Raw feeding has exploded in popularity—and for good reason. It’s a natural, species-appropriate way to nourish our dogs.
But most discussions focus on the “big three”: protein, bone, and organ. While essential, the smaller details are what transform a diet from “keeps your dog alive” to one that truly fuels long-term health, resilience, and vitality.
In this guide, I’ll share 7 lesser-known insights from years of working with dogs. Think of these as small hinges that swing big doors—subtle shifts that can transform your dog’s health from the inside out.
1: The Micronutrient Gaps Most Raw Diets Miss
Even the most dedicated raw feeders can unknowingly leave nutritional “holes” in their dog’s diet. Trace nutrients like manganese, iodine, and vitamin E often get overlooked, yet they quietly support joint health, thyroid function, and immune resilience.
What surprises many people is that these don’t need to be perfectly balanced in every meal. Some nutrients are stored in the body and only need topping up a few times a week. For example, vitamin E is fat-soluble and stored in tissues, so giving a supplement or food source a couple of times a week can be enough.
Quick Weekly Add-Ins:
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Iodine: Pinch of kelp powder (low-arsenic source)
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Manganese: Green-lipped mussels or ground pumpkin seeds
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Vitamin E: Sunflower seeds or a high-quality supplement
2. Why Fat Quality Matters More Than Fat Quantity
We often think “high protein” when feeding raw—but the type of fat in your dog’s bowl is just as important as the amount.
Too many omega-6 fats (from poultry skin, grain-fed meats) can drive inflammation, while omega-3 fats (from oily fish, grass-fed meat) help reduce it.
Quick Fix:
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Balance the scales by adding sardines or anchovies to your dog’s meals just twice a week—a small change that can dramatically improve their omega profile.
3. How Rotational Feeding Prevents “Micronutrient Boredom”
Dogs thrive on variety—both for their palate and their nutrition. Feeding the same protein month after month may meet calorie needs, but it leaves gaps in trace nutrients.
Rotating between at least 4–6 proteins over the year provides a broader nutrient spectrum and keeps the gut microbiome diverse and resilient.
Pro Tip:
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Rotate not just proteins, but also organs and suppliers.
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Take a seasonal approach to better mimic nature and keep your dog’s diet fresh and balanced.
4. The Anti-Nutrient Side of Plants
Many raw feeders add vegetables for antioxidants and fiber—and that’s great—but some plants contain anti-nutrients like oxalates and phytates. These can bind calcium, zinc, and iron, making them harder for your dog to absorb.
Simple Solutions:
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Blanch greens like spinach and kale to reduce anti-nutrients
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Ferment vegetables for added probiotics
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Puree vegetables to improve digestibility
5. Why Bone Density Changes Nutrient Availability
Not all bones are created equal. Young poultry bones are soft, digestible, and have a favorable calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Older, weight-bearing beef bones are much denser—great for stripping meat and marrow, but they can risk tooth fractures if fed as nutrition.
Rule of Paw:
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Use softer, edible bones for nutrition
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Reserve denser beef bones for short, supervised recreational chewing
6. Gut Health as the Foundation of Immune Health
About 70% of the immune system lives in the gut. A diverse microbiome not only aids digestion but also strengthens defenses against allergies, skin issues, and chronic inflammation.
Boost Gut Health With:
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Fermented goat milk or kefir
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Green tripe
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Prebiotic fibers like pumpkin or chicory root
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Mushroom powders for immune support
7. The Silent Stressors That Increase Nutrient Needs
Heat waves, travel, boarding, surgery recovery, and even household changes can stress your dog’s body. Stress increases oxidative damage, raises cortisol, and depletes vitamins and minerals.
Support During Stress:
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Bone broth → hydration and electrolytes
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Extra omega-3s → calm inflammation
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Blueberries or berry blends → antioxidant support
Putting It All Together for a Healthier Dog
Raw feeding is more than just “meat, bone, organ.” It’s about crafting meals that nourish the whole dog—body, brain, and immune system.
The truth is balance doesn’t have to happen in every single meal. Some nutrients work on a weekly or monthly rhythm, and understanding these rhythms lets you fill hidden gaps.
These 7 insights are your next step toward smarter feeding—the kind that doesn’t just meet the basics, but helps your dog reach their fullest potential in health, resilience, and joy.