Raw Dog Food Diet: Complete Beginner's Guide for Pet Parents in 2025
Food is one of the most important things in your dog's life. As pet owners, we want to give our furry friends the best possible nutrition to keep them healthy and happy. Raw dog food has become very popular in the UK, but many owners still have questions about whether it is the right choice for their pets.
If you are looking for premium pet products to support your dog's health and nutrition, Buggaz.com offers a curated selection of high-quality options for every pet's needs.
In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about raw feeding, from what it includes to how much you should feed your dog. We will also look at the benefits, risks, and expert opinions to help you make the best decision for your companion.
What is Raw Dog Food?
Raw dog food is a diet based on uncooked ingredients instead of processed kibble or tinned food. The idea comes from what dogs ate in the wild before they became our pets.
A raw food diet usually includes:
- Muscle meat (often still on the bone)
- Organ meats like liver and kidneys
- Whole or ground bones
- Raw eggs
- Fresh vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and celery
- Fruits like apples
- Some dairy products like yogurt
This type of diet is naturally lower in carbohydrates and higher in fat compared to traditional dog food. Many raw feeders believe it is closer to what nature intended for dogs.
Is Raw Food Good for Dogs?
The answer is not simple. Raw feeding has both supporters and critics in the veterinary world.
Many dog owners who feed raw report positive changes in their pets. They notice shinier coats, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, higher energy levels, and smaller stools. Some also say their dogs have better muscle mass and fresher breath.
However, there is limited scientific research to prove these benefits. Some experts argue that the improvements could be due to the high fat content in raw diets, which you can also find in some high-quality commercial foods.
The primary concern is safety. Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. These bacteria can make your dog sick and can also spread to humans in your household, especially children or people with weak immune systems.
Types of Raw Dog Food Available in the UK
If you decide to try raw feeding, you have several options:
Complete Raw Dog Food
Complete raw dog food is professionally made with all the nutrients your dog needs. These products follow strict guidelines and are tested to make sure they are balanced. Brands like Natures Menu raw dog food are popular choices in the UK because they take the guesswork out of feeding.
Frozen Raw Dog Food
Frozen raw dog food is convenient and easy to store. You keep it in your freezer and defrost what you need each day. Many UK suppliers offer home delivery, so you can search for "raw dog food near me" to find local options.
Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food
Freeze-dried raw dog food is lightweight and does not need freezing. It is perfect for travel or if you have limited freezer space. You just add water before serving.
Homemade Raw Food
Some owners prefer to prepare raw meals themselves. This gives you complete control over ingredients, which is helpful if your dog has food allergies. However, getting the nutrition balance right can be tricky without expert guidance.
80 10 10 Raw Dog Food
The 80 10 10 raw dog food formula is a popular feeding method. It means 80% meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meat. This ratio aims to match what a dog would eat in nature.
How Much Raw Food Should My Dog Eat?
One of the most common questions is "how much raw food to feed my dog?" The answer depends on several factors.
Using a Raw Dog Food Calculator
A raw food calculator dog tool helps you work out the right amount. Most calculators ask for:
- Your dog's current weight
- Activity level (low, medium, high)
- Age (puppy, adult, senior)
- Whether they are spayed or neutered
As a general rule, adult dogs need about 2-3% of their body weight in raw food each day. For example, a 20kg dog would eat roughly 400-600g of raw food daily.
Puppies need more because they are growing. They usually require 5-10% of their body weight, depending on their age and breed size.
Active or working dogs may need more food, while less active dogs may need less to avoid weight gain.
How Much Raw Food to Feed Your Dog
Here is a simple breakdown:
Small Dogs (up to 10kg): 200-300g per day
Medium Dogs (10-25kg): 300-750g per day
Large Dogs (25-45kg): 750-1350g per day
Extra Large Dogs (over 45kg): 1350g+ per day
Remember, these are starting points. Watch your dog's weight and energy levels, and adjust the portions as needed. If your dog is losing weight, feed a bit more. If they are gaining too much, feed a bit less.
How to Feed Raw Dog Food
Starting a raw dog food diet needs careful planning. Here is how to do it safely:
Making the Switch
Do not change your dog's food suddenly. A quick switch can upset their stomach and cause diarrhea or vomiting.
Introduce raw food gradually over 7-10 days:
- Days 1-2: 25% raw, 75% old food
- Days 3-4: 50% raw, 50% old food
- Days 5-6: 75% raw, 25% old food
- Days 7+: 100% raw food
Some dogs can switch faster, while others need more time. Watch your dog's poop and overall comfort during the transition.
