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The difference of fresh food
Fresh, gently cooked food is generally more digestible than kibble because it contains higher moisture levels, minimally processed proteins, and no fillers. Dogs often absorb nutrients more efficiently, leading to smaller, less odorous stools once the transition is complete. Kibble, by contrast, is more processed and typically contains starches that some dogs have difficulty breaking down, which can initially cause digestive changes when switching to a fresh diet.
The science
Fresh, gently cooked food is generally more digestible than kibble because it contains higher moisture, minimally processed proteins, and fewer fillers. Research has shown that dogs absorb nutrients from fresh or raw-style diets more efficiently, leading to smaller and firmer stools once the transition is complete. In contrast, kibble is more heavily processed and often relies on starches, which some dogs have difficulty breaking down.
Minimally processed meals often retain more natural proteins, amino acids, and fats, making them more bioavailable (i.e. more can be absorbed and used by the body).
Higher moisture in fresh diets helps digestion, reducing strain on the gut.
Better digestibility tends to result in smaller, firmer stools because more nutrients are absorbed, rather than passed.
Minimally processed foods can preserve heat-sensitive nutrients (vitamins, enzymes) that high-heat extrusion or heavy processing in kibble may degrade.
Normal changes
When you feed your pup fresh food, you may notice some of these common symptoms:
Loose stool or diarrhea
Mucus-covered stool
Partially digested grains in stool
Temporary picky eating
Mild gas
It’s completely normal to see some undigested amaranth or barley seeds in your pup’s stool. These grains are high in insoluble fiber, which isn’t fully broken down during digestion. This type of fiber plays an important role in maintaining healthy bowel movements and supporting overall gut function.
Reduce the amount of fresh food given to your pup if you notice:
Loose stool or diarrhea lasting more than a day
Occasional vomiting after meals
Noticeable changes in stool color or texture
Introducing fresh food to your pup
We recommend introducing our fresh meals gradually, starting with small portions over several days. Here’s a suggested transition schedule:
Week 1 – Use as a topper (once or twice a day, depending on how your pup responds during the first few days)
Week 2 – Mix with your pup’s regular food (50-50%)
Week 3 and beyond– Replace one full meal with our fresh meals, or serve them as a rotational option whenever you’d like
Every pup is unique, so monitor your dog’s response throughout the process. If needed, simply adjust the amount of fresh food. And always ensure your pup has access to plenty of fresh, preferably filtered, water.