Expert: Jannie Balliett - 9/16/2010

Question
Hi Jannie

I am thinking about putting my boxers on a raw food diet. I have read that there are many benefits to a raw food diet. My question to you is:  Will the dogs become aggresive by doing that since eating the raw food will mimic how dogs eat in the wild. I could not find any article regarding their change in behavior by it. Could you share some of your thoughts on this to include the raw food diet.

thank you

Answer
I disagree with a total raw diet. That is my opinion. I do not believe in giving them bones let alone poultry bones which splinter in the stomach.

Organ meats are okay but I prefer to cook the meats. Steam them in water covered on the stove.

Between a natural dog food with no corn and no corn glutens or any glutens, home cooked recipes and healthy snacks such as baby carrots and other veggies-- that is the most healthiest without dangers and without bones.

Look online for home cooked recipes like ground meat steamed in a skillet, add cooked rice and cooked baby carrots cut up, a pinch of salt and blend with a natural dog food and it is perfect. Also, plain whole yogurt (no flavors) added to food daily is great for digestion and is a treat.

The dog food I prefer is Dick Van Patton's Natural Balance
http://www.naturalbalanceinc.com/dogformulas/home.html