Transitioning to Raw Food And Its Benefits

by Rosey Saunders

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of providing our pets with a diet that closely resembles what they would eat in the wild. This has led to an increasing interest in raw pet food, and many pet owners are considering making the switch.

We know that making any change to your dog's food is a big decision, as pet owners we always want to make sure we're doing the best for our dogs. But what does transitioning to Billy + Margot raw food mean, and what benefits does it offer for our furry companions?

 

Understanding Raw Dog Food

Raw pet food, also known as a raw food diet or a BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet, consists of uncooked, minimally processed ingredients that mimic the diet of a wild animal. This diet typically includes raw meat, bones, organs, vegetables, and fruits. The idea behind this diet is to provide pets with the nutrients they evolved to eat.

 

The Benefits of Transitioning to Raw Dog Food

  1. Improved Digestion: Raw food diets are generally easier for dogs to digest. This can lead to fewer digestive issues such as gas, diarrhea, and vomiting.
  2. Healthy Skin and Coat: Many dog owners report that their pooches experience shinier coats and healthier skin after transitioning to a raw diet. The balanced nutrients in raw food can contribute to improved overall health.
  3. Better Dental Health: Chewing on raw bones can help keep your pet's teeth clean and reduce the risk of dental problems like plaque and tartar buildup.
  4. Weight Management: Raw food diets can help maintain a healthy weight for pets.
  5. Increased Energy: Some dog owners notice that their pets have increased energy levels and are more active after transitioning to raw food. This may be due to the higher quality of nutrients in their diet.
  6. Reduced Allergies: Many dogs experience relief from food-related allergies and sensitivities.

 

How to Transition to Raw Dog Food: 

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or has not been exposed to raw food before, we recommend a gradual transition over the course of a few days to a week. Start by replacing a small portion of their current food with Billy + Margot Raw, and increase the amount each day until their entire meal is switched over to raw. This will allow their digestive system to adjust to the new diet and minimize any potential stomach upset. 

  1. Feed your dog the same protein for a few days. After this feed your dog a new protein every week and monitor for potential intolerances or allergy reactions.
  2. When your dog has tried all proteins you should then aim to feed at least 3-4 proteins per week, changing each day where possible.

It's important to remember that every dog is different, and some may take longer to adjust to a new diet. Keep an eye on your dog's weight and overall health as you make the switch to ensure they are adjusting well. And as always, consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog's diet.

All our raw recipes can be purchased online, Pets at Home or Asda, use our store finder to find a store near you.