Feeding Your Dog Raw: Complete Guide to a Healthy Raw Diet

Raw Feeding Guide for Dogs: How to Start a Healthy Raw Diet

Welcome to our complete raw feeding guide for dogs — your trusted source for starting a safe, balanced, and nutritious raw diet. Whether you're new to raw feeding or looking to optimise your dog’s diet, this guide will walk you through the essentials, including the benefits of raw food, how much to feed based on your dog’s weight, and important nutritional tips for long-term success.

Why Feed Your Dog a Raw Diet?

Feeding your dog a raw food diet mimics what their ancestors ate in the wild — whole, fresh, unprocessed ingredients packed with natural nutrients. Here are the top benefits of raw feeding:

✅ Enhanced Nutritional Value

Raw diets preserve vital nutrients that are often lost in processed kibble or cooked food.

✅ Better Digestion

A biologically appropriate diet is easier for your dog to digest, reducing bloating, gas, and digestive upset.

✅ Healthier Skin & Shiny Coat

Essential fatty acids in raw meat support a glossy coat and help reduce skin allergies and irritation.

✅ Boosted Energy & Vitality

Many dog owners report increased energy, better stamina, and improved mood in their raw-fed pets.

✅ Natural Dental Health

Chewing raw meaty bones helps clean teeth and promote healthy gums — reducing plaque and tartar buildup naturally.

How Much Raw Food to Feed Your Dog

Determining the right portion is key to your dog’s health. Use these general guidelines based on body weight:

  • Adult Dogs: Feed 2–3% of their ideal body weight daily

  • Puppies: Feed 5–6% of their anticipated adult weight per day (divided into 3–4 meals)

  • Active/Working Dogs: May need 4–6% of their body weight per day

📌 Tip: Monitor your dog’s weight, energy levels, and body condition regularly, and adjust feeding amounts as needed.

Supplements for a Balanced Raw Diet

A properly balanced raw diet provides most nutrients naturally. However, some dogs may benefit from added supplements for optimal health:

🐟 Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Support skin, coat, joints, and reduce inflammation. Sources include fish oil or algae-based supplements.

🦠 Probiotics

Promote gut health, support immunity, and improve digestion. Choose dog-specific probiotic blends.

🍽 Digestive Enzymes

Aid nutrient absorption for dogs with digestive issues or transitioning to raw feeding.

🦴 Joint Support

Glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin can help aging dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.

💊 Essential Vitamins & Minerals

Some dogs may require additional vitamin E, D, or calcium. Always consult your vet before adding supplements.

Key Raw Feeding Tips

✅ Provide Variety

Rotate between proteins like chicken, beef, turkey, and fish. Include organ meats, raw meaty bones, and a small portion of dog-safe vegetables.

✅ Practice Safe Handling

Use clean utensils and surfaces, wash your hands, and store raw meat properly to prevent bacterial contamination.

✅ Choose Bones Wisely

Only feed raw, size-appropriate bones. Never give cooked bones—they can splinter and cause injury.

✅ Gradual Transition is Key

Start by mixing raw food with your dog’s current diet and slowly increase the ratio over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.

✅ Consult with a Professional

Speak with a certified canine nutritionist or your veterinarian to customise a plan for your dog’s age, breed, and health needs.

Raw Feeding Summary: What Dog Owners Should Know

  • ✅ Raw feeding can improve digestion, skin, coat, energy, and dental health

  • ✅ Feed adult dogs 2–3% of body weight daily

  • ✅ Feed puppies 5–6% of anticipated adult weight, divided into meals

  • ✅ Provide a balanced mix of meat, bones, organs, and veggies

  • ✅ Handle raw meat safely and transition gradually

  • ✅ Consult with your vet or a nutritionist for guidance and supplements

Start Your Dog's Raw Feeding Journey Today

Ready to feed your dog a biologically appropriate raw diet? At Teddy’s Raw Pet Food, we offer tailored raw feeding plans, expert consultations, and premium-quality raw meals to support your pet’s health from puppyhood to senior years.

📥 Need Help Getting Started?

Book a consultation with our certified canine nutritionist to get a personalised raw feeding plan for your dog.