11 big benefits of raw dog food
More owners are choosing a raw diet for their dogs – here are the biggest benefits you need to know
Quick takeaways about the benefits
- Raw dog food is proven to create firmer poo and is linked to better gut health in the long-term.
- 46% of dogs are overweight or obese – a raw diet can help to maintain a healthy weight.
- Studies and many pet owners report fewer allergy symptoms when feeding raw.
We know that your dog is part of the family. So, it’s no wonder you’re thinking more about their nutrition. swapping the ultra-processed supermarket dog foods for something more nutritious and beneficial.
Enter the raw food diet. More and more dog owners are ditching ultra-processed dog food for raw as it more closely reflects the natural, balanced diet your dog would have eaten in the wild.
And more robust research is emerging to prove its benefits. Incorporating raw food into your dog’s diet could lead to everything from a shiny coat to better gut health, and it can help them maintain a healthy weight.
Here, we share 11 of the biggest benefits of a raw dog food diet – and how you can make the switch.
1. Firm poos
Raw food is proven to create firmer poo in your dog – according to a large review published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice. Unlike ultra-processed foods like kibble, it helps your dog absorb more nutrients from natural ingredients.Our food is not only high in protein but rich in fibre – which helps feed and nurture the range of bacteria in your dog’s gut known as the microbiome. Foods like spinach, apples, offal and bone provide natural prebiotic fibres that lower inflammation and strengthen the immune system.
Fibre helps absorb water, making your dog’s poo bulkier and easier to pass. For you, this means less smelly, less frequent poos that are easier to pick up.
For your dog, firmer poos also help prevent blocked anal glands – encouraging the glands to express themselves as they pass. This is a very common issue in dogs and can lead to complications and extra trips to the vet.
2. Balanced energy
The high-quality proteins in raw provide sustainable energy. Chicken, beef and lamb are packed with B vitamins, including B12, that help convert food into energy and keep blood and nerve cells healthy. Turkey and salmon are high in calming tryptophan, promoting better sleep.
With nutrient-rich vegetables, fruits and superfoods, a raw diet can help your dog stay energised during the day and calm when it’s time to rest. Unlike raw, ultra-processed dry foods, which are higher in carbs, the body turns sugar into sugar. This causes insulin spikes and inconsistent energy levels.
3. Fresh breath
Feeding dogs raw leads to better dental hygiene and fresher breath. Scientific studies and dog owners have reported that raw can help eliminate ‘dog breath’ and keep their teeth cleaner.
This is because raw food has fewer carbohydrates and sugars compared to kibble, which can cause plaque and tartar build-up that’s linked to gum disease and tooth loss. High-quality protein helps reduce the nasty build-up, plus we add super herbs like mint to freshen your dog’s breath.
4. Shiny coat and healthy skin
Nature’s nutrients, like omega-3 and 6, can keep your dog’s coat shiny. The essential fatty acids and key amino acids in high-quality meat and fish will help your dog maintain healthy skin and fur without excess shedding.
Raw food might also minimise the chance of your dog developing common skin conditions and allergies. Research suggests this is because raw food teaches their immune system to form a healthy gut microbiome, which helps them fend off environmental allergies.
5. Better gut health
Raw food diets are great for promoting your dog’s digestive wellbeing. They can be easier to digest, helping your dog absorb all the nutrients they need.
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that puppies and adolescent dogs fed raw food were less likely to have gut health problems later in life. Another similar study found that puppies fed kibble were 61-85% more likely to develop inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as adults – compared to puppies fed raw.
Experts think this might be because raw feeding teaches a dog’s young immune system to form a healthy microbiome. This can help to protect against environmental allergens and generally strengthens the immune system.
6. Reduced allergies
Talking of the immune system, raw food might also minimise the chance of your dog developing a skin condition called canine atopic dermatitis – often called ‘environmental allergies’.
It’s caused by an allergic reaction to anything from dust mites to pollen, which causes itching, ear infections, flaky skin, hair loss, and excessive chewing of their paws.
Puppies fed kibble are 182% more likely to have environmental allergies as adults than puppies fed raw food – according to a survey by the University of Helsinki.
