How to Transition Your Dog to Raw Food
A simple, stress-free plan to switch your dog from kibble to fresh, raw meals.
Switching to raw food is one of the best things you can do for your dog — but it works best when you ease into it. Your dog's gut needs time to adapt from processing highly cooked, carbohydrate-heavy kibble to digesting fresh, nutrient-dense raw food. The good news? Most dogs take to raw immediately. They love the taste. It's their digestive system that needs the runway.
This guide walks you through the full transition, what to expect along the way, and how to handle the occasional hiccup.
The 10-Day Transition Plan
The key is gradual mixing. Start small and increase the raw portion every few days. This gives your dog's gut bacteria time to shift from processing starches to processing proteins and fats.
1-3
Start with a small portion of raw mixed into their regular food. Most dogs will eat around the kibble to get to the raw first — that's a good sign. Chicken is the mildest protein and easiest on the stomach, so we recommend starting there.
4-6
Half and half. By now your dog's digestive system is building the right gut bacteria to process raw meat efficiently. You may notice stools changing in consistency or color — this is completely normal and a sign the transition is working.
7-9
Almost there. Many owners start noticing real changes around this point — more energy, shinier coat, and an enthusiasm at mealtime they've never seen before. Stools should be firming up and getting smaller.
10+
Full raw. Watch for the clean bowl — it happens fast. Your dog is now eating what their body was designed for. The real results continue to improve over the next 4-8 weeks.
Your transition at a glance
Tip: The Starter Bundle comes with all three proteins (chicken, beef, and turkey). We recommend starting with chicken for the first few days, then rotating in beef and turkey once fully transitioned.
What to Expect During the Transition
Every dog is different, but here are the most common things owners notice. Almost all of these are temporary and a sign the transition is working.
Normal signs (no action needed)
Softer or slightly different stools — The gut is adapting. This usually resolves within 3-5 days. Raw-fed stools will ultimately be smaller, firmer, and less smelly.
Increased water intake — Raw food has much higher moisture content (~70%) than kibble (~10%). Some dogs drink more at first while others drink less. Both are fine.
More excitement at mealtime — Dogs can smell real food. Many raw-fed dogs start dancing or barking when they hear the fridge open. This never goes away.
Mild detox symptoms — Some dogs have slightly watery eyes, extra shedding, or minor skin changes in the first 1-2 weeks. This is the body clearing out toxins from processed food.
Slow it down if you see these
Loose stools for more than 3 days — Drop back to the previous ratio (e.g., 50/50 back to 25/75) and hold for a few extra days before advancing again.
Skipping meals — Try warming the raw food slightly with a splash of warm water to release the aroma. You can also lightly sear the outside for the first few meals.
Vomiting — Rare, but if it happens, go back to a smaller raw portion and stretch the plan to 14-21 days. If vomiting persists, consult your vet.
Tips for Picky Eaters
Most dogs dive in immediately — raw food smells and tastes like real food because it is real food. But if your dog is hesitant:
Puppies vs. Adults
Puppies can absolutely eat raw — many breeders start from weaning. Feed 5-8% of current body weight per day. Transition over 7 days instead of 10, since puppies adapt faster. Use our Meal Plan Builder for puppy-specific portions.
Follow the 10-day plan above. Feed 2-3% of ideal body weight per day, split into two meals. Adjust up for active dogs and down for seniors. Body condition is the best guide — ribs should be felt but not seen.
Storage & Handling
Freezer
Flat packs stack like books. 12 packs = small shoebox. Fresh for 6 months.
Thawing
Move 2-3 days' worth to the fridge. Thaws in 12-24 hours. Use within 3-4 days.
Serving
Open, portion, serve. About 30 seconds. Wash the bowl with soap after.
Hygiene
Wash hands after handling, just like raw chicken for your own dinner.
Pro tip: Thaw packs in a shallow dish in the fridge to catch condensation. Stack them vertically like books for the fastest, most even thaw.
How Much to Feed
The general rule is 2-3% of your dog's ideal body weight per day, split into two meals. Use our Meal Plan Builder for a personalized recommendation.
| Dog Weight | Daily Amount | Daily Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 20 lbs | 6-10 oz | $2.25 - $3.75 |
| 40 lbs | 13-19 oz | $4.49 - $7.49 |
| 60 lbs | 19-29 oz | $6.74 - $11.24 |
| 80 lbs | 26-38 oz | $8.99 - $14.98 |
| 100 lbs | 32-48 oz | $11.24 - $18.73 |
Cost range based on Harvest Chicken ($5.99/lb) through Harvest Beef ($7.99/lb). Active dogs and puppies eat toward the higher end.
Start Your Dog's Transition Today
The Starter Bundle gives you 12 lbs across all three proteins — the perfect way to find your dog's favorite and make the switch stress-free. Use code NEWBIE20 for 20% off your first order.
And if your dog doesn't love it? Full refund, no questions asked. That's our Clean Bowl Guarantee.
Try the Starter BundleHave questions about transitioning? Our AI assistant can help — just click the green chat button.
Or email us at info@boneandharvest.com. We're real people and we're happy to help.
