Why I Switched My Dog to Raw Feeding: A Trainer's Journey to Better Behaviour and Health
The Game-Changing Shift
As a professional dog trainer, I spend a lot of time helping clients solve behavioural puzzles. But there was one piece I didn’t expect to impact my own dog’s behaviour so dramatically: his diet. Like many owners, I started with dry food. It was convenient, easy to portion, and marketed as complete. But deep down, something didn’t feel right. My dog, Kaiser, was struggling with digestion, inconsistent energy, and behavioural fluctuations.
That all changed when I made the leap to raw feeding.
Some of the positive benefits I noticed when we made the transition.
Why I Chose Raw Feeding for My Dog
I switched to a raw dog food diet after months of researching canine nutrition, observing subtle signs in Kaiser, and speaking with professionals. It became clear that while kibble may be common, it wasn't necessarily optimal.
Some of the benefits we noticed after the switch:
Improved digestion and firmer stools
A shinier, healthier coat
Reduced reactivity and improved focus during training
Healthier teeth and gums
Increased appetite and enthusiasm for meals
The change was undeniable. Kaiser felt better, and as a result, he behaved better.
How We Transitioned to Raw Dog Food Safely
Raw feeding doesn’t mean throwing your dog a steak and calling it a day. It requires education, balance, and structure. Here’s how we made the switch:
Consulted with experts - including our trusted local supplier, Raw Essex in Little Hallingbury. Their team is knowledgeable, welcoming, and always ready to support.
Slow transition - We introduced raw gradually, mixing it with Kaiser's old food over a week.
Balanced nutrition - We learned how to rotate proteins and ensure a proper ratio of meat, bone, and organ.
Trial and error - Every dog is different. We made tweaks based on Kaiser's reactions, digestion, and preferences.
How Raw Feeding Supports Dog Training
As someone who coaches dog owners daily, I’ve seen how nutrition directly impacts behaviour. A fresh, biologically appropriate diet like raw can:
Stabilise energy levels
Improve focus and engagement
Minimise gastrointestinal discomfort that can lead to irritability
When your dog feels good, they’re more receptive to learning. It’s that simple.
I also use box feeding and hand feeding with fresh and freeze-dried raw options to reinforce obedience, focus, and engagement during training.
We Love Freeze-Dried Raw For on the Go!
Travelling or training outdoors doesn’t always lend itself to raw meals. That’s where freeze-dried raw food comes in. Lightweight, shelf-stable, and mess-free, it's a convenient option that keeps Kaiser's nutrition consistent even when we're away from home.
Healthy guts = happy pups!
Is Raw Feeding Safe for Puppies?
Puppies can absolutely thrive on raw feeding, provided their meals are balanced for growth and development. I always recommend working with an experienced raw food supplier or canine nutritionist. Raw Essex is a great place to start if you're local to Herts or Essex.
Is Your Dog Thriving or Just Getting By?
Sometimes we accept mediocre results because they seem “normal.” But what if your dog could be calmer, healthier, and more responsive, just by changing their diet?
Why Raw Essex is Our Go-To Supplier
I’ve tried multiple brands, but Raw Essex consistently delivers in terms of quality, variety, and service. Based in Little Hallingbury, they’re more than a store - they’re a hub for education, support, and community! Whether you’re brand new to raw feeding or a seasoned pro, they make it feel simple.
Raw-fed dogs thrive on handfeeding - perfect for building engagement and calm obedience.
The Power of Box Feeding and Handfeeding for Training
Combining raw feeding with training techniques like box feeding (having your dog work for their food in a specific position or location) and handfeeding (rewarding directly from your hand) deepens the human-dog connection. It builds impulse control, engagement, and trust - and raw food makes it incredibly motivating.
A Holistic Approach to Dog Behaviour
Nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a powerful one. Kaiser is a testament to the benefits of switching to raw: physically healthier, mentally calmer, and more engaged during training.
If you're on the fence about raw feeding, I get it - I was there too! But it might just be the game-changer your dog needs.