Raw Dog Food Calculator: How Much Raw Food Should I Feed My Dog?

Calculate the right amount of raw food for your dog by entering their details below.

List of the Top 10 Best Raw Dog Food:

# Image Product Link
1 Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag View on Amazon
2 Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Dog Food, Dog Food Dry, Freeze Dried Dog Food, Raw Dog Food, Beef Recipe, 25 oz Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Dog Food, Dog Food Dry, Freeze Dried Dog Food, Raw Dog Food, Beef Recipe, 25 oz View on Amazon
3 Nature's Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal - Makes 18 Lbs Fresh Raw Food with Muscle, Organ, Bone Broth, Whole Egg, Superfoods, Fish Oil Omega 3, 6, 9, Probiotics & Prebiotics (Beef) Nature's Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal - Makes 18 Lbs Fresh Raw Food with Muscle, Organ, Bone Broth, Whole Egg, Superfoods, Fish Oil Omega 3, 6, 9, Probiotics & Prebiotics (Beef) View on Amazon
4 Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs, Includes Kibble, Bone Broth, and Freeze Dried Raw, Inspired by The Wild, Humanely Raised Protein and Non-GMO Fruits and Veggies, 3.5 lb Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs, Includes Kibble, Bone Broth, and Freeze Dried Raw, Inspired by The Wild, Humanely Raised Protein and Non-GMO Fruits and Veggies, 3.5 lb View on Amazon
5 ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Beef - All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free, Limited Ingredient w/ Superfoods (16oz) ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Beef - All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free, Limited Ingredient w/ Superfoods (16oz) View on Amazon
6 Purina ONE True Instinct With A Blend Of Real Turkey and Venison Dry Dog Food - 36 lb. Bag Purina ONE True Instinct With A Blend Of Real Turkey and Venison Dry Dog Food - 36 lb. Bag View on Amazon
7 Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Chicken and Rice Formula High Protein Dog Food - 48 lb. Bag Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Chicken and Rice Formula High Protein Dog Food - 48 lb. Bag View on Amazon
8 Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dog & Cats - Chicken Recipe, 1-lb Rolls (20 Pack) - Fresh Dog Food Made in USA, Natural Raw Diet Dog Food, Raw Frozen Dog Food & Cat Food - Meat Roll Dog Food Log Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dog & Cats - Chicken Recipe, 1-lb Rolls (20 Pack) - Fresh Dog Food Made in USA, Natural Raw Diet Dog Food, Raw Frozen Dog Food & Cat Food - Meat Roll Dog Food Log View on Amazon
9 Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food, Natural Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Kibble with Omegas + Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food, Natural Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Kibble with Omegas + Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag View on Amazon
10 Stella & Chewy's Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties – Grain Free Dog Food, Protein Rich Stella’s Super Beef Recipe – 14 oz Bag Stella & Chewy's Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties – Grain Free Dog Food, Protein Rich Stella’s Super Beef Recipe – 14 oz Bag View on Amazon

Understanding Raw Dog Food Diet

A raw dog food diet, also known as the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet, consists of uncooked meat, edible bones, organs, and vegetables. This natural approach to feeding aims to mimic what dogs would eat in the wild while providing balanced nutrition for modern domestic dogs.

Components of Raw Dog Food

Component Percentage Examples
Muscle Meat 70% Chicken breast, beef, lamb, turkey, heart, tongue
Raw Meaty Bones 10% Chicken wings, neck bones, duck feet
Organs 10% Liver (5%), kidney, spleen, pancreas (5%)
Vegetables 10% Carrots, spinach, broccoli, kelp

Benefits of Raw Feeding

Dental Health

  • Natural teeth cleaning
  • Reduced tartar buildup
  • Healthier gums
  • Fresh breath

Digestive Health

  • Improved digestion
  • Smaller, firmer stools
  • Better nutrient absorption
  • Reduced bloating

Physical Health

  • Healthier skin and coat
  • Increased energy levels
  • Better weight management
  • Stronger immune system

Behavioral Benefits

  • Increased satisfaction
  • Better appetite control
  • Mental stimulation
  • Natural eating behaviors

Types of Raw Food Diets

Diet Type Description Best For
BARF Model Includes raw meat, bones, organs, and vegetables Dogs needing complete balanced nutrition
Prey Model Whole prey animals, minimal vegetables Dogs with vegetable sensitivities
Modified BARF Raw diet with cooked vegetables Dogs with sensitive digestion
Combination Mix of raw and commercial food Beginners transitioning to raw

Safety Guidelines for Raw Feeding

  • Food Handling:
    • Use fresh, human-grade meat
    • Keep raw food frozen until use
    • Thaw in refrigerator
    • Clean preparation surfaces thoroughly
    • Wash hands before and after handling
  • Bone Safety:
    • Never feed cooked bones
    • Choose appropriate bone sizes
    • Supervise bone consumption
    • Remove sharp or splintering bones

Calculating Raw Food Portions

Factors Affecting Portion Size

Factor Impact on Portions Considerations
Age Puppies: 2-3x adult portions Growth needs, energy levels
Activity Level ±15-30% adjustment Exercise intensity, duration
Health Status Varies by condition Medical needs, restrictions
Weight Goals ±10-20% adjustment Current body condition

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start feeding raw?

Starting a raw diet requires careful planning:

  • Consult with a veterinarian
  • Start with one protein source
  • Transition gradually over 1-2 weeks
  • Monitor your dog's response
  • Add variety slowly

Is raw feeding safe for all dogs?

While raw feeding can benefit many dogs, consider these factors:

  • Individual health conditions
  • Age and immune status
  • Household circumstances
  • Owner's ability to handle raw food safely
  • Access to quality ingredients

What about bacteria in raw meat?

Managing bacterial risks involves:

  • Proper food handling and storage
  • Using fresh, quality ingredients
  • Regular cleaning of bowls and surfaces
  • Following food safety guidelines
  • Practicing good hygiene

How much does raw feeding cost?

Cost considerations include:

  • Protein source selection
  • Buying in bulk vs. small quantities
  • Local availability of ingredients
  • Storage capacity (freezer space)
  • Supplement requirements

Can I mix raw and kibble?

Mixing feeding approaches:

  • Separate raw and kibble meals by 8-12 hours
  • Consider digestive rates
  • Monitor for digestive issues
  • Maintain proper portions
  • Ensure balanced nutrition

What supplements are needed?

Common supplements in raw diets:

  • Fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids)
  • Vitamin E
  • Kelp (iodine)
  • Zinc and manganese
  • Calcium (if not feeding bones)

How do I store raw dog food?

Proper storage guidelines:

  • Keep frozen at 0°F (-18°C) or below
  • Thaw in refrigerator 24-48 hours before use
  • Use thawed food within 2-3 days
  • Clean storage containers regularly
  • Label and date all packages

What about bone safety?

Safe bone feeding practices:

  • Always feed raw, never cooked bones
  • Choose size-appropriate bones
  • Supervise bone consumption
  • Start with softer bones
  • Remove when small enough to swallow

How do I balance the diet?

Achieving nutritional balance:

  • Follow the 70/10/10/10 ratio
  • Rotate protein sources
  • Include various organ meats
  • Add appropriate vegetables
  • Consider professional guidance

What about puppies and raw feeding?

Special considerations for puppies:

  • Higher caloric needs
  • Proper calcium/phosphorus ratio
  • More frequent meals
  • Careful bone introduction
  • Growth-appropriate portions