The answer is short and clear: no, dogs should not eat filet americain. As a dog food specialist, I regularly see owners who think this raw meat product is fine for their dog, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. There are quite a few risks involved.
Why filet americain is dangerous for dogs
The biggest problem is bacterial contamination. Filet americain is raw meat that often contains bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. These can cause serious gastrointestinal problems in dogs, from diarrhoea to severe vomiting episodes.
But that’s not all. Most filet americain contains herbs and additives that are toxic to dogs. Onion and garlic are often on the ingredients list, and these can cause anaemia in dogs. From personal experience, I know many owners aren’t aware of this.
The soft, sticky texture can also cause problems. It can pose a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs who take large bites.
What if my dog accidentally ate filet americain
Don’t panic if your dog sneakily had a bite. A small amount usually doesn’t cause immediate problems. However, do keep a close eye on your dog for vomiting, diarrhoea, or other signs of discomfort.
For larger amounts or if your dog becomes ill, contact your vet. I always advise playing it safe – better to make one call too many than too few.
Healthy alternatives for your dog
Fortunately, there are plenty of safe alternatives if you want to treat your dog to meat. Plain boiled chicken is always a hit. Most dogs also love lean beef or turkey, thoroughly cooked.
If you still want to give raw meat, only use specially prepared dog meat from the pet shop that has been checked for bacteria. Just as with other foods – figs for example – not everything we eat is suitable for our four-legged friends.
The raw meat myth
On dog forums, you often read that raw meat is actually good for dogs. That’s partly true – dogs can indeed handle raw meat. But filet americain isn’t just any raw meat. It’s full of additives and is stored differently than specially prepared dog meat.
Moreover, our domestic dogs are no longer the same as their wild ancestors. Through domestication, their digestion has become somewhat more sensitive to certain bacteria.
My advice as a food specialist
Keep filet americain for yourself and give your dog food that’s specially made for them. There are so many delicious and safe treats available that you really don’t need to experiment with human food.
If you enjoy cooking for your dog, opt for simple, unprocessed ingredients. Cooked meat without seasonings, some vegetables that are suitable for dogs, and you’ve got a perfect meal.