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Hip dysplasia. It’s one of the most talked-about, feared, and misunderstood conditions in dogs, especially large and working breeds. But what if we told you there’s compelling research suggesting that what you feed your dog during puppyhood could make a big difference? Even better, what if that research showed that raw feeding significantly reduces the risk of developing hip dysplasia?
In 2014, Finnish veterinary researcher Sari Grundström conducted a study that might just change the way you think about early nutrition. Her licentiate thesis, titled “Early weaning increases the risk of canine hip dysplasia in dogs”, dives into the connections between diet, environment, and the development of hip dysplasia in puppies. And yes, it turns out raw food plays a starring role.
Let’s break it down.
Hip dysplasia is a condition where a dog’s hip joints don’t form properly. Over time, this misalignment causes pain, stiffness, arthritis, and reduced mobility. For dogs that are supposed to run, play, or work for a living, it’s a life-altering problem.
It’s long been considered a mostly genetic condition. Got a breed prone to it? Sorry. It’s just bad luck. But newer research, including Grundström’s study, suggests that while genetics may load the gun, environment and nutrition pull the trigger.
Grundström examined over 600 dogs, primarily focusing on Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, breeds notoriously susceptible to hip dysplasia. The dogs were split into two major feeding groups during the critical first few months of life: one group fed commercial dry food, and another fed raw, unprocessed meat-based diets.
The results? Stark.
Dogs who were fed a raw diet early in life had a significantly lower incidence of hip dysplasia compared to those fed dry food. In fact, the risk of hip dysplasia increased by over 300% in dogs fed commercial dry food during the critical weaning period (6–8 weeks up to 6 months).
Let that sink in.
According to the data, feeding raw from puppyhood was one of the most protective factors against developing the condition. Grundström went on to conclude that nutrition, particularly raw feeding, may be just as important as genetics in determining a dog’s long-term joint health.
When dogs are young and still developing, their bones, joints, and connective tissues need very specific nutrients, not just in the right quantities, but in the right forms.
Raw food offers:
Compare that to a typical kibble, which is made using high-heat extrusion and loaded with carbohydrate-based fillers, and it’s not hard to see why raw-fed pups fare better.
Another key finding in Grundström’s research was the timing of weaning. Puppies that were weaned early, especially those transitioned straight onto dry food, were at a much higher risk of developing hip dysplasia later on. It turns out that feeding a natural, raw diet during the most formative window of a dog’s development is absolutely crucial.
Think of it like this: would you expect a child to grow up strong and healthy if they were weaned off breast milk and put straight onto ultra-processed snacks? Of course not. The same principle applies to dogs. Early diet shapes everything.
Preventing hip dysplasia is one thing, but what about dogs who already show signs of joint issues?
While no diet can “cure” skeletal problems, raw feeding can still support overall joint health by reducing inflammation, maintaining a healthy weight, and delivering bioavailable nutrients that promote repair. For dogs living with hip dysplasia, every bit of support matters, and feeding species-appropriate, nutrient-dense meals is one of the best things you can do.
Let’s be honest. The commercial dog food industry has spent decades convincing owners and professionals alike that kibble is “complete and balanced.” And yes, many vets still recommend it, but Grundström’s study, alongside other emerging research, is shifting that view.
It’s worth noting that Finland, where the study was conducted, has a much higher rate of raw feeding acceptance than the UK. Their vets are often more familiar with the benefits and how to support owners feeding raw properly. But, science is making its way here too. Slowly.
And you don’t have to wait for the tide to turn.
If you want to support strong bones, healthy joints, and reduce the risk of hip dysplasia later in life, the answer is yes.
A raw diet isn’t just about avoiding nasty ingredients, it’s about feeding in a way that aligns with a dog’s biology. At Rude Dog Food, our complete raw meals are designed with this exact thinking in mind. We source everything from British farms, mince it through a 10mm grinder for digestibility, and include the right balance of meat, bone, organ, and vegetation (no filler, no nonsense).
And if you’re worried about doing it wrong, we’ve already done the balancing for you.
It’s never too late to make a change. While early-life nutrition plays the biggest role in prevention, switching to raw at any age can help improve your dog’s weight, digestion, coat, energy levels, and potentially reduce inflammation that aggravates joint issues.
Whether you’ve got an eight-week-old pup or an eight-year-old rescue, feeding raw is a decision your dog will thank you for.
Grundström’s study should be required reading for any breeder, dog owner, or vet. It’s real research, done well, with powerful implications. And the takeaway is simple: what you feed your puppy matters. A lot.
Feeding raw dog food isn’t a trend. It’s a return to common sense. Dogs are animals, and animals were never meant to eat ultra-processed cereal pellets. If you want your pup to grow strong, stay mobile, and live a long, healthy life, start with what’s in their bowl.
You can read the full study here, or just skip the reading and grab a bundle of our raw meals. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about food, it’s about giving your dog the best chance at a healthy, pain-free life.
Ready to start raw? Let’s get you sorted.
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