Raw only diets for dogs have gained popularity in recent years, with some pet owners believing it to be a healthier option.

However, veterinarians often recommend a balanced diet for dogs for several reasons.

In this article, we'll explore why vets don't typically recommend a raw only diet for dogs and the potential risks involved.

What is the latest veterinary thinking when it comes to feeding dogs a raw diet?

The latest veterinary thinking on feeding dogs a raw diet is that it can pose some risks if not properly balanced and handled correctly. Veterinarians typically recommend a balanced diet for dogs because it provides all the necessary nutrients that a dog needs to stay healthy and thrive. While a raw diet may offer some benefits, such as improved digestion, it can also pose risks if not properly balanced and is not a good choice when it comes to your dogs dental health.

A balanced diet for dogs typically includes a combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, all in the right proportions for a dog's specific needs. Raw diets may not provide all of these necessary nutrients in the right amounts, leading to deficiencies or excesses that can cause health problems over time.

The importance of balanced nutrition for dogs.

Just like humans, dogs require a balanced diet to maintain good health. A balanced diet for dogs should include a variety of nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. While a raw only diet may provide some of these nutrients, it can be difficult to ensure that a dog is getting all the necessary nutrients in the right amounts. A balanced diet, on the other hand, is carefully formulated to provide all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions, ensuring that your dog stays healthy and happy.

Potential health risks associated with a raw only diet.

While a raw only diet may seem like a natural and healthy choice for dogs, it can actually pose several health risks. Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. Additionally, a raw only diet may not provide all the necessary nutrients that a dog needs, leading to deficiencies and health problems.

Poor dental health has increased significantly in dogs that are fed a raw only diet. Many raw foods are lacking in fibrous ingredients that assist with scraping  tartar and preventing plaque build up on dogs teeth, bones alone are not enough!

Vets recommend a balanced diet for dogs to ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients in a safe and healthy way.

The benefits of commercial dog food.

While some pet owners may be hesitant to feed their dogs commercial dog food, it actually has several benefits. Commercial dog food is formulated to provide all the necessary nutrients that a dog needs in a balanced and safe way. Additionally, many commercial dog foods undergo rigorous testing and quality control measures to ensure that they are safe and free from harmful bacteria. Commercial dog foods will also provide pet owners with a nutritional analysis of the food, By feeding your dog a high-quality commercial dog food, you can ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients for optimal health and wellbeing.

How to choose the right dog food for your pet.

When choosing a dog food for your pet, it’s important to consider their age, breed, size, and activity level. Look for a high-quality commercial dog food that is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of your specific dog. Read the ingredients list carefully and avoid dog foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet. Remember, a balanced diet is key to keeping your furry friend healthy and happy.

Tips for transitioning your dog to a balanced diet.

If you’ve been feeding your dog a raw only diet and want to transition them to a balanced diet, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make the transition gradually over a period of several weeks to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old food and gradually increase the amount of new food over time. Follow our transition guide if switching over to Man's Best Dog Food. 

At Delivery Hound, we know the importance of a balanced and nutritious grain free diet is for dogs. That's why it's a balance of protein, healthy carbohydrates and healthy fats from the best, locally sourced ingredients, we’re sure your best friend will love this Man’s Best recipe as much as ours do. 

Overall, while some dog owners may choose to feed their dogs a raw diet, it's important to do so under the guidance of a veterinarian or animal nutritionist who can ensure that the diet is properly balanced and safe for the dog to consume. Veterinary professionals may also recommend other options, such as commercial dog food that is formulated to meet a dog's specific nutritional needs.

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