Myth no. 5: Raw feeding is complicated and time consuming

When thinking about switching to raw food, you have probably thought or heard this before:

• "It’s so complicated!"

• "You need a degree in veterinary nutrition to get it right!"

• "Who has time to measure and balance everything perfectly?"

  
  

This is due to many prejudice and also because there is so much confusing and often even wrong information out there that one must feel overwhelmed!

But you can relax! Let us take a look at this.

Is raw feeding really complicated?

The short answer is: No.

Think about it: How did people even feed their dogs before kibble was invented? How do dogs in areas with no access to commercial pet food survive?

The idea that you need to be a scientist to prepare a balanced meal for your dog is simply not true.

Of course, there’s a learning curve like with anything new. But it’s not about complex formulas or spending hours calculating nutrients or preparing the meals. It’s about understanding the basics and finding your own ways to do it so it fits your needs as well.

And: You don’t have to figure it out alone! With the right guidance, feeding your dog a fresh, species-appropriate diet is easier than you think. You can get a professional plan and relevant information and start right away.

BARF basics

Raw feeding is not just feeding things raw. And it is definitely not just feeding raw meat. If you would do that, it would certainly not be healthy as there would be relevant nutrients missing. There are rules that need to be followed. In order to do so, you can – for example – follow the BARF concept. It is one of different available concepts that gives you clear guidelines how to put together a meal for your dog.

It is based on the idea of mimicking a prey animal like a rabbit. It’s not just muscle meat – there is bone, innards and even some plant matter from the prey’s stomach contents. All this is put together in certain ratios.

That’s it. No calculators. Just a few numbers, variety and good-quality, natural sources.

“But… doesn’t it take forever to prepare?”

Yes, raw feeding takes a little more time than opening a bag of kibble.

I often hear "If only I could make my dog live longer so I could spend more time with them". And you know what: Feeding raw food enhances the chances that your dog will live longer! So if you ask me: Sparing a few extra minutes to feed them (considerably) better food and support their health and longevity is the biggest love declaration you could possibly make.

And once you get into the routine, it’s as easy as prepping meals for yourself!

I personally only prepare a weekly smoothie (a mix of veggies, fruits, oils, seaweed) which is part of the daily meal. This takes me less than 10 minutes. I store the rest of the ingredients in my fridge and prepare my dog´s food once a day (I also feed him once a day).

Based on that, let’s compare:

• Kibble: Open bag. Pour food into a bowl. Serve. Total time: 1-2 minutes

• Raw food: Take out raw food from the fridge, put it together, maybe add an egg, serve. Total time: 5-7 minutes (smoothie preparation has already been partially accounted for)

  
  

Many raw feeders prepare the whole meals once every 1 or 2 weeks and keep the portions in a freezer. So they have a longer prepping time, but it is much less frequent. On a daily basis it is almost like feeding kibble: Thaw. Pour into the bowl. Serve.

Worried about doing it wrong?

It’s normal to feel a bit unsure at first. You love your dog, want the best for them and the last thing you want is to make a mistake, possibly harming their health.

But remember:

• Your dog doesn’t need every nutrient in every meal. Just like you don’t track vitamins in every bite you eat, your dog’s balance happens over time.

• Small steps are better than no steps. Even adding a few fresh ingredients to your dog’s bowl can make a difference.

• You don’t have to do it alone. I can create an individual meal plan for your dog and support you transitioning.

  
  

In my mind, the real question is:

What is your dog´s health and longevity worth to you?

We all want our dogs to live long and hopefully healthy lives. A study (click here to read) has shown that dogs fed a homemade diet can live up to 2,7 years longer than those on processed kibble. Almost three extra precious years of adventures and companionship with you dog!

So, is raw food really too much work? Or is it a small, worthwhile effort?

If you are ready to ditch the myth and start raw feeding, check out my food plan options that will all make it simple to get you started.

I wish for as many dogs as possible to enjoy the benefits of fresh food ❤️