You can either go for a cold turkey switch or a gradual transition. The gradual method is generally recommended to avoid digestive upset, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Method 1: Gradual Transition (Recommended)
This method involves slowly replacing kibble with raw food over 7-10 days or longer, depending on how your dog reacts.
- Days 1-3: Start with 75% kibble and 25% raw food in each meal. Monitor your dog’s stool and appetite.
- Days 4-6: Increase the raw food to 50%, reducing kibble to 50%.
- Days 7-9: Feed 75% raw food and 25% kibble.
- Day 10+: Fully transition to 100% raw food.
If your dog experiences loose stools, gas, or vomiting, slow down the transition process and give their system more time to adjust.
Method 2: Cold Turkey Switch
Some dogs can handle an immediate switch from kibble to raw. To do this, fast your dog for 12-24 hours before introducing their first raw meal. This gives their digestive system time to clear out and reset.
This method is quicker but may result in digestive upset (e.g., diarrhoea or vomiting) in some dogs. It’s better suited for dogs with a history of dietary flexibility.
