Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is raw dog food?

Raw dog food is a diet made from fresh, uncooked ingredients such as meat, bone, offal and selected vegetables. It reflects what dogs are naturally designed to eat and avoids artificial preservatives, fillers and heavy processing.

2. Is raw feeding safe?

Yes, raw feeding is safe when food is produced, stored and handled correctly. Reputable manufacturers follow strict hygiene standards, DEFRA regulations and cold-chain controls to ensure safety.

If your dog has medical conditions, speak with your vet before switching diets.

3. How do I switch my dog to a raw diet?

Transition slowly over 7–10 days:

  • Days 1–3: 25% raw, 75% old food
  • Days 4–6: 50/50
  • Days 7–9: 75% raw, 25% old food
  • Day 10: Fully raw

This helps avoid stomach upset.

4. How much raw food should I feed?

  • Adult dogs: 2–3% of ideal bodyweight per day
  • Puppies: 4–10% depending on age and activity

Adjust based on your dog’s condition and energy levels.

5. What does 80/10/10 mean?

80/10/10 is a raw feeding ratio:

  • 80% meat
  • 10% bone
  • 10% offal

This provides biologically appropriate nutrition similar to a dog’s natural diet.

6. Do I need to add vegetables?

Some brands include vegetables and botanicals, such as Benyfit Natural. Others, like Southcliffe, are pure 80/10/10 with no vegetables.

Adding vegetables is optional. Many owners add small amounts of blended vegetables for fibre and antioxidants.

7. Can puppies eat raw food?

Yes, puppies can thrive on raw food when fed the correct ratios. They require higher percentages, 4–10% of bodyweight, and may benefit from finer minces.

8. Can I mix raw food with kibble?

Yes, many owners mix raw and kibble during transition or long-term. Introduce slowly and monitor digestion.

9. How do I store raw dog food?

  • Keep frozen until needed
  • Defrost in the fridge
  • Use within 48 hours once thawed
  • Never refreeze thawed raw food

Correct storage ensures safety and freshness.

10. What are the benefits of raw feeding?

Common benefits reported by owners include:

  • Shinier coat
  • Smaller, firmer stools
  • Better digestion
  • Reduced itching
  • Improved energy
  • Cleaner teeth

These benefits align with species-appropriate feeding principles.

11. Is raw feeding suitable for dogs with allergies?

Yes, raw feeding can help identify and avoid trigger proteins. Single-protein meals, such as lamb only or fish only, are ideal for elimination diets.

12. Do you offer local delivery?

Yes, Pets Raw offers local delivery across Leicester and surrounding areas. Delivery days and minimum order amounts are shown at checkout.

13. What brands do you stock?

We stock multiple trusted raw brands, including:

  • Southcliffe
  • Bulmer
  • Birmingham Raw Food
  • Albion

Your full list can be added here.

14. Do you offer trade or bulk pricing?

Yes, we offer bulk buying options and trade pricing for dog-care businesses such as day care, boarding, grooming and paddock-walk providers.

15. Can you help me choose the right food?

Absolutely. Message us with your dog’s age, weight, activity level and any sensitivities. We’ll recommend the best raw feeding plan.