How do I introduce or transition my dog onto Huntaway raw dog food?
Are you ready to transition to raw dog food? Or switch to another raw dog food? Whether you are switching from kibble to raw dog food, or introducing a new raw dog food brand, it’s important to transition a dog’s diet gradually in order to avoid digestive upset. Here are a few steps to help you and your dog with the process:
1. Choose the New Food
Select a high-quality raw dog food, like Huntaway Frozen Raw Venison or Freeze-Dried Raw Venison Dog Food.
2. Plan the Transition Period
Determine the length of time that’s best for your dog. Generally, the full transition works best over 7-10 days. If your dog is particularly sensitive to a new food, you may wish to extend this duration to 10-14 days.
3. Begin your Transition
Begin by mixing a small amount of the new food with your dog's current food. Use a ratio of approximately 25% new food to 75% current food. For example, if you feed your dog one cup of food, use ¼ cup of the new food and ¾ cup of the current food.
4. Monitor Your Dog's Reaction
Observe your dog's response to the new food during the initial transition period. Watch for any signs of digestive upset, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. If any issues occur, slow down the transition process and maintain the current food ratio for a few more days before progressing further.
5. Gradually Increase the Ratio
Over the next few days, gradually increase the proportion of the new food while decreasing the amount of the current food. Aim to increase the new food portion by 25% every 2-3 days. For example, on day four, use a 50:50 ratio of new food to current food, and on day seven, increase it to 75% new food and 25% current food.
6. Full Transition
By the end of the transition period, your dog should be solely eating the new food. If your dog is transitioning well without any digestive issues, you can make the final switch to the new food on day 7 or 10, depending on your chosen duration.
Remember to follow the feeding guidelines provided on the new food packaging, as the recommended serving sizes may differ from your previous brand. Also, ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
If you have concerns about your dog's diet or any unusual reactions during the transition, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian for guidance tailored to your pet's specific needs.
Check out our blog on How to Feed Raw for more information.
