Organ meats, also known as offals, are animal internal organs. These include liver, heart, kidney spleen, gizzard among others. Compared to muscle meats, organ meats are more nutrient-dense and contain high levels of important vitamins, minerals, proteins and other essential nutrients.
Let's explore a few organ meats that we commonly use in our recipes:
1. Liver:
Liver is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse for dogs. It is densely packed with essential vitamins, including A, B, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like iron, copper, and zinc. These various nutrients are crucial for supporting immune system health, vision, and metabolism. Liver is also a rich source of high-quality protein, aiding in muscle development and repair in dogs.
2. Heart:
The heart, although an organ, is also referred to as a muscle. Heart meat is abundant in taurine, an amino acid essential for maintaining heart health and proper cardiac function in dogs. Taurine deficiency can lead to detrimental heart conditions in dogs - therefore, incorporating heart meat in their diet is a healthy and bioavailable way to provide this essential nutrient for your dog. Additionally, heart meat is also a source of lean protein, making it ideal for dogs requiring weight management support.
3. Kidney:
Kidneys are rich in B vitamins, iron, and phosphorus, and aso includes a unique amino acid profile that supports overall health in dogs. Incorporating kidney meat in a regular canine diet provides essential nutrients necessary for metabolic processes and healthy organ function. Furthermore, kidney meat also contributes to hydration as it contains natural moisture, promoting urinary tract health in dogs.
4. Gizzard:
Gizzards are a muscular, pouch-like organ found in the digestive tract of birds, including chickens and turkeys. This organ meat is rich in protein which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscles, and organs in dogs. Gizzards also contain essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins which promote immune system function, metabolism, and blood cell production. The fibrous tissue and tough, muscular texture in gizzard meat can also help promote dental health and aids in digestion and gastrointestinal motility.
Incorporating liver, heart, kidney, and gizzard as part of your dog’s daily diet will provide them with a diverse array of essential nutrients necessary for their overall health and vitality. Our meals have been expertly formulated by veterinary nutritionists to include the optimal ratios of organ meat in each bowl. It is important that the appropriate portion size is always based on your dog's weight, activity level and stage of life.Â
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Sources:
- American Kennel Club. (2020). "The 10 Best Dog Foods for Senior Dogs." Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/best-dog-foods-for-senior-dogs/
- Brown, S. A. (2011). "Nutritional Management of Chronic Kidney Disease." In D. J. Polzin (Ed.), BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Nephrology and Urology (pp. 89-98). Gloucester: British Small Animal Veterinary Association.