What is Organ Meat? Should It Be in Your Dog’s Diet?

As a dog parent, I’ve often found myself diving deep into what constitutes a truly balanced and nutritious diet for my furry companion. Recently, I stumbled upon the benefits of organ meats for dogs, a topic that’s sparked much debate among pet owners and veterinarians alike. So, what exactly is organ meat, and should it be part of your dog’s diet? How much can we incorporate in their diet? What are the benefits and the most important question how safe it is? Let’s know.

What is Organ Meat?

Organ meats, also known as offal, refer to the internal organs and entrails of animals. Unlike muscle meat (such as chicken breast or steak), organ meats include:

• Liver: Rich in vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, as well as essential minerals like iron and copper.
• Kidneys: Contain high levels of B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
• Heart: Packed with taurine (an amino acid essential for heart health), as well as CoQ10, iron, and selenium.
• Spleen, Pancreas, Brain, and Lungs: Each offers a different nutrient profile, contributing to a dog’s overall health in various ways.

Organ meats have been a staple in the diets of wild canines for thousands of years. Wolves, for example, often consume the organs of their prey first because they are nutrient-dense. But should your dog eat organ meats too?

How Much Organ Meat Can My Dog Have?

While organ meats are incredibly nutrient-dense, they should be fed in moderation. The general guideline is that organ meats should make up about 10% of your dog’s diet.

Recent research suggests that feeding too much organ meat, particularly liver, can lead to vitamin A toxicity in dogs. A study from the National Research Council (NRC) recommends that the daily intake of vitamin A should not exceed 62.5 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. For a medium-sized dog weighing 20 kilograms, this means no more than 1,250 micrograms of vitamin A per day — which roughly translates to 0.5 ounces of beef liver per day.

Are Organ Meats Safe?

Yes, organ meats are generally safe for dogs when sourced and handled properly. However, there are a few precautions to consider:

• Quality and Sourcing: Make sure the organ meats are from a reputable source. Organic, grass-fed options are the best because they are less likely to contain harmful hormones or antibiotics.
• Freshness: Organ meats spoil faster than muscle meats. Always store them properly in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Introduction to Diet: Introduce organ meats gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Begin with small amounts, then gradually increase the portion over time.

The Benefits of Organ Meat for Dogs

Organ meats offer several benefits due to their high nutritional content:

1. High in Protein: Organ meats are rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall vitality.
2. Packed with Vital Nutrients: These meats are a concentrated source of vitamins and minerals that are often lacking in commercial dog foods.
3. Natural Source of Healthy Fats: Fats in organ meats are necessary for brain function, a healthy coat, and skin.
4. Promotes Healthy Eyesight: Organ meats, particularly liver, are high in vitamin A, which supports good vision and a robust immune system.
5. Supports Heart Health: The heart muscle is loaded with taurine, a vital nutrient for cardiovascular health, especially in breeds prone to heart issues.

What Do Dogs Need in Their Diets?

Dogs are omnivores, but they require a high proportion of animal-based proteins and fats to thrive. According to the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, a balanced diet for dogs should include:

• Proteins: Essential for muscle growth and tissue repair. At least 18% of a dog’s diet should come from high-quality proteins.
• Fats: Necessary for energy, skin, and coat health. Around 8% of a dog’s diet should be from fats.
• Carbohydrates: Provide energy and help with gastrointestinal health. While not essential, they should be included in moderation.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Support various bodily functions, including bone health, immune response, and metabolism.

Nutritional Benefits of Organ Meats

Organ meat for dogs are nutritional powerhouses compared to regular muscle meats:

1. Rich in Vital Vitamins like Vitamin A ,B Vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12), Vitamin E and K.
2. Packed with Essential Minerals like Iron, Copper and Zinc, Selenium.
3. High-Quality Protein Source like Taurine, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).
4. Natural Source of Healthy Fats.

A study published in The Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition highlighted that organ meats like liver and heart have higher concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy coat and reducing inflammation.

How to Incorporate Organ Meats into Your Dog’s Diet

Introducing organ meats into your dog’s diet can be done in several ways:

1. Raw Feeding: If you practice raw feeding, adding small portions of fresh organ meats to your dog’s meals can provide a variety of nutrients.
2. Cooked Organ Meats: Lightly cooking organ meats can make them more palatable for some dogs. Just avoid using any seasonings or oils.
3. Freeze-Dried or Dehydrated Treats: Freeze-dried organ meats are a convenient way to include them in your dog’s diet as treats or meal toppers.
4. In Commercial Dog Food: Some high-quality commercial dog foods include organ meats as ingredients, which can provide a balanced diet.

Risks and Concerns of Feeding Organ Meats

While organ meats are beneficial, there are potential risks to be aware of:

1. Vitamin A Toxicity: As mentioned earlier, too much liver can lead to vitamin A toxicity. Symptoms include bone deformities, lethargy, and digestive issues.
2. Copper Toxicity: Overfeeding organ meats like liver can result in excess copper, leading to copper storage disease in some dog breeds.
3. Parasites and Bacteria: Raw organ meats can carry parasites or bacteria, such as salmonella. Ensure they are sourced from reputable suppliers and handled with care.
4. Allergic Reactions: Some dogs may be allergic to specific organ meats. Introduce them slowly and observe any adverse reactions, such as itching, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Organ Meat Dog Treats

Organ meat dog treats are perfect for all types of training because dogs are naturally drawn to their rich scent and flavor. For instance, we successfully crate-trained our family Zuzu by rewarding her with slices of dehydrated beef liver. Thanks to these treats, she became comfortable in her crate in less than two weeks.

However, many organ dog treats on the market are merely “organ-flavored” and contain only minimal amounts of real organ meat, with the rest being unhealthy additives and fillers. Furthermore, these treats are often produced using high-temperature processes that destroy many of the heat-sensitive nutrients found in organ meats.

Fortunately, there are healthier options available. High-quality organ meat dog treats are made from a single ingredient—pure organ meat—and are completely free from additives and preservatives. Or you can also make dehydrated organ meat at home. 

Conclusion

Organ meats are a highly nutritious addition to your dog’s diet, offering a range of benefits from essential vitamins and minerals to proteins and healthy fats. However, they should be fed in moderation and balanced with other types of meats, grains, and vegetables. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have existing health conditions. By incorporating organ meats properly, you can enhance your dog’s overall health and provide them with a diet that closely resembles what their ancestors would have eaten in the wild.