A Guide to Safely Introducing Raw to Puppies

Introducing your puppy to a raw diet can set them up for a lifetime of health benefits - but timing and protein selection are key to ensuring a smooth transition. If you’re wondering when and how to start feeding raw, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

When Can Puppies Start Eating Raw?

Puppies can begin eating raw food as early as 3-4 weeks old, typically when they start weaning off their mother’s milk. At this stage, their digestive system is still developing, so it’s important to introduce proteins gradually and ensure a balanced diet. By 8 weeks old, most puppies can fully transition to raw, provided they are given appropriate proteins and portions.

Best Proteins to Start With

When introducing raw food to an 8-week-old puppy, it’s best to start with mild, easily digestible proteins before adding variety. Some of the best starter proteins include:

Chicken – Lean and easy to digest

Turkey – A gentle option with a good balance of protein and fat

Rabbit – A novel protein that’s low in fat and great for sensitive stomachs

These proteins are mild, well-tolerated and provide essential nutrients without overwhelming a puppy’s digestive system.

Expanding the Diet: Proteins to Introduce Later

Once your puppy has adjusted to raw feeding (after about 2-4 weeks), you can begin introducing additional proteins to provide variety and balanced nutrition:

Beef – Rich in nutrients but slightly heavier to digest

Duck – Higher in fat, so introduce in small amounts

Lamb – Great for variety but can be rich for some puppies

Fish – Excellent for omega-3s, but should be fed in moderation

Proteins to Avoid at First

Some meats can be too rich or difficult to digest for young puppies and should be introduced cautiously or avoided altogether in the early stages:

Pork – Some puppies struggle to digest it properly

Fatty meats – Too much fat too soon can lead to digestive upset

Raw fish in large amounts – Can interfere with vitamin B absorption if overfed

Raw Feeding Tips for Puppies

• Feed 3-4 times per day until around 4-6 months old, then transition to twice a day.
• Monitor digestion - stools should be firm but not overly hard. If stools are too loose, slow down protein variety.
• Ensure a balanced ratio - raw diets should include 80% muscle meat, 10% bone and 10% organ meat for optimal nutrition.
• Gradually introduce new proteins every couple of weeks to diversify their diet while keeping digestion stable.

Starting a puppy on a raw diet can be incredibly beneficial for their growth, digestion and overall health - when done correctly. By introducing proteins gradually and ensuring balance, you’ll set your puppy up for long-term success.