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The Raw Food Diet for Dogs: Benefits and Controversies

Dogs > Diet and Nutrition > The Raw Food Diet for Dogs: Benefits and Controversies

also see Dog Diet Raw

also see Raw Meat Diet For Dogs

The raw food diet for dogs, once called BARF for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food, is a controversial diet, with veterinarians, dog care professionals, breeders and dog owners as fans and critics. With a large number of commercial dog food recalls in recent years, many owners are looking to alternative diets for their pets, including the BARF option. There are controversies, however.

Ingredients of Raw Food Diet

The raw food diet contains a large amount of protein from raw meats, raw bones, eggs, dairy products, supplements, fruits and vegetables, and eliminates processed and commercial foods which usually have grains as their main ingredients.

Ingredients in the raw food diet include:

Whole raw chicken, quail, fish, lamb, rabbit, pork and other animal bones and meat
Raw bones or ground bones
Organ meat, also known as offal, like liver, kidneys, and hearts
Starchy vegetables like carrots, spinach, broccoli and peppers, which are often shredded or ground
Fruits like whole apples, oranges and pears
Whole raw eggs
Yogurt, cottage cheese, shredded cheese

These are only some of the foods found in the raw diet. Several companies offer pre-made foods for a raw diet that include these ingredients, or owners can make the meals ahead of time at home and frozen.

Benefits to Raw Food Diet

Offers a natural and nutritionally-balanced diet based on what dog's have eaten for thousands of years
Healthier coat and skin
Better digestion and stool
More energy and a healthier immune system
Cleaner teeth and gums and fresher breath
Improved behavior and disposition
Offers variety and options for your dog
Weight control, both in gaining weight or losing excess fat
Carbohydrates are often the cause of allergy and digestive problems; carbs make up a small part of the raw food diet as opposed to commercial foods, which feature carbs heavily as ingredients
Free of preservatives, sweeteners, additives and fillers found in commercial food
Controversies of Diet for Dogs
Benefits are not scientifically proven, but only based on owner's testimonials
Potential for bacteria, including e. coli and salmonella
Bones may cause choking or puncture a dog's gastrointestinal tract
Can be costly to buy ingredients depending on the price of local foods
Time consuming
Meals must be supervised to prevent choking on any bones
Must stay consistent with the raw diet and have prepared meals ready

The debates over the raw food diet for dogs remains controversial and has many passionate proponents and opponents. Even if owners choose not to feed their dog along BARF guidelines, it is important to think about what ingredients are in your dog's diet and how healthy and balanced nutrition can improve your dog's life.

also see 5 Dog and Cat Food Diet Tips From Veterinarians

also see Choosing Dog Food: Protein-Rich Products

also see Senior Dog Food: A Look at Age-Specific Formulas

also see Recalled Dog Food and Treats 2