8 Major Benefits of Raw Pet Food For Dogs

8 Major Benefits of Raw Pet Food For Dogs

Why Northern Nevada Pet Owners Are Making the Switch to Raw Diets

More and more dog owners in Northern Nevada are turning to raw pet food as a natural, nutrient-rich alternative to processed kibble. Running Wild Raw Food believes that feeding your dog a biologically appropriate, raw diet can make a lasting impact on their overall health and well-being.

Here are eight major benefits of raw pet food for dogs, and why making the switch could be the best decision for your four-legged friend.

What Is Raw Pet Food?

Raw pet food typically includes a combination of raw meat, organ meats, bones, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. The idea is to mirror a dog’s natural ancestral diet, what they’d eat in the wild, while providing complete and balanced nutrition.

Our raw food products are locally sourced, minimally processed, and tailored to help your dog thrive.

1. Improved Digestion & Nutrient Absorption

Dogs are natural carnivores with digestive systems built to handle raw meat and bones. Raw pet food is easier to digest than heavily processed kibble, which often contains fillers and preservatives. Many pet parents in Reno, Sparks, and Carson City report fewer stomach issues, less bloating, and healthier stools after switching to raw.

2. Shinier Coats & Healthier Skin

One of the first visible benefits of raw feeding is a softer, shinier coat and reduced itching or flaking. That’s thanks to the essential fatty acids and higher-quality proteins found in raw meat and organs.

Dogs in dry Northern Nevada climates especially benefit from the added hydration and skin support raw food provides.

3. Better Weight Control & Muscle Tone

Raw diets are naturally higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates than most commercial kibble. This helps support lean muscle mass and promotes a healthy body weight, even for less active or aging dogs.

For pet owners concerned about obesity in dogs, raw feeding offers a clean, efficient way to manage weight without reducing portion sizes too drastically.

4. Cleaner Teeth & Fresher Breath

Raw bones help scrape away plaque naturally, acting as a toothbrush for your pup. Plus, raw food lacks the starchy fillers in kibble that can lead to tartar buildup and bad breath.

Switching to raw is one of the easiest ways to promote better dental health for dogs, without the need for daily brushing or frequent dental cleanings.

5. Stronger Immune System

Raw pet food contains vital nutrients, enzymes, and antioxidants that support your dog’s immune function. The more bioavailable your dog’s food is, the better their body can use it to fight off inflammation, disease, and common illnesses.

Dogs eating raw often experience fewer vet visits and bounce back more quickly from injury or stress.

6. Smaller, Less Smelly Stools

Because dogs absorb more of the nutrients in raw food, there’s less waste to eliminate. Raw-fed dogs produce smaller, firmer stools that smell less and break down faster in the environment, a big plus for active owners hiking or exploring in the Reno-Tahoe area.

7. Better Behavior & Energy Levels

Many pet owners report improved mood, focus, and energy in their dogs after switching to a raw diet. A more natural, balanced diet can reduce hyperactivity, mood swings, or even aggression triggered by imbalanced blood sugar levels.

Raw-fed dogs tend to have stable, calm energy that lasts all day, great for working breeds and family dogs alike.

8. Reduced Allergies & Food Sensitivities

Kibble often contains common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives. By switching to a limited-ingredient raw diet, many dogs experience relief from chronic ear infections, skin rashes, hot spots, and digestive issues.

Running Wild Raw Food offers custom raw blends in Northern Nevada to support dogs with allergies, sensitivities, and special dietary needs.

Why Northern Nevada Dog Owners Trust Running Wild Raw Food

Running Wild Raw Food is passionate about helping dogs live longer, healthier lives through species-appropriate nutrition. We serve dog owners throughout Reno, Sparks, Carson City, and beyond with high-quality raw meat, bones, and complete meals you can trust.

  • Locally sourced ingredients

  • No fillers, additives, or preservatives

  • Balanced for optimal canine nutrition

  • Available for pickup or delivery in Northern Nevada

Ready To Make The Switch To Raw? Contact Running Wild Raw Food in Northern Nevada

If you're curious about feeding your dog raw in Northern Nevada, we're here to help! Shop our starter kits or contact us for a consultation to find out the right plan for your pup.

Let’s help your dog thrive, naturally.