Is Raw Feeding Right for Your Dog? A Veterinary Perspective For Belfast Dog Owners

Raw feeding for dogs is an increasingly popular trend in the UK. Many pet owners are turning to raw diets - commonly called BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) - in hopes of providing a more “natural” diet. While this approach is often well-intentioned, there are serious health risks and nutritional concerns that dog owners must understand before making the switch.

As a veterinary practice, we’re not here to shame or scold, but to offer honest, balanced advice based on current scientific evidence. This article aims to help you make an informed decision for both your dog’s health and your family’s safety.

Why Do People Choose Raw Feeding For Their Dog?

Many owners are drawn to raw feeding because it feels closer to what a dog’s wild ancestors might have eaten - raw meat, bones, offal, and vegetables. Some claim visible improvements in coat condition, energy levels, and digestion.

Raw feeding can look like this, but many raw diets today come pre-portioned, ground, or even in kibble-like forms - far from the stereotype of just tossing a slab of meat.

However, it’s important to remember that modern dogs are not wild animals. They’ve been domesticated over thousands of years and have evolved alongside us. Their digestive systems and nutritional needs have changed significantly. Feeding a raw diet based purely on what wolves eat doesn’t reflect the biology of the average Labrador or Cockapoo.

What Does “Natural” Really Mean?

“Natural” doesn’t always mean “better.” Parasites, infectious disease, nutrient deficiency and shortened lifespans were part of the natural life of wild dogs and wolves. Modern dogs benefit from veterinary medicine and balanced diets - both of which have contributed to increased lifespan and improved quality of life.

Veterinary Concerns About Raw Feeding

1. Risk to Children and Vulnerable Family Members

One of the most serious concerns around raw feeding is the risk to human health, particularly young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. Dogs fed a raw diet may appear healthy, but these bacteria can be present in their saliva and faeces. A simple lick to a child’s face or hands could be enough to transfer pathogens.

A 2021 study by the European Food Safety Authority highlighted that raw-fed dogs are more likely to carry antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which presents an additional public health risk.

🛑 Important: If you have crawling infants, toddlers, or immunocompromised family members in your home, we strongly advise against raw feeding. The risk of transmission through licking, handling, or environmental contamination (e.g., kitchen surfaces) is very real.

2. Nutritional Imbalances

Feeding a nutritionally complete raw diet is far more complicated than just throwing meat into a bowl. Many home-prepared raw diets lack essential nutrients such as calcium, iodine, and vitamin D, which can cause long-term health issues - especially in puppies and young, growing dogs.

Even some commercially available raw diets can fall short unless they’re formulated to meet FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation) guidelines (https://fediaf.org/self-regulation/nutrition.html). When choosing a raw food brand, always check for FEDIAF compliance, which is the current gold standard in Europe for pet food nutrition.

3. Bones: Benefit or Risk?

Feeding raw bones can help with dental health in some dogs, but they also come with serious risks:

• Choking

• Tooth fractures

• Intestinal blockages or perforations

Raw bones must be appropriately sized and always fed under supervision. Cooked bones are never safe - they can splinter and cause life-threatening injuries.

Hygiene Is Crucial (But Not Foolproof)

If you choose to raw feed, you must handle the food with the same precautions as raw meat in a restaurant kitchen:

• Store at correct temperatures

• Thoroughly clean surfaces and bowls after every meal

• Wash hands immediately after handling

Even with perfect hygiene, bacteria can spread through dog saliva, bedding, toys, and garden areas. It’s important to weigh this against the benefits you’re hoping to achieve.

What Does the Evidence Say?

When it comes to raw feeding versus commercial dry diets, the research is still evolving. Some studies and anecdotal reports suggest potential benefits of raw diets - such as improved coat condition, dental health, and stool quality. However, large-scale, peer-reviewed research comparing raw diets to kibble is limited. Most existing studies focus on nutrient composition, microbiological risks, and digestibility rather than long-term health outcomes.

On the flip side, commercial dry diets have decades of research and formulation behind them, with established nutrient profiles designed to meet AAFCO or FEDIAF guidelines. They're convenient and generally considered safe when produced by reputable manufacturers. However, they’re not without criticism - especially regarding ingredient quality and potential links to chronic inflammation or food sensitivities in some dogs.

The Individual Dog Matters

It's important to note that no single diet is ideal for every dog. Some dogs may thrive on a well-prepared raw diet, while others may do better on high-quality kibble or a mix of both. Factors like breed, age, activity level, existing health conditions, and even gut microbiome differences can all influence what works best.

If You Still Want to Raw Feed...

Ultimately, more independent, peer-reviewed research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of raw feeding and how it compares to traditional commercial diets. We’re here to work with you, not against you. If you’re committed to raw feeding, we recommend:

• Consulting a veterinary nutritionist

• Choosing a brand that complies with FEDIAF nutritional standards

• Regular health checks and faecal testing

• Avoiding raw feeding in homes with children or vulnerable individuals

Final Thoughts

Raw feeding is a passionate topic for many dog owners. While some dogs may appear to thrive on it, the health risks to both pets and people are real and well-documented. As vets, our role is to support safe and evidence-based choices, not judge.

We’re always happy to discuss your dog’s diet - raw or otherwise. If you’re considering switching to a raw food diet, please book a consultation so we can help you do it safely, if appropriate, or discuss healthier, lower-risk alternatives.

Need help with your dog’s diet?

📞 Call us or book an appointment online - we’re here to support your dog’s health every step of the way.