Raw diets for dogs have gained significant popularity in recent years, with many dog owners seeking alternative feeding options that mimic a dog’s ancestral diet. While a raw diet may offer certain benefits, it is crucial to understand the potential health risks involved for both your dog and your family. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of raw diets, explore the associated health risks, and provide valuable insights from a veterinarian’s perspective. By the end of this article, you will have a well-rounded understanding of the safety considerations surrounding a raw diet for your beloved canine companion.
The Raw Diet for Dogs: An Overview
Defining a raw diet and its components: A raw diet for dogs is a feeding approach that aims to replicate the natural diet of canines in the wild. It typically consists of uncooked, fresh, or minimally processed ingredients. The primary components of a raw diet include raw meat, bones, organs, fruits, vegetables, and sometimes supplements. The idea behind a raw diet is to provide dogs with a nutritionally balanced and species-appropriate meal.
Types of raw diets:
BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) and Prey Model:
BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food): BARF is a popular raw feeding model developed by Dr. Ian Billinghurst. It emphasises a balanced diet that includes a variety of raw meat, bones, organs, fruits, vegetables, and supplements. The BARF model focuses on providing a wide range of nutrients to support a dog’s overall health and well-being.
Prey Model: The Prey Model of raw feeding is based on the concept of feeding dogs whole prey items, similar to what their wild counterparts would consume. It typically includes raw meat, bones, and organs, without the addition of fruits, vegetables, or supplements. Proponents of the Prey Model believe that this approach closely mimics a dog’s evolutionary diet.
Is A Raw Diet More Biologically Appropriate?
In a word, no.
Ancestral diet? First let’s deal with the perceived wisdom your dog needs meat.
It is true our dogs evolved from wolves, but this happened at least 27,000 years ago (1), at much the same time we evolved from nomadic hunting and gathering to farming. Our dogs have evolved alongside us in remarkably similar ways, including a significant evolution in their diets. (2)
Amylase and Maltase. Two significant genetic differences between dogs and wolves.
Amylase, the gene we use to break down carbohydrates into usable nutrient and energy sources, super-evolved in our dogs. Your dog’s amylase gene is 2800% more active than a wolf’s. (3)
Your dog’s maltase gene also breaks down carbohydrates very differently to wolves. It functions similarly to herbivores, such as cows and rabbits, and omnivores, like mouse lemurs and rats, allowing dogs to thrive on a diet rich in starch, unlike wolves. (4)
Research shows us that preference for meat is not an innate behaviour for our dogs, but a learned one. (5)
The truth. Our dogs are omnivores not carnivores. Often referred to as ‘opportunivores’ – to describe a dog’s natural desire to eat whatever is available — plants as well as animals.
Don’t just take our word for it. Here is what manufacturers of meat-based dog food have to say on this (sometimes grudgingly!).
Purina HillsPet Harringtons Yarrah Petcurean Eukanuba Diamond Pet
The science of canine nutrition is continually evolving and we are at a point where it is not only considered biologically appropriate for dogs to consume increased levels of plant-based carbohydrates, but that vegan dog food is on balance the the safest, and healthiest diet for dogs according to extensive research conducted by Professor Dr. Andrew Knight MANZCVS, DipECAWBM (AWSEL), DipACAW, PhD, FRCVS, PHFEA
Health Risks of a Raw Diet for Dogs
Bacterial contamination and foodborne illnesses: One of the primary concerns associated with raw diets is the potential for bacterial contamination, leading to foodborne illnesses in dogs. Raw meat, bones, and organs can carry harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. These bacteria pose a risk not only to the dog consuming the raw diet but also to the humans who handle the food.
Understanding the risks of pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli: Salmonella and E. coli are commonly found in raw animal products and can cause severe illness in both dogs and humans. Dogs can become infected through direct consumption of contaminated raw food or by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. These bacteria can also be shed in the dog’s faeces, posing a risk of environmental contamination and increasing risks to humans.
Safe handling and storage practices to minimise contamination: To reduce the risks associated with bacterial contamination, it is essential to follow proper handling and storage practices when feeding a raw diet to dogs. This includes:
- Thoroughly washing hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw food.
- Keeping raw food separate from human food to prevent cross-contamination.
- Freezing raw meat for a specific duration to kill potential parasites.