7. Healthy weight management
High protein, low carb recipes help your dog keep a healthy weight and muscle mass. Vets estimate 46% of dogs are overweight or obese – according to a recent 2023 survey from PDSA. Ultra-processed diets are likely to blame.
The refined carbohydrates in kibble can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt insulin metabolism, which increases fat storage.
Instead, a minimally processed raw diet helps dogs maintain a healthy weight. The perfect balance of lean protein, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals helps the body function properly – storing less body fat and maintaining lean muscle.
8. Healthy teeth
Studies and dog owners have reported that feeding raw leads to better dental hygiene and fresher breath in dogs. This is potentially because raw food contains fewer carbohydrates and sugars than kibble, which can cause plaque build-up and bad breath.
When your dog chews on raw bones, this can also help to remove tartar and plaque, reducing the likelihood of things like gum disease.
9. Supported immune system
A well-supported immune system is your dog's first line of defence against illnesses. Raw meat provides the amino acids needed to support a healthy gut, which we now know is linked to healthy immunity.
Plus, the vegetables and fruits found in raw are packed with immune-supporting vitamins and antioxidants to prepare them for all of life’s adventures.
10. Healthy joints
The raw diet contains meat, raw bone and connective tissues, too. All of these are good sources of calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, which help to keep their joints strong and healthy as they get older.
And, some customers have found that their dog moves more freely once they’ve changed to a raw diet.
11. Longer, healthier life!
According to a large veterinary review, raw diets are higher in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids (beneficial compounds found in fruit and veg).
Antioxidants help to prevent or delay cellular damage, which can help dogs (and us!) live healthier for longer. When food is highly processed or heated, it can damage nutrients like antioxidants.
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.
What do vets think?
“Some of the potential benefits of feeding a raw diet include better breath and oral hygiene,” says veterinary nurse and educator for Nature’s Menu, Melanie Sainsbury.
“With a natural diet, you’re not feeding the bacteria lurking in the mouth with added sugars which build up in the saliva and cause tooth decay.”
“Other benefits can include a shiny coat, healthy skin and more manageable poos. We’re not afraid to talk about poo at NaturesMenu!
“Put a natural diet into your dog and see the benefits shine through on the outside.”
Find out how to switch your dog and try our personalised nutrition meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.
This is because raw food has fewer carbohydrates and sugars compared to kibble, which can cause plaque and tartar build-up that’s linked to gum disease and tooth loss. High-quality protein helps reduce the nasty build-up, plus we add super herbs like mint to freshen your dog’s breath.
4. Shiny coat and healthy skin
Nature’s nutrients, like omega-3 and 6, can keep your dog’s coat shiny. The essential fatty acids and key amino acids in high-quality meat and fish will help your dog maintain healthy skin and fur without excess shedding.
Raw food might also minimise the chance of your dog developing common skin conditions and allergies. Research suggests this is because raw food teaches their immune system to form a healthy gut microbiome, which helps them fend off environmental allergies.
5. Better gut health
Raw food diets are great for promoting your dog’s digestive wellbeing. They can be easier to digest, helping your dog absorb all the nutrients they need.
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that puppies and adolescent dogs fed raw food were less likely to have gut health problems later in life. Another similar study found that puppies fed kibble were 61-85% more likely to develop inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as adults – compared to puppies fed raw.
Experts think this might be because raw feeding teaches a dog’s young immune system to form a healthy microbiome. This can help to protect against environmental allergens and generally strengthens the immune system.
6. Reduced allergies
Talking of the immune system, raw food might also minimise the chance of your dog developing a skin condition called canine atopic dermatitis – often called ‘environmental allergies’.
It’s caused by an allergic reaction to anything from dust mites to pollen, which causes itching, ear infections, flaky skin, hair loss, and excessive chewing of their paws.
Puppies fed kibble are 182% more likely to have environmental allergies as adults than puppies fed raw food – according to a survey by the University of Helsinki.
7. Healthy weight management
High protein, low carb recipes help your dog keep a healthy weight and muscle mass. Vets estimate 46% of dogs are overweight or obese – according to a recent 2023 survey from PDSA. Ultra-processed diets are likely to blame.
The refined carbohydrates in kibble can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt insulin metabolism, which increases fat storage.
