New to Raw Feeding?
Starting your dog on raw doesn’t need to be confusing. We’ll help you understand the basics, choose the right food and keep your dog’s meals simple, natural and consistent.
Simple start
Raw feeding doesn’t need to be confusing
Start simple. Choose complete meals, feed the right amount for your dog’s size, then adjust as you go. We’re here to help you pick the right food without overcomplicating it.
Start with completes
Complete raw meals are the easiest place to begin because they’re made for regular, balanced feeding.
Keep it simple
Try one protein at a time while your dog settles, then add more variety once you know what suits them.
Ask us anytime
Pop in-store or message us if you’re unsure. We’ll help you choose the right food for your dog.
The basics
What is raw feeding?
Raw feeding is about giving your dog a more natural diet made from quality meat, bone, offal and carefully selected ingredients. Instead of heavily processed food, raw meals are designed to be simple, balanced and closer to what dogs are built to eat.
Many owners switch because they want clearer ingredients, better mealtime excitement and food their dog genuinely enjoys. At Raw Dogs Dorset, we stock raw completes, minces, bulk boxes, puppy food and natural treats, with options for beginners and experienced raw feeders.
If you’re new to raw, complete meals are usually the easiest place to start. They keep things simple while your dog settles into a new routine.
Why owners make the switch
- Simple ingredients and clearer feeding choices
- Meals dogs actually look forward to
- Easy starter options for puppies and adult dogs
- Bulk boxes and regular delivery options for easy restocking
If your dog has allergies, health issues or specific dietary needs, speak to your vet or a qualified canine nutrition professional before making major diet changes.
Getting started
How to start raw feeding
You don’t need to overthink it. Start with simple choices, keep the first few meals consistent, then build variety once your dog has settled.
1
Choose a complete
Complete raw meals are the easiest starting point because they’re designed for regular balanced feeding.
2
Start with one protein
Keep it simple at first. Try one protein while your dog settles, then add more variety later.
3
Feed the right amount
Most adult dogs start around 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day, then you adjust as needed.
4
Watch and adjust
Keep an eye on weight, stools, appetite and energy. Small changes can make a big difference.
Every dog is different. Age, breed, activity level and condition all matter, so use feeding guides as a starting point rather than a strict rule.
Feeding guide
How much raw food should I feed?
A good starting point for many adult dogs is around 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day. This can then be adjusted depending on your dog’s age, activity level, build and appetite.
Puppies, working dogs and very active dogs often need more, while older or less active dogs may need less. The goal is to watch your dog’s condition and adjust gradually.
Adult dogs
Usually around 2–3% of ideal body weight per day.
Puppies
Usually need more, split across several meals while growing.
Active dogs
May need a higher amount to support energy and condition.
Less active dogs
May need slightly less to maintain a healthy weight.
Not sure where to start? Pop into one of our stores or contact us and we’ll help you choose the right food and feeding amount for your dog.
Choosing food
Complete, mince or treats?
The right choice depends on your dog and how confident you feel with raw feeding. Here’s the simple version.
Best for beginners
Complete raw food
Complete raw meals are usually the easiest place to start. They’re made for everyday feeding and help keep things simple while your dog settles into raw.
Shop Raw FoodFor confident feeders
Mince
Mince can be a good option for experienced raw feeders who like to rotate proteins or build their dog’s meals. If you’re unsure, start with completes first.
Shop MinceFor extras & rewards
Natural treats
Natural treats and chews are great alongside raw meals. They’re ideal for enrichment, rewards and giving your dog something proper to enjoy.
Shop TreatsReady to shop?
Start with the right range
Whether you’re switching to raw, feeding a puppy or stocking the freezer, these are the best places to start.
Starter raw food
Simple raw options for dogs making the switch, including beginner-friendly meals and everyday favourites.
Shop Raw Food →
Bulk box deals
Great value for regular raw feeders, multi-dog homes and anyone wanting to keep the freezer topped up.
Shop Bulk Deals →
Puppy food
A complete turkey mince meal for growing pups, ideal for owners wanting to start raw feeding properly.
Shop Puppy Food →
Natural treats
Chews, treats and extras for enrichment, rewards and giving your dog something proper to enjoy.
Shop Treats →
Raw feeding FAQs
Questions before you start?
Here are the common things new raw feeders usually ask before making the switch.
Can I switch my dog straight to raw?
Some owners switch straight away, while others prefer to transition gradually. The best approach depends on your dog, their stomach and their current diet. If your dog is sensitive, take it slower and keep the first few meals simple.
What raw food should I start with?
A complete raw meal is usually the easiest starting point. Choose one protein to begin with, then add variety once your dog is settled and you know what suits them.
How much raw food should I feed?
As a general guide, adult dogs are often fed around 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day. Puppies, working dogs and very active dogs may need more. Use this as a starting point and adjust based on condition, appetite and weight.
Do you deliver raw dog food nationwide?
Yes. Raw Dogs Dorset offers nationwide frozen delivery across mainland UK, as well as local delivery and store collection for customers nearby.
Can puppies eat raw food?
Yes, puppies can be raw fed, but they need the right balance for healthy growth. Choose suitable puppy options and ask us for advice if you’re unsure where to begin.
What if my dog has allergies or health issues?
If your dog has allergies, medical conditions or specific dietary needs, speak to your vet or a qualified canine nutrition professional before making major changes. We can still help you choose simple options once you know what your dog needs.
Still unsure what to choose?
Browse our raw meals and natural treats, or get in touch and we’ll help point you towards the right option for your dog.