FAQs
What is Raw Dog Food?
Opting for a raw diet helps preserve the natural integrity of ingredients by avoiding cooking. This approach features whole, natural ingredients, including a variety of fruits and vegetables, muscle meat, whole or ground bones, and organ meat.
What are the benefits of feeding Raw?
Wondering why you should feed your dog a raw diet? Here are some compelling reasons and benefits. We strongly encourage pet owners to conduct their own research and make informed decisions. At Taylor Made Raw, we firmly believe that once you learn the facts, you’ll be eager to switch from kibble to Taylor Made Raw! To help you take the first step, here are a few key benefits:
1. Transform Your Pet’s Health and Happiness
Enhancing digestibility, promoting gut health, strengthening the immune system, and addressing degenerative conditions such as hip and joint issues, periodontal disease, allergies, and seizures can help ensure a brighter, healthier future for your beloved pet.
2. Improved Digestion and Reduced Waste
Switching to a raw diet provides numerous benefits over traditional pet foods. With nearly 100% digestibility, it leads to reduced stool volume and smaller, firmer stools. In contrast, kibble often contains carbohydrates like grain, soy, corn, rice, and wheat, which can contribute to health issues and produce large amounts of indigestible waste.
3. Healthier Teeth, Gums, and Breath
Unlike traditional pet foods such as kibble, canned options, and home-cooked meals, Taylor Made Raw’s unique ground bone formula provides a comprehensive solution. Our formula has been proven to prevent dental disease, eliminate bad breath, and promote optimal gut health. Additionally, it helps prevent decay and digestive issues commonly associated with processed pet diets, offering a truly balanced and beneficial option for your pet’s overall well-being.
4. Stronger Immune System and Allergy Relief
Taylor Made Raw stands out with its unique and carefully formulated recipes designed to enhance your dog’s immune system and overall health. By incorporating raw, whole ingredients that work in harmony with your pet’s digestive tract, this diet can help reduce and eliminate food allergies, strengthening the immune system naturally.
What ingredients are in Taylor Made Raw?
Bone in protein
Bone In! At Taylor Made Raw, we’re all about giving your dog the absolute best! That’s why we double-grind all our proteins with the bone included. This incredible preparation means your dog can soak up the rich nutrients in raw chicken and beef bones, ensuring they receive maximum digestibility and nourishment!
For generations, dogs have thrived on the powerful nutritional benefits of raw bones packed with essential elements that promote overall health and vitality. The rich makeup of chicken and beef bone is the perfect balance of calcium and phosphorus, which is crucial, especially for large breeds that are growing fast.
By adding bone to their meals, you’re not just feeding your dog—you’re equipping them with the essential support they need for healthy growth, strong bones, and boundless energy. Treat them to a meal that’s delicious and a powerhouse of nutrition!
Chicken Organ Meat
Incorporating organ meats into your dog's diet is crucial for fulfilling their nutritional needs. These nutrient-dense parts of chickens provide outstanding health benefits for your canine companion. That's why every batch of Taylor Made Raw Performance Chicken includes chicken liver, chicken heart, and chicken kidney.
Chicken Hearts are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in taurine—an amino acid vital for heart health. They also provide an excellent source of protein, iron, and zinc, along with essential vitamins such as B6, B12, and niacin. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids found in chicken hearts can help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure, further promoting cardiovascular health.
Chicken Liver is a standout ingredient that significantly boosts your pet's immunity. Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, chicken liver strengthens the immune system. It supports the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, which serve as the body's first line of defense against infections.
Chicken Kidneys are not only nutritious but also delicious. They enhance the flavor of your dog's food, making mealtime more enjoyable. Chicken kidneys offer a wide range of vitamins, including B12, E, and K. The vitamin A found in kidneys aids in producing eye cells and helps improve vision, keeping your pup ready for anything well into their senior years.
Beef Organ Meat
Beef organ meat is an exceptional source of nutrition, featuring a powerful combination of vital organs: beef heart, liver, and kidney. Together, these components provide a wealth of nutrients essential for the health and development of dogs.
Starting with beef heart, it is rich in essential nutrients, including high-quality protein, heme iron, a comprehensive range of B vitamins, taurine, and Coenzyme Q10. Taurine, in particular, plays a significant role in supporting cardiovascular health in dogs, enhancing heart function and overall energy metabolism. Additionally, the collagen and elastin present in beef heart contribute to maintaining joint and bone integrity, which is vital for robust skeletal health.
Moving on to beef liver, this organ is a remarkable source of key nutrients such as vitamins A and B complex, iron, copper, and zinc. These nutrients work synergistically to support various aspects of health, including skin vitality, vision, immune function, and red blood cell production.
