Last Updated on 27/10/2024 by Denise Leo. Post first published on October 27, 2024.
Raw feeding has become an increasingly popular approach to canine nutrition, particularly in recent years, as pet owners seek to provide a more natural diet for their dogs. For Pomeranian owners, feeding raw meaty bones can benefit their dog’s diet, offering unique health benefits beyond what traditional kibble or canned food can provide.
In this post, we’ll explore why raw meaty bones are a great dietary choice for your Pomeranian, how to choose safe bones, their nutritional value, and important precautions to take to ensure your Pomeranian’s safety.
Why Feed Raw Meaty Bones?
Raw meaty bones can play a significant role in a Pomeranian’s diet by contributing essential nutrients, promoting dental health, and satisfying their instinctual need to chew. Here are some reasons why incorporating raw bones may be beneficial for your Pom:
Nutrient-Rich: Raw bones are a natural source of calcium, phosphorus, and other essential minerals for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. When Pomeranians chew on raw bones, they get these minerals and absorb marrow, which is rich in fat and iron.
Dental Health: Chewing on raw bones acts as a natural toothbrush, scraping off tartar and helping to prevent plaque buildup. This is especially important for Pomeranians, as smaller breeds are more prone to dental issues, which can lead to other health complications if left unaddressed.
Improved Digestion: Chewing on bones stimulates saliva enzymes and gastric juices, helping Pomeranians digest their food better. Additionally, raw bones have a high moisture content, which aids hydration and prevents constipation.
Mental Stimulation: Pomeranians are intelligent and curious by nature. Chewing on a bone can provide mental stimulation, satisfying their instinctual drive to chew and gnaw. This can help reduce boredom, stress, and even destructive behavior.
Choosing the Right Bones
Selecting the right type of bones is crucial, as not all bones are safe for Pomeranians. Here’s a guide to picking bones that are both nutritious and safe:
Size Matters: For small breeds like Pomeranians, it’s best to choose small, meaty bones that are easy to hold but large enough that they won’t accidentally swallow them whole.
Avoid Weight-Bearing Bones of Large Animals: Bones from the legs or hips of large animals, like cows, tend to be denser and can break or damage your Pomeranian’s teeth. Stick to softer bones, such as rib bones.
Stay Away from Cooked Bones: Cooked bones should never be given to dogs, as they are brittle and prone to splintering, which can cause choking blockages or serious damage to a dog’s digestive tract.
No Chicken Necks or Chicken Wings: Chicken wings and necks are not recommended for Pomeranians because they pose a choking hazard. Their small size and shape can lead to accidental swallowing, increasing the obstruction risk.
The Nutritional Value of Raw Bones
Raw bones offer a variety of nutrients that play a crucial role in a Pomeranian’s health:
Calcium and Phosphorus: These minerals are fundamental for strong bones and teeth. A balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is also essential for muscle function and energy metabolism.
Collagen and Glucosamine: These components are excellent for joint health and are found in the cartilage attached to bones. They are particularly beneficial for older Pomeranians or those prone to joint issues.
Marrow: Bone marrow is a natural source of fat, essential fatty acids, and iron. These nutrients support a healthy coat, skin, and immune system.
Amino Acids and Enzymes: Raw bones contain protein and enzymes that aid digestion and support muscle maintenance and repair.
Introducing Raw Meaty Bones to Your Pomeranian’s Diet
If your Pomeranian has never eaten raw bones, it’s best to introduce them gradually. Follow these tips for a smooth transition:
Start Slow: Begin with small, softer bones like chicken wings or rib bones. Let your Pom chew for a few minutes, gradually increasing the duration as they get used to it.
Supervise Your Dog: Always supervise your Pomeranian when it’s eating a bone. This will help prevent accidents, such as choking or attempting to swallow too large pieces.
Monitor Their Digestive Response: Introducing raw bones might result in slight changes in your Pomeranian’s stool as their digestive system adjusts. If you notice any signs of discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation, consider reducing the frequency or portion size.
Frequency and Serving Size
The frequency and portion of raw bones your Pomeranian should receive will depend on their overall diet and individual needs. Generally, bones should make up around 10-15% of a balanced raw diet.
Frequency: For most Pomeranians, one or two raw meaty bones per week is enough to provide the dental benefits and nutrients they need without risking digestive issues.
Serving Size: Bones should be proportional to your Pomeranian’s size. A small rib bone is typically sufficient for a single serving for smaller Poms.
Safety Considerations
While raw bones can be incredibly beneficial, they also come with certain risks if not managed properly. Here are some critical safety considerations:
Sanitation: Raw bones should be stored in the refrigerator and given fresh to avoid bacterial contamination. Clean any surfaces that come into contact with raw bones, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
Health Conditions: Dogs with compromised immune systems or certain health conditions may not be suitable candidates for raw bones. If your Pomeranian has any underlying health issues, consult your veterinarian before introducing bones into their diet.
Observe for Dental Health: Raw bones are generally great for dental health, but they may not be suitable for Pomeranians with weakened or damaged teeth. If your Pomeranian has pre-existing dental issues, speak with your vet about safer alternatives.
Handling Excessive Bone Consumption: Consuming too much bone can lead to constipation or bowel obstructions. If you feed a fully raw diet, ensure that bones are only a small portion of your Pom’s overall diet, balanced with meat and organs.
Common Misconceptions About Raw Bones
Several myths surround feeding raw bones to dogs, some of which have deterred pet owners from giving them to their pets. Let’s address some common misconceptions:
“All Bones Are Dangerous”: While cooked bones pose a genuine threat, raw meaty bones are safe for most dogs when given appropriately.
The key is to choose the right bones and supervise them.
“Raw Bones Are Dirty and Full of Bacteria”: Dogs’ digestive systems are adapted to handle raw meat and bones, including bacteria that would be harmful to humans. However, you can rinse bones before serving for your peace of mind.
“Small Dogs Can’t Eat Bones”: Many small breeds benefit from raw bones as much as larger breeds. Pomeranians can safely enjoy raw bones when given the appropriate size.
Conclusion
Feeding your Pomeranian raw meaty bones can be a rewarding way to support their overall health, keep their teeth clean, and offer a natural source of essential nutrients. As with any dietary change, it’s crucial to introduce bones gradually and observe your Pom’s response. Choose bones that are appropriate for their size and always supervise them while chewing.
Raw feeding might initially seem intimidating, but with the right guidance, you can help your Pomeranian enjoy the numerous benefits of this natural treat. Remember, a healthy Pomeranian is a happy Pomeranian, and incorporating raw meaty bones into their diet may be one of the best ways to ensure they thrive.
Happy raw feeding! 🐾
Disclaimer: The Content is not a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your dog’s medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on ANY website.
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References and Further Reading:
[1] Official Standard of the Pomeranian (AKC). American Kennel Club, 2011.
[2] English Kennel Club Pomeranian Breed Standard, 2017.
[3] Denise Leo, The Pomeranian Handbook.
[4] Milo G. Denlinger “The Complete Pomeranian.”
[5] Kimbering Pomeranians “1891-1991”.
[6] William Taplin’s “The Sportsman’s Cabinet.”
[7] E. Parker “The Popular Pomeranian.”
[8] Lilla Ives “Show Pomeranians.”
