Raclette

What is raclette?

Raclette is a semi-soft semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, originally from Valais in Switzerland. It has a mild to spicy taste and a creamy consistency. The name raclette comes from the French word "racler", which means "to scrape". Traditionally, the cheese is heated over an open fire and then scraped off the loaf with a knife.

Nowadays, raclette is usually prepared using a special device consisting of a heating coil and several small pans. The cheese is melted in the pans and then poured over the desired ingredients. Typical ingredients are potatoes, bread, ham, salami, bacon, sausages, mushrooms, peppers, onions, corn or pineapple. Various sauces and salads are often served with it.

Benefits of raclette for dogs

Raclette can have some benefits for dogs if it is fed in moderation. Firstly, the cheese contains a lot of protein, which is important for muscle building and cell regeneration. Secondly, it provides calcium, which ensures strong bones and teeth. Cheese can also aid digestion, as it contains lactic acid bacteria that support the intestinal flora.

The other ingredients in raclette can also be healthy for dogs, as long as they are well tolerated. Potatoes, for example, are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber, which provide energy and satiety. Bread can also provide carbohydrates, but should only be given in small quantities as it can otherwise lead to bloating. Meat is of course an important source of protein for dogs, which also contains iron and other minerals. Vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers or onions can provide vitamins and antioxidants that strengthen the immune system.

Disadvantages of raclette for dogs

However, raclette also has some disadvantages for dogs that should not be ignored. Firstly, the cheese is very high in fat and salt, which can lead to obesity, cardiovascular problems or kidney problems. Secondly, some dogs cannot digest the milk sugar (lactose) in cheese well, which can lead to diarrhea or vomiting.

The other ingredients in raclette can also cause problems if they are in excessive quantities or unsuitable. For example, raw potatoes or potato peelings can be toxic to dogs as they contain solanine. Bread can contain yeast, which can ferment in the stomach and lead to life-threatening gastric torsion. Meat should always be well cooked to kill germs. Vegetables such as onions or garlic are poisonous for dogs as they can damage the blood.

How can I offer my dog raclette?

If you want to treat your dog to a piece of raclette from time to time, there are a few things you should bear in mind. Firstly, you should only give small amounts that make up no more than 10% of the daily calorie intake. Secondly, you should only choose suitable ingredients that your dog tolerates well. For example, you can give him a piece of melted cheese over a boiled potato or a piece of bread. Or you can gratinate a piece of cooked meat or vegetable with some cheese.

However, avoid ingredients that are harmful or incompatible for your dog. For example, you should not give raw or seasoned cheese, raw or seasoned meat, bread with yeast, vegetables with solanine or vegetables with sulphur compounds. You should also not give sauces or salads that contain sugar, salt, vinegar, spices or other additives.