Can Puppies Eat Raw Food?

If you are wondering whether puppies can eat raw food, the short answer is that although they can, that does not necessarily mean that raw feeding is the right choice.  Raw feeding is not risk-free, and it is particularly important to be cautious with puppies because they have very specific nutritional needs while they are growing.

Is a Raw Diet Safe for Puppies? Benefits and Risks

You may consider raw feeding because you believe it is more natural, or hope it may improve digestion, stools, skin or coat condition. However, not only is there no scientific evidence to suggest raw diets are any more beneficial than a good quality complete puppy food, but raw diets also carry risks.

The main risks with raw diets for puppies are foodborne illness, physical injury and nutritional imbalance.

• Raw meat can carry bacteria, such as Salmonella and parasites that may be harmful to both pets and people.
• Raw bones can cause fractured teeth, choking, gut obstruction or perforation.
• Homemade raw diets can also be difficult to balance correctly, which is especially important in puppies because even small nutritional imbalances may affect healthy growth.

What raw foods can I give my puppy?

At Purina, we do not recommend feeding a raw diet to either puppies or adult dogs. If you want to offer fresh food alongside your puppy’s main diet you could try small pieces of carrot as a training treat. If you still choose to feed raw as your dog’s main source of nutrition, a commercially prepared food is a better option than a homemade raw diet.

What raw foods should I avoid giving to my puppy?

Most raw foods are best avoided altogether, especially in a growing puppy. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems and very specific nutritional needs, so the risks of feeding raw foods can be greater than in adult dogs.

Avoid feeding your puppy:

• Raw meat and poultry – these can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and may pose a risk to both your puppy and people in the household.
• Raw eggs – these can also carry bacteria and are best avoided.
• Raw bones – raw bones can damage teeth, cause choking, or even lead to gut blockages.
• Raw fish – these can carry parasites or harmful bacteria.
• Unpasteurised milk or dairy products – these can upset your puppy’s stomach and can also carry bacteria.

If you are ever unsure whether a food is safe for your puppy, it is best to check with your vet before offering it.

How to Introduce a Raw Food Diet to Your Puppy

Before introducing any new diet, it is important to think carefully about whether it is the right choice for your puppy. Any change in food should be made gradually, as sudden switches can upset your puppy’s digestion.

Start by mixing a small amount of the new food into their current food, then gradually increase the proportion over the course of around 7 to 10 days. This gives your puppy time to adjust to the new taste and texture while helping to reduce the risk of digestive upset.

Keep an eye on your puppy during the transition. If they develop vomiting, diarrhoea, a poor appetite or any other signs of illness, speak to your vet for advice.

How Much Raw Food Do I Feed My Puppy?

The right amount of food for your puppy will depend on their age, breed, size, activity levels and stage of growth. Whatever diet you choose, it is important to follow the feeding guidelines carefully and adjust only if needed based on your puppy’s body condition and your vet’s advice.

Weighing your puppy regularly and monitoring their growth can help you check that they are getting the right amount. If you are unsure whether your puppy is being overfed or underfed, speak to your vet for guidance.

Best Practices for Feeding Raw to Puppies

Whatever diet you choose for your puppy, the priority should always be safety, balance and suitability for growth. Puppies need a complete diet that provides the right balance of nutrients to support healthy development, so it is important to choose a food that is appropriate for their age and stage.

Good hygiene is also essential whenever handling your puppy’s food. Always store food correctly, keep bowls and feeding areas clean, and wash your hands thoroughly after preparing meals. If you are unsure whether a diet is suitable for your puppy, ask your vet for advice.

Sourcing and Storage of Raw Ingredients

If raw food is being offered, it should only come from reputable suppliers and be stored exactly as directed. Raw products should be kept chilled or frozen as appropriate, defrosted safely, and not left out for longer than necessary. Bowls, utensils, worktops and hands should all be cleaned thoroughly after contact with raw food to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Particular care should be taken if there are young children or immunocompromised individuals in the home.

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