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Can Dogs Eat Beets? How To Use Beets For Allergies, Liver Health & Immunity

May 2, 2022 by Debbie

Can dogs eat beets? Which kind of beets are you asking about? Red beets? Golden beets? Sugar beets? We’re going to answer all those questions as well as many others. What’s more, we’re going to leave you singing — wait and see!

Are Beets Good for Dogs?

In the wild, the wolf ancestors of dogs were not pure carnivores. Not only did they feed on the different kinds of prey they caught, but they took advantage of other available nutrition sources such as eggs, insects, fish, vomit, and poop. In addition, they also ate their prey’s stomach contents containing plant material.

We’ve all seen our dogs eat grasses as well as a variety of vegetables and fruits. Beets are just one of many veggies that make an excellent canine dietary supplement when prepared correctly. Moreover, others include carrots, peas, green beans, sweet potatoes, cucumbers, and squash such as zucchini. Check out our Tips for Happy Tails often because we post new articles on pet nutrition all the time!

What’s the Best Food for Dogs?

If you’re one of those people always reading food labels, good! That’s important. However, you need to know how to read between the lines to understand what “beef dinner” or “meat meal” or “complete and balanced” really means. Labels present as well as hide a lot of information because they’re composed by marketing experts, not nutritionists.

One way to ensure that your dog gets the best food possible is to make it yourself using the right balance of fresh, organic ingredients. Have you ever made pancakes from scratch? Even if you haven’t, you know from common sense that you don’t add eight crocodile eggs to a half cup of flour, and you don’t fry the batter in WD-40 oil. The ingredients have to be digestible and in the right proportion. So it is with natural dog food.

An increasingly popular way of providing pets with delicious and healthful meals is with the BARF diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food. When you know the basics of canine nutrition, you know exactly what ingredients will do more than meet the bare minimum legal requirements the way most commercial foods are formulated.

They will make your beloved buddy feel good all the time. About your question “Can dogs eat beets?” — just keep reading to find out why the answer is YES.

How Do Beets Improve Dogs’ Health? Benefits of Beetroot For Dogs

can dogs eat beets raw

Whenever dog lovers ask a question like “Can dogs eat beets?”, they show how much they care. As you can see below, beets contain a wealth of nourishment as well as many other micronutrients not listed:

  • Beta-carotene: Precursor to Vitamin A aiding in skin and coat health as well as eyes, immune system, and mucus membranes
  • Betalains and other anti-oxidants: Appear to have therapeutic benefits for oxidative stress and inflammation
  • Fiber: Needed for digestion, blood sugar stabilization, fat metabolism, and a sensation of satisfaction after eating
  • Iron: Needed to form blood and aid in energy metabolism
  • Magnesium: Needed for enzyme and hormone function, cell membranes, and formation of bones and teeth
  • Manganese: Needed for enzyme function, nerve function, and bone development
  • Nitrates: Plant-sourced nitrates promote blood vessel health and lower blood pressure
  • Potassium: Needed for nerve function, enzyme function, and blood chemistry
  • Vitamin A: Needed for growth, vision, and immune function
  • Vitamin B9 (folate): Needed for protein synthesis and metabolism and hemoglobin function
  • Vitamin B12: Needed for enzyme function, white blood cells, appetite
  • Vitamin C: Did you know that dogs don’t need a source of vitamin C because their bodies manufacture it?

Scientists are actively exploring many aspects of beet nutrition, so keep your eyes peeled for updates on this exciting topic.

How to Use Beets for Dog Allergies

beet for dog allergies

Although scientists are discovering more and more about allergies and inflammation all the time, there’s still a lot to learn. Allergic reactions are the result of an overactive and misguided immune system. It appears that many allergic and inflammatory conditions result from continued exposure to toxins as well as a chronically imbalanced diet.

One of the best things you can do for your pets’ health is to learn about the benefits of organic, natural foods from clean sources and fed in the right proportions. If clean food is good for you, why wouldn’t it be good for your pets? Canines have different dietary requirements from humans, but clean is clean.

Can dogs eat beets as part of a clean BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet? Absolutely yes! Beets contain several nutrients that are very beneficial for skin and immune system health. Be sure to feed as recommended without overdoing it.

Are Beets Safe for Dogs?

Can dogs eat beets as much as they want? No. The liquid with canned beets has a high sodium content plus chemicals leached from the coatings used to line the cans. The skin of raw beets is tough and can cause choking or intestinal blockage. Being naturally acidic, beets can irritate the digestive tract of some dogs, causing vomiting or diarrhea.

paw prints

Beets are high in oxalates which, when ingested in excess, can contribute to kidney stones. Oxalates also bind with calcium and iron, preventing their absorption. They can also aggravate gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and allergies. To minimize these issues, choose organic beets and be sure to wash them well and peel the roots.

Can Dogs Eat Beets Raw?

Cows chew their cud to make it more digestible, so you can make raw beets more digestible for your pooch by peeling and grating them and then pureeing or mashing them. If you want to lightly cook them, blanching and steaming will preserve the nutrients better than other methods.

Can Dogs Have Beet Juice?

Can dogs eat beets? By now you know the answer is definitely yes, but the answer about beet juice might surprise you. First, the red liquid sloshing around inside cans of beets is not beet juice — it’s mostly salty water dyed by the beets. It has very few nutrients but can contain BPA (bisphenol A) and other compounds found in polycarbonate plastics used for food containers and for lining metal cans.

Real beet juice is made from water and pureed beetroot. Since beets are higher in sugar than most vegetables, the juice is very sweet. Your dog is better off having beetroot mixed in food, and a big bowl of fresh water on the side. The juice can result in a sudden sugar spike for dogs with diabetes.

Can Dogs Eat Pickled Beets?

can dogs have pickled beets

An occasional slice or pickle bit usually won’t cause a problem, but most pickles contain ingredients that aren’t good for your dogs. As a matter of fact, many pickling ingredients are contrary to our dogs’ health in large doses. You definitely want to avoid pickled snacks for pooches with kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, or weight problems. Here are the culprits:

  • Salt/sodium: Can raise blood pressure and aggravate certain medical conditions such as kidney and heart disease
  • Vinegar: Is acidic and can cause digestive upsets, bad for dogs with kidney disease
  • Sugar: Fattening, bad for dogs with diabetes, cardiac conditions, and obesity
  • Xylitol: Sugar substitute highly toxic to dogs
  • Myristicin in cinnamon and nutmeg: Toxic to dogs
  • Onion: Toxic to dogs
  • Garlic: Toxic to dogs if not given correctly

How To Prepare Beets For Dogs

Choose organically grown beets and use them at their freshest. Scrub them to remove unwanted residues and spray or rinse the greens thoroughly. Peel the skin from the beetroot. Store unused portions in the refrigerator or freeze.

dog recipe

BEETS FOR DOGS — A HEALTHY & TASTY DOG FOOD RECIPE

INGREDIENTS:

