At Big Dog Grooming, we believe that true wellness starts from within—and that includes what goes into your dog’s bowl. We know that healthy skin, a glossy coat, and a happy temperament all begin with good nutrition. That’s why we’ve teamed up with the team at Pet Mince Direct to dive into the benefits of raw feeding for dogs. With their wealth of knowledge in biologically appropriate nutrition and our commitment to grooming dogs with care and compassion, this collaboration shines a light on how raw feeding can make a noticeable difference to your dog’s coat, wellbeing, and overall vitality.
Whether you’re in Toowoomba or the Lockyer Valley, this blog is for dog owners who want to make informed choices about their pet’s health. From improved digestion to a healthier skin and coat, Adrian Eyre (Nutritionist and General Manager) at Pet Mince Direct, shares expert insights and busts some common myths about raw feeding.
Let’s explore with Adrian the science, the benefits, and the real-life transformations that a raw diet can deliver.
Adrian, what are the key benefits of feeding dogs a raw diet compared to commercial kibble?
Feeding dogs a raw diet offers numerous benefits, including improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, cleaner teeth, increased energy, and smaller, firmer stools. Unlike kibble, which often contains fillers, artificial additives, and high-carb content, raw diets focus on whole, natural ingredients closer to what dogs evolved to eat.
How does a raw diet support a dog’s natural instincts and biological needs?
Dogs are biologically designed to digest raw meat, bones, and organs. A raw diet mimics the ancestral feeding patterns of canines in the wild, providing essential nutrients in their most bioavailable form. This supports their chewing behavior, helps maintain lean muscle mass, and aligns with their evolutionary nutritional needs.
What ingredients should pet owners look for in high-quality raw dog food?
Look for whole ingredients like muscle meat, organ meat, raw meaty bones, fruits, vegetables and ingredients you can pronounce. Avoid raw foods with fillers, preservatives, or ingredients you don’t understand.
How can a raw diet improve a dog’s coat and skin health?
Raw diets are naturally rich in essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3s, which help reduce inflammation and nourish the skin from within. The result is less itching, flaking, and shedding, and a noticeably shinier, softer coat.
What role do specific nutrients, like omega-3s and vitamins, play in maintaining a healthy coat?
Omega-3 fatty acids (from sources like fish) support skin cell regeneration and reduce dryness. Vitamins A and E promote cell repair and antioxidant protection, while zinc helps maintain a healthy dermal layer and supports wound healing. Together, these nutrients are vital for optimal coat and skin condition.
Is a raw diet suitable for all dog breeds and life stages? Are there any exceptions?
A raw diet can be suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages when properly balanced. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with health conditions may require specific formulations or veterinary oversight.
What advice would you give to someone transitioning their dog from kibble to a raw diet?
Start gradually by introducing raw food alongside kibble over a few days. Monitor your dog’s digestion and stool. Transition slowly to prevent stomach upset. Keep the process positive and be patient—some dogs need time to adjust.
How can pet owners ensure they are feeding a nutritionally balanced raw diet?
Looking for adequacy statements or standards in which the food is balanced to.
Are there any common misconceptions about raw feeding that you’d like to address?
Yes! Common myths include the idea that raw food is inherently dangerous or that dogs need kibble for dental health. When handled properly, raw food is safe and much less processed than kibble. Also, chewing raw meaty bones is far more effective at cleaning teeth than dry food. Think of feeding kids lollies as a form of dental hygiene. This is essentially what kibble is to dogs.
Do you offer raw food blends that are tailored to dogs with specific dietary needs or sensitivities?
We offer a range of products from novel protein blends through to products designed specifically for puppies.
What storage and handling tips can you share to keep raw food fresh and safe?
Always keep raw food frozen until ready to use. Thaw in the fridge, not at room temperature, and use within 2–3 days once thawed. Wash hands, bowls, and surfaces thoroughly after handling. Raw meat, whether for your dog or for yourself should always be handled the same way.
How have you seen raw feeding positively impact dogs’ overall health and wellbeing?
Raw-fed dogs often show improvements in energy, coat quality, dental health, digestion, and allergy symptoms. Many pet parents report fewer vet visits, reduced inflammation, and increased longevity. The transformation can be dramatic—healthier stools, brighter eyes, and a more vibrant demeanor.
Thanks so much Adrian, for your valuable insight when it comes to the science and benefits of raw feeding. I know from my own experience of feeding my dogs raw food that the benefits can indeed be extraordinary.
It’s clear that when it comes to supporting your dog’s coat, skin, and overall health, diet plays a vital role. At Big Dog Grooming, we often see firsthand how raw-fed dogs enjoy fewer skin irritations, less shedding, and brighter, shinier coats. Thanks to our friends at Pet Mince Direct, we’ve learned just how much thought, care, and science goes into crafting a raw food diet that meets every dog’s unique needs.
Whether you’re just starting to explore raw feeding or you’re already a passionate advocate, we encourage you to reach out to the team at Pet Mince Direct for tailored advice and top-quality products. And of course, if you’re looking to complement that inner health with expert, Fear Free dog grooming for dogs over 15kg, we’d love to welcome you at Big Dog Grooming here in Postmans Ridge, proudly servicing the Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley regions.
