Guides

Top 10 Raw Feeding Rules

Looking to start raw feeding your dog? Here are 10 of the most important tips, tricks and rules to follow. Ensure you're feeding your dog a complete and balanced raw diet with these rules and ratios from the experts.

Hidden Sugars in Commercial Pet Foods

Determining the amount of carbohydrate in your dog's diet isn't straightforward - but it's easy once you know how to spot hidden sugars in your pet's food with Narelle Cooke's advice.

The evolution of dogs and a species appropriate diet

Dogs have evolved and differentiated physically quite substantially over time. It is undeniable that a German Shepherd and a Chihuahua look vastly different, but does this mean they are as diverse on the inside? Despite physical characteristics that differentiate one breed of dog from another, dogs and wolves belong to the same genus (Canis) and share 99.9% of their DNA. These similarities can be identified in notable shared characteristics, like digging and foraging, social behaviours and ways of communicating. Replicate your dog's natural diet with these tips.

What to Feed a Dog with a Sensitive Stomach?

Does your dog have a sensitive stomach? Foods don’t seem to agree with your dog? Signs and symptoms of a sensitive stomach in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, gas, and nausea.

Bioavailability and Nutrition

Delve into the science of bioavailability and nutrition in raw dog food. Discover how natural ingredients enhance nutrient absorption, support optimal health and provide essential benefits for your dog. Find advice on how to maximise nutritional benefits through raw feeding and understand how bioavailability changes dog food.

A guide to raw feeding your puppy

Discover raw food for your puppy to support healthy growth, digestion, and immunity. Perfect for beginners, our guide teaches safe feeding and portion guides to raise a happy, healthy puppy with Big Dog raw food.

Digestion rates, stomach acidity and co-feeding your pet

Want to understand digestion rates and stomach acidity in pets? Wondering if you can feed kibble and raw together? Dr Duncan Houston shares the health benefits of feeding your dog raw food with their kibble.

How to introduce your dog to raw food

Starting your pet on a raw food diet? We recommend that dogs are introduced to a new food slowly over two weeks to minimise digestive upsets. Adding a probiotic for dogs to their food can help make the transition much smoother. See all of our tips in this guide.

'Complete and Balanced' and Raw Food - a Square Peg in a Round Hole?

A complete and balanced raw food diet for dogs usually looks different to processed diets; Narelle Cooke helps you to choose the right raw food option

Can you feed raw eggs to dogs and cats

Eggs for dogs? Can you treat your pets to some raw egg? Yes, you can feed your pet egg. Discover the health benefits of eggs for cats and dogs and any considerations to take when feeding egg to your pets. Learn about the nutritional value of egg and how to safely incorporate them into your pets diet.

A beginner's guide to raw dog food

Not sure where to start with raw dog food? This beginner-friendly guide shows you how to introduce your dog to a raw diet and ongoing healthy feeding advice.

The Whole Dog Approach

Consider the whole dog approach to providing your pet with the most happiest, healthiest life. Learn from the expert, Lara Shannon, what synergistic role a raw diet for your pet can have on their life.

Which Big Dog Raw Food Recipe is Right for My Dog?

With so many recipes and proteins to choose from, how do you choose the right raw food recipe for your dog? Big Dog Pet Foods' broad range has something for every dog. See which of our healthy raw food diets for dogs are right for your dog.

DIY balanced raw food diets

Home-made pet food is gaining popularity as our beautiful pets continue to be regarded as members of the family. Making your pet's food gives you full visibility over the quality of the ingredients that make up their diet. Here is your guide to DIY to help you get the balance right when it comes to making your pet's food yourself.

Natural ways to keep your dog's teeth clean

Dr Nicole Rous tells us it's so important to keep your pet's teeth healthy, and chronic dental disease is not good for their overall health: it causes chronic pain, puts pressure on every organ and not to mention creates bad dog breath! Dr Nicole shares her advice on natural ways you can keep your dog's teeth clean.

Nose to Tail Eating for Dogs and Cats

Clare Kearney delves into the concept of nose-to-tail eating for dogs and cats. This sustainable model of pet food is the best way to mimic your pet’s natural diet. See why nose-to-tail feeding for pets is a popular holistic approach to pet food.

Elimination Diets for Dogs – The Big Dog Way

Trying an elimination diet for your dog? Elimination diets are a great way to discover if your dog has a food allergy or sensitive or preferences with their food. Learn the best way to do an elimination diet with your dog and understand how tailored nutrition can help alleviate allergies, health conditions ad symptoms and help your pet thrive.

Should I give my dog probiotic foods or supplements?

