Switching to raw feeding is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make for your dog’s health and well-being. At Embark On Raw, we understand that feeding raw might feel a little daunting at first—especially when it comes to handling and storing meals correctly. One of the most common questions we hear is: How to defrost raw dog food?
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best and safest methods to defrost raw dog food, helping you maintain nutritional value while keeping mealtimes stress-free.
Why Proper Defrosting Matters
Raw dog food is packed full of natural goodness—vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes. Defrosting your dog’ s food properly not only ensures they get the full benefit of every meal, but also helps prevent harmful bacteria growth that could arise from incorrect thawing methods.
The Best Way to Defrost Raw Dog Food
The safest and most effective way to defrost raw dog food is in the fridge. Here’s how:
1. Plan ahead – Take the portion you need from the freezer and place it in the fridge 12–24 hours before feeding time.
2. Use a sealed container – Always pop the food into a clean, sealed container or bowl with a cover to avoid any cross-contamination with your own food.
3. Keep it cool – Keep the fridge at or below 4°C (40°F) and store the raw food on the bottom shelf to prevent any accidental drips onto other items.
Can You Defrost Raw Dog Food at Room Temperature?
Raw dog food is packed full of natural goodness—vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes. Defrosting your dog’s food properly not only ensures they get the full benefit of every meal, but also helps prevent harmful bacteria growth that could arise from incorrect thawing methods. We don’t recommend it. Defrosting raw dog food at room temperature can cause the outer layer to warm up too quickly, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply, while the centre may still be frozen.
In a Hurry? Use Cold Water
If you’ve forgotten to defrost in advance, you can safely speed up the process using cold water:
● Place the raw food (still in its sealed packaging) into a bowl of cold water.
● Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold.
● Never use hot water, as it can partially cook the food and destroy valuable nutrients.
This method should only be used when absolutely necessary and food should be fed immediately after thawing.
Can You Microwave Raw Dog Food?
No, we don’t advise it. Microwaving raw dog food can partially cook it, which goes against the principles of raw feeding and may alter the nutritional profile of the food, including making any bone content brittle. The uneven heating may also leave cold spots that harbour bacteria.
How Long Can You Keep Defrosted Raw Dog Food?
Once defrosted, raw dog food should be kept in the fridge and used within 2–3 days. Always check the packaging for brand-specific guidance. At Embark On Raw, we also recommend thoroughly washing your hands, bowls, and surfaces after handling raw food to maintain hygiene and safety.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to defrost raw dog food properly is an essential part of your raw feeding journey. By following the steps above, you’ll ensure your pet receives all the natural benefits of their raw diet—safely and with complete peace of mind. At Embark On Raw, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting out or already reaping the benefits of raw feeding, our trusted brands and expert guidance are here to help your dog thrive.