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If you’re new to raw feeding, one of the first questions you’ll probably have is how much food your dog actually needs. It’s the most common question we get, and it’s an important one. Feed too little and your dog might lose weight or miss out on nutrients. Feed too much and you could end up with an overweight dog and unnecessary waste. That’s where a raw dog food calculator comes in handy.
A raw dog food calculator helps you estimate how much to feed your dog based on their body weight, age, and activity level. It’s a starting point that gives you confidence when switching to raw. But rather than just relying on numbers, it’s worth understanding why those numbers matter and how to adjust them to suit your dog’s individual needs.
As a general guide, adult dogs should eat around 2 to 3 percent of their ideal body weight per day in raw food. So if your dog weighs 20 kilograms, they’ll usually eat between 400 and 600 grams of raw food per day. The exact amount depends on their metabolism, lifestyle, and health.
Active dogs or those that spend a lot of time outdoors tend to need more. Older or less active dogs often need a little less. Puppies are a special case and usually need around 5 to 6 percent of their body weight as they grow. That percentage gradually reduces as they mature.
To make things simple, here’s a quick reference:
If you’re not sure where to start, begin at 2.5 percent and adjust up or down after a couple of weeks based on your dog’s body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs easily without seeing them protrude.
Once you know how much to feed, the next question is how often. We generally recommend feeding once a day. Dogs have short digestive tracts that are designed to handle large meals less frequently, just like their wolf ancestors. Feeding once a day allows the digestive system to fully rest between meals and can reduce bloating and digestive upset.
That said, some dogs do better with two meals a day, especially puppies or breeds prone to gulping food too quickly. Splitting the daily amount into two portions can make the transition easier for first-time raw feeders. There’s no hard rule here, so do what suits your dog and your routine best.
Every dog is different. Two dogs of the same breed and weight might need completely different amounts depending on their activity level and metabolism. That’s why a raw dog food calculator is a guide, not an exact science.
For example, if you’ve got a very active dog like a spaniel or collie that’s constantly on the move, you’ll likely be closer to 3 percent of body weight. But if you’ve got a laid-back dog who spends most of the day snoozing on the sofa, 2 percent is probably plenty.
It’s also worth considering seasonal changes. Dogs that spend more time outdoors in colder months burn more calories staying warm. If you notice your dog losing a little weight in winter, increase their portion slightly.
The best raw dog food calculator is your eyes and hands. Once you’ve been feeding raw for a few weeks, you’ll start to notice changes in your dog’s condition. Their coat should become glossier, their energy more stable, and their digestion more consistent.
To check if you’re feeding the right amount, run your hands along your dog’s ribs. You should be able to feel them without pressing hard, but they shouldn’t be sticking out. Their waist should be visible from above, and the area behind the ribs should gently slope inward.
If your dog starts to look too lean, increase their portion slightly. If they’re starting to look a bit round, reduce it. It’s as simple as that.
One of the biggest mistakes new raw feeders make is confusing body weight with ideal body weight. If your dog is overweight, calculating 3 percent of their current weight could result in overfeeding. Always calculate based on their target weight, not what the scales currently say.
Another common issue is changing the amount too quickly. Give your dog at least two to three weeks on a consistent portion before deciding to adjust. Dogs’ bodies need time to adapt, and sudden changes can throw off digestion.
Finally, remember that treats, bones, and extras all count. If you give your dog a large marrow bone or meaty chew during the day, reduce their meal slightly to keep the balance right.
Puppies need more frequent meals and higher portions to fuel growth. A general rule is to feed 5 to 6 percent of their body weight daily, split into two or three meals depending on age. As they approach adulthood, gradually reduce the percentage until you reach the 2 to 3 percent range for adults.
It’s also important to keep an eye on growth rates. Puppies that gain weight too quickly are more prone to joint issues later in life. You want steady, healthy development, not a chubby pup.
We know calculating portions can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out, which is why we make it easy. Each of our bundles and meal packs is clearly labelled, so you know exactly how much to feed based on your dog’s weight. You can use our raw dog food calculator online to get an instant daily amount, then simply choose the bundle that suits your dog’s size and appetite.
Our meals are designed to be nutritionally complete, with the right balance of meat, bone, and organ, so you don’t need to worry about ratios or supplements. Everything is pre-measured and frozen for freshness, ready to defrost and serve.
Raw feeding shouldn’t be complicated. Once you understand the basic percentages and get comfortable with your dog’s condition, it becomes second nature. The key is to stay consistent, make small adjustments when needed, and enjoy watching your dog thrive on a natural diet.
Using a raw dog food calculator gives you the confidence to feed correctly from day one. Combine that with high-quality British ingredients and you’ve got a diet that mirrors what dogs were built to eat.
So if you’re wondering how much to feed your dog, start with 2 to 3 percent of their ideal body weight, decide whether once or twice a day suits you both, and watch the transformation begin.
Your dog’s body will tell you everything you need to know. Feed them fresh, feed them right, and let nature do the rest.
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