Skip to content
Pala
Complete raw dog foodSingle ingredient dog treatsOur foodOur story

Affordable Raw Diet Options for Dogs in the UK

Are you keen to feed your furry friend a raw diet without breaking the bank? Good news - nourishing your dog with raw food doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Let’s explore how to keep your canine companion healthy and your wallet happy with these budget-friendly raw feeding strategies.

Budget-Friendly Raw Food Brands in the UK

Several UK brands offer quality raw food at reasonable prices:

  • Paleo Ridge Essentials Range: Starting from £2.50 per kg, this range boasts an impressive 81% nutritional rating according to the All About Dog Food (AADF) assessment. It’s a great option for those looking to balance quality and affordability.

  • ProDog Raw: This brand offers starter packs from as little as 41p per day for toy breeds, making it an accessible option for those new to raw feeding. Their 5kg Sample Pack is an excellent way to introduce your dog to raw food without committing to large quantities.

  • Benyfit Natural: Their Sensitive Complete range starts at £2.64 for 500g, offering a budget-friendly option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This brand proves that even specialized diets can be affordable.

These brands demonstrate that quality raw food doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag. By choosing these cost-effective options, you can provide your dog with nutritious meals without overspending.

Money-Saving Strategies for Raw Feeding

1. Buy in Bulk

Purchasing larger quantities can significantly reduce costs. Consider these approaches:

  • Buy monthly boxes instead of weekly supplies. Many suppliers offer discounts for larger orders.
  • Split bulk orders with other dog owners. This can be a great way to access bulk discounts without overwhelming your storage space.
  • Look for seasonal deals and offers. Many raw food suppliers have regular promotions that can lead to substantial savings.

For example, Paleo Ridge offers Essential Boxes that provide excellent value for money when bought in bulk. This approach not only saves money but also ensures you always have a steady supply of raw food on hand.

2. Choose Cost-Effective Proteins

Some protein sources offer better value while maintaining nutritional quality:

  • Chicken (typically the most economical)
  • Beef mince
  • Turkey
  • Seasonal game when available

These proteins are often used in bulk purchases and can be mixed with other ingredients to create a balanced diet. For instance, chicken is a staple in many raw diets due to its affordability and nutritional profile. You can mix it with cheaper organ meats and vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.

3. Mix and Match Approach

You don’t need to go 100% raw to see benefits. Try these approaches:

  • Use raw as a topper on regular food. This can be a great way to introduce raw food and stretch your budget.
  • Feed raw for one meal and regular food for another. This approach can help you manage costs while still providing the benefits of raw feeding.
  • Start with weekend-only raw feeding. This can be a good way to transition both your dog and your budget to a raw diet.

For more guidance on mixing feeding approaches, check out our guide on how to get your dog to eat different foods.

Smart Storage Solutions

Proper storage is crucial for making raw feeding affordable:

  1. Invest in a dedicated freezer (pays for itself through bulk buying)
  2. Use portion-sized containers to avoid waste
  3. Label everything with dates to ensure rotation
  4. Create a rotation system to use older food first

These storage solutions can help you take advantage of bulk buying discounts without worrying about food spoilage. For example, using raw dog food in bar formats, such as those from 4PAWSRAW, can aid in portioning and storage. Each bar is divided into four cubes, making it easy to customize meals based on your dog’s size, breed, and dietary needs.

Practical Tips for Beginners

Starting Out

  1. Begin with one protein source to gauge your dog’s response
  2. Calculate portions using our dog food calculator to avoid overfeeding
  3. Monitor your dog’s body condition score to ensure they’re maintaining a healthy weight

Adding Affordable Extras

Boost nutrition economically with:

These additions can enhance your dog’s diet without significantly increasing costs. For instance, eggs are an excellent source of protein and can be a cost-effective way to vary your dog’s diet.

Cost-Effective Meal Planning

Create balanced meals without breaking the bank:

  • Base proteins (70%): Choose economic options like chicken or turkey
  • Organ meat (10%): Buy from local butchers in bulk for savings
  • Bone content (10%): Ask for free or low-cost bones from butchers
  • Vegetables (10%): Use seasonal produce for best value

This breakdown ensures your dog gets a nutritionally complete diet while keeping costs manageable. For example, you could create a meal using chicken as the base protein, mixed with chicken liver for organ meat, ground chicken bones for calcium, and seasonal vegetables like carrots or spinach.

Long-Term Cost Benefits

While the initial switch to raw feeding might seem expensive, consider these long-term savings:

  • Potential reduction in vet bills due to improved overall health
  • Better dental health, potentially reducing the need for professional cleanings
  • Improved overall health, which may lead to fewer health issues over time
  • Less food waste due to better portion control and higher food palatability

Many raw feeders report that their dogs have shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and more energy after switching to a raw diet. While these benefits are anecdotal, they could potentially lead to reduced healthcare costs over time.

Getting Started on a Budget

  1. Start small - perhaps one raw meal per week to test the waters
  2. Build up gradually as you learn what works for your dog and your budget
  3. Join local raw feeding groups for bulk-buying opportunities and advice
  4. Look for seasonal deals and offers from raw food suppliers
  5. Consider air-dried options as a convenient and often more affordable alternative

Remember, any amount of raw food can benefit your dog - you don’t need to dive in completely to see positive results. Start with what fits your budget and adjust as you go along.

For more detailed guidance, check out our raw dog food recipes for cost-effective meal ideas.

By implementing these strategies, you can provide your dog with the benefits of a raw diet without straining your finances. Whether you choose to go fully raw or incorporate raw elements into your dog’s existing diet, there are plenty of affordable options available to UK dog owners.