How Much Raw Food Should I Feed My Dog?

One of the most common questions new raw feeders ask is: “How much raw food should I feed my dog?” Getting the portion size right is important to keep your dog happy, healthy, and full of energy. Feed too little, and your dog may lose weight. Feed too much, and they could quickly become overweight.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of raw feeding portions, how to calculate the right amount for your dog, and tips to adjust along the way.

The General Rule of Thumb

Most raw feeding experts recommend feeding your dog 2–3% of their body weight per day.

Less active or older dogs: closer to 2%
Active dogs or working breeds: closer to 3%
Puppies: often need more, between 5–8% of their body weight while they’re growing

For example:

A 20kg adult dog → 2% = 400g raw food per day
A 20kg very active dog → 3% = 600g raw food per day

Factors That Affect Feeding Amounts

Every dog is different, so you’ll need to adjust based on your dog’s individual needs. Factors to consider include:

Age: Puppies and young dogs burn more calories.
Breed: Some breeds have faster metabolisms.
Activity level: A working collie will need more food than a lap-loving bulldog.
Health: Dogs recovering from illness, pregnancy, or with certain conditions may need different portions.

Monitoring Your Dog’s Weight

The best way to know if you’re feeding the right amount is to keep an eye on your dog’s body condition.

You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs.
They should have a visible waist when viewed from above.
If they’re gaining weight, reduce the portion slightly. If they’re losing too much, increase it.

Make small adjustments of 5–10% and reassess after a couple of weeks.

Raw Feeding Puppies

Puppies grow quickly and need extra calories to support healthy development. Instead of one large meal, divide their daily portion into 3–4 smaller meals. Aim for 5–8% of their body weight per day, adjusting as they grow.

Using a Raw Food Calculator

If maths isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Betsy’s Raw Food offer an easy raw food calculator. Simply enter your dog’s weight, age, and activity level, and it will work out the right portion size for you.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “How much raw food should I feed my dog?” but starting with 2–3% of your dog’s body weight per day is a great guideline. From there, monitor their condition and adjust as needed.

Switching to raw is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s health. With the right portions, they’ll thrive on a natural, nutritious diet.

FAQs About Feeding Raw Food to Dogs

Can I feed raw food once a day?

Yes, many adult dogs do well on one meal a day. However, some owners prefer to split portions into two smaller meals to avoid hunger and aid digestion. Puppies should always have multiple meals throughout the day.

Do puppies need more raw food than adults?

Absolutely. Puppies require 5–8% of their body weight per day while they’re growing. As they mature, this gradually decreases to the standard 2–3% rule for adults.

How do I transition my dog from kibble to raw?

Most experts recommend a straight switch rather than mixing. Start by offering a small portion of raw for the first meal, monitor digestion, then gradually build up to the full daily allowance over a week.

Can raw feeding help my dog lose weight?

Yes. Raw diets are often higher in protein and lower in carbs, which can help with weight management. If your dog is overweight, feed closer to 2% of their body weight and monitor progress.

Is it safe to feed bones as part of a raw diet?

Yes, provided they are raw, not cooked. Raw meaty bones are a natural part of a dog’s diet and help keep teeth clean. Always supervise your dog when feeding bones.