Raw Pet Food Benefits in Canada: Why Canadian Dog and Cat Owners Are Switching in 2026

Raw pet food benefits in Canada are driving a significant shift in how dog and cat owners feed their companions. As of 2026, more Canadian pet owners are moving away from conventional kibble and exploring raw food diets for their dogs and cats — and the reasons go far beyond passing trends. From improved coat condition to better digestion and leaner muscle mass, the conversation around raw feeding is grounded in practical, observable outcomes that pet owners across the country are reporting firsthand.

At Ashario Pets, located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, Ontario, we carry one of the most comprehensive selections of raw dog food and raw cat food in the region. Open 9 AM to 11 PM daily, 365 days a year, we make it easy for Canadian pet owners to explore, compare, and confidently switch to raw feeding on their own schedule.

What Is a Raw Food Diet for Pets?

A raw food diet for dogs and cats — often referred to as a BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or a whole prey diet — consists of uncooked animal proteins, organ meats, raw meaty bones, and sometimes fruits, vegetables, and supplements. The foundational idea is that the ancestral diet of dogs and cats consisted of raw, minimally processed foods, and that replicating this diet as closely as possible can support long-term health.

Raw pet food in Canada comes in several formats, each designed to suit different lifestyles and feeding preferences:

• Frozen raw food — sold in patties, nuggets, or bulk bags; requires thawing before serving
• Freeze-dried raw food — raw ingredients preserved through freeze-drying; shelf-stable and easy to portion
• Air-dried raw food — gently dried at low temperatures to preserve nutrients while remaining shelf-stable
• Dehydrated raw food — requires rehydration with water before serving; similar nutritional profile to frozen raw

Each format offers distinct advantages depending on your storage space, travel habits, and your pet's preferences. You can explore the full range of raw dog food and raw cat food available at Ashario Pets to find the format that fits your routine.

Key Benefits of Raw Feeding for Dogs in Canada

The benefits of raw feeding dogs in Canada are consistently reported across multiple dimensions of health and behaviour. While every dog is different and veterinary guidance is always recommended, here are the most commonly observed improvements when switching to a raw food diet.

Improved Coat and Skin Condition

One of the first changes dog owners notice after transitioning to raw food is a shinier, softer coat and a reduction in dry or flaky skin. Raw diets are typically higher in natural fats and essential fatty acids — particularly omega-3s found in proteins like salmon and sardines — which directly support skin barrier function and coat quality. Brands like Big Country Raw, Instinct Raw, and Primal, all available at Ashario Pets, offer protein-rich raw formulas designed to deliver these nutrients in their most bioavailable form.

Better Digestion and Smaller Stools

Raw food is highly digestible compared to processed kibble, which often contains fillers, starches, and binding agents that add bulk without nutritional value. Pet owners switching to raw frequently report that their dogs produce significantly smaller, firmer, and less odorous stools — a sign that more of the food is actually being absorbed rather than passed through. Brands like Raw Performance and Red Dog Blue Kat, both Canadian brands carried at Ashario Pets, are formulated to maximize digestibility.

Lean Muscle Mass and Healthy Weight

High-protein, low-carbohydrate raw diets naturally support lean muscle development. Dogs fed raw food often maintain a healthier body composition compared to those on high-starch kibble diets. This is particularly beneficial for active dogs, working breeds, and dogs recovering from weight-related health concerns under veterinary supervision.

Dental Health

Chewing raw meaty bones and consuming raw proteins requires significant mechanical effort that naturally helps reduce tartar buildup on teeth. While raw feeding alone is not a substitute for dedicated dental care, many dog owners report noticeably cleaner teeth and fresher breath after transitioning to a raw diet. For those who want to complement a raw diet with dental-specific products, dog treats including dental options are also available at Ashario Pets.

Increased Energy and Vitality

Dog owners frequently describe a notable boost in energy and overall vitality after switching to raw. This is often attributed to the absence of artificial preservatives, colours, and synthetic flavour enhancers common in conventional pet foods, combined with the higher bioavailability of nutrients in raw ingredients.

Raw Food Diet Benefits for Cats in Canada

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their biology is specifically designed to derive all essential nutrients from animal-based proteins. Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesize certain amino acids — such as taurine and arginine — from plant sources, making the protein quality and origin in their diet critically important. A raw food diet cat owners in Canada are adopting is often seen as the most biologically aligned way to feed a cat.

• Hydration — Raw cat food has a significantly higher moisture content than dry kibble, supporting kidney and urinary tract health. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive and benefit greatly from moisture in their food.
• Weight management — The high protein and low carbohydrate content of raw diets supports lean body mass and reduces the likelihood of obesity-related health issues.
• Coat quality — Similar to dogs, cats on raw diets often show visibly improved coat softness and reduced shedding.
• Digestive health — Many cats with sensitive stomachs or food intolerances respond well to raw feeding, as it eliminates many of the common irritants found in commercial cat food.

