Raw Diet for Dogs: Benefits, Risks & How to Start Safely

The raw diet for dogs has become increasingly popular among pet parents seeking to provide their furry companions with what they consider a more natural, biologically appropriate way of eating. But is a raw dog food diet truly beneficial, or does it pose unnecessary risks? This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about raw feeding, from the science-backed benefits to potential dangers and practical steps for safely transitioning your dog to a raw diet.

What Is a Raw Diet for Dogs and Why Are Pet Parents Choosing It?

A raw diet for dogs, also known as a BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food), consists of uncooked ingredients that mirror what dogs' wild ancestors would have consumed. The genetic makeup of domesticated dogs supports this approach, as dogs from Boston Terriers to St. Bernards are essentially the same as their ancestors, gray wolves.

The raw diet movement gained momentum in the 1990s when Australian veterinarian Dr. Ian Billinghurst popularized the BARF diet concept. Today, millions of dog owners worldwide have made the switch, driven by reports of improved health outcomes and a desire to feed their pets more naturally.

A typical raw diet includes:

• Raw muscle meat (chicken, beef, lamb, fish)
• Raw meaty bones
• Organ meats (liver, kidney, heart)
• Raw eggs
• Fresh vegetables and fruits
• Sometimes dairy products, nuts, and supplements

Have you considered switching your dog to a raw diet? What's holding you back or motivating you to make the change? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Are There Real Benefits to Feeding Dogs Raw Food?

Proponents of raw feeding report numerous benefits, many of which have been observed consistently across different dog breeds and ages. They anecdotally report that feeding their dog raw food results in a shinier coat, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, higher energy levels and smaller stools.

Improved Coat and Skin Health

One of the most commonly reported benefits is a dramatic improvement in coat quality and skin condition. Dogs on raw diets often develop:

• Shinier, softer coats
• Reduced shedding
• Less skin irritation and hot spots
• Improved skin elasticity

The high-quality proteins and natural oils in raw meat provide essential fatty acids that support healthy skin and coat development. Unlike processed kibble, which can lose nutritional value during manufacturing, raw foods retain their full complement of nutrients.

Enhanced Dental Health

Raw meaty bones act as natural toothbrushes, helping to:

• Remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Strengthen jaw muscles
• Freshen breath naturally
• Reduce the need for professional dental cleanings

The mechanical action of chewing raw bones provides far more dental benefits than kibble, which can actually stick to teeth and contribute to dental problems.

Better Digestion and Smaller Stools

Raw diets are highly digestible, leading to:

• Smaller, firmer stools that are easier to clean up
• Reduced gas and bloating
• Improved nutrient absorption
• Less frequent bowel movements

Dogs evolved to digest raw meat efficiently, and their digestive systems are naturally equipped with the strong stomach acid needed to break down raw proteins and bones safely.

Increased Energy and Vitality

Many raw-fed dogs demonstrate:

• Higher energy levels throughout the day
• Improved muscle tone and definition
• Better endurance during exercise
• More mental alertness and engagement

This increased vitality may result from better nutrition absorption and the absence of processed ingredients that can cause inflammation or digestive stress.

Weight Management Benefits

Raw diets can help with weight control through:

• Higher protein content that promotes satiety
• Absence of fillers and empty carbohydrates
• Better metabolic function
• Easier portion control with whole foods

For dogs struggling with weight issues, transitioning to a properly balanced raw diet often results in natural weight normalization without restrictive calorie counting.

Allergy Relief and Food Sensitivity Management

Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities often experience significant improvement on raw diets because:

• You control every ingredient that goes into your dog's bowl
• Raw diets eliminate common allergens found in commercial foods
• Improved gut health supports better immune function
• Anti-inflammatory effects may reduce allergic reactions

If your dog has been dealing with food sensitivities, you might find our guide on Managing Dog Allergies Through Diet: What Works? particularly helpful.

What Are the Risks and Concerns with Raw Dog Food?

