Raw questions

[Victoria93]

We finally have decided to switch the boys to the prey model diet, but i have loads of questions i hope someone can answer. I read to stay away from drumsticks and necks because they are dangerous for large breeds, is this true? I also read to stay away from weight bearing bones even ribs, but some say ribs are fine what would you say?

 

[NYDDB]

I think you have to consider each dog on their own terms. In other words, is your dog a gulper, or is he a slow, careful eater?

My DDB is a slow eater, so I can give him even a wing or chicken foot and he'll chomp through them without swallowing whole. So, I would gauge by that measure...

As to ribs, some feed them, but usally several that are connected together, rather than single. Mateo swallowed a lamb rib whole as a pup (it just slid down his throat)-- I kind of freaked out, but he digested it fine. Since then I've been leery of feeding ribs, but many do!

 

[TricAP]

We have one very dainty eater and one gulper/snarfer/gobble/inhale anything and everything eater. So far both do fine with rib bones - under supervision. If anything splinters it gets taken away. Chicken legs and wings haven't been an issue but neither do well with necks - both tend to regurgitate them...usually in the middle of the night right next to my side of the bed. :scared2:

We watched the "out put' for the first few weeks very carefully and was amazed at how well their digestive system does with bones.

 

[twood71]

Congratulations, you will see a difference in your boys.

I agree watch how your dog does with the different bones.

For us they do perfect on the chicken leg and thigh and wings. I have not fed them rib or neck.

It is correct to stay away from the wieght barring bone, it can be hard on their teeth.

 

[DennasMom]

Denna likes lamb and pork ribs, but not beef, so much - they seem to be harder. She'll work on them, but more for recreation than dinner.

I agree with the other comments, too... size and hardness of foods will depend on the dog. I figure if it can get safely into the stomach, we're all good. It's the choking hazards I worry about. All meals are supervised (loosely) around here, just in case.

 

[corsotx]

I started prey model with wings and necks too. At the beginning it was a terrifying experience to see my pup chomping down instantly. I have now feeding half frozen necks and wings and my pup would take his time chewing. No issue with it. Also, you could try teaching your dog to chew by holding the other end of the piece. This would slow him down. He would learn to chew in this manner.

Feeding raw is great for my pup. He always get compliment for its fur, coat, teeth and breath. I also think that chewing bones helped with his teething phase. We haven't had any issues with turning round table into square =) knock wood