Raw chicken is a popular choice for raw feeders, but is it safe? Learn how to handle, balance, and feed raw chicken the right way.
Why More Dog Owners Are Choosing Raw Chicken
As raw feeding gains popularity, raw chicken dog food has become one of the most common protein choices for pet owners. It’s affordable, widely available, and packed with essential nutrients. But is it truly safe and nutritionally complete for your dog?
Many pet owners have concerns about bacteria, nutritional imbalances, and safety risks when feeding raw chicken. This guide will help you understand how to safely prepare and balance raw chicken in your dog’s diet while addressing common concerns.
Is Raw Chicken Safe for Dogs? Understanding the Risks
The biggest concern surrounding raw chicken is the potential for bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances if not fed correctly. However, with proper handling and sourcing, raw chicken can be a safe and highly beneficial protein for your dog.
1. Addressing the Risk of Bacteria (Salmonella & E. Coli)
Raw chicken can harbor bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can be harmful to both dogs and humans. While dogs have a shorter digestive tract and strong stomach acid that helps them process raw meat, it’s still important to handle and store raw chicken properly.
How to Reduce Bacterial Risks:
- Source from Trusted Suppliers – Choose raw pet food brands that follow strict food safety standards (like All Raw Dog Food).
- Freeze Before Feeding – Freezing raw chicken for at least two weeks can help reduce the bacterial load.
- Use Separate Prep Areas – Avoid cross-contamination by using dedicated bowls and utensils for raw feeding.
Practice Safe Handling – Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw chicken.
2. Nutritional Imbalance: Is Raw Chicken Alone Enough?
Feeding only raw chicken muscle meat is not a balanced diet and can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Dogs need a variety of meat, organs, and bones to get essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins.
A Properly Balanced Raw Chicken Diet Includes:
- Muscle Meat – Chicken breast, thighs, drumsticks.
- Raw Edible Bones – Chicken necks, wings, or feet for calcium and dental health.
- Organ Meat – Liver, kidney, spleen for essential vitamins and minerals.
Omega-3 & Nutrient Supplements – For joint health and coat condition.
3. Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Concerns in Raw Chicken
Recent cases of avian influenza (H5N1) linked to raw poultry have raised concerns. While the risk of transmission to dogs is extremely low, it’s best to source chicken from reputable suppliers with strict health inspections.
The Benefits of Raw Chicken in a Dog’s Diet
Despite concerns, raw chicken remains a top choice for raw feeders due to its digestibility, affordability, and nutritional profile.

1. Lean & High in Protein
Chicken is a high-quality, lean protein source, ideal for maintaining muscle mass and supporting an active lifestyle.
2. Easy to Digest
Dogs with sensitive stomachs often tolerate chicken-based raw diets better than processed kibble.
3. Supports Skin & Coat Health
Chicken is rich in essential fatty acids and amino acids, helping maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin.
4. Affordable & Accessible
Compared to other raw meats like beef or lamb, chicken is more budget-friendly and widely available.
How to Transition Your Dog to a Raw Chicken Diet
If your dog is new to raw feeding, transitioning gradually is key to avoiding digestive upset.
- Start with Small Portions – Mix raw chicken with your dog’s current food.
- Introduce Organ Meats Slowly – Some dogs take time to adjust to rich organ meats.
- Monitor Digestion – Look for firm stools, healthy energy levels, and improved coat condition.
Ensure Variety – Rotate proteins like duck, turkey, or fish for a well-rounded diet.
Why All Raw Dog Food is the Best Choice for Raw Chicken Dog Food in Cornwall & Surrounding Areas
At All Raw Dog Food, we provide high-quality, locally sourced raw chicken that meets strict safety and nutritional standards.
What Makes Our Raw Chicken Dog Food Different?
- 100% Canadian-Sourced Chicken – We use locally raised, hormone-free chicken to ensure premium quality.
- Balanced Formulations – Our raw chicken blends include muscle meat, organ meats, and bone for a complete, species-appropriate diet.
- Strict Food Safety Standards – We follow MAPAQ (Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation du Québec) guidelines to ensure safe handling and preparation.
Convenient & Affordable – We provide competitively priced raw chicken options to make high-quality raw feeding accessible to all pet owners.
Common Questions About Raw Chicken for Dogs
Q: Can dogs get sick from eating raw chicken?
If sourced and handled properly, raw chicken is safe for dogs. Dogs have strong stomach acids that help neutralize bacteria
Q: How often should I feed my dog raw chicken?
You can feed raw chicken daily as part of a balanced raw diet, ensuring you include organ meats and bones for full nutrition.
Q: Can puppies eat raw chicken?
Yes, but it’s crucial to provide a balanced raw diet with the right nutrient ratios for growing puppies.
Should You Feed Your Dog Raw Chicken?
If you’re looking for an affordable, digestible, and nutritious raw food option, raw chicken is an excellent choice when handled properly and fed as part of a balanced diet.
At All Raw Dog Food, we make it easy to provide your pet with high-quality, raw chicken meals—safely and affordably.
Looking for the Best Raw Chicken Dog Food?
Check out our Raw Chicken Dog Food and give your pet the best in natural nutrition today.