Can Dogs Eat Roast Beef? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQs
Dogs need meat as a regular part of their balanced diet. Meat provides a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals for dogs which is necessary for the healthy development of brain functions, good digestion, and proper functioning of the nervous system and immune systems. Like all other meats, roast beef can be an excellent source of beneficial nutrients for dogs as long as it is used properly. Roast beef shouldn’t become a regular part of a dog’s diet and should instead be offered in the form of an occasional treat only.
Read the article below to find out all the benefits and even some risks of feeding roast beef to your dog.
Which Food is Best for Dogs
The basis of each dog’s diet should be a quality, dog specific, commercial food, adjusted to each dog individually and their specific age, size, activity and weight. While there are certain rules of thumb regarding the ideal dog diet, it is still advisable to consult your veterinarian for advice. Each dog has different needs, especially if certain health conditions are included.
Dogs need to have a meat-based diet, while vegetables should be included as well. Bones are not recommended for dogs, nor is raw meat because it potentially carries pathogens that can cause serious illnesses in the dog and the owner. Bones can cause dogs’ teeth to break and even create internal blockages. Cooked meat is excellent for dogs, but you must ensure it is stripped off the bone.
Below are some human foods that are excellent for dogs.1
Is Roast Beef Safe for Dogs?
If you are wondering whether you could safely feed roast beef to your dog, the good news is that this meat is safe for dogs. Roast beef is rich in proteins, minerals, and vitamins that are beneficial to dogs. Roast beef contains vitamins and minerals such as B12 and B6, iron, zinc, phosphorus, and selenium. The only concern when feeding your dog beef is the additional ingredients that go into the roast. As long as the beef is roasted with safe ingredients for dogs, you can use it as a treat.
Since roast beef is made from the cow’s fattier parts, you shouldn’t make it into a regular meal. Treats should make up 10% of their entire daily food intake, so remember this when feeding your dog.
Benefits of Roast Beef
There are many benefits to feeding your dog roast beef, and below we will include the most beneficial aspects.
The Risks of Roast Beef
While roast beef has some amazing benefits for dogs, it also brings certain risks you must be aware of as a current or a future dog parent.
Final Thoughts
Roast beef is generally considered safe for dogs and is even a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, although knowing the correct amount for a balanced diet is important. Roast beef should be fed plain, without any additional spices, onions, or garlic, and be fed only occasionally and in moderation.
Featured Image Credit: vitals, Shutterstock
