How to Transition Your Dog to a RAW Diet

We understand how hard it is to contemplate changing your pet’s food.  This is especially difficult if your pet is a picky eater or has allergies.  Here is our recommended plan to transition your dog or cat off their dry food.

We never recommend a rapid transition to any new food.  While it can be done, a quick change is more difficult on your pet’s digestive tract.  If you desire a rapid transition, we recommend discussing with your veterinarian to obtain a tailored plan specific to your pet.

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From Kibble To RAW: Beginner Transition Guide

This guide will walk you through transitioning your dog from kibble to a complete raw meal. Every dog is different, and transition timelines may vary depending on age, sensitivities, and previous diet. While many dogs adjust to raw food within 7–10 days, some can transition immediately, while others may benefit from a slower, more gradual approach. Puppies, picky eaters, and dogs with sensitive stomachs often do best when the transition is taken step by step.

75:25

Day 1 & 2

Mix at a ratio of 75% existing kibble : 25% single ingredient raw diet, like Fish Lake Road's Pure Arctic Charr meal.

50:50

Day 3 & 4

Increase Raw food ratio to 50% existing kibble : 50% raw food.

25:75

5 & 6

Increase Raw food ratio to 25% existing food : 75% raw.

0:100

7

100% of your pet’s meal is now raw. They are ready to start exploring beyond a single-ingredient recipe. 

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Transitioning Best Practices

If your pet has a sensitive stomach or digestive system, ask your vet to recommend a Probiotic or digestive enzyme to give a boost to healthy bacteria in your pet’s system. This will assist with the transition process and ease stomach upset.


Try to serve raw food at, or close to, room temperature. Cold food early in transition may cause nausea.


Use a slow feeding bowl. Raw proteins are new for your pet, and they will be excited to eat. Slowing their eating down will enable your pet to properly consume and digest the food.


It is not uncommon for your pet to have loose stool and/or mild diarrhoea with any food transition. Your vet can assist with products to mitigate these issues. On average, pets make a successful transition between 4-10 days, depending on age and activity level.


During the transition to raw meal, you may perceive that your pet appears hungry. This is part of the transition. Kibble formulas expand while being digested by your pet, to give the feeling of satiation. Raw foods are more nutrient-dense with less volume. As with any diet transition, your pet will become accustomed to the new volume towards the latter end of the transition.


After transitioning to raw, we recommend feeding your dog a variety of protein sources to ensure they receive a balanced diet. It also allows your pet’s digestive system to become accustomed to a variety of raw proteins.

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Transitioning To RAW FAQ's

How Long Does It Take To Transition To Raw Food?

Most dogs transition to raw food within 7–10 days, but some can switch immediately while others may need a slower approach. Puppies, picky eaters, and dogs with sensitive stomachs may benefit from taking things gradually. Small changes in stool or appetite during transition can be normal as your dog adjusts to a new diet.

Need Help Choosing Where To Start With Raw Feeding?

Not sure which product or protein is the best fit for your dog? We’re here to help. Whether you’re brand new to raw feeding or looking to try something new, we can help guide you toward products that match your dog’s needs, preferences, and feeding style. From balanced blends to treats and toppers, Labrador Pet is all about making raw feeding feel approachable and realistic for everyday dog owners. Contact us today for our best recommendation.

What Are Common Transition Symptoms?

During the transition to raw food, some dogs may experience temporary changes like softer stool, changes in appetite, mild stomach upset, or increased thirst. These small adjustments can be normal as your dog adapts to a new diet. Transitioning slowly and introducing proteins gradually can help make the process smoother, especially for sensitive dogs.

What Is The Difference Between BARF vs Prey diet

A BARF diet includes raw meat, bone, organs, and functional ingredients like fruits and vegetables to create a more balanced raw feeding approach. A Prey diet is more meat-focused and typically consists of muscle meat, raw bone, and organs only, without added fruits or vegetables. Both are popular raw feeding styles, and the best choice depends on your dog’s individual needs and your feeding preferences.

Where Do You Deliver?

We currently deliver throughout Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge.

How Does Pick Up Work?

Place your order online and we’ll coordinate a convenient pick-up time for you to drop by 231 Labrador Drive in Waterloo.