Instead, a minimally processed raw diet helps dogs maintain a healthy weight. The perfect balance of lean protein, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals helps the body function properly – storing less body fat and maintaining lean muscle.
8. Healthy teeth
Studies and dog owners have reported that feeding raw leads to better dental hygiene and fresher breath in dogs. This is potentially because raw food contains fewer carbohydrates and sugars than kibble, which can cause plaque build-up and bad breath.
When your dog chews on raw bones, this can also help to remove tartar and plaque, reducing the likelihood of things like gum disease.
9. Supported immune system
A well-supported immune system is your dog's first line of defence against illnesses. Raw meat provides the amino acids needed to support a healthy gut, which we now know is linked to healthy immunity.
Plus, the vegetables and fruits found in raw are packed with immune-supporting vitamins and antioxidants to prepare them for all of life’s adventures.
10. Healthy joints
The raw diet contains meat, raw bone and connective tissues, too. All of these are good sources of calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, which help to keep their joints strong and healthy as they get older.
And, some customers have found that their dog moves more freely once they’ve changed to a raw diet.
11. Longer, healthier life!
According to a large veterinary review, raw diets are higher in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids (beneficial compounds found in fruit and veg).
Antioxidants help to prevent or delay cellular damage, which can help dogs (and us!) live healthier for longer. When food is highly processed or heated, it can damage nutrients like antioxidants.
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.
What do vets think?
“Some of the potential benefits of feeding a raw diet include better breath and oral hygiene,” says veterinary nurse and educator for Nature’s Menu, Melanie Sainsbury.
“With a natural diet, you’re not feeding the bacteria lurking in the mouth with added sugars which build up in the saliva and cause tooth decay.”
“Other benefits can include a shiny coat, healthy skin and more manageable poos. We’re not afraid to talk about poo at NaturesMenu!
“Put a natural diet into your dog and see the benefits shine through on the outside.”
Find out how to switch your dog and try our personalised nutrition meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that puppies and adolescent dogs fed raw food were less likely to have gut health problems later in life. Another similar study found that puppies fed kibble were 61-85% more likely to develop inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as adults – compared to puppies fed raw.
Experts think this might be because raw feeding teaches a dog’s young immune system to form a healthy microbiome. This can help to protect against environmental allergens and generally strengthens the immune system.
6. Reduced allergies
Talking of the immune system, raw food might also minimise the chance of your dog developing a skin condition called canine atopic dermatitis – often called ‘environmental allergies’.
It’s caused by an allergic reaction to anything from dust mites to pollen, which causes itching, ear infections, flaky skin, hair loss, and excessive chewing of their paws.
Puppies fed kibble are 182% more likely to have environmental allergies as adults than puppies fed raw food – according to a survey by the University of Helsinki.
7. Healthy weight management
High protein, low carb recipes help your dog keep a healthy weight and muscle mass. Vets estimate 46% of dogs are overweight or obese – according to a recent 2023 survey from PDSA. Ultra-processed diets are likely to blame.
The refined carbohydrates in kibble can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt insulin metabolism, which increases fat storage.
Instead, a minimally processed raw diet helps dogs maintain a healthy weight. The perfect balance of lean protein, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals helps the body function properly – storing less body fat and maintaining lean muscle.
8. Healthy teeth
Studies and dog owners have reported that feeding raw leads to better dental hygiene and fresher breath in dogs. This is potentially because raw food contains fewer carbohydrates and sugars than kibble, which can cause plaque build-up and bad breath.
When your dog chews on raw bones, this can also help to remove tartar and plaque, reducing the likelihood of things like gum disease.
9. Supported immune system
A well-supported immune system is your dog's first line of defence against illnesses. Raw meat provides the amino acids needed to support a healthy gut, which we now know is linked to healthy immunity.
Plus, the vegetables and fruits found in raw are packed with immune-supporting vitamins and antioxidants to prepare them for all of life’s adventures.
10. Healthy joints
The raw diet contains meat, raw bone and connective tissues, too. All of these are good sources of calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, which help to keep their joints strong and healthy as they get older.
And, some customers have found that their dog moves more freely once they’ve changed to a raw diet.
11. Longer, healthier life!
According to a large veterinary review, raw diets are higher in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids (beneficial compounds found in fruit and veg).
