Despite the controversy of Pitbulls being “dangerous and aggressive” dogs, they have miraculously seen a turnaround rate in adoptions. Many of these dogs have been saved from illegal dog fighting rings. As mighty as they look and as strong as they are, Pitbulls suffer from a range of health issues that could lead to life-threatening diseases and a shorter lifespan. Luckily, these symptoms can be relieved with a species-appropriate raw diet – the best dog food for pitbulls which will transform your Pitbull pup into their happy, healthy self!
What To Feed Pit Bulls In A Raw Diet
As mentioned in the previous two articles, species-appropriate pit bull nutrition consists of raw meats and bones, fish, eggs, and very small amounts of greens, herbs, veggies, and fruit. But what exactly should you feed?
Raw meaty bones (RMBs) comprise the main part of the diet. Why is it so important that you feed bones and not just meat? In a word, calcium. Dogs not only have specific calcium requirements (too much and too little can both cause problems), but they also require calcium and phosphorous in a ratio between 1:1 to 2:1.
Meat contains tiny amounts of calcium, but lots of phosphorus, while bones are high in calcium and contain a moderate amount of phosphorus.
RMBs with the highest bone to meat levels (e.g., poultry wings, backs, and necks) deliver calcium and phosphorus in a ratio of roughly 1:1. If you feed a lot of bones that are “meatier” (e.g., chicken leg quarters or breasts), you’ll need to add another calcium source to the diet. But don’t worry, by giving eggs with the shells, you can feed even the meatiest bones without risk of unbalancing the diet.
Some dogs also do fine with beef ribs and necks, but these bones are quite a bit harder. They’re not a good idea for dogs new to the species-appropriate diet.
Due primarily to cost, chicken and turkey RMBs will probably be the main component of your pit bull’s diet, but don’t feed only poultry. Pure poultry diets can be too low in zinc, so feed red meat at least twice a week. Remember, variety is important.
The risk of trichinosis is very slight when feeding USDA inspected pork intended for human consumption, but if you’re concerned, freezing the meat for 3 weeks at 5 degrees Fahrenheit or for 3 days at -4 degrees Fahrenheit will kill the worms.
Unfortunately the species of Trichinella found in wild game meats such as venison, elk, and bear is more resistant to freezing.
If you have access to such game meats, inspect them carefully for the presence of parasites before feeding them to your dog. If you’re not sure what to look for, have the meat inspected by someone who does.
About 10% of your pit bull’s diet should consist of raw organ meats. You can feed any inspected organ meat, but livers, kidneys, and hearts from chicken, turkey, lamb, and beef are usually the easiest to find.
Chicken and turkey gizzards are also an option. Another great choice–if you can find it–is green tripe (not the bleached tripe available in supermarkets). Kidneys and especially livers are very rich and should not comprise more than half of your organ meat mix.
Most meat should be fed on the bone, but adding small amounts (16-20 oz a week) of boneless muscle meat to the diet–either ground or in chunks–is fine as long as you remember to feed the eggs with their shells.
The main reason you may want to feed boneless muscle meat on occasion is that your pit bull needs some red meat in her diet, and if you can’t find lamb RMBs or oxtails at an affordable price, ground beef may be your best bet for inexpensive red meat.
Wild fish frequently contains parasites, so stick to farmed fish or wild fish species such as tuna and snapper that have a very low risk of parasites. When in doubt, look for raw fish that’s recommended for sushi.
Never feed raw salmon due to the risk of salmon poisoning disease, which is potentially fatal. Carp, catfish, and smelt can be fed on occasion but not at every fish meal because these species contain an enzyme that binds thiamin (vitamin B1). Fish that weigh less than half a pound can be fed whole–heads, guts, and all.
If you can’t find affordable raw fish, it’s okay to substitute canned mackerel, sardines, or tuna packed in spring water. Just make sure there aren’t any unwanted additives. It’s best to drain the fish before feeding to get rid off some of the salt.
Feed your pit bull a large raw egg with the shell 3-4 times a week. The egg’s shell is about 95% calcium, which is needed to balance the excess phosphorus contained in the organ meats, boneless muscle meats, meatier RMBs, and the eggs themselves.
How do you feed the shells? Wash them and leave them to dry for at least a day. Then grind them into a fine powder using one of those little electric coffee/spice grinders or a mortar and pestle. Mix the egg shell powder with raw egg, ground meat, or pureed veggies.
As mentioned in the first part of this series, dogs have no nutritional requirement for carbohydrates. Consequently feeding veggies and fruit is optional. It’s also a lot of work. Raw veggies and fruits need to be completely crushed in a food processor or juicer in order for your dog to be able to access their nutrients.
