How to Transition Your Dog to Raw Food

Every dog is unique and there is no single “one size fits all” approach to

transitioning your dog from kibble (dry processed nuggets) to a more natural, holistic, raw meat-based diet. There are, however, some basic principles and techniques that apply in most

cases:

Transitioning Your Dog to Raw Food

LESSON NUMBER

1:

Be positive. Dogs and cats are very sensitive

and can sense any apprehensions or

skepticism you may be feeling about feeding raw food. Being confident will reassure your pet about

your choice to change to a new diet.

LESSON NUMBE

R 2:

The older the dog (or the longer it has been eating kibble),

the longer you should take to

transition to the new diet.

LESSON NUMBER

3:

While variety is the key to outstanding health when

feeding a fresh, raw meat-based diet, it’s best to start

with one type of meat during your transition

(preferably the same meat type you are currently

feeding). This will make it easier on your dog’s digestive system.

LESSON NUMBER

4:

Fast your dog the night before beginning its

transition. Your dog will have a greater interest

in the new food the next morning and this also gives their digestive

system a chance to rest.

LESSON NUMBER

5:

Limit treats during the transition,

especially flour/grain based ones, in order

to increase your dog’s appetite for its meals.

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R 6:

Provide access to plenty of clean water (preferably filtered).

PUPPIES

Puppies will generally have

healthier digestive systems than older dogs

or those with health issues, and

therefore will tolerate a more

rapid switch (i.e., 1 or 2 days) with

no trouble.

Start by substituting ¼

Darwin’s for your dog’s current food

in each meal, gradually increasing

Darwin’s while proportionately decreasing the kibble until the

transition is complete.

Young and Healthy Dogs

These dogs can transition more quickly than older dogs and those with digestive

issues. If your dog has no signs of illness or digestive difficulties such as loose stools, constipation or occasional vomiting, then you may be able to switch within 5-7 days. This gradual transition aids in helping your dog’s gastrointestinal system adapt to the

new meals.

Begin by substituting 1/8th raw food for

your dog’s current food. 1

:

After three meals,

double the raw portion,

while reducing the kibble

by the same amount.

2:

After three more meals, double the raw portion again and reduce the

kibble again.

3:

After feeding one-half raw for 3

meals, give a meal of all raw. If your dog tolerates this

well with no digestive upset or other symptoms of

discomfort, you have successfully

switched your dog!

4:

Picky Eaters and Older Dog

These dogs may turn their noses up at the smell and texture of their new food. Don’t worry, as this is a

common occurrence (particularly with smaller

dogs) and is usually easy to address by following these

steps:

Eliminate treats during

the transition

STEP 1:

Fast your dog the night before

starting the transition

STEP 2:

Gently cook raw meals (this will

release the flavors and aromas of the food). Don’t over-cook the meals-lightly bake in a toaster oven, or poach quickly on

the stove.

STEP 3:

Serve the meal in an appealing

manner in a new place or “safe” area of your kitchen

away from foot traffic.

STEP 4:

Add flavor “bribes” such

as garlic powder, cheese or an egg yolk-usually these will convince

the most stubborn dogs.STEP

5:

DO THE HEALTHIEST THING FOR YOUR PET

Make the switch to a raw, natural diet

To learn how, visit:

www.darwinspet.com