Pet parents ask if they should feed their dog probiotic foods or give a probiotic supplement. Big Dog put the pro in probiotics; the biggest difference between probiotic foods and supplements is that probiotic supplements will often use strains at therapeutic levels, based on documented research, whereas probiotic foods are generally great at promoting a diverse microbiome.

Raw feeding your kitten

Raw food for cats has gained popularity as pet parents are researching healthy options for their pets. It's easy to feed your kitten raw food and Big Dog Pet Foods has over 20 years experience in this area, so we're happy to share our knowledge on raw feeding for kittens here.

Which single meat protein diet is right for my dog?

Find the perfect single protein dog food and see the benefits of various options from single protein goat for dogs, single protein turkey for dogs and single protein kangaroo for dogs. A single protein diet may help dogs with itchy skin and allergies.

Raw Feeding Rundown with Animal Nutritionist

Raw Feeding Rundown with Animal Nutritionist, Narelle Cooke. Your introduction to raw pet food and the benefits it provides your pet, how to find the best raw food for your dog and how to introduce raw food to your dog.

The vet industry is progressing with their acceptance of fresh food feeding

More vets these days are either tolerant or supportive of feeding fresh food to pets. Why are vets supportive of raw feeding pets these days? Safety and balance is key, as outlined by Dr Nicole in this article.

