Before domestication, dogs relied heavily on raw diets, including raw meat. Raw meat, therefore, delights their instincts. But can Frenchies eat raw meat? We dig deeper into this and give you three types of raw meat to avoid. We also give you the benefits and risks of raw meat. Let’s start.
Can Frenchies Eat Raw Meat?
Yes. Raw meat, if handled properly, is safe for Frenchies. However, there are high chances of infection from parasites and bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. The key here is how the raw meat is handled.
Benefits of Raw Meat for Frenchies
Properly handled raw meat has its benefits. Here are the reasons why pet parents go for a raw diet:
Skin and coat health
Raw meat is a powerhouse of proteins, fats, zinc, and vitamin E. These nutrients are important for a healthy coat and skin. Commercial dog foods for coat and skin wellness include these nutrients.
Better digestion
Raw meat is easier to digest than kibble. Faster digestion ensures maximum absorption for fast results. This also translates to less stool and stinkiness.
Reduced health problems
Consuming a raw diet lowers the chances of certain health problems, including diabetes. This claim, however, requires further research. Since this has not been confirmed, it is important to consult the vet for dogs with any health issues.
Dental and breath wellness
Compared to canned recipes, raw meat removes plaque and tartar in dogs with dental issues. This is according to a study done on Beagles. The study, however, used raw meat with bone fragments. The results may, therefore, not be similar for raw meat without bones.
Biological alignment
Before domestication, dogs consumed raw diets. This satisfied their instincts. Serving raw meat to your dog delights its instincts and awakens the beast within.
Risks of Feeding Raw Meat to French Bulldogs
We have looked at the benefits of raw meat. It, however, has its risks.
Bacteria and parasites
Cooking destroys bacteria and parasites. Raw meat, therefore, has a higher risk of bacteria. Consuming raw meat exposes your dog to gastrointestinal problems and other infections.
Although French Bulldogs are less predisposed to bacterial infections, serving them raw meat exposes your family, especially the elderly and children, to infections. It is, therefore, advisable to avoid raw meat in households with immunocompromised individuals.
Evolved needs
Long ago, dogs lived in the wild. They were used to wild and raw foods. But after domestication, Frenchies stay with us in our houses. Their diets, therefore, have changed. They have increased amylase secretion, which allows them to digest starch. Modern dogs are susceptible to sensitivities and allergies unlike their ancient counterparts.
Poor regulation
There are no regulations on raw diets. This is according to the AVMA. Raw diets have high levels of vitamins A and D. They are also high in calcium and phosphorus. Therefore, Consuming a raw diet exposes your Frenchie to the risk of having more certain nutrients while lacking others.
How to Reduce the Risk of Feeding Dogs Raw Meat
Here are some of the ways to lower these risks:
Quality and hygiene
Meat quality is one of the most crucial elements in providing your pup with a balanced diet and minimizing the dangers of feeding it raw. The meat you purchase should always be fresh. Handling and cleaning techniques are also very important.
- If you won’t give your dog the meat immediately, freeze it.
- Separate raw meats from other foods at all times.
- Utilize hot water and soap to wash your preparation surfaces and serving bowls.
- Wash your hands before and after handling raw meat.
Caution with bones
Although raw bones are safe for dogs, caution is key as they can be a choking hazard. Ensure the bone is large enough. Cooked bones are soft and can easily break, causing choking and blockages.
Senior dogs and puppies
Senior Frenchies have weak immunity. They are also susceptible to sensitive stomachs. On the other hand, Frenchie puppies are still developing and require a balanced diet. Their immunity may also not be as developed as that of adult Frenchies. It is critical to consult the vet before introducing a raw diet to senior and puppy Frenchies.
Balanced nutrition
Raw diets may not provide balanced nutrition for Frenchies. Balanced nutrition ensures proper growth and development as it includes all essential nutrients.
Which Raw Meat Recipes and Parts Can Be Eaten Safely by Frenchies?
Raw Pork
Cooked pork is nutritious for your dog. Raw pork, on the other hand, has a parasite called Trichinella spiralis, which causes trichinosis. Common signs to watch out for include lethargy, fever, muscle inflammation, and stomach upsets.
So, can Frenchies eat raw pork? No. French Bulldogs cannot eat raw pork. Raw pork has parasites that cause infections.
Raw Beef
Compared to white foods like chicken or fish, beef is red meat from a cow or bull. Beef has the highest iron content. Although it is frequently used in steaks or burgers, beef is also standard in corned beef and sausages. In addition to being a good source of protein, beef also has a lot of fat, zinc, iron, selenium, phosphorus, vitamins B12, B6, and B3, as well as various amino acids and antioxidants.
So, can Frenchies eat raw beef? Yes. Raw beef in small amounts is safe for Frenchies. It has nutrients that support its overall wellness. Ensure the beef is properly handled.
