Feeding Raw Meaty Bones

Wild dogs have always consumed raw bones and our modern dog is no different

Feeding raw meaty bones is something that people seem to be averse to. Bones left lying around the yard, messy bits on the floor, possibility of splintering and choking, are just a few concerns. Yet raw meaty bones are a major component of what your dog needs and wants in their diet. Bones are not necessarily something to play with or occupy a bored dog. What they offer your dog is the opportunity to rip, tear, chew, gnaw and consume a food that contains a range of essential nutrients.

Raw bones are a great balanced source of calcium, phosphorus and good fats plus they act as a natural toothbrush for your dog, cleaning teeth and gums and exercising the jaw.

The health benefits of a raw meaty bone are just the best for you dog. The best bones are those with meat still attached. These bones are relatively soft, and your dog should be able to eat the whole bone. The emphasis is on the RAW and never feed a dog a COOKED bone. Cooked bones can easily splinter and may cause serious damage to a dog’s intestines, throat or mouth and could cause choking.

There are raw meaty bones and there are recreational bones.

Larger, longer, weight bearing bones, are known as recreational or marrow bones. These bones can be chewed on for hours, and do have some dental benefits, but your dog may not be able to digest such a large, hard bone. So, you may find these ones discarded around the back yard!

What is most important is that you choose the bone most appropriate for your dog.

Examples of different types of raw meaty bones that can be chewed and eaten include: