrient deficient if you don't also feed him or her vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Experiment with various fruits, vegetables and grains until you find all the ones your dog enjoys eating.

The Dangers Of A Raw Diet For Dogs

If your dog will not eat fruit, vegetables and grains, then you must supplement their raw meat diet with a healthy commercial dog food that doesn't use meat by-products, but rather real meat. Your dog will not get the proper nutrients they need to be healthy on meat alone.

Of course, cooked meats are a good alternative to a raw diet for dogs. The damage commercial dog food does to our pets is not in the cooking, it's the heavy processing. Lightly cooking meats before feeding them to your pet is ok.

Raw diets are appropriate for puppies, as well. However, be careful giving bones to a puppy. They can't deal with bones like an adult dog can. Raw diets are gaining popularity with pet owners who are concerned with the harm commercial dog food can do to pets. Raw diets allow your dog to live a happier and healthier life.