Keeping your dog healthy in 2026 doesn’t have to be complicated – but it does require making some informed choices.
From embracing natural, species-appropriate nutrition to supporting digestion, weight management and mental wellbeing, small daily habits can add up to big improvements in your dog’s overall health.
Whether you’re considering a raw diet, looking to enhance mealtimes with superfoods or simply aiming to reduce toxins in their environment, the experts at Cotswold RAW are here to help, with 10 evidence-based tips to help you give your dog the vibrant, energetic and balanced life they deserve.
Try transitioning to a raw diet
Raw feeding is a dietary practice where you feed your dog a meal comprised entirely of raw ingredients, aiming to mimic what a dog would naturally eat in the wild and offering an alternative, unprocessed diet choice.
A raw diet can support your dog’s overall health by promoting better digestion; healthier skin; improved joint and oral health; calmer behaviour; and balanced body mass. It’s never too early or too late to make the switch – and doing so could be one of the best decisions you make for your dog’s health in 2026 and beyond.
Prioritise quality ingredients
When preparing your pooch's next meal, try focusing on whole ingredients such as meat, organs, bones and greens.
Meat ingredients are better preserved and more bioavailable in their natural state. Raw ingredients mimic your dog’s natural evolutionary diet and provide balanced amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
Rotate proteins regularly
Can you imagine having to eat the same meal every day? Variety is the spice of life and keeps mealtimes interesting for both humans and dogs.
Protein rotation also improves gut resilience and ensures a well-rounded nutrient profile, as all meats provide different ranges of vitamins and minerals. Meat sources should also vary, with both muscle meat and organs being provided. Organ meats generally contain more taurine than muscle meats and are densely packed with vitamins and minerals.
Consistently include superfoods in their diet
Many complete and balanced raw diets contain superfoods already. Cotswold RAW's complete and balanced meals all contain its Butcher’s Blend, which is a natural, herbal mix used to enhance your dog’s diet. It’s full of vitamins, minerals and trace elements which help maintain equilibrium in the body for a healthy dog.
If you are not currently feeding raw and wish to add some superfoods, some of Cotswold RAW's favourites include:
- Blueberries
- Turmeric
- Oily fish
- Eggs
- Bone Broth
Avoid vague ingredients
When selecting food or treats, always check that the ingredients list clearly states what's inside.
Terms such as ‘animal derivatives,’ ‘cereal by-products’ and ‘derivatives of vegetable origin’ are vague and do not offer ingredient transparency. The protein, carbohydrate and fat sources can vary between batches with such listings, which can also be irritating to sensitive dogs. Raw and natural feeding focuses on whole, honest ingredients – no shortcuts.
Support gut health
A dog’s diet has a major influence on their gut microbiome and overall digestive health. Subsequently, digestive health has an impact on overall health and mood. A happy gut, means a happy dog.
Tripe is a common ingredient used in raw diets and not only do dogs love it, but it's packed with natural probiotics, which support the gut flora. Plant matter from vegetables, herbs and some milled seeds can offer prebiotics, which feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut; and bone broth provides digestive support, as it is packed with the amino acids’ glycine and proline, which are soothing to the intestinal mucosa.
Maintain a healthy weight
We love our dogs – and although we have the best intentions when spoiling them with lots of treats and big meals, it isn’t always in their best interest and obesity remains a leading cause of preventable disease. Raw food naturally supports lean muscle mass, satiation and stable blood sugar level, while treats should make up no more than 10 per cent of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
To check if your dog is at an ideal body condition, you should be able to feel their ribs easily without them protruding, they should have a visible waist when viewed from above and a tucked-up abdomen from the side.
Provide constant access to fresh water
Water is arguably the most important nutrient and signs of a deficiency will be apparent far sooner than with most deficiencies, which can slip under the radar for a long time.
Naturally, dogs would obtain the bulk of their water from their meals, but dry food diets typically contain less than 10 per cent moisture, whereas a raw or wet diet contains 60 to 80 per cent. Dogs fed a high moisture diet will typically drink less than those on a dry diet, but access to fresh water remains of utmost importance. Make sure that water bowl is kept clean, too!
Reduce toxins with more natural choices
Support your dog’s long-term health by limiting their exposure to artificial additives and preservatives.
Simple switches can be made, such as avoiding chemical-heavy grooming products and opting for natural meaty chews, rather than synthetic chews, such as rawhide. Reducing toxins results in a lower inflammatory burden on the body.
Keep their brain active
Keeping your dog’s brain active is essential because mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for their overall wellbeing. An engaged brain helps prevent boredom, which can lead to stress, anxiety and problematic behaviours. Regular cognitive enrichment supports healthy brain function as dogs age, slowing cognitive decline and keeping them sharp.
Some great enrichment activities include; puzzle feeders, lick mats, offering a meaty chew or raw bone, toys and training sessions.
For more information or to find your dogs next delicious meal or treat, visit cotswoldraw.com.
