Raw Feeding Dogs (Pros, Cons and Protocols)

Introduction

Raw feeding is gaining lot of popularity as pet owners are more aware in regard to the nutrition of their dogs. Proponents of the diet argue that it replicates what dogs ate in the wild thus causing shinier coats, more efficient digestion, and more energy. Is raw feeding safe though? Which are the best practices to adopt? In this ultimate guide we are going to discuss:

• What is raw feeding of dogs?
• Pros of eating raw
• Risks and concerns to take note of
• Good practice during the transition to safety
• Popular pitfalls to avoid

So, let’s see.

What Is Raw Foods Feeding Dogs?

Raw feeding means dogs are being fed uncooked natural food similar to that of their wild ancestors. These most frequently used methods are:

1. BARF Diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) -This diet is composed of raw meat, bone, organs, vegetables and fruits.
2. Prey Model Diet- It focuses on whole prey animals (meat, bones and organs) without addition of the plant material.
3. Commercial Raw Food -Packaged raw meals in frozen or freeze-dried categories.

A raw diet is normally stomachable by encompassing:

• A raw-food diet usually contains:
• Muscle meat (chickens, beefs, lamb)
• Raw bones (sources of calcium and tooth health)
• Internal organs (liver, kidney as source of vitamins)
• Vegetables & fruits (moderate intake to get antioxidant as well as fiber)

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Pros of Raw Feeding of Dogs

1. Improved Digestion

The digestive tracts of dogs are shorter with the ability to digest raw meat. The owners record low incidence of bloating, firmer stool and reduced gas on changing a raw diet.

2. Better Skin & Coat

Raw meat has natural oils and omega fatty acids, which enhance a shinier fur and fewer skin allergies.

3. Improved Oral Health

Raw bones are good to chew on, since pet is able to remove much of plaque and tartar, leading to firm teeth and gums.

4. Lean Muscle & Extra Energy

Good protein helps the muscle growth and long-lasting energy among active dogs.

5. Less Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Most commercial kibbles are filled with allergic agents and fillers. Raw food dispenses with these allergens.

Risks and Concerns of Raw Foods

Although there are advantages to raw feeding there are also risks:

1. Bacteria Contamination (Salmonella, E. coli)

Raw meat may have disease-causing bacteria, which can be a danger to the dog and even the human health.

Solution: Keep hygiene and clean hands and wipe surfaces

2. Nutritional Imbalance

Raw diet may be unbalanced and produce a lack of calcium, vitamins, or mineral elements.

The solution is to use a vet-approved recipe or pre-packaged raw meals.

3. Bone Choking or intestinal damage

Bones soften during cooking, however, bones which are too tough may block off as well as fracture teeth which are in raw in nature.

Solution: Soft, chewable bones (e.g. chicken necks) can be used with supervision of the chewing.

4. Increase Price & Preparation Time

Raw feeding is sometimes cheaper and sometimes costly than kibble as well as time consuming.

The solution is to purchase high-volume, pre-prepare, or combine raw with high-quality kibble.

Best Raw Feeding Practices

1. Transition Gradually

First, introduce 10 percent of raw food into your dog diet and gradually build up over 1-2 weeks so that the dog does not experience digestive upsets.

2. Use the 80-10-10 Rule (A BARF Diet)

• 80 Percent Muscle Meat
• 10% Edible Bones

3. Add Supplements, as required

There are some dogs who might require:

• Fish oil (omega-3s)

• Probiotics (to take care of gut health)
• Vitamin E (to boost my immunity)

4. Rotational Protein Source

• Keep nutritional gaps at bay: Rotate chicken, beef, lamb and fish.

5. Safe food storage

• Preserve raw meat by placing in the freezer until you need to use them.
• Defrost in the refrigerator (not in the room).
• Throw away food that is not consumed after 30 minutes.

The most usual Errors to be evaded

• Feeding on Meat and none of its organs or bones: Causes calcium deficiency.
• Donation of Cooked Bones: This can splintered and result into internal injuries.
• Disregard of Hygiene: exposes one to bacterial infections.
• Missing Vet checkups: Blood tests every now and then keep away deficiency.

Conclusion

Raw food can be extremely healthy, and the health rewards are impressive, though the feeding also must be planned and hygienic. When thinking of switching, your vet should be contacted, particularly in the case of puppies, older, and sickly dogs.

To get more tips to feeding dogs, go to PetsRearing.com