- Properly cleaning and sanitising food bowls and other feeding equipment.
Safety of Vegan Diets vs. Raw Diets for Dogs
Given the significant potential for serious bacterial contamination that may eventuate from raw diets, and the very low toxicology likelihood that plant-based foods possess, feeding your dogs nutritionally complete and balanced vegan dog foods is a far safer, and healthier option for them.
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Zoonotic Diseases: Protecting Your Family’s Health
Can dogs transmit illnesses to humans through raw feeding? Yes, dogs can potentially transmit illnesses to humans through raw feeding, primarily due to the presence of bacteria and parasites in raw meat. Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Pathogens such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, and certain parasites like Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium can be present in raw food and can cause infections in humans who come into contact with contaminated surfaces or consume undercooked meat.
Preventive measures to minimise zoonotic disease risks: To minimise the risks of zoonotic diseases associated with raw feeding, it is important to take the following preventive measures:
- Use safe handling practices when preparing and serving raw food, such as using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat, and properly disinfecting surfaces.
- Avoid feeding raw food directly from your hand to reduce the risk of bacterial transfer.
- Store raw food securely to prevent access by other animals and to minimise the risk of cross-contamination in the refrigerator.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect food bowls, utensils, and feeding areas after each use.
- Educate family members, especially children, about proper hygiene practices and the potential risks associated with raw feeding.
Proper hygiene practices and handwashing: Proper hygiene practices are crucial in reducing the transmission of zoonotic diseases. After handling raw food or coming into contact with surfaces or objects that may be contaminated, it is important to:
- Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use hand sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not readily available.
- Avoid touching the face, mouth, or eyes before washing hands.
Keeping vulnerable individuals safe: Certain individuals, such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems, may be more susceptible to zoonotic diseases. It is important to take extra precautions to protect these vulnerable individuals. This may include:
- Restricting their direct contact with raw food or its handling.
- Ensuring they practice proper hand hygiene after interacting with pets or their food.
- Consulting with healthcare professionals for specific guidance tailored to the individual’s health condition.
It is interesting to note the precautions one needs to take when feeding dogs raw food when weighed against the absence of such precautions necessary when preparing and feeding a plant-based dog food, whether home cooked or commercially produced.
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Nutritional Considerations for a Balanced Raw Diet
Essential nutrients and their role in canine health: A balanced raw diet should provide all the essential nutrients necessary for a dog’s overall health and well-being. These include:
- Protein: Essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and various physiological functions.
- Fat: A source of energy, insulation, and essential fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- Carbohydrates: While not essential, carbohydrates can provide energy and fiber.
- Vitamins: Play a vital role in metabolic processes, immune function, and overall health.
- Minerals: Important for bone health, nerve function, and enzymatic activities.
Ensuring a balanced diet to avoid nutrient deficiencies: To avoid nutrient deficiencies, it is crucial to provide a variety of ingredients in a raw diet to ensure a balanced nutrient profile. This can be achieved by including a diverse range of meat sources, such as poultry, beef, and fish, as well as incorporating organ meats, fruits, and vegetables. It is important to note that the specific nutritional requirements may vary depending on the age, breed, and individual needs of the dog.
Consulting a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist: To ensure a properly balanced raw diet, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. These professionals can assess the dog’s unique nutritional needs, provide guidance on ingredient selection and portion sizes, and help tailor a raw diet plan that meets the dog’s specific requirements. Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary to address any nutrient imbalances or deficiencies that may arise.
The potential for nutrient deficiency, and risks to your dog’s health, are significant not least because it is well understood that nutrients can differ significantly between the same ingredients sourced from animals of the same species. This can arise from where they are farmed, how they are fed, age and many other factors.
By contrast a vet nutritionist developed and approved vegan dog food will provide nutritionally complete, and balanced, food for your dog without the health concern deficiencies bring.
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Potential Risks of Raw Bones in a Dog’s Diet
Dental health benefits of chewing bones: Chewing bones can provide several dental health benefits for dogs. The mechanical action of gnawing on bones helps remove plaque and tartar build-up, promotes healthy gums, and exercises the jaw muscles. Additionally, chewing bones can provide mental stimulation and help alleviate boredom in dogs.
