One of the things I love most about raw feeding is how naturally it adapts to a dog’s needs throughout their life. Whether you’re raising a bouncy puppy, supporting a healthy adult, or caring for a senior companion, fresh food provides the nutrients their body requires at every stage.
Here’s a breakdown of how raw feeding supports each life stage.
1. Puppies — Building the Foundation
Puppies grow fast. Their bones, muscles, immune system, and brain all develop rapidly, which means they need:
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High-quality protein
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Balanced calcium and phosphorus
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Healthy fats for brain development
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Easily digestible nutrients
Raw diets naturally provide these building blocks. Research shows that balanced raw diets support healthy growth, strong bones, and stable development.
At Raw Made Simple, our Complete Puppy varieties are specifically formulated for growing dogs. They feature finer mince for little mouths, making it easier for puppies to chew and digest while still providing a complete, balanced diet.
Feeding amounts
Puppies typically require 5–8% of their body weight per day, split into 3–4 meals. This gradually reduces as they grow.
Why raw works so well for puppies
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Highly digestible proteins
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Natural fats for sustained energy
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Smaller, firmer stools
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Steady, healthy growth
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Strong immune support
Many owners report that puppies on raw diets have calmer energy, better focus, and improved trainability.
2. Adults — Maintaining Strength and Vitality
Once dogs reach adulthood, their nutritional focus shifts from growth to maintenance. Raw feeding supports healthy body composition, energy levels, and overall vitality.
Adult dogs thrive on:
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Lean proteins to maintain muscle
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Natural fats for energy
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Balanced minerals for overall health
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Moisture-rich meals for hydration
Studies show that minimally processed, high-protein diets help adult dogs maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and support digestion.
Feeding amounts
Most adult dogs do well on 2–3% of their body weight per day, depending on activity level.
Why raw suits adult dogs
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Supports healthy weight and muscle tone
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Reduces inflammation
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Promotes dental health, especially with raw meaty bones
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Keeps digestion smooth and consistent
This life stage often shows the most visible benefits: shinier coats, fresher breath, and that unmistakable “raw-fed glow.”
3. Seniors — Supporting Comfort and Longevity
Older dogs often show the most dramatic improvements on a raw diet because fresh food gives their ageing bodies what they need without ultra-processed ingredients.
Senior dogs benefit from:
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Highly digestible proteins, easier on ageing digestion
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Natural anti-inflammatory fats
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Moisture-rich meals to support kidney health
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Balanced minerals for joint and bone support
Research shows that digestibility becomes increasingly important with age, and raw diets can offer superior nutrient absorption.
Feeding amounts
Seniors usually need around 2% of their body weight per day, adjusted for mobility and metabolism.
Why raw is ideal for seniors
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Maintains muscle mass
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Supports joint comfort
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Reduces digestive strain
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Encourages steady energy
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Improves coat and skin condition
Many senior dogs become brighter, more mobile, and more comfortable within weeks of switching to raw feeding.
A Final Word From Me
Every dog deserves food that respects their biology — from their first wobbly steps to their golden years. Raw feeding isn’t just a diet; it’s a way of caring for your dog that adapts to their needs at every stage of life.
Whether you’re raising a puppy, supporting an active adult, or cherishing a senior companion, raw feeding can make a real difference. And if you’re curious about making the transition or choosing the right meals, our Complete Meals and Wilder range come in convenient, resealable tubs to make feeding simple and safe.
If you have questions about feeding your dog at any life stage, message me on WhatsApp — I’d be happy to guide you personally.
