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Raw Diet For Dogs: Will It Improve Your Dogs Health?
Raw dog food diets are controversial. While some think this is the way dogs were meant to eat before dogs became pets, others think dry dog food is the correct diet for our four-legged fur balls. Is raw food good for dogs? Lets dig into raw dog food diets a bit more so you can draw your own conclusion about whether this diet lives up to the hype.
What Is A Raw Food Diet For Dogs?
Araw dog food diet emphasizes uncooked meat (often muscle and organ meat), whole or crushed bones, fruits, vegetables, raw eggs, and some dairy.
The raw dog food diet started with racing Greyhounds and sled dogs. In 1993, Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst proposed extending the diet to family dogs. He called this the BARF diet for dogs, which stands for Bones and Raw Food or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food.
Billinghurst suggested dogs would flourishon BARF dog food since this is how they ate prior to being domesticated. He also argued that commercial pet foods were harmful to the health of dogs. However, many vets and the FDA disagree with Billinghursts views.
What Are The Claimed Benefits Of Raw Food Diets For Dogs?
Billinghurst and his supporters say the benefits include:
- Shinier coat
- Healthier skin
- Cleaner teeth
- More energy
- Smaller stool
Potential Risks Of Raw Diets
While there are potential upsides and some veterinarians may recommend it, theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)is not on board with BARF. Citing a number of studies, the AVMA discourages feeding raw food or undercooked animal proteins because they can contain potentially deadly pathogens and harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. Coli that can sicken your pet and possibly be transmitted to humans. Yikes!
Other possible disadvantages of the raw diet for dogs include:
- Harmful bacteria in raw meat pose a threat to the dogs and human health.
- Giving whole meaty bones to dogs presents a risk of choking, broken teeth, or internal punctures (learn more aboutif dogs can eat bones).
- Nutritional deficiencies can occur from raw dog food diets if they are not properly balanced. Low calcium and phosphorus levels, as well as inadequate vitamins and low levels of EPA and DHA, are some nutritional deficiencies that can develop.
Transitioning Your Dog From Dry Food To Raw
Its important to remember thattransitioning your dog to a new dietis aslow process. Below is a rough schedule you can use for this dietary shift.
If you notice your dog isnt feeling well, you should go back a day in the transition plan and proceed at a slower pace. For example, if your dog struggles with 50% serving, shift back to 40% serving for another day or two before moving forward.
Another thing wed like to mention is that raw diets are only safe for dogs 12 weeks andolder.
- Day 1:Feed 75% of your current (old) food and mix in 25% of the raw food in each serving to start the adjustment period for clean digestion.
- Day 2:Adjust to feeding 60% of your old food and mix in 40% of the raw food in each serving.
- Day 3:Feed 50% of your old food, mixed with 50% of the raw food per serving.
- Day 4:Feed 40% of your old food, mixed with 60% of the raw food per serving.
- Day 5:Feed 25% of your old food, mixed with 75% of the raw food per serving.
- Day 6:Feed 90-100% of the raw food at this point, you should be very close to a clean digestive transition period.
Break the daily serving size into two meals per day: one in the morning and one in the evening.
As a general rule, dogs on a raw food diet need to eat 2 to 5% of their body weight in raw food. You must be careful to ensure they get enough to eat, as many dogs drop a good amount of weight on a raw food diet. Maintaining a healthy body weight is a priority because you do not want your pup to lose too much weight too quickly.
Raw Dog Food Recipes
Want to get your dog started on a raw dog food diet? Here is a recipe you can try out using ground meat. We should note that the nutritional balance varies based on the breed and size of your dog, so talk to your vet about the best option for your pet. Or better yet, get one of the commercial pet food brands we recommend to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbsground beef
- 4 ozchicken livers
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 small apple, cored
- 1/2 cup baby spinach
- 2 whole eggs (including shell)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbspground flaxseed
- 1 tbspolive oil
Note: It is critical that you use high-quality grade ground meat and understand that there are risks associated with consuming uncooked meat. In addition, there are severalfoods your dog should never eat,so plan your recipe accordingly.
Directions
- Put carrot, apple, and spinach in a food processor and process until finely chopped.
- Add remaining ingredients except for beef and process until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and add the beef until well mixed.
- Form into patties the size of your palm and place on parchment lined baking sheet.
- Freeze patties and transfer them to a storage container to keep them frozen.
- The night before you wish to feed, remove the patties from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator to thaw.
Best Raw Dog Food Brands
Billinghursts book, Give Your Dog A Bone, has sparked commercially processed raw dog food diets to help pet parents who are short on time.
Shopping for ingredients, grinding, chopping, measuring, and mixing may not be something you have time for. Thats why these ready-made raw dog food delivery services can be so convenient for busy families who have an interest in feeding raw food to their pups.
