I'm New to Raw Feeding. Can You Help?

Absolutely! If you're new to raw feeding, you're not alone. It's natural to have questions, and with so much information available online, it can be difficult to know where to start.

At Naturally Raw, we believe raw feeding doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're simply curious or ready to make the switch, we're here to help you understand the basics and choose the right food for your dog.

What Is Raw Feeding?

Raw feeding is the practice of feeding dogs a diet based on fresh, uncooked ingredients rather than highly processed foods such as kibble.

Most commercially prepared raw foods contain ingredients such as meat, edible bone and offal, carefully combined to provide the nutrients dogs need. Many recipes also include other ingredients, such as vegetables, fruit or natural supplements, depending on the manufacturer and recipe.

Today's commercially prepared raw foods make feeding raw easier than ever, removing much of the guesswork for owners who are just getting started.

Complete or Complementary?

One of the first things you'll notice when looking at raw food is that it's labelled as either complete or complementary.

A complete raw food is nutritionally balanced and designed to provide everything a healthy dog needs when fed as the main diet.

A complementary raw food contains valuable ingredients but isn't nutritionally complete on its own. It should be fed as part of a balanced diet alongside other foods.

If you're new to raw feeding, complete raw meals are usually the simplest place to start.

Do I Need to Make My Own Raw Food?

Not at all.

Many people assume raw feeding means buying lots of different ingredients and balancing everything themselves. While some experienced owners choose to feed a DIY raw diet, it requires a good understanding of canine nutrition to ensure the diet remains balanced.

Commercially prepared complete raw food offers a convenient alternative, providing balanced meals that are ready to defrost and serve.

What Does Raw Feeding Involve?

Feeding raw is often much simpler than people expect.

Most raw food is supplied frozen in convenient tubs, chubs or portions. You'll need enough freezer space to store your dog's food and simply move each meal to the refrigerator to defrost before feeding.

As with any raw meat prepared for human consumption, good hygiene is important. Wash your hands after handling raw food, clean bowls and preparation surfaces thoroughly, and store food safely while it's defrosting.

Will I Need to Feed Different Proteins?

Many owners like to offer a variety of proteins over time, as this can provide dietary variety and make mealtimes more interesting.

However, there's no need to feed lots of different proteins straight away. Many dogs do perfectly well starting with a single protein before gradually introducing others once they're settled.

Will My Dog Need Supplements?

For most healthy dogs eating a high-quality, nutritionally complete raw food, additional supplements aren't usually necessary.

Some dogs with specific medical conditions or individual nutritional requirements may benefit from tailored advice, so if you're ever unsure, we're happy to point you in the right direction.

How Much Should I Feed?

The amount your dog needs depends on several factors, including their age, weight, activity level and body condition.

Raw food manufacturers provide feeding guidelines to help you get started, but every dog is different. Feeding amounts often need adjusting over time to keep your dog in ideal body condition.

If you're unsure how much your dog should be eating, we're always happy to help.

We're Here to Help

Starting your raw feeding journey doesn't mean you need to know everything from day one.

Whether you're choosing your first raw food, trying to understand the different brands, or simply have questions about how raw feeding works, we're here to help. Pop into our shop, give us a call or send us a message—we're always happy to share our knowledge and help you choose the right food for your dog.

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.