Pancreatitis in dogs and why diet choices matter

Big Dog Share Pancreatitis in dogs and why diet choices matter pancreatitis-in-dogs-and-why-diet-choices-matter www.bigdogpetfoods.com/guides/ pancreatitis-in-dogs-and-why-diet-choices-matter Try select only 1 cuddling dog with pancreatitis If you’ve ever sat across from your dog after a rough night of vomiting, a suddenly skipped breakfast, or that unmistakable “I don’t feel right” posture, you’ve probably heard the word pancreatitis mentioned. As a vet, we absolutely do see dogs with clear, “clinical” pancreatitis. But I also see something even more common. Dogs living in what I call a pancreas risk zone. They’re not acutely unwell enough for a dramatic diagnosis, yet their digestion and metabolism are telling a story. Recurrent gut upsets. Fussy or fluctuating appetite. Mild changes on bloodwork. Sensitive stomachs that flare after treats or diet changes. And often, not always, a background of ultra processed feeding patterns. To understand why this matters, you need to understand one thing first. ‍ What does the pancreas do in dogs Think of the pancreas as a quiet, behind the scenes organ that responds to every meal. It has two big jobs. The digestive pancreas exocrine pancreas This is the enzyme factory. When your dog eats, the pancreas releases digestive enzymes into the small intestine to help break food down. Here’s the key concept many pet parents have never been taught. • Amylase digests carbohydrates and starches • Lipase digests fats • Proteases digest proteins Why this matters is that the composition of the meal influences what the pancreas needs to produce. If a meal is more starch heavy, the body signals for more carbohydrate digestion support, meaning the pancreas needs to ramp up amylase output to match demand. And here’s a really helpful difference between dogs and humans. Humans begin starch digestion in the mouth because we produce salivary amylase. Dogs have little to no salivary amylase, so their starch digestion relies much more heavily on what happens after the meal reaches the small intestine, with a major contribution from pancreatic amylase. The blood sugar pancreas endocrine pancreas This department releases hormones like insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar. Most people are familiar with this because it is similar in humans. And remember, when carbohydrates are digested, they ultimately become glucose, which then requires hormonal regulation. Same organ, two jobs. ‍ So what is pancreatitis in dogs? The ‘itis’ in a word simply means inflammation, so pancreatitis means inflammation of the pancreas. It can be acute, meaning sudden, or chronic, meaning ongoing or low grade. Severity can range from mild to life threatening. In clinic, we diagnose pancreatitis using a combination of history, physical exam, blood tests and ultrasound. More serious cases often need intravenous fluid therapy, a drip, and hospital support. A quick note. Pancreatitis is different in humans. Common causes include alcohol and gall bladder disease. In dogs, the patterns and triggers are different. ‍ Signs of pancreatitis in dogs Pancreatitis doesn’t always look dramatic. Common signs include: • Vomiting or nausea • Reduced appetite • Lethargy • Abdominal discomfort, sometimes subtle • Diarrhoea • Dehydration If your dog is repeatedly vomiting, can’t keep water down, seems painful, collapses, or is profoundly lethargic, that’s an urgent vet visit. ‍ What causes pancreatitis? Here’s where we need to stay grounded and evidence based. Many cases are idiopathic, meaning we don’t find one neat cause, but there are well recognised risk associations. In dogs, one of the most consistent themes is dietary indiscretion and higher fat exposure, especially in dogs who already have metabolic risk factors. Common risk contexts include (Cridge et al., 2022): • High fat meals or sudden fatty treats • Hypertriglyceridaemia or hyperlipidaemia • Obesity • Concurrent endocrine disease, for example diabetes or Cushing’s ‍ Where carbohydrates fit into the story The two fold pressure concept Let’s take a step back again, because this is where the pancreas conversation becomes really powerful. Yes starch triggers a pancreatic job When a dog eats a starchy meal, the body signals for starch digestion, and pancreatic amylase plays a major role. Also yes dogs can digest carbohydrates Dogs have evolved alongside humans and developed genetic adaptations that support starch digestion (Arendt et al., 2014). There’s also individual variation between dogs, which is one reason some dogs seem to cope with starch heavy diets better than others. The key integrative insight - the pancreas can be working overtime in two ways When a dog eats a highly refined, starch heavy diet, the pancreas is involved in two ways. 1. Digestive demand producing more amylase to digest starch 2. Metabolic demand helping regulate post meal glucose via insulin signaling That doesn’t mean carbs cause pancreatitis. It means diet patterns can influence vulnerability over time, especially when the pattern is ultra processed, highly refined, and paired with lifestyle factors like weight gain, elevated triglycerides, and inconsistent treat habits. And once a dog is vulnerable, it may only take one trigger, a fatty treat, sudden diet change, scavenged food, or a gut upset, to tip them into a flare. The pancreas risk zone - what I see all the time If I had to describe a pre flare pattern, without inventing a formal diagnosis, it often looks like this. 1. Intermittent vomiting or sensitive stomach 2. Soft stools that come and go 3. Appetite that’s fussy or inconsistent 4. Weight creeping up 5. Known elevated triglycerides 6. A history of food events such as rich chews, table scraps, weekend extras This is where prevention becomes powerful. Not because you can control every variable, but because you can reduce the big loads that push a sensitive pancreas over the edge. ‍ Feeding principles that genuinely help Always follow your veterinarian’s plan for your individual dog, but these are common, evidence aligned principles, especially after pancreatitis or in recurrence prone dogs. 1. Control fat and keep it consistent Most conventional pancreatitis diet guidelines focus on low fat, and that can be a very appropriate starting point, especially early on (Cridge et al., 2024). Where I see dogs get into trouble is often with inconsistent fat exposure, the good during the week, rich treats on the weekend pattern, particularly when the base diet is highly processed and starch heavy. 2. Keep meals predictable Pancreas sensitive dogs usually do best on boring consistency. • Consistent base diet • Consistent treat rules • No surprise scraps 3. Choose digestibility over novelty In recovery, we want food that is gentle and predictable in the gut. 4. Support digestive capacity strategically For some dogs, I’ll consider targeted support such as synbiotics, meaning pre and probiotics, and in select cases, digestive enzymes. This is individual, and it should be guided by your vet based on your dog’s symptoms and history. 5. Zoom out body condition and triglycerides matter If a dog is overweight or has higher triglycerides, addressing that can meaningfully reduce overall pancreatitis susceptibility. 6. Monitor upstream changes I like to monitor bloodwork over time and look for subtle patterns before bigger problems appear. In some dogs, I’ll also track gut health more closely, because gut inflammation patterns and microbiome disruption can contribute to digestive instability. ‍ Which diet should you choose? There’s no single perfect diet for every dog. The best diet is the one that fits your dog’s individual needs and is sustainable for your family. For dogs in that risk zone, I’m usually thinking about reducing ultra processed inputs, improving overall ingredient quality, keeping fat exposure consistent, choosing a more stable species appropriate pattern where possible, and avoiding the food event lifestyle that so often triggers flares. Where Nourish Nutrition Optimal Support fits Nourish Nutrition Optimal Support For dogs with sensitive digestion, I also like the idea of adding a supportive nutrition layer alongside the right base diet. That’s where Nourish Nutrition Optimal Support can fit in. It combines quality animal ingredients with wholefood plant inputs and functional ingredients that support everyday digestive balance and the body’s natural clearance pathways, including gentle fibre and prebiotics such as apple, green banana and psyllium, plus nutrient dense green ingredients, mushrooms, and traditional herbs such as dandelion and milk thistle. Important note. If your dog has had pancreatitis, the priority remains a vet guided base diet with consistent fat intake. Optimal Support is best positioned as nutritional support, not a treatment for pancreatitis. ‍ Quick FAQ Does the pancreas make amylase in dogs? ‍Yes. Pancreatic secretions include digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases. Do carbs cause pancreatitis in dogs? ‍The strongest evidence in dogs supports fat exposure and dietary indiscretion and metabolic factors such as hyperlipidaemia as major risk themes. Carbs are digested partly via pancreatic amylase, but carbs directly cause pancreatitis is too simplistic. What should I feed after pancreatitis? ‍Your vet will guide the best option for your dog, but low fat, highly digestible diets are commonly recommended in management, especially early on. ‍ ‍ About the Author - Dr. Nicole Rous Dr. Nicole Rous completed her degree with Honours from the University of Sydney in 2008. She initially worked in the UK before returning to small animal practice in Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Nicole has a keen interest in animal reproduction and has been granted Membership with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in this specialty. She is also passionate about complementary therapies such as massage and enjoys discussing ways to enhance pets' overall well-being and quality of life. In August 2021, Dr. Nicole joined the Mont Albert Veterinary Surgery team as a director and continues to provide exceptional care to her patients. She is dedicated to utilising her knowledge and experience to assist pets in living longer, healthier, and happier lives. Dr. Nicole's commitment to providing natural and holistic health practices for pets inspired her to establish Shy Tiger, a company that offers natural pet products made from premium ingredients sourced primarily from Australian farms and producers. Her expertise in natural health practices and dedication to providing excellent care to her patients make her a reliable partner for pet owners in Melbourne and beyond. ‍ ‍ References for the evidence minded Merck Veterinary Manual. Pancreatitis in Dogs and Cats Internet. Available from: https://www.msdvetmanual.com/digestive-system/the-exocrine-pancreas/pancreatitis-in-dogs-and-cats Accessed 2026 Feb 15. Cridge H, Lim SY, Algül H, Steiner JM. New insights into the etiology, risk factors, and pathogenesis of pancreatitis in dogs: Potential impacts on clinical practice. J Vet Intern Med. 2022 May;36(3):847-864. doi:10.1111/jvim.16437. Epub 2022 May 12. PMID:35546513. PMCID:PMC9151489. Arendt M, Fall T, Lindblad-Toh K, Axelsson E. Amylase activity is associated with AMY2B copy numbers in dog: implications for dog domestication, diet and diabetes. Anim Genet. 2014 Oct;45(5):716-722. doi:10.1111/age.12179. Epub 2014 Jun 28. PMID:24975239. PMCID:PMC4329415. Cridge H, Parker VJ, Kathrani A. Nutritional management of pancreatitis and concurrent disease in dogs and cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2024 Jun 1;262(6):834-840. doi:10.2460/javma.23.11.0641. PMID:38569533. ‍ Pancreatitis in dogs explained by a veterinarian, covering symptoms, causes, and how diet choices impact pancreatic health. Learn why fat consistency, digestibility, and reducing ultra-processed foods matter for prevention and long-term management. 16 69c33f4ec118ca79c531d731

