It’s a question that has been debated by pet owners for years – does feeding your dog raw meat makes them more aggressive? Some people swear by the benefits of a raw diet, while others believe it can lead to dangerous behavior problems. So what’s the truth?
Table of contents
Does raw meat make dogs aggressive?
The simple answer is no – raw meat does not make dogs aggressive. In fact, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that feeding your dog a raw diet will make them more aggressive.
However, it’s important to note that there are some other potential risks associated with feeding your dog raw meat, such as bacteria contamination and choking hazards.
Where does the myth originate from?
One of the most common myths about raw diets is that they contain too much protein, which can lead to aggression. However, this is not supported by any scientific evidence.
Another potential explanation for the myth is that some people believe that the way dogs eat raw meat – by tearing it apart with their teeth – is aggressive behavior. However, this is simply how dogs eat all types of food, not just raw meat.
So if you’re considering switching your dog to a raw diet, there’s no need to worry about them becoming more aggressive.
What are the benefits of feeding your dog raw meat?
According to the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association), a raw meat diet for dogs has many potential benefits, including:
- Improved coat and skin
- Elimination of bad odors
- Improvement in energy, behavior, and immunity
- A reduction in medical conditions
Although people may anecdotally report that their pets seem to be healthier after switching to a raw meat diet, there has not yet been any scientific evaluation of these claims.
What are the cons of feeding your dog raw meat?
Although many people believe that raw meat is the best option for their dogs, the FDA and many veterinarians caution against it.
There are potential risks associated with feeding your dog raw meat, such as:
- Bacteria contamination
- Choking hazards
- Unbalanced diet
- Harmful parasites
Do we recommend feeding your dog raw meat?
Feeding your dog raw meat is a very controversial topic, and there are pros and cons to both sides.
We recommend talking to your veterinarian about the best diet for your dog, as they will be able to give you specific advice based on your pet’s individual needs.
If you do decide to feed your dog raw meat, it’s important to take precautions to minimize the risks associated with doing so.
Do your research
Before you switch your dog to a raw meat diet, it’s important to do your research and talk to your veterinarian to make sure it’s the right decision for your pet.
Additional supplements
Dogs on a raw meat diet may need additional supplements to make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need. We recommend the following:
- Vitamin E
- Probiotics
- Zinc
- Fish oil
Storage
Raw meat must be stored properly to prevent contamination. We recommend storing it in the freezer until you’re ready to use it, and thawing it in the refrigerator just before feeding.
Be careful with bones
One of the most common dangers associated with feeding dogs raw meat is choking on bones. To avoid this, make sure you only feed your dog boneless meat. Never feed your dog cooked bones as they can splinter and cause harm.
Avoid cross-contamination
Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning in both humans and animals. To avoid cross-contamination, wash all surfaces and utensils that come into contact with raw meat.
Watch for signs of illness
If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or health after switching to a raw diet, contact your veterinarian immediately. Some signs that something may be wrong include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, and excessive thirst or urination.
FAQ
What is the best diet for my dog?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best diet for your dog will depend on their individual needs. However, many experts agree that a raw meat diet may be beneficial for some dogs.
Is it better to give my dog cooked meat?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as some experts believe raw meat is best while others recommend cooked meat. However, when you cook meat, be careful for the bones. When cooking meat bones can splinter and cause harm.
What should I do if I notice my dog is sick after switching to a raw meat diet?
If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or health after switching to a raw diet, contact your veterinarian immediately. Some signs that something may be wrong include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss,
Are there any risks by feeding your dog raw fish?
Just like meat, fish can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning in both humans and animals. Fish bones are also a choking hazard. To avoid any risks, make sure you thoroughly cook fish before feeding it to your dog and remove all bones.
Final thoughts – Does raw meat make dogs aggressive?
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that raw meat makes dogs aggressive. However, there are potential risks associated with feeding your dog raw meat, such as bacteria contamination and choking hazards. If you do decide to feed your dog raw meat, it’s important to take precautions to minimize these risks.