Chicken: 2lb./900 kg. chicken breasts
Beets: 1 large or 2 small fresh beets, peeled
Greens: Bag of mixed leafy greens
Brown rice: 1 cup (250 ml)
Yogurt: 1/2 cup

DIRECTIONS:

  • Bake the chicken breast at 350F about 20 minutes until the juices run clear.
  • Add beets and cook for about 30-35 minutes.
  • Cook rice and add an extra 1/2 cup water.
  • Add mixed leafy greens to rice mixture while cooking.
  • Grate beets and cube chicken breast.
  • Combine everything.
  • Call your dog for dinner!

https://www.wagthedoguk.com/2015/01/13/beets-for-dogs-recipe


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dog recipe

OATMEAL, BANANA, AND BEET DOG TREATS

INGREDIENTS:

1 mashed banana
1 beet, peeled
1 cup flour
1 cup oats
¼ Cup plain yogurt

DIRECTIONS:

  • Add 2 inches of water into pot and bring to a boil.
  • Add beet to steaming basket and place in the steamer pot. Steam until tender, about 25 minutes.
  • Remove pot, let cool.
  • Preheat oven to 350F.
  • Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mash cooled beet until smooth.
  • Put oats into a blender or food processor and make into a flour consistency.
  • Mix beet, banana, and yogurt together.
  • Fold in flour and oats.
  • Form a dough ball and roll out on a flat, floured surface.
  • Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
  • Place shapes onto cookie sheets.
  • Back at 350 degrees for 11- 14 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool down at least 30 minutes.
  • Store in airtight container, but first don’t forget to share one or two with the dog.

NOTES:
Roll dough out on parchment paper for easier clean-up.
Place parchment paper on cooling rack before placing cookies on the rack
Wear gloves to work with this dough unless you don’t mind pink hands.

https://www.housethatbarks.com/oatmeal-banana-and-beet-dog-treats/2

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dog recipe

BEET COOKIES FOR DOGS

INGREDIENTS:

8 oz. cooked beets
1 cup + 1 Tbsp whole wheat flour (or flour of your choice)
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp coconut oil (or oil of your choice)
Sour Cream Icing optional if you want to frost cookies

Sour Cream Icing
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tsp honey
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp water
1-2 drops of leftover beet puree

INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place beets in food processor or blender and process until pureed.
  • In the bowl of a stand mixer or in a large bowl with a hand mixer or wooden spoon, combine flour, baking powder, pureed beets, honey, and coconut oil. Mix until combined, taking care not to over-mix.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to about ¼” thick. Using whatever cookie cutter you desire, cut out shapes from cookie dough. Place on prepared baking sheet about an inch apart.
  • Bake cookies for 15 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving to a metal rack to cool completely.
  • Once cookies are cool, top with sour cream icing. You can either spread on with a spatula or pipe on with a pastry bag.

Sour Cream Icing
Put sour cream, honey, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl and whisk together. Add in a little bit of beet puree or natural food coloring to give icing a pink tinge if desired.

NOTES:
Keep a little bit of the beet puree to the side to use to color your icing.
Feel free to use any type of flour and oil you want for these cookies.
Mention @wearenotmartha and share a photo if you’ve made the recipe!

https://wearenotmartha.com/beet-cookies-for-dogs/3

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Why You Should Feed Your Dog Beets

You should feed your dog beets from local organic sources because it supports your community, your country, and your planet. In fact, if you want to plant beets in your garden for your canine buddy and you to share, they’re not difficult to grow if you live in a cooler climate. Gardening is a great activity to enjoy together!

FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dogs Eat Beet Greens?

Like the beetroot, beet greens should be fed in moderation because they contain high levels of oxalates and nitrates. These two compounds work together to cause the same kind of kidney problems that beets can bring on if consumed in large amounts. They’re very nutritious for humans as well as dogs, but go easy.

Can Dogs Eat Beets Of Different Colors?

Red beets are the most nutritious for your canine buddy. While golden beets are high in antioxidants, they’re also a little higher in sugar. White beets are the sweetest, contributing over half of the domestic sugar production in the United States.

Are Beets Good For The Liver?

Is beetroot good for dogs

The liver is a busy organ in the body. It works 24/7 filtering every drop of blood to identify and detoxify harmful compounds but it has to be healthy to function. In addition, beets not only contribute iron but also a significant number of antioxidants to fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

Will Red Beets Make Dogs’ Pee and Poop Turn Pink Or Purple?

Compounds in red beets have been used for hundreds of years as a natural dye. Did you know that some Victorians used it to color their hair? It definitely can add an unusual but temporary pink or red tinge to your pooch’s pee and poop.

Final Thoughts

Can dogs eat beets? Now you know. And the more you know, the more power you have to change life for the better for you and your canine companions. From now on, maybe one of Sonny and Cher’s famous songs will remind you of the many health benefits of this beautiful vegetable and you won’t be able to stop yourself from singing, “And the beet goes on … and the beet goes on!”

paw prints

Resources for More Information

Why beets can’t be beat for humans:
https://explore.globalhealing.com/benefits-of-beets/

Learn more about canine nutrition:
https://nap.nationalacademies.org/resource/10668/dog_nutrition_final_fix.pdf

Information about the BARF Diet:
https://perfectlyrawsome.com/raw-feeding-knowledgebase/biologically-appropriate-raw-food-barf-adult-dogs/

Curious about a BEETles song written with a sound in it that only your dog can hear?
https://www.gigwise.com/news/85705/

How Long Do Crickets Live? The Amazing Cricket

April 28, 2022 by Debbie

Crickets have long been a fascinating insect to humanity as a whole since the beginning of their discovery in time. Depending on how we choose to perceive crickets and their many varieties has developed our initial approach to how long do crickets live?

Generally, we have always heard crickets before we have ever seen them. Their sound is a soothing symphony to most of us everywhere we go in the warmer weather and, evenings of the year. Their sound tells us that everything is okay.

It is always so impressive when we are out camping and listening to the cricket chorus in the evening when all of the sudden for some reason they all come to a complete cricket chirping stop and the forest is completely silent. Then one cricket starts chirping then several more and then the entire cricket symphony begins again.

One of the many benefits of camping and being in the woods.

How Long Do Crickets Live?

Crickets do not survive for more than a year. A field cricket dies in winter, but house crickets can survive the low temperature and live for a year inside the warm temperature of a home. On the other hand, mole crickets live deep under the ground for two years. The cricket life cycle has three stages: egg, nymph, and adult.

Crickets have four stages in their life cycle. It begins with breeding and around two weeks later the female lays her eggs in her chosen location.

where do crickets live

Crickets As Pets? It Is Possible

They make great pets to observe but are not the touchy-feely type. If you can make your cricket feel comfortable he or she will stay with you. Most crickets in the wild will see you coming and very quickly leave into whatever cover that they are close to. But there are those exceptions when cricket will jump on you or near you and that will enable you to begin the relationship-building process with the cricket, those are wonderful moments.