Meal Frequency
Adult dogs usually eat once or twice a day. Puppies need more frequent meals:
- 8-12 weeks: 4 meals daily
- 3-6 months: 3 meals daily
- 6+ months: 2 meals daily
Storage and Handling
Proper storage is critical for safety:
- Keep frozen raw dog food in the freezer until needed
- Defrost in the fridge, not on the counter
- Store defrosted food on the bottom shelf to prevent drips
- Use within 2-3 days once thawed
- Throw away any uneaten food after 15 minutes
- Use separate bowls, knives, and chopping boards for raw pet food
Can You Cook Raw Dog Food?
Some owners ask "can you cook raw dog food?" if they are worried about bacteria.
Yes, you can cook raw dog food, but it then becomes a cooked diet, not a raw diet. Cooking kills harmful bacteria, which makes it safer. However, it also changes the nutrients and loses some of the benefits that raw feeders value.
If you want to cook your dog's food, make sure you still provide balanced nutrition. Cooked homemade diets should be designed by a veterinary nutritionist to avoid deficiencies.
Benefits of Raw Dog Food Diet
Supporters of the raw dog food diet report many advantages:
Better Coat and Skin
Many owners notice their dog's coat becomes shinier and softer within weeks of switching. Skin problems like itching and dryness often improve too.
Dental Health
Chewing on raw meaty bones can help clean teeth naturally. This may reduce plaque and keep gums healthier.
More Energy
Dogs on raw diets often seem more lively and alert. Owners say their pets act younger and more playful.
Smaller, Firmer Stools
Raw food is more digestible than some processed foods. This means less waste and easier cleanup in the garden.
Better Digestion
Some dogs with sensitive stomachs do better on raw food. It can help with issues like gas, loose stools, and upset tummies.
Ingredient Control
Making raw food yourself means you know exactly what your dog is eating. This is helpful for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
Risks of Raw Dog Food
Raw feeding is not without concerns. Here are the main risks:
Bacterial Contamination
Raw meat can carry dangerous bacteria. A study tested 60 raw dog food samples from UK and European manufacturers. All of them contained bacteria, and more than half had levels above safe limits.
These bacteria can make your dog ill. They can also spread to humans, especially children, elderly people, or anyone with a weak immune system.
Nutritional Imbalance
Homemade raw diets are hard to get right. Too little calcium and phosphorus can cause weak bones and broken teeth. Too much liver can lead to vitamin A toxicity. Getting the balance wrong can harm your dog's health over time.
This is why complete raw dog food from reputable brands is often safer. These products are tested and balanced to meet all nutritional needs.
Choking and Injuries
Bones are a key part of raw feeding, but they come with risks. Dogs can choke on small bones or get blockages in their stomach or intestines. They can also break teeth on hard bones.
Never feed cooked bones. Cooking makes bones brittle and sharp, which is very dangerous. Raw bones are softer but still need supervision.
Not Suitable for All Dogs
Raw food is not right for every dog:
- Puppies need precise nutrition for proper growth
- Dogs with cancer or on chemotherapy should avoid raw food
- Dogs with weak immune systems are at higher risk
- Dogs with pancreatitis or liver problems may need cooked food
- Homes with young children or immunocompromised people should consider the hygiene risks
What Do Experts Say?
Veterinary opinions on raw feeding are divided.
Some vets support raw diets when done properly. They point to the anecdotal benefits reported by owners and believe that high-quality raw food can be part of a healthy diet.
However, major veterinary organizations express caution. The FDA and many mainstream vets warn about bacterial risks and nutritional imbalances. They recommend cooked homemade diets designed by certified nutritionists as a safer alternative to commercial food.
In the UK, Defra states that raw pet food should always come from ingredients fit for human consumption. It should be handled with the same care as any raw meat to prevent food-borne illness.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association highlights the contamination risks, while the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society argues that evidence supporting raw feeding is growing.
How to Handle Raw Dog Food Safely
If you choose to feed raw, follow these hygiene rules:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling raw food
- Use dedicated equipment like bowls, knives, and cutting boards only for pet food
- Clean all surfaces with disinfectant after preparing raw meals
- Store properly in sealed containers away from human food
- Defrost safely in the fridge, never at room temperature
- Supervise feeding so you can remove bones if needed
- Pick up uneaten food quickly to prevent bacteria growth
- Watch for illness in your dog and family members
Popular Raw Dog Food Brands in the UK
If you are looking for quality raw food, here are some trusted UK options:
Natures Menu Raw Dog Food
Natures Menu is one of the most popular brands in the UK. They offer complete raw meals in nugget form, making feeding easy and mess-free. Their recipes are nutritionally balanced and use quality ingredients.