Choking hazards and gastrointestinal obstructions: Despite the dental benefits, there are risks associated with feeding raw bones to dogs. One of the main concerns is the potential for choking or the formation of gastrointestinal obstructions. Bones can splinter or break into sharp fragments, which may pose a choking hazard if swallowed whole or cause tears or blockages in the digestive tract. Large, weight-bearing bones, such as beef femurs, can be particularly risky due to their hardness and potential for fractures.
Choosing appropriate bone types and sizes: To minimise the risks associated with raw bones, it is important to choose appropriate bone types and sizes for your dog. Select raw bones that are large enough to prevent the dog from swallowing them whole, yet not too small to be easily broken or swallowed. Weight-bearing bones should be avoided, and softer bones, such as raw chicken necks or wings, can be safer options. It is recommended to supervise your dog while they chew bones and promptly remove any small or broken pieces to prevent accidental ingestion.
The benefits of chewing bones can however be replicated with the multitude of dental chews available on the market today. These have been specifically developed to not only mimic the physiological benefits of a dog eating a bone but also provide scientifically proven oral and dental health benefits for your dog.
Raw Diet and Digestive Issues
Transitioning from a commercial diet to raw food: When transitioning a dog from a commercial diet to a raw diet, it is important to do so gradually. Abrupt changes in diet can disrupt the dog’s digestive system and lead to gastrointestinal upset. Start by introducing small amounts of raw food mixed with the dog’s regular diet and gradually increase the proportion of raw food over a period of 1 to 2 weeks. This gradual transition allows the dog’s digestive system to adapt to the new diet more effectively.
Common digestive challenges during the transition phase: During the transition to a raw diet, dogs may experience common digestive challenges. These can include temporary diarrhoea, soft stools, or constipation. These issues are usually a result of the dietary adjustment and the dog’s digestive system adapting to the new food. Most dogs will naturally adjust within a few days to a week. However, if the digestive issues persist or worsen, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Diarrhoea, constipation, and dietary intolerance: Diarrhoea can occur as a result of the change in diet, introducing new ingredients, or feeding inappropriate amounts of fat or bones. On the other hand, constipation can be caused by inadequate fibre intake or dehydration. Additionally, some dogs may have dietary intolerances or sensitivities to certain ingredients in the raw diet, such as specific proteins or vegetables. Monitoring the dog’s stool consistency, hydration levels, and overall well-being is important during the transition phase.
Gradual transition techniques and monitoring: To ease the transition and minimise digestive issues, consider the following techniques:
- Gradually increase the proportion of raw food while decreasing the amount of the previous diet.
- Introduce new protein sources and ingredients gradually, one at a time, to identify any potential sensitivities.
- Monitor the dog’s stool consistency, energy levels, and overall health during the transition period.
- Keep a journal to track any digestive issues, noting the specific ingredients or quantities that may have caused them.
- Seek guidance from a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist if the dog experiences prolonged or severe digestive issues during the transition.
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Monitoring Your Dog’s Health on a Raw Diet
Regular veterinary check-ups and blood work: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring a dog’s health on a raw diet. The veterinarian can assess the dog’s overall well-being, conduct physical examinations, and perform blood work to evaluate the dog’s nutritional status, organ function, and identify any potential deficiencies or health issues. These check-ups provide an opportunity to discuss the dog’s raw diet, make adjustments if necessary, and address any concerns.
Signs of nutritional deficiencies or health issues: While a properly balanced raw diet can meet a dog’s nutritional needs, monitoring for signs of nutritional deficiencies is important. Common signs of deficiencies include weight loss or poor weight gain, dull coat, brittle nails, dental problems, gastrointestinal disturbances, and changes in behaviour or energy levels. Additionally, it is essential to observe the dog’s overall health and watch for any indications of underlying health issues that may arise.
Adjusting the diet based on individual needs and feedback: Each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. It is important to monitor the dog’s response to the raw diet and make adjustments accordingly. If signs of nutritional deficiencies or health issues arise, consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. They can provide guidance on modifying the diet to better meet the dog’s specific requirements, whether it involves adjusting the ingredient proportions, introducing supplements, or making other necessary changes.
One of the major reasons for digestive upset dog’s experience with raw diets is allergenic. Meat, including lamb, beef, pork, chicken fish and rabbit, are in the top 10 allergens for dogs. This allergic response to food can contribute to IBD (irritable bowel disease) which can have a significant impact on your dog’s long term health.
