Your Dog’s Daily Feeding Plan
Daily Nutritional Breakdown
How to Use This Calculator
This calculator provides personalised feeding guidance based on your dog’s specific characteristics. Follow these steps to get accurate results:
- Select your dog’s age category. Puppies have different nutritional requirements compared to adult dogs, requiring higher percentages of body weight.
- Enter your dog’s current weight in kilograms. For accuracy, weigh your dog using bathroom scales by weighing yourself first, then holding your dog and subtracting the difference.
- Choose the activity level that best matches your dog’s daily routine. More active dogs require additional calories to maintain their energy levels.
- Identify your body condition goal. If your dog needs to lose or gain weight, the calculator adjusts portions accordingly.
- Select your dog’s breed size, as smaller breeds typically have faster metabolisms and may require higher percentages relative to their body weight.
- Click the calculate button to receive your customised feeding plan with detailed nutritional breakdown.
Raw Feeding Principles
The 80-10-10 Rule
Raw feeding follows a balanced approach based on what dogs would naturally consume in the wild. The standard ratio consists of 80% muscle meat, 10% raw meaty bones, and 10% organ meat (with half being liver). This calculator further breaks down these components for precise portion control.
Daily Percentage Guidelines
Adult dogs typically require 2-3% of their body weight daily in raw food. However, several factors influence this percentage:
- Small breeds often need 3-4% due to faster metabolisms
- Large and giant breeds may thrive on 2-2.5%
- Active working dogs might require 3-4% or more
- Senior dogs with reduced activity may need 1.5-2%
- Puppies require 5-10% depending on age and growth rate
Puppy Feeding Stages
Puppies have rapidly changing nutritional needs as they grow:
- 3-4 weeks: 8-10% of body weight, three meals daily
- 2-3 months: 6-8% of body weight, three meals daily
- 3-6 months: 5-6% of body weight, three meals daily
- 6-12 months: 3-4% of body weight, two meals daily
- Over 12 months: Transition to adult percentages
Nutritional Components Explained
Muscle Meat (70%)
The foundation of a raw diet, muscle meat provides essential proteins and amino acids. Suitable options include beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, duck, venison, and rabbit. Variety is key to providing a full spectrum of nutrients.
Raw Meaty Bones (10%)
These provide calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals whilst also offering dental benefits. Appropriate choices include chicken wings, duck necks, turkey necks, lamb ribs, and beef ribs. Always supervise bone consumption and never feed cooked bones.
Organ Meat (10%)
Often called “nature’s multivitamin,” organ meats are nutrient-dense. The allocation includes 5% liver (packed with vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron) and 5% other secreting organs such as kidney, spleen, pancreas, or brain.
Vegetables and Supplements (5%)
Whilst not essential, small amounts of pureed vegetables can provide additional fibre and phytonutrients. Suitable options include carrots, broccoli, spinach, and pumpkin. Some owners also add fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids.
Feeding Schedule Recommendations
| Age Group | Meals Per Day | Feeding Times | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppies (3-6 months) | 3 meals | Morning, midday, evening | Consistent schedule supports training and digestion |
| Puppies (6-12 months) | 2 meals | Morning, evening | Begin transitioning to adult portions |
| Adult Dogs | 1-2 meals | Morning and/or evening | Two meals often better for larger breeds |
| Senior Dogs | 2 meals | Morning, evening | Smaller portions easier to digest |
| Working Dogs | 2 meals | After exercise, not before | Prevent bloat and digestive issues |
Transitioning to Raw Feeding
Quick Transition Method
For dogs with robust digestive systems, a fast switch works well. Fast your dog for 12-24 hours, then begin feeding raw food exclusively. This method is suitable for most healthy adult dogs.
Gradual Transition Method
For dogs with sensitive stomachs or those transitioning from highly processed diets, a slower approach may be preferable:
- Days 1-3: 25% raw, 75% previous food
- Days 4-6: 50% raw, 50% previous food
- Days 7-9: 75% raw, 25% previous food
- Day 10 onwards: 100% raw
What to Expect During Transition
During the switch to raw feeding, you may observe several changes:
- Smaller, firmer stools that decompose quickly
- Reduced stool frequency
- Increased water consumption initially
- Temporary digestive upset (usually mild and brief)
- Improved energy levels within 2-4 weeks
- Shinier coat after 4-8 weeks
Adjusting Portions for Weight Management
For Weight Loss
If your dog needs to slim down, reduce daily portions by 0.5% of body weight. For example, if feeding 3%, reduce to 2.5%. Reassess after two weeks and adjust further if needed. Aim for gradual weight loss of 1-2% body weight per week.