Raw Lamb
Although lamb is a good source of protein for dogs, serving it to them raw increases their risk of contracting infections like E. coli and salmonella. These bacteria frequently cause digestive disorders. Puppies, dogs suffering from cancer, liver or kidney disease, or puppies should not eat raw meat.
So, can Frenchies eat raw lamb? Yes. Healthy Frenchies can eat well-handled raw lamb in small amounts. Improper handling causes disease.
Raw Goat
Cooked goat meat is a healthy substitute for a variety of meats. Although it is leaner than beef and chicken and has a similar texture, it is still a fantastic nutritional option for your dog.
What about raw goat meat? Can French Bulldogs eat raw goat meat? Yes. Raw goat meat is a healthier option than other raw meats, but it’s crucial to ensure it comes from a reliable source. It’s critical to ensure that raw goat meat is devoid of bacteria and parasites.
Since it can be difficult to confirm, it is generally advisable to completely forgo giving your Frenchie any raw meat rather than take the risk.
Raw Chicken
Chicken is an excellent protein source. It is also rich in minerals and vitamins, like potassium and B12. Despite these benefits, raw chicken comes with a risk. It has bacteria, including Salmonella and Campylobacter, which cause abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, lethargy, and vomiting.
So, can Frenchies eat raw chicken? Although Frenchies can consume raw chicken, it is not advisable. The risks outweigh the benefits. If you decide to give raw chicken to your dog, ensure it is well-prepared and boneless.
Raw Turkey
In contrast to cooked turkey, a lean and healthy source of protein for dogs, raw turkey poses a danger of bacterial infection, including salmonella. This bacteria frequently causes digestive disorders. An extended raw beef diet might also result in an imbalanced diet. Pups suffering from cancer, liver or kidney failure, or puppies should not consume raw turkey.
So, can Frenchies eat raw turkey? Serving raw turkey as a treat is okay. Do not make it a frequent meal. Avoid raw turkey in sick Frenchies.
Raw Duck
Duck is a rich source of iron and proteins. It is also a powerhouse of amino acids. Foods made with duck are the best alternatives for French Bulldogs with sensitivities or allergies.
So, can Frenchies eat raw duck? No. Raw duck contains salmonella and E. coli, which are harmful to dogs. A raw duck may also include bones that can easily choke your Frenchie.
Raw Rabbit
Like duck, rabbit is an excellent alternative protein source for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. However, raw rabbits may not be the best. For various reasons, feeding your dog raw rabbits can be dangerous. First, your dog may contract various parasites and diseases from rabbits. Second, splintered, raw bones can harm internal organs or obstruct blood flow.
So, can Frenchies eat raw rabbits? No. Raw rabbit comes with loads of risks. It is, therefore, preferable to refrain from giving your Frenchie this potentially harmful treat, even though it might be tempting to eat a raw rabbit.
Raw Seafood
Seafood, including salmon and flounder, is rich in nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals, which support your dog’s overall wellness. Raw seafood, however, contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that cause infections. Pregnant dogs and puppies are at higher risk.
So, can Frenchies eat raw seafood? No.
Salmonella and Listeria are two dangerous bacteria that could be present in raw seafood. Besides making your dog sick, raw seafood might make you and other family members sick.
Small children, who might come into contact with your dog’s saliva more frequently than adults, and those with weakened immune systems should be especially concerned about this. If you decide to feed your dog raw seafood, follow the FDA’s guidelines for meal preparation, including thoroughly cleaning the preparation surfaces and washing your hands.
Raw Game Meats
Dogs can become ill from eating raw game meat. Dogs are susceptible to all the parasites and diseases passed from game to wolves, foxes, and other scavengers and predators.
So, can Frenchies eat raw game meats? No. Raw game meats harbor bacteria and parasites that cause diseases.
Best Ways To Serve Raw Meat For Your Frenchie
Firmer stools, improved digestion, and improved coat and skin wellness are some benefits of raw meat. Here’s a recipe to try at home:
Beef and chicken recipe
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds of lean ground beef
- 4 ounces of chicken liver
- 1 chopped carrot
- 1 cored apple
- ½ cup of baby spinach
- 2 whole eggs
- ½ cup of plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Procedure
- Put the carrot, baby spinach, and apple in a food processor.
- Once they are finely chopped, add chicken liver, eggs, plain yogurt, flaxseed, and olive oil.
- Process until finely chopped.
- In a large bowl, mix the chopped ingredients with ground beef.
Which Dog Food Brands Use Raw Meat in Their Foods?
Raw meat has many benefits; high-quality dog food brands include it in their recipes.
- Instinct: Their recipe Instinct Grain-Free Freeze-Dried uses raw ingredients, including raw beef, for maximum nutrient absorption and improved digestion. The formula lacks grains (wheat, corn, soy, or legumes). It has a protein content of 36% for muscle wellness.
