Why Do Most Vets Still Recommend Kibble over raw dog food even though (2024)

FAQs

Why Do Most Vets Still Recommend Kibble over raw dog food even though? ›

The American Veterinary Medical Association opposes the unregulated feeding of raw foods and discourages “the feeding to cats and dogs of any animal-source protein that has not first been subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens, because of the risk of illness to cats and dogs, as well as humans.”

Raw food, especially meat, contains bacteria, parasites and other pathogens that would normally be killed during the cooking process.

When selecting raw dog food, it's essential to consider a dog's needs, such as age, weight, and activity levels, and to choose a food with a lower bone content to avoid constipation. Kibble dog food has the advantage of being long-lasting, more hygienic, easier to feed, and more convenient.

There are a number of benefits to dry kibble for dogs: It's much easier to store, lasts longer and is more cost efficient. Kibble helps to remove built-up tartar and plaque, which is better for your pet's dental health.

Potential risks of raw feeding dogs

Raw meat contains pathogens such as bacteria and parasites which can be a threat to both human and canine health. There's also a concern that some of these bacteria may be resistant to antimicrobials, and feeding raw diets could help spread antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Being sanitary is important, just like it is with kibble feeding. Both require being sanitary. Most Vets have the best interest of your animal at heart, and it isn't just a money-making scheme for them to make more money by pushing a science diet. It's simply Convenience, Incentives, and Accessibility.

Is it healthy for dogs eat only dry food. Good news: our furry friends are completely ok with eating only dry food. Even though tastes and preferences vary from one dog to another, the nutritional properties of quality dog food allow pets to get all the essential elements needed for their healthy and active life.

Those who feed their dogs kibble suggest the potential benefits to be: reduced dental plaque, healthier gums, reduced risk of bacteria, easier storage, less risk of spoilage, and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, some dog owners choose to switch to fresh food like Ollie due to the risks of kibble.

The Purina Pro Plan dog food formulas are scientifically backed up. They are made of high-quality ingredients and carefully crafted by top field experts – scientists, nutritionists, and veterinarians. In addition to being vet-approved and recommended, Purina is the most trusted pet brand in America.

Is blue buffalo recommended by vets? ›

Offering high-protein and homestyle recipes, the brand makes its formulas on recommendations by animal nutritionists and veterinarians. They are loaded with high-quality protein, glucosamine, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them suitable for both large and small dogs.

Bacon and fatty meat

That's right! High-fat foods like bacon, ham, or meat trimmings can cause pancreatitis in dogs. And since these meats are often high in salt content, too, they can cause upset stomachs and, in extreme cases, can cause dogs to drink too much water, leading to bloat, which can be fatal.

Raw meat can carry germs like viruses and bacteria that can make you sick. These can transfer to our hands, cooking utensils, and other food. This is called "cross-contamination".

Feeding a diet consisting primarily of raw meat may not provide the complete and balanced nutrition your dog needs. This is particularly true for puppies, whose dietary needs are complex as they grow and develop. The same goes for senior dogs, who may have weakened immune systems and more sensitive digestive systems.

Although research is still in its infancy, there is promising evidence that a raw diet can drastically improve canine cognitive and mental health, leading to improved behavior and an overall higher quality of life.

Mixing Food Can Cause “Bad” Bacteria to Grow In the Gut

And the amount and types of bacteria can change and eventually stabilize according to the type of food your dog eats. Of course, kibble and raw feeding provide your pet with different types of nutrients that can affect bacterial growth.