So, depending on how you obtain your cricket, it is best if you have a small aquarium. Next, give them a comfortable environment to observe and feed them in. Then give them objects to go in and crawl on. They do have a very curious side to them if they don’t feel threatened. This means that they will hang out with you on your hand or arm with very little movement on your part.

Go Catch A Cricket

One thing we suggest to people that are interested in having cricket as a pet is to go outside and catch one. You will instantly notice that depending on the age of the cricket that you catch is that some are more curious about you than others. They have very individual personalities. So, keep catching carefully until you catch the cricket that works for and with you.

This may take a moment because after finding them most crickets will be afraid of being approached and caught. Imagine a giant reaching down to pick you up. It brings fear to most people just thinking about it. The key to it is your approach. It should be slow and methodical.

Then once caught be still with them in your hand. Give them a moment to acclimate to being caught and in your hand. This moment of stillness will determine your relationship with your new friend. It will allow the cricket to relax and determine your intentions. If done right your cricket will stay with you. If not it will jump away. No worries just try again with another cricket. The better you get at being still the sooner your cricket will stay with you.

Yes. It is important to let the cricket choose you as well. Cricket has a choice too. Do not just catch the cricket and put it in a container. The cricket that stays with you is your new friend and pet. Love it well.

Crickets And Their Sound Of Music

When crickets make their sound it is the males calling out to the females that we hear. They do this by rubbing their wings together which makes the sound that attracts the females. Also, chirping is used to drive off other males and is a territorial display. The frequency of the cricket chirp is around 9,000 to 10,000 Hz. http://songsofinsects.com/biology-of-insect-song

Where Do Crickets Live? In The Wild

how long do crickets live

Crickets are pretty versatile with where they like to hang out and a lot of it has to do with a food source, water, climate, and preditors. So when you ask where do crickets live? It is just about anywhere where there is dirt a food source and a little bit of moisture some shade or darkness. They are pretty hardy insects as long as the environment is right.

They prefer shadows and darker places because they are nocturnal which means they prefer to be out at night and call out for their mates at night as well. Hence, their beautiful chorus in the evenings and all through the night. What peaceful joy it is to hear.

You can find crickets at the base of almost anything in nature, plants, rocks, foliage, the root base of grass where it is cool when it is hot and when it is cool where it is warm. The roots are an ideal place for the females to deposit their eggs that will hatch in about two weeks or the following season if the weather is starting to get cold.

They like to be out of sight of predators which is not an easy task for crickets. Crickets are on the menu of birds, lizards, rats, frogs, mice even kitty cats, and more. After crickets pass on the ants will make a quick clean-up of their little insect bodies. It is always interesting to watch the ants bring the cricket parts back to their house for food.

Click Here To Listen To Audios Of Various Types Of Crickets

Crickets Indoors – Crickets In The House

We have crickets in the house during the summer months. They come in where it is cooler away from the heat. Their chirping in the house is a giveaway to us and also the cats to find them and start playing with them.

That usually determines how long do crickets live in our house if we are not there to rescue the cricket and put it outside away from the kitty cats.

How Long Do Crickets Live Without Food Or Water?

The answer varies depending upon the temperature and the availability of food and a water source. Generally, to determine how long do crickets live it is dehydration that will get them first because they can eat just about anything if they have to.

From wallpaper to leather that has had food or oil on it to the fabric on your furniture it is all fair game for Crickets to eat. Also, the clothes in your closet other insects, fruit, and dead carcass even each other if there is no other food source the dominant cricket will prevail.

Generally how long do crickets live is around a week or two without food or water depending on the environment that they are in. They can live up to a year if the environment is right.

How Do Crickets Reproduce 

The male calls out to the female by chirping. He rubs his wings together to make his soothing sound. The sound that they make is species-specific so that he attracts the right female to him. When she arrives the male and female mate.

She then carries the seamen with her fertilizing her eggs and moves on to deposit her eggs in the ground or a chosen location. She does this by inserting a long tube from her abdomen into the ground that is called an ovipositor.

The female can lay quite a few eggs per day. After she deposits her egg in about two weeks the young emerge from their eggs as nymphs. They are very small and do not have wings at this point in their journey. If the eggs are laid in the fall months the eggs will hatch the following spring when the weather is warmer and conducive to the youngs success.

The young go through a series of moltings. This is where the outside of their body coverings crack open and they emerge as a new and larger cricket. They walk out of the clear covering and leave it behind. This can occur about six to eight times to the point that they are adults and have grown wings.

FAQ

How Do Crickets Hear?

Crickets have small eardrums behind their knees on their legs that allow them to hear sound and feel vibrations. They spend a lot of time cleaning their legs so they stay clean but also to keep their hearing in perfect order.

How To Identify A Male Or Female Cricket

The Females have two antennae looking like things coming out of the back of their abdomen called cerci. The middle antennae is the ovipositor which she uses to lays her eggs through. The males have only two antennae or cerci at the end of their abdomen.

What Do Crickets Like To Eat?

what do crickets eat

When it comes to how long do crickets live Crickets are Omnivorous which means they can eat both plant and animal parts or just about whatever is available to them. This attribute makes them highly successful in the insect world. Being able to eat whatever is available increases their chance of survival and allows them to adapt to changing environments.

How Long Do Crickets Chirp At Night?

A Cricket’s day is at night. This is called nocturnal behavior when they do their living during their day at night. You will hear Crickets chirp during the day because they are in a dark place or under something that keeps the light away from them but that is the exception and not the rule. The warmer the weather the louder the chirping because they are simply more active in a warmer climate.

Crickets have different chirps for different occasions. They call out louder to attract female crickets. They tone it down when females approach and mate with the males and they have a softer after courtship chirp when they are done matting.

Male crickets have a loud aggressive chirp to ward off other competing male crickets and it is a way to also get the females to pay attention to them as well.

It is the male cricket that creates the sound of chirping to attract the females and they do this by rubbing ruff spots together on their wings. The left-wing has many ribs on it and this area is called the file. The right-wing is called the scraper and when the Cricket learns how to play his wings by rubbing them together he produces the sounds of attraction and repulsion that we hear at night and in the warmer weather of the year.

What Is The Difference Between Crickets And Grasshoppers?

whats the difference between grasshoppers an crickets

At first glance, it appears that there are not many differences between Crickets and Grasshoppers but upon closer examination, there are striking differences.

Because Crickets are active during the nighttime hours they have colors that correspond with the night such as shades of blacks and browns tans and light greens. Better to blend in and hide from predators that determine how long do crickets live.

Grasshoppers are out during the day and correspondingly they have shades of greens and browns coloring to match the foliage that they are on or around. Again blending into the environment that they are in so that they are not as obvious to predators.

