Dog Nutrition —
How to Feed Raw.
Everything you need to know about switching your dog to a natural raw food diet. Portion sizes, timing, transitioning and why it works.
The Science Behind It
Why Switch Your Dog
to Raw Food?
The commercial dog food market became popular in the 1930s. For thousands of years before that, dogs lived quite happily on a raw diet — until humans invented grain-based processed food for their own convenience, not their dog's health.
A raw dog food diet is the most natural, nutritionally complete way to feed your dog. Their digestive systems, teeth, stomach acid and gut bacteria are all designed to process raw meat, bone and organ.
Raw food is often cheaper than premium commercial dog food, especially bought in bulk or on subscription.
Even the fussiest dogs devour raw food. If your dog leaves their dinner — that will become a thing of the past.
A dog's digestive system is designed to eat raw food. It's what their body is built for.
Raw-fed dogs typically have cleaner teeth, fresher breath, a shinier coat and healthier body weight.
Weigh every meal and adjust portions precisely based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
Dogs digest raw food far more efficiently — producing much less faecal output than with processed kibble.
"Dogs evolved eating raw meat, bone and organ for thousands of years. Their bodies haven't changed — only their food has."
— The Dog Outlet, Feed Um Raw, WiganPortion Sizes
How Much Raw Food
Should I Feed My Dog?
No two dogs are the same — activity levels, breed, age and health all play a role. Your dog should have a visible waist and you should be able to feel its ribs under its coat without pressing hard.
Free Tool
Raw Dog Food Portion
Calculator.
One of the most common questions we get at Feed Um Raw is "how much should I feed my dog?" — and the answer depends on your dog's weight, age and activity level. Use our free raw dog food portion calculator below to get an instant guide.
Raw feeding is all about getting the balance right. Adult dogs generally need between 3–5% of their body weight per day, split across two meals. Puppies need significantly more to support growth, and senior or less active dogs often need slightly less. Always adjust based on your dog's body condition — you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing, and they should have a visible waist.
Always monitor your dog's weight and adjust accordingly. Consult your vet if your dog has health conditions.
What Our Customers Say
Real dogs. Real results.
"Great products, great customer service and great value for money! They go above and beyond to help and have a nice reward programme as a bonus. Me and my Greyhound highly recommend Feed Um Raw!"
"Wouldn't go anywhere else for our raw food for our blue staffy Arthur. Took him in as a pup and they were so helpful with all our questions and needs — and still are. Great choice for food, treats and everything you need."
"First time ordering online — absolutely amazing, they go above and beyond. Realised at work I had one lot of food left, ordered online and it was delivered within two hours. Such great service, thank you!"
Feeding Schedule
When Should I Feed
My Dog?
For healthy dogs, a feeding schedule can be flexible — but routine is key. Most dog owners opt for 2–3 feeds per day.
As long as your dog stays within their recommended daily portion, spreading meals throughout the day is absolutely fine.
A good sized morning meal sets your dog up for the day. Many owners feed after their own breakfast to keep routine.
An evening meal completes the daily portion. Leave at least an hour after exercise before feeding — especially important for larger breeds.
Replace a meal with a raw meaty bone. Fantastic for dental health and natural enrichment.
Transitioning to Raw
How to Switch Your Dog
to a Raw Food Diet.
If you're changing your dog's food, do it gradually. A sudden switch can upset their digestion — even when the new food is far better for them.
Start with 80% of your dog's old food and 20% raw, then slowly reduce the old food and increase raw over 4–5 weeks until you reach 100% raw.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Questions.
We generally recommend against mixing raw food and kibble in the same meal. Raw food and kibble digest at different rates — kibble digests slowly while raw food moves through the gut quickly. Mixing the two can cause digestive upset. It's much better to transition fully to raw over 4–5 weeks using our gradual changeover method above.
Raw dog food should be kept frozen and defrosted in the fridge 24 hours before feeding. Once defrosted, it should be used within 2–3 days and never refrozen. We recommend a dedicated freezer drawer for your dog's food to keep it separate from your own. All our products are dispatched deep frozen in insulated packaging.
Yes — when handled correctly, raw dog food is perfectly safe. Dogs' digestive systems are designed to handle raw meat and have much higher stomach acid levels than humans. Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw food, use separate bowls and utensils, and store food correctly. If anyone in your household is immunocompromised, speak to your GP or vet for specific advice.
Most dog owners notice improvements within 2–4 weeks of switching to raw. The first things you'll typically notice are smaller, firmer stools and increased energy levels. Coat improvements usually follow within 4–8 weeks as the natural fatty acids take effect. Dental improvements can take a little longer but are very noticeable over time.
We recommend starting with a simple single protein — chicken or beef mince is a great starting point as most dogs tolerate it well. Once your dog is settled on raw (usually after 2–3 weeks), you can introduce variety with different proteins like lamb, tripe, turkey and fish. Our team at Feed Um Raw are always happy to advise on the best starting point for your dog — just give us a call on 01942 719228.
Yes! We offer same day and next day raw dog food delivery across Wigan and surrounding areas within 8 miles of our shop at WN4 9DW. Free delivery on orders over £25, just £9 otherwise. We also offer nationwide frozen delivery across the UK and a free click & collect service from our Wigan store.
Ready to make the switch?
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