8 Benefits of a Raw Food Diet for Dogs
The dog world is buzzing about the benefits of a raw food diet. Feeding your pet raw meat and edible bones and organs makes sense for a lot of reasons, plus dogs love it!
Whether you’re considering supplementing your dog’s diet with raw food, looking to make a complete transition, or are simply curious about what it’s all about, read on as we break down eight benefits of raw food for dogs.
Promotes joint and bone health
Make no bones about it – meaty, uncooked bones are excellent natural sources of many nutrients that promote joint and bone health, including:
- Calcium
- Collagen glucosamine
- Phosphorus
- Chondroitin
- Marrow
A balanced diet that contains raw bones, combined with regular exercise and key supplements with nutrients such as omega-3 and glucosamine sulfate, could help reduce your dog’s risk of arthritis or delay its course and severity.
Supports immune system
You’ve heard the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Well, eating healthy could help keep the vet away, too. High-quality, nutrient-dense foods such as raw food can naturally boost your dog’s immunity so that they’re better able to fight off infections.
For example, raw meat is packed with protein, an essential nutrient critical for organ and tissue health, as well as immunity. The protein in raw meat is easily digestible, and that can help your dog use the protein’s amino acids – the building blocks of proteins – more efficiently.
A natural toothbrush
Chewing on meaty bones promotes good dental health. The intense gnawing mimics flossing and helps prevent the build-up of plaque which if left untreated, could lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay.
Healthy skin and shiny coat
Sure, you want your dog to look great for all those picture-perfect social posts. But the condition of your pup’s skin and coat is not only about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of their overall health. High-quality raw meats are good sources of nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids that promote a healthy skin and shiny coat, which can be especially beneficial for pups with dry and flaky skin or dull fur.
Reduced risk of allergies
Typical commercial dog foods contain preservatives, additives, and by-products that may cause a variety of allergic reactions from gastrointestinal issues to itchy skin. Raw dog food has fewer or no preservatives and additives, plus it’s rich in nutrients that have anti-inflammatory properties which may reduce the risk of allergies.
Increased muscle tone
Raw dog meat is a source of high-quality, low-fat protein that supports muscle repair and growth. But that’s not the only benefit. The actual way your dog consumes raw food can also help build their muscles. They’ll get a workout with every meal as they use their jaw, shoulders, neck, and back muscles to shred and tear at the meat.
Satisfies their natural instincts
Deep inside that dog that watches TV with you sprawled out on your best couch are some characteristics and instincts of their undomesticated canine ancestors. Dogs really respond to the textures and tastes of raw meat because that’s what dogs eat in the wild.
Less poop
Here’s a benefit that both you and your pup may appreciate – dogs fed a raw diet may have fewer stools. The high amounts of fillers and carbs in most kibble may not be fully absorbed and digested by your dog…hence, more stool. Raw food has a high nutritional value and is highly digestible so there’s more nutrient absorption which results in less fecal matter. Another bonus? It’s less smelly, too. Sounds like a win-win for you and your dog.
Learn more about the benefits of a raw food diet for your dog. Book a consultation with a certified dog nutrition specialist.
Want to start exploring a raw dog food diet for your dog? Anita’s Pure Nutrition For Dogs can help. Whether you want to enhance your pet’s current diet or make a complete transition to raw food, our certified dog nutrition specialist can answer your questions and create a plan to meet your dog’s nutritional needs and preferences.
Our team has spent a lifetime helping dogs and their owners live their healthiest, happiest lives together. Leverage our 35+ years of experience working with all types of dogs, from house pets to show and working dogs, and discover how high-quality raw food can be a healthier alternative to the modern-day canine diet. Shop our selection of raw meat meals, treats, meal toppers, and bones, or book your consultation with our canine nutrition specialist today.
The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice from a qualified veterinary nutritionist. Always seek the advice of your pet's vet or a qualified veterinary nutritionist with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, diet, or treatment and before undertaking a new dietary or health care regimen for your pet, and never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.