What Age Can You Start Feeding Raw to Dogs?
Raw food diets have historically benefitted dogs and their digestive systems. They can be advantageous as they provide your pet with essential nutrients and vitamins that can be lost during cooking.
However, when offering your dog this type of diet it’s important to ensure the food is high-quality and certified safe for animal consumption. With the endless benefits, this blog will delve into what age can you start feeding raw to your dogs.
Raw Dog Food For Puppies
Contrary to popular belief, a raw food diet is perfectly safe for puppies! You can start a raw food diet from as early as 4 weeks old, no matter the breed.
There are many raw dog foods made specifically for puppies, with higher natural essential oils and real meat proteins to aid the development and growth of your pup. This food will be slightly different to adult raw food, as it’s made to suit your puppy’s baby teeth and weaker stomach.
How To Start Feeding Raw
Transitioning your puppy onto a raw food diet can be tricky to navigate but, to start with, it’s recommended to begin on simple proteins such as just chicken or just beef for example. This allows your puppy and their stomach to adjust to this change. Adding a good quality probiotic to their food can help this transition be a little smoother.
Make sure you watch your pup for any reactions or sensitivities that could occur.
General guidelines for raw feeding a puppy is 40-60 grams of meat per kilo of bodyweight per day. For an adult dog, it is recommended to feed them 20-30 grams of meat per kilo of bodyweight daily. However, these are just guidelines and it’s important to consider things like your dog’s weight, lifestyle, health, and sex as well.
If you’re unsure, always make sure to consult a vet or dietician for professional guidance.
Benefits of Raw Feeding Your Dog
There are many benefits that come with choosing a raw food diet for your dog. One of the most well-known positive of raw feeding is that the food can be easier for your pet to digest due to the high-quality nutrients and lack of additives, fillers and preservatives.
Another benefit is a healthier coat and skin, due to the nutrients and vitamins your dog is getting. Alongside a shinier coat, you may also find that your furry friend has less dog odour, this is because they’re no longer consuming nasty additives and more in their diet.
Other advantages of a raw food diet also include a better immune system, increased energy, hydration, and easier weight management. A raw diet can provide your dog with an huge array of health benefits!
At Kiezebrink, we have a wide range of raw dog foods to choose from. No matter your furry friend’s age or tastes, we have an extensive selection of meats and well-known brands to browse.
Visit our online shop to see more, or get in touch if you have any questions.