While raw diets offer potential benefits, they also come with significant risks that every pet parent must carefully consider. Due to the risks associated with raw meat-based diets (e.g., microbial contamination, nutritional imbalances) and growing concerns about food sustainability, most nutritional specialists and public health stakeholders question the practice of feeding raw meat.

Bacterial Contamination and Food Safety

The most serious concern with raw feeding is the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw meat can harbor dangerous pathogens including:

• Salmonella
• E. coli
• Listeria
• Campylobacter

These bacteria can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. A recent case of bird flu was linked to a cat's raw food diet, highlighting additional health risks. Proper food handling, storage, and preparation are absolutely critical when feeding raw.

Nutritional Imbalances

Creating a nutritionally complete raw diet requires extensive knowledge of canine nutrition. Common deficiencies in improperly formulated raw diets include:

• Calcium and phosphorus imbalances
• Vitamin deficiencies (particularly vitamins A, D, and E)
• Inadequate essential fatty acids
• Mineral deficiencies or excesses

There are documented risks associated with raw feeding, principally malnutrition from inexpert formulation and testing of diets. Working with a veterinary nutritionist is strongly recommended.

Choking and Dental Damage

Raw bones, while beneficial for dental health, can pose risks:

• Choking hazards, especially with small bones
• Broken teeth from overly hard bones
• Intestinal blockages from swallowed bone fragments
• Gastrointestinal perforation in rare cases

Always supervise your dog when feeding bones and choose appropriately sized options for your dog's breed and chewing style.

Cost and Time Considerations

Raw feeding requires significant investment in:

• Higher food costs compared to kibble
• Time for meal preparation and planning
• Proper storage equipment (freezers, refrigeration)
• Regular veterinary monitoring

Many pet parents underestimate the ongoing time commitment required for safe raw feeding.

Public Health Concerns

Raw diets can pose risks to human family members, particularly:

• Young children
• Elderly individuals
• Immunocompromised family members
• Pregnant women

Cross-contamination in the kitchen and exposure to bacteria through pet saliva and feces are real concerns that require careful management.

How Do You Safely Start a Raw Diet for Your Dog?

If you've decided to explore raw feeding despite the risks, following a systematic approach is crucial for your dog's safety and success. Here's a comprehensive guide to getting started safely.

Step 1: Consult Your Veterinarian

Before making any dietary changes, schedule a thorough examination with your veterinarian. Discuss:

• Your dog's current health status
• Any existing medical conditions
• Medications that might be affected by dietary changes
• Your reasons for considering raw feeding
• Alternative options that might meet your goals

Some dogs are not good candidates for raw diets, including those with compromised immune systems, certain medical conditions, or behavioral issues around food.

Step 2: Educate Yourself on Canine Nutrition

Raw feeding isn't as simple as throwing your dog a piece of meat. Invest time in learning about:

• Essential nutrients dogs require
• Proper ratios of muscle meat, organs, and bones
• Safe food handling practices
• Signs of nutritional deficiencies
• How to calculate proper portion sizes

Consider taking a course on canine nutrition or working with a certified pet nutritionist who has experience with raw diets.

Step 3: Start with Pre-Made Raw Foods

For beginners, commercially prepared raw diets offer several advantages:

• Formulated by pet nutritionists
• Safety tested for pathogens
• Convenient and consistent
• Nutritionally balanced

Look for products that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards and are produced by reputable manufacturers with strong safety records.

Step 4: Plan Your Transition Strategy

Dogs need time to adjust to raw foods. A typical transition plan includes:

Week 1-2: Replace 25% of kibble with raw food Week 3-4: Increase to 50% raw, 50% kibble
Week 5-6: Move to 75% raw, 25% kibble Week 7: Complete transition to 100% raw diet

Monitor your dog closely during this period for any signs of digestive upset, allergic reactions, or other health changes.

Step 5: Establish Safe Food Handling Practices

Food safety is paramount when handling raw meat. Essential practices include:

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw food
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for pet food
• Clean and disinfect all surfaces with bleach solution
• Store raw foods at proper temperatures (32-42°F)
• Follow proper thawing procedures
• Never leave raw food at room temperature for more than 2 hours

Step 6: Learn the BARF Diet Ratios

The recommended guidelines for a BARF diet consists of 70% muscle meat, 10% raw edible bone, 7% vegetables, 5% liver, 5% other secreting organ, 2% seeds or nuts, and 1% fruit.