When it comes to size the Grasshopper is larger. Anywhere from one and a half inches to four inches long. The Cricket will size in at around three-quarters of an inch to two inches long.

Also, the Grasshopper has larger back legs than do Crickets.

Crickets have longer antennae than do Grasshoppers.

Do Crickets Fly?

Yes, some do. In particular, when it comes to how long do crickets live the House Cricket and the Field Cricket have wings and do fly as a means of avoiding predators or danger. There are Crickets that do not have wings and mainly live in the ground such as the Jerusalem Cricket.

The Camel Cricket does not have wings and on an interesting note is not part of the Gryllidae family but it looks like a Cricket and is often seen and is so associated with Crickets.

Concluding Thoughts

How long do crickets live? Well, we’ve talked about not only the actual time frames that crickets do live but about the conditions and factors that determine the cricket’s lifespan.  The identification between a cricket and a grasshopper should be clear now and how you can befriend these beautiful creatures. And now you know their favorite habitats and intricate details about their unique anatomy such as how crickets hear.  Above all, crickets create a beautiful symphony for us during certain seasons if we only tune in and receive their bountiful gift.  

Other Posts of Interest

What Do Butterflies Eat? And How To Attract Them To Your Yard
Cockatiel Lifespan: Everything You Need To Know Guide 2022
Where Do Seagulls Sleep? Gulls Sleep In The Open

Great Dane Lifespan: Complete Guide To A Long Life

April 20, 2022 by Debbie

How long do Great Danes live? Not long enough! The world would be a better place if there were more of these friendly, affectionate, playful, gentle giants. Although the average Great Dane lifespan is only 7-10 years, you have it within your power to add to it. And we’re going to tell you all the ways you can do just that!

Why Do People Love Great Danes?

In addition to their comically expressive faces, Great Danes have an endearing temperament and personality. First, do you know the difference between temperament and personality? Temperament refers to an inborn genetic tendency toward certain behaviors.

In other words, temperament is a natural predisposition. Personality, on the other hand, is one’s identity based on temperament but developed over the years. It includes learned behaviors from parental upbringing, cultural surroundings, and exposure to other influences. Here are a few of the especially lovable traits that Great Danes possess:

  • Playfulness and Humor: Dane lovers observe that their dogs seem to respond to the sound of human laughter and quickly learn to keep doing things to make people laugh more.
  • Loyalty: Sometimes called “velcro dogs,” Danes bond closely with their humans with a high level of affection and devotion. They like to lean on you and want to cuddle in your lap.
  • Companionability: As a breed, Great Danes are generally accepting of new friends of all ages.
  • Tolerance and Gentleness: They demonstrate amazing patience toward the antics of small children, puppies, and other such lively creatures. As adults, they seem to sense the need for gentleness and care during play. A word of caution: as exuberant puppies, not so much!
  • Big Hearts: These sweet dogs have sensitive feelings so don’t make fun of them. As a matter of fact, they literally do have big hearts! The dog is the animal with the largest heart-to-body-mass ratio, more than elephants and humans.

Great Dane Breed Characteristics & Interesting Facts

how long do great danes live

Why Are Great Danes So Big?

Dogs have been partnering with humans all over the world for thousands of years. Just as humans adapted to the demands of the local climate and activities of survival, so did dogs. Big hunting hounds appear in ancient Egyptian art as well as in ancient Chinese literature. By the Middle Ages, several different kinds of muscular dogs were used for hunting boars, bears, and other large animals.

It was only natural that dogs were included as valuable commodities traded among the various kingdoms. Many of the dogs were kept indoors to guard the families against invaders and assassins. Since most of the bloodlines came from Germany and England, the reason for the breed’s name change in the 1800s is unknown. Although originally bred to corner and hold game during the hunt, today these hounds are known for lacking a strong prey drive.

The Great Dane Body

Great Danes characteristically stand out not only for their size but for their powerful, heavily boned, smoothly muscled bodies. They can stand well over 40 inches at the shoulders and weigh 100-200 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. They have big heads, big mouths, big teeth, and big drool.

Their ears are typically big, too, and naturally floppy. For protection against boars’ tusks, hunting dogs’ ears were cropped. Today, since Danes are mostly companion animals, the practice of cropping has been banned in many countries or only legally performed by veterinary surgeons. There’s no health reason to deprive anybody of their ears.

Coat and Grooming Needs

The Great Dane coat is short and flat and comes in a variety of colors. The only color to avoid is pure white because it’s frequently linked genetically to vision and hearing disabilities. Do Great Danes shed? Not only are they moderate to heavy shedders, but there are also many more square inches of furry skin compared to most other dogs.

Almost all dogs shed. Canine coats are divided into two types: single and double. Double coats have a thick, soft undercoat covered by a long, thick overcoat of guard hairs. Danes have single coats without the insulating undercoat. They shed year-round but usually more during spring.

Besides good nutrition and general health maintenance, the best thing you can do to manage shedding is to brush your pooch’s coat often. Brushing is also a wonderful bonding activity to share because it’s calming and soothing.

A large shedding brush or bristle brush used a couple of times weekly is good, although using it daily is even better. Bathing too often will cause dry skin, so it’s important to use a pH-neutral shampoo formulated for dogs with natural ingredients instead of dyes and artificial additives.

Natural Tendencies of Great Danes

  • Barking: Low
  • Digging: Low
  • Drooling: High
  • Energy Level: Average
  • Guarding Ability: Althogh naturally protective of their households and intimidating with their size and deep bark, Danes are not naturally aggressive.
  • Heat Tolerance: High; they like hot weather
  • Metabolism: High; they grow fast and their bodies require lots of energy to function
  • Playfulness: High
  • Snoring: Low
  • Shedding: High; easy to groom but need regular and frequent grooming
  • Social Needs: High; they easily become lonely and need your company
  • Trainability: Generally eager to please but need attentive training due to size; can understand 150-250 words and hand signals; however, thinking beings with brains are susceptible to boredom
  • Water Behavior: Varies from individual to individual; can swim but not genetically bred to work in water; although their body shape is good for swimming, lean muscle is dense and heavy

Activity & Exercise

what do great danes eat

The right kind of regular activity and exercise will not only extend the Great Dane life expectancy but their quality of life as well. In addition, sharing active fun together will strengthen your shared social bond and probably extend your own life expectancy. Although your Dane might be content to lie around like a giant bag of couch potatoes, the pent-up energy will break loose sooner or later.

For optimum health provide up to two hours of activity daily in separate sessions lasting 20-40 minutes. One to three walks every day plus some form of brisk freestyle activity is recommended. Unlike some breeds, a Great Dane’s bones and joints, especially in rapidly growing puppies, can be harmed by too much exercise.

Daily Walks And Plenty Of Cardio

Hip damage in the first year or two will last a lifetime. While daily walks provide physical, mental, and social stimulation, humans walk too slowly to give long-legged dogs the level of activity they need. Jogging and visits to dog parks can supplement the daily walks as well as games such as fetch and opportunities to swim.

