How to Transition to Natural Dog Food?

The transition from kibble to natural dog food shouldn't be made abruptly, as it can cause gastrointestinal problems. Learn more.

Reviewed and approved by the veterinarian Norka Romero.

Written by Editorial Team

Last update: 14 December, 2023

Dog kibble is a highly processed food. For this reason, when incorporating natural dog food into your pet’s diet, alterations in its intestinal microbiota may occur. This happens because the bacterial flora of the animal isn’t as varied as that of a human, so an abrupt change in food would cause gastrointestinal problems.

In view of this, if you want to make a transition from kibble to a natural diet, you should consider some guidelines to avoid causing health problems in your pet. Below, you’ll learn all the details you need to know!

How does the microbiota work in dogs?

We must take into account that in dogs, the intestinal microbiota is formed by a large number of live microorganisms, such as the following:

• Viruses
• Fungi
• Bacteria
• Protozoa

According to a publication reported in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, new research and approaches to bacterial identification have shown that the gut microbiota is a very complex ecosystem.

The presence of bacteria in the gut influences the health of all animals.

This is because the main function of the microbiota is the absorption of macronutrients and vitamins. Similarly, it’s responsible for the proper elimination of toxins.

Therefore, the transition of food in dogs is a process that should be done gradually and carefully in order to avoid digestive problems. You should also make sure that your pet receives a balanced and healthy diet.

Types of natural dog food

When you decide to say goodbye to feed and welcome natural dog food, doubts arise as to whether this type of diet is able to meet the nutritional requirements of your dog. Below, you’ll discover the benefits and disadvantages of two prominent types of diet.

The BARF diet

One of the best-known is the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food). It is intended to feed domestic four-legged companions on a regimen similar to that of the wild dog. Among its components -which are offered raw- the following stand out:

• Viscera
• Meaty bones
• Raw fruits and vegetables
• Proteins of animal origin

These foods are offered in small quantities.

This diet offers remarkable benefits. One of them is to favor the following parts of the canine’s body:

• Teeth
• Skin and coat
• Gut microbiota health

Also, it can positively influence the prevention of diseases related to inflammation and increased glucose in dogs, according to a publication of the Universidad Cientifica del Sur.

The BARF diet seeks to provide a natural and balanced diet for canines according to their nutritional and physiological needs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this diet isn’t suitable for all dogs, as some may have allergies or intolerances to certain foods.

It’s also worth mentioning that it requires more dedication. Owners must invest more time in the selection of foods and their combination in appropriate amounts, according to the nutritional needs of the dog.

Natural diet with cooked or raw materials

Another alternative is the natural homemade diet containing cooked or raw materials. It all depends on the preferences and needs of the dog. The foods used in this type of diet are mostly the following:

• Rice
• Meat
• Vegetables
• Tubers

The advantages of this diet are varied. Let’s review the most important ones:

• Adaptation to the specific nutritional needs of each dog
• Greater palatability and moisture concentration, which can contribute to reducing urinary problems
• Control over the amount of toxic substances in the diet, as the use of preservatives and chemical additives found in some commercial dog foods is avoided

Like the BARF diet, it requires time and effort, as the food must be carefully selected and prepared. It’s important to offer adequate proportions to cover the pet’s nutritional requirements.

In general, both types of diet correspond better to the canine’s digestive functions compared to processed foods. At the same time, dogs are more satisfied when consuming unprocessed materials and enjoy flavors that are more appealing to them.

https://myanimals.com/nutrition/dogs/homemade-recipes-dogs/a-meatball-recipe-your-dog-will-love/

The adaptation period

The transition to natural dog food should take place gradually. Natural food should be served along with kibble, but in smaller and smaller proportions. To be more precise, it should take place over a 7-day adaptation period, as follows:

• Day 1 and 2: 75 % kibble and 25% natural food.
• Day 3 and 4: 50% kibble and 50% natural food.
• Day 5 and 6: 25 % kibble and 75% natural food.
• Day 7: 100% natural food.

This transition process is carried out taking into consideration the specific nutritional demands for healthy growth and development. Each phase of the dog’s life has different requirements for the following components:

• Fats
• Proteins
• Carbohydrates
• Other nutrients

Changes brought about by natural dog food

After the transition period, one of the changes you’ll notice is a hardening of the stool and a reduction in both size and odor. These signs are indicative of increased nutrient utilization.

During the first few weeks, some ingredients may appear in the stool, such as carrot skins and some brown rice grains. These are the sources of fiber and are a normal manifestation.

You’ll also notice that the dog goes to the water bowl less often because it gets more hydration from its natural food.

Useful transition tips in your dog’s feeding system

In addition to the transition explained above, we invite you to follow some additional tips:

1. If you want to introduce foods into your dog’s diet, you need to give them one ingredient at a time and observe how their digestive system reacts.

2. Give your dog time to adjust. Some dogs may take longer to assimilate new foods.

3. Use food supplements according to the age and nutritional requirements of dogs.

4. It’s important to provide your pet with plenty of water during these days.

Your veterinarian should accompany the transition to natural dog food

Regardless of the type of natural dog food you decide to offer your pet, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist and follow the necessary recommendations to ensure a balanced and healthy diet.

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