Can A Dogs Eat Raw Meat?

Yes, dogs can eat raw meat, and some owners choose a raw diet based on the idea that dogs evolved to eat uncooked foods. However, just because they can doesn’t mean they should—raw feeding requires careful consideration.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat? The Benefits, Risks, and Precautions

Raw feeding has gained popularity among dog owners, with many believing it's more natural for their pets. But is raw meat safe for dogs? How much should they eat? Are there types they should avoid? Let’s break down the potential benefits, risks, and precautions you should take when feeding your pup raw meat.

How Much Raw Meat Can Dogs Eat?

The amount varies depending on size, breed, activity level, and individual health. A general rule is that raw food should make up about 2–3% of their body weight daily. For example, a 25 kg (55 lbs) dog would need 500–750g of raw food per day, divided into meals. Always consult your vet before starting a raw diet to ensure it’s balanced.

Is Raw Meat Toxic for Dogs?

Raw meat itself isn’t toxic, but it can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which may cause foodborne illnesses in dogs—and even pose health risks to humans in the household. The dangers increase if the meat is handled improperly or left at unsafe temperatures.

Types of Raw Meat: Safe vs. Unsafe

While some meats are great for dogs, others should be avoided:

Safe Options:

• Lean beef (ground or sliced)

• Chicken (breast, thigh, wings, neck)

• Turkey (avoid seasonings)

• Lamb (good for sensitive stomachs)

• Fish (salmon, sardines—but avoid raw salmon from the Pacific Northwest due to parasites)

• Organ meats (liver, kidney—great in moderation)

Unsafe or Risky Options:

• Pork (may contain parasites)

• Raw salmon from the Pacific Northwest (linked to Salmon Poisoning Disease)

• Seasoned or processed meats (sausage, bacon, deli meats—high in fat and salt)

• Cooked bones (become brittle and splinter, posing a choking hazard)

The PROS 

Precautions to Take

If you choose to feed your dog raw meat, follow these safety tips:

✅ Buy high-quality meat from reliable sources

✅ Freeze meat before feeding to kill parasites

✅ Balance their diet - raw feeding should include meat, bone, organs, and other nutrients such as can be done with supplements ( which we will include in links below for you

 ✅ Handle meat safely - wash hands & disinfect surfaces

✅ Monitor your dog for signs of illness or digestive issues

✅ Consult a veterinarian before making major dietary changes

Our Final Thoughts

Feeding raw meat to dogs can be beneficial, but it requires careful planning to ensure safety, nutrition, and hygiene. Not all dogs tolerate raw diets well, so it’s always best to consult with a vet before making changes to their food. If done correctly, raw feeding might help your dog thrive—but if done carelessly, it could cause more harm than good

Our Supplements We Recommend 

	Canident  is a natural seaweed supplement that enhances oral health, digestion, immunity, and coat quality for raw-fed dogs. It helps reduce plaque, supports gut health, provides key nutrients, and has anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s chemical-free, sustainably sourced, and easy to mix into mealsmaking it a great addition to a raw diet!
	Beaphar Salmon oil  is a great addition to a raw diet because it provides omega-3 fatty acids that support skin, coat, joints, brain function, heart health, digestion, and immunity. It helps reduce inflammation, shedding, and allergies, while enhancing nutrition that raw diets may lack.
	ETIQ MEGAVIT Multivitamin & Mineral Supplement  for cats and dogs. This supplement is designed to support overall health, vitality, and well-being by providing an essential blend of nutrients. It is particularly useful for illness recovery, helping pets regain strength.
	AC4 Senior Dogs, a product of Ireland, with a net weight of 105g (3.5oz). It appears to be a supplement designed for older dogs, likely supporting joint health,digestion, or overall vitality.