Be ready to slow things down if your Great Dane starts getting tired; an exhausted animal risks becoming injured. When Shakespeare commented that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak,” he might have been thinking of the welfare of an exuberant giant hound. Instead of asking about the Great Dane lifespan, you might ask about what age they’re considered to be seniors.

By age seven most of them have developed joint problems such as arthritis, pain, and lameness in the hips. Your dog’s veterinarian can help you adjust the kinds and amounts of activities accordingly.

Signs Of Lack Of Exercise

If your Great Dane isn’t getting enough exercise, you might observe:

  • Obesity: You should be able to see ribs under the muscle.
  • Abnormal restlessness: Pacing, barking, and other signs of unrelieved energy.
  • Destructive behaviors: Chewing and even aggression are often caused by frustration.

Walking Big Dogs Safely

To walk your big dog safely, train your dog from an early age — taking a training class together will be one of the best investments of your life. The rest of this section is about choosing the right gear for your safety. To have physical control of your dog, you need a good-quality collar or harness that fits properly without causing pain.

You also need a strong non-retractable leash. Slip your thumb through the leash loop and use your other hand to control the amount of slack between you and your dog. While you don’t want your dog to escape, neither do you want surgery to repair your fractured hand. You’ll need to wear snugly fitting footwear with good traction in case the dog lunges or pulls.

You may even want knee protectors. Because both hands need to be free for handling the leash, some people wear a fanny pack for reward treats, cleanup bags, and other belongings. Remember that walking is not just for your dog “to do his business” or to hurry through 20 minutes of required exercise. It’s an opportunity for bonding as you and your buddy explore the world together.

Can Great Danes Swim?

Hundreds of years ago, the mastiff-like hunting dogs were bred to chase down and corner large game animals on land. Consequently, the modern Great Dane is not automatically compelled to gallop into bodies of water the same way retrievers often do. However, many enjoy getting wet. You can gradually introduce your Dane to water with the garden hose or sprinkler if the water isn’t frigid and the spray is gentle.

Many people start with a kiddie-type wading pool in the security of their backyard without distractions or loud, frightening noises. The idea is to make the first experiences pleasant. Since you and your dog belong to the same pack, you can enhance the experience by getting wet together.

Share the joy! This is where training comes in handy because when you direct your dog to HEEL, fear is replaced by the need to follow. Bring a favorite toy into the water as an added temptation.

If your Great Dane has joint problems, or any issues with pain or stress, hydrotherapy might provide a welcome activity option. The water is relaxing, offering buoyancy as well as resistance without stressing the joints. To learn more about recreational hydrotherapy at home or a supervised rehabilitation program, talk to your dog’s vet.

average lifespan of a great dane

Medicinal Benefits of a Biologically Appropriate Diet

A natural, nutrient-dense diet of fresh ingredients is one of the key factors in the Great Dane lifespan and quality of life. Scientists aren’t fully sure why large dogs have short lifespans but research is ongoing. It seems related to a high metabolism — needing more energy to carry out cellular functions while battling oxidative stress.

An ongoing invisible war rages in all of our bodies as antioxidants try to stabilize the damage caused by an overabundance of free radical molecules. Free radicals are generated by both internal and external sources. Although some enzymes scavenge free radicals, a large number of certain antioxidants are supplied by a biologically appropriate diet.

paw prints

BARFing is good! A BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) means fresh, natural, unprocessed food containing a balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other ingredients necessary for optimum health. The nutrients are bioavailable in a form that is easily absorbed by the body. For example, it’s not enough to give your dog protein: shoe leather is protein but it’s barely digestible and it contains toxic chemicals.

The ideal BARF diet contains no fillers, only useful and usable nutrients. Tragically, many dogs forced to consume certain popular commercial dog brands are not only overweight but malnourished and hungry at the same time because of the excessive amount of non-nutritive additives designed to preserve the food, make it palatable, and alter the appearance so consumers find it visually appealing.

Avoiding Preservatives And Fillers Create Longevity

Because foods manufactured in bulk are difficult to market fresh, they require shelf-stable ingredients such as cornmeal and preservatives in order to last for months instead of days without molding or becoming rancid. Although cooking destroys most bacteria, it also destroys many vitamins and proteins, which then have to be added later in synthetic form during the processing.

So what should you feed your beloved Great Dane for a longer lifespan? Avoid foods causing gas. Read labels so you understand what’s in your dog’s food. Research unbiased reviews of commercial dog foods online. Learn to add natural foods as supplements for a healthier, happier dog. (While you’re at it, check out some of our Tips for Happy Tails posts including the one on seaweed for dogs!).

Not only will your pooch enjoy the variety, but will benefit from the needed nourishment. Because a natural diet is satisfying, it aids in maintaining a healthy weight for your Great Dane. Weight control is a major factor in extending the Great Dane life expectancy.

Clean Purified Or Spring Water A Must

A word about water: opinions differ about the best water for your pets. Many experts believe that if your local tap water is safe for you, then it’s safe for dogs, and local water suppliers can provide information on state regulations and compliance records. Home filtration devices and bottled spring water are alternatives to tap water. A greater concern is poor hydration due to the lack of available fresh water at all times.

Canine Mental & Emotional Health

great dane lifespan

Canines are pack animals, and you’re the pack. What’s more, Great Danes are “people persons” and want to be with you. They want physical contact with you. Because you’re the pack, you have the responsibility of learning to understand their body language and vocal sounds as well as to teach them some of yours.

Have you ever been in love and cherished every glance, every smile, every touch, every message? Great Danes love their humans and crave frequent contact throughout the day.

To strengthen your bond of trust, take advantage of every opportunity to include your pooch in everyday activities. Talk to your dog … express your feelings … show your dog the computer screen … play music to your dog … it’s all good. You can also have fun with toys and games together. Some Dane lovers report that their dogs especially love small squeaky toys. Finally, you can teach your dog things, as we’re going to explain next.

great dane life expectancy

Training Your Great Dane

Training is not boot camp and you are not a drill sergeant! Training represents communication and teamwork. There is no punishment, yelling, or name-calling. Your dog wants to please you but neither one of you is fluent in the other’s language so things will get easier as you learn to work together.

The benefits of training include safety, control during crisis, and the pleasure of working together. Good training classes are available through dog clubs, pet stores, and online. Although many training techniques exist, the most successful ones emphasize a good learning environment, communication, consistency, repetition, and rewards.