A simpler approach for beginners is the 80/10/10 rule:

• 80% muscle meat
• 10% raw meaty bones
• 10% organ meat (5% liver, 5% other organs)

Some raw feeders also include small amounts of vegetables and fruits, though these aren't strictly necessary for dogs.

Step 7: Calculate Proper Portions

Healthy adult dogs should eat 2-3% of their body weight in raw food per day (not per meal). You may need to adjust portions slightly if your dog quickly gains or loses too much weight on the raw diet.

For example:

• 50-pound dog: 1-1.5 pounds of raw food daily
• 20-pound dog: 6.4-9.6 ounces daily
• 80-pound dog: 1.6-2.4 pounds daily

Puppies, pregnant dogs, and highly active dogs may need more, while senior or less active dogs may need less.

What Should You Include in a Balanced Raw Diet?

Creating a nutritionally complete raw diet requires understanding which ingredients to include and in what proportions. Here's a detailed breakdown of essential components.

Muscle Meat (70-80% of diet)

Muscle meat provides the foundation of protein and should come from various sources:

Poultry: Chicken, turkey, duck

• Affordable and widely available
• Good protein-to-fat ratio
• Easy to digest for most dogs

Red Meat: Beef, lamb, venison

• Higher in iron and B vitamins
• More expensive but nutrient-dense
• Some dogs do better on red meat

Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines

• Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
• Should be fed 1-2 times per week
• Avoid fish high in mercury

Variety is Key: Rotate protein sources to ensure nutritional completeness and prevent food sensitivities from developing.

Raw Meaty Bones (10-15% of diet)

Bones provide essential calcium and phosphorus while supporting dental health:

Appropriate Bones:

• Chicken necks and backs
• Turkey necks
• Beef ribs
• Lamb ribs and necks

Avoid These Bones:

• Cooked bones (become brittle and dangerous)
• Weight-bearing bones from large animals
• Bones small enough to swallow whole
• Fish bones

Always supervise bone consumption and remove any bone that becomes small enough to pose a choking hazard.

Organ Meat (10% of diet)

Organs are nutritional powerhouses that provide vitamins and minerals not found in muscle meat:

Liver (5% of total diet):

• Rich in vitamin A, iron, and B vitamins
• Feed 2-3 times per week in small amounts
• Too much can cause vitamin A toxicity

Other Organs (5% of total diet):

• Kidney: High in B vitamins and trace minerals
• Heart: Technically muscle meat but counts as organ
• Lung, spleen, pancreas: If available from suppliers

Vegetables and Fruits (Optional)

While not essential, some raw feeders include small amounts of produce:

Safe Vegetables:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
• Carrots
• Broccoli
• Green beans
• Sweet potatoes

Safe Fruits:

• Blueberries
• Apples (without seeds)
• Bananas
• Pears

Preparation: Vegetables should be lightly steamed or pureed to aid digestion, as dogs cannot break down plant cell walls as effectively as humans.

Important: Never feed foods from our Toxic Foods for Dogs: What You Should Never Feed Your Pet list, including onions, grapes, chocolate, and garlic.

Supplements and Additions

Depending on your dog's specific needs, you might consider:

Fish Oil: For omega-3 fatty acids Vitamin E: To balance fish oil supplementation Kelp: For trace minerals and iodine Probiotics: To support digestive health

For detailed information about essential nutrients, check our guide on Essential Vitamins & Supplements for Optimal Dog Health.

How Do You Monitor Your Dog's Health on a Raw Diet?

Regular monitoring is crucial to ensure your dog thrives on a raw diet. Here's what to watch for and when to seek veterinary attention.

