Can senior dogs switch to a raw diet?
These are the two most common questions we get asked when customers speak to us about their senior dogs diet, ‘‘Isn’t my dog too old?’’ or ‘‘Will they be able to handle the change?’’
No and yes. It is never too late to improve their quality of life!
Regardless of the dog’s age, a raw diet has many benefits; it improves their general health, strengthens their immune system, increases their happiness and levels of energy, eases their digestion, and it can even lengthen their lifespan.
However, before making the change from their existing diet over to raw, there are some important things to consider: like their habits and the lifestyle that you are both already accustomed to. Being a senior dog means the transition will be different to a younger dog.
Making the switch to a raw diet
Firstly, because of a senior dog’s aged digestive system, the change to raw needs to be slower and over a longer period of time. There might be the need for some help from probiotics, goat milk, and even small quantities of natural yoghurt to set them up for a smoother and more comfortable switch. It’s best to start adding these extras into their current meals at least 4 - 5 days before you begin transitioning your dog onto a raw food diet.
Any change in their stools will be an indication of an irritated or upset stomach. The rule of thumb is: the looser the poo, the slower you go.
Rather spread the transition over 2 – 3 weeks, while gradually increasing the quarterly quantities of raw food every 4 - 5 days, even if they are eager to chump down their new food. For example:
A few days of initial probiotics to improve their bacterial gut health.
A few days of ¼ new raw with ¾ old food.
A few days of ½ new raw with ½ old diet.
A few days of ¾ new raw with ¼ old food, until they are 100% on raw food and doing well. Ensure that all food is at room temperature for best digestion. Chilled food can lead to cramping.
What to expect from the switch
During the switch your dog will go through a detox period. This is their bodies way of cleansing itself through your dogs tissue and organs. Some of the changes might alarm you, but do not worry, this is normal and can take up to 3 weeks to subdue depending on your dog.
Loose or mucous like stools
Runny eyes
Change in their coat
After the switch there will be a few differences you will notice right away.
They will drink less water. A raw diet is more hydrating than a kibble or dry diet.
Their toilet habits will become less frequent. Their stools will be firmer and less smelly. This is because so much of their new diet will be absorbed, there will be less waste.
Get ready for all their new found energy. Some of our customers have told us, it felt like they are picking up the puppy they once brought to their new home.
enjoy the journey with them
An idea to get them used to the taste, smell and texture, would be to give them little tasters throughout the day. Why not surprise them with a new feeding bowl like a lick mat or an enrichment toy. Our raw food is great for stuffing into feeding toys or treats like cow ears and bones.
You can even try elevating your furry geriatric’s bowl on a step, stand or small low chair, so that eating is less strenuous on their joints and they do not have to bend so much to enjoy their new meals.