Middleton Raw Dog Foods
Middleton raw dog foods focus on natural, wholesome ingredients. They provide a range of complete meals suitable for different dog sizes and dietary needs.
Cheapest Raw Dog Food UK Options
Raw feeding can be expensive, but there are ways to save money:
- Buy in bulk when brands offer discounts
- Look for multi-buy deals from online retailers
- Check local butchers for affordable meat scraps and bones
- Join raw feeding groups where members share supplier recommendations
- Use a raw dog food calculator to avoid overfeeding and waste
Remember, cheaper is not always better. Make sure any raw food you buy meets nutritional standards and comes from reputable sources.
Should You Choose Raw Food for Your Dog?
Deciding whether to feed raw is a personal choice that depends on many factors:
- Your dog's health and age
- Your lifestyle and available time
- Your budget
- Your comfort level with handling raw meat
- Your household situation (children, immune-compromised family members)
If you are interested in raw feeding, talk to your vet first. They know your dog's health history and can advise whether raw food is appropriate. Consider starting with a complete raw dog food from a certified UK brand rather than making it yourself.
You might also try a mixed approach, combining high-quality kibble with some raw meals to get benefits from both.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much raw food to feed dog per day?
Feed adult dogs 2-3% of their body weight daily. For a 20kg dog, that is 400-600g. Puppies need 5-10% depending on age. Use a raw food calculator dog tool for precise amounts based on your dog's specific needs.
Is raw food good for dogs with allergies?
Raw food can help dogs with food allergies because you control all ingredients. You can avoid common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy. However, make sure the diet is still nutritionally complete.
Can puppies eat raw dog food?
Puppies can eat raw food, but getting the nutrition right is critical. Incorrect calcium and phosphorus ratios can cause bone problems and growth issues. Consult a veterinary nutritionist if feeding raw to puppies.
Where can I find raw dog food near me?
Search online for "raw dog food near me" to find local suppliers. Many UK pet shops now stock frozen raw food. You can also order from online retailers who deliver to your door. Popular options include Natures Menu, Nutriment, and Paleo Ridge.
How long does frozen raw dog food last?
Frozen raw dog food can stay in the freezer for 6-12 months. Once defrosted, use it within 2-3 days. Never refreeze raw food after it has thawed.
Do I need to add supplements to raw dog food?
If you use complete raw dog food from reputable brands, you do not need supplements. These products are already balanced. If you make raw food yourself, you may need to add vitamins and minerals. Ask a vet nutritionist for guidance.
Can I mix raw food with kibble?
Many owners successfully mix raw with kibble. However, some believe this can cause digestive issues because raw and kibble digest at different speeds. Try it gradually and watch how your dog responds.
What is the 80 10 10 rule in raw feeding?
The 80 10 10 raw dog food rule means 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meat (with half being liver). This ratio aims to replicate what dogs would eat in nature.
How do I know if raw food is working for my dog?
Look for these positive signs: shiny coat, healthy skin, good energy, firm stools, clean teeth, and healthy weight. If you see digestive problems, weight loss, or illness, consult your vet.
Is raw feeding more expensive than kibble?
Raw food typically costs more than mid-range kibble but may be similar to premium brands. Costs vary depending on where you buy and whether you prepare it yourself. Use our tips to find the cheapest raw dog food UK options without sacrificing quality.
Final Thoughts
Raw dog food can offer benefits like improved coat condition, better dental health, and more energy. However, it also comes with risks including bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances.
If you decide to try raw feeding, choose complete raw dog food from certified UK brands, follow strict hygiene practices, and work with your vet to monitor your dog's health. Use a raw dog food calculator to ensure proper portions, and transition slowly to avoid stomach upset.
At Buggaz.com, we understand that every dog is unique. What works for one may not work for another. The most important thing is choosing a diet that keeps your dog healthy, happy, and thriving.
Whether you feed raw, kibble, or a combination, make sure it provides complete nutrition for your dog's life stage and activity level. Your vet is your best partner in making this important decision.
Ready to explore raw feeding options? Visit Buggaz.com to discover quality raw dog food products suitable for UK pet owners. We are here to support you in giving your dog the best possible nutrition.