Introduction

As dog owners, we all want to do right by our furry companions. We buy them comfy beds, shower them with love, and take them on lovely long walks. But one of the most important decisions we make is what we choose to feed them. The truth is, a dog’s diet has a profound impact on their health, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. So, what should dogs eat?

This guide walks you through the different diet options for dogs, with a focus on raw feeding, while also offering alternatives for dogs who may not thrive on a raw diet. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking to improve your current feeding routine, this blog will help you make confident and informed choices.

The Ancestral Diet: Why Raw Feeding Is Growing in Popularity

More and more dog owners are turning to raw diets, and it’s not just a trend — it’s rooted in the idea that dogs, as descendants of wolves, are biologically designed to consume fresh, raw food. A raw diet aims to replicate what dogs would eat in the wild: raw meat, bones, organs, and a small portion of plant matter.

Supporters of raw feeding argue that processed kibble and commercial wet food bear little resemblance to a dog’s natural diet. The result? Many dogs are living with poor digestion, dental issues, skin conditions, and behavioural imbalances — all of which may be influenced by diet.

Things to Consider Before Switching to Raw

While raw feeding has many benefits, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Before making the switch, there are a few important points to consider:

    1. Start Slow

If your dog has been on kibble for a long time, introducing raw food gradually is key. Begin with one protein (e.g. chicken) and slowly introduce other meats over time.

    2. Hygiene and Storage

Raw meat needs to be handled with care, just like in your own kitchen. Wash hands, clean surfaces thoroughly, and store raw food safely in the fridge or freezer.

    3. Balanced Meals Are Crucial

Feeding just chicken and rice or mince every day is not a balanced raw diet. Over time, this can lead to serious deficiencies. If you're unsure about balancing it yourself, pre-made raw meals from reputable brands can be a great option.

    4. Puppies and Senior Dogs

Raw feeding is safe for all life stages — including puppies — when done correctly. However, it’s especially important to ensure the right calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for growing bones and to adjust portions for older dogs who may have health considerations.

What If Raw Doesn’t Agree With My Dog?

Some dogs may initially struggle with raw food. Occasional digestive upset during the transition is normal, but if symptoms persist (e.g. vomiting, diarrhoea, refusal to eat), it might be worth exploring alternatives.

In these cases, a fresh cooked diet is the next best thing. This involves lightly cooking whole ingredients — meat, vegetables, and healthy fats — to retain nutrients while making it more digestible for sensitive tummies.

Key principles for a fresh diet:

• Avoid ultra-processed foods and synthetic additives.
• Cook meat to a safe internal temperature.
• Stick to gentle cooking methods like steaming or slow boiling.
• Supplement where necessary, particularly for calcium, omega-3, and essential vitamins.

A home-cooked or fresh diet still offers tremendous benefits over kibble — including better digestion, skin health, and fewer behavioural issues — without the concerns that some owners may have about raw.

The Problem with Kibble

Commercial dry food, or kibble, remains the most common choice for dog owners. It’s convenient, cheap, and widely available — but it comes with drawbacks:

• High heat processing destroys natural enzymes and nutrients.
• Filler ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy can irritate the gut.
• Added preservatives and flavourings may trigger allergies and behavioural issues.
• High carb content contributes to weight gain and insulin spikes.
• Long shelf life often means low nutritional value.

While there are certainly higher-quality kibble brands available, they are still fundamentally processed foods. If you must feed kibble, consider combining it with fresh food toppers or switching to a gently cooked option over time.

Foods to Avoid for Dogs

No matter what diet you choose, some foods should always be avoided. These include:

• Onions and garlic (in large quantities) – toxic to dogs
• Grapes and raisins – can cause kidney failure
• Chocolate and caffeine – highly toxic
• Cooked bones – can splinter and cause internal damage
• Artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol) – extremely dangerous
• Ultra-processed treats – often loaded with sugars, colours, and chemicals

Always check ingredients, especially when giving treats or leftovers from your own meals.

What Diet Is Best for Your Dog?

Every dog is different. Breed, age, size, lifestyle, sensitivities, and even personality can influence what diet works best.

Here’s a simple guide to choosing the right approach:

    1. Try Raw First

If your dog is healthy and you’re comfortable with raw feeding, it’s a fantastic place to start. Either prepare meals yourself (with research or guidance) or purchase complete raw meals from reputable suppliers.

    2. If Raw Doesn’t Work, Go Fresh

If raw food upsets your dog or feels unmanageable for you, cook their food instead. Prioritise fresh meat, vegetables, and gentle supplements.

    3. Avoid Highly Processed Kibble

Kibble may be convenient, but it shouldn’t be the long-term foundation of a dog’s diet. At the very least, consider improving it with fresh food toppers — such as sardines, cooked egg, or steamed greens.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your dog is one of the most important things you’ll ever do for their health and happiness. While no diet is perfect for every dog, the key principles are universal: prioritise real, whole foods, avoid ultra-processed ingredients, and observe how your dog responds.

Raw feeding, when done properly, is one of the most natural and biologically appropriate diets we can offer our dogs. But if it doesn’t suit your dog’s needs or lifestyle, a balanced fresh-cooked diet is an excellent alternative.

The goal is to raise calm, happy, confident dogs — and that starts from the inside out.

Bonus Tip: Keep a Feeding Journal

Monitor your dog’s digestion, coat condition, energy levels, and behaviour as you try different foods. Every dog is different, and your observations are the best tool you have for finding what works.

If you’re considering switching your dog to a raw or fresh diet and don’t know where to start, feel free to get in touch with us at Lola's House. We’re always happy to help point you in the right direction — because every dog deserves to feel their best.