More dog owners are switching to raw diets for their pets. Why? Because a diet of high-quality meat and bones mimics what our pets’ ancestors ate in the wild. Dog owners who have tried raw dog food with their four-legged companions attest to the many health benefits, from shinier coats to better digestion.
By feeding your pet raw dog food, you offer them a nutrient-dense diet that is more natural and less processed than commercial dog food. Those benefits are boosted when you entrust your dog’s health to food from farms that produce 100% grass-fed and pastured meat. Why not treat your dog to the same healthy food you eat?
At Acabonac Farms, we pride ourselves on making this healthy option for your pets more accessible than ever. With guidance from a leading pet nutrition expert, we bring the same high standards to creating high-quality food for dogs as we do for people. Our goal is simple: to create 100% complete raw dog food that is fresh and helps dogs thrive — healthy and happy.
In this article, we will explore some of the health benefits of putting your dog on a raw food diet, as well as safety considerations and tips to transition your dog to a raw diet.
Key Takeaways
- Raw dog food can provide many health benefits for dogs, including improved digestion, a healthier coat and skin, better teeth, increased energy levels and better weight management.
- Raw dog food diets also can help dogs avoid common allergens and help boost the immune system.
- Raw dog food made by farms that produce 100% grass-fed and pastured meat provides the healthiest, freshest and most nutrient-dense raw dog food.
- The highest quality raw dog food is available from Acabonac Farms. You can order our food delivered to you anywhere in the nation.
What is a Raw Diet for Dogs?
A raw diet for dogs consists of unprocessed ingredients like raw meat, bones, organs, fruits and vegetables. The idea is to replicate what dogs' ancestors ate in the wild. Dog owners who feed their dogs raw food believe it offers many benefits, such as improved digestion, shinier coats and better energy levels.
There are a variety of raw dog food diets. For example, the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet was popularized by Australian veterinarian Dr. Ian Billinghurst in the 1990s. He believes modern commercial dog food, especially kibble, is harmful to pets and lacks the essential nutrients that come from raw, whole foods. The Prey Model Raw diet is similar, but does not include fruits or vegetables.
Pet owners must take precautions when preparing and serving raw diets to dogs to avoid harmful bacteria. It’s also important to ensure dogs receive all the essential nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian is recommended.
Is it safe to feed raw meat to dogs?
Feeding raw meat to dogs can be safe if done properly. Dogs are naturally equipped to handle bacteria better than humans due to their shorter digestive tracts and higher stomach acidity. To minimize risks, it's essential to follow strict hygiene practices and ensure the diet is nutritionally balanced.
9 Health Benefits of a Raw Diet for Dogs
The following are some of the many benefits reported by dog owners who switch their dogs from processed commercial food to a raw food diet.
1. Improved digestion
A raw diet promotes better digestion because it contains natural enzymes that aid in breaking down food. Unlike processed dog food, which is harder for some dogs to digest, raw meals closely mimic what dogs consume in the wild. The higher moisture content in raw meats helps with hydration, easing digestion. This can lead to firmer stools and reduced bloating, making it easier for your dog’s body to absorb essential nutrients from food.
2. Healthier coat and skin
Raw dog food often contains higher levels of essential fatty acids, like omega-3s, which are found in abundance in fresh meats and fish. These fatty acids help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. With 100% grass-fed beef dog food, which contains more omega-3s compared to grain-fed beef, there are even greater benefits for your dog's coat. Grass-fed meats are also less likely to contain chemical additives, providing a more natural source of nutrition, which contributes to fewer skin irritations and a smoother, more lustrous coat.
3. Increased energy levels
Raw dog food provides a rich source of proteins and fats, which are essential for energy. Because the diet is more biologically appropriate, dogs can experience better muscle tone and higher energy levels. Grass-fed beef also boosts the benefits in this area, as it contains higher levels of CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), a type of fatty acid linked to improved metabolism and endurance.
4. Better dental health
Chewing raw bones, which are part of many raw diets, helps keep a dog’s teeth clean and gums healthy. The natural scraping action of chewing raw bones can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. By incorporating raw bones into their diet, dogs can maintain dental health more naturally than with processed food.
5. Weight management
The high protein content and lack of processed carbohydrates in raw diets can help dogs maintain lean muscle mass while burning fat more efficiently. Raw meals avoid fillers like grains, which are often found in commercial dog foods and can contribute to weight gain.
6. Strengthened immune system
Raw dog food diets avoid the common allergens like grains and artificial additives found in commercial dog food. Dogs on raw diets can experience relief from chronic itching and hot spots. Acabonac Farms’ grass-fed beef for pets also does not contain antibiotics or hormones. As a result, a raw diet based on grass-fed beef can help reduce the risk of developing food-related allergies. Recent research also found that dogs on a raw food diet had higher levels of an antibody that protects the immune system against previously encountered bacteria and viruses.
7. Reduction in bad dog odors
Some dog owners report that a raw food diet can help improve a dog's breath and reduce overall body odor. One reason for the improved breath is that chewing on raw bones scrapes away plaque that contains bacteria that can lead to bad breath. With 100% grass-fed beef, dogs also avoid artificial additives and fillers that may contribute to bad breath and odor.
8. Less dog poop
The absence of filler in raw dog food can lead to less dog poop. Fillers in commercial dog food are not fully digested by dogs and contribute to larger, bulkier stools. In contrast, the nutrient-rich raw dog food diets are more efficiently absorbed by a dog’s digestive system. Bonus: the dog poop won't be as stinky, either.
