Dog Food, Feeding & Nutrition Questions (1–100)

1. What is the best type of dog food?
   The best dog food is one that’s complete and balanced, nutritious, and suits your dog’s individual needs. At Poppy’s Picnic, we believe in feeding dogs a fresh, raw food diet that mimics what nature intended: minimally processed, balanced, and packed with real meat. Our RAW POWER, MIGHTY MINCE and POWER BALLS ranges are crafted with this in mind.
2. Should I feed my dog dry or wet food?
   While dry food is convenient, many dogs thrive on fresh or raw wet food due to its higher moisture content and natural ingredients. Poppy’s Picnic offers a variety of fresh raw meals that are gently minced, making them easy to digest and full of natural nutrients.
3. How much should I feed my dog?
   Feeding amounts depend on your dog’s size, age, breed, and activity level. We recommend using the feeding calculator on our website to find the right portion. For example, our raw food typically follows the 2-3% of body weight guideline.
4. How often should I feed my dog each day?
   Most adult dogs do well on two meals per day, while puppies need more frequent feeding, typically three to four times a day. At Poppy’s Picnic our food is suitable for dogs of all ages, and our team can help guide your dog's daily feeding schedule for our raw diet.
5. What ingredients should I avoid in dog food?
   Some owners, particularly those choosing a raw diet, prefer to avoid artificial preservatives, colourings, rendered meats, and grains used as fillers. Poppy’s Picnic meals are made with high-quality British meat, vegetables, and botanicals nothing artificial, ever.
6. Is grain-free dog food better for my dog?
   Some dogs do better on a grain-free diet, especially those with digestive sensitivities. All of Poppy’s Picnic complete meals are naturally grain-free, using vegetables and herbs instead of starchy fillers for balanced nutrition.
7. Can dogs be allergic to certain dog foods?
   Yes, dogs can develop allergies to ingredients like chicken, beef, wheat, or dairy. Consult with your vet if you think this might be the case with your dog.
8. What’s the difference between adult and puppy dog food?
   Puppies need more calories, protein, and nutrients to support rapid growth. Poppy’s Picnic meals are all formulated specifically with the right calcium-phosphorus ratio and energy density to support healthy development.
9. How do I choose the right food for my dog’s breed?
   Breed can influence metabolism, activity level, and common sensitivities. Our feeding advisors at Poppy’s Picnic are always happy to help tailor a meal plan based on breed traits, plus, our meal ranges suit everything from tiny Dachshunds to working Labradors.
10. Can I make homemade dog food?
    You can, but it’s tricky to get the nutritional balance right. That’s why Poppy’s Picnic recipes are created with pet nutritionists and vets, to give you the ease of homemade-style meals without the risk of having any nutrient deficiencies.
11. What human foods are safe for dogs?
    Some human foods like plain cooked meats, carrots, blueberries, and eggs are safe for dogs in moderation. But it’s vital to ensure meals are balanced. Poppy’s Picnic recipes include many dog-safe whole foods combined in just the right proportions for your dog’s health.
12. What foods are toxic to dogs?
    Foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, and xylitol (an artificial sweetener) are toxic to dogs. When you buy a commercially prepared complete food like ours, it means you can be sure you are feeding dog-safe ingredients you can trust.
13. How do I switch my dog to a new food?
    Most dogs can switch immediately. For a few dogs it might be necessary to switch gradually over 5-7 days, mixing in the new food with their current meals and increasing the amount slowly. We recommend following our Raw Feeding Transition Guide on the Poppy’s Picnic website to help your dog switch comfortably to raw.
14. Why is my dog not eating their food?
    This could be due to boredom, stress, illness, or disinterest in the food itself. Many fussy eaters love the fresh smell and taste of Poppy’s Picnic raw food, especially our meatball-style POWER BALLS which are easy to portion and super appealing to dogs. Also our SUPER SPRINKLES add a dash of extra smell and texture to add variety 
15. Is raw dog food better than kibble?
    The most important thing to remember with any type of dog food, is to always feed a completed food. All complete foods should be made to meet with the industry nutritional guidelines for dogs. Many dog owners tell us they notice improved digestion, shinier coats, and better energy levels after switching from dry food to raw. Poppy’s Picnic offers vet-created raw meals made for optimal wellbeing.