Weekly Health Checks

Perform weekly assessments at home:

Weight and Body Condition:

• Weigh your dog weekly during the transition
• Monitor body condition score (ribs should be easily felt but not visible)
• Adjust portions if weight changes significantly

Coat and Skin:

• Look for improvements in coat shine and softness
• Monitor for any new skin issues or irritations
• Note changes in shedding patterns

Energy and Behavior:

• Track energy levels and exercise tolerance
• Monitor appetite and enthusiasm for meals
• Watch for any behavioral changes

Digestive Health:

• Record stool consistency, frequency, and size
• Note any changes in gas or bloating
• Monitor for signs of nausea or vomiting

Monthly Veterinary Monitoring

Schedule monthly check-ups during the first few months of raw feeding:

Physical Examination:

• Complete physical assessment
• Weight and body condition evaluation
• Dental health check

Laboratory Testing:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Chemistry panel to check organ function
• Fecal examination for parasites

Nutritional Assessment:

• Review diet composition and portions
• Discuss any observed changes
• Adjust diet as needed based on results

Signs That Require Immediate Veterinary Attention

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:

Digestive Issues:

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Blood in stool or vomit
• Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
• Excessive drooling or signs of nausea

Behavioral Changes:

• Lethargy or depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures or neurological symptoms
• Aggression or unusual behavior around food

Physical Symptoms:

• Rapid weight loss or gain
• Dehydration
• Pale gums or yellowing of eyes/gums
• Difficulty urinating or defecating

Long-term Health Monitoring

After the initial transition period, maintain regular veterinary care:

Quarterly Check-ups: For the first year Bi-annual Visits: After successful transition Annual Blood Work: To monitor organ function and nutritional status Dental Assessments: To evaluate the effectiveness of raw bones for dental health

What About Raw Diets for Puppies and Senior Dogs?

Different life stages have unique nutritional requirements that must be carefully considered when feeding raw diets.

Raw Feeding for Puppies

Puppies have specific nutritional needs for proper growth and development:

Higher Caloric Needs:

• Puppies need 2-3 times more calories per pound than adult dogs
• Feed 5-10% of body weight daily, divided into multiple meals
• Adjust portions as puppy grows rapidly

Critical Nutrients:

• Higher protein requirements (minimum 22% vs 18% for adults)
• Proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for bone development
• DHA for brain and eye development
• More frequent feeding schedule (3-4 times daily)

Special Considerations:

• Smaller, softer bones appropriate for puppy teeth
• Ground or minced meat may be necessary initially
• More frequent veterinary monitoring
• Consider working with a veterinary nutritionist

For comprehensive information about puppy nutrition, visit our Puppy Nutrition Guide: Feeding Your Growing Dog Right.

Raw Feeding for Senior Dogs

Older dogs have changing nutritional needs that affect raw diet planning:

Adjusted Portions:

• Senior dogs may need fewer calories due to decreased activity
• Monitor weight more closely to prevent obesity
• Adjust feeding amounts based on body condition

Digestive Considerations:

• May need softer bones or ground bone meal
• Smaller, more frequent meals can aid digestion
• Consider easier-to-digest proteins

Health Monitoring:

• More frequent veterinary check-ups
• Monitor kidney and liver function closely
• Watch for signs of arthritis or joint issues

Supplements:

• Joint support supplements may be beneficial
• Digestive enzymes can aid nutrient absorption
• Omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation reduction

Learn more about feeding older dogs in our Senior Dog Nutrition Needs: Keeping Your Old Friend Healthy guide.

Are There Alternatives to Full Raw Diets?

If you're interested in the benefits of raw feeding but concerned about the risks or commitment, several alternatives might meet your needs.

Freeze-Dried Raw Foods

Freeze-dried raw offers many benefits of raw feeding with improved safety:

Advantages:

• Retains most nutritional benefits of raw food
• Significantly reduced bacterial contamination risk
• Longer shelf life and easier storage
• Convenient for travel

Considerations:

• More expensive than traditional kibble
• Requires rehydration before feeding
• Still need to follow proper ratios
• May not provide same dental benefits as raw bones

High-Quality Kibble with Raw Additions

Many pet parents choose to enhance high-quality kibble with raw elements:

Safe Additions:

• Small amounts of raw meat (10-20% of diet)
• Raw eggs 2-3 times per week
• Small raw meaty bones as treats
• Fresh vegetables and fruits

Benefits:

• Easier to ensure nutritional balance
• Lower risk of contamination
• More convenient than full raw feeding
• Still provides some raw food benefits

For recommendations on high-quality kibble options, check our Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs 2025: Vet-Approved Picks guide.

