What Is The Best Raw Food For Dogs?
Your four-legged friend has a primal instinct to eat meat, so it only makes sense that you’d feed him something both healthy and delicious. When it comes to choosing the perfect food for your pooch, it can be difficult to know which is the best raw food for dogs. Check out this handy guide that will help you learn more about a raw diet for dogs and which foods are the healthiest and best for their well-being.
Understanding Raw Food for Dogs
Before you decide which kinds of raw dog food you should feed your pooch, it’s important to understand what kind of items you can give them. Things like organ and muscle meats are ideal since they provide a wide range of health benefits.
Other foods include whole or ground bone and raw eggs. Dogs can eat some forms of fresh fruit and vegetables including broccoli, celery, carrots, spinach, and apples.
Keep dairy to a minimum, and only plain yogurt is recommended. When you feed your dog raw food, they’ll get a myriad of health-based benefits like a shinier coat and healthy skin.
Other benefits of feeding your dog raw food include better dental health and an increase in energy. However, before you determine whether your dog should be on a raw food diet, you need to know the proper way to feed them safely.
Processed or pre-packaged traditional dog food does have some positive aspects, but it also may contain added chemicals. With packaged dog food, feeding your dog is easy, but it may not give him all the nutrients he needs.
Dry food can go bad over time when exposed to air, causing the food to turn or become rancid. With raw food, you always know exactly what you’re feeding your dog. It’s also always fresh and gives you better control over what your dog is eating on a daily basis.
Commercially Made Raw Dog Food
If you want to give your dog raw food but don’t have time to prepare it, there are plenty of commercial raw food items available. This food uses fresh ingredients that are not processed.
Fresh food provides your dog with a higher amount of nutrients. It’s important to pay close attention to the labels so you can be sure the ingredients contain what your dog needs.
Older and sick dogs should avoid all raw food. This type of food contains pathogens that can harm immunocompromised dogs. Make sure that the raw food you choose has no preservatives or any artificial flavors or colors. You can also choose to have fresh dog food delivery for even more convenience. Check any commercially made raw dog food for protein and fat levels. The amount of fat should be low and protein should be high. Like raw meat, fruits, and veggies, keep pre-made or commercial raw dog food refrigerated. Make sure you never feed expired food to your dog.
The Best Raw Food for Dogs
If you decide to make raw dog food yourself, there are plenty of excellent options available. Each item you feed your dog contains various nutrients that will ensure your pooch stays happy and healthy.
Here are a few examples of some of the best foods you can feed your dog:
Meat
Meats should comprise at least half of your dog’s diet, but you need to limit the fat content. Lean skinless meats are best. For poultry, dark meat is best since it’s naturally lower in fat.
Bones
Raw, meaty bones are a great addition to your dog’s diet. These should make up about one-third to one-half of their diet. Never give cooked bones to your dog.
Boneless meat and fish
Red and organ meats, like hearts, are lean and affordable choices. Fish provides a good source of vitamin D for your dog. If your dog won’t eat fish, you should supplement their diet with some form of vitamin D. Good examples of fish to give your dog includes salmon, canned fish with bones, and sardines packed in water. You can give fish and boneless meat to your dog daily in small amounts.
Eggs and dairy
Eggs are highly nutritious for dogs. Those weighing around 20 pounds or more can have one egg per day. Give less to smaller-sized dogs. For dairy, plain yogurt is a good option, as well as ricotta or cottage cheese. Try to limit other forms of cheese since they’re commonly high in fat content.
Fruits and vegetables
This food can give your dog excellent digestive benefits. Fruits and veggies also contain antioxidants. Give your dog vegetables and fruits that are deeply colored, like sweet potatoes and blueberries. Both fruits and vegetables offer a wide range of health benefits to your dog’s well-being.
Other Considerations
Before you feed your dog any form of raw food, consult with your veterinarian. Start small, supplementing their normal diet with small servings of different raw foods.
You may need to try a few different items one at a time until you can determine which foods your dog can tolerate. For example, starchy vegetables contain high levels of carbohydrates which are not recommended for overweight dogs.
Substitute fatty or high-carbohydrate foods with lean meats and raw vegetables, like leafy greens. Puree raw veggies in a food processor to make them easier to digest. You can use whole raw vegetables as treats, and they are an excellent way to keep your dog’s teeth clean. You should only give them to your dog occasionally.
Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy with Raw Food
Once you adjust your diet using the best raw food for dogs, your four-legged friend will live a happier, healthier life. When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you come up with a good diet plan.
From meats and bones to vegetables or fish, there are plenty of options available to ensure your dog stays healthy for years to come.
Check out this website to learn more about fresh food for dogs to give your best friend the best life possible.