16. Should dogs eat organic food?
    Organic options can reduce pesticide exposure and increase nutrient density, though it’s not essential. While not all of our meals are certified organic, Poppy’s Picnic prioritises high-welfare meat and vegetables for quality and sustainability.
17. Can I feed my dog the same food every day?
    Yes, but variety can help prevent boredom and offer a broader nutrient profile. Our Poppy’s Picnic subscription boxes let you mix and match proteins across the week - like Chicken one day, Beef the next, and so on - to keep mealtimes exciting and nutritious.
18. Do dogs need variety in their diet?
    Dogs benefit from protein rotation, especially to reduce the risk of developing intolerances and keep them interested in their meals. With Poppy’s Picnic, you can easily rotate between Chicken, Beef, Duck, Lamb, and Turkey recipes, all nutritionally complete and balanced 
19. Can I feed my dog cat food in an emergency?
    Cat food isn't bad for dogs, but as they are difference species with difference nutritional needs it’s not suitable long-term, e.g. it's too high in protein and fat for dogs. In an emergency, a small amount won’t harm them, but return to balanced dog food as soon as possible.
20. What is the shelf life of frozen dog food?
    Frozen raw dog food can be stored in your freezer for up to 12 months. Once defrosted, meals should be used within 2–3 days and kept refrigerated. We package all products in convenient portions to avoid waste and maintain freshness.
21. What are the essential nutrients dogs need?
    Dogs need a balanced diet of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. At Poppy’s Picnic, our raw meals are complete and balanced, formulated with the help of nutritionists to provide everything your dog needs. We have worked very hard to ensure all the nutrients come from the natural ingredients we use, so we have no need to add supplement
22. How much protein should my dog have?
    Dogs thrive on high-protein diets, especially from animal sources. Our Poppy’s Picnic raw meals are naturally high in quality protein, with each recipe tailored to support overall health.
23. Are carbohydrates bad for dogs?
    Carbs aren’t inherently bad but aren’t essential for dogs. At Poppy’s Picnic, we use small amounts of healthy, digestible carbs like carrot and spinach to add fibre and nutrients - no unnecessary grains or fillers in sight.
24. Do dogs need vitamins and supplements?
    Most healthy dogs don’t need supplements if they’re eating a complete diet. Our ranges includes botanicals and superfoods for naturally enhanced nutrition. We also offer Bone Broth Boosters as an optional extra for added support.
25. What does a balanced dog diet look like?
    A balanced dog diet includes muscle meat, organ meat, bone (for calcium), and vegetables in the right ratios. That’s exactly what we offer at Poppy’s Picnic, our complete meals are FEDIAF-compliant, so you don’t need to worry about DIY calculations.
26. How do I know if my dog is getting enough nutrients?
    Signs of good nutrition include healthy weight, shiny coat, firm stools, and good energy levels. Poppy’s Picnic customers often report improved coat condition, digestion, and vitality after switching to our meals.
27. What are signs of poor dog nutrition?
    Watch out for dull fur, itchy skin, lethargy, weight loss/gain, or digestive issues. If your dog shows any of these, it may be time to review their diet. A switch to Poppy’s Picnic raw food often helps resolve these issues by eliminating allergens and additives. Always speak to your vet if you have concerns about your dogs health.
28. How important is fat in a dog’s diet?
    Fat is a vital energy source and supports healthy skin and coat. Our meals contain natural animal fats, not rendered or synthetic oils, and each recipe is balanced to provide healthy fat levels suited to your dog’s life stage and activity level.
29. Can dogs be vegetarian or vegan?
    Dogs are omnivores but thrive best with animal protein. A plant-based diet can lead to nutritional imbalances. At Poppy’s Picnic, we focus on species-appropriate nutrition through high-quality meat meals to support long-term health.
30. What is the best diet for a senior dog?
    Senior dogs often need fewer calories, more joint support, and easily digestible food. Poppy’s Picnic meals are naturally gentle on the stomach, and our team can help you tailor a feeding plan with suitable protein options like turkey or lamb, plus our Bone Broth Boosters for added support.