New Year’s Resolutions for Your Dog

Veterinarian, Dr Nicole Rous, shares a guide to five simple New Year's resolutions that improve your dog's health, happiness and longevity through nutrition, enrichment, movement and routine.

Types of Dog Vomit and What it Means (Vomit Guide)

Why is my dog vomiting? There are different reasons and different types of dog vomit, dogs can vomit yellow foam, food contents etc. Dr Nicole Rous helps you work out why your dog is vomiting, when and how to monitor your pet and when you should head to your vet.

Why Dogs Fear Storms and What You Can Do to Calm Them

Help your dog stay calm this storm season. It's commonf for pets to be anxious during storms; Veterinarian, Dr Nicole Rous explains why pets sense storms early and how diet, probiotics, and care can ease their anxiety.

Supporting Vital Organ Health in Dogs Through Nutrition

Dr Nicole Rous explains how nutrition supports your dog's liver and kidney health. Discover vet-approved foods and feeding tips to protect your pet's vital organs long term.

How Much Should I Feed My Dog? Why You Know Best

Wondering how much to feed your dog? Learn simple vet-approved guidelines from, Dr Nicole Rous, and why you know your dog best when it comes to portion sizes.

Can cats eat raw bones?

Not sure if raw bones are safe for cats? Veterinarian Dr. Nicole Rous shares expert advice to help you discover why raw bones can support your cat’s dental health, digestion, and mental wellbeing, plus which bones are best and what to do if your cat won’t chew.

Veterinary Guide to Dog Joint Health: Evidence-Based Arthritis Tips

Discover evidence-based, vet-informed strategies to manage dog arthritis from diet and supplements to exercise, meds, and joint health tips with Dr Nicole Rous.

