Organ meats , also called "offal," are the internal organs of animals that are edible and can be combined as part of a balanced diet. This meat comes from the liver, heart, brain, and intestines, of farm animals such as cows, pigs, lambs, goats, and chickens. It is similar to muscle meat but has a softer texture and is more densely packed with nutrients.

Organ meats are full of nutrients like vitamins A, B vitamins, D, E, K, iron, magnesium, zinc, essential fatty acids, and protein. However, the nutrient varies depending on the animal the meat comes from and the specific organ; beef kidney, for example, contains very different nutrients from lamb livers, even though both are highly nutritious.

Our canine friends are descended from their wild wolf-like ancestors, for whom offal would be the most nutrient-dense part of their prey. The unique nutrients and essential amino acids they contain have numerous functions in the body, including brain development, building muscle, and oxygen transport.

Organ meat has an important part to play in a dog's diet, as it is packed with essential nutrients for your dog’s overall health and well-being. These nutrients include vitamins like B12 and folate and minerals like iron and zinc.

Organ meat is renowned for its high  protein content, which is central to muscle development, tissue repair, and general growth. Therefore, the high protein content in organ meat makes it a valuable component of your dog’s diet. 

These meats contain natural  enzymes that can help prevent  stomach issues and improve your dog's digestive health. The enzymes aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

 omega-3The meat from organs is rich in  omega-3 , which is important for maintaining your dog’s healthy skin and shiny coat. This is particularly true for grass-fed animals. It can help to reduce dryness, itching, and inflammation of the skin. Dogs with a meat-rich diet often have a noticeably glossier coat than their grain-fed counterparts.

Certain meats from organs, such as beef liver, contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which are beneficial for joint health. These compounds help maintain the integrity of cartilage and reduce the risk of joint disorders such as  arthritis in dogs.

Feeding your dog a balanced diet that includes these meats can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and ensure that your pet receives all the essential nutrients it needs for optimal health and vitality, from a natural source.

When it comes to incorporating new foods into your dog’s diet, the best way to do it depends on what else you are feeding your dog.

If you normally feed a commercial diet, it is not necessary to switch to raw dog food in order to incorporate offal. The most convenient way to provide these essential nutrients is to add an organ supplement to the food, such as Primal-Vitality™ Beef Organ Complex.

If you are feeding your dogs raw or home-cooked food, powdered supplements also provide a convenient addition to the muscle meat you offer to your canine friend. However, you can also consider including organ meats directly in the raw diet. Sourcing is key here, as you want to know that the organs you offer to your pet have been handled and prepared in a way that is safe for your dog to eat to prevent  parasitic or bacterial infection . It is best to make these changes gradually while monitoring the response of your dog's digestive system to these new additions. If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

Overall, while meats from organs can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, responsible sourcing, proper handling, and cautious introduction are the keys to ensuring their safety and well-being.

When feeding these meats to your dog, it's essential to do so in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Always consult your veterinarian first for new meals and diet plans to determine the best organ meat to use and the appropriate portion size for your dog.