Starting Fresh: A Guide to Transitioning Your Dog to Real Food

A gentle, guided way to introduce fresh feeding to your dog

Every dog is different. Some transition overnight without missing a beat.
Others benefit from a slower, steadier approach.

At Embark, we don't believe in rigid rules or fear-based feeding. We believe in observing your dog, supporting their digestions, and introducting fresh food in a way that feels calm - for both of you.

Here's how to do it well.

Why Transition Gradually?

When you change your dog's food, you're not just changing what's in their bowl - you're changing what's happening in their gut.

Digestive enzymes, stomach acidity, and gut bacteria adapt to the food they're regularly fed. A gradual transition allows:

  • The digestive system to adjust comfortably
  • Stool quality to remain stable
  • Sensitive dogs to adapt without stress
  • You to monitor how your dog response.

A slower start doesn't mean something is wrong. It simply means you're being thoughtful.

The 4-Week Gentle Transition Method

Ready to start?

  • Week 1 - 25% Fresh

    75% current food

    25% Embark fresh meal

  • Week 2 - 50% Fresh

    50% current food

    50% Embark fresh meal

  • Week 3 - 75% Fresh

    25% current food

    75% Embark fresh meal

  • Week 4 - 100% Fresh

    Fully transitione to Embark

1 4
Ready to start?

What to Expect During Transition

It's normal to see small changes while your dog adjusts.

You might notice:

  • Slightly softer stools in the early days
  • Increase or decrease in thirsy
  • Changes in stool volumne (often smaller over time)
  • Increased enthusiasm at mealtime

These are usually signs the body is adapting.

If stools become consistently loose, slow the transition for a few extra days before increasing the fresh portion.

Trust observation over panic.

Sensitive or Anxious Tummies?

For dogs with known sensitivities, we suggest:

  • Extending each stage to 10-14 days
  • Introducing one protein at a time
  • Avoiding additional treats during transition
  • Keeping meal times calm and consistent

Fresh food is often easier to digest long-term - but giving the gut time to adapt makes all the difference.

Get started

Feeding Once or Twice Daily?

Whether your dog eats one or twice daily is personal preference.

  • Feeding once daily works well for many adult dogs
  • Feeding twice daily can suit high-energy dogs or those prone to reflux.

If feeding twice daily, you can:

  • Split one portion into two meals (economical options), or
  • Use two smaller pre-portioned containers (convenience option).

Bother are perfectly acceptale. Choose what works for your rhythm.

I'm ready, let go

Portion Guidance

Daily feeding amounts are typically based on:

  • 2% of body weight for inactie dogs
  • 2.5% of body weight for moderately active dogs
  • 3% for highly active dogs

Puppies, seniors and working dogs may vary.

Our Start Here plan builder calculated this for you and rounds to the nearest practical portion size so we can prepare your meals accurately.

Start Here

Signs Fresh Feeding Is Working

Over time, many owners notice:

  • Leaner body condition
  • Soft, glossy coats
  • Clearer eyes
  • Smaller, firmer stools
  • Steadier energy
  • Less mealtime fussiness

Fresh food isn't about trends. It's about giving the body what it recognises.

A Calm Reminder

There is no "perfect" way to feed your dog.

You can:

  • Transition slowly
  • Start as a topper
  • Fresh feed once daily
  • Fresh feed exclusively

Even introducting a portion of real food can support long-term health.

We're here to guide, not pressure.

Need Support?

If you're unsure how to transition your dog, please reach out.

Include your dog's weight and build code (from your plan), and we will happily guide you.

Fresh feeding should feel simple and we're here to support that.

Reach out