Lastly, beef kidney is another nutritional gem, offering vitamins A, K, E, and B12, alongside essential minerals like iron, selenium, and magnesium. The nutrients found in beef kidney not only encourage healthy skin and a shiny coat but also provide essential support for the immune system through vital vitamins and antioxidants.
Incorporating these organ meats into a dog's diet can significantly enhance their overall well-being and vitality.
Raw Green Tripe
Raw green tripe is a nutrient-rich, minimally processed food that provides a low-fat, high-protein option for your dog. It contains an abundance of living digestive enzymes, beneficial prebiotics and probiotics, and Lactobacillus acidophilus, all of which contribute to maintaining a healthy gut for your furry friend.
Organic Norwegian Kelp
Organic Norwegian Kelp is a remarkable seaweed harvested from the ocean floor. It is rich in vital trace minerals such as iodine, iron, manganese, copper, and zinc—nutrients often lacking in farm soils due to modern agricultural practices. This nutrient powerhouse offers numerous benefits, including bolstering immune function, supporting healthy skin and a lustrous coat, and promoting cardiovascular health. Additionally, kelp aids digestion, making it particularly beneficial for dogs experiencing a reduced appetite.
With its low fat and calorie content, kelp is an exceptional source of protein that supports muscle development, making it a great addition to any diet. Its high fiber content further enhances digestive health, ensuring nutrients are efficiently absorbed and utilized. Incorporating kelp into your dog's nutritional regimen can contribute to overall wellness and vitality.
Mackerel
Unlike humans, dogs do not absorb significant amounts of vitamin D from sunlight and must rely on their diet to meet this essential nutritional need. One excellent source of vitamin D is mackerel, a fish renowned for its rich nutrient profile.
Not only is mackerel a tasty addition to your dog’s diet, but it is also highly digestible, making it an ideal option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
As a powerhouse of protein and calcium, mackerel supports strong bones, muscle development, and overall health. Incorporating this nutrient-dense fish into your dog’s diet can be a great way to enhance their well-being and ensure they receive the essential vitamins and minerals they need.
Apples
Apples are an excellent addition to your dog's diet due to their high dietary fiber content, which aids digestion. They are also rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin A and vitamin C. The significant amount of vitamin C in apples supports proper metabolic function, regulates the immune system, and reduces oxidative stress. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs dealing with allergies or joint problems.
Carrots
Carrots are a fantastic addition to your dog's diet, especially for weight management and digestive health. Packed with fiber, potassium, vitamin A, and beta-carotene, these vibrant vegetables offer a range of health benefits. The beta-carotene in carrots supports eye health and vision, making them an excellent choice for your dog’s overall well-being.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a powerful, health-boosting treat for dogs. They are bursting with antioxidants and essential minerals like magnesium, which plays a crucial role in supporting muscle function and heart health. Additionally, the high copper content in cranberries promotes red blood cell production, which is vital for your dog's overall well-being. But cranberries don’t stop there—they are particularly effective in supporting urinary tract health, making them a valuable addition to your dog's diet.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a rich source of essential vitamins, including vitamin C, which supports collagen formation and bone health, and vitamin K, which aids in blood clotting and bone metabolism. These nutrients help maintain strong bones and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Additionally, blueberries contain antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress, helping to prevent tissue damage, cancer, and diabetes, making them a valuable addition to your pet's diet.
Spinach
When portioned correctly, spinach is an excellent superfood for dogs. It is packed with essential nutrients, including:
Vitamin A for vision and immune function
Vitamin B for proper nervous system function
Vitamin C for immune support
Vitamin K for blood clotting
Additionally, spinach contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, and iron, which supports muscle, bone, and organ health by improving oxygen transport throughout the body.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a fantastic staple in your dog's diet due to its rich vitamin E content. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat while reducing excessive shedding. Pumpkin also contains important minerals like potassium, which plays a key role in supporting overall health. If your dog seems unusually tired or has lost its appetite, it may be due to a potassium deficiency.
Green-Lipped Mussels
Green-lipped mussels are a natural powerhouse of taurine, an amino acid essential for various bodily functions. While taurine is naturally synthesized in a dog's body, a deficiency can lead to serious health issues such as vision impairment, high blood pressure, anxiety, obesity, and depression. In addition to taurine, green-lipped mussels contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which help reduce arthritis symptoms and promote joint health. Adding green-lipped mussels to your dog's diet supports mood, mobility, and overall well-being.
Golden Paste (Turmeric)
Turmeric is a powerful natural supplement for dogs, thanks to its key compound, curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It helps reduce joint pain, supports digestion, boosts immunity, promotes heart and liver health, and may even have anti-cancer benefits. To maximize absorption, turmeric should be combined with black pepper and healthy fats like coconut oil which makes up our Golden Paste.
