At ardam (formerly CDK9 Raw), we get asked this question all the time: why bother switching your dog to raw food when kibble is convenient and your dog seems fine on it? The short answer is that raw feeding is a more natural fit for your dog's biology, and many raw-fed dogs experience improvements in energy, coat condition and digestion. Here is the longer answer.
A brief history of dog food
Dog food as we know it today has only existed for about the last 100 years. Commercial pet food began after World War I, when canned horsemeat was sold as a way to use surplus and unwanted meat. By the 1940s it had grown into an industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars, built in large part on using waste and by-products from the human food industry.
That pattern continues today. Ingredients that do not meet human food standards are often recycled, repackaged and marketed as healthy options for dogs. Manufacturers have become skilled at using words like "complete", "balanced", "premium" and "natural" on packaging, even when the ingredient list tells a different story. It is worth asking: how natural can a dry, heavily processed food really be for your dog?
Dogs are built for raw
Despite thousands of years of domestication, dogs have not changed all that much from their wild ancestors when it comes to digestion. Their digestive systems are shorter and more acidic than ours, which helps them break down raw proteins and fats efficiently. Combined with a jaw structure and chewing pattern suited to tearing meat, dogs remain biologically geared towards a diet based on raw meat, bone and organ.
What is actually in dry food?
Look closely at a bag of kibble and you will usually find it is marketed more to the person buying it than the dog eating it. Behind names like "chicken casserole" or "beef and rice" you will often find grains such as corn and rice, plus fillers like bone meal, none of which reflect a dog's natural diet.
Highly processed dry food has been associated with a range of wellbeing concerns for dogs, including weight gain, dull coat condition, dental buildup and digestive sensitivity. We are careful not to overstate this. Diet is one factor among many, and any individual health concern should always be discussed with your vet. What we can say is that many raw-fed dogs experience improvements in these areas after switching.
The raw alternative
A complete raw diet built from a variety of proteins, raw meaty bones, and specific vegetables and fruit is designed to supply the nutrients dogs need for healthy growth and everyday function. Many owners who switch report:
- Easier digestion
- Higher energy levels
- Shinier, healthier-looking coats
- A more active lifestyle for longer
Raw feeding, sometimes referred to as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), was championed early on by Australian veterinarian Dr Ian Billinghurst, who observed that moving dogs onto this style of feeding helped support their overall vitality. As with any dietary approach, results vary by dog, and ongoing veterinary guidance matters, especially for puppies, seniors or dogs with existing conditions.
Our promise
ardam, formerly known as CDK9 Raw, believes your dog deserves food that matches what their body is designed for. We have years of experience feeding both commercial and raw diets, and we have seen first-hand the difference raw feeding can make. Our K9 Raw meals are:
- Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
- Free from preservatives and fillers
- Formulated to meet nutritional needs across different life stages
- Vacuum sealed as soon as they are made, to help preserve freshness
- Delivered straight to your door
Ready to see what raw feeding could do for your dog? Browse our full range, try a sample pack to see how your dog takes to it, and use our food calculator to work out the right portion size. Check our delivery information to see how quickly we can get fresh meals to your door.
FAQs
What are the benefits of feeding my dog a raw diet?
Raw feeding can support easier digestion, a healthier coat and skin, and steady energy levels, since it provides high-quality proteins and nutrients close to a dog's natural diet. Results vary between dogs.
Is raw feeding suitable for all dogs?
Many dogs do well on a raw diet, but it is worth discussing any dietary change with your vet first, particularly for puppies, senior dogs or dogs with existing health conditions.
How do I transition my dog to a raw diet?
Transition gradually. Start by mixing small amounts of raw food into your dog's current diet and increase the raw portion over 7 to 10 days, watching how your dog responds along the way.
Are there risks associated with raw feeding?
As with any raw ingredients, safe handling matters. Keep raw food properly stored and prepared, and make sure the overall diet is balanced and complete.
Where can I find more information on raw feeding guidelines?
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) publishes general guidance on pet nutrition, including raw feeding practices, which can be a useful reference alongside advice from your vet.
How much should I feed my dog on a raw diet?
Portion sizes depend on your dog's weight, age and activity level. Our food calculator can help you find a sensible starting point.
Reviewed by the ardam team.
The lowest-friction way to start is with a pre-balanced complete raw meal rather than DIY.
