The Pros and Cons of Raw Diets for Dogs

If the adage is true—we are what we eat—then we must pick the best meals for our good dogs.

Choosing the right diet for your pet is perhaps one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner.  Raw diets for dogs, which typically include uncooked meat, bones, organs, and occasionally fruits and vegetables, have gained popularity for their potential health benefits. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of any nutritional alterations when determining what’s best for your furry friend. Selecting a high-quality, balanced commercial dog food may provide a more convenient yet similarly beneficial solution.

Pros of a raw diet for dogs include:

• Shinier Coats and Healthier Skin: Many dog owners report that raw diets improve coat and skin health. The fatty acids in raw meats, combined with the absence of fillers found in many, many kibbles on the market, often lead to shinier, softer fur and fewer skin issues.
• Higher Energy Levels: Dogs on raw diets often display increased energy and vitality. Why? The elevated nutrient density and high protein content of these foods fuels active dogs and can be particularly beneficial for working breeds.
• Cleaner Teeth and Fresher Breath: Chewing raw meaty bones can help reduce plaque buildup on your dog’s chompers, improving oral hygiene and freshening breath.
• Improved Digestion: Raw diets may also contribute to easier digestion for some dogs, with smaller, firmer stools being a common outcome. Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies may benefit from the elimination of processed ingredients.

The potential challenges of a raw diet are:

• Nutritional Imbalance: Raw diets require careful planning and execution to ensure they deliver all essential nutrients for your pets. That being said, working closely with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist can help mitigate this concern.
• Potential for Bacterial Contamination: Raw meats may carry bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, posing health risks to both pets and humans. However, sourcing high-quality ingredients and practicing optimally safe food handling reduces this risk significantly.
• Bone Safety: While bones can and do support your dog’s dental health, they can also present choking hazards or cause injuries if not properly selected. Always supervise your dog and choose appropriate bone sizes for their breed and size.

What to Look for in a Balanced Commercial Dog Food

For many pet owners, high-quality commercial dog foods provide a perfect balance of nutrition, safety, and convenience. Dogs still share dietary traits with their wild ancestors, whose diets were high in protein and healthy fats, with minimal carbohydrates. When buying commercially produced foods for our pets, it’s important to keep this legacy in mind.

Here’s what to prioritize when choosing a commercial dog food:

• Prioritize Ancestral Nutrition: Dogs instinctively gravitate toward a diet that mirrors ancestral needs. Look for foods that emphasize high protein and good-quality fats to align with natural dietary preferences.
• Beware of Low-Quality Ingredients: Many commercial dog foods use fillers and pro-inflammatory fats to fill bags and cut costs. It’s important to also avoid options that contain seed oils like canola, sunflower, or safflower oil, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and other health issues.
• Focus on High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for foods with named protein sources (e.g., chicken, beef, or fish) and fats from natural sources like fish oil or chicken fat. Low carbohydrate content from wholesome sources, such as sweet potatoes, is also ideal.
• Select Well-Balanced Nutrition: Choose brands that ensure complete and balanced nutrition, providing all the essential nutrients your dog needs for a healthy, active life.

How Four Paws Inn Supports Your Dog’s Nutrition

At Four Paws Inn, we prioritize your dog’s health and happiness by offering nutritious meals during boarding. While we recommend that owners bring their dog’s regular food to maintain dietary consistency, we also provide high-quality, well-balanced commercial dog food at no extra charge. This ensures that every boarding dog receives the nutrition they need to stay healthy and energized.

In addition to excellent nutrition, Four Paws Inn offers thoughtfully designed facilities, a caring staff, and a comfortable environment that feels like a home away from home. From meals to amenities, we strive to provide a safe, enjoyable stay for every dog in our care.

While raw diets for dogs offer potential benefits like shinier coats, higher energy levels, and improved digestion, they also come with some challenges and safety concerns. For many pet owners, a high-quality, balanced, commercial dog food may provide an easier, safer alternative that meets all of your dog’s dietary needs. At Four Paws Inn, we’re committed to supporting your dog’s health and well-being through exceptional nutrition and compassionate care during their stay.