Feeding Guide

Raw Feeding


Transitioning your dog to a raw diet 
involves a gradual shift to allow their digestive system to adjust. You can choose between a prepared, pre-balanced commercial raw diet or a homemade one, but homemade requires careful planning to ensure complete nutrition. For all raw diets, strict hygiene is critical to prevent bacterial contamination.
Choosing a raw diet: commercial vs. homemade
Commercial raw food
  • Convenience: Many companies offer pre-made, balanced frozen or freeze-dried meals that are simple to thaw and serve.
  • Complete and balanced: Reputable brands follow standards from organizations like FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry) to ensure meals contain all necessary nutrients, including the correct ratio of muscle meat, offal, and bone.
  • Safety: Some companies use methods like High-Pressure Processing (HPP) to neutralize potential pathogens.
Homemade raw food
  • Control over ingredients: You can select all ingredients yourself, which is beneficial for dogs with specific allergies or sensitivities.
  • Requires expertise: Formulating a nutritionally complete and balanced diet at home can be challenging and requires extensive research. Without proper ratios of protein, organs, and bone, your dog could develop nutrient deficiencies.
  • Follow established ratios: A common guideline is the 80/10/10 ratio: 80% muscle meat, 10% raw edible bone, and 10% organs (half of which should be liver).

Step-by-step guide to transitioning your dog
There are two main methods for introducing a raw diet: a slower, gradual transition and a rapid "cold turkey" swap.
Gradual transition (recommended for most dogs)
This method is ideal for older dogs, those with sensitive stomachs, or those with existing gut issues.
  • Days 1–3: Feed 75% of your dog's current food and 25% raw food.
  • Days 4–6: Move to a 50/50 mix of old and new food.
  • Days 7–9: Feed 75% raw food and 25% of their old food.
  • Day 10 onwards: Your dog should now be eating 100% raw food.
Rapid transition (for healthy, young dogs)
This method is for dogs with strong digestive systems and no history of dietary issues.
  • Final kibble meal: Serve their last meal of old food one evening.
  • Start raw: The following morning, serve their first meal of 100% raw food.
  • Consider fasting: For picky eaters, some owners find that fasting their dog for 24 hours can motivate them to try the new food.
Safe handling and preparation
Proper hygiene is the most important part of raw feeding.
  • Keep food frozen: Store raw pet food in the freezer and keep it separate from your family's food.
  • Thaw safely: Thaw raw food in a sealed container on the bottom shelf of your fridge to prevent cross-contamination. Never thaw it on a counter or in warm water.
  • Clean everything: Use separate cutting boards, utensils, and containers for your dog's food. Wash all surfaces and bowls that come into contact with raw meat with hot, soapy water.
  • Wash your hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw food, your dog's dishes, or their waste.

What to expect during the transition
  • Initial detox: Your dog's body may go through a "detox" period as its digestive system adjusts. This can cause temporary symptoms like loose stools, vomiting, bad breath, or gas.
  • Firm, smaller stools: Raw-fed dogs typically produce smaller, firmer, and less smelly waste because there are fewer indigestible fillers.
  • Reduced water intake: Raw food has a high natural moisture content, so your dog may drink less. Always ensure fresh water is available.
  • Increased energy: Many owners report more stable energy levels, a shinier coat, and improved skin health.

Important considerations
  • Talk to your vet: While many dogs thrive on a raw diet, it is not suitable for all dogs, especially those with certain health conditions. Consult with your vet before making a major dietary change.
  • Know what to avoid: Never give your dog cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause injury. Some foods toxic to dogs, like grapes and onions, should also be avoided.