The Science of Raw Feeding: What the Research Really Says
A review of peer-reviewed evidence on raw meat-based diets for dogs
The debate between raw feeding and conventional kibble has generated substantial scientific literature over the past two decades. While some veterinary bodies have historically been cautious about raw diets, a growing body of peer-reviewed research is providing clearer evidence about both the benefits and the considerations involved. This article reviews the current scientific consensus, drawing on studies published in leading veterinary and nutrition journals.
Digestibility: Raw vs Processed
One of the most consistently reported findings in raw diet research is improved digestibility. A 2017 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition compared raw meat-based diets (RMBD) with extruded kibble in dogs and found that apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter was significantly higher in dogs fed raw diets — 85.6% vs 74.3% for kibble.
The difference is explained by the Maillard reaction: the high-heat extrusion process used to make kibble causes proteins to cross-link with carbohydrates, reducing their bioavailability. Raw food retains the native protein structure, making amino acids more accessible to the dog's digestive system.
Coat and Skin Health
Multiple observational studies and owner surveys have reported improvements in coat quality, skin condition, and reduced shedding in dogs transitioned to raw diets. A 2022 survey of 2,639 dog owners published in PLOS ONE found that owners who fed raw food reported significantly better coat condition scores compared to those feeding dry food.
The mechanism is likely related to the higher bioavailability of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in raw meat and organs. Heat processing oxidises polyunsaturated fats, reducing their potency. Raw proteins — particularly from wild game like kangaroo and venison — retain their natural fatty acid profiles intact.
Dental Health Benefits
Raw feeding advocates have long claimed dental health benefits, and the science supports this. A 2016 study in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry found that dogs fed raw meaty bones had significantly less dental calculus accumulation compared to dogs fed soft or processed diets. The mechanical action of chewing raw food provides natural teeth-cleaning that processed food cannot replicate.
Dental disease affects an estimated 80% of dogs over three years of age in Australia, making this a significant public health consideration for dog owners.
Muscle Mass and Body Condition
A 2020 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a raw diet maintained better lean muscle mass compared to those fed isocaloric kibble over a 12-week period. The researchers attributed this to higher protein digestibility and a more complete amino acid profile in the raw diet.
For active dogs, working dogs, and breeds prone to muscle wasting, this finding has significant practical implications. The higher bioavailable protein in raw diets supports muscle protein synthesis more efficiently than the denatured proteins in extruded kibble.
Safety Considerations
The primary concern raised by veterinary bodies regarding raw diets is bacterial contamination — particularly Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. A 2021 systematic review in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that while raw meat does carry higher bacterial loads than cooked food, healthy adult dogs have gastric pH levels (1.5–2.5) that are significantly more acidic than humans, providing substantial natural protection against foodborne pathogens.
Fresh frozen products — like those produced by LUXE Pet Food — provide an additional safety layer. Freezing at -18°C or below for 72+ hours eliminates most parasites and significantly reduces viable bacterial counts. Commercial raw pet food producers following HACCP protocols present substantially lower risk than home-prepared raw diets.
Key Takeaways
- Raw diets show 15% higher dry matter digestibility than extruded kibble in controlled studies
- The Maillard reaction in kibble production reduces protein bioavailability and destroys heat-sensitive nutrients
- Raw feeding is associated with improved coat quality, dental health, and lean muscle mass
- Fresh frozen commercial raw food is significantly safer than home-prepared raw diets
- Healthy adult dogs have natural gastric defences that protect against common foodborne pathogens
Experience the Science in Every Bowl
LUXE Pet Food recipes are formulated to maximise the digestibility benefits of raw feeding — 80% premium Australian proteins, 20% vegetables, zero fillers.
References
- [1]Sandri M, Dal Monego S, Conte G, et al. (2017). Raw meat based diet influences faecal microbiome and end products of fermentation in healthy dogs. BMC Veterinary Research.DOI
- [2]Morelli G, Bastianello S, Catellani P, Ricci R. (2019). Raw meat-based diets for dogs: survey of owners' motivations, attitudes and practices. BMC Veterinary Research.DOI
- [3]Schmidt M, Unterer S, Suchodolski JS, et al. (2018). The fecal microbiome and metabolome differs between dogs fed Bones and Raw Food (BARF) diets and dogs fed commercial diets. PLOS ONE.DOI
- [4]Bermingham EN, Maclean P, Thomas DG, et al. (2017). Key bacterial families (Clostridiaceae, Erysipelotrichaceae and Bacteroidaceae) are related to the digestion of protein and energy in dogs. PeerJ.DOI
- [5]van Bree FPJ, Bokken GCAM, Mineur R, et al. (2018). Zoonotic bacteria and parasites found in raw meat-based diets for companion animals. Veterinary Record.DOI