Raw Dog Food Safety: Handling, Storage & Defrosting

Raw feeding is straightforward once you get into a routine, but good food hygiene matters. The same common sense you apply to handling raw meat in your own kitchen applies here. Here is a practical guide to storing and handling raw dog food safely.

Storing Raw Dog Food

In the freezer

Raw dog food should be kept frozen until you are ready to use it. Store it in the freezer in its original packaging where possible, and keep it away from human food to avoid any risk of cross-contamination. Most raw dog food will keep well in the freezer for several months, but always check the best-before date on the packaging.

Defrosting safely

Always defrost raw food in the fridge, not on the worktop. Move the next meal from the freezer to the fridge the evening before you need it. This keeps the food at a safe temperature throughout the defrosting process and reduces bacterial growth.

Do not defrost raw pet food in warm water or in the microwave. Defrost in a covered, labelled container in the fridge away from human food. Once fully thawed, follow the manufacturer's use-by instructions; do not refreeze previously defrosted raw meals.

In the fridge

Once defrosted, keep raw food in a covered, labelled container on the lowest fridge shelf, away from food for people. Follow the pack's instructions and use promptly; PDSA advises using defrosted raw meat within 24 hours. Never leave it at room temperature to thaw.

Handling Raw Dog Food

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw food.
• Use dedicated utensils for your dog's food where possible, or wash them thoroughly after use.
• Clean surfaces that have come into contact with raw food with hot soapy water or a food-safe disinfectant.
• Wash your dog's bowl after every meal. Raw food residue left in a bowl can harbour bacteria.
• Clear away uneaten raw food promptly. Discard leftovers rather than returning food from your dog's bowl to the fridge, and thoroughly clean the bowl and feeding area.

Households with Vulnerable People

If you have young children, elderly people or anyone with a compromised immune system in your household, take extra care with hygiene around raw pet food. The Food Standards Agency recommends that raw pet food is handled with the same precautions as raw meat intended for human consumption. Keep children away from the dog's feeding area during and after mealtimes, and make sure hands are washed after any contact with the food or the dog's bowl.

Natural Chews and Bones

The same hygiene principles apply to natural chews and raw bones. Give them in a designated area that is easy to clean, wash hands after handling, and dispose of any leftover pieces promptly rather than leaving them lying around.

Keeping It Simple

Good hygiene around raw feeding does not need to be complicated. A consistent routine of washing hands, cleaning bowls and surfaces, and defrosting in the fridge covers the vast majority of what you need to do. Most raw feeders find it quickly becomes second nature.

If you are just getting started with raw feeding, our raw feeding guide covers everything from choosing the right food to portion sizes and storage. Browse our complete raw meals for a straightforward way to get started.

Independent UK food safety guidance

For detailed guidance, read the Food Standards Agency's raw pet food handling advice and PDSA's veterinary advice on raw diets. Raw pet food can carry harmful bacteria even when it looks and smells normal.