  • Learning Environment: The best time for anyone to learn is when they’re comfortable, rested, relaxed, and feeling safe in a distraction-free setting. Knowing that learning will be rewarded with snacks provides a good motivation. Creating teachable moments is important in childhood education but it works for your big dog children, too.
  • Communication: Teacher and pupil need to share a relationship of respect and willingness to communicate. The first step is learning how to learn and learning what to expect in future sessions.
  • Consistency: Consistency breeds confidence. Inconsistency breeds confusion.
  • Repetition: Repeating the steps often will reinforce the desired behaviors.
  • Rewards: Rewards clinch the deal! Choose small, nutritious tidbits for formal training but reward good behavior anytime with affection or a playtime session.

Learn Basic Commands First

Teach these basic commands first for safety, then have fun teaching tricks after these are mastered:
1. Come!
2. Heel!
3. Sit!
4. Down!
5. Stay!
Begin communication training early and reinforce it often. Most trainers use a hand sign with each verbal command. These life-saving directions extend the Great Dane lifespan by ensuring that these big dogs are never out of control because your Dane knows that you’re the top dog providing leadership for the welfare of the pack.

A final point: consider choosing universal terms that other people would use automatically in an emergency if you’re not around. While issuing commands in another language or choosing funny words might seem like fun, your dog’s life might depend on being under control.

Special Considerations for Big Dogs

The growing trend in nursing homes and other medical facilities is “person-centered care” that focuses on the individual needs and preferences of each patient instead of using a “one size fits all” philosophy. The best practices in pet care are tailored in the same way.

Large breeds have special needs. Because of their high metabolism and extra stress on their hearts and joints during rapid growth, you’ll add to the Great Dane lifespan by making some adjustments just for them. How long do Great Danes live? They live longer when their special needs are met.

  • Eating: To prevent orthopedic strain, put food and water bowls on a low table or in a custom elevated dish holder.
  • Bathing: Don’t force a giant dog into a slippery bathtub. A shower stall, basin bath while standing, or outdoor set-up is safer.
  • Nail Trimming: Reread our section on training. If you start early with short, positive sessions, your dog will become conditioned to nail trimming as a regular part of grooming. Trimming your dog’s nails is another way to establish leadership and trust, therefore, reinforcing the bond.
  • Stairs: If your Dane becomes ill or disabled, you’ll need to find a way to navigate stairs in and out of the house as well as into rooms on different levels.
  • Space: Have you been the parent of a teenage boy? Known a teenage boy? Been a teenage boy? Are you a teenage boy? It’s challenging to be unaware of your own size, and nobody should get impatient with you for something that’s not your fault! That’s how it is with Great Danes: they need ample space for zoomies, flinging drool, all those big legs, and their muscular, wildly whipping tails. And don’t be surprised to see a big head resting on the countertop or even stovetop.

Genetic Health Tendencies

How are big dogs different from little dogs? Big dog bodies are prone to unique health issues. Orthopedic problems such as arthritis, hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD), and hip dysplasia are unfortunately common in large, fast-growing animals. Arthritis develops over the Great Dane lifespan but can be slowed down or minimized in the ways we’ve discussed.

HOD is a painful autoimmune bone disorder appearing in puppyhood. Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the knob at the top of the thigh bone doesn’t fit correctly into the hip socket. Giant canines can also acquire cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition commonly known as enlarged heart. You see why weight control is so important for your Great Dane.

One of the most severe conditions requiring emergency treatment is bloat. Often but not always the result of a large meal, gas becomes trapped in the twisted digestive tract as pressure builds up. Bloat can also result from gas-producing foods, allergens, poor quality kibble, eating too quickly, exercising after eating, and swallowing air. Dogs following a BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Diet) are much less prone to bloat.

If your dog develops a firm, swollen abdomen or begins retching without vomiting, get veterinary help immediately.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Great Danes

paw prints

Are Great Danes dangerous?
1. Their tails (Some of their enthusiastic “happy tails” run over a foot and a half long and sting like a whip.)
2. Their farts (Large dogs don’t suffer from excessive flatulence but might make the humans around them suffer! Many commercial food ingredients cause indigestion and gas. Anxiety or stress can cause dogs to swallow air as well.)
3. Their size
4. Their drooling

How Old Was the Oldest Great Dane?
Pirate was a handsome gray gentleman in the UK who lived to be 11-1/2 years old. His human, Sarah attributed his longevity to cuddles, love, and happiness. She also said that he wouldn’t have lived so long without a natural diet made of chicken, vegetables, whole grains, and balanced nutrition without artificial ingredients and specially formulated to his age, weight, medical conditions, and taste preferences.

What Is the Difference Between a Watch Dog and a Guard Dog?
A watchdog is like a burglar alarm, ready to alert you to the presence of invaders. A guard dog may or may not bark; some silently go after a perceived threat, either cornering or attacking the offender. Great Danes are protective of the ones they love and appear menacing with their size and deep bark, but since they’ve been bred as companion animals for centuries, they’re not likely to attack without special training.

Do Great Danes Need Another Great Dane to Be Happy?
One of the reasons that dogs inspire the best in humans is their sense of gratitude. Dogs appreciate everything good in their lives even when their needs aren’t being met. In the perfect world, your Dane would have another Dane companion along with you, and you’d all be together all the time!

FACT: If not the same breed or breed type, most dogs do like having at least another compatible pooch of some kind in the household.

How Fast Can Great Danes Run?
They’ve been clocked at 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour), around the average speed of a galloping horse! That’s why the Great Dane lifespan depends on adequate exercise, the right kind of nutrition, and obedience training.

So How Long Do Great Danes Live?

Five years? Twelve years? Some people wonder if smaller Danes live a little longer than larger individuals, and the answer is that they do. And similar to the human species, female Great Danes tend to live a bit longer than males. None of us knows how long we’re going to live, but we’re grateful for whatever time we have.

In fact, think about all the short-lived things in life you enjoy: holidays, parties, meals, sunrises and sunsets, favorite songs, pet hamsters … the list goes on and on. You focus on quality over quantity. Check out this peek into life with a Great Dane.

Final Thoughts

Is a Great Dane right for you? Are you right for a Great Dane? What is the Great Dane lifespan, and how can you extend it? Now you have some answers. You and your Great Dane are members of a very special pack, and you’re very privileged indeed to be adopted by such a gentle giant.

Resources

General Info about Great Danes and Choosing a Healthy One
http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/great-dane

Information about the BARF Diet
https://perfectlyrawsome.com/raw-feeding-knowledgebase/biologically-appropriate-raw-food-barf-adult-dogs/

Online Dog Training Courses
https://www.braintraining4dogs.com/get-btfd/?hop=sage0591

COMING SOON !!

April 18, 2022 by Debbie

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Bones? Why They Should!

April 14, 2022 by Debbie

Bones and dogs said in the same sentence have been a controversial topic ever since the inception of processed dog food. The purpose of this post is to dispel the myth that bones, raw bones to be specific, and raw chicken bones to be even more specific are not good for dogs. Quite the contrary. Read on to fully understand the answer to the question, “Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Bones?” You’ll learn not only that raw chicken bones and other raw bones are good for dogs but Why they are a beneficial and necessary part of a balanced species-specific diet.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Bones And Raw Chicken?