Honey
Honey is a remarkable addition to your dog's health regimen, especially for addressing skin issues and allergies. This golden elixir is packed with powerful antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a natural remedy for various dermatological conditions. Its unique ability to combat harmful microorganisms contributes to a healthier coat and skin, which is invaluable for dogs suffering from persistent skin problems.
Incorporating honey into your dog's daily diet can be a proactive way to manage common skin allergies, such as eczema. Doing so may help alleviate discomfort and promote a happier, healthier life for your canine companion. The soothing and nourishing qualities of honey not only support a vibrant coat but also enhance your dog's overall well-being, turning your pet’s daily routine into a journey toward improved health and vitality.
What are fillers and why we don’t use them at Taylor Made Raw?
Understanding the impact of fillers and their potential harm to your dog's health is crucial when choosing the right food for your pet. Fillers offer little to no nutritional value and can strain your dog's digestive system. Just like in humans, the consumption of fillers—especially as your dog ages—can lead to health issues, weight gain, and even life-threatening diseases.
Sure, fillers may enhance taste, but they aren’t beneficial for your pet. Most fillers leave dogs feeling unsatisfied and hungry. If your dog's food contains fillers, you may need to feed them more just to maintain their energy levels. Unfortunately, these extra portions are often considered ‘empty calories,’ meaning they provide energy without essential nutrients, further compromising your dog's health.
As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to recognize the signs of declining health in your dog, such as allergies, lumps, joint problems, tooth decay, weight gain, and behavioral issues like anxiety. Many of these health issues can be directly linked to fillers in your dog's diet. By eliminating fillers, you can help prevent potential health problems and ensure a longer, healthier life for your beloved pet.
But what is a filler, and why do so many dog foods include it in the recipe?
The most common fillers found in dog food—including air-dried food and even some high-end raw food—are maize, soy, wheat, white potato or potato starch, white rice, rice flour, corn, and other vegetable-derived ingredients. Recently, we’ve even seen certain ‘fad health foods’ making their way into popular raw dog food brands.
It’s important to remember that just because a food has nutritional value for humans doesn’t mean it’s beneficial for pets. Some marketers target health-conscious consumers by incorporating ingredients that are good for people but not for dogs, misleading buyers while cutting costs. Kale and broccoli are prime examples of this deceptive marketing—they may be nutritious for you, but they should not be included in your pet’s diet.
A dog’s diet is straightforward—they only need a few high-quality, impactful ingredients to maintain optimal health. This simplicity should give you confidence when choosing the right food for your pet. If a pet food label contains a long list of ingredients or words you can’t pronounce, it’s a strong indicator that it may not be the best choice for your dog.
What is Shelf Life?
Our raw dog food is specifically designed to be stored frozen, ensuring its freshness for up to a year after delivered to your home. Once defrosted, the food can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, maintaining its quality and nutritional value.
How should I transition my dog from kibble to raw?
When transitioning your dog from kibble to Taylor Made Raw, it's important to take it slow. A sudden change in diet can shock your dog's digestive system, so gradually introducing the new food is key.
We recommend the following transition plan:
Days 1–4: Mix 25% raw with their regular food.
Days 5–8: Mix 50% raw with their regular food.
Days 9–12: Mix 75% raw with their regular food.
By gradually increasing the raw food portion, you’ll help your dog adjust smoothly, supporting better digestion and overall well-being.
What if my dog doesn’t want to eat raw?
It’s not unusual for some dogs to have difficulty transitioning from highly processed kibble to raw food. If your dog is experiencing issues, here are a few things you can do:
Follow the transition guide.
Limit treats to avoid digestive upset.
Add a little warm organic chicken or beef broth.
Feed on a consistent schedule.
Be patient—adjusting to a new diet takes time!
My dog seems constipated?
As your dog's stools become smaller and firmer, they may experience some difficulty in passing them. However, this is actually beneficial as the increased effort helps to naturally evacuate the anal glands, reducing the frequency of professional grooming or vet visits for the same purpose.
My dog’s stool is white?
Feeding your dog a raw meat-based diet can significantly reduce stool volume, as the body absorbs nutrients more efficiently. A noticeable change in stool color and consistency, often turning chalky white, is completely normal and indicates that your dog's body has utilized all the nutrients from its food—a positive sign of good health.
However, if your dog consumes table scraps or various treats, its stool may revert to its previous state, resembling what it was like on a dry food diet.
Do you stand behind your product?
At Taylor Made Raw, we stand behind the quality of our raw food with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If for any reason you are not fully satisfied with your order, simply reach out to us within seven days of receiving it, and we will happily refund your purchase in full.
Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we want you to feel confident in choosing Taylor Made Raw for your pet’s nutrition.