Dogs can technically eat raw meat, but it comes with significant risks and is generally not recommended by most veterinarians. Raw meat can carry harmful bacteria and parasites such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and others, which can make dogs sick and also pose risks to humans in the household through contamination. Additionally, a diet of raw meat alone does not provide the complete and balanced nutrition dogs need for optimal health. Feeding raw meat safely requires careful handling, hygienic preparation, and often consultation with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet is nutritionally balanced. Raw meat diets may mimic what wild dogs eat but domesticated dogs have different dietary needs and immune systems than their wild ancestors. Cooking meat kills harmful bacteria, making it a safer option for dogs and humans alike. Raw meat can be part of a dog's diet if it is commercially prepared and balanced, but feeding homemade raw meat diets without proper knowledge can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health risks. Vulnerable populations like young puppies, older dogs, and immunocompromised humans are at higher risk from raw meat diets. In summary, dogs can eat raw meat but with caution due to the risks of bacterial infection and nutritional imbalance, and it is usually safer and healthier to feed cooked or commercial balanced dog foods.