How to Help Your Dog Gain Weight the Healthy Way

Learn how to help your dog gain weight the healthy way with practical, nutrition focused strategies. Discover the role of gut health, fresh food, and stress management in supporting safe, sustainable weight gain with Dr Nicole Rous' advice.

The 3-3-3 Rule of Adopting a Rescue Dog

Wondering how to integrate a rescue dog to your home? Dr. Nicole Rous explains how to do the 3-3-3 Rule for rescue dogs, a vet’s guide to easing anxiety, building trust, and supporting gut-brain health in your dog’s first 3 days, weeks and months in their new home.

How to Tell if your Cat is Sick?

Learn how to tell if your cat is sick or in pain. Cats are experts at hiding illness, so recognising subtle signs early is key to keeping your feline friend healthy. Thanks to Dr Nicole Rous.

Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs: Are They Really on the Rise?

Are sensitive stomachs in dogs on the rise, or are we just more aware of them? From stress and diet to environmental toxins and gut health, Dr Nicole Rous discusses the key factors behind digestive issues in dogs and how to support their well-being with balanced nutrition and proactive care.

The Neutering Debate: When is the Right Time to desex your Dog?

Explore the latest research on the timing of desexing your dog and its impact on health, behaviour, and well-being. Veterinarian, Dr Nicole Rous, explains how hormones affect growth, mental health, cancer risks, and more, to help you make an informed decision for your pet.

Does My Dog Need to Be Wormed? An Evidence-Based Approach

Learn about worm infestations in dogs, their types, symptoms, and risks. Dr Nicole Rous explains how to keep your pet healthy with a balanced approach to worming or deworming.

How to Manage Multiple Dogs in One Household and Reduce Conflicts

Learn how to foster harmony in a multi-dog household by understanding canine behavior, recognising body language, and preventing stress and anxiety for a peaceful living environment with multiple dogs, with Lara Shannon.

Why Your Dog Isn’t Eating: Common Causes and How to Help

Why is your dog not eating their food? Discover why your dog may struggle with new food transitions, especially when moving from processed diets, and explore common reasons for picky eating. Learn practical tips to help your dog regain their appetite and enjoy mealtime again with Lara Shannon.

Monoclonal Antibody Medicines - Understanding the risks for pets

Discover the risks of monoclonal antibody (mAb) medicines, a treatment for osteoarthritis in dogs. Learn about potential side effects, alternative treatments, and when to consider using mAb Medication for your dog with Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte.

Understanding Liver Disease in Pets: How Diet Can Make a Difference

Common signs of liver disease in dogs, from loss of appetite and vomiting to jaundice, seizures, and abdominal fluid retention. Dr Nicole Rous says you can manage and prevent liver disease in dogs with early detection, proper treatment, and a diet rich in liver-supportive nutrients.

The Power of Medicinal Mushrooms for Pets: A Veterinarian’s Perspective

Are medicinal mushrooms good for dogs and cats? Dr Nicole Rous explores immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and gut health benefits that medicinal mushrooms can have for your pet. Plus how medicinal mushrooms can support pets during cancer treatment.

Understanding the Early Signs of Liver Disease in Pets

Early signs of liver disease in dogs, from loss of appetite and vomiting to jaundice, seizures, and abdominal fluid retention. Dr Nicole Rous says you can manage liver disease in dogs with early detection, liver support diet and regular vet check-ups.

Why Is My Dog Itchy? Understanding the Causes and Solutions

"Why is my dog so itchy?" It's a common concern, and understanding the reasons behind it can help you manage your dog's discomfort. How much itching is normal, common causes of itching, if it's an allergy, and management strategies, focusing on diet and holistic care. By Dr Nicole Rous.

Liver Disease in Dogs: Early Signs and Symptoms, Holistic Prevention and Treatment

Learn about dog liver disease from holistic veterinarian Dr. Edward Bassingthwaighte. Discover early symptoms, causes, and natural treatment options including diet, herbs, and liver support for dogs

Ketogenic Diets for Dogs

A keto diet consists of high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate ratios in the diet. Dr. Nicole explains how research is demonstrating keto’s potential benefits for various health conditions in both humans and now in pets, including epilepsy, metabolic disorders, and potentially cancer.

Busting the Top 10 Myths for Raw Feeding

Is raw dog food good for dogs? Is raw dog food safe? Vet, Dr Nicole Rous, debunks the top 10 raw dog food myths with scientific research. See how a fresh, raw diet for our pets isn't a trend; it's a return to their natural diet.