For Weight Gain
Underweight dogs may need increased portions or higher percentages. Start by increasing by 0.5% and monitor progress. Some dogs may need 4-5% temporarily. Address any underlying health issues that might cause poor weight gain.
For Maintenance
Once your dog reaches ideal weight, fine-tune portions to maintain it. Regular weighing (weekly for puppies, monthly for adults) helps catch changes early. Adjust portions seasonally as activity levels change.
Common Questions Answered
Breed-Specific Considerations
Small Breeds
Toy and small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians have faster metabolisms. They typically require 3-4% of body weight daily. Their smaller jaw size means meat should be cut into appropriate pieces, and bones should be sized correctly to prevent choking.
Medium Breeds
Breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, and Beagles usually thrive on 2.5-3% of body weight. These versatile dogs adapt well to raw feeding and often show rapid improvements in coat quality and energy levels.
Large Breeds
Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers benefit greatly from raw feeding, particularly for joint health. Feed 2-2.5% of body weight. Large breed puppies require careful monitoring to prevent too-rapid growth, which can cause skeletal problems.
Giant Breeds
Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Irish Wolfhounds need special attention. Feed 2-2.5% for adults. Giant breed puppies should be fed lower percentages (4-5% maximum) to promote slow, steady growth. Avoid overfeeding, which can exacerbate joint issues.
Brachycephalic Breeds
Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs benefit from raw feeding but may need ground meat or smaller pieces due to their jaw structure. Monitor during bone consumption to prevent choking.
Seasonal Feeding Adjustments
Winter Feeding
Dogs may require slightly more food during colder months, especially those spending time outdoors. Increase portions by 10-15% for outdoor working dogs. Indoor dogs typically need no adjustment.
Summer Feeding
Many dogs eat less during hot weather, which is normal. Consider offering frozen raw food portions as cooling treats. Maintain hydration by providing fresh water constantly.
Activity-Based Adjustments
Increase portions during periods of increased activity (e.g., hunting season, agility competitions). Working dogs may need 4-5% during intensive work periods. Return to normal portions during rest periods.
Cost Comparison Analysis
| Dog Weight | Daily Raw Food Amount | Approximate Monthly Cost (Budget Range) | Approximate Monthly Cost (Premium Range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5kg (Small) | 150-200g | £30-£45 | £55-£75 |
| 15kg (Medium) | 375-525g | £70-£100 | £130-£180 |
| 30kg (Large) | 600-900g | £120-£175 | £220-£300 |
| 50kg (Giant) | 1000-1250g | £180-£240 | £320-£420 |
Whilst raw feeding may appear more expensive than budget kibble, many owners report reduced veterinary bills due to improved health. Buying in bulk, sourcing directly from suppliers, and preparing food yourself can significantly reduce costs.
Signs of Correct Feeding
Positive Indicators
- Healthy, shiny coat with reduced shedding
- Clean teeth with minimal tartar buildup
- Fresh breath without offensive odour
- Small, firm stools that are easy to pick up
- Consistent energy levels throughout the day
- Ideal body condition score (ribs easily felt, visible waist)
- Clear, bright eyes without discharge
- Healthy skin without excessive dryness or greasiness
Signs of Overfeeding
- Weight gain or inability to feel ribs easily
- Loss of visible waist
- Lethargy or reduced activity
- Leaving food in bowl regularly
- Loose stools
Signs of Underfeeding
- Ribs, spine, or hip bones prominently visible
- Loss of muscle mass
- Excessive hunger or food-seeking behaviour
- Low energy or weakness
- Dull, dry coat
Safety and Hygiene Practices
Food Preparation Safety
- Designate separate cutting boards and utensils for raw dog food
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat
- Clean preparation surfaces with hot, soapy water followed by disinfectant
- Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator, never on countertops
- Discard any food left at room temperature for over 30 minutes
Feeding Area Hygiene
- Wash feeding bowls after each meal with hot, soapy water
- Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls (easier to clean than plastic)
- Establish a designated feeding area that’s easy to clean
- Pick up any dropped food immediately
- Consider feeding outdoors or on washable mats
Storage Guidelines
- Keep frozen food at -18°C or below
- Label containers with contents and date
- Use oldest stock first (first in, first out)
- Store raw dog food separately from human food in freezer
- Once thawed, keep refrigerated and use within 2-3 days