How Much Raw Food Should I Feed My Dog?

One of the first questions every new raw feeder asks is, "How much should I feed?" The answer is that there isn't a single amount that suits every dog. Feeding guidelines are an excellent starting point, but every dog is an individual. Their age, breed, activity level, metabolism and body condition all affect how much food they need.

The goal isn't simply to feed a certain percentage of your dog's weight—it's to feed enough to maintain a healthy body condition.

Start with the Manufacturer's Feeding Guide

If you're feeding a complete commercial raw food, begin by following the manufacturer's recommended feeding guide. These recommendations are designed as a starting point and should be adjusted over time based on your dog's individual needs.

Regularly weighing your dog and assessing their body condition will help you decide whether to increase or reduce their daily food allowance.

Factors That Affect How Much Your Dog Needs

Every dog is different, and several factors influence the amount of food they require.

Age

Puppies need more food relative to their body weight than adult dogs because they are growing rapidly. Adult dogs generally require less, while senior dogs may need either more or less depending on their health, activity level and muscle condition.

Activity Level

A working sheepdog, agility competitor or highly active pet will usually require significantly more calories than a dog who enjoys a couple of leisurely walks each day.

Changes in activity throughout the year can also affect how much your dog needs. For example, some dogs require more food during the shooting season, while others may need less during quieter months.

Metabolism

Just like people, dogs have different metabolisms. Two dogs of the same breed and weight may require different amounts of food to maintain a healthy weight.

Neutering

Some dogs become more efficient at storing energy after neutering, meaning they may require slightly fewer calories. Others show little or no change. Monitor your dog's body condition and adjust portions if necessary.

Health

Medical conditions can influence appetite, digestion and nutritional requirements. Dogs with illnesses such as kidney disease, pancreatitis or diabetes should only have their diet changed under veterinary guidance.

Percentage Feeding Guides

Many raw feeders use a percentage of their dog's body weight as a starting point.

Typical adult guidelines are:

These percentages are guides only. They should always be adjusted according to your dog's body condition rather than followed rigidly.

Feeding Puppies

Puppies should be fed a diet suitable for growth, ensuring they receive the correct balance of nutrients throughout development.

Puppies also need feeding more frequently than adult dogs. As they grow, the number of meals each day can gradually be reduced.

Steady, controlled growth is healthier than rapid growth, particularly in large and giant breeds.

Feeding Senior Dogs

Growing older doesn't automatically mean a dog needs less food.

Some senior dogs become less active and require fewer calories to prevent weight gain. Others lose muscle mass, become less efficient at absorbing nutrients or have health conditions that increase their nutritional needs.

Continue to monitor your dog's weight, muscle condition and overall health, adjusting their food as needed in consultation with your veterinary surgeon if appropriate.

Body Condition Is More Important Than Weight Alone

The scales only tell part of the story.

A healthy dog should generally:

• Have ribs that are easy to feel but not prominently visible (breed dependent).

• Have a visible waist when viewed from above.

• Have an abdominal tuck when viewed from the side.

• Maintain good muscle condition.

If your dog is gradually gaining weight, reduce their daily food allowance slightly. If they are losing weight unintentionally, increase it gradually and investigate any underlying cause if the problem persists.

Your hands and eyes are often more useful than the numbers on the scales.

Don't Forget Treats

Treats, chews and training rewards all contribute to your dog's daily calorie intake.

If your dog regularly receives treats, you may need to reduce their meal size slightly to maintain a healthy body condition.

Natural treats can be a valuable part of a balanced diet but should still be fed sensibly.

Common Questions

My dog always seems hungry.

Some dogs are naturally enthusiastic eaters and would happily eat more regardless of how much they're fed. Before increasing portions, assess their body condition. If they're maintaining a healthy weight and condition, they may simply enjoy their meals.

My dog has gained weight.

Gradually reduce the daily food allowance by around 5–10% and continue monitoring body condition over the following few weeks. Also consider any changes in exercise levels or the number of treats being fed.

My dog has lost weight.

Increase food gradually while monitoring their condition. If weight loss is unexpected, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy, seek veterinary advice.

Should I feed by weight or body condition?

Both are useful, but body condition should always guide feeding decisions. Manufacturer recommendations and percentage guides provide a starting point, while your dog's appearance, muscle condition and overall health determine whether adjustments are needed.

Key Takeaways

• Start with the manufacturer's feeding guide.

• Every dog is an individual.

• Monitor body condition rather than relying solely on percentages.

• Adjust food gradually as your dog's needs change.

• Puppies, seniors and dogs with medical conditions have different nutritional requirements.

• Ask your veterinary surgeon or a suitably qualified nutrition professional if you're unsure.

Further Reading

For more information on feeding amounts and balanced nutrition, visit:

• Raw Feeding For Dogs Made Simple (RFFDMS UK)

• Raw Pet Medics

• The Raw Feeding Veterinary Society (RFVS)

• The Balanced Canine

Disclaimer: This guide is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace veterinary advice. If your dog has a medical condition, is under veterinary care or is losing or gaining weight unexpectedly, consult your veterinary surgeon before making significant dietary changes.