Raw feeding has been gaining popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional commercial dog food; although the fact is that raw feeding has been around longer than any other way of feeding. (Just ask Henry VIII, I’m pretty sure he never bought kibble or tinned food!!!).
The concept is simple – providing dogs with a diet that is closer to what their ancestors ate in the wild. A raw food diet is composed of fresh, uncooked ingredients that are nutritionally balanced meeting your dog’s needs. Raw feeding is exactly what it sounds like – feeding your dog raw, unprocessed foods like meat, bone, vegetables, and fruits. 
You can use a pre-packed raw food diet, or create your own meal plan using raw ingredients.
Many pet owners have reported numerous benefits from switching to a raw diet for their furry friends. In this post, I am exploring the benefits of raw feeding, the different types of raw food, any concerns or risks associated with raw feeding, and tips for getting started.
Feeding Raw
When it comes to raw feeding, there are a few different types of raw food that can be fed to dogs. Raw muscle meat is the foundation of the diet and should make up most your dog’s meals, while raw bones, either as whole bones or ground, can provide essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.
Raw offal, such as liver, kidney, and heart, is rich in nutrients like vitamin A, iron, B vitamins and other essential nutrients which are not found in muscle meat. It’s important to note that while dogs are carnivores, it’s still essential to provide your dog with a balanced diet, including small amounts of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and spinach and can be added to the diet for additional fibre and nutrients – (this would replace the fibre found naturally in a preys gut). Feeding some raw fruits, such as apples and bananas as treats, is also beneficial. Feeding raw has also been proven to reduce the risk of some health problems, such as allergies, and can help dogs maintain a healthy weight.
Benefits of Raw Feeding
The benefits of raw feeding are numerous. First and foremost:
- Raw feeding helps improve a dog’s digestion. Raw food is easier to digest than processed dog food, which often contains fillers and additives. Raw food is easier for dogs to digest because it contains natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria that help break down the food. This can lead to better nutrient absorption and less strain on the digestive system.
- Raw feeding can result in healthier skin and a shinier coat, as the natural oils in raw food help nourish a dog’s skin and coat, leading to less shedding and less itchiness.
- Raw feeding can also promote better dental health. Chewing on raw bones can help clean a dog’s teeth and prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar.
- Raw feeding releases dopamine, which helps relax and calm dogs (the feel good hormone), great for dogs with aggression issues and anxiety/stress issues.
In short raw feeding
- Supports oral health
- Supports digestive health
- Supports immunity
- Supports skin and coat health
- Contributes to weight management
- Reduces waste
- Supports mobility
- Reduces allergies and intolerance’s
- Reduces stress
While there are many benefits to raw feeding, there are also some concerns and risks that pet owners should be aware of. The main concern people speak of is raw feeding is the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw food can contain harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which can be dangerous for both dogs and humans. It’s important to handle raw food carefully and follow proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. It is also important to note that kibble contains harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli and has been scientifically proven to contain more than raw.
Start Raw Feeding
If you’re considering switching to a raw diet for your dog, or your puppy, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to gradually introduce raw food into your dog’s diet to allow their digestive system to adjust. Start by adding small amounts of raw food to their regular diet and slowly increase the amount over a couple of weeks.
Second, it is important to feed a variety of foods to ensure that your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients. This can include different types of meat, bone, and offal, as well as a variety of vegetables and fruits. A dog needs an average of 5 different proteins for a balanced diet
Finally, it is important to ensure that your dog is getting all of the necessary nutrients and that the diet is appropriate for their individual needs. Check out our frequently asked questions page and please feel free to Contact Us if you would like assistance with this, we would be happy to help.
In conclusion, raw feeding can be a great way to provide your dog with a healthy and natural diet. Feeding your dog raw, unprocessed foods, helps improve their digestion, promotes healthy skin and coat, and reduces the risk of health problems.
