Gradually mix new food with old over 7–10 days: Day 1–2: 25% new/75% old; Day 3–4: 50%/50%; Day 5–6: 75%/25%; Day 7+: 100% new. This minimizes digestive upset; monitor for issues like diarrhea. For puppies or sensitive dogs, extend to 14 days; consult vet for quick switches if needed.

Freeze-dried dog food removes moisture through freezing and sublimation, preserving nutrients and flavor without heat, making it lightweight and long-lasting but risky for pathogens if raw. Dehydrated food uses low heat to dry, also nutrient-dense but may lose some heat-sensitive vitamins; both are convenient rehydratable options.

Bone broth benefits dogs by boosting immunity with minerals and vitamins, supporting joint health via glucosamine and collagen, aiding digestion and gut healing, and providing hydration. It's great for recovery from illness, detoxing the liver, and rehydrating our Daily Hartz. We use no added sodium, slow-cooked chicken and beef broth, and it's what we feed our dogs daily.

Avoid artificial preservatives, colors, by-products, fillers like corn/wheat if allergic, and generic meats or fats. Watch for excess starches, melamine, propylene glycol, and farmed fish due to contaminants. Choose named proteins, whole ingredients.

Fats serve as concentrated energy, support skin & coat health, aid absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and essential fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6) play anti-inflammatory roles and support joint, cognitive and cardiovascular health. Choose quality fat sources.

Souce:

“Complete and balanced” means the diet meets all nutrient requirements for the dog's specific life stage and size, either through formulation or feeding trials. It doesn’t mean “perfect” for every individual dog—bespoke needs may require adjustment.