At Ashario Pets, we carry raw cat food from brands including Instinct Raw, Stella & Chewy's, Primal, and ZIWI — all available for in-store purchase or through convenient home delivery. You can browse the full selection on our raw cat food collection page.

Switching to a Raw Diet in Canada: What You Need to Know

Switching to raw diet Canada pet owners consider should always be done gradually and ideally with guidance from a veterinarian, especially for puppies, senior pets, immunocompromised animals, or pets with existing health conditions. A typical transition takes one to two weeks, slowly increasing the proportion of raw food while reducing the previous food.

Safe raw feeding practices include:

• Thawing frozen raw food in the refrigerator — never at room temperature
• Washing food preparation surfaces and utensils thoroughly after handling raw meat
• Serving portions sized appropriately to your pet's weight, age, and activity level
• Sourcing raw pet food only from reputable, commercially prepared brands that meet Canadian food safety standards

For a comprehensive overview of transitioning your dog or cat, we recommend reading our in-depth Raw and Holistic Pet Food Guide for Canadian Dog and Cat Owners in 2026, which covers transitioning protocols, format comparisons, and brand-specific guidance in detail.

Raw Pet Food Brands Available at Ashario Pets North York

Ashario Pets in North York carries a curated selection of raw and raw-adjacent pet food brands, including several proudly Canadian options. As of 2026, the raw food brands available in-store and for delivery include:

• Big Country Raw — Canadian brand offering a wide range of frozen raw meals for dogs and cats
• Raw Performance — Canadian raw food brand focused on high-protein, species-appropriate formulas
• Red Dog Blue Kat — Canadian raw food brand with options for both dogs and cats
• Instinct Raw — Raw freeze-dried and frozen options with a strong presence in the Canadian market
• Stella & Chewy's — Freeze-dried raw meals and meal mixers for dogs and cats
• Primal — Raw frozen and freeze-dried options made from high-quality animal proteins
• ZIWI — New Zealand-sourced air-dried and wet food formulas using a raw-equivalent nutritional approach
• The Honest Kitchen — Dehydrated whole food diets made with human-grade ingredients

You can also explore our complete top pet product brands in Canada page and our made in Canada pet products page to see the full scope of what we carry. For specific health goals or dietary needs, visit our best pet food for specific needs guide.

Shop Raw Pet Food at Ashario Pets or Order for Delivery

Ashario Pets is located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7, and is open every single day of the year from 9 AM to 11 PM — including holidays. You can reach us by phone at +1-647-564-4433, or visit us in store to speak with our knowledgeable team about raw feeding options for your dog or cat.

We also offer home delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan, making it easy to have raw pet food delivered directly to your door anywhere in the North York area and beyond.

Visit our dog wellness needs and cat wellness needs pages for more resources on building a complete nutrition and care plan for your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raw Pet Food in Canada

Is raw pet food safe for dogs and cats in Canada?

Commercially prepared raw pet food from reputable brands sold in Canada is formulated to meet safety and nutritional standards. Safe handling practices — including proper thawing, refrigeration, and sanitation — are important when feeding raw. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant dietary changes, especially for puppies, kittens, senior pets, or animals with health conditions.

What is the difference between frozen raw, freeze-dried raw, and air-dried pet food?

Frozen raw food is the most natural form — uncooked meat and organs preserved by freezing. Freeze-dried raw food is made by removing moisture from raw ingredients at low temperatures, creating a shelf-stable product that retains most of the nutritional profile of fresh raw. Air-dried food is gently dried at low heat over an extended period, also shelf-stable and nutrient-dense. Each format suits different storage situations and feeding preferences.

How do I transition my dog or cat to a raw food diet?

Most pet nutrition experts recommend a gradual transition over seven to fourteen days — starting with 75% current food and 25% raw, then slowly increasing the raw ratio. This allows your pet's digestive system to adjust. Some pets transition faster than others. Consulting a veterinarian before starting the transition is always recommended, particularly for pets with existing digestive sensitivities.

Where can I buy raw pet food in North York, Ontario?

Ashario Pets at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7, carries a comprehensive selection of raw dog food and raw cat food from brands including Big Country Raw, Raw Performance, Red Dog Blue Kat, Instinct Raw, Stella & Chewy's, Primal, ZIWI, and The Honest Kitchen. The store is open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM, 365 days a year. Delivery is available through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan.

Is raw food more expensive than kibble in Canada?

Raw food typically costs more per serving than conventional dry kibble, though this varies depending on the brand, format, and your pet's size. Many pet owners find that improved digestion and health outcomes offset some of the cost over time. Ashario Pets offers a price match guarantee and regular pet product promotions and coupon codes to help make premium pet food more accessible.