Read our comparison of the best raw dog food delivery optionsand check out our rankings on the right. These food products are freeze-dried or frozen to maintain their nutrients and consist of meat, grains, vitamins, and vegetables.
Freeze-dried options can be convenient for traveling, but frozen is typically less processed than freeze-dried. So keep that in mind when youre purchasing raw food for your dog.
Some pet parents choose to serve these raw food packages on top of some kibble to help dogs adjust to a raw diet.
Video: How To Determine Serving Size
Wondering how much to feed your pup on a raw diet? Learn more in this video:
Myths About Raw Feeding Dogs
There are certainly risks and reservations with valid reasons behind them about raw feeding dogs. That said, there are also several myths and misconceptions that we can clear up.
- Raw feeding does not make dogs aggressive.
- Raw food will not automatically make your dog sick.
- The raw dog food diet is not only made up of raw meat.
- Dogs can eat both raw food and kibble. No rule says your dog must be exclusively on one diet.
Bottom Line: Every Pup Is Unique
Just because your furry friend gobbles up a raw meat diet, that doesnt mean its right for all dogs. Some animals might never be able to switch due to food sensitivities or other health issues. We strongly emphasize discussing your dogs specific needs with your vet before making any dietary changesand being patient in the process. Remember that any diet change can cause some stomach issues.
If your dog does get sick or needs medical attention, see a vet right away and consider getting pet insurance now so that if a need arises, your medical costs could be partially covered for any exams and medications for issues that exclude pre-existing conditions. Learn more about the benefits and if pet insurance may be a good fit for you. You might also check out these other homemade dog food recipes that contain cooked food as an alternative to raw.
Why Trust Canine Journal
At Canine Journal, we write about every type of diet to help pet parents decide whats best for their dogs. Raw diets can be controversial, which is why Kimberly consulted with many dog food experts to provide this content to our audience. She also has experience with various dog food brands and diet types, including raw.
Tagged With: RawRutabaga Cleanse for Dogs:The Perfect Detox for Your Dog!
Have you tried detoxifying your dog before? If not, then why not give Rutabaga Cleanse for dogs a go?
Did you know that rutabagas are packed with nutrients such as potassium, fiber and vitamin C? They also contain high levels of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that support overall health. Did you know that rutabaga cleanse for dogs has been proven to detoxify your dog?
Rutabaga (also known as turnip or swede) is considered a root vegetable, although some consider it a tuber. This nutritious food is rich in essential nutrients such as protein and carbohydrates.
If you want to feed your dog better, why not try rutabaga cleanses? They are extremely effective at cleansing your dogs body of toxins and waste, leaving them feeling refreshed and energized.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of a rutabaga cleanse for dogs and how to set up the perfect detox plan for your pup.
Also Read :can dogs eat Nuts?
What is Rutabaga?
Rutabagas are members of the brassica family. They are closely related to cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower, collard greens, kohlrabi, mustard, radishes, turnips, and watercress. Rutabagas are sometimes called Swede turnips because they originated in Sweden.
They are easy to grow and store well. You can plant seeds directly into the garden in early spring or buy plants from a nursery. Plant seedlings about 3 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart. Keep soil moist during germination and transplant seedlings into individual pots once roots develop. Plants usually produce small white flowers followed by edible fruits. Harvest mature vegetables when they reach 2 to 4 inches long. Store rutabagas in a plastic bag in the refrigerator up to 5 days.
Nutrition value of rutabaga
Rutabagas are an excellent source of nutrients.
One medium rutabaga (386 grams) provides (1Trusted Source):
- Calories: 143
- Carbs: 33 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Fiber: 9 grams
- Vitamin C: 107% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Potassium: 35% of the DV
- Magnesium: 18% of the DV
- Calcium: 17% of the DV
- Vitamin E: 7% of the DV
Can Dogs Eat Rutabaga ?
Rutabagas are root vegetables that are high in fiber, potassium, vitamin K and folate. They also contain some protein, iron, calcium and phosphorus, making them a great source of nutrition for both you and your canine companion.
However, there are certain things you need to know about rutabaga before giving it to your dog. First off, make sure to chop up the rutabaga into smaller pieces so your dog can better chew and digest it. Also, keep in mind that rutabaga contains starch and sugar, so it might cause diarrhea in dogs. If your dog does experience diarrhea after consuming rutabaga, stop feeding it immediately and consult your vet.
Finally, always monitor your dog while theyre eating this food to ensure they dont have any adverse effects.
What is a Rutabaga Cleanse for Dogs?
A rutabaga cleanse for dogs is a detoxification plan that includes rutabagas as the main ingredient. Rutabagas are a root vegetable that are high in fiber and contain numerous vitamins and minerals.
They can help to detoxify the body, aid in digestion, and improve overall health. The plan includes feeding your pup a diet that includes rutabaga as the main ingredient.
