HOW RAW FEEDING HELPED ERIK BECOME THE PERFECT SUPPORT DOG

When Jack brought Erik home at just 8 weeks old, he quickly noticed that something wasn’t quite right. Erik was producing smelly, oversized waste, suffered from extremely noxious wind, and for a young Golden Retriever his coat looked dull with a surprising amount of hair loss.

Although Erik’s mum had been raw-fed during pregnancy, after a C-section the vet (unfamiliar with raw feeding) advised switching her to kibble. As a result, Erik and his littermates were also weaned onto kibble, and the problems soon began to show.

Jack knew something had to change, both for Erik’s health and for his future as a support dog.

And it wasn’t just the health concerns, as a young puppy, Erik was beginning to develop a number of behavioural issues that were proving difficult for Jack to manage. Recall was unreliable, and Jack didn’t feel confident letting him off the lead, even when no one else was around.

Mealtimes were stressful, with Erik constantly begging and barking for food, while at home he found it hard to rest, following Jack everywhere. Visitors were another challenge, as Erik would jump up and bark for attention, making it difficult to hold a conversation. Walks were far from enjoyable; Erik lunged at people and dogs, leaving Jack anxious about taking him into new environments such as the woods, the beach, or busy towns. Even short periods of separation were tough, with Erik struggling to relax when left alone.

After carrying out thorough research, Jack chose ProDog’s raw puppy food range over other brands. He was impressed by the quality ingredients and nutritional balance.

With advice from our Canine Nutritionist, Alison Frost, Erik was transitioned gradually from kibble to raw in just four days.

Jack recalls:

Jack also added variety with raw eggs, chicken wings, bone broth, and sprats. For training, Erik’s favourite treat is ProDog’s Black Pudding Natural Dog Treats, a reward he adores.

The transformation was remarkable:

Health Improvements

Poop became small, firm, and easy to pick up

The terrible gas disappeared

Coat changed from dull to glossy and soft, so much so people often stop to comment

Far less shedding

Sparkling white teeth (“you could almost see them glow in the dark!”)

Clear skin and no sign of Erik the dog constantly scratching (a common issue with Golden Retrievers)

Behavioural Breakthroughs

With support from ProDog’s Canine Behaviourist, Caroline Spencer, Erik’s behaviour turned a corner:

Eating consistently again after a fussy spell – for more help and advice on this, check out our Fussy Dog Guide

Walking calmly on a slack lead, no more lunging at people or dogs

Reliable recall and focus on Jack

Settled enough to relax alone, instead of barking or following constantly

Visitors can now arrive without being jumped on or barked at

Relaxed trips to the vet and even shopping trips for Jack!

Jack describes the change as life-changing:

“Our connection blossomed. Walks are now a joy. Erik is calmer, happier, and more focused on me than ever before.”

According to Alison Frost, Head Canine Nutritionist at ProDog Raw:

A True Transformation

Today, Erik is the picture of health and happiness. His glossy coat, sparkling eyes and calm focus are a testament to the power of raw feeding, supported every step of the way by the ProDog Raw team.

Jack sums it up best:

“ProDog Raw is exceptional! They don’t just provide great food, they provide genuine care and expert support. Erik’s health, behaviour, and our bond are stronger than I could have ever hoped for.”

Since switching to raw, Erik now produces firm, easy-to-pick-up poops and no longer suffers from the smelly wind that once plagued him. His coat is soft and shiny, his teeth are brilliantly white, his skin is clear, and his overall behaviour has become calmer and more focused.

If you are struggling with a puppy or dog with diarrhea and foul-smelling wind, a lacklustre coat, or behaviours that feel impossible to manage, their diet may be a contributing factor!

Switching to raw can make all the difference.

Curious what raw feeding could unlock for your dog?

Start with our Beginners Guide to Raw Feeding

Prefer tailored advice?

Get FREE personalised feeding support from our expert nutritionists and behaviourists. We’re here to help.

Erik’s story is proof: with the right diet and the right support, even the trickiest starts can transform. He’s not just growing, he’s thriving.