Raw Dog Food Calculator
Calculate the perfect daily raw food portions for your dog based on British feeding guidelines
Daily Raw Food Calculator
Daily Raw Food Recommendation
Raw Feeding Guidelines
General Rule: Feed adult dogs 2-3% of their body weight daily in raw food. Puppies require higher percentages based on their age and growth rate.
Puppy Feeding Chart
| Age (Weeks) | Percentage of Body Weight | Meals Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| 8-10 weeks | 8-10% | 4-5 |
| 10-16 weeks | 7-8% | 3-4 |
| 16-20 weeks | 6-7% | 3 |
| 20-24 weeks | 5-6% | 3 |
| 24-36 weeks | 4-5% | 2-3 |
| 36-56 weeks | 3-4% | 2 |
| 56-68 weeks | 2.5-3.5% | 2 |
| Adult (68+ weeks) | 2-3% | 1-2 |
BARF Diet Composition
The BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet should consist of balanced proportions to meet your dog’s nutritional needs:
| Component | Percentage | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Meat | 70-80% | Beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, venison |
| Raw Edible Bone | 10-15% | Chicken necks, lamb ribs, beef ribs |
| Liver | 5% | Beef liver, chicken liver, lamb liver |
| Other Organs | 5% | Kidney, heart, spleen, lungs |
| Vegetables & Fruits | 5-10% | Carrots, broccoli, apples, berries |
Transitioning to Raw Food
Gradual Transition Method
Most dogs benefit from a gradual 7-day transition to prevent digestive upset:
| Day | Current Food | Raw Food |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | 75% | 25% |
| 3-4 | 50% | 50% |
| 5-6 | 25% | 75% |
| 7+ | 0% | 100% |
Important: Monitor your dog closely during transition. Some dogs may experience softer stools initially as their digestive system adapts.
Storage and Safety Guidelines
Proper Storage
- Store raw food in freezer at -18°C or below
- Defrost portions in refrigerator 12-24 hours before feeding
- Use defrosted food within 48 hours
- Never refreeze previously frozen raw food
Food Safety
- Source from reputable UK suppliers with proper food safety standards
- Maintain strict hygiene when handling raw meat
- Clean and disinfect feeding bowls after each meal
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw food
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I weigh my dog?
Weigh adult dogs monthly and puppies weekly to monitor growth and adjust portions accordingly. Use bathroom scales by weighing yourself first, then holding your dog and subtracting the difference.
Can I mix raw food with kibble?
Whilst not harmful, it’s best to feed raw and kibble separately as they digest at different rates. Raw food digests faster than processed kibble, which may cause digestive discomfort if fed together.
What if my dog refuses raw food?
Some dogs need time to adapt. Try lightly cooking the meat initially, then gradually reducing cooking time. Mixing with familiar flavours or warming the food slightly can also help acceptance.
Are supplements needed with raw feeding?
A balanced raw diet typically provides all necessary nutrients. However, consult your veterinarian about specific supplements like fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids, especially during winter months in the UK.
How do I know if my dog is getting the right amount?
Monitor your dog’s body condition score. You should be able to feel the ribs easily without seeing them prominently. Adjust portions based on weight changes and energy levels.
Signs of Proper Nutrition
A well-fed dog on a balanced raw diet should exhibit:
- Shiny, healthy coat with minimal shedding
- Bright, clear eyes
- Healthy weight with visible waist tuck
- Good energy levels and alertness
- Smaller, firmer stools that decompose quickly
- Clean teeth with minimal tartar buildup
- Strong, healthy nails
Consult Your Veterinarian: Always discuss dietary changes with your vet, especially for dogs with health conditions, allergies, or special dietary requirements.
References
- British Small Animal Veterinary Association. (2018). Raw meat diets for dogs and cats. BSAVA Position Statement.
- Freeman, L. M., Chandler, M. L., Hamper, B. A., & Weeth, L. P. (2013). Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat-based diets for dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 243(11), 1549-1558.
- European Pet Food Industry Federation. (2021). Nutritional Guidelines for Complete and Complementary Pet Food. FEDIAF.
- Association of American Feed Control Officials. (2020). Model Regulations for Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food Under the Model Bill. AAFCO.
- Hand, M. S., Thatcher, C. D., Remillard, R. L., Roudebush, P., & Novotny, B. J. (Eds.). (2010). Small Animal Clinical Nutrition. Mark Morris Institute.