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Switching your dog to raw is one of the best decisions you can make for their health. Shiny coats, cleaner teeth, better digestion… the list goes on! 💚
But like anything new, there are a few common mistakes pawrents make in the early days. Don’t worry — they’re easy to avoid once you know what to look out for.
1️⃣ Switching Too Quickly
Some owners move their dog straight from kibble to raw overnight. For some dogs this works fine, but for others it can cause upset tummies.
👉 How to avoid it: Start slowly. You can fast your dog for one meal before starting raw, or gradually introduce raw over a few days. Always keep an eye on how their tummy is adjusting.
2️⃣ Overfeeding or Underfeeding
Raw portions are based on body weight (usually 2–3% of an adult dog’s weight per day). Without weighing food properly, it’s easy to give too much or too little.
👉 How to avoid it: Use kitchen scales or our handy Raw Feeding Calculator to get portions just right.
3️⃣ Poor Storage or Defrosting
Leaving raw food out on the counter or refreezing it after thawing can make it unsafe for your dog.
👉 How to avoid it:
4️⃣ Not Feeding a Balanced Diet
Dogs need a balance of muscle meat, bone, and organ (commonly called the 80:10:10 ratio). Feeding just mince or just chicken wings won’t provide all the nutrients they need.
👉 How to avoid it: Buy complete meals from trusted brands (like the ones we stock!) or make sure you rotate proteins and include organ/bone in the right amounts.
5️⃣ Ignoring Your Dog’s Condition
Every dog is different. Feeding guides are a starting point, but you need to adjust based on your dog’s weight, activity, and health.
👉 How to avoid it: Keep an eye on your pup. You should be able to feel their ribs without seeing them sticking out. Adjust portions if they’re gaining or losing weight too fast.
💚 Final Thoughts
Raw feeding doesn’t have to be complicated. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll make the transition smooth and stress-free — for both you and your dog.
And remember, The Raw Paw Co. is here to help with trusted brands, local delivery, and plenty of guidance. Got questions? Just drop us a message — we love helping fellow dog lovers! 🐾
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