Can dogs eat raw chicken? Well, dogs can naturally eat raw chicken as part of a healthy diet. That being said, raw feeding is popular among many dog owners, and it has some advantages. It is one of the most searched questions by dog owners who are thinking of giving their dogs a proper diet. Let’s talk more about why pets can take raw chicken, why doing so is actually beneficial to them, and the best way to give it to them.
Here are all the topics we covered in this guide. You can click the links below to jump to any section:
- Natural Diet for Canines
- High Protein Content
- Improved Dental Health
- Healthy digestion
- Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin
- Can dogs safely eat raw chicken bones?
- Raw Chicken Is Good For Dogs For Several Reasons
- Nutritional Comparison of Raw vs. Cooked Chicken
- Final Paw
- FAQs
1. Natural Diet for Canines
Dogs are wolves’ wild cousins and consume raw meat in their natural diet. Their genes dictate that they should consume food in its original form, straight from the raw source; therefore, raw chicken fits them well.
- Nutrient Retention: When chicken is raw, it contains vitamins and minerals, which are likely to be affected by high temperatures when they are being cooked. There are more nutritious alternatives like chickpeas for dogs which you can consider for your pet.
- Instinctive Eating: Eating based on instinct is also key to following a diet that includes what wild dogs consume in their natural habitat.
- Unprocessed Goodness: Raw chicken is natural, not processed like cooked chicken; therefore, it contains all the nutrients as it is rated for human consumption.
2. High Protein Content
The first and most apparent benefit of feeding raw chicken to dogs is the protein. As you know, protein does not have to cost a lot because it’s so abundant in nature! Proteins play an important part in the development of muscles, which basically make up half the body. They are also a source of energy and building blocks.
- Excellent Protein: Raw chicken provides excellent quality protein that is easily digested.
- Muscle Development: They are important for muscle development. It helps build and maintain strong muscles.
- Immune Support: Raw chicken provides excellent support for the immune system and helps maintain a healthy dog that is vibrant and active. Additionally, ingredients like corn can offer nutritional benefits in canine diets.
3. Improved Dental Health
Eating raw chicken will reduce your dog’s dental problems. You can consider using dental wipes to maintain healthy teeth. Raw chicken contains some enzymes that are friendly with tartar for tearing it apart, enhancing the cleanliness of a dog’s teeth, and avoiding dental diseases.
- Plaque Control: Raw chicken contains natural enzymes that assist in breaking of plaque.
- Teeth Cleaning: In its natural form, raw chicken bones benefit the teeth and gums when they are chewed.
- Disease Prevention: Daily consumption has a positive impact on dental diseases and is also helpful in the improvement of oral health.
4. Healthy digestion
It is easier for dogs to digest raw chicken than some processed dog foods. The enzymes they get from raw meat will help them digest and better absorb nutrients.
- Digestibility: Raw chicken is easier to digest than heavily processed foods.
- Gut Health: Taking care of the gut also sustains a favourable beginning of the environment in the gut, which is important for digestive health.
- Nutrient Absorption: Supports the swallowing of food in order to ensure that your pet derives the maximum benefits from the food ingested.
5. Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin
Raw chicken should be included in the diet; the dog’s hair and skin will look shiny. Dogs’ skin and fur require certain types of fatty acids, which are present in raw chicken and should be natural fats.
- Skin Nourishment: Raw chicken contains natural oils that are essential for the skin, the outer cover of the body, and the coat.
- Reduced Irritation: It reduces skin dryness as well as continuous itching, hence making the dog feel at ease.
- Healthy Appearance: As such, it wasn’t wrong for them to prepare and consume raw chicken as it made the skin on their face shiny and healthy.
Can dogs safely eat raw chicken bones?
Yes, raw chicken bones are good for dogs if given safely. The types of bones that most dogs can chew on are raw chicken/turkey necks, oxtail, and frozen meat knuckle bones. However, make sure you choose bones that will fit your canine and make it a point to closely monitor the dog while chewing the bones in order to avoid incidents such as choking or blockage.
Raw Chicken Is Good For Dogs For Several Reasons
Super Nutrient: It offers all protein, vitamins, and minerals that come from natural sources without any preservatives.
Skin and Coat Health: This is useful for producing both oil and sebum, which are essential in bringing back the shine of coat and skin.
Dental Health: Typically, they are not harmful to the teeth and their gum tissues; additionally, raw bones help in scraping away any food debris stuck along the tooth surface. Better
Digestive: The natural enzymes break down the substantial ingredient in digestion and absorption.
Boost Energy: It can boost the energy of your dog and improve its health status.
Nutritional Comparison of Raw vs. Cooked Chicken
| Nutrient | Raw Chicken (per 100g) | Cooked Chicken (per 100g) |
| Protein | 27g | 25g |
| Fat | 3.5g | 3.1g |
| Calories | 143 kcal | 165 kcal |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5mg | 0.4mg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 13.4mg | 12.4mg |
Final Paw
Raw chicken has its benefits regarding the consumption of your dog, and these include the levels of protein, your dog’s dental health or gums, and healthy stomach or bowels. However, you must learn how to prepare raw chicken safely for your dog and make a proper diet for dogs. Always consult your vet before putting your pet on any diet plan, as it is wiser to do the dietary plan to provide the companion animal with all the nutrients they need for their well-being.
This guide can help you acquire all the information you need to feed your dog raw chicken safely and explain why raw chicken is good for him. Checking for signs that relate to your dog should always be noted and checked every time you put the pet on a new diet because each dog is different.
FAQs
1. Is it okay for your dog to eat chicken without getting sick?
Sure thing! Dogs actually have a level of stomach acids that help them digest raw meat and prevent bacteria growth in their stomachs. Just remember to use fresh chicken from a trustworthy source all the time.
2. When should I feed my dog raw chicken to eat?
It depends on the size and age of your dog, as well as their activity level. Most of the time, you can also feed your dog raw chicken, but again, this should come with other needed nutrients.
3. What if my dog doesn’t like raw chicken?
Some dogs may need time to adjust to the texture and taste of raw chicken. You can start by mixing small amounts with their regular food and gradually increase the portion.
4. Can puppies be fed with raw chicken?
Yes, but you need to make some changes gradually, especially when adding raw chicken to your pets’ meals. You also need to provide your pets with a balanced diet.
5. Does raw chicken bring cases of allergies in dogs?
Some dogs may have chicken allergies. If you see any signs of allergy, such as itching or upset Tums, consult your vet as soon as possible. For more information on this topic, check out how to choose the best dog food for allergies.