31. Do working dogs need a different diet?
    Yes. Working dogs burn more calories and need more protein and fat for energy and recovery. Poppy’s Picnic’s RAW POWER meals are ideal for active and working dogs, with high-protein, high-fat recipes made from British meat and designed to fuel stamina and performance.
32. How does nutrition affect a dog’s coat?
    A healthy coat needs omega fats, protein, and essential nutrients. Many Poppy’s Picnic customers report shinier, softer fur within weeks of switching to our raw food. We use fresh meats and oils that naturally support skin and coat health.
33. Can dog nutrition affect behaviour?
    Poor diets can lead to hyperactivity, sluggishness, or digestive discomfort, all of which affect behaviour. Our fresh, raw meals help balance energy and mood. Plus, we avoid artificial colours and preservatives that can cause behavioural issues in some dogs.
34. Is taurine important in dog food?
    Absolutely. Taurine supports heart health and vision. Meat naturally contains taurine, so our Poppy’s Picnic meals are a great source of this nutrient.
35. What are probiotics and are they good for dogs?
    Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. While not added as a supplement, our raw meals contain ingredients which can promote a healthy gut biome naturally. You can also supplement with our Bone Broth Boosters for an extra digestive boost.
36. What should I feed my new puppy?
    New puppies need food that’s high in energy, protein, and nutrients to fuel rapid growth. Our ranges have been formulated to be suitable for dogs of all ages.
37. When should I switch my puppy to adult food?
    Most puppies switch between 12–18 months, depending on breed. Our team is happy to guide you based on your puppy’s size and growth pattern.
38. How often should I feed my puppy?
    Puppies need frequent meals, usually 3-4 times a day. As your puppy grows, you can reduce feeding frequency to twice a day. Use our feeding calculator for guidance, or drop us a message for guidance.
39. How do I wean a puppy off milk?
    Start introducing finely minced raw food like our Puppy Power Chicken or Beef around 3–4 weeks old, mixed with a little warm water to create a soft consistency. For more info read our RAWPLICITY guide 
40. Can I give treats to my puppy?
    Yes, but treats should be healthy and used in moderation, especially during training. Poppy’s Picnic offers natural training treats made from air-dried meat with no additives. Perfect for rewarding good behaviour while keeping nutrition on track.
41. What are the best treats for training a dog?
    Small, high-value treats work best, especially something meaty and aromatic. Poppy’s Picnic offers bite-sized training treats made from air-dried meat, perfect for rewarding good behaviour without filling them up or disrupting their diet.
42. How do I prevent my dog from becoming overweight?
    Feed appropriate portions, limit treats, and encourage daily exercise. Our feeding calculator on the Poppy’s Picnic website helps you portion meals correctly, and we offer leaner recipes like Turkey for dogs that need to slim down.
43. How can I help my underweight dog gain healthy weight?
    Feed calorie-dense, nutrient-rich food like our RAW POWER Beef or Lamb, and increase portions gradually. You can also add Bone Broth Boosters for extra nourishment. 
44. What should I feed a dog with allergies?
    Consult with your vet if you feel your dog has allergies, who can help identify the specific root of the problem
45. How can I tell if my dog has a food intolerance?
    Common signs include itching, upset stomach, ear infections, and loose stools. Switching to a raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic helps pinpoint triggers and soothe symptoms. 
46. What should I feed a dog with a sensitive stomach?
    Gentle, minimally processed food like raw turkey or chicken is ideal. Poppy’s Picnic’s meals are made from very simple ingredients making them easier to digest. We also recommend our Bone Broth for added gut support.
47. Can dog food help with joint problems?
    Yes, look for meals with natural anti-inflammatory ingredients and the right calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Our raw meals can help support joint health through natural nutrition, and you can enhance this with our Bone Broth Boosters for added collagen from bone marrow
48. What’s the best food for dogs with pancreatitis?
    Dogs with pancreatitis need low-fat diets. We recommend speaking with your vet, then using our low-fat Turkey recipes, which are suitable for sensitive dogs. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor closely.
