If you've recently welcomed a puppy into your home, you may be wondering: Can I feed my puppy a raw diet in the UK? You're not alone. Many new pet parents are turning to natural feeding options and questioning traditional kibble diets.
This blog explores what the experts say, how to create a raw food plan for puppies UK, and what makes raw feeding both nutritious and safe when done right. With the growing popularity of the transition to raw food, UK pet owners are embracing. It’s important to start with the right guidance for your puppy’s health and development.
What Exactly Is a Raw Diet for Puppies?
A raw diet mimics what dogs would eat in the wild. It includes raw muscle meat, edible bones, organ meat, and sometimes small portions of fruits or vegetables.
The puppy BARF UK (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) model focuses on natural, unprocessed foods that support your puppy’s development. It's an increasingly popular alternative to dry kibble in the UK.
Are Puppies Even Ready for Raw? Let’s Talk Development
Puppies are surprisingly well-equipped to digest raw meat from a young age. Their stomachs are acidic, and their growing bodies benefit from high-quality protein and fat.
That said, safe feeding for young dogs requires structure and knowledge. Transitioning must be slow, and protein choices must be gentle. Using tools like a raw dog food feeding calculator, UK pet owners rely on can help ensure they're providing the right portions based on your puppy’s age, weight, and breed.
What UK Vets and Canine Nutritionists Say About Raw Diets for Puppies
While not all vets endorse raw feeding, many holistic vets and certified nutritionists support it, if done correctly. Experts emphasize:
The importance of balance
Sourcing quality ingredients
Monitoring puppy growth and health
Brands like TruePaws help eliminate guesswork by offering vet-reviewed meals tailored to your pup’s needs.
What’s the Best Age to Start a Puppy on a Raw Diet in the UK?
You can start feeding raw as early as 8 weeks, especially if your breeder has already weaned the pup onto raw.
If switching from kibble, wait a few days after bringing your puppy home, then begin a gradual transition to raw with a puppy BARF UK starter pack.
What Proteins Should You Start With?
Start simple. Choose:
Chicken
Turkey
Rabbit (if allergies exist)
Avoid fatty cuts, pork, or beef organs early on. These can be harder to digest for a young puppy.
How to Make Sure Your Puppy’s Raw Diet Is Balanced
A complete raw food plan for puppies UK should include:
A balance of 70% meat, 10% bone, 10% organ, 10% other
Calcium-rich bones for skeletal development
Enough fat to fuel energy and brain growth
Supplements are not usually necessary if feeding a balanced commercial raw meal like TruePaws offers.
What If My Puppy Has Tummy Issues on Raw?
It’s common for puppies to have softer stools or slight digestive adjustments in the first week.
Tips:
Don’t introduce too many new proteins at once
Use plain, bland options like minced chicken
Monitor for symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea that last more than two days
TruePaws’ single-protein puppy boxes are ideal for a gentle start.
Can I Mix Kibble and Raw for My Puppy?
Experts advise against mixing raw and kibble in the same meal due to different digestion speeds.
If you must combine diets:
Feed kibble and raw in separate meals
Wait 6-8 hours between them
Monitor stool and energy closely
Gradually move toward 100% raw for best results.
How Much Raw Food Should a Puppy Eat Daily?
Puppies generally need 5-10% of their body weight in raw food daily, split across 3–4 meals a day. This decreases to 2–3% as they age.
Monitor your puppy's growth, adjust as needed, and consult your vet or brand guide (like those provided by TruePaws).
Real-Life Stories: UK Pet Parents Raising Puppies on Raw
We started our Cockapoo on raw at 9 weeks, and she’s thriving. Fewer vet visits, solid poos, and loads of energy! – Amanda, Bath
TruePaws helped us switch our pup from kibble. The portioned meals make it easy and our Labrador loves it. – Sam, Nottingham
Where to Find the Best Raw Puppy Food in the UK
Look for:
Puppy-specific formulas
Pre-balanced meals
Human-grade, UK-sourced meats
TruePaws offers safe feeding for young dogs with vet-reviewed BARF-based puppy boxes and frozen meal subscriptions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Feeding Puppies Raw
Overfeeding too early
Not including enough edible bone
Feeding only muscle meat
Ignoring signs of food sensitivity
Use feeding guides and expert advice from trusted raw food brands to avoid missteps.
Final Takeaway: Is Raw the Right Choice for Your Puppy?
If you're committed to learning the basics and sourcing quality meals, raw feeding can give your puppy a powerful nutritional start.
From better digestion and immunity to long-term health, many UK pet parents say they’d never go back.
With a proper raw food plan for puppies UK and support from a trusted brand like TruePaws, raw feeding is not only safe—it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your dog’s future.
FAQs
Can I start raw before 8 weeks?
Only if supervised by the breeder and vet.
Does raw make puppies aggressive?
No, that’s a myth. Raw food doesn’t change behaviour.
Should I feed raw bones to a puppy?
Yes—soft, edible bones like chicken wings or necks are fine under supervision.
How do I thaw raw food safely?
In the fridge overnight. Never microwave.