This diet will provide all the nutrients needed for a healthy lifestyle and help your pup maintain a balanced diet.
The Benefits of a Rutabaga Cleanse for Dogs
Rutabagas have been around since ancient times. In fact, they were first domesticated thousands of years ago in Central Asia. Today, rutabagas are grown worldwide in both greenhouses and open fields. Their popularity continues to rise due to their versatility; they can be eaten raw or cooked, juiced or blended, baked or mashed.
In addition to being versatile, rutabagas are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. These nutritional benefits make them a great choice for dogs of any ageand theyre even good for humans! Below, we look at some of the many ways you can benefit your dog with rutabagas.
1.Healthy Bones & Joints
One of the best things about rutabagas is that they are extremely rich in glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and vitamin K. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates help keep joints strong and healthy. Vitamin K helps promote bone density and joint health. Rutabagas are also loaded with iron and zinc, which play a role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
2. A Healthy Digestive System
Rutabagas are packed full of enzymes and fiber, making them an excellent food for dogs who need digestive aid. Fiber aids digestion and promotes regularity. Enzymes improve the breakdown of protein and break down toxins in the body. Rutabagas are also rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and keeps skin looking youthful.
3. Stronger Teeth
Rutabagas are a great way to strengthen your dogs teeth. They provide plenty of calcium and phosphorous, two minerals that contribute to the formation and maintenance of enamel (the outer layer of teeth). As a bonus, they are low in sugar, making them safe for dogs with diabetes.
4. Keep Your Dog Fit And Reduces Inflammation
If your dog suffers from arthritis, rutabagas can help reduce inflammation and ease pain. Rutabagas also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps regulate serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is associated with feelings of well-being and contentment. Tryptophan may also help relieve depression and anxiety.
5. Boost Energy Levels
When your dog gets tired, she might not want to do anything except curl up in bed. But if she eats rutabagas regularly, shell start feeling energized sooner than later. Rutabagas contain B complex vitamins, which boost energy and give her a sense of well-being.
6. Boosts Immunity
Like carrots, rutabagas are rich in antioxidants, making them excellent immune boosters. Antioxidants work to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and theyve been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Plus, rutabagas is packed with vitamin C, beta carotene, manganese, copper, zinc, iron, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, thiamine, riboflavin, and B12. All these vitamins play a role in boosting your pets immune system.
7. Cancer Fighting
One study found that eating rutabagas may actually prevent certain types of cancers. Scientists believe that compounds called Glucosinolates in rutabagas might block enzymes that promote tumor growth. Another study showed that eating rutabaga helped treat colon cancer in rats.
8. Helps in Weight Loss
Another study shows that rutabagas could help control appetite. Researchers at Purdue University discovered that the fiber content in rutabagas supports satiety (the feeling of fullness). Eating rutabagas before meals could make you feel fuller faster, helping you eat fewer calories throughout the day.
Potential Side Effects of Rutabaga Cleanse for dogs
If youre considering a rutabaga cleanse for your dog, its important to understand the potential side effects.
While the rutabaga cleanse is generally considered to be a safe and effective way to cleanse your pets system, its important to be aware of the potential side effects.
The most common side effect is an upset stomach, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
In some cases, the rutabaga cleanse may also cause dehydration, so its important to closely monitor your pets water intake during the cleanse. Other potential side effects include decreased appetite, weight loss, and an increase in gas.
If your pet experiences any of these side effects, its best to stop the cleanse and contact your veterinarian right away. Remember that each pet is unique, so its important to talk to your veterinarian first to make sure the rutabaga cleanse is the right choice for your pet.
Preparing the Rutabaga Cleanse for Your Dog
Are you looking for a way to spice up your pups dinner? Rutabaga is a great option! Not only is it delicious and nutritious, but it is also easy to cook and prepare. Here are some tips and tricks on how to cook rutabaga for your pup!
- Start by washing the rutabaga and cutting it into small cubes. This makes it easier for your pup to eat. Once you have cut the rutabaga, you can boil, bake, or even steam it. Boiling the rutabaga is the easiest and quickest option, but baking or steaming it gives it a delicious flavor.
- Once the rutabaga is cooked, you can mix it in with your pups regular food or serve it on its own. If you choose to mix it in with their food, be sure to mash it up or cut it into smaller pieces. This will ensure that your pup can easily digest it.
- You can also add some flavor to the rutabaga by adding some herbs and spices. Just be sure to check with your veterinarian first to make sure that the herbs and spices are safe for your pup.
By following these steps, you can easily make a tasty and nutritious meal for your pup with rutabaga!
Other vegetables to serve with Rutabaga
Rutabaga is a perfectly fine vegetable for your pet, but you might want to mix it up by serving other veggies too.