A veterinarian's approach to itchy skin in dogs

Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte has a 5-step approach to treating allergies and itchy dogs. This includes natural remedies, dietary and lifestyle changes, and his advice on medication for itchy dogs.

Holistic Approaches to Calming Dog Anxiety and Stress

Veterinarian, Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte explains the early signs of anxiety in dogs, and the importance of early intervention. Understand the four major expressions of anxiety ”fight, flight, freeze, and fidget” to help prevent mild symptoms naturally and holistically from escalating into severe problems.

Energy Healing - The Ultimate Adjunctive Therapy for Pets?

Energy healing is a holistic practice where it can promote physical and emotional healing. Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte explores his journey with energy healing therapies and how they've become an integral part of his veterinary practice. He explores the benefits of energy therapies and how it can reduce pain, anxiety, improves mood, sleep and more.

The Naturopathic Approach to Reducing Pain and Inflammation in Dogs

Are you noticing joint issues with your dog? Naturopath, Dominique McGuire, explains how a balanced raw food diet plays a crucial role in keeping your pet active, healthy, and arthritis-free.

Understanding and Healing Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear infections in dogs can be hard to get to the bottom of. Veterinarian, Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte, explains what causes ear infections in dogs, how to avoid or prevent ear infections in dogs, and also how to treat ear infections in dogs.

Tick and Flea Treatments = Rocks and Hard Places

All pet parents need to consider tick and flea treatment, but with so many options how do you know what to choose and when it’s necessary? Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte shares his knowledge on fleas and ticks, the risks, the symptoms and, most importantly, tick and flea prevention and protection.

New Year’s Resolutions for Your Dog

Veterinarian, Dr Nicole Rous, shares a guide to five simple New Year's resolutions that improve your dog's health, happiness and longevity through nutrition, enrichment, movement and routine.

Why Dogs Fear Storms and What You Can Do to Calm Them

Help your dog stay calm this storm season. It's commonf for pets to be anxious during storms; Veterinarian, Dr Nicole Rous explains why pets sense storms early and how diet, probiotics, and care can ease their anxiety.

Supporting Vital Organ Health in Dogs Through Nutrition

Dr Nicole Rous explains how nutrition supports your dog's liver and kidney health. Discover vet-approved foods and feeding tips to protect your pet's vital organs long term.

How Much Should I Feed My Dog? Why You Know Best

Wondering how much to feed your dog? Learn simple vet-approved guidelines from, Dr Nicole Rous, and why you know your dog best when it comes to portion sizes.

Why Is My Cat Vomiting and What Does It Mean?

Why do cats throw up? What are the common causes of cat vomit, from hairballs to serious health issues. This guide to your cat's vomit will provide plenty of insight into their health and digestive system. See why your cat is vomiting.

Hydration Tips: How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

Struggling to keep your cat hydrated? Discover tips to get your cat to drink more water and learn how a raw diet can help boost their hydration and overall health!

Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs: Are They Really on the Rise?

Are sensitive stomachs in dogs on the rise, or are we just more aware of them? From stress and diet to environmental toxins and gut health, Dr Nicole Rous discusses the key factors behind digestive issues in dogs and how to support their well-being with balanced nutrition and proactive care.

What is your cat’s poo telling you?

Wondering what your cat's poo says about their health? Discover what different types of cat poop mean, from consistency to colour and contents, and what it could indicate about your cat’s health and well-being. We recommend your cat a fresh food diet that has high quality protein and bio-available ingredients for optimal digestion.

How can I keep my pet cool in the summer?

Keep your dog cool and comfortable this summer with expert tips on managing dogs in hot weather. Learn how to cool down a dog quickly and ensure your furry friend stays safe and happy while keeping your dog cool in summer.

Fireworks Safety for Dogs

Learn how to keep your dog calm and safe during fireworks season. Discover effective tips to reduce anxiety, prevent stress, and ensure your pup stays comfortable during noisy celebrations.

Pet Safety Over the Holidays

Keep your pets safe and happy this holiday season with our essential tips for pet safety over the holidays. Learn how to protect your furry friends from Christmas decorations, food dangers, and more for a stress-free holiday together.

Feeding raw food for your pet with sensitive skin

The solution to healthy skin for your pet may be in their diet. This Sensitive Skin recipe is formulated to support dogs with skin issues - itchy and allergies. Ditch the highly processed diets and nourish them from the inside out with raw food.

Do probiotics help dogs with anxiety?

Discover how probiotics may benefit dogs struggling with anxiety. Explore the science behind gut health, behaviour, and advice on picking the right probiotic for your dog. Find tips for incorporating probiotics into your dog's diet to promote calmness and well-being.

