Raw Bones for Dogs: Food Safety, Health Benefits, and Myths
Raw bones for dogs—a topic as polarizing as it is intriguing. Nutrition and pet health advocates of fresh, raw feeding tout their myriad benefits, while skeptics, including conventional veterinarians and kibble enthusiasts, caution against their risks.
In this article, we’ll unravel the myths surrounding finely ground bone in recipes, feeding raw bones as treats, exploring their benefits, and laying out the differences between feeding raw bone vs. cooked bone and the roadmap for safely including them in your dog’s diet.
Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods: The Bone Behind the Balance
In pet nutrition, Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF) diets aim to mimic what animals would naturally consume in the wild—a combination of fresh meats, organ tissues, and, most crucially, bones. This holistic approach recognizes that our furry companions aren’t just pets; they are descendants of predators whose physiology thrives on whole prey diets. A cornerstone of this diet is the inclusion of bones as the foundation of balanced nutrition.
Bone is a Crucial Ingredient Used in our Recipes
Aside from raw bone as an occupying treat to gnaw on; it’s the cornerstone of our biologically appropriate fresh diets following our biodynamic nutritional recipes, or Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) holistic practice of finding balance in pet health.
Bone is part of a carnivore’s biological diet—Mother Nature designed it that way! It’s packed with essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus and is the building block for strong skeletal development and musculoskeletal function. When included in a balanced recipe alongside meat and organs, bones mimic the diet of wild canines and felines who thrived on whole prey. It’s the ultimate achievement of a healthy, delicious, nutritious, and instinctually satisfying meal for your pet to thrive.
Bone is incorporated in a ratio of 80% muscle meat and organs, 10% finely ground bone, and 10% wholefood supplements such as leafy green phytonutrients and other organic veggies. This balance ensures pets receive the right amounts of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals without overloading any single component. The raw edible bone ratio guideline starts at 10% of the overall daily intake for adult dogs and 15-20% for puppies and cats. Too much bone can lead to constipation and mineral imbalances, while too little can result in deficiencies that affect everything from coat quality to energy levels. The key is precision, which is an advantage of having nutritional scientists and a holistic veterinarian formulating our recipes. We not only meet AAFCO requirements, but we’re raising the bar in the standards of pet nutrition and wellness.
Size Matters
Finely ground bone in pet food is considered safe when present in appropriate sizes and amounts. We use soft, raw edible bones such a grassfed beef patella. Ground bone in our recipes are no larger than a grain of rice (5mm), and is digestible whether it’s served raw, or in gently cooked recipes because of how it’s ground up and softened.
Debunking Raw Bone Myths
The idea of feeding dogs raw bone as treats can evoke a mix of fascination and fear. Humans are the only species that cooks their food. Dogs and cats are built differently— the are biological descendants of wolves and wildcats who have thrived on raw meat and bones for millions of years.
The reluctance to accept raw bones as safe often stems from two prevalent myths:
1. Raw Bones Ruin Teeth
Contrary to popular belief, raw bones are not tooth-breakers. Unlike cooked bones, which become brittle and splinter-prone under high heat, raw bones are naturally softer and more pliable. Chewing raw bones creates no more stress on canine teeth than chewing a sturdy stick or a tennis ball.
The real culprit behind cracked teeth? Cooked bones are often sold as “dog treats” in stores. These hardened bones are a dental disaster waiting to happen. Raw bones, on the other hand, are far gentler on a dog’s pearly whites.
2. Raw Bones Upset Digestion
Another misconception is that raw bones wreak havoc on a dog’s digestive system. Here’s the truth: cooked bones, with their tendency to splinter, pose the real danger. These shards can puncture a dog’s intestines or cause blockages. Raw bones, however, are gnawed down into small, soft particles that a dog’s highly acidic stomach easily digests.
Debunking the Risk of Finely Ground Bone in Gently Cooked Recipes
The objection against feeding gently cooked recipes with finely ground bone stems from the fact that feeding cooked bone is overall dangerous. To be clear, feeding isolated cooked bones is NOT recommended, especially as treats, because of its form and size. Bones that are cooked at high heat (e.g., roasted or dry baked) harden, sharpen, become brittle, dry, and may splinter.
This is a practice that we do not follow because of these risks.
