Raw Feeding Advice
How to Switch Your Dog
to Raw Food
A clear guide to moving your dog onto a natural raw diet, including the difference between a straight swap and a short gradual transition.
Straight Swap
Often suitable for younger, healthy dogs with no known digestive issues.
5 Day Transition
A gentler option for older dogs or dogs with more sensitive digestion.
Keep It Simple
Start with complete meals and avoid introducing too many proteins too quickly.
There are two common ways to switch to raw
Switching your dog to raw food does not need to be complicated. In most cases, there are two simple approaches: a straight swap or a short gradual transition.
Many younger, healthy dogs can move straight onto raw food very successfully. Older dogs, dogs with sensitive digestion, or dogs with existing health issues may do better with a more gradual transition.
At Rheas Raw Pet Foods, Sophie often advises customers based on the individual dog in front of them. Many of Sophie’s regular customers already know and trust her guidance, and her approach is simple: if you choose a gradual transition, keep it short.
Feeding two very different types of food together for too long may be less helpful for the gut, so if you go gradually, we recommend keeping it to no more than 5 days.
Option 1: Straight swap
A straight swap means stopping the old food and beginning raw food straight away.
This is often suitable for:
- younger dogs
- healthy dogs
- dogs with no known digestive issues
- dogs who generally cope well with dietary change
If you choose this route, start with a simple complete raw meal rather than lots of different products.
Option 2: Short gradual transition
A gradual transition can be a gentler option for older dogs, more sensitive dogs, or dogs with existing health issues.
The key point is that if you choose a gradual transition, it should usually be kept to no more than 5 days.
A simple 5 day transition might look like this:
Which option should I choose?
A straight swap is often suitable for:
- younger dogs
- healthy dogs
- dogs with no history of digestive sensitivity
A short gradual transition may be better for:
- older dogs
- dogs with sensitive stomachs
- dogs with existing health issues
- dogs who have struggled with dietary change before
If you are unsure, Sophie and the team are always happy to point you in the right direction based on your dog’s age, condition and needs.
Transitioning a dog onto low fat raw food
Some dogs need a more carefully managed transition, particularly if they require a low fat raw diet. This can include older dogs, dogs with a history of digestive sensitivity, or dogs whose diet has been adjusted for health reasons.
In these cases, it is often best to keep the switch simple and controlled. Start with a straightforward low fat raw food option and avoid introducing too much variety too early.
A short gradual transition may be the better route for dogs needing low fat meals, but the same principle applies: keep the process steady and avoid dragging it out for too long.
What should I feed first?
Whether you choose a straight swap or a short gradual transition, the best place to start is with a simple complete raw meal.
We usually recommend:
- Complete 80/10/10 meals
- Single protein raw meals
- Low fat raw food where a lighter option may be helpful
Common questions
What if my dog’s stools change?
That can be normal. Many owners notice smaller, firmer stools once their dog starts on raw food.
Should I introduce lots of variety straight away?
No. It is usually better to begin with one complete meal and keep things simple until your dog is fully settled.
How much should I feed?
You can use our raw feeding guide to work out daily portions based on weight and activity level.
Complete Meals
Balanced raw meals that make starting simple and straightforward.
View complete raw food →Raw Mince
Simple mince options to build variety once your dog is comfortably eating raw.
Browse raw mince →Natural Treats & Chews
A natural way to add enrichment once your dog has settled onto raw feeding.
Explore treats & chews →Need more help?
If you are unsure which route is best for your dog, Sophie and the team are always happy to help.
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