faqs
Is it okay to mix kibble & raw food?
Yes! Adding any amount of whole fresh foods to a kibble diet will greatly increase the dog's vitality and health. Fresh whole foods such as raw goat milk, bone broth, and fruit are an amazing way to add life back into the bowl. Learn more about Kibble Boosters.
Is raw feeding expensive?
It depends on how much you're willing to put in. If you buy only novel proteins, then yes, it will get quite expensive. But if you know where to look and find great deals, feeding raw can actually cost less than a "high-quality" dry food.
Will I get sick from bacteria?
If handled properly, no, you will not get sick. But if improperly handled, the risk of infection rises. Always wash down the surface worked on and every dish. And use a non-toxic multi-purpose spray to sanitize. Check out our raw feeding safety guide for more info.
Where can I source raw food?
Join local raw feeding Facebook groups and see if there are any local Co-ops near you. You can also source locally from grocery stores, Asian grocery stores, and more. Here is a sourcing series to guide you and a compiled list of raw feeding suppliers.
How much fish should I feed?
The general rule of thumb is 15% of the diet. But don't stress on this exact percentage. Fish is vital in raw diets is because of its omega-3 properties and rich amount of vitamin D. Stick to lower level fish such as sardines, smelt, and anchovies to avoid biomagnification.
Do I need to freeze my meat?
Suppose you are feeding wild game or fish, yes. Freeze the meat for a minimum of 3 weeks. Freezing ensures that any parasites/worms in the wild animal dies off and makes it safe for consumption. Never feed wild boar. Any grocery store meat or meat purchased through a raw feeding company should be safe for immediate consumption.
Do I need to add supplements?
If you are feeding a DIY raw diet, yes, additional supplementation will be needed to fill nutrient gaps. Learn more here.
How much food should I feed?
Depending on your dog's age, weight, metabolism, and activity level, the general guideline is around 2% of their body weight. But this can fluctuate. It's important to keep in mind that every dog is different, and you must cater to their individual needs. The amount fed will fluctuate depending on the dog’s activity level, age, and metabolism. Here is a calorie calculator for a general ballpark and how much to feed.
What are secreting organs?
Is there natural heartworm prevention?
Modern chemical heartworm is filled with pesticides and toxins to prevent a deadly disease. There are more holistic and natural ways to avoid this. Make sure to do your research on any method before trying and explore any topics that intrigue you. Talk with your holistic or integrative veterinarian for more information.
What if my dog is a picky eater?
Some dogs are hesitant to raw or specific new proteins. But more often than not, owners cater to the pickiness, which only makes matters worst. If suddenly your dog is not eating, make sure to rule out any medical conditions first. But if your dog is just picky, try not to make modifications for every meal. Examine life factors that could be contributing to the finicky behavior. Learn more here.
What kind of bones do I feed?
What if my dog won't eat raw organs?
Many dogs are picky with organs. For this, it is recommended to change the texture of the slimy organs. Freezing or lightly searing organs can change the smell, texture, and taste for dogs and entice them to eat it. Eventually, this technique can be phased out as the dog adjusts to the organs.
What is a "perfect poo" supposed to look like?
On a scale from 1-10, 1 being a puddle and 10 being a cigar, a healthy raw fed poop should look like a 7-10. A raw fed poop will be like a small cigar with no smell and relatively small. A kibble-fed stool will be more of a 3-4 and look like soft serve, be big, and very smelly. Be aware when a dog in transitioning stools are loose.
What do I do if my dog has hunger pukes?