However, gently cooking, sautéing, or steaming our recipes is another situation altogether! When preparation is taken into account that the bone is soft, malleable, and pulverized into powder and tiny grains, this risk is greatly mitigated because of the size and amount that is being served.
Gently cooking or sautéing our recipes with finely ground bone is safe and beneficial because it’s easy to digest and there’s a degree of nutrition extraction. The collagen and gelatin released during gentle cooking promote joint health, skin health, and digestion.
The Benefits of Raw Bones
Feeding raw bones as treats isn’t just safe when done correctly—it’s incredibly beneficial for your dog’s overall health. Here’s how:
1. Nutrient Powerhouse
Raw bones are packed with essential nutrients:
Collagen: A vital protein for skin, joints, and connective tissue health.
Calcium and Phosphorus: Essential for strong bones, muscle function, and even cancer prevention.
Vitamins D and B12: Support immune health.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Promote joint health and reduce inflammation.
2. Natural Dental Care
Chewing raw bones acts as nature’s toothbrush. The mechanical action scrapes plaque stimulates gum blood flow, and boosts saliva production, creating an oral environment hostile to harmful bacteria.
3. Digestive Health
Raw bones support a healthy gut microbiome and firm up stools. Their fibrous structure helps regulate digestion, addressing both diarrhea and constipation.
4. A Healthy Energy Outlet
Dogs are instinctual chewers, and raw bones provide a satisfying, biologically appropriate outlet. Beyond physical stimulation, they engage your dog’s senses, reducing stress and promoting mental well-being.
How to Feed Raw Bone Treats Safely
While raw bones are a natural addition to a dog’s diet, safety is paramount. Follow these guidelines to minimize risks:
1. Choose the Right Type and Size of Bone
Avoid:
Cooked bones: Too brittle and dangerous.
Rib bones: Thin and hazardous.
Split bones: Can break into sharp fragments.
Safe options we offer:
Raw Grassfed Meaty Beef Marrow Bones - small and large cuts available
2. Pick the Right Size
Ensure the bone is at least as large as your dog’s head to prevent choking. For small dogs, try smaller cuts or our chicken paws; medium dogs can handle marrow or knucklebones; large breeds may enjoy larger marrow bones.
3. Store Bones Properly
Our raw grassfed bones are frozen. Keep bones in the freezer until ready for use. Limit chewing sessions to an hour, refrigerate leftovers, and discard bones after a few days.
4. Introduce Gradually
Begin with short chewing sessions to allow your dog’s stomach to adapt. Some dog parents hold the bone while their pet licks or gnaws on them as an introduction. Another option is start with softer treats such as our raw chicken paws, or our raw pig’s tails before progressing to harder options.
4. Always Monitor
Every pet is different when it comes to feeding. Some dogs are quite enthusiastic and chomp bones down with great excitement! While others are grazers and gnawers, taking their sweet time working the meat and marrow out of the bone. It is important to supervise their treatment time to ensure there isn’t a choking hazard in their chewing enthusiasm.
5. Cater to Your Dog’s Needs
Adjust bone selection based on your dog’s age, health, and chewing style. Dogs with dental issues may require softer bones or diet alternatives. When introduced thoughtfully, they’re a safe, nutritious, and rewarding addition to your dog’s diet. From promoting oral health to providing essential nutrients, raw bones address both physical and mental well-being.
So, whether you’re a seasoned raw feeder or a curious beginner, remember: the key to success lies in selecting the right bones, monitoring your dog closely, and tailoring the experience to their unique needs.
Your dog will thank you—with a wagging tail and a gleaming smile.
SUMMARY
Raw Bones for Dogs: Food Safety, Health Benefits, and Myths. Raw bones for dogs are a hotly debated topic, with advocates praising their health benefits and critics warning of risks. This comprehensive guide addresses myths about raw bones, emphasizing their nutritional value in biologically appropriate raw food (BARF) diets, which mimic a natural prey-based diet. Raw bones, packed with essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and collagen, promote dental health, gut microbiome balance, and mental stimulation while providing a safe outlet for instinctual chewing. Key to their safe inclusion in a dog’s diet is selecting appropriate types, sizes, and preparation methods, such as finely ground raw bones or gently cooked recipes. Proper supervision and gradual introduction ensure a safe, enriching experience tailored to each dog’s needs, making raw bones a beneficial addition to their overall health and well-being.
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