49. What are signs of a good dog food brand?
    Transparency, quality ingredients, vet and DEFRA approval, and excellent customer feedback. Poppy’s Picnic ticks all these boxes, with DEFRA-approved recipes, high-welfare meat, and a reputation for transforming dogs’ health and happiness. Don't take our word for it... read our many reviews from happy customers, with two legs and four
50. Why choose raw food over cooked or processed food?
    Raw food is closer to what dogs evolved to eat, unprocessed, nutrient-rich, and easy to digest. At Poppy’s Picnic, we make raw feeding safe, simple, and delicious with balanced recipes and friendly support, so you can feed with confidence.
51. Can puppies eat adult dog food?
    Yes, if they are labelled as food which is suitable for dogs of all ages. 
52. How can I stop my dog eating too fast?
    Use a slow feeder bowl, feed smaller portions more frequently, or try meals in meatball form, like our POWER BALLS, which help regulate eating speed. They’re great for portion control and slowing down speedy eaters.
53. What food should I feed a pregnant or nursing dog?
    Pregnant and nursing dogs need more energy and nutrients. For more info read our RAWPLICITY guide 
54. How do I store raw dog food properly?
    Store raw meals in the freezer and defrost portions in the fridge as needed. Once defrosted, use within 4 days. Poppy’s Picnic meals come in convenient 450g packs or 30g meatballs for easy freezer storage and minimal waste.
55. Can I refreeze raw dog food?
    No, once raw food has been fully defrosted for use, it shouldn’t be refrozen. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
56. Should I feed my dog bones?
    Raw bones (never cooked!) can help clean teeth and provide nutrients.  Always supervise and ensure the bone is size-appropriate for your dog. Our RAW POWER meals have ground bone included as it is an excellent source of key minerals, and we have replaced the bone with eggshell in our cookable MIGHTY MINCE and POWER BALLS ranges
57. Are supplements necessary with raw feeding?
    Not if you’re feeding a balanced complete raw diet. All Poppy’s Picnic complete meals are FEDIAF-compliant, meaning they include the correct ratios of muscle meat, organ, bone, and nutrients... no additional supplements needed.
58. How can I improve my dog’s digestion?
    Customers tell us that switch to a simple, natural diet free from fillers and artificial additives has improved their dog's digestion. Our raw meals are gentle on sensitive stomachs and promote firm, pick-up-able-poos. You can also add Bone Broth Boosters to soothe and support gut health.
59. What’s the best food for small breed dogs?
    Small dogs benefit from easy-to-chew, portion-controlled food. Our meals are finely minced and our POWER BALLS are great for tiny tums... plus we offer advice on exact feeding amounts by weight.  
60. What should I feed a large breed puppy?
    Large breed puppies need food that supports steady, controlled growth. Our Puppy Power meals are ideal, as they’re balanced with the correct calcium-phosphorus ratio and energy levels to help prevent joint and growth issues. For more info read our RAWPLICITY guide 
61. Can I mix raw food with kibble?
    You can, and many people do as it's more convenient for them. Our POWER BALLS are ideally suited for this as you can defrost just one or two and add them into a bowl of kibble.  
62. How do I travel with raw dog food?
    Use insulated cool bags and ice packs, and take pre-portioned frozen meals. Our POWER BALLS are perfect for travel, they thaw quickly and are easy to store. For longer trips, consider our air-dried treats as a backup.
63. What’s the difference between complete and complementary raw food?
    Complete meals contain all the nutrients your dog needs. Complementary meals should be balanced with other ingredients. Poppy’s Picnic offers both, but our complete ranges - RAW POWER, MIGHTY MINCE and POWER BALLS - take out the guesswork.
64. What time of day is best to feed dogs?
    Dogs do well on consistent routines, usually once or twice a day. At Poppy’s Picnic, we recommend splitting meals morning and evening, especially for puppies or dogs with high energy needs. Consistency supports digestion and appetite. 
65. How can I reduce bad breath in my dog?
    Poor diet is a common culprit. Feeding raw helps naturally clean teeth and improve gut health. Plus our crunchy CANINE CLEANERS are an ideal tooth improver 
66. Is wet food better than dry food for dogs?
    Wet food is often more palatable and hydrating, but raw food offers all those benefits too. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals give dogs the moisture, texture, and taste they love
67. How long does it take to see results from switching to raw?
    Many owners report shinier coats, firmer poos, and more energy within 1–3 weeks. Our customers frequently notice visible changes quickly after switching to Poppy’s Picnic, including improved digestion, less itching, and better moods.
