One of the most common questions we get about Pip Eats is whether our meals should be served raw or cooked. Honestly? It's one of my favourite questions — because the fact that there even is an answer is something pretty special about what we've created. Here's what I hear most, and what I want every Pip parent to know.
Can Pip Eats be served raw, or does it need to be cooked?
Both. Pip Eats meals are designed to be fed raw — that's the gold standard for fresh, whole-food nutrition — but they can also be gently cooked if that suits you and your dog better. Every recipe is nutritionally balanced by our vet nutritionist, so whichever way you serve them, your dog is getting everything they need. Real food, real love, and the science to back it up.
Wait — I thought you couldn't cook raw dog food. Why is Pip Eats different?
This is the question I love most, because the answer really does set us apart. Most raw dog foods are made with crushed bone as their calcium source. Bone changes structure when it's cooked — it can splinter and become dangerous. That's why so many raw brands say do not cook.
Pip Eats is different. We use organic calcium instead of crushed bone. That means our meals are completely safe to warm up, pan-cook, or air fry — giving you a flexibility that's genuinely rare in the fresh dog food world. It's a deliberate formulation decision, and one I'm really proud of.
Is raw feeding safe for small dogs?
Yes — when the food is properly formulated, which Pip Eats is. Our recipes are developed with a vet nutritionist and meet AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Every heart-shaped patty is made from a single Australian protein source, with no fillers, no preservatives, and no nasties hiding in a long ingredients list.
Small dogs do have smaller mouths and digestive systems, which is exactly why the quality and balance of what they eat matters so much. Real food, done properly, is as good as it gets.
How do I warm Pip Eats up? What's the best method?
A few options work really well — choose whatever suits your routine:
- Pan with a little water: Our go-to. Add a splash of water to a small pan, warm on low heat, and the patty gently heats through. You end up with a little broth your dog will go wild for.
- Air fryer: A quick, easy option that works beautifully. Low temperature, short time — you're warming, not cooking through.
- Microwave: Fine in a pinch — just go low and slow. Warm in 10-second bursts and check the temperature. You want warm, not hot. Always test with your finger before serving.
One rule across all methods: never serve food that's hot to the touch. Aim for body temperature or just above — like a cosy bowl, not a steaming one.
Does warming up the food change the nutrition?
Gentle warming has minimal effect on the overall nutritional profile. You'll see some reduction in certain heat-sensitive vitamins — that's true of any fresh food, human or canine — but the core nutrition, protein, and essential fatty acids remain intact when you're warming rather than fully cooking at high heat.
If your dog prefers it warm and it means they eat better and more enthusiastically, the benefit absolutely outweighs any minor difference. A dog who eats well beats a dog who doesn't eat at all.
What about summer — how should I serve it in warmer months?
Straight from the fridge, or even at room temperature after a short thaw, works perfectly in summer. Real food is genuinely flexible that way — it meets your dog where they are, season to season.
Some of our Pip parents tell us their dogs love a partially thawed patty as a cool lick treat on a hot day. We'd never officially recommend feeding frozen (it's not something our vet nutritionist endorses as a regular meal method), but the sentiment is sweet — and it speaks to how versatile real food can be.
My dog is fussy. Will they have a preference?
Almost certainly, yes — and it's worth trying both to find out. In our experience, fussy dogs often respond better to a slightly warmed meal. The warmth releases the natural aroma of the ingredients, which can make a world of difference for a dog with a small appetite or a sensitive nose.
If your dog is leaving food in the bowl, try warming it gently for a few days. You might be surprised.
How do I transition my dog to Pip Eats if they've only ever had dry food?
Slowly and warmly — literally. We recommend starting with a 25% Pip Eats / 75% existing food mix for the first few days, then gradually shifting the ratio over one to two weeks. Warming the Pip Eats portion during this transition can help entice hesitant dogs who aren't used to the smell and texture of real food.
Most dogs come around quickly. Real food tends to speak for itself.
Where can I get more personalised feeding support?
Two great options:
- Your local Pip Eats retailer: Our stockists know our products inside out and can help you choose the right protein and feeding approach for your dog. Pop in and ask — they love talking real food.
- Join ClubPip: Our regular delivery members get ongoing support from the Pip team, plus perks, tips, and early access to new recipes. It's the best way to keep your dog eating well, consistently — without the guesswork.
Real food is flexible. Real food is seasonal. And with Pip Eats, real food is always on the menu — whether it's a warm winter bowl or a cool summer treat. That's something I'm genuinely proud we've built.
— Zoe
