Dante Carrillo
The idea of feeding dogs a raw diet was proposed in 1993 by Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst, who suggested that adult dogs would thrive on an evolutionary diet based on what canines ate before they became domesticated: raw, meaty bones and vegetable scraps. Since then, the popularity of raw diets for dogs has been increasing, with a growing number of pet owners choosing to feed their dogs raw meat-based diets (RMBDs). Proponents of raw diets for dogs argue that it can help them live longer and lead to a healthier life. However, critics argue that the benefits of raw feeding over traditional pet food have not been proven and that raw diets can pose health risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Increased lifespan | Studies have shown that dogs on raw diets live up to 3 years longer than their kibble-fed counterparts. |
| Improved dental health | Raw diets can help fight plaque and tartar, leading to cleaner teeth and fresher breath. Bones can also stimulate the gums and act as a natural "floss." |
| Weight management | Raw diets are protein-rich and lack the high-carb fillers found in dry dog food, making it easier for dogs to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can reduce a dog's lifespan. |
| Reduced allergies | A raw diet makes it easier to avoid common allergens like beef or chicken, and some owners report improved allergy symptoms in their dogs. |
| Better digestion | Raw diets are more compatible with a dog's natural dietary needs, leading to fewer digestive problems and smaller, firmer bowel movements. |
| Improved coat and energy | Some owners report that their dogs have shinier coats and more energy when fed a raw diet. |
| Cost | Raw diets can be more expensive than traditional dog food, especially for larger dogs. |
| Safety | Raw diets may pose a higher risk of bacterial infections, especially for dogs with compromised immune systems or people in high-risk groups for infections in the household. |
| Preparation | Raw diets require more planning and preparation time, including safe defrosting and sanitizing of surfaces. |
| Nutritional balance | It can be challenging to ensure a raw diet is nutritionally complete and balanced, especially when prepared at home. Commercially prepared raw diets may be a safer option. |
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What You'll Learn
Raw diets improve dental health
Raw diets have been shown to improve dental health in dogs. They can help prevent dental disease and the need for costly and invasive surgery to remove plaque and tartar caused by processed foods.
The benefits of raw diets for dental health are attributed to the presence of natural enzymes and the absence of carbohydrates and starch. While dry dog food feeds the bacteria that live along a dog's gum line, creating plaque and contributing to periodontal disease, raw food contains enzymes that help fight plaque and tartar.
Raw meaty bones provide an outlet for a dog's natural chewing behaviour, stimulating the gums and scraping off plaque. They also help “floss” between the teeth and provide a suitable habitat for a healthy oral microbiome.
In addition, raw diets are easier for dogs to digest, helping them maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can shorten a dog's lifespan, so a raw diet may contribute to a longer life by helping dogs stay slim.
However, it is important to note that raw diets are not suitable for all dogs, especially those with suppressed immune systems or severe organ dysfunction. Some dogs may also require a cooked diet to manage specific health conditions. As such, it is always recommended to consult a veterinarian before making any significant changes to a dog's diet.
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They can reduce obesity
A raw food diet can help dogs maintain a healthy weight and reduce obesity. Kibble and dry dog food are packed with carbohydrates that dogs cannot properly digest, leading to obesity and related health issues such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Obese dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than dogs of a healthy weight.
Raw dog food is protein-rich and easier for dogs to digest, helping them feel fuller for longer and reducing their overall calorie intake. It also lacks the high-carb fillers found in processed dog food, which can cause unhealthy weight gain.
A raw diet can also improve gut health, leading to healthier skin and a shinier coat. It can also improve dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup, which is a common issue in dogs fed highly processed food.
To manage a dog's weight with a raw food diet, it is important to weigh meals accurately and stick to a caloric budget. A food scale is necessary for this. The recommended amount of raw food per day varies depending on the dog's weight and activity level. For example, a 25-pound dog should get 8-12 ounces of food per day, while a more active dog may need more than 3% of its weight in raw food per day.
Overall, a raw food diet can help reduce obesity in dogs by improving digestion, reducing carbohydrate intake, and promoting overall health and well-being.
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They can help dogs with allergies
A raw food diet for dogs has been a topic of debate among pet owners and veterinarians. While some people argue that it can help dogs with allergies, others caution that it may not be suitable for all dogs and can pose certain risks.
A raw diet typically consists of raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. Proponents of raw dog food diets argue that it is more compatible with a dog's natural dietary needs. They believe that dogs, being descended from wolves, are biologically designed to consume raw meat, organs, and bones rather than the carbohydrates found in processed kibble.
One of the benefits of a raw diet is that it can help dogs with allergies. Common food allergens like beef or chicken are easier to avoid in a raw diet because ingredients are more transparent and straightforward. For example, in dry food, "chicken fat" may be listed far down the ingredient list on food labeled with another protein source like lamb or duck. By contrast, a raw diet typically consists of whole food items, making it simpler to identify and exclude potential allergens.
