Dog food types
Is a raw diet linked to bacterial infections in dogs?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Yes, several studies have found raw-fed dogs are more likely to test positive for bacteria such as salmonella, listeria, and certain strains of E. coli in their stool compared with dogs fed commercial cooked diets, even when the dogs themselves show no symptoms of illness.
What the research generally shows
Surveys testing commercial raw pet food products across Europe and North America have repeatedly found a meaningful percentage of samples, sometimes over 20 percent in certain batches, contaminated with salmonella or listeria, higher than rates found in extruded kibble or canned food.
Why dogs often stay symptom-free
Dogs have a shorter, more acidic digestive tract than humans, which offers some natural protection against these bacteria, meaning many raw-fed dogs carry and shed pathogens without becoming visibly ill themselves.
What this means in practice
This does not mean raw feeding is automatically unsafe, but it does mean sourcing from suppliers who test for pathogens, following strict hygiene, and being aware of the household risk are genuinely important rather than optional precautions.
Key takeaways
- Testing has repeatedly found raw pet food more likely to carry salmonella or listeria than cooked commercial diets.
- Dogs' digestive systems offer some natural protection, so they often show no symptoms while still shedding bacteria.
- Sourcing tested products and strict hygiene are real safety measures, not just extra caution.