While raw meat proponents cite natural benefits, most vets and health organizations recommend cooked meat for dogs due to significant risks of bacterial contamination (Salmonella, E. coli) and parasites in raw meat, which threaten both pets and humans, especially those with weak immune systems. Cooked meat eliminates these dangers and is easier to digest for some dogs, though you must avoid toxic additions like onions and remove all cooked bones.
The AVMA recognizes public interest in feeding raw diets to dogs and cats. However, the AVMA discourages feeding any raw or undercooked animal-sourced protein (e.g., meat, poultry, fish, egg, milk*) to dogs and cats because of their risk to human and animal health.
It's difficult to say whether all dogs prefer raw meat over cooked meat, as each dog's preference may vary. However, many dogs enjoy the taste of raw meat.
Studies show cooked meats are generally selected first by dogs in taste trials. Cooking alters the meat (Maillard Reactions), making the meat tastier to them, as it does us.
Raw beef still contains the same proteins, vitamins and minerals that contribute to a dog's health and wellbeing as cooked meat does. However, vets generally recommend cooked beef as there are fewer risks of carrying harmful bacteria - not just for a dog's health but for dog-to-human contamination.
Three toxic types of meat for dogs include fatty, processed meats (like bacon, sausage, ham) due to salt/fat causing pancreatitis and sodium issues; seasoned meats with onions/garlic (allium) that damage red blood cells; and cooked bones, which splinter and cause internal damage or blockages, potentially requiring surgery. Raw meats can also carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli.
Raw food, especially meat, contains bacteria, parasites and other pathogens that would normally be killed during the cooking process. So feeding raw food brings extra risks, not just to your pet's health but also to other people in your household.
Vets generally don't recommend raw diets due to significant risks of pathogenic bacterial contamination (like Salmonella, E. coli) that harm pets and humans, the difficulty in ensuring a complete and balanced diet, and the danger of physical injuries from bones (fractures, blockages). The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) highlights these risks, noting bacteria can shed from pets and infect immunocompromised individuals, making proper hygiene crucial but challenging.
Among the three (chicken, turkey, and beef), the most balanced meat is chicken — as it is high in protein but also low in fat which makes it the healthiest type of meat to serve canines.
Some raw-fed dogs even manage to surpass their breed's expected lifespan by several years, remaining active and healthy well into their senior years. For us, the conclusion is obvious: the life expectancy of our dogs is directly related to the quality of their food.
The 90/10 rule for dogs means 90% of their daily calories should come from a complete, balanced dog food, while only 10% should come from treats, training rewards, and any extra human foods or toppers, preventing nutritional imbalances and obesity. This guideline ensures essential vitamins and minerals are met through their main diet, keeping treats as occasional indulgences rather than dietary staples.
Generally, dogs dislike hugs, not being allowed to sniff, a lack of routine, and more. Even the most laid-back dog will hate some of the things we humans do—if they tolerate it, it's just because they love you or don't want to be dominant.
Leaning into you
Leaning against your leg (or whatever part is closest to them) is a big sign that they love you. If you find your dog leaning against you, take a moment to pet him and show him some extra affection.
Safety for the owners
Meat (especially ground meat) and eggs for animal or human consumption carry microorganisms (2,15). Raw pet food poses similar risks for pathogenic bacteria as do raw meat and eggs for humans (2,15).
Dogs can technically eat raw meat, but it comes with risks. Most veterinarians don't recommend it. Raw meat can carry harmful bacteria and parasites that can make dogs (and humans) sick. A balanced diet is important for your dog's health, and feeding raw meat alone isn't enough.
Feeding dogs a diet made with natural, real ingredients, such as beef, chicken, lamb, peas, spinach, carrots, and blueberries, can do wonders for their overall well-being — promoting heart health, increasing energy level, making coats shiny and breath smell better, improving eyesight, and even impacting a dog's stool.
Feeding your dog fatty foods, like hot dogs, bacon, ribs, or fried chicken, can upset your dog's stomach and cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can also lead to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas. Some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers, may be more prone to pancreatitis.
On top of this, fish is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Iodine, and Selenium - all key nutrients for long-term health. And because fish is generally easier to digest than chicken or beef, it's often the preferred option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Rice can be a beneficial and safe addition to your dog's diet when used appropriately. Whether dealing with digestive issues or simply diversifying your dog's diet, rice offers a good source of carbohydrates and can help keep your canine healthy.
Raw food diets can improve a dog's gut health, which is linked to better behavior. Nutrients in raw food may influence a dog's mood and energy levels. Chewing raw bones can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs. Switching to raw feeding might increase a dog's trainability and focus.
The worst dog foods often contain cheap fillers like corn, wheat, and soy; unspecified "meat meals" or by-products; excessive sugar; and artificial colors/preservatives, with brands like Kibbles 'n Bits, Beneful, Gravy Train, and some Purina/Iams varieties frequently cited for low nutritional quality and questionable ingredients. Focus on avoiding poor-quality protein sources (unspecified meat meals), fillers, artificial additives, and dangerous human foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol.
There's no single "number 1" healthiest dog food, as the best choice depends on your dog's age, breed, and health; however, look for foods meeting AAFCO standards (Association of American Feed Control Officials), with real meat as the first ingredient, and vet-recommended brands like Hill's Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Royal Canin are often cited for balanced nutrition. Freshly prepared or raw diets can also be healthy but carry risks, so always consult your vet.
Common negative impacts of raw-based diets are unbalanced nutrients, GI obstructions, and antibiotic resistance to pathogens from raw meat. One of the common issues with raw feeding is the nutritional balance of the diet.
Mostly kibble of various qualities. Since most farmers are also hunters and/or fishermen, their dog often gets to feast on the entrails of any wild game the farmer brings home. Entrails have a lot of very good nutrition, not the least of which is the partially digested plants that the game animal ate.
Yes, dogs can eat minced beef! Beef is an excellent source of protein for dogs and is a great way to get all of those essential amino acids and nutrients into their diet.