Raw or cooked meat for dogs? Choosing the best diet for your pet

The role of meat in a dog’s diet

Meat plays a key role in a dog’s diet as the main source of protein, which the body needs to function properly. Protein is the basic building block of cells and tissues, and it also has an important part in producing enzymes and hormones. Meat supplies a dog with essential amino acids needed for repair, growth and good health, since the dog’s body cannot produce some of them itself. Besides protein, meat also contains fats, which provide energy and support healthy skin and coat. It further contains a range of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iron and zinc, all crucial for the immune system and the dog’s general health. Including meat in a dog’s diet in the right way is therefore essential to its health and wellbeing.

Which meats can dogs eat?

Dogs can eat a variety of meats that supply the nutrients they need. Poultry such as chicken and turkey is most often recommended, being high in protein and easy to digest. Beef is also a good source of protein and iron, while lamb can suit dogs with a sensitive digestive system. Pork can be given, but avoid large quantities, as it is harder to digest and higher in fat. Do remember that meat should be fresh, of good quality and free of bones, which can be dangerous for dogs.

A dog’s diet should include both muscle meat and offal, which is a source of valuable nutrients. Offal such as liver, hearts or stomachs gives dogs a good dose of protein along with vitamins and minerals essential to their health. Do not overdo it, though: too much offal can cause diarrhoea and an overdose of certain fat-soluble vitamins. It is therefore recommended that offal makes up no more than 25% of the total volume of a dog’s meal. 

Feeding your dog raw meat

Feeding dogs raw meat has become a popular topic among dog lovers, especially in connection with the raw diet (BARF). Raw meat supplies dogs with natural nutrients, enzymes and vitamins that can be destroyed by high temperatures. On a raw-meat diet, owners often notice better skin and coat condition, improved digestion and more energy in their pets. It is essential, however, to follow the rules of hygiene and safety: the meat should come from a trusted source and be stored and prepared with care, to keep the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli to a minimum. Raw meat should be introduced into a dog’s diet gradually, and any dietary changes are best discussed with a veterinarian to ensure the right nutritional balance and avoid health problems.

How much raw meat a dog needs

The amount of raw meat in a dog’s diet should be matched to its weight, age, activity level and general health. Raw meat is usually recommended to make up around 60-80% of the total diet, with the rest supplied by other ingredients such as vegetables, fruit or grains. A good rule of thumb is to give 2-3% of the dog’s body weight in raw meat each day, so for a dog weighing 10 kg that works out at roughly 200-300 g of meat. It is important to watch how the dog responds to its new diet and adjust the amounts, so as to avoid problems such as obesity or digestive upsets.

Cooked meat for dogs

Cooked meat is a popular feeding option that can be safer and easier to digest for some animals, especially those with a sensitive digestive system. Cooking meat eliminates pathogens such as Salmonella or E. coli, which reduces the risk of infection both for the dog and for the household. It is important to remember, though, that meat should be cooked without seasonings or additions that can harm dogs, such as salt, onion or garlic. In home-prepared diets, cooked meat can be a solid source of protein and of many essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and the B vitamins. As with raw meat, the key is that cooked meat should form only part of a balanced diet, supplemented appropriately and combined with other ingredients such as vegetables and grains, so that the dog is fully nourished.

How to prepare cooked meat for your dog

Preparing cooked meat for a dog is simple and takes only a few steps. It is best to choose lean meats such as chicken, turkey, beef or lamb, which provide valuable nutrients. Start by washing the meat thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then cook it in water until it is done all the way through. Do not add seasonings or salt, as these are harmful to dogs. Once cooked, cut the meat into small pieces so that the dog can eat it easily. Make sure it has cooled before serving, so as not to burn the dog’s mouth. Cooked meat can be combined with other ingredients, such as cooked vegetables (carrots or potatoes, for instance) or rice, to make a balanced meal.

So which should you choose: cooked or raw?

The choice between cooked and raw meat for a dog depends on many things, including the dog’s individual health needs, the owner’s preferences and how comfortable they feel with a given way of feeding. Raw meat, known as the raw diet (BARF), provides natural nutrients, enzymes and vitamins that can support a dog’s health, but it carries a risk of bacterial infection and so calls for strict hygiene. Cooked meat, on the other hand, is generally safer, as cooking eliminates pathogens, and it is easier to digest for dogs with a sensitive gut. It is also worth watching how your dog responds to each form: some dogs prefer raw, others cooked. The essential thing is a balanced diet that supplies all the necessary nutrients, and if in doubt it is always worth consulting a veterinarian to tailor the diet to your pet’s particular needs.