Cooked Homemade Diets

Cooking eliminates bacterial risks while still providing whole food nutrition:

Advantages:

• Eliminates pathogen concerns
• You control all ingredients
• Can address specific dietary needs
• Easier to digest for some dogs

Requirements:

• Must be properly formulated for nutritional completeness
• Requires significant time and effort
• Need to supplement with vitamins and minerals
• Regular veterinary monitoring still recommended

Explore our Homemade Dog Food Recipes: Easy, Healthy & Balanced Meals for safe, nutritious homemade options.

Prey Model Raw (PMR)

Some raw feeders prefer the prey model approach:

Philosophy:

• Mimics eating whole prey animals
• No vegetables or fruits included
• Focus on muscle meat, organs, and bones
• Simpler than BARF diet approach

Typical Ratios:

• 80% muscle meat
• 10% raw meaty bones
• 5% liver
• 5% other organs

What Do Veterinarians Say About Raw Diets?

The veterinary community remains divided on raw feeding, with valid concerns on both sides of the debate.

Veterinary Concerns

Many veterinarians express concerns about raw diets based on:

Food Safety Issues:

• High risk of bacterial contamination
• Potential for zoonotic disease transmission
• Difficulty ensuring proper food handling by pet owners
• Public health implications

Nutritional Risks:

• Challenging to achieve proper nutritional balance
• Risk of deficiencies or excesses
• Lack of feeding trials for many commercial raw diets
• Potential for serious health consequences from imbalanced diets

Clinical Observations:

• Cases of illness linked to raw diets
• Increased parasite loads in some raw-fed dogs
• Dental fractures from inappropriate bones
• Gastrointestinal issues in sensitive dogs

Supportive Veterinary Perspectives

Some veterinarians support carefully managed raw diets when:

Proper Protocols Are Followed:

• Working with qualified pet nutritionists
• Regular health monitoring
• Appropriate food safety measures
• Using high-quality ingredients

Individual Dog Benefits:

• Improved health outcomes in specific cases
• Better management of food allergies
• Enhanced quality of life for some dogs
• Successful treatment of certain health conditions

Balanced Approach:

• Acknowledging both benefits and risks
• Supporting informed pet owner decisions
• Providing guidance for safe implementation
• Monitoring for positive and negative outcomes

Finding Veterinary Support

If you choose to feed raw, seek veterinarians who:

• Have experience with raw diets
• Are willing to work with you on monitoring
• Can provide nutritional guidance
• Support evidence-based approaches
• Will honestly discuss both benefits and risks

Cost Analysis: Is Raw Feeding Affordable?

Understanding the true cost of raw feeding helps you make an informed decision about whether it fits your budget.

Initial Setup Costs

Getting started with raw feeding requires some upfront investment:

Equipment:

• Additional freezer space: $200-800
• Food storage containers: $50-100
• Separate cutting boards and utensils: $30-50
• Food scale for accurate portions: $20-40
• Grinder for bones/vegetables (optional): $100-300

Total Initial Investment: $400-1,290

Ongoing Food Costs

Raw food costs vary significantly based on:

Quality and Source:

• Grocery store meat: $3-6 per pound
• Pet-specific raw food: $4-8 per pound
• Organic/grass-fed options: $6-12 per pound
• Bulk purchasing: 10-20% savings

Dog Size Examples (monthly costs):

• 20-pound dog: $60-120
• 50-pound dog: $150-300
• 80-pound dog: $240-480

Additional Expenses

Don't forget these ongoing costs:

Veterinary Monitoring:

• Initial blood work: $150-300
• Follow-up testing: $100-200 quarterly
• Additional check-ups: $50-100 each

Supplements:

• Basic supplements: $20-40 monthly
• Specialized nutrients: $30-60 monthly

Time Investment:

• Meal preparation: 1-2 hours weekly
• Shopping and sourcing: 2-4 hours monthly
• Research and planning: Varies

Cost Comparison

Compared to commercial dog food:

Premium Kibble: $40-80 monthly for 50-pound dog Raw Diet: $150-300 monthly for 50-pound dog Veterinary Raw: $200-400 monthly for 50-pound dog

While raw feeding typically costs 2-4 times more than high-quality kibble, many pet parents find the potential health benefits justify the expense.

