How to Transition to Raw

Easy Guide to Help Transition to Raw

Go Slowly—Much Slower Than You Think

Dogs with sensitive digestion often need 10–21 days to transition, sometimes longer.

A good starting structure:

  • Days 1–3: 75% old kibble, 25% raw
  • Days 4–7: 50% kibble, 50% raw
  • Days 8–12: 25% kibble, 75% raw
  • Days 13+: 100% raw

If your dog shows any digestive wobble (soft stool, gurgly stomach), just hold at the current ratio for a few days before increasing.

Start With a Single, Simple Protein

Sensitive dogs do best with a “bland” raw protein at first.

Great starter proteins:

  • Turkey
  • Chicken
  • Rabbit

Avoid starting with:

  • Beef
  • Lamb
  • Pork

    (these are richer and can overwhelm a sensitive gut)

Stick to one protein for 2–3 weeks before introducing another.

Add a Gentle Digestive Support

These can make a huge difference for sensitive dogs:

  • Probiotics (dog-specific)
  • Digestive enzymes
  • Pumpkin (1–2 tsp for small dogs, 1–2 tbsp for large dogs)
  • Goat’s milk (fermented is even better)

These help stabilize the gut while it adjusts to the higher moisture and protein levels of raw.

Keep Meals Cold but Not Freezing

Raw that’s too cold can cause stomach cramping in sensitive dogs.

Let it sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Watch for These Normal Transition Signs

Some mild changes are expected:

  • Slightly softer stool for a day or two
  • Increased thirst
  • More frequent poops

These are usually temporary.

Watch for These “Slow Down” Signs

If you see:

  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Refusal to eat
  • Mucus in stool
  • Lethargy

Pause the transition and go back to the previous ratio until things settle.