A new social media trend has emerged among dog owners, captivating millions of viewers worldwide. Pet owners are now serving their dogs lavish platters of raw meat, often complete with bones, in a bid to replicate what they consider a “paleo” or ancestral diet. From chicken carcasses to lamb heads, duck wings, and goose necks, these extravagant spreads are displayed in viral videos across TikTok and Instagram, where dogs devour them with astonishing speed, often in less than a minute, while bone-crunching sound effects play for dramatic effect.
The spectacle has caught the imagination of dog lovers everywhere, with many viewers praising the creativity and indulgence of their owners. The videos often show exceptionally trained dogs waiting patiently for a signal before consuming their feast, reinforcing the impression of discipline, sophistication, and even health-conscious feeding. The trend has been labeled “paleo pooches” by social media enthusiasts, who emphasize the supposed health benefits of a raw, protein-rich diet modeled on what canines might have eaten in the wild.
However, veterinarians and animal health experts are raising serious concerns about the risks associated with feeding dogs raw meat and bones. They warn that this trend, while visually appealing and seemingly harmless, could be potentially deadly. The excitement generated online does not change the fact that bones—raw or cooked—pose significant hazards to dogs.
The Risks of Bones
Traditionally, humans have given dogs bones to gnaw on, a practice that has been common for centuries. The phrase “give a dog a bone” dates back at least 200 years, symbolizing both generosity and simple pleasure. While bones may seem like a natural treat for dogs, veterinary professionals stress that this practice is fraught with dangers.
Cooked bones, in particular, are highly dangerous because the cooking process makes them brittle. When chewed, these bones are prone to splintering, creating sharp fragments that can perforate a dog’s stomach or intestines—a medical emergency that can be life-threatening. Raw bones, though softer than cooked bones, are not without risk. They can still splinter or break teeth and, in some cases, cause choking or gastrointestinal blockages.
Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux, senior vice president of the British Veterinary Association, emphasizes the dangers: “Raw bones can cause blockages in the stomach or intestines. And as with raw meat, they can pose a potential disease risk in dogs.” Veterinary hospitals, including Doncaster Veterinary Hospital, echo this sentiment, stating, “While cooked bones are certainly not safe for dogs, neither are all raw bones, and there is always a risk when giving a dog any type of bone.”
In addition to physical risks, raw meat and bones carry bacterial hazards. Pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Listeria can be present in uncooked animal products, posing threats not only to dogs but also to humans who come into contact with contaminated surfaces or feces. According to Lauren Bennett, scientific and policy officer at the RSPCA, “These infections can be particularly serious for people and dogs who are pregnant, older, or immune-compromised. Those who choose to feed raw diets should be aware of the risks and remain vigilant with their hygiene.”
Emily Johnson is a critically acclaimed essayist and novelist known for her thought-provoking works centered on feminism, women’s rights, and modern relationships. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Emily grew up with a deep love of books, often spending her afternoons at her local library. She went on to study literature and gender studies at UCLA, where she became deeply involved in activism and began publishing essays in campus journals. Her debut essay collection, Voices Unbound, struck a chord with readers nationwide for its fearless exploration of gender dynamics, identity, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary society. Emily later transitioned into fiction, writing novels that balance compelling storytelling with social commentary. Her protagonists are often strong, multidimensional women navigating love, ambition, and the struggles of everyday life, making her a favorite among readers who crave authentic, relatable narratives. Critics praise her ability to merge personal intimacy with universal themes. Off the page, Emily is an advocate for women in publishing, leading workshops that encourage young female writers to embrace their voices. She lives in Seattle with her partner and two rescue cats, where she continues to write, teach, and inspire a new generation of storytellers.