If you want to feed veggies, make enough for several weeks and freeze in serving-sized containers. Then thaw as needed.
So why would anyone go to the trouble of preparing a fruit and veggie meal if dogs have no need for it? These plant foods are very high in vitamins and minerals, and those are certainly beneficial.
If you want to make a veggie mix for your pit bull, endive and romaine lettuce, parsley, bok choy, dandelion and mustard greens, wheat grass and other grasses, broccoli, squash, zucchini, carrots, celery, pears and apples (without the core) are all good choices. Feed about 1/4 cup three times a week.
Supplements are also entirely optional, but you may want to add some fish body oil (not liver oil) and vitamin E to your pit bull’s diet.
Many dogs enjoy omega-3 fish oil capsules so much that you can give them as a healthy treat between meals. If you’re not feeding veggies, you might want to give a teaspoon of powdered greens or algae on occasion, but it’s not essential.
Understanding Raw Diets for Pitbull Terriers
The number of options you can choose from when you are debating on the best diet for your Pitbull and if raw meat should play a part or not is likely overwhelming.
Especially with all the sources publishing the information online for no other reason except to generate clicks, commissions and have no real experience even owning a dog.
It is important to understand this and stick to information from sources that at a bare minimum, raise and own dogs and walk the walk when they are recommending a diet and what to feed your new companion.
Some veterinarians may even suggest raw meat diets for a Pitbull if your dog currently has allergies to other foods or ingredients present in processed foods.
Overall, Pit Bulls are completely capable of digesting and eating raw meat, and it is considered one of the healthiest options you can offer.
You do have some things you need to keep in mind if you decide to take this approach as an FYI.
Now comes the question of if you should switch to raw meat for your Pit Bull’s primary diet.
Best Dog Food For Pitbulls With Skin Allergies
The best dog food for Pitbulls with severe skin allergies is a raw diet.
Many allergies develop from a processed kibble diet because of the artificial “meat” ingredients.
So, when you think your dog is allergic to beef, its most likely the toxic beef flavoring that coats over kibble to trick dogs into eating it. Disadvantages of kibble: dry dog food with potential food allegies
If you switch to a raw diet for Pitbulls that incorporates USDA certified & human-grade beef, your Pitbull will likely have no problem devouring it because the quality is much better!
An improper diet is a significant contributor to allergies, and many blogs want to bring awareness to this topic. A raw diet helps detox and expel the chemicals of a processed diet. With proper transitioning, your Pitbull will be able to get rid of allergies from the inside out.
Our formulas include plenty of salmon oil that has Omega 3 healthy fats. This lubricates your dogs skin and improves coat health! Omega 3 is a necessary oil for dogs that helps keep inflammation in check—no more nibbling on their paws or irritated skin.
Jax & Pia: This duo of dog mom and dog have seen the excellent results of switching to raw!
Q) Before feeding raw, did Jax have any allergies?
A) Oh my goodness! YES, x infinity! Jax had the worst allergies. He had random bald patches on his coat; he was constantly itchy and scratching and sneezing. His weight wasnt at an unhealthy weight, but he could benefit from a few lbs lost.
Q) What made you want to make the switch to a raw diet?
A) I did a lot of research on the benefits of raw feeding, and they all fit the criteria of what I was looking for. Jax liked kibble, but I didnt see any health benefits from it. He was still having terrible allergies and was gaining weight. I just needed something better and more natural.
Q) What are some of your favorite benefits of feeding raw?
A) Natural ingredients. Shinier coat, no more bald patches, thats right! Hair grew back in those areas, and he gets compliments on his jacket all the time. His digestion is soo much better! His poop says it all lol and oral health as well, which was surprising.
Q) How long have you been a raw feeder?
Q) Why do you think Cali Raw dog food is the best for Pitbulls?
A) I think many Pitbulls suffer from allergies. Im not sure about others, but my Pitbull LOVES food.
Cali Raw satisfies all the needs without worrying about him gaining a ridiculous amount of weight while also helping his allergies.
Cali raw is a raw food company, but its been more than just that for us. Its almost personalized. Customer care is phenomenal, so you consider different sized dogs, different breeds, and you do the research.
Q) How has your overall experience been with Cali Raw?
A) 100 out of 10. Hands down the best customer service. Always so helpful. Patient. And knowledgeable. Its never a chore to drive to Newport because we look forward to saying hi and seeing yall!
FAQ
What raw food can I feed my Pitbull?
- Muscle meat, often still on the bone.
- Bones, either whole or ground.
- Organ meats such as livers and kidneys.
- Raw eggs.
- Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and celery.
- Apples or other fruit.
- Some dairy, such as yogurt.
Is it OK to feed a Pitbull raw meat?
Can my Pitbull dog eat raw meat everyday?