Is Venison Good for Dogs? Discover the Benefits

August 25, 2025

Pet parents are becoming increasingly mindful of the quality of food they provide to their canine companions. They worry about the quality of ingredients and the type of food they feed their dogs. Chicken and beef are no longer the only two options for protein sources. Each day, a new protein emerges, one of which is venison.

This nutritious, low-fat protein source for dogs comes from antlered game animals, including deer and elk. Venison is a healthy addition to a dog’s diet, but it is important to prepare and serve it properly. Rich in protein and important minerals, let’s talk about the question, “Is venison good for dogs?”

What Is Venison and Why Is It Popular for Dogs?

Venison is a novel protein source, yet one of the most nutritious choices on the market. Many dog food companies avoid it because it can be a bit more expensive than other options. However, with the rising trend of pet humanization, owners are looking for premium venison dog treats and food options. Quality dog nutrition companies that care about providing optimum nutrition know that venison is a great protein source.

Venison is the meat of deer, or other game animals like moose, elk, and caribou. It is a healthy alternative to beef because of its lower fat content and higher protein content. Packed with nutrients that support the health and well-being of dogs, venison provides B vitamins, zinc, and iron.

Most dogs enjoy the flavor, and even dogs that have never had venison look at it as a delicious treat. Owners with picky eaters should give venison a try, as most dogs will enjoy the flavor of deer meat.

Nutritional Benefits of Venison for Dogs

Venison is a novel protein with a low-fat content. Protein is one of the most important nutrients for dogs, as it helps build and repair their muscles, tissues, and organs. In addition to protein, venison also contains amino acids that support optimal health for dogs. Unlike other meat options like beef, venison is low in fat, making it a great choice for dogs that are obese or struggle to maintain a healthy weight. If you're wondering what bones are good for dogs, lean meats like venison often pair well with digestible options like raw, meaty bones—but always consult your vet for safety. Here are four more reasons to feed venison to your dog.

High Vitamin Content

Rich in vitamins and minerals like zinc, iron, and B12, venison supports healthy blood cells, the immune system, the nervous system, and brain function.

Helps with Allergies

Dogs with allergies and food sensitivities will benefit from venison, a novel protein source that is not commonly found in most dog foods. As such, venison is less likely to cause an allergic reaction compared to other meat sources.

Improved Digestion

Because of its low-fat content, venison is a highly digestible meat. Most dogs can break it down and absorb the essential nutrients easily, making it a great choice for canines with digestive issues. Additionally, it contains fiber, helping with healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. If you’re also asking, are chicken hearts good for dogs, they can be a good complement to venison. Both are nutrient-dense and support digestive health when served appropriately.

Promotes Healthy Skin

In addition to protein, venison contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, important nutrients for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Consuming venison reduces inflammation, soothes dry skin, and improves the overall appearance of canines.

Is Venison Safe and Healthy for All Dogs?

Compared to other red meats, venison is lower in calories and cholesterol, all while providing a high amount of vitamins and minerals. In the last several years, venison has risen in popularity as a protein source for dogs. One serving of venison contains between 20 and 25% of protein, making it a premium option.

Venison meat has a low fat content, less than 3%. Additionally, most of the fats, unlike those in beef and pork, are polyunsaturated fatty acids and lower saturated fatty acids that help with inflammation. When buying venison food, pay attention to the origin of the deer. Grass-fed deer have a lower fat content and higher moisture.

Due to its low-fat content, venison is a great option for obese dogs. Feeding venison, a high-protein and low-fat meat, can help dogs lose weight even while consuming the same amount of calories.

Last, but not least, venison can help senior dogs who need more protein to keep their muscles healthy. A higher protein diet can slow down the loss of skeletal mass and muscle in seniors.

How to Incorporate Venison into Your Dog’s Diet

There is an ongoing debate about whether a raw or cooked diet is better for your canine. Some people recommend cooking deer meat to kill off any pathogens or bacteria. However, cooking can reduce the nutritional value.

The best option is to minimally process the meat to reduce the risk of bacteria, all while keeping most of the nutrients. For example, bring water to boil, and gently simmer for several minutes to cook the meat.

Before making venison the primary protein source for your canine, you can try feeding some venison dog treats. One ounce of cooked venison is a great treat for dogs, adding just several calories to their diet.