68. What should a dog’s poo look like on raw food?
    Small, firm, and easy to pick up... that’s the goal. Raw-fed dogs usually produce less waste because they absorb more nutrients. If your dog’s stool is loose, too dry, or frequent, our team can help adjust portion size or protein.
69. Do older dogs benefit from raw feeding?
    Yes! Raw feeding can help with mobility, digestion, and coat quality in senior dogs. Our gently balanced recipes are easy to chew and packed with joint-supporting nutrients. Many senior pups thrive on our meals.
70. Can dogs get bored of the same food?
    They can do. That’s why Poppy’s Picnic offers a variety of proteins - Chicken, Beef, Duck, Turkey, Lamb - so you can rotate flavours and keep mealtimes exciting. Variety can also help prevent food sensitivities and supports balanced nutrition. But we know some dogs who are super happy to eat the same variety of complete food every day!
71. What are the benefits of feeding my dog raw food?
    Raw food can supports improved digestion, shinier coats, fresher breath, smaller poos, and improved energy. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals are made from British meat, gently prepared to retain nutrients and free from fillers or artificial nasties.
72. Can raw feeding help with anal gland issues?
    Yes! Firmer poos from raw diets help naturally express the anal glands. Many owners report fewer issues after switching to Poppy’s Picnic. If your dog’s stools are still too soft, we can recommend recipes with more bone content for added firmness.
73. Is raw food safe for dogs?
    Absolutely. Like with all raw meat - just the same as the meat we prepare for ourselves - it's perfectly safe when when stored, handled and prepared correctly. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals are made in a DEFRA-approved facility, using human-grade meat and strict hygiene standards to ensure safety for both pets and owners. We also hold the UK Pet Food Raw Safety Standard.
74. What’s the best way to transition to raw food?
    Most dogs switch immediately. For a few dogs it may be necessary to gradually over 5–7 days, starting with 25% raw and increasing daily. We offer a handy Transition Guide and tailored support if needed. For more info read our RAWPLICITY guide 
75. How long can raw dog food sit out?
    Ideally, serve it within 20–30 minutes to prevent spoiling, especially in warm environments. If your dog doesn’t finish, refrigerate immediately. Our raw food is designed to be served fresh, and gobbled up quickly!
76. Do dogs drink less on raw food?
    Yes, raw meals have a high moisture content, so dogs naturally drink less. It’s perfectly normal. Just be sure fresh water is always available. Many customers notice their dogs are less thirsty after switching to Poppy’s Picnic.
77. Is raw feeding more expensive?
    Not necessarily. While the cost per meal may be higher than some dry foods, it's no more expensive than other high protein dog foods. Our customers report saving on vet bills, supplements, and grooming thanks to better overall health. We offer bundles and subscriptions to help manage costs long-term.
78. How do I portion raw meals correctly?
    We base portions on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. Use our feeding calculator for guidance, or drop us a message for a custom plan. Our POWER BALLS make it easy to measure meals without weighing.
79. Can I feed my dog a mix of proteins?
    Yes! In fact, rotating proteins like Beef, Duck, Turkey, and Lamb gives your dog variety and a more rounded nutrient profile. Poppy’s Picnic meals are designed to be interchangeable for easy protein rotation.
80. What is the prey model diet?
    The prey model mimics whole-animal feeding: 80% meat, 10% bone, and 10% organs. At Poppy’s Picnic, we offer balanced meals which are based on this model, with added veggies in some ranges for fibre and phytonutrients, making them complete and more digestible.
81. How can I tell if my dog is thriving on their food?
    Look for bright eyes, a shiny coat, small firm poos, steady energy, and eagerness at mealtimes. Most Poppy’s Picnic pups show visible signs of improvement within weeks, from better digestion to calmer behaviour and glossier coats.
82. Can I feed my dog vegetables?
    Yes, in moderation. While dogs are carnivores, they benefit from vegetable fibre and phytonutrients. Our ranges include a small portion of veg, finely minced for digestibility.
