Raw dog food is fast becoming the choice of savvy pet owners across the UK. If you’ve ever stood in the pet food aisle, staring at a wall of colourful kibble bags and wondering, “Is this really the best I can do for my dog?” you’re not alone.
Across the UK, a quiet revolution is taking place. More and more dog owners are turning away from traditional kibble and embracing fresh, natural feeding. But what’s actually driving this shift? In this episode of The Raw Feeding Journal, host Charlotte sits down with industry expert Robin to answer one of the most frequently asked questions in the raw feeding world: Why do people switch from kibble to raw?
The answer, it turns out, is refreshingly simple. It comes down to eliminating artificial fillers, preservatives, high carbohydrates, and ultra-processed ingredients that can quietly contribute to chronic inflammation in dogs.
The Problem with Ultra-Processing
We often forget that kibble is one of the most processed foods a dog can eat. Through a high-heat manufacturing process called extrusion, natural nutrients are stripped away, only to be replaced with synthetic vitamins, artificial preservatives, and flavour enhancers. Robin compares it to the difference between a nourishing home-cooked meal and a shelf-stable ready meal and once you hear it framed that way, it’s hard to unsee.
The Hidden Carbohydrate Trap
Here’s something that surprises many owners: some kibbles contain up to 60% carbohydrates. Yet dogs have no biological requirement for carbs at all. In this episode, Robin explains how these excess starches can spike blood sugar, encourage weight gain, and feed harmful gut bacteria—all of which can fuel the chronic, low-grade inflammation linked to allergies, itchy skin, digestive troubles, and joint issues.
Inflammation: The Silent Culprit
Perhaps the most compelling reason owners make the switch is to tackle inflammation at its source. By removing ultra-processed ingredients and returning to a fresh, species-appropriate diet, many owners report dramatic improvements:
- Glossier coats
- Healthier skin
- Fresher breath
- Smaller stools
- Cleaner teeth
- More balanced energy levels
Real Food for Real Results
This episode isn’t about fear-mongering it’s about empowerment. Charlotte and Robin offer practical, reassuring advice for anyone considering the switch, including the importance of choosing DEFRA-registered suppliers and consulting a knowledgeable vet or canine nutritionist.
Whether you’re a curious kibble-feeder or already dipping your toes into raw, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to make an informed choice for your dog’s long-term health.
Youtube: youtube.com/@RawFeedingJournalUK
Facebook: facebook.com/RawFeedingJournal/
instagram: instagram.com/rawfeedingjournal/
linkedin: linkedin.com/company/raw-feeding-journal/
