RAW COMPLETES

10 Things You Need To Know about raw Don’t take your dog’s nutrition lightly. A balanced diet is the foundation of a long, healthy life, while a nutritionally deficient one can lead to serious health issues. If you are considering the switch to raw, here are 10 things you need to know first: 1. Understanding the Two Main Raw Diets There are two primary methods of raw feeding: • Prey Model: Aims to recreate a "wild" diet using whole carcasses, including bones, organs, muscle meat, skin, and connective tissue. • BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food): A more practical approach for most owners that includes muscle meat, organs, and bones, supplemented with fruits, vegetables, and natural boosters. 2. Research is Vital A homemade diet can easily become imbalanced. It is crucial to research extensively before you begin. We recommend starting with reputable literature, such as Raw & Natural Nutrition for Dogs by Lew Olson, to understand the foundations of canine nutrition. 3. The Golden Ratio: Meat, Bone, and Organ Generally, you should feed your dog 2–3% of their ideal body weight. That daily amount should be broken down into these approximate ratios: • 80–85% Muscle meat (including fat and connective tissue) • 10% Raw meaty bones (soft, non-weight-bearing) • 5–10% Organs (half of which should be liver) Note: Monitor your dog's stools to adjust. Too much fat can cause loose stools, while too much bone can lead to constipation. 4. Transition Slowly Your dog’s digestive system needs time to adjust. Start with a single protein (such as minced beef or chicken) for a week before introducing variety. Don't be alarmed by slightly softer stools during the first few days—this is a normal part of the transition. 5. Prepare Vegetables Correctly Dogs lack the enzymes to break down the cellulose (cell walls) in raw vegetables. To ensure they absorb the nutrients, you must lightly steam and then pulse or puree vegetables into a mash before adding them to the bowl. 6. Not All Bones are Created Equal While raw bones are great for dental health, they must be handled with care. Never feed cooked bones, as they splinter and can cause internal damage. Stick to "soft" raw meaty bones appropriate for your dog’s size. 7. The Importance of Nutrient Balance Certain vitamins and minerals must exist in specific ratios to work correctly. The most critical is the Calcium to Phosphorus ratio (ideally 1:1). Because meat is high in phosphorus, bone intake (or a calcium supplement) is essential to prevent your dog from depleting their own calcium reserves. 8. Supplements May Be Necessary Even with a raw diet, some dogs benefit from added supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), Kelp, or Probiotics. However, avoid "over-supplementing." Always check ingredient lists to ensure you aren't doubling up on specific vitamins. 9. Use Your Common Sense Every dog is an individual. If your dog is a "gulper" who tries to swallow bones whole, they may be at risk of choking. In these cases, it is safer to feed ground bone or use a high-quality calcium supplement instead. Safety always comes first. 10. Consult a Professional Many traditional vets receive limited training in raw nutrition. If you want professional medical guidance, seek out a holistic or raw-friendly vet. They can provide expert oversight and bloodwork to ensure your dog is thriving on their new diet.