One of the first questions many pet parents ask us has to do with… poop. Yes, your dog’s poop! Stool quality comes up more often than you’d think—especially when switching from kibble to fresh dog food.
Kibble usually has only about 10% moisture compared to 70–80% in fresh dog food. Dogs on kibble often pass drier, firmer stools because their digestive system has to pull more water from the colon. Many commercial kibble formulas also use fillers such as beet pulp, corn, soy, or cellulose. These ingredients bulk up stool and can make it firmer—sometimes too firm
Pet parents often assume that “hard poop = healthy poop,” but that’s not always true. Hard stool in dogs can actually signal dehydration, insufficient moisture in the diet, or excessive low-quality fillers.
So yes, dry kibble is a big reason why poop on fresh food looks different. Fresh-fed dogs typically produce smaller, softer, moister stools that still hold their shape. Ideally, your dog’s poop should be firm enough to pick up, but never rock-hard.
When you switch from kibble to a fresh food diet for dogs, stool changes are common. Fresh food is naturally higher in moisture, protein, and whole ingredients. This shift can surprise your dog’s digestive system—especially if they’ve been eating dry pellets their whole life.
Some dogs adjust right away with no issues. Others may experience soft stool, a looser texture, or changes in frequency. This doesn’t mean fresh food is “bad”—it means your dog’s gut is readjusting to real food.
Think of it like playing Chess: sometimes you move forward, sometimes you pull back, sometimes you pause. The key is to watch your dog’s poop and adjust during the transition.
Mild diarrhoea or slightly softer poop is normal. If you notice this, don’t panic. Reduce the amount of fresh food temporarily. Reintroduce more of their usual food. Once things settle, slowly increase the fresh portion and try again.
But certain signs require more caution: Watery diarrhoea in dogs. Reddish-brown poop (may signal blood). Persistent upset stomach or vomiting. These could mean the transition is moving too fast, and may require a vet check-up.
For dogs with sensitive stomachs or senior dogs, go especially slow. Transition over several weeks rather than just a few days.
Switching to fresh food is like training a puppy—it takes patience, a few adjustments, and sometimes even a mop. But hang in there. Your dog’s gut will catch up, their poop will stabilise, and you’ll both enjoy the benefits of healthier digestion and better overall wellness.
At the end of the day, good dog poop is just the beginning of good health.
Paws out,
Sara 