Thinking of switching to raw....

[mminichan]

Originally Posted by tjdmom

ok, I have another question. I've heard the raw diet is especially good for their teeth but since this is pre made and already ground up, is it still good for their teeth or should I be giving her a chicken drumstick or something similar now and then for her teeth?

I also brush Chloe's teeth every night (or every another night). I also give her Merrick Flossies every night.

[Wylie's Mom]

Originally Posted by tjdmom

Ok! I'm doing it! I'm going today to get it but is it best to just go cold turkey? I heard that it takes longer to digest the kibble than raw so I assume it would be a no no to mix it?

Just go cold turkey, it works best when making this kind of a change. It's not a "no no", per se, but it can be difficult for some dogs to digest both at the same time. Keep in mind, though, the tummy doesn't know whether you're feeding raw or non-raw - tummies only know which chemical is present: carb, protein, fat, toxin etc.

[MyFairLacy]

Originally Posted by tjdmom

Ok! I'm doing it! I'm going today to get it but is it best to just go cold turkey? I heard that it takes longer to digest the kibble than raw so I assume it would be a no no to mix it? MyFairLacy you seem really up on all this. Can you give me some good advice?? Thanks! Theresa

I prefer to switch cold turkey. All the raw research I read beforehand told me to. Most dogs do fine with the sudden switch. However, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, there could be an upset tummy for a little while...but it should work it's way out quickly. I really think most have done fine with a cold turkey switch though