Raw Feeding 101: Common Mistakes & How to Transition from Kibble Smoothly

Transitioning your dog from kibble to raw feeding is one of the most beneficial changes you can make for their health—but it’s not without its challenges. Many new raw feeders are eager to dive in, but without the right approach, common mistakes can delay the benefits or even upset your dog’s digestive system.

Here’s a closer look at the biggest mistakes pet owners make when introducing a raw diet, and how to avoid them.

1. Switching Too Quickly

The Mistake:

Jumping straight from kibble to raw overnight can cause digestive upset, diarrhoea, and discomfort. A dog’s gut needs time to adapt to digesting raw meat, bones, and natural fats.

The Fix:

Transition slowly over 7–10 days. Start by replacing a small portion of their kibble with raw, gradually increasing the raw portion each day. Some dogs may need longer—especially if they have a history of digestive sensitivity.

2. Not Feeding a Balanced Raw Diet

The Mistake:

Offering just raw meat isn’t enough. Dogs require a balanced blend of muscle meat, organ meat, edible bone, and small amounts of plant matter. Incomplete raw feeding can lead to nutritional deficiencies over time.

The Fix:

Choose a complete, pre-formulated raw meal like Raw Gold’s Free Range Chicken or Duck with Vegetables, which are formulated with the correct ratios of meat, bones, organs, and vegetables. If you prefer to DIY, follow trusted guidelines or consult a canine nutritionist.

3. Overcomplicating the Process

The Mistake:

Trying to include too many proteins, supplements, or raw components right away can make the transition overwhelming—for both the owner and the dog.

The Fix:

Start simple. Pick a single protein source (like chicken) and stick with it for the first week or two. Once your dog’s digestion stabilises, you can begin rotating proteins and exploring additional raw components like chicken necks, venison riblets, or tripe.

4. Ignoring Food Safety

The Mistake:

Proper handling of raw dog food is essential—not because raw is unsafe, but because all pet food, if handled incorrectly, can pose contamination risks. By following simple hygiene practices like washing hands, cleaning utensils, and storing food properly, raw feeders can safely provide their dogs with a nutritious, biologically appropriate diet.

The Fix:

Treat raw dog food like raw human food: store it in the freezer or fridge, defrost properly, use clean bowls, and wash your hands and surfaces after serving. High-quality products like Raw Gold use human-grade meat and follow strict food safety protocols, giving you peace of mind.

5. Not Watching Your Dog’s Response

The Mistake:

Some owners miss early signs that their dog is struggling with the transition, such as loose stools, itching, or excessive gas, and either push through or revert back to kibble.

The Fix:

Monitor your dog closely in the first few weeks. Mild digestive changes are normal, but if issues persist, pause and consult a vet or raw feeding expert. Sometimes it’s just a matter of adjusting the ratio or protein source.

Why It’s Worth It

Raw feeding is one of the best ways to improve your dog’s digestion, skin health, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. With a little patience and the right knowledge, you’ll be setting your dog up for a healthier, happier life.

Start strong, stay consistent—and remember, quality matters. Choosing a trusted, balanced raw food brand like Raw Gold ensures your dog gets everything they need from the start.