Comprehensive Guide to Raw Dog Food in Chicago, Illinois

Approach 1 – Super Fast Transition

Feed your dog their last meal of kibble or “fresh” food, then begin a 12–48 hour fast depending on your dog’s tolerance. After fasting, serve a bowl of Leo's Raw Dog Food, and carefully monitor hydration, energy, and overall comfort during the process.

Approach 2 – Slow and Steady Transition

Plan a 3-day to 2-week gradual transition. Slowly replace kibble or commercial food with raw meals each day, reducing digestive upset and easing adaptation. This method is ideal for sensitive dogs or those new to raw feeding, providing a safe and effective approach.

7-Day Gradual Transition Schedule

Follow a clear 7-day schedule when transitioning your dog. Start with 90% usual food and 10% raw on day one, gradually increasing raw portions daily until day seven, when the diet is 100% raw. Always monitor stool consistency, appetite, and energy for best results.

Monitoring Your Dog During Transition

Observe stool, energy, appetite, and behavior during the transition period. Loose stools may indicate slowing down the transition, while firm stools and consistent energy suggest successful adaptation. Adjust the pace based on your dog’s response to ensure safe, comfortable, and effective integration of raw meals.

Puppies – Early Raw Introduction

Puppies can begin raw diets after weaning, usually around three to four weeks old. Introduce one protein at a time for at least a week before adding others. Gradual introduction ensures smooth adaptation, helps identify sensitivities, and establishes healthy eating habits early in life for puppies.

Senior Dogs – Supporting Older Pets

Older dogs transitioning from kibble may need digestive support through probiotics or enzymes. Gradually introducing raw meals helps improve nutrient absorption, reboot digestion, and ease adaptation to natural foods. Careful monitoring and small adjustments ensure seniors enjoy the benefits of a healthier, balanced raw diet.

Light Cooking for Picky or Sensitive Dogs

For hesitant dogs, lightly cook raw meals at low heat initially. Gradually reduce cooking over a week until fully raw. Light cooking may help sensitive dogs or those with gastrointestinal or immune issues adjust comfortably to raw diets while encouraging acceptance of new foods.

Protein Selection for Balanced Meals

Select high-quality meats, organs, and safe bones to provide all essential nutrients. Offering variety ensures complete nutrition while preventing deficiencies, supporting healthy digestion, and maintaining energy levels. Balanced protein selection is critical to provide dogs with sustained strength, immunity, and overall wellbeing throughout their lives.

Incorporating Vegetables and Supplements

Adding vegetables, fruits, and supplements ensures dogs receive essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber for overall health. Properly balanced meals support digestion, immune function, and wellbeing. Carefully selecting ingredients maintains a natural, filler-free diet while providing complete nutrition to support active, happy, and healthy dogs of all ages.

Proper Meal Prep and Storage

Store raw meals frozen or refrigerated to preserve freshness and prevent bacterial contamination. Portion meals in clean bowls, maintain hygiene, and follow proper handling procedures. These steps ensure nutrient retention, flavor, and safety, giving dogs consistent, high-quality raw meals while keeping feeding safe and convenient for owners.

Observing Stool and Digestive Changes

Stools may initially be softer due to increased water content in raw foods. Over time, stools become smaller, firmer, and less frequent as digestion improves. Monitoring these changes helps owners understand adaptation, adjust portions if needed, and track nutrient absorption for long-term digestive health and comfort.

Detox, Allergies, and Sensitivity Signs

During dietary transition, dogs may experience detox symptoms including loose stools, shedding, runny eyes, or ear excretions. These indicate the body eliminating toxins. If symptoms continue beyond a few days, consult a veterinarian. Careful observation ensures dogs remain healthy while safely adapting to a raw diet.