How much raw food does my dog need?
A simple way to work out a starting portion, and how to tell if it’s right.
3 min read
Most raw feeding starts from one number: a share of your dog’s ideal body weight, fed each day. For adult dogs that share usually sits between 2 and 3%.
Start with the percentage
A quieter adult dog might do well on 2%. A typical, moderately active dog sits around 2.5%. Working dogs and very active dogs may need 3% or more. Older dogs often need a little less than they did in their prime.
For a 45 lb dog at 2.5%, that’s a little over 1 lb (about 510 g) a day. Our feeding calculator does the math for you.
Puppies are different
Growing puppies eat far more for their size than adults, and their needs change quickly from month to month. Use any calculator as a rough guide only, and check in with your vet.
Let your dog have the final word
Weigh your dog every couple of weeks. You should be able to feel their ribs easily without seeing them. If they’re gaining, trim the portion a little. If they’re losing, add a little. Small changes, then wait and see.
