Top 10 Myths About Raw Feeding and the Truth Behind Them

Raw feeding has become much more mainstream over the past few years, but there is still a lot of misinformation floating around. If you have been put off by something you have heard, it is worth separating fact from fiction. Here are ten of the most common myths about raw feeding, and the truth behind them.

1. Can raw food carry harmful bacteria?

Yes. Dogs can become ill or carry and shed harmful bacteria without obvious symptoms. Stomach acidity does not make raw meat risk-free. Careful sourcing, cold storage and hygiene reduce exposure but do not remove every risk to pets or people.

Myth 2: Raw Feeding Is Too Complicated

Commercially prepared complete food can simplify choosing a balanced meal, provided it is suitable for your dog’s life stage and fed as directed. An 80/10/10 ratio alone is not proof of completeness. Frozen food also needs planned storage, defrosting and cleaning.

3. Are raw bones risk-free?

No. Never feed cooked bones, but raw bones can also fracture teeth, choke a dog or obstruct or injure the digestive tract. Supervision cannot eliminate these risks. Ask your vet about appropriate chewing and dental care; whole bones are not required alongside a suitable complete food.

Myth 4: Raw Feeding Is Expensive

Compare actual daily food costs, delivery and freezer needs. We cannot promise that changing food reduces vet bills, dental treatments or supplement costs. Our monthly budget guide shows food and bulk-order examples.

Myth 5: Dogs Need Grains and Carbohydrates

Dogs can digest appropriately cooked carbohydrates. Whether a diet contains grain does not by itself establish its quality or suitability. Judge nutritional balance and the individual dog; investigate suspected allergies with your vet.

Myth 6: Raw Feeding Causes Aggression

There is no scientific evidence to support this. The idea that feeding raw meat makes dogs aggressive is a myth. Behaviour is shaped by training, socialisation and environment, not by what is in the food bowl.

Myth 7: Vets Do Not Recommend Raw Feeding

Veterinary guidance stresses nutritional adequacy and the infection risks of uncooked animal products. Discuss the specific food and your household circumstances with your vet rather than assuming all vets support or oppose every raw diet.

Myth 8: Raw Food Does Not Provide Complete Nutrition

A properly formulated raw food can be complete, but meat, bone and offal in a particular ratio do not automatically provide all required nutrients. Read the specific complete or complementary statement and life-stage guidance.

Myth 9: Raw Feeding Is Only for Certain Breeds

Breed alone does not decide suitability. Age, health, nutritional needs and household infection risks matter, alongside practical storage and handling. Seek individual advice before changing a prescribed diet.

Myth 10: You Cannot Feed Raw to Puppies

If choosing raw for a puppy, use a complete food explicitly suitable for growth and follow its feeding guidance. Extra bone or calcium can upset growth nutrition. Our puppy guide explains the checks.

Still Have Questions?

If you are curious about raw feeding but not sure where to start, our raw feeding guide covers the basics in plain English. We are also always happy to chat through any questions. Browse our complete raw meals or get in touch to find out more.

Sources for these answers

See UKHSA’s infection-prevention advice, UK Pet Food’s puppy nutrition guidance and BVA’s diet guidance.