Raw feeding guide
Introduction to Raw Feeding
Raw feeding is a change to diet that consists of uncooked meat, bone, and some organ meat. We add in vegetables which are packed full of minerals, vitamins, as well as pumpkin seeds and a small amount of organic Irish kelp (seaweed). What makes us different? We believe we are one of the only dog food producers that produce the meat themselves. Our wild recipes are direct from our estate and are designed to mimic the natural evolutionary diet of dogs. There are no added preservatives, no added chemicals, nothing is cooked as this destroys the nutrient quality. We do not add any synthetically manufactured or highly processed food, it is just pure, raw nourishment to fuel your dog’s primal vitality.
We humans are being adversely affected by eating highly processed food which is creating huge health problems for us. Many leading experts in the dog nutrition world believe that the same problems are now showing up in the canine world, leading to a huge increase in health related problems and significant rise in canine cancers. Many dog owners now realise that it is a false economy to feed your dog highly processed food such as kibble. Whilst it is cheaper (and potentially bad for your dog) you will end up paying a lot more money in vet bills to treat the consequences of their fragile health.
All our recipes have been specially designed for us by a leading dog nutritionist who is highly regarded in the field of dog nutrition and health.
Benefits of Raw Feeding
Better Digestions
Raw diets can alleviate digestive issues in dogs, particularly those with sensitive stomachs. They provide optimal nutrient absorption.
Allergies
Greatly reduced allergies and food sensitives.
Healthier Skin and Coat
High-quality proteins and essential fatty acids in raw food can lead to a shinier coat, and healthier itch free skin.
Dental Health
Chewing on raw bones helps clean teeth and gums, reducing tartar buildup.
Increased Energy
More energy and vibrant well-being.
Stools
Small stools with no smell.
Tips
Food Tips
We recommend rotating the recipes so that your dog(s) get a varied amount of proteins. Our aim is to add extra recipes in time, do let us know if you have some favourites.
In addition to feeding our dogs Wolfie raw dog food we like to give them twice a week raw eggs with the shells, from time to time tinned oily fish (such as sardines or mackerel in brine only) and raw fleshy bones – these are great to keep their teeth clean.
Storage Tips
Once you receive your delivery of Wolfie please place your rolls into your freezer.
We normally defrost at least 1-2 day(s) worth of dog food the day before. We keep this either in a Tupperware box, or a sealed plastic tub/box such as and old ice cream tub, in the cooler bottom section of the fridge.
Feeding Tips
If the roll has not been fully defrosted a quick tip is to add hot water into the dog bowl, and let this stand for 5-10 minutes before serving at room temperature. For easy measuring, each band on the roll is approx 100g.
Cutting the roll – we use either a sharp knife or a knife w/ a serrated edge. Cold/cool rolls are easier to cut, sometimes warmer rolls have a tendency to fizz out.
Wolfie Recommended Hygiene and Handling Tips
Good hygiene practice is essential when handling, preparing and storing raw dog food. Frankly this is common sense but government guidelines insist we inform you…. We recommend:
- This is used as petfood only
- Store frozen when you receive the delivery
- Defrost in a sealed container at the bottom of the fridge (separated from human food)
- Once defrosted, store at the bottom of the fridge, in a sealed container and use within 3 days
- Don’t discard the thaw juice as this can contain essential nutrients
- Wash with hot soapy water, all utensils, dishes, and surfaces after serving
- Remove and safely dispose of any uneaten raw food as soon as your pet has finished eating
Transitioning to Raw Dog Food
Transitioning your dog to a raw diet can be done in two primary ways.
1 – Rapid Switch
or
2 – Gradual Transition
The method you choose may depend on your dog’s age, health, and previous diet.
Rapid Switch
This method is suitable for healthy adult dogs and puppies. It involves fasting your dog for 8-12 hours and then introducing raw food the next morning.
Step 1
Fast your dog for one meal (8-12 hours).
Step 2
Start with one recipe for the first three to four days.
Step 3
Gradually introduce other proteins.
Tip
Allow the raw food to reach room temperature before serving to avoid stomach upset.
Gradual Transition
This method is recommended for dogs that have been on a commercial diet for a long time or those with sensitive stomachs.
Step 1
Begin by mixing 75% of your dog’s current food with 25% raw food for the first two days.
Step 2
Gradually decrease the amount of kibble/wet food/cooked food and increase the raw food over 7-10 days.
Step 3
Monitor your dog’s stool and adjust the transition speed if you notice loose stools.
Monitoring Your Dog's Health
As you transition to a raw diet, keep an eye on your dog’s health and behaviour. Look for:
Stool Quality
Healthy stools should be small and firm. If stools are loose, consider slowing down the transition.
Energy Levels
Monitor your dog’s energy and activity levels. An increase in energy is a positive sign.
Coat Condition
A shinier, healthier coat indicates good nutrition.
Water Drinking
Your dog might not drink as much water as they did when they were fed kibble, this is totally normal.
Our thoughts
We find that feeding Maggie and Iris is a rewarding experience, knowing that this food is enhancing their overall health and well-being. It does require some thought and forward planning, such as ordering the food in advance, defrosting the rolls, and cleaning thoroughly the preparation area. Knowing that that food is made with love and nurishment is wonderful. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have existing health concerns. We hope that you will enjoy the Wolfie journey to a healthier, happier dog!
Further information
Here are some great resources and information to learn more about raw feeding and dog health.
Feeding Dogs – Dr Conor Brady https://www.drconorbrady.com
Nick Thompson, Vet: https://holisticvetuk.substack.com/p/raw-food-the-basics
Other great raw dog food producers
Honey’s Real Dog Food https://honeysrealdogfood.com – thank you for all the help and advice to us over the years!
Rathlin Raw
Wilder
Your personalised meal plan
With Wolfie, it’s more than just feeding your dogs; it’s about enriching their lives. Our food ensures they remain joyful, vibrant, and full of life, just as nature intended. Trust Wolfie to keep your beloved companions thriving, healthy, and exploring the wilds of life with zest and vigor, naturally.
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