Opting to feed your dog a balanced plant-based diet reduces the likelihood of any allergic response to their food, particularly if the food does not include wheat, soy or corn, which are also known, if rarer, allergens for dogs.
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Alternative Raw Diet Options
Commercially prepared raw diets and their safety standards: If preparing a raw diet at home seems daunting or time-consuming, commercially prepared raw diets can be a convenient alternative. These diets are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and often undergo rigorous safety standards and testing. Look for commercially prepared raw diets that are produced by reputable manufacturers, follow industry guidelines, and have quality control measures in place. Reading reviews and checking for certifications or associations such as AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) and FEDIAF (European Petfood) can help ensure the safety and quality of the chosen brand.
Freeze-dried and dehydrated raw food options: Freeze-dried and dehydrated raw food options offer a balance between convenience and nutritional value. These products are typically made from high-quality raw ingredients that are freeze-dried or dehydrated to preserve their nutrients. They can be rehydrated with water or served as is, providing a convenient and safe way to incorporate raw elements into a dog’s diet. As with any commercially prepared food, it is important to choose reputable brands and ensure that the product meets the necessary nutritional standards for a complete and balanced diet.
Whilst freezing foods inactivates bacteria, once the meat is thawed, bacteria can begin to reproduce again. This exposes our dogs, and families, to all of the bacterial and zoonotic risks outlined above.
Balancing convenience, safety, and nutritional value: When considering alternative raw diet options, it is crucial to balance convenience, safety, and nutritional value. While commercially prepared raw diets and freeze-dried/dehydrated raw foods offer convenience, it is important to assess their safety standards, ingredient quality, and nutritional completeness. Reading labels, understanding ingredient sourcing, and researching the reputation of the manufacturer are important steps in ensuring a high-quality alternative raw diet for your dog.
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Making an Informed Decision
Weighing the risks and benefits of a raw diet for dogs:
When considering a raw diet for your dog, it is crucial to carefully weigh the risks and benefits associated with this feeding approach. While raw diets can offer potential benefits such as improved coat condition, dental health, and increased nutrient bioavailability, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances. Assessing the individual needs and health status of your dog, as well as consulting with a veterinarian, can help you make an informed decision.
Consulting with a veterinarian for personalised guidance: Consulting with a veterinarian is an essential step in making an informed decision about a raw diet for your dog. Veterinarians have the expertise and knowledge to evaluate your dog’s specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. They can provide personalised guidance, offer recommendations on whether a raw diet is suitable for your dog, and help address any concerns or questions you may have. Working collaboratively with your veterinarian ensures that you receive tailored advice based on your dog’s unique circumstances.
Considering the specific needs and health conditions of your dog:
Every dog is an individual with unique nutritional requirements and health conditions. When contemplating a raw diet, it is important to consider the specific needs of your dog. Factors such as age, breed, activity level, reproductive status, and underlying health conditions should be taken into account. Some dogs may have specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities that need to be addressed. By considering these factors and working closely with your veterinarian, you can develop a raw diet plan that is tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
As dog food brands understand the impact of dog’s specific nutrient needs based on these factors, more are developing personalised nutrition and feeding plan options taking these factors into consideration.
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The Final Word of Feeding Dogs Raw Diets
The importance of informed decision-making: Making an informed decision about feeding your dog a raw diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being. By educating yourself about the potential risks and benefits, understanding the specific needs of your dog, and consulting with a veterinarian, you can make a decision that is based on knowledge and consideration.
Prioritising safety and the well-being of your dog and family: The safety and well-being of your dog and family should always be the top priority when considering a raw diet. While raw diets can offer potential benefits, it is essential to take proactive measures to minimise the risks associated with bacterial contamination and zoonotic diseases. Implementing safe handling and storage practices, practicing proper hygiene, and keeping vulnerable individuals safe are paramount.
Given the significant risks, both contamination and nutritional deficiency, associated with raw feeding your dog, is it worth it?
When one considers the alternatives available it would seem not.
A carefully formulated vegan dog food should be considered as the preferred option. Not only does it virtually eliminate bacterial risks associated with BARF and Prey raw diets, but also offers the significant health benefits the best fruit and vegetables provide our dogs.
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