Switching Your Dog to Raw Food (Step by Step Guide)
Switching your dog to raw doesn't need to be complicated.
The key is to keep it simple and give your dog time to adjust. Most dogs transition without any issues when it's done properly.
Step 1: Decide How You Want to Transition
There are two main ways people do it:
Gradual transition (recommended): Start by mixing a small amount of raw with their current food and increase it over a few days.
Straight swap: Some owners switch in one go. This can work, but it's more likely to cause an upset stomach.
For most dogs, gradual is the safer option.
Step 2: Start With Simple Proteins
Keep it easy on their stomach to begin with.
Good starting options:
Avoid rich mixes or tripe right at the start as these can be harder to digest initially.
Step 3: Expect Some Changes
It's normal to see small changes while your dog adjusts:
- Slightly looser stools
- Smaller, firmer poos after a few days
- Increased appetite
This is just their system adapting.
Step 4: Don't Overcomplicate It
If you're feeding a complete raw meal, you don't need to add anything. Everything is already balanced, so you can feed it as it is.
Many people make the mistake of adding extras too early, which can actually cause more issues.
Step 5: Feed the Right Amount
As a guide:
- Puppies → 4–6% of body weight
- Adults → 2–3% of body weight
Start in the middle and adjust based on your dog's condition.
Step 6: Stick With It
The biggest mistake is changing things too quickly.
If your dog has slightly loose stools, don't panic. Give it a few days before making changes. Consistency is what helps their system settle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Switching too quickly without easing in
- Feeding too much too soon
- Introducing too many proteins at once
- Overcomplicating it with extras
Keeping things simple will give you the best results.
How Long Does It Take?
Most dogs fully adjust within:
- 3 to 7 days for initial transition
- 2 to 3 weeks to fully settle
After that, you can start introducing more variety.
Final Thoughts
Switching to raw is one of those things that feels more complicated than it actually is.
Start simple, go steady, and adjust based on your dog. Once they're settled, feeding becomes very straightforward.
FAQs
Can I mix raw and kibble during the switch? Yes, this is the most common way to transition.
What if my dog refuses raw? Some dogs take a little time. Try different proteins or slightly warming it to bring out the smell.
When can I introduce more flavours? Once your dog is stable, usually after a couple of weeks.
If you're unsure where to start, just let us know your dog's weight and we'll guide you through it.