Yes, They can. Tender venison and deer meat have been a delicacy for a few years. Meanwhile, more and more dogs may also be pleased with the palate feast. But the meat convinces not only taste because it is also very healthy! We report on the countless benefits of venison and deer meat for dogs!
Deer and venison are different animals!
Did you know that deer and venison are two different animals? Although they both belong to the deer family, they differ significantly in their way of life. Deer prefer to live in packs – this can be a “family pack” consisting only of doe, stag, and fawn, but also a pack of over 100 animals. Deer, on the other hand, are solitary animals and only join together to form a pack in winter.
Visually, there are also apparent differences between the two animal species: Deer can reach a body height of up to 140 centimeters and a weight of around 250 kilograms. Deer are much more miniature, with a maximum height of about 75 centimeters, and usually weigh only about 25 kilograms. Both animals form antlers, but deer antlers turn out much more significant. The stag sheds its antlers in March/April, whereas the roe deer sheds it in November/December. However, the differences between the two animals do not only extend to their appearance and lifestyle, as their meat also has tender differences!
“The “deer” family is divided into “true deer,” which includes red and fallow deer, and “tough deer,” which includes roe deer, elk, and reindeer.”
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Difference between venison and deer meat
Deer meat has a deep red, almost brownish color, making it darker than venison. Only calf meat is slightly lighter in color. Taste-wise, both types of meat have a robust, gamey flavor, although the taste is usually a bit spicier during mating. They also have in common that they are deficient in fat and rich in protein. This is partly why venison and deer meat are recommended alternatives to poultry and beef for dogs.
Deer meat rolls – deer and venison meat for dogsDeer neck cut – deer and venison meat for dogs.
How healthy are deer and venison meat?
Meat is an excellent source of protein and energy, which is why it should make up most of your dog’s diet. Venison and deer meat stand out for their protein content, around 20 grams per 100 grams. The fat content of the same amount of meat is about three grams, which is extremely low.
However, meat not only provides the animals with energy but also with numerous vitamins and minerals. The content of B vitamins and zinc, iron, and selenium is exceptionally high. Accordingly, it can be said that venison or deer meat for dogs is not only a delicacy but also a healthy food source.
Most dogs tail-waggingly accept the delicate meat of deer and venison. Best of all, you can feed it to any dog in principle! Both types of meat are well tolerated, and easily digestible, so sensitive pets can be fed it without any problems.
The lean meat variety is ideal even during a diet because it does not beat on the hips. If your four-legged friend is allergic and on an exclusion diet, you can also happily feed him venison and deer meat. These meats are hypoallergenic and an excellent alternative to poultry and beef. Integrating the delicacies into the diet is also practical without much effort. This applies as the primary food, dog chew, or double!
How do you feed deer meat to dogs?
Meanwhile, more and more specialty retailers offer dog food with venison or deer as wet and dry food. Both types of meat are often combined and offered as “venison .”Likewise, they are available as single proteins, with only one type of meat.
If you do without conventional dog food and prefer to cook fresh, you can prepare the meat yourself. You can buy the pieces of meat fresh or frozen in well-stocked delicatessen markets or directly from a hunter you trust.
In general, it is advisable to cook game meat properly to kill any pathogens. However, if you do not cook yourself but still want to spoil your pet with the delicacies, chews made from deer meat for dogs are a great option!
The selection of chews from deer or venison is considerable, so you are sure to find the right chew for your furry nose! For smaller dogs, for example, deer lungs, rumen, deer meat rolls, or deer ears are suitable. These chews also have only a medium degree of hardness and can therefore be eaten by most animals without any problems.
The situation is different with chews such as neck tendons, shoulder blade tendons, or whole lower legs – optionally with or without fur. These are characterized by an exceptionally high degree of hardness and provide long-lasting nibbling fun.
If you are looking for small treats, you will, of course, also find them! Training cubes and chocolates for dogs fit in any jacket pocket and can thus be quickly taken along for training and walks. Whether hard or soft, small or large – the chews are available in different varieties so that you can spoil your dog with the delicacies in any case!
What you should pay attention to when buying deer meat
Also, with the dog food, there are apparent quality differences, which can be recognized usually only on the second view. You are on the safe side if you always take a look at the contents.
There you will find all the ingredients in descending order and can thus see what is contained in the snack or food. Ideally, the meat comes first and is followed by other high-quality ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, and oils. Caution is advised when artificial additives, such as colorings and flavorings, are mixed in. These substances are usually not helpful and can sometimes even be harmful to health! The same applies to sugar, which only serves to enhance the taste. It is best if the feed is as natural as possible and ideally from EU manufacturers.
Deer and venison meat is recommended in every way!
Deer meat not only ends up on our plates as a delicacy because it is also increasingly found in dog food. Rightly so, because the meat convinces with high protein content and low fat, you can easily feed deer meat in the form of dry or wet food or prepare it yourself. Likewise, various chews will taste good to your dog and promote his health!
