So /an/, I'm getting my first dog soon, and I'm wondering

Maybe you're overthinking this. I've raised over a dozen dogs on mostly dog food and they've all lived long, healthy lives. Just don't get a dog from a puppy mill, obviously.

Be careful what type of bones/chews you give him. Some dogs try to swallow rawhide and that's bad for them.

>>2210730
Well I figure I may as well go all out and feed him as best I can, since it's still going to be relatively cheap.

Nice to know that about rawhide. I'll definitely keep that in mind.

>>2210730
If you actually look at the ingredients though, most dog foods are complete shit. At least on a natural diet you know what your dog is getting is good for him.

>>2210739
>At least on a natural diet you know what your dog is getting is good for him
why do YOU know that? why do you personally know that unless you've specifically worked in animal nutrition?

OP, this raw feeding meme has been going on for a long time, but here's the thing: there's more to dog nutrition than "your gut feeling". dogs need vitamins and minerals that aren't found in high quantities in meat.

also, if you're thinking raw feeding is going to be "relatively cheap", you're not doing it right.

in addition, raw feeding doesn't protect against parasites and bacteria, so if you're looking for "as few medical bills as possible", you're barking up the wrong tree. feeding raw can also increase the risk of YOU getting sick from handling your dog's feces or allowing him to lick you.

look for a brand like "instinct" that has both dry, wet, and raw dog foods. you can buy them in tubes from a refrigerator in addition to their wet or dry dog food. they're far more nutritionally suited to your dog than just you slapping a raw liver on the floor and calling it a day for your dog's meal.

>>2210747
What other alternatives do I have for those necessary vitamins and minerals if I want to prepare the food myself?