You’ve decided to switch your dog to a fresh, raw diet and want to get off on the best foot; this guide will give you simple steps to make the change with confidence.
How do I introduce raw food to my dog?
We recommend you introduce raw food slowly over approximately 2 weeks. A gradual switch helps minimise any potential for stomach upsets which can sometimes happen if a diet change is sudden. Keep an eye on them and monitor their stools during the transition period. If they’re having loose bowel movements, just slow down the introduction and give their tummy time to catch up.
Here’s a guide:
| Day | New Diet | Old Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1–3 | 20% | 80% |
| Day 4–6 | 40% | 60% |
| Day 7–9 | 60% | 40% |
| Day 10–12 | 80% | 20% |
| Day 12+ | 100% | 0% |
Please remember that this is just a guide, don’t worry about getting this exactly right. Your dog won’t notice if you serve them 22% and 78%. Just work towards slowly swapping your dog’s food over a two-week period.
A slow introduction to a new food is particularly important for senior dogs, especially if they are going from a highly processed diet (eg kibble) to a raw, fresh diet. Senior dogs need a gradual introduction to keep tummy troubles to a minimum.
Same goes for picky eaters or dogs with sensitive stomachs. If you had been eating processed fast foods all your life, and were presented a meal with fresh, unprocessed, uncooked ingredients… it may be a shock and might take a bit of getting used to.
How much should I feed my dog?
We’ve got feeding guidelines to get you started but remember: every dog is different. Age, breed, size, energy level – all of this plays a part. Start with the recommended amount, then keep an eye on their weight and adjust if needed.
The best way to know if you’re on track is to keep an eye on their weight. You should be able to feel their ribs without digging around too much, and they should have a nice waist when you look from above. If they’re getting a bit round, feed less. If they’re looking a little lean, give them more.
Here is a quick guide to help you monitor their body condition to maintain a healthy weight:
If you are still looking for more information, check out our FAQ’s and Education Centre.