This article is part of a series “Can My Dog Eat X” by Pala Petfoods, where our dog nutrition experts review the benefits and dangers of different foods to dogs. Our mission is to help you make informed decisions that prioritise your furry friend's health and break some bad myths in the process.

VERDICT - YES, IT’S GREAT

The Benefits

• High-quality protein: Rabbit meat is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for your dog's muscle development and energy levels. Pala combines raw rabbit with salmon and herring for a well-balanced dog food, gently air-dried for best taste and nutritional value.
• Low in fat: It is generally low in fat, making it a good meat choice for dogs that are overweight or require a lower-fat diet.
• Novel protein: For dogs with allergies to more common protein sources like chicken or beef, rabbit can be a good alternative.
• Nutrient-rich: Rabbit meat contains essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, minerals like potassium and phosphorus, and more.
• Dental health: Chewing on raw meat can help promote dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar build-up.

The Dangers

• Risk of pathogens: Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli that can lead to food poisoning in both dogs and humans handling the food.

The Details

When considering feeding raw rabbit meat to your dog, please take into account the following important aspects:

• Consult Your Veterinarian: Before introducing a new food item, especially raw meat, discuss it with your veterinarian to ensure it's appropriate for your dog's specific dietary needs.
• Source Responsibly: Obtain the rabbit meat from a reputable source that guarantees the meat is fresh and free of harmful pathogens.
• Balanced Diet: Ensure that the rabbit meat is part of a balanced diet. Dogs need a combination of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to meet their nutritional requirements.
• Proper Handling: Practice safe meat-handling procedures to prevent cross-contamination. Wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.
• Appropriate Portions: Determine the correct portion size for your dog's weight, age, and activity level to maintain a healthy weight.
• Transition Gradually: Introduce rabbit meat gradually into your dog's diet to avoid digestive upset. Start with small amounts and slowly increase to the full portion over several days.
• Freeze Before Use: Some experts recommend freezing the meat for a specific period to kill potential parasites.
• Bones Consideration: If you're including rabbit bones, ensure they are appropriate for your dog's size and chewing habits. Never feed cooked bones, as they can splinter.
• Monitor Your Dog: Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of gastrointestinal distress or allergic reactions when introducing new foods.
• Regular Health Check-ups: Continue with regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog’s health and adjust the diet as necessary based on their health status.
• Stay Informed: Educate yourself on raw diets such as the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or prey model diets, and consider the pros and cons in regards to your own dog's situation.
• Storage: Store raw rabbit meat in the refrigerator or freezer and follow proper thawing practices before serving.
• Supplementation: Discuss with your vet if additional supplements or other food items should be incorporated to round out the meal and meet nutritional needs.
• Safe Disposal: Dispose of any uneaten raw meat promptly to prevent it from spoiling and becoming hazardous.

As always, it's best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your dog's diet to ensure they're safe and beneficial for your pet specifically. Check out our other articles in this series for more information on what you should or should not feed your dog.