Raw Food Struggles: What to Do if Your Dog Won't Eat Raw Food and 6 Tips to Help Them Transition

Most dogs instinctively love the real meat and vital organs that make up the bulk of a raw-fed dog’s diet. However, a raw diet is quite different from a traditional kibble diet, and sometimes it takes some convincing to switch your dog to raw.

Some dogs are hooked on the carbs, added fillers, and junk ingredients found in kibble. The taste, texture, and consistency of a raw diet differ from what they are used to. It’s like switching from eating greasy fast food to eating healthy foods daily. It can take some time to get used to. If your dog won’t eat the raw food you’re offering them, here are some tips you can try:

Tip: Mix it up

Mixing the raw food into your dog’s regular kibble can help entice picky eaters who may be hesitant to try a raw diet. You can also make a gravy to pour over the top using Meal Mix-ins. Slowly adding variety to your dog’s everyday diet will help them become accustomed to the dietary changes.

Tip: Add goat’s milk

Some dairy products, such as cow’s milk, may cause digestion problems and diarrhea in dogs. However, raw goat’s milk is easy on a dog’s digestive system and less likely to cause loose stool. Adding a small amount of goat’s milk on top of the raw food you’re feeding your dog can often be the factor that entices your dog to try raw for the first time.

Tip: Check the temperature

If you’re feeding a pre-made frozen raw diet, such as Vital Essentials Frozen Patties, check the temperature before feeding it to your dog. Leaving thawed patties at room temperature for 10 minutes before offering them to your dog, or adding a little warm water to the patties, will often warm them up enough to convince your dog to try them. Don’t warm them up in the microwave or on the stove, however, as that will cook the raw patties.

Tip: Change the consistency

Raw diets come in various consistencies and forms, including frozen patties, freeze-dried patties, freeze-dried mini patties, freeze-dried nibblets, and freeze-dried mini nibs. If your dog is having difficulty making the switch, try a different form of raw food. You can also change the consistency of freeze-dried patties by adding some liquid and breaking the patties up to form a thick gravy texture.

Tip: Change proteins

Typically raw diets are made with a single protein source, so if you’ve tried all of the above tips and your dog isn’t taking to a raw diet, it may be time to switch the protein source. There are various Vital Essentials protein sources available, including beef, chicken, turkey, duck, salmon, and rabbit, so don’t be afraid to try something different.

Tip: Be consistent

The more frequently you offer a raw diet to your dog, the quicker they will be accustomed to the change. You’ll also see the benefits of a raw diet, including a thick, shiny coat, less shedding, less poo, and an overall healthier pet.

For more information on Vital Essentials and our full product line, follow us on TikTok and Instagram. And if you have any questions, be sure to check out our FAQ page for answers. Together, we can ensure your pet gets the proper nutrition they deserve.