Stools from raw-fed dogs tend to be smaller and firmer, as the dog is absorbing more nutrients from its food. Some dogs will strain slightly at the hard stools. This is acceptable, and even beneficial, as the harder stools help the dog express its anal glands, reducing the likelihood of infection.
There may be some variation in the consistency of your dog’s stool. This is also acceptable, although you should consult with your veterinarian if your dog experiences prolonged diarrhoea (soft stool is not diarrhoea).
You may also occasionally see a film around your dog’s
stool, especially during transition. This is also acceptable as it is
evidence of your dog’s body cleansing and detoxifying itself of harmful
toxins.
We have created a page on dog poop here that you
should read. As with any change of diet there could be direct effect on
the stools.
- Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea or mucusy stools are very common during
the transition, and occasionally afterwards as well. Loose stools can
also be attributed to dairy, or just too much veggies for a
transitioning pet. A process of elimination could be the next course of
action. The idea is to start with one type (chicken is usually a safe
and a good overall option) of raw meaty bones. Higher concentration of
bones (wings, necks, backs) will also yield more firm stools. After a
few days of stabilizing other meats, veggies treats and supplements can
slowly be added.
- Constipation: Keep in mind that a pet on a raw diet will
normally have relatively dry, light coloured stools, due to the bone
content of the diet. Those will also be smaller and less smelly then
what commercial food produces. If it seems too much of an effort the
easiest way to soften the stools is to increase the veggie content of
the next few meals. For more extreme situations some recommend giving
pumpkin (cooked or canned) or steamed butternut. Again, if symptoms are
extreme or persisting, a chat with a pet health professional or even
taking a stool sample may be comforting, to rule out other reasons.
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