The Power of Medicinal Mushrooms for Pets: A Veterinarian’s Perspective

Are medicinal mushrooms good for dogs and cats? Dr Nicole Rous explores immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and gut health benefits that medicinal mushrooms can have for your pet. Plus how medicinal mushrooms can support pets during cancer treatment.

Understanding the Early Signs of Liver Disease in Pets

Early signs of liver disease in dogs, from loss of appetite and vomiting to jaundice, seizures, and abdominal fluid retention. Dr Nicole Rous says you can manage liver disease in dogs with early detection, liver support diet and regular vet check-ups.

Why is my dogs poo grey?

If you have noticed your dog's poo is grey, it is important to find the cause behind this to help monitor your dog's health and aid their digestion. Grey dog poo can have a few causes, this guide provides education on digestive issues causing grey poo and what a healthy dog poo looks like.

Why is my dog eating grass?

Wondering why your dog eats grass? Find out the reasons behind this behavior, from natural instincts to potential dietary needs. Learn when it’s perfectly normal and when it might signal a need for a diet change.

Why Is My Dog Itchy? Understanding the Causes and Solutions

"Why is my dog so itchy?" It's a common concern, and understanding the reasons behind it can help you manage your dog's discomfort. How much itching is normal, common causes of itching, if it's an allergy, and management strategies, focusing on diet and holistic care. By Dr Nicole Rous.

What food do you recommend for dogs with skin issues?

What food should you feed a dog with skin issues or allergies? If your dog is itching, feed them a diet that supports their immune system and nourishes their skin with omegas and low-allergen ingredients.

Tips for Preventing Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation Anxiety and other Separation Related Behaviours affect many dogs and cats. Signs of anxiety in dogs include trembling, licking of lips, pacing, increased drooling or salivation, shaking or a decrease in appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea. Separation Anxiety is a serious issue and pets don’t “just get over it”. The more they experience it, the worse it gets. Lara Shannon, dog trainer and behaviourist, shares her tips for pets with separation anxiety.

Plants and pets - safe and unsafe plants for cats and dogs

Explore our guide on safe plants for pets, learn which indoor and outdoor plants are pet friendly to create a safe and healthy environment for your cats and dogs. Learn signs and symptoms of your pets health reacting to certain plants. Understand what plants and flowers are toxic to cats and dogs.

Risks of Halloween Treats for Pets

Although Halloween chocolate and lollies may be a treat for you, it most definitely is a trick for your pets. It has been reported that during the week of Halloween, calls increase by 12%, and it is the number one date when emergency animal services are their busiest of the year. Here are some tips on how to prepare and what to avoid on Halloween to keep your pets safe.

Tick and Flea Treatments = Rocks and Hard Places

All pet parents need to consider tick and flea treatment, but with so many options how do you know what to choose and when it’s necessary? Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte shares his knowledge on fleas and ticks, the risks, the symptoms and, most importantly, tick and flea prevention and protection.

Why does my dog smell? How can I fix it?

It’s very normal for your dog to get a bit dirty or smelly, but there can be some more serious reasons for a smelly dog. We will talk about where the smell could be coming from and how you can fix it!

Why is my dog constipated?

Finding out what is causing your dog's constipation, how to help them and when to see a vet is incredibly important in supporting their digestive system and health. This guide covers natural dog constipation remedies and long-term solutions.

The importance of dental health for your pets

Signs of dental disease in your pet can be detected and prevented early. Your pet’s dental health is extremely important for their overall health; plaque, tartar, gingivitis & dental disease can have detrimental effects on their body. See the signs of dental disease in your pet.

Digestive Enzymes for our pets

Digestive enzymes are proteins the body produces and releases in various stages of digestion, in order to break down food and absorb the nutrients it contains. Clare Kearney explains how to feed digestive enzymes to your pets and when supplementation may be required.

Rescue Dogs: How to integrate them into your family with kindness

Rescue dogs are unique in many ways. It takes special, big-hearted people who are willing to take on rescue dogs, to give them a forever home. In this article, holistic vet, Edward Bassinghwaigthe will give you all the tips to help you welcome a rescue dog into your family with kindness.

Ideal weight for dogs (and cats)

There are a lot of overweight pets out there, and sometimes pawrents just aren't aware. Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte explains how to find our if your pet is overweight, and also what is the best diet to get them to their ideal weight.

How to determine the carbohydrate content of commercial dog food

Why aren't carbohydrates listed on some pet foods? Working out how much carbohydrates are hidden in your pet food is easy with this simple calculation.

