Raw Feeding Basics
Common Raw Dog Food Feeding Mistakes Edmonton
Jan 6, 2025
New raw feeders in Edmonton often run into the same avoidable mistakes. Here is what to watch for when starting your dog on raw food.
Raw feeding is straightforward once you have the basics down, but there are a few common mistakes that catch new raw feeders off guard. Here is what to watch for.
The most common mistake is switching a dog to raw food all at once rather than transitioning gradually. Dogs that have been eating kibble their whole lives need time to adjust. A sudden switch often results in loose stools or digestive upset that can put owners off raw feeding entirely. Our raw dog food transition timeline walks you through the right approach week by week.
Portion sizes matter. Starting at 2 to 3 percent of body weight per day is the right approach, and adjusting based on body condition over time is how you get the amount right for your individual dog. Our raw dog food daily feeding schedule covers exactly how to calculate and adjust portions.
Running out of freezer space mid-order is a predictable problem that is easy to avoid with a little planning. Before placing a large order, measure your available freezer space and make sure a 40LB box will fit comfortably alongside whatever else is stored there. See our guide on how to store raw dog food in the freezer.
Leaving raw dog food to thaw on the kitchen counter is a food safety mistake. Always thaw in the refrigerator. Our guide on how to thaw raw dog food safely covers the correct method and what to avoid.
Raw meat requires the same food safety habits whether it is for your dinner or your dog's. Wash hands before and after handling raw food, and clean any surfaces that come into contact with it. See our full guide on how to handle raw dog food safely at home.
Some owners switch to raw expecting immediate visible changes in their dog. The transition period can include temporary digestive adjustment, and meaningful changes in coat, energy, or stool quality take weeks to months to become apparent. Give the diet time before drawing conclusions.
Starting with a single protein and introducing variety gradually is the most sensible approach. Introducing multiple new proteins simultaneously makes it impossible to identify which one is responsible if your dog has a reaction. Once your dog is settled, our guide on how to rotate proteins shows you how to add variety safely. Browse single-protein starting blends at Hound and Bone.
This article is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet. Individual results may vary.