Making the Decision: Is Raw Right for Your Dog?

Deciding whether to feed your dog a raw diet requires careful consideration of multiple factors specific to your situation.

Ideal Candidates for Raw Feeding

Raw diets may be worth considering for dogs who:

Health Factors:

• Have food allergies or sensitivities to commercial foods
• Suffer from chronic digestive issues
• Have skin and coat problems that haven't responded to other treatments
• Are overweight and need help with weight management
• Have dental issues that could benefit from raw bone chewing

Lifestyle Factors:

• Live with committed pet parents who can dedicate time to proper preparation
• Are in households with no immunocompromised individuals
• Have access to high-quality meat sources
• Have owners who can afford the higher cost

Dogs Who May Not Be Good Candidates

Consider avoiding raw diets for dogs who:

Health Concerns:

• Have compromised immune systems
• Are receiving chemotherapy or immunosuppressive medications
• Have a history of pancreatitis
• Are prone to food aggression or resource guarding
• Have gastrointestinal disorders that require special diets

Household Factors:

• Live with young children, elderly individuals, or immunocompromised family members
• Have owners who travel frequently
• Are in homes without adequate freezer space
• Have owners who cannot commit to proper food safety protocols

Questions to Ask Yourself

Before making the decision, honestly assess:

1. Time Commitment: Do you have 5-10 hours per week for meal planning, preparation, and sourcing?

2. Financial Resources: Can you afford 2-4 times your current food budget plus additional veterinary monitoring?

3. Knowledge and Education: Are you willing to invest significant time learning about canine nutrition and food safety?

4. Risk Tolerance: Can you accept the potential risks to both your dog and family members?

5. Veterinary Support: Do you have access to a veterinarian experienced with raw diets?

6. Household Safety: Can you implement proper food safety protocols consistently?

7. Long-term Commitment: Are you prepared to maintain this diet for your dog's lifetime?

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice for Your Dog's Health

The decision to feed your dog a raw diet is not one to take lightly. While many pet parents report significant benefits including improved coat quality, better dental health, increased energy, and enhanced digestion, the risks of bacterial contamination, nutritional imbalances, and safety concerns are real and serious.

Advocates of the raw food diet believe it helps improve your dog's health, with benefits like weight management, cleaner teeth, and a shinier coat. Opponents argue that without proper guidance, the raw food diet can be detrimental to your dog's well-being and have other drawbacks.

Success with raw feeding requires:

• Extensive education about canine nutrition
• Commitment to proper food safety protocols
• Regular veterinary monitoring
• Significant time and financial investment
• Careful attention to your dog's individual needs

If you're interested in providing your dog with a more natural diet but aren't ready to commit to full raw feeding, consider alternatives like freeze-dried raw foods, high-quality kibble with raw additions, or properly formulated cooked homemade diets.

Remember that there's no single "perfect" diet for all dogs. What matters most is finding a nutritionally complete, safe, and sustainable approach that keeps your individual dog healthy and thriving. Whether that's a carefully managed raw diet, high-quality commercial food, or something in between, the best choice is the one that works for your dog's specific needs and your family's circumstances.

For more information about dog nutrition and feeding options, explore our related guides on Understanding Dog Food Labels: A Pet Parent's Guide and Grain-Free Dog Food: Is It Really Better for Your Pup?.

What's your experience with dog nutrition? Have you tried raw feeding, or are you considering it for your dog? Share your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below – your insights could help other pet parents make the best decision for their furry family members!

---

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet, especially when considering a raw food diet.