How to Change a Dog's Diet From Dry to Raw Food

What to feed our dog has become an issue of debate in recent years, with increasing numbers of pet owners and veterinarians advocating the health benefits of all-natural, raw foods diet and others bemoaning the higher cost and risk of raw meat contamination. Arguments aside, people who choose to change their dog's diet from dry, processed food to raw meats, veggies and fruits should do so gradually. A slow and steady approach should shield the dog from unwanted digestive problems as he grows accustomed to new textures and tastes. Below are some steps to get started with the switch.

Things You'll Need

  • Dry dog food
  • Raw food (preferably meat)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start by mixing three quarters of your dog's original dry chow with a quarter of the new raw food. Feed your dog using this ratio for a minimum of two days to get her accustomed to the new ingredients. Some raw meat pet food producers suggest starting off with raw ground meat products during the first week of your pet's dietary transition.

    • 2

      After the first two or more days of the switch, mix half of the dry food with half raw food. Once again, make sure to keep feeding your pooch with these proportions for another two days or more.

    • 3

      Finally, adjust the meals to a ratio of three quarters of raw food to one quarter of dry. After about two days of giving him this mixture, you can begin to feed your dog only raw food from that point on.