Raw Dog Food: The Truth
- Everwell Pets
- Jun 25, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 24, 2025
Busting The Top 9 Misconceptions Of Raw Feeding
If you’ve ever felt the side-eye from your vet after mentioning raw food… you’re not alone. Feeding a species-appropriate diet (aka fresh, raw, real food) often triggers confusion, concern, or a flood of myths that just won’t quit. But don’t worry—we’re here to separate fact from fiction and bring a little clarity (and a lot of common sense) back to the bowl. Whether you’re raw-curious or already elbow-deep in duck necks, these top 9 myths are ready to be officially busted.
Is Raw Meet Dangerous?
Absolutely not. Dogs are biologically designed to eat raw meat. This type of diet mirrors what their wild ancestors consumed and what their physiology still expects. A well-planned species-appropriate diet isn’t just raw steak—it includes muscle meat, bones, organ meats, fatty acids, and whole food sources of key nutrients. When formulated correctly, it can fully meet your dog’s nutritional needs and support optimal health, from nose to tail[1][4][9].
Is Raw Dog Food Full of Bacteria and Unsafe For My Dog?
Yes, raw meat contains bacteria—but that doesn’t mean it’s unsafe for your dog. Canine digestive systems are built to handle bacteria far more efficiently than ours. Their stomach acid is highly acidic (think battery-level pH), which neutralizes potential pathogens[1][2].
Think of it this way: you already handle raw meat in your kitchen when preparing meals for your family. You wash your hands, clean surfaces, store it in the fridge or freezer, and cook it to temperature. Handling raw meat for your dog follows the same basic food safety rules. Use designated bowls, containers, or cutting boards, wash up afterward, and you’re good to go[3].
If we’re honest, the bacteria scare is often more about us than them. But when prepared with care, a species-appropriate diet is both nutritious and safe.
Will Feeding Raw Meat Give My Pet Worms?
It can—but so can sniffing (and possibly eating) poop, dead animals, or other gross treasures found outside. The truth is, dogs are far more likely to pick up parasites from their environment than from properly sourced raw meat[3][4]. Tapeworms, roundworms, and other parasites are often transmitted through scavenging, not dinner.
The risk of parasites from raw meat is dramatically reduced when you source meat from reputable suppliers and follow basic food safety guidelines. Freezing meat for two to three weeks can kill most common parasites, making it even safer for your pup.
Isn’t Feeding a Raw Food Diet Complicated?
It doesn’t have to be. Feeding your dog a species-appropriate diet can be as simple as thawing a pre-made patty or scooping freeze-dried raw into a bowl and adding warm water. These convenient options are great for beginners or those on the go[4][6].
For those who like full control, DIY meals using 80/10/10 blends (80% meat, 10% bone, 10% organ) are a fantastic foundation. Many online retailers offer great blends to get started. As you gain confidence, you can rotate proteins, add fish, tripe, or duck heads (yep!), and truly customize your dog’s bowl to match their unique needs.
You don’t need a PhD in canine nutrition to get started—just a little guidance and a willingness to learn[4].
Isn’t Feeding a Raw Food Diet Prohibitively Expensive?
One of my favorite truths to share with clients: feeding a species-appropriate diet is the best bang for your buck when it comes to your dog’s long-term health[4][6].
It may cost more than the cheapest bag of kibble, but when compared to boutique “fresh” or “vet-recommended” diets? It often matches or beats them in price—and far surpasses them in quality.
Add in the reduced vet visits, fewer medications, and improved vitality, it’s clear: this isn’t just a feeding style—it’s a wellness investment.
Want to save more? Order in bulk, build a freezer stash, and learn to spot deals on quality meats.
Should My Senior Dog Eat Raw Food?
"Older Dogs Shouldn’t Eat Raw—Too Much Protein." I hear this one all the time—usually tied to the myth that high-protein diets are “bad for kidneys.” But here’s the truth: older dogs often need more protein, not less[5].
A species-appropriate diet provides the high-quality, bioavailable nutrients senior dogs need to thrive. It supports muscle maintenance, joint health, healthy weight, and improved digestion—key issues for aging pups.
Should Puppies Eat Raw Food?
Puppies can start on a species-appropriate diet as soon as they’re ready for solid food—around 3 to 4 weeks old[7]. Tailored portions and proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratios are key, but the earlier they start, the better their long-term health and development.
(For example: Torch, one of my own dogs, was weaned onto a species-appropriate diet—and he’s been glowing ever since. Honestly, I don’t think Torch has ever had a piece of kibble in his life—and if he did, he probably spit it out in protest.)
Is It True Only Certain Dog Breeds Can Eat a Raw Food Diet?
While people love to imagine Huskies and German Shepherds chomping on raw meat like wolves, every breed can benefit from a species-appropriate diet [4][9]. From Chihuahuas to Great Danes, toy breeds to working dogs, the digestive system is still built for meat, bones, and organs.
Can A Raw Food Diet Can Make My Dog Aggressive?
No, feeding real food does not create aggression[2][8]. But feeding high-value items—like meaty bones—can lead to resource guarding, especially in dogs who weren’t taught to share as pups.
Aggression is a behavioral issue, not a food-based one. If your dog guards their food, it’s about their relationship with you and the environment, not the diet itself.
In fact, many of my clients report better behavior after switching diets. Why? Likely due to the removal of inflammatory fillers and the stabilizing effect of fat and protein on blood sugar and energy. In short: a species-appropriate diet can help your dog feel more balanced, calm, and centered.
In Conclusion:
Feeding your dog a species-appropriate diet isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. It’s about honoring biology, supporting long-term wellness, and making informed choices that reflect your values as a pet parent.
Is it a little different than what your vet recommends? Maybe. Is it wildly more aligned with what your dog actually needs? Absolutely.
When you feed your pet in a way that matches their evolutionary design, magic happens: better health, better behavior, and a deeper bond with the animal at your side.
Book a Virtual Pet Wellness consult with Dr. Andi today!
Looking for guidance in pet nutrition, or help navigating a scary diagnosis, or simply looking to support your pet's vitality? Dr. Andi is here to guide you every step of the way.
Don't miss out on natural pet health and wellness tips and stay ahead of seasonal news by subscribing to our free weekly newsletter, The Everwell Digest, where we deliver all the tasty tid-bits right to your bowl!
Citations:
Freeman, L. M., Chandler, M. L., Hamper, B. A., & Weeth, L. P. (2013). “Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat–based diets for dogs and cats.” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 243(11), 1549–1558.
Schlesinger, D. P., & Joffe, D. J. (2011). “Raw food diets in companion animals: A critical review.” The Canadian Veterinary Journal, 52(1), 50–54.
U.S. FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine. “Get the Facts! Raw Pet Food Diets Can Be Dangerous to You and Your Pet.” 2019.
Billinghurst, I. (1993). Give Your Dog a Bone: The Practical Commonsense Way to Feed Dogs for a Long Healthy Life. Dogwise Publishing.
Brown, W. Y. (2015). “Nutritional strategies for aging dogs.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 45(4), 729–749.
Dzanis, D. A. (2003). “Nutritional Myths and Truths.” Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practicing Veterinarian.
Delaney, S. J. (2006). “Feeding the growing puppy.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 36(6), 1283–1299.
Coger, K. R. (2015). “Raw Food Diets: What’s the Harm?” Veterinary Practice News.
National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. The National Academies Press.