Raw Feeding Basics
Is Raw Dog Food Safe for Dogs?
Aug 5, 2024
Is raw dog food safe? Here is an honest overview of bacterial risk, safe handling practices, and when to be extra cautious with raw feeding.
Safety is one of the first questions that comes up when people start looking into raw feeding, and it is a fair one. Here is an honest overview of the topic.
Raw meat can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria. This is true of raw meat sold for human consumption as well as raw pet food. The question is not whether bacteria can be present but how to handle and manage it appropriately.
Dogs have a shorter and more acidic digestive tract than humans, which means they process raw meat differently. Many raw feeders report no issues with bacterial exposure, though it is worth noting that healthy adult dogs with strong immune systems are generally better equipped to handle raw meat than dogs with compromised immune systems, very young puppies, or senior dogs.
The risk of bacterial contamination is significantly reduced by consistent safe handling practices: thawing food in the refrigerator, washing hands before and after handling, keeping food preparation surfaces clean, and not leaving raw food sitting at room temperature for extended periods. Our guide on how to handle raw dog food safely at home covers every step in detail.
These are the same practices that apply to handling raw meat for human meals, and they become second nature quickly.
The quality and safety of raw dog food also depends on where it comes from. Products from reputable suppliers who follow good manufacturing practices and maintain proper cold chain standards are safer than products from unknown or unverified sources. Our post on how to choose a raw dog food supplier in Edmonton explains exactly what to look for.
Hound and Bone sources products from trusted suppliers and ensures that all products arrive at your door still frozen. Browse our range to see the full ingredient and sourcing information for every blend.
Dogs undergoing chemotherapy, dogs with compromised immune systems, and dogs recovering from illness may not be ideal candidates for raw feeding. Puppies under a certain age and pregnant or nursing dogs also warrant extra consideration. If any of these situations apply to your dog, a conversation with your veterinarian before starting raw feeding is strongly recommended. Our post on is raw dog food regulated in Canada also provides useful context on the safety standards that apply to raw pet food here.
This article is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet. Individual results may vary.