- Bixbi: Their recipe Bixbi Rawbble Grain-Free Lamb Freeze-Dried Formula is a limited-ingredient formula featuring lamb as the first ingredient. There are no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives. Its protein content of 46% keeps your Frenchie muscles strong.
Further reading: 10 Best Raw Dog Food
What if my dog ate raw meat?
Likely, your Frenchie won’t have any problems if they consume uncooked meat from the supermarket. Contact your veterinarian nonetheless if you have any concerns or observe anything unusual after it has eaten raw food.
Avoid These Three Types Of Meat
Denatured Meat
Also known as 3D or 4D, denatured meat is not good for your Frenchie. Such meats come from dead, diseased, or dying animals. During manufacturing, denatured meat is colored to show that it is not right for humans. The coloring process involves the use of harmful chemicals, including:
- Charcoal liquid
- Activated charcoal
- Cresylic disinfectant
- Kerosene fuel
- Crude carbolic acid
Though it is legal to manufacture 3D and 4D meat, the chances of exposing your dog t long-term health problems are high. This is because denatured meat comes from dead, dying, or diseased animals. The chemicals used in the denaturing process are also harmful to your Frenchie. So it is best to avoid denatured, 3D, or 4D meat.
How To Feed Raw Meat To Your Dog Safely
If you decide to feed raw meat to your dog, here are some tips to ensure you serve it correctly:
- Look for quality meat from a reputable source.
- Clean hands before and after handling raw meat.
- Chop meat to avoid choking.
- Clean the preparation area.
- Refrigerate unconsumed raw meat.
Avoid raw meat in sick dogs, puppies, and seniors.
Sick dogs, puppies, and senior dogs have weak immunity, and raw meat exposes them to other health issues. Senior dogs also have sensitive tummies, and raw meat may worsen. Puppies are still growing and need a balanced diet.
What raw meat can I give my French Bulldog?
Well-prepared raw meat is okay for your Frenchie. Ensure the meat is from a trusted source, and clean the preparation area. Refrigerate any leftover raw meat.
How much raw meat should I feed my Frenchie?
A decent guideline is to feed 2% to 4% of your dog’s body weight. Divide the daily portion into two for morning and evening.
Can French Bulldogs eat raw chicken?
Generally, Frenchies should not eat raw chicken, as it has salmonella. Chicken bones are also a choking hazard. Well-handled and boneless raw chicken is safe as a treat.
Is it good to feed a Frenchie raw meat?
Sometimes feeding your Frenchie raw meat is okay. The meat should be from a reputable source and well-prepared.
Is raw or cooked meat better for French Bulldogs?
Cooked meat is better for Frenchies. Cooking kills bacteria and other pathogens that can cause infections.
Read more: Is Raw or Cooked Dog Food Better for Frenchies?
Can Frenchies eat raw eggs?
Although Frenchies can eat raw eggs, raw eggs have bacteria and salmonella, which expose dogs to infections. Consuming raw eggs can also lead to a biotin deficiency.
What meat is best for French Bulldogs?
Cooked chicken, beef, turkey, and salmon are best for French Bulldogs. Cooking is the safest way to make meat healthy for your dog.
Can I feed my dog a raw food diet?
Yes. You can feed your Frenchie a raw food diet. A raw food diet has lots of nutrients. Proper handling is, however, key.
Is it okay to feed dogs raw meat?
Although it’s okay for dogs to consume raw meat, many vets and groups like the CDC don’t advise doing so. This is because improperly handled raw meat has bacteria and other pathogens.
Is it better to feed dogs raw or cooked meat?
Cooked meat is the best for dogs. Cooking destroys bacteria and other pathogens, making meat safe for your Frenchie. Raw meat can easily get contaminated.
Which raw meat is best for dogs?
Some of the raw meats safe for dogs include chicken and beef. The meat should, however, be properly handled, as poor handling exposes your dog to health problems.
Does raw meat make dogs stronger?
Raw meat delights dogs’ instincts. However, there is no scientific evidence showing raw meat makes dogs stronger.
What meat should dogs not eat?
Dogs should not eat gammon and bacon grease. Gammon and bacon grease have a lot of fat and salt that cause health issues like pancreatitis and dehydration.
Is Raw Meat Good for Frenchies? Key Takeaways
So, can Frenchies eat raw meat?
Although French Bulldogs can safely consume raw meat, it is not usually advised because the hazards outweigh the advantages. If you provide raw meat to your Frenchie, ensure it comes from a trustworthy supplier. Also crucial is preparation. Maintain cleanliness in the preparation area and handle the meat with care.
Poor handling exposes your Frenchie to the risk of infection from contamination, bacteria, and other pathogens. Most raw meats also include bones, which can cause choking and life-threatening blockages. Always consult the vet before giving raw meat to your Frenchie.