Raw vs. Gently Cooked Dog Food: Which Is Better for Your Dog?

When it comes to feeding your dog a fresh and wholesome diet, two options often rise to the top: raw dog food and gently cooked dog food. Both aim to move away from highly processed kibble and canned food, but they approach nutrition very differently.

At CORE K9, we believe in the power of fresh, real ingredients—but we also believe that how you prepare those ingredients matters just as much. That’s why our meals are gently cooked, not raw.

In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between raw and gently cooked dog food so you can make the best choice for your pup’s health.

What Is Raw Dog Food?

Raw dog food usually consists of uncooked meat, organs, bones, and sometimes raw vegetables or fruits. Some pet parents prepare it at home, while others buy commercially available frozen raw meals.

The philosophy behind raw feeding is rooted in what a dog’s ancestors—the wolves—ate in the wild: raw prey. Advocates claim it’s more natural and biologically appropriate.

What Is Gently Cooked Dog Food?

Gently cooked dog food is made from real, whole-food ingredients like meat, vegetables, and grains—then cooked at low temperatures to preserve nutrients while eliminating harmful bacteria.

CORE K9 meals are cooked just enough to protect your pup from foodborne illness, without destroying the natural goodness of the ingredients. We portion, vacuum seal, and freeze the meals to lock in freshness—no preservatives, no high-heat processing.

Raw vs. Gently Cooked: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Why CORE K9 Chooses Gently Cooked Over Raw

We get it—raw food sounds "natural." But at CORE K9, we’re all about safe, nutritious, and practical food for your dog’s everyday life.

Here’s why we prefer gently cooked:

1. Safety First

Raw diets carry a higher risk of bacteria like E. coli, listeria, and salmonella—which can make both dogs and humans sick. This is especially risky if you have children, seniors, or immunocompromised people at home.

CORE K9 meals are gently cooked to a precise temperature that kills pathogens without compromising the integrity of the food.

2. Easier on the Tummy

Raw bones and dense proteins can be hard for some dogs to digest, especially those with sensitive stomachs or senior dogs.

Our gently cooked recipes are formulated to be digestible, soothing, and nutrient-rich, helping with stool consistency, gas, and overall gut health.

3. Nutritional Consistency

Homemade or store-bought raw meals often vary in nutrient content. Without careful formulation, your dog may miss out on critical vitamins and minerals.

CORE K9 recipes are:

• Formulated by experts

• Complete & balanced

• Enriched with a custom vitamin mix

You get peace of mind knowing your dog’s nutrition is spot on—every single meal.

4. Convenience

Feeding raw means weighing, mixing, thawing, and cleaning up with extreme care to avoid contamination.

CORE K9 is as easy as:

• Thaw

• Portion

• Serve

We do the prep, cooking, and portioning—so you can spend more time with your dog and less time in the kitchen.

What About the “Ancestral Diet” Argument?

While dogs descended from wolves, their digestive systems have evolved over thousands of years. Unlike wild wolves, dogs today benefit from moderate carbs, cooked proteins, and human-grade supplements to help them thrive—not just survive.

Gently cooked dog food respects your dog’s natural needs—without the raw risks.

How CORE K9 Supports All Life Stages

Whether you’re feeding a puppy, an adult dog, or a senior with dietary sensitivities, CORE K9 is a flexible and safe solution.

Our recipes include:

• Beef & Barley – Great for active dogs needing extra protein

• Chicken & Lentil – Lean and light, perfect for weight management

• Lamb & Quinoa – Rich in iron and healthy fats

• Turkey & Sweet Potato – Gentle and allergy-friendly

Each one is gently cooked and vacuum-sealed for freshness and convenience.

Customer Testimonial Spotlight

"I used to feed raw, but after one too many digestive issues, I switched to CORE K9. My dog LOVES it, and I feel so much better knowing it’s safe and balanced!"
— Heather M., Charlotte, NC

Making the Switch from Raw to Gently Cooked

Transitioning your dog from raw to CORE K9? Great! We recommend easing into the new meals over 5–7 days to avoid digestive upset.

Start with 25% CORE K9 + 75% raw, then increase CORE K9 by 25% every 1–2 days.

Need help? Our team is happy to guide you through the process.

Final Thoughts: Choose What’s Right—Not Just What’s Trendy

Raw feeding has its place, but it’s not for every household—or every dog. Gently cooked dog food offers the nutritional benefits of fresh food with the safety and convenience pet parents deserve.

At CORE K9, we take the guesswork (and risk) out of feeding real food. Your pup gets clean, nourishing meals that are easy on their system and delicious to their taste buds.

Ready to try CORE K9? Visit www.corek-9.com and explore our gently cooked meals made with love.