Feeding Your Dog Raw Foods? Here's What To Avoid

Raw food diets for dogs are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners who are seeking to provide their furry companions with a diet that's closer to what their ancestors might have eaten in the wild.

While a raw food diet can offer benefits such as shinier coats, healthier skin, and improved dental health, it's crucial to approach this diet with caution and awareness. Not all raw foods are safe for dogs, and certain items should be avoided to ensure the health and well-being of your pet.

Here's What You Need To Avoid:

1. Bones That Can Splinter

While raw bones can be a good source of minerals and help maintain dental health, it's important to avoid bones that can easily splinter, such as cooked bones or small bones that might be swallowed whole.

Splintered bones can cause choking, intestinal blockages, or even tear the digestive tract. Instead, opt for larger raw bones your dog can chew on but not completely consume.

2. High-fat trimmings and Spoiled Meats

High-fat trimmings from meat can cause pancreatitis in dogs, while spoiled meats can contain harmful bacteria that could lead to food poisoning.

Always ensure that the meat you're feeding your dog is fresh and hasn't been sitting at room temperature for too long.

3. Certain Fruits and Vegetables

While many fruits and vegetables are healthy for dogs, some can be outright toxic. Avoid feeding your dog grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and large seeds or pits from fruits like peaches or plums. These foods can cause gastrointestinal upset or even more severe health issues like kidney failure.

4. Raw Eggs

Feeding raw eggs to dogs is a controversial topic. Some argue that raw eggs offer health benefits like a shiny coat but can also carry the risk of salmonella or E. coli infection.

Additionally, raw egg whites contain avidin, an enzyme that interferes with the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), which can lead to skin and coat problems. It's generally safer to avoid feeding raw eggs to dogs.

5. Chocolate and Caffeinated Items

Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine contain substances called methylxanthines, which are highly toxic to dogs and can cause a range of ill effects from vomiting and diarrhea to death. These should always be kept out of reach of pets.

6. Raw Fish

Certain types of raw fish such as salmon, trout, shad, or sturgeon can contain parasites that cause "fish disease" or "salmon poisoning disease." This condition is potentially fatal within two weeks if not treated. Cooking the fish will kill the parasite and protect your dog.

7. Raw Dough

Raw dough made with live yeast can be hazardous to dogs. If ingested, the dough can expand in your dog's stomach, causing bloating and severe pain. Furthermore, as the yeast ferments the dough to make it rise, it produces alcohol which can lead to alcohol poisoning.

A raw food diet can benefit your dog, but it's important to proceed with knowledge and caution. Always avoid the foods listed above and consult with a veterinarian before making changes to your dog's diet. They can provide guidance based on your dog's specific health needs and ensure that your pet is receiving a balanced diet.

Remember, each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Your dog's health and safety should always be your top priority

At Joyride Harness, we want every dog to be happy and healthy. For more tips and advice on taking the best care of your best friend, be sure to check out the Joyride Harness Blogs.