What's in a Big Dog Raw Diet

Our Big Dog Pet Foods raw food recipes are packed with the nutrients needed to keep your pet healthy and happy. Explore what makes up the Big Dog Diet.

Are you ready to raw?

Ready to switch your dog to a raw diet? Find the perfect recipe for your dog with our Product Finder, calculate portions with our Feeding Guide Calculator, and see where to buy Big Dog Pet Foods near you.

Transform your dog's health

Feed your pet the natural way. Big Dog Pet Foods is convenient, affordable raw food, scientifically formulated for healthier digestion, shinier coats, and longer lives.

Raw Bites

Learn all about Big Dog Raw Bites dog food. See how this natural, nutrient-rich option can improve your dog's health, energy, and coat.

A lifelong raw feeding trial

Can my dog eat raw food their whole life? Big Dog Raw Foods has fed dogs a fresh, raw diet since 2000. See the lifelong testimonial and veterinary notes of a senior Labrador, Napoleon.

Big Dog's Complete Guide for Pet Parents!

Check out our FREE Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents. A comprehensive guide from industry experts to help you raise a healthy puppy or settle a rescue dog into your home

Complete and balanced by nature

The term “complete and balanced” causes a lot of confusion in pet food. But it was designed to give pet parents confidence that they are feeding food that is nutritionally sound. So how is the term "complete and balanced" defined? Learn about how to provide your pets with the best diet possible, naturally.

Fresh Dog Food Reviews

Is raw food good for dogs? Is raw dog food popular? Check out these reviews of Big Dog Pet Foods.

25 Years of Happy, Healthy Pets by Chris Essex

'25 Years of Happy, Healthy Pets' by Chris, Owner, Founder and Managing Director of Big Dog Pet Foods.

How Big Dog is made: Minimal processing, maximum nutrition

How is Big Dog raw food made? With high quality ingredients, minimally processed to retain maximum nutrition for pets to replicate their natural diet. Big Dog raw food’s manufacturing process is simple and safe in controlled temperatures with strict quality control.

Quality and Safety at Big Dog

Is Big Dog Raw Food safe for pets? Big Dog Pet Foods have been making raw food for pets for over 25 years with trusted suppliers and strict quality control to ensure the safety of our raw pet food. See Big Dog's quality and safety processes outlined here.

Feeding Guides Explained

Most pet parents get very confused when it comes to how much to feed their pet. This will help you understand feeding guides on pet food labels, and the right amount of food to feed your pet.

A guide to raw feeding your puppy

Discover raw food for your puppy to support healthy growth, digestion, and immunity. Perfect for beginners, our guide teaches safe feeding and portion guides to raise a happy, healthy puppy with Big Dog raw food.

Types of Dog Vomit and What it Means (Vomit Guide)

Why is my dog vomiting? There are different reasons and different types of dog vomit, dogs can vomit yellow foam, food contents etc. Dr Nicole Rous helps you work out why your dog is vomiting, when and how to monitor your pet and when you should head to your vet.

How Much Should I Feed My Dog? Why You Know Best

Wondering how much to feed your dog? Learn simple vet-approved guidelines from, Dr Nicole Rous, and why you know your dog best when it comes to portion sizes.

How do I store and thaw raw dog food rolls

Raw dog food is safe and healthy when stored and handled correctly. We share the best practices for storing and thawing Big Dog’s raw dog food rolls to keep your pet’s meal fresh and safe.

How much does it cost to feed my dog a raw food diet?

How much does a raw diet for dogs cost? Big Dog Pet Foods makes healthy food accessible for all dogs with affordable raw dog food recipes. You can feed your 10kg dog a high quality diet for as little as $3.50 per day.

Can dogs eat raw bones?

Dogs can eat raw bones, including raw chicken bones. This guide will help you choose the right bone for your dog's size and needs, and how to feed bones safely.

How to determine the carbohydrate content of commercial dog food

Why aren't carbohydrates listed on some pet foods? Working out how much carbohydrates are hidden in your pet food is easy with this simple calculation.

What's your dog’s poo telling you?

Learning the three C’s of your dog’s number 2’s is a great way to monitor your dog’s health. This guide on your dog's poo will provide insight in their health. You should be looking for a light to dark brown colour in your dog’s stools, they should also be firm and easy to pick up – the perfect poo.

How to tell if your pet's weight is in the healthy range

Is your pet overweight? Weight gain is one of the primary drivers of many chronic health conditions in pets seen today and weight loss can similarly be a sign of ill health. This guide will help you determine if your pet is a healthy weight and tips and tricks to help your dog lose weight.