Additionally, a raw diet can help dogs maintain a healthy weight. Carbohydrate-heavy kibble can spike dogs' blood sugar levels, leading to insulin dumps and subsequent fat storage. Obese dogs are more susceptible to obesity-related health issues like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, which can shorten their lifespan. On the other hand, protein-rich raw food is easier for dogs to digest and helps them feel fuller for longer, aiding in weight management.
However, it is important to note that raw diets may not be suitable for all dogs. Veterinarians caution against feeding raw food to dogs with suppressed immune systems due to significant diseases or medications. Dogs with advanced heart, kidney, or liver dysfunction, diabetes, or cancer should also avoid raw diets that may contain pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, puppies and dogs with pancreatitis or other digestive issues are not good candidates for a raw diet.
Before switching your dog to a raw diet, it is essential to consult a veterinarian. They can provide guidance on whether a raw diet is appropriate for your dog's specific needs and health status. Commercially prepared raw diets are generally recommended over homemade ones, as they adhere to certain hygiene standards and are designed to meet a dog's nutritional requirements.
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They may reduce degenerative diseases
A raw food diet for dogs has been a topic of debate for many years. Some people believe that it can help dogs live longer, while others argue that there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. According to a study conducted by Dr. Gérard Lippert, dogs fed a raw homemade diet had an average life expectancy of around three years longer than those fed a dry/kibble diet. This increase in lifespan is attributed to various factors, including the reduced incidence of obesity, a stronger immune system, and lower odds of developing degenerative diseases.
Raw diets typically contain raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. Proponents of raw diets argue that it is more compatible with a dog's natural dietary needs. Dogs have sharp teeth designed for ripping and tearing, making them well-suited for consuming fresh vegetables, muscle meat, offal, and raw meaty bones. By feeding dogs a raw diet, they experience fewer digestive problems and have firmer and less frequent bowel movements. Additionally, raw diets can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, leading to improved dental health.
One of the main benefits of a raw diet is its potential to reduce degenerative diseases in dogs. Dogs on a raw diet tend to age more slowly and have improved energy levels. The nutrients found in raw foods, such as vegetables, fruits, raw eggs, muscle meats, and raw meaty bones, contribute to overall health and slower aging. The high protein content in raw diets can also help dogs maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
However, it is important to note that raw diets may not be suitable for all dogs. Dogs with certain health conditions, such as pancreatitis, digestive issues, or immunosuppressive diseases, should consult with a veterinarian before switching to a raw diet. Additionally, some argue that the benefits of raw diets can also be achieved by feeding dogs a balanced and age-appropriate diet, whether it is raw or traditionally cooked. While raw diets have their advantages, it is always recommended to consult a veterinarian to determine the best diet for an individual dog's needs.
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Raw diets are more expensive
A raw food diet for dogs is more expensive than regular dog kibble. The cost of raw feeding depends on the ingredients used and how the food is prepared. The cost per pound is higher for premade raw food, which is about $4 per pound at a minimum. For a 50-60 lb dog, this would cost about $1,680 per year, which is $900 more per year than feeding kibble.
For raw meat diets, the cost of meat depends on the type and quality. Chicken or pork can cost between $1 to $3 per pound, while beef is rarely less than $3 per pound. Bones are an integral part of a raw diet, as they provide calcium. Organs, fruits, and vegetables can also be added to the diet, incurring additional costs.
Some dog owners opt for commercial raw diets, which can be frozen, freeze-dried, or dehydrated. These diets are more expensive due to additional processing. The costs can be substantial when feeding medium to large dogs. However, some owners believe that a raw diet is worth the extra cost, as it can provide health benefits and potentially extend their dog's lifespan.
Preparing homemade raw meals for dogs can be more cost-effective than commercial options. By shopping around and buying in bulk, owners can reduce the cost of raw feeding. However, it requires more time and effort for preparation and storage.
Overall, while a raw food diet for dogs can offer potential health benefits, it is more expensive than traditional kibble options, and the costs can add up, especially for larger dogs or those requiring specialized diets.
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Frequently asked questions
A raw food diet is more compatible with a dog's natural dietary needs. Dogs have sharp teeth designed for ripping and tearing meat, and their digestive systems are created to consume large amounts of protein in a short period. A raw food diet can lead to a healthier weight, a stronger immune system, and lower odds of developing diet-related health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Dogs on a raw food diet may also have shinier coats, more energy, and better dental health.
Raw food diets can be expensive, and preparing raw food at home can be risky as it may be nutritionally unbalanced. Raw food diets are also not appropriate for dogs with certain health conditions, such as severe liver or kidney dysfunction, or immune system issues.
Studies have shown that dogs who eat a raw diet can live up to three years longer than those fed a kibble diet.
