I'm New to Raw Feeding – Where Do I Start?

Starting your raw feeding journey can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. There is a huge amount of information online, and not all of it is accurate or suitable for every dog. The most important thing is to take your time, use trusted sources and remember that every dog is an individual.

Start with a Complete & Balanced Food

If you're new to raw feeding, the easiest and safest option is to begin with a complete and balanced commercial raw food from a reputable manufacturer. These foods are formulated to provide all the nutrients your dog needs, so there's no need to worry about balancing meals yourself while you're learning. DIY raw diets can be an excellent option, but they require careful planning to ensure they meet your dog's nutritional requirements.

Transition at Your Dog's Pace

There is no single "correct" way to transition to raw. Some healthy dogs cope well with an immediate switch, while others benefit from a gradual transition over several days or weeks. A slower approach can help some dogs adjust to the change in diet and allows you to identify any ingredients that don't suit your dog. If your dog has an existing medical condition or digestive problems, speak to your veterinary surgeon before making any dietary changes.

Feed the Right Amount

How much to feed depends on your dog's age, weight, body condition, activity level and individual metabolism. Most raw food manufacturers provide feeding guidelines, which are a useful starting point, but you may need to adjust portions to keep your dog at a healthy weight. Regularly monitoring your dog's body condition is more useful than relying on weight alone.

Keep It Simple

When starting out, avoid making lots of changes at once. Choose one complete food, stick with it for a short period and allow your dog's digestive system to adapt. Once they're settled, you can gradually introduce new proteins and varieties if you wish. Variety is beneficial over time, but there's no need to rush into feeding lots of different ingredients immediately.

Buy from Reputable Suppliers

Choose raw food from reputable manufacturers that follow UK regulations for raw pet food production, use appropriate quality controls and provide clear nutritional information. Always store, defrost and handle raw pet food hygienically to reduce the risk of contamination, just as you would when preparing raw meat for your own family.

Ask Questions

No one knows everything when they first begin. If you're unsure about feeding amounts, choosing a product or whether raw feeding is suitable for your dog, ask for advice. For dogs with medical conditions or complex nutritional needs, seek guidance from your veterinary surgeon or a suitably qualified canine nutrition professional.

Trusted Resources

If you'd like to learn more, these organisations provide reliable information and educational resources:

• Raw Feeding For Dogs Made Simple (RFFDMS UK) – Beginner-friendly guides, FAQs and practical resources.

• Raw Pet Medics – Veterinary-led education on raw feeding and species-appropriate nutrition.

• The Raw Feeding Veterinary Society (RFVS) – Evidence-informed information from veterinary professionals, including guidance on balanced diets and food safety.

• The Balanced Canine – Science-led articles, feeding calculators and practical advice on transitioning to raw.

Remember, raw feeding isn't about achieving perfection overnight. Start with the basics, learn as you go, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Disclaimer: This guide is intended for educational purposes and should not replace veterinary advice. If your dog has an existing medical condition or develops concerning symptoms, consult your veterinary surgeon before making further dietary changes.