83. Should I feed my dog fruit?
    Some fruits like apple, blueberry, and banana are safe and nutritious in small amounts. We don’t add fruit to our core meals, but you can use it as a natural treat alongside Poppy’s Picnic meals - just avoid grapes, raisins, and citrus.
84. How do I stop my dog begging for food?
    Feed high-satiety, nutrient-dense meals like our raw food, dogs feel more satisfied and less likely to scavenge. Stick to consistent feeding times, avoid sharing your own food, and use our training treats only for rewards.
85. What should I do if my dog won’t eat?
    Check for underlying health issues first. If they're just fussy, try a different protein - like Duck or Lamb - or our Bone Broth Boosters to enhance the aroma. Warming the food slightly (not cooking!) can also tempt picky eaters.
86. Is it okay to switch flavours of dog food often?
    Yes, variety is great! Poppy’s Picnic meals are designed to be easily rotated between proteins, helping prevent intolerance and keeping mealtime exciting. Just switch gradually if your dog has a sensitive tummy.
87. Can I feed my dog fish?
    Absolutely. Fish is great for omega-3 fatty acids and joint health. While Poppy’s Picnic doesn’t currently offer a fish-based meal, you can add our fishy SUPER SPRINKLES to any meal 
88. What’s the difference between BARF and raw feeding?
    BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) includes meat, bone, offal, and veg, while pure raw feeding might exclude vegetables.  At Poppy’s Picnic, we offer balanced meals which are based on this model, with added extras
89. What meat is best for dogs with allergies?
    It depends on the allergy. Speak with your vet to find out the best diet for your dog.
90. Should dogs eat every day?
    Yes, dogs thrive on daily feeding, usually split into one or two meals. Regular meals help maintain blood sugar and routine. 
91. Is insect protein good for dogs?
    Insect protein is an emerging trend, rich in amino acids and eco-friendly. While Poppy’s Picnic focuses on natural raw meat diets, we support innovation in sustainable pet nutrition, though we stick to what nature intended for now.
92. How do I store raw or frozen dog food safely?
    Keep it frozen until ready to use. Defrost portions in the fridge overnight and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Poppy’s Picnic meals come in handy portioned packs and POWER BALLS, making storage and handling super easy.
93. Is local dog food better than imported brands?
    In terms of food air miles and carbon footprint, absolutely. Local food reduces transport impact and often ensures fresher ingredients. All of Poppy’s Picnic’s meals are made right here in the UK using British meat, supporting farmers and reducing carbon pawprints.
94. Should I be concerned about dog food recalls?
    Yes. That’s why transparency matters. Poppy’s Picnic meals are made in small batches in DEFRA-approved kitchens, with full ingredient traceability and safety protocols. We publish everything clearly on our packaging and website.
95. Can I recycle my dog food packaging?
    Our packaging is eco-conscious and recyclable wherever possible, and we’re always looking to improve sustainability. Check individual pack labels for local recycling compatibility, and sign up for updates as we roll out more green options.
96. Can food affect my dog’s behaviour?
    Yes, just like it can with humans - think of how much additives, sugars, and poor nutrition can cause hyperactivity or lethargy in humans. A balanced raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic often leads to calmer behaviour, better focus during training, and fewer mood swings.
97. Should I use food for training?
    Definitely! Positive reinforcement works best with small, high-reward treats. Try our natural meat treats, which are low in fat, super tasty, and just the right size for consistent training without overfeeding.
98. What are high-value treats for dogs?
    High-value treats are usually meat-based, aromatic, and soft or chewy. Poppy’s Picnic treats, like our air-dried liver or training bites, are perfect for high-reward situations like recall or heel work.
99. How do I stop resource guarding around food?
    Feed in a calm space, avoid interfering during meals, and work with a trainer if needed. Feeding high-satisfaction meals like our raw food can reduce anxiety around food, especially when paired with consistent routines.
100. Should I feed my dog before or after a walk?
     It’s safest to feed after a walk, especially for deep-chested breeds prone to bloat. Give your dog time to cool down, then serve their meal. Our raw meals are easier to digest, but spacing out food and exercise is still best practice.