How to Start Raw Feeding for Your Dog: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Start Raw Feeding for Your Dog: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Start Raw Feeding for Your Dog: A Beginner’s Guide

Raw feeding has gained significant popularity among dog owners for its numerous benefits, including shinier coats, healthier teeth, and improved digestion. Transitioning your dog to a raw diet, however, can feel overwhelming at first. With proper planning and guidance, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition for your furry friend.

Step 1: Understand the Basics of Raw Feeding

Raw feeding involves providing your dog with a diet consisting of raw meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables and fruits. The goal is to mimic what their ancestors might have eaten in the wild.

Our blends are a 70/10/10/10 ratio: 70% Protein, 10% Organ Meat (Offal/liver), 10% Calcium, 10% Plant matter (veg, seeds, oils etc)

Step 2: Transition Slowly

Abrupt changes in diet can upset your dog’s stomach. To avoid this, transition gradually:

Start with a single protein: Begin with a mild protein, such as chicken, turkey, for about a week.

Introduce variety: Gradually add other proteins like beef, lamb, or fish, along with raw meaty bones and organs.

Monitor your dog’s reaction: Keep an eye on their stool, energy levels, and overall health. If you notice any adverse reactions, consult your vet.

Step 3: Maintain Proper Hygiene

Handling raw food requires extra attention to cleanliness to avoid contamination:

Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw food.

Wash your hands and your dog’s bowls thoroughly after each meal.

Store raw meat in sealed containers in the fridge or freezer.

Step 4: Balance Over Time

While every meal doesn’t need to be perfectly balanced, aim for nutritional balance over a week. Include a variety of proteins, organs, and edible bones to meet your dog’s dietary requirements. Some owners also choose to add supplements for an extra nutritional boost.

Step 5: Monitor and Adjust

Regularly monitor your dog’s health and weight to ensure the diet is working well for them. 

Bonus Tips for Success


Join raw feeding communities: Online forums and social media groups can provide valuable tips, recipes, and encouragement.

Stay patient: Some dogs may take time to adjust to the new diet, especially if they’ve been on kibble for years.

By taking these steps, you can set your dog up for a healthier, happier life. Raw feeding may require extra effort, but the benefits for your pet are well worth it. If you have questions or need support, feel free to reach out or visit Doghouse Dog Cafe for guidance and quality raw food options!