New To Raw Feeding

New to Raw Feeding? đŸ¶

Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Thinking about switching your dog to a raw diet but not sure where to begin?

At The Raw Dog Food Depot, we believe feeding your dog should be simple, affordable and convenient.

Whether you’re completely new to raw feeding or just looking to learn more, we’re here to help you understand the basics and get started with confidence.

đŸ„© What Is Raw Dog Feeding?

Raw feeding involves feeding your dog uncooked ingredients such as meat, organs and appropriately prepared raw edible bones.

Some raw diets also contain vegetables, fruit and other ingredients depending on the recipe.

Raw feeding is often referred to as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or PMR (Prey Model Raw).

The most important thing is choosing a diet that provides all the nutrients your dog needs.

🐕 Why Do People Choose Raw Feeding?

Many dog owners choose raw feeding because they prefer greater control over the ingredients in their dog’s meals.

Some commonly reported reasons include:

  • Ingredient transparency: Knowing exactly what goes into your dog’s food.
  • Variety: Offering different protein sources, such as chicken, beef, turkey and lamb.
  • Palatability: Some dogs particularly enjoy the taste and texture of raw food.
  • Flexible feeding: Choosing suitable products and portion sizes for your dog’s individual needs.

While some owners report improvements in coat condition, digestion and stool quality, these benefits aren’t guaranteed, and there is limited scientific evidence that raw diets are healthier than nutritionally complete cooked or commercial diets.

🍗 How Do I Start Raw Feeding?

Step 1: Choose the Right Food

For beginners, we recommend starting with a commercially prepared raw dog food labelled complete, suitable for your dog’s life stage.

A complete food is formulated to provide the nutrients your dog needs when fed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remember, not all raw products are complete meals. Boneless meat, plain mince and some raw mixes are complementary foods and shouldn’t be fed as the sole diet without appropriate nutritional balancing.

Step 2: Work Out How Much to Feed

The correct feeding amount depends on your dog’s weight, age, activity level, body condition and the calorie content of the food.

As a very rough starting point, some adult raw feeding guides suggest around 2–3% of body weight per day, but this isn’t suitable for every dog or every product.

For example:

Dog’s Weight

Approx. Daily Amount

5kg

100–150g

10kg

200–300g

20kg

400–600g

30kg

600–900g

40kg

800g–1.2kg

These figures are illustrative, not a personalised feeding recommendation. Always check the manufacturer’s feeding guide and adjust based on your dog’s needs.

Step 3: Introduce the New Food Carefully

When changing your dog’s diet, a gradual transition over approximately 7–10 days is often a sensible starting point, provided your dog tolerates the food.

Monitor their appetite, stools and general wellbeing throughout the transition.

Dogs with medical conditions, sensitive digestion or special dietary requirements should have their diet discussed with a veterinary professional first.

Step 4: Store and Handle Raw Food Safely

Raw dog food requires careful handling because uncooked meat can contain harmful bacteria.

  • Keep frozen food stored at -18°C or below.
  • Defrost in a sealed container in the fridge, never on the kitchen worktop.
  • Keep raw food separate from food intended for people.
  • Wash your hands, utensils and preparation surfaces thoroughly.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s storage and defrosting instructions.
  • Never feed cooked bones.

Step 5: Find a Routine That Works

Once you’ve chosen an appropriate food, establish a consistent feeding routine and monitor your dog’s weight and body condition.

You can explore different suitable protein sources over time, while ensuring the overall diet remains nutritionally balanced.

❄ Is Raw Feeding Safe?

Raw feeding comes with additional food hygiene considerations.

Raw feeding may not be appropriate for every household or dog. If you’re unsure, speak to your vet or a qualified veterinary nutritionist before making the switch.

🚚 Raw Feeding Made Convenient

At The Raw Dog Food Depot, we make stocking up on raw dog food straightforward.

We offer:

  • ✅ A selection of raw dog food protein options
  • ✅ Fantastic bulk deals to help you stock up
  • ✅ Convenient frozen packaging
  • ✅ FREE next day nationwide delivery on eligible orders
  • ✅ Order before 11am for next day delivery on eligible working days

Our raw dog food is packed with insulation and ice packs and delivered by APC, helping to keep your order frozen during transit.

❀ Ready to Explore Raw Feeding?

Whether you’re just getting started or already know exactly what your dog enjoys, browse our range of raw dog food and bulk deals.

Quality raw dog food. Great bulk prices. Delivered straight to your door.

The Raw Dog Food Depot – Making Raw Feeding Simple.