Switching your dog to a raw diet is one of the best decisions you can make for their health — but like any new routine, there are pitfalls to avoid. Whether you're just starting out or have been raw feeding for a while, here are the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Mixing Raw Food and Kibble in the Same Meal
This is one of the most widespread mistakes among new raw feeders. Raw meat and kibble digest at very different speeds — kibble takes much longer to break down, which can cause the raw food to sit in the gut and ferment. The result? Gas, bloating, diarrhoea, or vomiting.
The fix: If you want to transition gradually, feed raw and kibble at separate meal times rather than mixing them in the same bowl. Ideally, transition fully to raw within 2–4 weeks.
2. Switching Proteins Too Quickly
Variety is great for a raw-fed dog — but introducing too many new proteins at once can overwhelm a digestive system that's still adjusting. Loose stools and stomach upsets are common when proteins are rotated too fast.
The fix: Start with a single protein (chicken is the most digestible and a great starting point) and feed it exclusively for 5–7 days. Once stools are firm and consistent, introduce a new protein gradually.
3. Overfeeding Organ Meat
Organs are nutritional powerhouses — packed with vitamins A, D, E, K, and essential minerals. But too much, too soon can act as a powerful laxative. Liver in particular is very rich and should make up no more than 5–10% of the overall diet.
The fix: Use pre-balanced mixes that already contain the correct organ ratio. At Paw Shack, our frozen raw dog food range is formulated with the right balance of meat, bone, and organs — no guesswork needed.
4. Feeding Cooked Bones
This is a safety-critical mistake. Cooked bones become brittle and can splinter into sharp shards that cause internal injuries, blockages, or choking. This applies to all cooked bones — chicken, beef, pork, and lamb.
The fix: Only ever feed raw bones. Raw bones are pliable and safe for dogs to chew and digest. Better still, use raw mince with bone already ground in — it delivers all the calcium benefits without the risk.
5. Overfeeding
It's easy to overestimate how much a dog needs, especially when they seem to enjoy their food so much. Overfeeding leads to weight gain, loose stools, and unnecessary strain on the digestive system.
The fix: Feed adult dogs 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day. A 20kg dog needs roughly 400–600g of raw food daily. Adjust based on activity level and body condition — you should be able to feel (but not see) your dog's ribs.
6. Buying Low-Quality Raw Food
Not all raw dog food is created equal. Cheap mixes can contain poor bone ratios, inconsistent meat quality, and fillers that undermine the whole point of raw feeding. Some may not be sourced from regulated facilities.
The fix: Always buy from a DEFRA-approved supplier. All Paw Shack products are sourced from British farms, DEFRA approved (No. 44/8618111ABP/PTF), and blast-frozen immediately after preparation to lock in nutrition and safety.
7. Ignoring Basic Hygiene
Raw meat carries bacteria that can be harmful to humans if handled carelessly. While dogs' digestive systems are well-equipped to handle raw meat safely, your kitchen surfaces and hands are not.
The fix: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw food. Thaw in the fridge (never on the counter), use within 24 hours of defrosting, and clean bowls and preparation surfaces after every meal.
Start Raw Feeding with Confidence
The good news is that most of these mistakes are easy to avoid — especially when you use high-quality, pre-balanced frozen mixes. Our range takes the guesswork out of raw feeding so you can focus on what matters: a happy, healthy dog.
Browse our frozen raw dog food range →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix raw food with kibble?
It's not recommended in the same meal due to different digestion speeds. If transitioning, feed them at separate meal times.
How do I know if I'm feeding the right amount?
Use the 2–3% of body weight guideline for adult dogs and monitor stool quality and body condition. Firm, small stools are a good sign.
Is raw feeding safe?
Yes, when sourced from a reputable, regulated supplier and handled with basic hygiene practices. All Paw Shack products are DEFRA approved and blast-frozen for safety.