Hey there, fellow dog moms and dads! If you’ve been following our journey, you know I’m all about that scrunchy mom life—balancing the best of both worlds for my kids and fur babies. So, when our newest addition, Lexi, joined the pack, I knew I wanted to explore raw feeding just like I did with Luna and Levi. Join me as we delve into the world of raw food for puppies and answer the burning question: can puppies eat raw food?
Benefits of Raw Feeding for Puppies
As an experienced raw feeder for the past decade, I firmly believe in the benefits of a natural, species-appropriate diet for dogs. Raw food provides puppies (and dogs in general) with whole, natural foods rich in essential nutrients, enzymes, and amino acids crucial for their growth and development. Improved digestion, healthier coats, boosted energy levels, and better dental health are just a few perks of raw feeding that I’ve noticed over the years. It’s essential to provide balanced nutrition tailored to your puppy’s specific needs, but raw feeding offers a holistic approach that can promote overall well-being.
Addressing Concerns About Raw Feeding
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: can puppies eat raw food? Some vets express concerns about bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances in raw diets. During Lexi’s recent vet visit, our temporary vet had reservations about our raw feeding plans, citing these concerns. But from my experience, careful food preparation and storage can mitigate these risks. Plus, starting with balanced, pre-made raw meals can ease any worries about nutritional deficiencies. It’s crucial to consult with a vet who shares your beliefs and values to ensure your puppy’s health and safety.
Transitioning to Raw Food
Transitioning your puppy to a raw food diet is a journey that requires patience and careful planning. It’s essential to do it gradually to avoid digestive issues. Begin by mixing small amounts of raw food with your puppy’s kibble, slowly increasing the ratio over time. Keep a close eye on your pup’s health and behavior during this process, adjusting as needed. Remember, every puppy is unique, so their transition timeline may vary. Communication with your vet is key—they can offer guidance and peace of mind throughout the transition.
Choosing the Right Raw Food
When it comes to raw feeding, choosing the right food for your puppy is crucial. We’ve opted for Answers Nibbles, a balanced raw food brand that we’re loving.
Answers Detailed Chicken Formula is made from organic chicken, chicken heart, chicken liver, ground chicken bone, a blend of fermented vegetables like carrots, yellow squash, and green beans, fermented raw whey, duck eggs, fermented raw cod liver, raw butter and kefir. For their full ingredient list, guaranteed analysis, and feeding calculator, you can visit their site here.
But don’t feel tied down to one brand—mixing it up exposes your pup to different recipes and protein sources, keeping things exciting and nutritious. It’s essential to ensure that your puppy’s raw diet is balanced and nutritionally complete, incorporating a variety of protein sources, organ meats, bones, fruits, and vegetables. If you’re unsure about how to create a balanced diet for your puppy, consult with a vet or canine nutritionist for personalized guidance.
Don’t know a canine nutritionist? We have used and recommend Perfectly Rawsome.
Unsure what brands to pick? Check out our post on Raw Dog Food For Busy Dog Moms.
Our Experience with Raw Feeding
Transitioning Lexi to a raw food diet has been a smotth experience for our family. And while is to early for us to notice the changes, I know from experience that she will thrive. We’re excited to continue exploring the world of raw feeding with Lexi and sharing that journey with you to help dispel the fear of raw feeding puppies.
So, can puppies eat raw food? Absolutely! Raw feeding offers numerous benefits for puppies, promoting overall health and well-being. However, it’s essential to approach raw feeding with caution and consult with a vet or canine nutritionist to ensure your puppy’s dietary needs are met. With patience, proper planning, and vet support, transitioning your puppy to a raw food diet can be a rewarding journey that sets them up for a lifetime of health and happiness.