Good choices for dogs would be carrot, green bean, sweet potato, and squash. These foods contain nutrients that can help maintain their health.
All of them can be easily combined with rutabaga for a healthy and delicious dish!
Rutabagas, also known as Swedish Turnips, are roots vegetables that are often overlooked in favor of their more popular cousin, Carrot.
Rutabagas are an excellent source of vitamin C and contain lots of fiber.
Rutabagas are high in fiber and nutrients, making them a good choice for dogs who want to lose some pounds. It is best to pair rutabagas with other nutritious foods.
Pairing these veggies with meaty bones will give your dog extra nutrients and help them feel fuller for longer.
Also Read :can dogs eat Canadian bacon?
Tips for a Rutabaga Cleanse for Dogs
If youre looking for a new way to support your dogs health, then a rutabaga cleanse might be just what youre looking for! Rutabagas are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and can help keep your pups digestive system running smoothly. But before you give your pup a rutabaga cleanse, there are a few things you should know.
- First, you should only give your dog a rutabaga cleanse as directed by your vet.
- Second, you should always start with a small amount of rutabaga, and slowly increase the amount as your pup gets used to it.
- Third, you should always mix the rutabaga with your pups regular food. This will help to ensure that your pup is getting all the nutrients he needs.
- Finally, you should keep the rutabaga cleanse to a few times per month. Too much rutabaga can lead to digestive issues, so its important to stick to a regular schedule.
With these tips in mind, you can give your pup a rutabaga cleanse that will help keep his digestive system in tip-top shape!
How Often to Perform a Rutabaga Cleanse for dogs
If youre a pet owner, youve probably heard of the rutabaga cleanse for dogs. Its a great way to keep your pups digestive system healthy and strong, but how often should you perform a rutabaga cleanse for your pet?
The answer depends on how old your pet is and how often he or she goes to the bathroom. For puppies or senior dogs, a rutabaga cleanse should be done at least once a month. If your pet is in between, once every two to four weeks is appropriate.
When administering the rutabaga cleanse, make sure you are following the instructions properly. Generally, its best to start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount until your pet is comfortable. You can also add a small amount of water to the rutabaga to make it easier to digest.
Its important to note that the rutabaga cleanse should not be used as a substitute for regular vet visits. You should speak to your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pets health. Additionally, it is important to monitor your pets response to the rutabaga cleanse and discontinue use if you notice any adverse reactions.
Overall, the rutabaga cleanse is a great way to keep your pet healthy and strong. However, it is important to consult your veterinarian to ensure that you are administering the cleanse correctly and that your pet is getting the proper nutrition.
Frequently Asked Question
Is rutabaga hard to digest?
Rutabagas are easy to digest, although they do contain some fiber. They also provide vitamins A and C, potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, zinc, niacin, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, biotin, and vitamin K.
Is rutabaga good for constipation?
Rutabagas are great for constipation because they contain high levels of fiber. Fiber helps soften stools and move them through the digestive system faster.
Is rutabaga good for dogs?
Rutabaga is great for dogs because it contains high levels of vitamin C, which helps keep them healthy. The leaves and stems also contain calcium and iron, which help build strong bones and teeth.
Can dogs eat raw rutabaga?
Yes, dogs can eat raw rutabagas. However, they should be cooked first. Rutabagas contain high levels of oxalic acid which can cause kidney stones. If you feed your dog rutabagas, you should cook them for at least 10 minutes to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.
How Many Rutabaga Should A Dog Have?
The correct answer is 1 rutabaga per dog. This is because dogs need vitamin C for healthy bones and teeth. However, some dogs may eat 2 rutabagas per week.
Is Too Much Rutabaga Bad For Dogs?
Yes, too much rutabaga can be bad for dogs. The vegetable has high levels of oxalic acid which can cause kidney stones. If you feed your dog rutabaga, they should only eat small amounts at one time.
Can puppies eat Rutabaga?
Yes! Puppies love rutabagas, which makes them perfect for training dogs. They also like carrots, sweet potatoes, and other root vegetables.
Are Rutabagas still good for dogs even if it has been stored for a long time?
Yes, rutabaga is still safe to feed to dogs even if they have been stored for a long period of time.
Can Rutabaga kill my dog?
Yes, rutabagas can be toxic for dogs. If ingested, they cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors, seizures, coma, and any of these symptoms can be life threatening. The symptoms usually appear within 24 hours after ingestion. To be on safe side properly follow the instructions and tips provided in this article.
Conclusion
Rutabaga cleanse for dogs is a natural and effective way to help your pup detoxify and maintain their health and wellbeing. This detoxification process is easy to start and can provide a variety of benefits for your pup. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before beginning and provide small amounts of rutabaga to your pup each day. With the right approach, you can help your pup get started on the perfect rutabaga cleanse for dogs.