Dog Food Expert

Feeding your dog the right amount shouldn't be a guessing game. In this practical episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, we tackle the most common question in the raw feeding community: "How much raw food should I feed my dog?"Drawing on over 40 years of UK feeding experience, we explain why "guesstimating" portions often leads to overweight pets. We provide a precise framework for canine nutrition, moving away from the "eyeball method" to scientifically backed guidelines.

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In a major step forward for the pet food industry, UK Pet Food (formerly the PFMA) has officially launched its new Raw Pet Food Certification Scheme. In this episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, we break down what this "world-leading" standard means for the future of raw feeding.We discuss the partnership with KIWA, the independent certification experts behind the scheme, and explore the rigorous criteria manufacturers must now meet. From plant design and HACCP protocols to full supplier traceability, this is a deep dive into the new gold standard for safety.

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Digestive health is the number one reason pet owners are ditching traditional extruded kibble in favor of cold-pressed dog food. In this episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, we conduct the "water glass test" to explain exactly what happens inside your dog's stomach.While standard kibble swells up like a sponge—causing bloating and discomfort—cold-pressed pellets dissolve gently, releasing nutrients quickly without the heaviness. We discuss why this makes cold-pressed the ideal choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as well as puppies and seniors who need easier digestion.In this episode, we cover:

For many dog owners, the idea of handling hearts, livers, and kidneys can be a bit squeamish. However, in the world of raw dog food, these ingredients are non-negotiable. In this episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, we explore the nutritional science behind the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet and why "whole prey" feeding is the key to a thriving dog.We strip away the complexity of raw feeding to explain why a diet of pure muscle meat leads to malnutrition. Expert Daniel breaks down the specific benefits of each organ, explaining how brands like Naked Dog formulate their recipes to mimic the ancestral canine diet.In this episode, we cover:

Why Listen? If you want to understand the why behind the ingredients in your dog's bowl, this episode is a masterclass in canine nutrition. Learn how to ensure your dog gets a complete spectrum of vitamins and minerals naturally.

The UK raw feeding market is booming, but with so many choices, how do you know which brand is right for your dog? In this comprehensive comparison episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, we break down the top 6 raw dog food manufacturers in the UK.

We analyze each brand based on variety, packaging, ethics, and convenience. Whether you are looking for the eco-friendly credentials of Naturaw, the exotic proteins of ProDog Raw, or the user-friendly tub system from Naked Dog, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

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Did you know that a puppy's digestive system is still maturing long after they are born? Feeding the right food during this window can set them up for a lifetime of good health. In this educational episode, we look at the science inside the bowl of Naked Pup raw dog food.

We explain why simply mincing adult food smaller isn't enough. Puppies need specific support for their developing microbiome. Expert Daniel explains the role of Chicory Root—a natural prebiotic—and why it is essential for stool quality and gut health in young dogs.

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As our dogs age, their nutritional needs change. The bounce may fade, and stiffness can set in, but diet plays a massive role in how they age. In this episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, we dive deep into the specific needs of senior dogs and how raw dog food with superfoods can turn back the clock.

We discuss the science behind the Superfood Range—a complete raw diet designed to support aging joints. Daniel explains why standard nutrition isn't always enough for older pets and how adding specific, high-potency ingredients can reduce inflammation and pain naturally.

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As the popularity of natural feeding grows, one question pops up more than any other in pet owner communities: "Can I just feed my dog raw meat from the supermarket?"

It seems like a logical shortcut. After all, if the mince is good enough for your spaghetti bolognese, surely it’s good enough for your dog’s bowl? However, the reality is far more complex. While the ingredients may look similar, there is a critical difference between the meat you buy for yourself and certified raw dog food.

In this deep dive, we explore why treating the butcher's counter as a pet shop can pose serious safety risks and lead to long-term nutritional deficiencies for your four-legged friend.

When you buy a tray of beef or chicken from the supermarket, it is sold with one vital assumption: you are going to cook it.

Cooking is a kill step. High temperatures destroy harmful pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria that may be present on the meat. Because human food regulations assume this cooking process will happen, supermarket meat is not subjected to the same rigorous pathogen testing for raw consumption that certified raw pet food is.

If you feed that supermarket mince to your dog raw, you are bypassing the safety net. While dogs have robust digestive systems, they are not immune to foodborne illnesses, and neither are you. Handling contaminated meat increases the risk of spreading bacteria around your kitchen, putting your human family members—especially children and the immunocompromised—at risk.

This is where brands like Naked Dog stand apart. As a UK Pet Food Certified producer, their raw food undergoes strict microbiological testing specifically designed for raw consumption. Their production process is audited from start to finish to ensure that the food entering your home is safe to be eaten exactly as it is—raw.

Beyond safety, the biggest issue with DIY supermarket diets is nutritional balance. A common mistake well-meaning owners make is feeding their dogs plain muscle meat (like steak or mince) and assuming it constitutes a complete diet.

In the wild, a wolf doesn't just eat the muscle; it eats the whole prey. A balanced raw dog food diet must mimic this ratio to provide essential nutrients:

Feeding a diet of purely supermarket muscle meat can lead to severe deficiencies over time. A lack of calcium, for example, can cause brittle bones and growth issues in puppies. A lack of organ meat can lead to vitamin deficiencies that affect the immune system and coat condition.

Certified complete meals take the guesswork out of this. They are formulated to contain the precise ratio of meat, bone, and offal required for a dog to thrive, ensuring they get a "complete and balanced" diet in every bowl.

While we are discussing supermarket meats, it is vital to address processed pork products. Dogs should never eat bacon or sausages.

Unlike fresh pork (which can be safe if treated properly, like the Wild Boar in Naked Dog’s range), processed meats are:

While the intent behind feeding supermarket meat is good—wanting to give your dog fresh, natural food—the execution can be risky. To ensure your dog gets the benefits of a raw diet without the risks of pathogens or malnutrition, it is always safer to stick to a reputable, UK Pet Food Certified raw dog food brand.

It’s not just about convenience; it’s about peace of mind.

Raw dog food is widely recognized as one of the healthiest, most natural ways to feed your pet. However, for many owners, the nutritional benefits are overshadowed by a single, nagging question: "Is raw feeding safe for my home?"

Nobody wants raw meat leaking in their fridge or the stress of complex preparation routines. In this episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, hosts Alex and Daniel tackle the "faff factor" head-on. We explore how modern packaging solutions are revolutionising the raw feeding experience, transforming it from a messy chore into a clean, convenient routine.

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Why Listen? If you want to give your dog the diet nature intended but have been holding back due to safety or mess concerns, this episode proves that raw feeding can be just as straightforward as kibble—only fresher and healthier.

We all want our dogs to live long, happy lives, but carrying extra weight can significantly shorten their lifespan. If you have noticed your dog’s waistline disappearing, it might be time to consider a lifestyle change, starting with a raw dog food diet. In this episode of The Dog Food Expert Podcast, hosts Alex and Daniel move beyond simple "eat less, move more" advice to explore the biological factors behind canine weight gain.

We share a comprehensive 7-step guide to help your dog reach their ideal weight safely, without the risks of rapid weight loss like muscle wastage or nutritional deficiency. Whether you have a sluggish senior or a greedy Labrador, this plan is designed to work.

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Why Listen? If you are ready to help your dog get their "bounce" back, this episode provides the actionable, science-backed roadmap you need. Say goodbye to empty calories and hello to a healthier, happier hound.