9. Improved hydration
Raw diets contain a higher moisture content compared to dry kibble, as raw meats, organs and vegetables naturally contain water. This increased moisture helps keep dogs better hydrated, especially those that may not drink enough water on their own. Proper hydration supports various bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption and kidney health.
Raw Diet Safety Considerations for Dogs
Balancing nutrients
Balancing nutrients is crucial when feeding dogs a raw diet to ensure they receive all the essential vitamins, minerals and proteins they need for optimal health. Owners should ensure they do not overfeed on certain groups, as it can lead to an imbalanced raw diet and potential health problems for your dog.
Raw meat contamination risks
Safe handling practices are essential when feeding raw meat to prevent contamination from harmful bacteria that can pose health risks. Raw meat can transfer these pathogens through contact with utensils, surfaces or dog bowls. Proper hygiene, such as thoroughly washing hands, cleaning surfaces and safely storing raw meat at appropriate temperatures, helps minimize the risk.
Vet consultation
Consulting a vet before starting a raw food diet is crucial to ensure that your dog receives a balanced diet tailored to their specific needs and to avoid nutritional deficiencies or health risks. A vet can help assess whether a raw diet is appropriate based on your dog’s age, health status and lifestyle.
Common Myths and Misconceptions about Raw Diets for Dogs
Myth: Raw diets are inherently dangerous due to bacteria.
Reality: While raw meat can contain bacteria, safe handling practices minimizes these risks. Dogs have a higher stomach acidity and shorter digestive tract, making them naturally better equipped to handle bacteria from raw meat than humans
Myth: Dogs can't properly digest raw meat.
Reality: Dogs are natural carnivores, and their digestive systems are designed to process raw meat.
Myth: Raw feeding is too expensive or inconvenient.
Reality: A raw dog food diet can actually be cost-effective in the long run. Buying pre-portioned, balanced raw dog food can reduce costs. Furthermore, raw-fed dogs may have fewer vet visits due to improved health.
It’s important to purchase raw dog food from a trusted supplier like Acabonac Farms, which ensures that raw feeding is safe, effective and affordable.
How to Transition Your Dog to a Raw Diet
Start with a gradual transition from kibble to raw food to avoid digestive issues. You don’t want to do this in a day. If your dog currently eats dry dog food, mix it with Acabonac Pet food for the first 15 to 21 days, slowly increasing the amount of raw food and reducing kibble. Note that older dogs will take more time. As dogs make the transition, monitor their stool and behavior for any changes.
The pre-portioned raw dog food meals from Acabonac Pets makes the transition easier, allowing you to better track the amount of good you give your dog.
How Do I Store Raw Food for Dogs Safely?
To store raw dog food safely, follow these key tips:
Freezing. Store raw food in the freezer at or below 0°F (-18°C) to keep it safe from bacteria. Frozen raw dog food can be stored for months if properly sealed and airtight. Acabonac Farms ships its raw dog food frozen.
Thawing. Thaw raw food in the refrigerator, not on countertops, to prevent bacteria from growing. Place the food in a sealed container to avoid cross-contamination with other items in the fridge.
Serving Time. Only thaw enough raw food for a few days and serve immediately after it has thawed. Once thawed, raw food should be used within two to three days.
Cleanliness. Wash your hands, bowls, and utensils thoroughly after handling raw food to prevent contamination. Disinfect surfaces and storage areas regularly.
Buy Raw Dog Food Online from Acabonac Farms
Feeding dogs a raw diet offers numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, higher energy levels, a healthier coat and better dental health. Raw diets are also rich in enzymes that help dogs break down food more efficiently, leading to better nutrient absorption and smaller, firmer stools.
For the highest quality raw dog feed, Acabonac Farms offers 100% grass-fed and pastured choices. They include raw dog feed made from grass-fed beef, pastured lamb, pastured pork and pastured chicken. If you’re ready to try a raw dog food diet with your pet, Acabonac Farms provides the freshest, most nutritious options available.
Frequently Asked Questions about Raw Dog Food
How much raw food should I feed my dog?
The general guideline for feeding raw food to dogs is 2% to 3% of their ideal body weight per day. For example, a 50-pound dog would typically eat between 1 and 1.5 pounds of raw food daily, over two meals. Puppies, active dogs or dogs with higher metabolisms may require more, while senior or less active dogs may need less.
Can I mix kibble with raw food?
Only while transitioning a dog off of kibble. While it’s possible to mix kibble with raw food, it is generally not recommended. Kibble and raw food digest at different rates; kibble takes longer to break down due to its carbohydrate content, while raw food is digested more quickly due to its high protein and fat composition.
What are signs that my dog isn’t adapting well to a raw diet?
Signs that your dog may not be adapting well to a raw diet include persistent digestive issues like diarrhea, vomiting or constipation. Also, if your dog experiences lethargy, loss of appetite or significant weight loss, these could indicate that they aren’t getting the necessary nutrients from the raw food. Always consult with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.
Do vets recommend a raw diet for dogs?
Some vets support raw diets due to potential benefits like improved digestion, coat health and energy levels, particularly when the diet is balanced and prepared safely.
Can dogs eat raw food everyday?
Yes, dogs can eat raw dog food every day as long as the diet is well-balanced and provides all the necessary nutrients.
Is raw really better for dogs?
Raw dog food can lead to benefits such as improved digestion, shinier coats, better dental health and increased energy levels. Raw diets can offer more natural and unprocessed nutrition, with fewer fillers and additives compared to commercial kibble.
Do dogs prefer raw or cooked?
Dogs generally tend to prefer raw meat due to its stronger smell and taste, which aligns more closely with their natural instincts as carnivores. Raw food can be more enticing because it mimics what dogs’ ancestors would have eaten in the wild.