Antioxidants help to prevent or delay cellular damage, which can help dogs (and us!) live healthier for longer. When food is highly processed or heated, it can damage nutrients like antioxidants.
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.
What do vets think?
“Some of the potential benefits of feeding a raw diet include better breath and oral hygiene,” says veterinary nurse and educator for Nature’s Menu, Melanie Sainsbury.
“With a natural diet, you’re not feeding the bacteria lurking in the mouth with added sugars which build up in the saliva and cause tooth decay.”
“Other benefits can include a shiny coat, healthy skin and more manageable poos. We’re not afraid to talk about poo at NaturesMenu!
“Put a natural diet into your dog and see the benefits shine through on the outside.”
Find out how to switch your dog and try our personalised nutrition meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.
The refined carbohydrates in kibble can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt insulin metabolism, which increases fat storage.
Instead, a minimally processed raw diet helps dogs maintain a healthy weight. The perfect balance of lean protein, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals helps the body function properly – storing less body fat and maintaining lean muscle.
8. Healthy teeth
Studies and dog owners have reported that feeding raw leads to better dental hygiene and fresher breath in dogs. This is potentially because raw food contains fewer carbohydrates and sugars than kibble, which can cause plaque build-up and bad breath.
When your dog chews on raw bones, this can also help to remove tartar and plaque, reducing the likelihood of things like gum disease.
9. Supported immune system
A well-supported immune system is your dog's first line of defence against illnesses. Raw meat provides the amino acids needed to support a healthy gut, which we now know is linked to healthy immunity.
Plus, the vegetables and fruits found in raw are packed with immune-supporting vitamins and antioxidants to prepare them for all of life’s adventures.
10. Healthy joints
The raw diet contains meat, raw bone and connective tissues, too. All of these are good sources of calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, which help to keep their joints strong and healthy as they get older.
And, some customers have found that their dog moves more freely once they’ve changed to a raw diet.
11. Longer, healthier life!
According to a large veterinary review, raw diets are higher in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids (beneficial compounds found in fruit and veg).
Antioxidants help to prevent or delay cellular damage, which can help dogs (and us!) live healthier for longer. When food is highly processed or heated, it can damage nutrients like antioxidants.
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.
What do vets think?
“Some of the potential benefits of feeding a raw diet include better breath and oral hygiene,” says veterinary nurse and educator for Nature’s Menu, Melanie Sainsbury.
“With a natural diet, you’re not feeding the bacteria lurking in the mouth with added sugars which build up in the saliva and cause tooth decay.”
“Other benefits can include a shiny coat, healthy skin and more manageable poos. We’re not afraid to talk about poo at NaturesMenu!
“Put a natural diet into your dog and see the benefits shine through on the outside.”
Find out how to switch your dog and try our personalised nutrition meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.
Plus, the vegetables and fruits found in raw are packed with immune-supporting vitamins and antioxidants to prepare them for all of life’s adventures.
10. Healthy joints
The raw diet contains meat, raw bone and connective tissues, too. All of these are good sources of calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, which help to keep their joints strong and healthy as they get older.
And, some customers have found that their dog moves more freely once they’ve changed to a raw diet.
11. Longer, healthier life!
According to a large veterinary review, raw diets are higher in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and flavonoids (beneficial compounds found in fruit and veg).
Antioxidants help to prevent or delay cellular damage, which can help dogs (and us!) live healthier for longer. When food is highly processed or heated, it can damage nutrients like antioxidants.
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.
What do vets think?
“Some of the potential benefits of feeding a raw diet include better breath and oral hygiene,” says veterinary nurse and educator for Nature’s Menu, Melanie Sainsbury.
“With a natural diet, you’re not feeding the bacteria lurking in the mouth with added sugars which build up in the saliva and cause tooth decay.”
“Other benefits can include a shiny coat, healthy skin and more manageable poos. We’re not afraid to talk about poo at NaturesMenu!
“Put a natural diet into your dog and see the benefits shine through on the outside.”
Find out how to switch your dog and try our personalised nutrition meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.
Antioxidants help to prevent or delay cellular damage, which can help dogs (and us!) live healthier for longer. When food is highly processed or heated, it can damage nutrients like antioxidants.
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.