To get a thorough understanding of why dogs can eat raw chicken, raw meat and raw bones let’s look at exactly what a species-specific diet means. Well, species-specific means just that, it’s specific to its species. We are humans and eat a human diet, but unlike our canine companions, we don’t require raw meat nor bones in any form to meet our nutritional requirements. They DO.

The domesticated dog has evolved from its ancestor the wolf, who thrived in nature, living as a carnivore and omnivore eating all forms of raw flesh and bones to plant matter. Though there are thousands of dog breeds bred to perform an ever-widening scope of functions and tasks – there still remain two basic inherent traits.

  1. Physiological Need For Specific Nutrients
  2. Pack Mentality – The need to lead or be led

Physiological Need For Specific Nutrients

The first inherent trait: Raw bones are the number one source of minerals for dogs. Minerals in the raw bones are completely bioavailable, meaning they can be absorbed and digested easily. Raw bones are actually living tissue and contain complex sources of nutrients. If the bone is from chicken or turkey it will contain high amounts of essential fatty acids. In addition, fat-soluble vitamins are contained within the fat part of the chicken or turkey bone.

Pack Mentality – The Need To Lead or Be Led

The second inherent trait: Pack Mentality. Dogs by nature are designed to follow or lead, this is what ensures survival from the alpha to the omega. It explains the unwavering loyalty a dog engenders, hence the saying, ‘dog is man’s best friend.’ Be Your Own Dog Trainer For Dogs ~ Beginners Guide.

There is a reason this saying gave rise to its popularity. Equally as important as it is for a dog to have a pack leader, whether human or fellow canine, is the importance of a species-specific diet. So you ask, “Can dogs eat raw chicken bones?” of course they can and they should for optimum health.

Benefits of Raw Chicken For Dogs

can dogs eat raw chicken

Continuing to answer the question, “Is raw chicken good for dogs”? Chicken is mostly considered muscle meat that is high in protein. Dogs being primarily carnivorous but also omnivorous, require a high protein diet consisting of various meats, organs, glands, BONES, vegetables, and fruit.

Chicken in particular is high in essential fatty acids but lacks enough of all the minerals to meet mineral requirements. Consequently, this is where the importance of raw bones comes in. In a species-specific diet, whether feeding chicken, beef, lamb, fish, or wild game, the diet is balanced with ground bones, organs, glands, and vegetables.

Can Dogs Eat RAW Chicken Breast?

Yes, the breast is one hundred percent muscle meat and has the highest degree of Omega 6 of all meats. You can feed some raw chicken breast with their balanced raw food meal or in addition or as a snack. Raw chicken breast can be bone-in or boneless and either is fine.

The bone of a raw chicken breast is smaller and has fine bones that are easy to break and crunch down. And the boneless chicken breast will provide for a high protein, muscle meat snack containing generous amounts of potassium and Vitamin A.

>>Learn How To Feed Your Dog By The BARF Principle – The Book And Guide By Dr. Ian Billinghurst>>

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Thigh Bones

can dogs eat raw chicken thighs

Yes, but start with raw chicken wings. (see paragraph below this one) If your dog has not had raw bones before, a chicken thigh bone is not the best to start with because of its size.  It’s much larger than a wing bone. Another interesting thing with larger raw bones is that if your pup has not had them before they may be inclined to bury the bone immediately rather than chomp on it. A raw chicken bone is a much better choice than chemical-laden rawhide pseudo bone (see the section below on rawhide bones).

Natural Instincts

Some people may be inclined to call this a phenomenon but it isn’t. In the wild, dogs, wolves, coyotes, and the like eat their prey immediately while it’s fresh or they may bury it for later. Furthermore, and just as important or more so, is the fact that fresh prey, blood, bones, and carcass attract predators. 

This instinct can arise in your domestic dog and they may panic and want to hide the smell of bone fearing predators – therefore, overriding the urge for a good chomp. I actually had this happen with my Queensland Healer. The first time and every time thereafter I fed her marrow bones she get a worried look on her face almost paranoid and then run off to bury the bone immediately. 

She never went back to dig up the bones and partake.  For her, because she also had Dingo breed in her which is a bit wild, her inclination was to preserve her life by burying the bone instead of consuming it. Can dogs eat raw chicken thigh bones? Yes, but start with a smaller bone or chicken wing for first-timers!

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Wings

YES, raw chicken wings are one of the best raw bones to start younger dogs and adult dogs out on. They are small and can be crunched down easily. Start by offering them a chicken wing from good clean-sourced chicken such as organic or grass-fed or both. At first, if they have not had a raw diet before with bones, they may not know what to do.

1. Remove the skin from the wing
2. Offer the wing either in their bowl of food or separately
3. Use a meat cleaver and cut it in half if they don’t eat it right away
4. Allow only a few minutes for them to take the bone
5. If not put the piece away back in the refrigerator and offer it at a later time or the next day

NEVER Ever Cooked Bones Only RAW

Dogs in the wild do NOT eat cooked bones so our domestic dogs have not evolved to eat them. Most importantly is that they splinter and can cause damage to the throat, esophagus, and digestive tract. Dogs can choke on them. Also the nutrients have been cooked right out of the bone there is no nutritional value left in the bone.

KEY POINT: Dogs Should NEVER Eat Cooked Bones Of Any Kind!!! EVER!

Why Raw is Better Than Cooked?

can dogs eat raw ground beef

The Major Key To Raw Food ~ ENZYMES

What raw foods contain that cooked foods do not are living enzymes. And what are living enzymes? First, enzymes are a form of complex proteins found in the body that provide the energy to sustain life and allow the body to function. So, they are kinda important.

Second, they are energy catalysts producing over 150,000 biochemical reactions primarily assisting the digestion of food and delivery of nutrients. But enzymes also strengthen the immune system enabling it to fight off disease.1

Here is a brief list of the other important functions of enzymes:

  • convert carbohydrates into fat
  • deliver nutrients
  • digest food
  • purify the blood
  • deliver hormones
  • feed the brain
  • protect the endocrine system
  • break down and carry away toxic waste
  • balance cholesterol
  • turn protein into muscle
  • life-saving because they establish homeostasis

And How Does Raw Food Benefit Dogs?

Enzymes are beneficial only if they are living. Hence, cooking destroys enzymes and so does processing the food. Eating cooked and processed kibble put stress on the pancreas to create more proteins to be able to function. Living enzymes occur naturally and are found only in a raw diet where they repair, restore and sustain health.

ENZYMES, ENZYMES, ENZYMES

All of this occurs organically without cooking, baking, or processing. Animals continually replenish the enzymatic systems by eating a raw unprocessed diet. By the way, humans benefit exactly the same way from raw foods except that we don’t eat raw beef, liver, and bones to attain the enzymes.

