At ProDog Raw, we add ground bone to our recipes (except those marked boneless) as it is a crucial component to a balanced diet for a carnivore.

Bone:

1. Is packed with essential minerals – such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorous, essential amino and fatty acids, vitamins A, copper and iron. Bone is full of glucosamine and Vitamin D, both of which are fantastic to support a healthy digestive tract and combat issues such as poor GI function and leaky gut.
   
2. Supports improved toilet habits. Providing your dog with sufficient bone has a binding effect on their poops and can go a long way to prevent diarrhoea. Beware though; an excess of bone may cause constipation.
3. Is great for dental hygiene. Chew, or ‘recreational’  bones play a key role in preventing the build-up of plaque, tartar and bacteria on teeth surfaces whilst allowing dogs to exercise and strengthen their jaw, neck and shoulders – vital for young puppies.
4. Supports a healthy microbiome. The nourishment bone delivers to the digestive system helps to promote beneficial bacteria within the gut.This is complemented by the sandpaper effect of bony fragments freshening the lining of the gut and thus creating an environment for a balanced microbiome. 
5. Recreational bones are fantastic for stimulation. Gnawing a bone is a healthy behavioural outlet. It is a natural and instinctive behaviour for dogs.The freedom to perform and express natural behaviours is key to mental wellbeing in dogs, and the provision of chew bones is an excellent way to encourage this. 

The ideal ratio of bone content in a dog’s diet is 10% .

Bone content should be reduced for bitches during the later stages of pregnancy in order to lower her risk of constipation.

Whilst we advocate feeding bones, we also emphasise the importance of doing so in a SAFE way. As with all aspects of canine care, bone feeding doesn’t come without risk, so becoming educated in best practices is essential. 

Our article ‘Feeding Bones To Dogs: The All You Need To Know Guide’ will give you lots of helpful information about the what, why and how to feed bones safely.

https://www.prodograw.com/feeding-bones-to-dogs-the-all-you-need-to-know-guide/