Key Takeaways
- Can dogs eat raw meat? Generally they can, but there are some things to consider.🥩+🐕=❔
- People have been feeding their dogs raw meat for centuries, with some believing it to be healthier than processed food.
- There are both benefits and risks associated with feeding dogs raw meat. Benefits include that it is more digestible and nutritious than cooked food, while risks include the potential for contamination with bacteria.
- If you choose to feed your dog raw meat, there are certain types that are safer than others.
- It is also important to handle and store the raw meat properly in order to avoid contamination.
- If your dog has eaten raw meat, watch them closely for signs of illness and consult a vet if necessary.
Benefits of Raw Meat for Dogs
Can dogs eat raw meat? The answer is unfortunately not that simple! Some people who feed their dogs raw meat say that it’s healthier for their pets. Dogs have been eating raw meat since the beginning of time, and they are carnivorous animals by nature. That being said, there are other reasons why some pet owners choose to feed their dog raw dog food instead of processed pet food from bags or cans:
- Raw meat is more digestible than processed food.
- It contains enzymes that help dogs absorb nutrients better.
- Dogs who eat raw meat tend to have shinier coats and brighter eyes.
- Raw meat can help improve joint health in older dogs.
- Raw food is more natural and nutritious than cooked foods because it contains no added preservatives or fillers like sugar, salt, flavorings etc. which may cause health issues such as diabetes type II when eaten over time.
Editor’s Note
There are also some financial benefits to feeding a dog a raw diet: it’s significantly cheaper than buying processed food.
Risks of Eating Raw Meat by Dogs
Of course, there are some risks associated with feeding your dog raw meat as well. Let’s take a closer look at those now:
- Raw meat can be contaminated with bacteria like E. coli or salmonella, which could make your dog sick.
- It could also make you sick if you’re not careful about handling and storing the raw meat.
- There is a risk of choking if your dog eats too much raw meat at once.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of raw meat, or they may develop digestive problems after eating it.

Types of Meat That Are Safe for Dogs
Can dogs eat raw meat? Depends on what meat we’re talking about. If you’re still interested in adding raw meat to your dog’s diet, there are plenty of safe options to choose from. Here are some types of meat that are safe to feed your dog raw:
- 🐑 lamb (except the liver);
- 🐔 chicken (without the skin or bones);
- 🦃 turkey (without the skin or bones);
- 🐟 fish (fresh, not frozen; raw fish is a good source of protein and omega-fatty acids).
These meats are less likely to contain bacteria like Salmonella and E-coli and therefore safer to give your dog. No matter what meat you choose for your pet, remember to always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat, and keep it stored in a fridge or freezer, apart from other types of food.
Types of Meat That You Want to Avoid Serving Raw
So far, we’ve looked at the pros and cons of feeding your dog uncooked meat. Now let’s take a look at the different types of meat that you shouldn’t serve. Some dogs might have sensitive stomachs that can’t handle raw food, or they may be allergic to certain types of food like chicken, beef, or pork.
So, can dogs eat raw meat? It’s important to know what type of meal you’re serving your furry friend before giving them any type of raw food. Here are some types of meat that you should avoid serving your dog raw:
- 🍗 chicken (skin and bones are dangerous for dogs to eat);
- 🐄 beef (raw beef can contain harmful bacteria);
- 🐖 pork (may contain harmful parasites like trichinella spiralis, which can lead to trichinosis);
- ❄️ fish (frozen fish can be dangerous for dogs to eat).
Although technically not meat, it’s also worth to mention 🥚 raw eggs, as they may contain salmonella.
Can dogs eat raw chicken? Click for more info!

Pros & Cons of Raw Meat Dog Diet
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
better digestible | may be contaminated |
helps absorb nutrients | requires proper handling and storing |
makes dog’s coat shiny | risk of choking |
improves joint health | may lead to digestive problems |
more natural | not enjoyed by all dogs |
no preservatives and fillers | more expensive |
My Dog Ate Raw Meat! What Do I Do?
If your dog has eaten raw meat, it’s important to watch them closely for signs of illness. If they start vomiting, have diarrhea, or seem generally sick, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Until then, you can try feeding them small amounts of food like boiled chicken or rice every few hours. This will help settle their stomach and give them some much-needed nutrition while they’re recovering from eating raw meat. If the vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, take them to see a vet immediately!
The Raw Truth: Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat?
So, can dogs eat raw meat? The answer is yes, they can be a good addition to processed dog food and together create a balanced diet for your pup. But be sure to do your research first and know which types of meat are safe for them to eat. And always keep an eye out for signs of illness if your dog has eaten raw meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Ok for Dogs to Eat Raw Meat?
Yes, raw meat can be a good addition to processed dog food as long as you choose the right type of meat and handle it properly. Always wash your hands after handling raw meat, and keep it stored in a sealed container. Make sure to use meat specifically for dogs, and not scraps from your own meal.
What Raw Meat Can Dogs Eat Safely?
Raw meats that are safe for dogs to eat include chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. Certain types of meat should be avoided, such as beef and pork. These meats can contain parasites that can be harmful to your dog’s health. It is also important to avoid raw meat with a lot of fat since it can cause digestive issues for dogs.
Do Dogs Prefer Cooked or Raw Meat?
Some dogs may prefer the taste and texture of raw meat, while others may find it more palatable when cooked. Ultimately, there are benefits to both cooking and feeding raw meat, so you should choose whatever you feel best meets your pup’s needs.
How Often Should Dogs Eat Raw Meat?
Raw meat should be fed to your dog no more than twice a week. It is important to consult with your vet when introducing raw meat into your pup’s diet in order to make sure that it is being done properly and safely.
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