For people, they are found in raw, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, sprouted beans, legumes, and grains. It’s no different for your dog, just the source is different. Conveniently feeding dogs bags of highly carbohydrated, processed, cooked kibble is completely missing out on the living enzymes that sustain life.

>>Learn How To Feed Your Dog By The BARF Principle – The Book And Guide By Dr. Ian Billinghurst>>

A Raw Diet Influences The Immune System

can dogs have raw chicken

As mentioned above in our discussion about living enzymes making the world go around, if the list of enzyme functions wasn’t enough to convince you we’ll add some more benefits related to the immune system. Feed your dog a balanced raw food diet and watch their health improve. Raw food can reduce inflammation thereby having a tremendously positive effect on inflammatory conditions. Many difficult skin conditions can be reversed by switching to an enzyme-rich diet and adding in a quality Omega fish oil.

  • reduced allergies
  • effective digestion
  • absorption of nutrients
  • breakdown and utilization of food
  • skin conditions
  • weight control
  • lean body mass
  • smaller stools & less stinky (due to adequate absorption of nutrients/minerals)
  • decreased arthritis
  • less aggression/better mood
  • successful training

Bones, Teeth & Gum Health

Eating an enzymatic rich natural diet will break down the tartar build-up on teeth preventing unnecessary expensive routine veterinary teeth cleanings. In addition, due to the lack of tartar build-up from living enzymes, your dog’s breath will be much better. Periodontal disease is almost non-existent where it’s prevalent in grain-fed diets.

Due to the high content of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, these rich mineral sources are dentally abrasive acting as a toothbrush removing plaque. “Good” bacteria as well are naturally found in a raw diet which significantly contributes to shiny white teeth and a clean mouth. Aka – better doggie breath!

What’s Wrong With Raw Hide Bones

rawhide bones not good for dogs

Rawhide isn’t all it cracked up to be though it keeps your dog happily chewing for hours, doesn’t smell, and comes in a nicely convenient package. Ahhh, so easy as a wonderful stocking stuffer or the perfect distraction to keep your pup blissfully chewing away. All the while, thinking you are doing wonders for his or her teeth and gums!

First of all, rawhide is heavily processed with chemicals and contains leather industry leftovers. Rawhide bones are massively marketed without this knowledge. Direct from the slaughterhouse the rawhides are placed in brine to slow the decay, note it doesn’t STOP the decay, only slows. Seriously, unfortunately, the hides can come from any animal used in leather manufacturing, not just cows.

Fat and hair are removed from the brined hide with chemicals such as sodium sulphide liming and ash-lye solution. Research these . . . they are highly toxic. In order to ‘puff’ the hide, more chemicals are used and finally to color the hide bleach is used to make them a pretty white color and remove any remaining fleshy scent.2

Healthy Options For Your Best Friend

So basically what you have is a rotten piece of leather that is chemically treated and preserved. It’s a natural instinct for a dog to want to chew on a bone, they are designed to do so so give them real, fresh, unchemicalized meaty raw bones including raw chicken bones. Your canine companion will be much healthier for doing so.

Or as a second option, you can give them quality sourced raw freeze-dried treats and snacks. I love this company and the first time I gave my cats the freeze-dried lamb lungs they became so calm and peaceful it was like giving them a tranquilizer. Why is this so? Because they are getting what they evolved to eat, a raw food diet! The absorption of minerals and nutrients can’t be understated.

Dispelling the Salmonella Myth

One of the biggest concerns people seem to have about a raw food diet for their dog is a salmonella bacterial infection. Although salmonella exists and breeds in certain conditions, it is mostly found in low-grade meats, milk, and polluted drinking water. Ingestion of the feces from another infected dog can cause a salmonella infection as well.

It doesn’t so much have to do with the raw chicken itself but the source, quality, and care of the chicken is the key factor. Chicken obtained from good clean sources, including organic and/or grass-fed, are important to assure quality control.

Why Dogs On A Raw Food Diet Are Less Susceptible To Salmonella

Remember all the functions of living enzymes, well they are designed to digest food rapidly. It doesn’t sit in the gut for long being shuttled off to the bowel to be eliminated. Salmonella flourishes in moist environments where it can hang around and proliferate.

Conversely, in an enzyme happy environment, there is no time to proliferate. And consequently, a high carbohydrate kibble meal takes much longer to digest and pass through.

KEY POINT: raw meat contains the exact living enzymes needed for its own digestion. There is no time delay here. Once again enzymes, enzymes, enzymes. Equally, poor digestion, slow digestion, and partially digested food can become a breeding ground not just for salmonella but for any microorganism. In addition, there are few undigested sugars and starches in the digestive tract for salmonella to feast on.

A dog’s digestive system in itself is quite different from humans. Dogs by nature are biologically designed to digest raw food. Dogs, wild and otherwise have been thriving and surviving in nature eating what nature provides from the food chain. I think they had it right from the beginning. They didn’t need human processing plants to come along and save them, they were here before processed, heat-treated food.

BARF ~ Biologically Appropriate Raw Food

Have you heard of the acronym BARF? Its two common meanings are Biologically Appropriate Raw Food and Bones and Raw Food. Nutritionist and veterinarian, Dr. Ian Bliinghurst founded the principle of feeding dogs the appropriate diet they evolved to eating. The raw diet – consists of greens and meats that are wild, fresh, and uncooked.

This principle is based on a diet high in protein, minimal carbohydrates, and moderate fat and consists of the following:

  • Muscle meat
  • Raw meaty bones
  • Organ meat
  • Vegetables and fruits
  • Select Supplements

>>Learn How To Feed Your Dog By The BARF Principle – The Book And Guide By Dr. Ian Billinghurst>>

can dogs eat raw chicken bones
https://barfaustralia.com/nutrition/the-barf-philosophy

Concluding Thoughts

Can dogs eat raw chicken bones? Unequivocally, dogs should eat raw chicken bones and other raw bones to ensure a healthy immune system, metabolism, digestive tract, and strong teeth and gums. Always choose chicken, chicken bones, and any meat for your dog from a clean, quality, source. In the same way, a good rule of thumb feed your dog what you would choose for yourself and you should be good to go!

Other Related Posts

Can Dogs Eat Zucchini? This Veggie Packs A Powerful Punch
Can Dogs Eat SeaWeed? 10 Reasons Why ~ Types & Benefits
Can Dogs Eat Olives? Best Olives For Dogs & Medicinal Uses

References

  1. https://annarborholistichealth.com/2015-4-30-enzymes-a-dead-diets-necessary-companion/#:~:text=Raw%20foods%20are%20enzymatically%20alive,that%20food%20to%20help%20digestion.
  2. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/rawhide-dangerous-for-dogs/
  3. https://annarborholistichealth.com/2015-4-30-enzymes-a-dead-diets-necessary-companion/#:~:text=Raw%20foods%20are%20enzymatically%20alive,that%20food%20to%20help%20digestion.
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