Thinking about switching your dog to a raw diet? You're not alone. More and more Aussie dog parents are trading in overly processed kibble for something closer to nature. Raw feeding for dogs is all about offering them whole, unprocessed foods, and when done right, it can be of great benefit for their health.
In this PetWell guide, we’re cutting through the confusion and internet noise to bring you clear, honest advice about raw feeding. We’ll talk benefits, bust some myths, and walk you through how to make the switch without upsetting sensitive tummies.
By taking small, thoughtful steps, we can pave the way to promoting your dog's health and happiness for years to come
🥩 What Is Raw Feeding, and Why Are More Pet Parents Choosing It?
Raw feeding means feeding your dog uncooked, fresh ingredients like high quality raw meat (we recommend human-grade), meaty bones, organs, and even some veggies, basically what dogs evolved to eat before kibble was even a thing.
Benefits of raw feeding include:
- A shinier coat and healthier skin
- Cleaner teeth and fresher breath
- Smaller, less stinky poos (win!)
- Better digestion and nutrient absorption
- Improved energy and vitality
Not every dog is the same, and raw feeding isn't a one-size-fits-all fix. But with the right balance and approach, it can help your dog feel and look their best.
PetWell Tip: Our freeze-dried raw single ingredients are an easy way to introduce raw into your dog's diet, minus the mess, plus the nutrition.
🔍 5 Common Raw Feeding Myths (Busted!)
We had the pleasure of meeting with Kate, a Vet Nurse and pet nutrition specialist and the owner of The Saltiest Dog, to shed light on and debunk five common myths surrounding raw feeding for dogs.
Kate debunks the 5 myths around raw feeding for dogs:
MYTH 1: Raw meals need to be perfectly balanced every time
Nope. Just like we don’t eat a perfectly balanced meal every time, your dog’s meals can vary too. What matters is nutritional balance over time, think in days, not bowls.
MYTH 2: Raw bones are dangerous
Raw Meaty Bones (RMBs) are amazing for your dog’s teeth and mental stimulation, just make sure they're raw (never cooked) and appropriately sized.
MYTH 3: Raw food makes dogs aggressive
This one’s all bark and no bite. Aggression in dogs is based on training, genetics, and environment, not whether they eat raw meat.
MYTH 4: Dogs will get salmonella from raw food
Dogs have super acidic stomachs and short digestive tracts, designed to handle bacteria that would send us running. Still, it’s important to keep things clean and store food safely.
MYTH 5: You can’t mix raw with kibble
You absolutely can. Just introduce slowly and monitor how your dog responds. Many people use raw as a topper or partial meal replacement.
Related Read: Pet Nutrition Guide: What to Feed Your Dog or Cat
🐶 How to Transition Your Dog to a Raw Diet (Without the Drama)
Here’s the deal, if you switch too fast, your dog’s gut might freak out. Not because raw food is “bad,” but because change takes time.
Try this 7-day transition:
- Days 1–2: 75% old food, 25% raw
- Days 3–4: 50/50 mix
- Days 5–6: 25% old food, 75% raw
- Day 7: Fully raw if your dog’s doing well
Keep an eye on their poo, energy, and appetite. Slow down if needed. No rush, just progress.
PetWell Tip: Our DIGEST supplement supports healthy digestion and gut balance, especially during transitions. It’s packed with probiotics, natural enzymes, and gentle ingredients to help your dog’s tummy adjust.
When introducing new foods to your dog, it's essential to do so gradually to prevent potential digestive issues
💡 Extra Tips for a Smoother Transition
Gentle Tip: If your dog has a sensitive tummy or lives with IBS, lightly cooking their food can help make it more digestible while still providing the benefits of real, fresh ingredients. For senior dogs, a gently cooked approach can support better absorption, it's all about meeting them where they're at and keeping nutrition purposeful.
- Start with a single protein (like chicken or kangaroo) before adding variety
- Feed at consistent times
- Use raw as a topper or mix-in if full raw feels like too much too soon
PetWell Products That Pair Perfectly with Raw Feeding:
DIGEST Supplement – Supports gut health, eases transitions, and improves absorption
MOBILITY Supplement – For raw-fed dogs who are active, large, aging, or stiff
Freeze-Dried Treats – High-protein, single-ingredient snacks that align with a raw approach
🧪 Still Unsure? Ask an Expert
Feeding raw can feel overwhelming, and that’s okay. Chat with a pet naturopath or qualified nutritionist to tailor a plan that works for your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle.
🐾 Final Woof
Raw feeding isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about feeding dogs real food that supports their health, inside and out. Start slow, trust your gut (and theirs), and lean on trusted, no-BS resources to help along the way.
Because your dog deserves real food. And you deserve real support.
Disclaimer: The entire contents of PetWell emails and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
Posted By Ayda Hornak - Trained in Canine Psychology and Natural Animal Nutrition Care
