How to Raw Feed Your Dog

Sled dogs have long been fed a raw-food diet.

Raw feeding has long been the trend among sled dogs and racing greyhounds. In 1993, a veterinarian from Australia by the name of Ian Billinghurst suggested that a raw food diet may be good for companion animals as well. This subject is not without controversy, however, so be sure to check with your vet before switching your dog to a raw food diet.

Things You'll Need

• Meat
• Freezer Space
• Dogs

Instructions

1. 

   Racing greyhounds are also feed raw meat.

   Find a good source of inexpensive meat. Raw fed dogs can eat any type of meat or fish fit for human consumption. This includes chicken, beef, pork, liver, fish as well as organ meats (liver and kidneys). Dogs on a raw-food diet also eat eggs, vegetables, fruit and yogurt.

2. 

   There are health concerns for dogs being fed raw food. Bacteria in raw meat can make dogs and humans very sick.

   Divide up the meat into meal-sized portions for your dog. According to BARFWORLD, "Adult dogs can be fed between 2-3 percent of the their body weight." Barfworld recommends "starting with 1/2 pound of food per 25 lbs of body weight daily and make adjustments according to your dog's age and activity. We also suggest that the daily ration be split to feed morning and night. Remember that a healthy dog is not overweight." The instructions are different for puppies, who should get 10 percent of their body weight in food divided into three meals a day.

3. 

   There is no scientific proof that raw food is better for dogs; health risks are evident.

   Purchase a ready-made raw food meal. Commercially prepared raw diets such as Evo are available from your retailer. Some pet food retailers have a freezer of raw meats in their stores. You can also order raw food from the Internet.

4. 

   Your dog may become sick from parasites in the raw meat; take care to watch for changes in his personality.

   Check your dog's stool frequently for worms and watch his health overall. Bacteria in the raw food can make your dog very sick, to be aware of any changes in his personality, activity level or appetite. Supplement your dog's meat diet with leafy green vegetables and fruits.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy meat in bulk and freeze the meat in meal-sized portions to keep costs down and make meal time easier.

• Do your research before deciding on putting your dog on a raw food diet. The Delta Society does not allow their Pet Partner therapy pets to eat a raw food diet because of the potential dangers to humans. The threat from bacteria, e-coli and salmonella is very real.

References

• Barfworld: Diet
• Pets Webmd: Raw Dog Food Diet

Resources

• Evo: Grain Free Diet
• Dogtime: Raw Food Diet Dangers
• Delta Society: Raw Food Policy