Australia’s Rawgust Revolution: Why More Dog Owners Are Going Raw
- Bear & Kind
- Aug 9
- 4 min read
Every August, Aussie pet lovers celebrate Rawgust - a month dedicated to the benefits of raw feeding for dogs. But for many, this isn’t just a seasonal trend. Across Australia, more dog owners are ditching processed kibble and embracing fresh, species-appropriate diets that promote better health, calmer behaviour, and longer, happier lives.
What is Raw Feeding?
Raw feeding means giving your dog meals made from fresh, uncooked ingredients - the kind of food their ancestors would have eaten in the wild. It’s about nourishing them with real meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables, fruits, and nutrient-dense extras. There are two main styles:
BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food): A balanced blend of meat, bones, organs, and nutrient-rich extras like eggs, leafy greens, or kelp.
PMR (Prey Model Raw): A simpler approach focused entirely on meat, bones, and organs - no plant ingredients, mimicking a whole prey diet.
The philosophy is simple: Feed dogs what they’re built to eat - and watch them thrive.
Why Are So Many Dog Owners Making the Switch?
Many dog owners try raw feeding after struggling with ongoing health issues like allergies, digestive problems, or anxiety. The switch often brings real, visible improvements. Common health benefits include:
Better Digestion
Raw diets are free from hard-to-digest fillers like corn, soy, and wheat. The natural enzymes in raw meat also support easier digestion and better nutrient absorption. The result? Smaller, firmer poops, less gas, and fewer upset tummies.
Healthier Skin & Shinier Coat
Raw food is naturally rich in healthy fats, especially omega-3s, and contains zinc and vitamin E - all of which nourish the skin and coat. You'll often see less scratching, fewer hot spots, and a glossier coat within weeks.
Stronger Muscles & Better Weight Management
Raw feeding offers high-quality, species-appropriate protein that supports lean muscle and healthy weight. Because there are no empty carbs or sugars, it’s easier for dogs to burn fat and stay in great shape.
Improved Immune System
With more bioavailable nutrients, raw diets provide the vitamins and minerals needed for a resilient immune response. Nutrient-dense organ meats, antioxidants from added veg, and probiotics from fermented ingredients all help keep illness at bay.
Calmer Behaviour & Mood
A healthy gut helps regulate mood, thanks to the gut-brain connection. Raw diets promote a healthy gut microbiome, which can reduce anxiety, hyperactivity, and even aggression. Many owners say their dogs seem more settled and focused.
Better Dental Health
Chewing raw meaty bones naturally cleans the teeth and gums—removing plaque, strengthening jaw muscles, and reducing bad breath. It’s like a toothbrush and dental treat rolled into one (but tastier).
If you're noticing any of these issues with your dog, raw feeding might be worth exploring. The improvements often speak for themselves - and you may be amazed by how quickly they show up once you switch.
Superfoods in Raw Feeding: What They Do and Why They Matter
Many premium raw food brands now include natural superfoods to give your dog an extra health boost. These ingredients are chosen not just because they’re trendy - but because they support specific functions in your dog’s body.
Medicinal Mushrooms (like Reishi, Shiitake, Turkey Tail)
Supports: Immune health, liver function, anti-inflammatory responses
Why they help: These mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and beta-glucans, which help modulate the immune system - especially helpful for dogs with chronic illness or those recovering from infections.
Green-Lipped Mussels
Supports: Joint health and mobility
Why they help: They’re packed with omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin - natural compounds known to reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and protect cartilage, especially for ageing or arthritic dogs.
Fermented Vegetables (like sauerkraut or fermented pumpkin)
Supports: Gut health, digestion, and nutrient absorption
Why they help: Fermentation increases probiotics, which promote a healthy gut microbiome. This improves digestion, boosts immunity, and helps regulate mood and behaviour via the gut-brain axis.
Kelp or Seaweed
Supports: Thyroid function, skin and coat, dental health
Why they help: Rich in iodine, calcium, and trace minerals, kelp supports a healthy metabolism, reduces plaque buildup on teeth, and adds shine to your dog’s coat.
Eggs
Supports: Muscle development, skin and coat, eye health
Why they help: Eggs are a complete protein and packed with biotin, lutein, and fatty acids - perfect for building strong muscles and maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
Adding these superfoods to a raw diet means your dog gets more than just basic nutrition - they get targeted support for joints, digestion, immunity, and overall vitality.
Is Feeding Raw Safe?
Raw feeding is absolutely safe when done correctly. To ensure your dog (and family) stay healthy:
Buy from trusted, reputable brands
Keep raw food frozen or refrigerated
Wash hands, bowls, and surfaces thoroughly
Transition gradually to prevent tummy upsets
Homemade raw diets can work too - but only if they’re nutritionally balanced. Many pet owners choose commercial raw meals for convenience and peace of mind.
Celebrate Rawgust with a Fresh Start
If Rawgust has you curious, now’s the perfect time to start.
1. Start slow: Introduce one raw meal a day or mix with current food over 7–10 days.
2. Choose a quality brand: Look for Australian-made, human-grade, nutritionist-formulated products.
3. Keep it clean: Follow good hygiene when handling raw food.
4. Watch for changes: Notice improvements in energy, skin, stools, and temperament.
5. Check in with your vet or canine nutritionist: Especially if your pup has health conditions.
Raw feeding doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Even one raw meal a day can make a difference. So… ready to give raw a try?
Further Reading... To learn more about raw feeding in Australia including some of the Aussie brands leading the way, check out these articles by pet journalist Caroline Zambrano in the current edition of Australian Dog Lover:
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