Feeding Guide
Understanding Raw Feeding
Raw feeding is a diet for dogs based on raw meat, bones, and organs. People choose it to mimic a more ancestral, natural diet.
Complete vs Complementary: A complete meal contains all necessary nutrients. Complementary products (like pure tripe or boneless meats) are meant to be part of a wider, balanced diet.
Raw Food Compositions
- 25% Bone: Often used as a robust foundational component, offering significant calcium. (e.g., Chicken (25% Bone))
- 80/10/10 Complete: A widely used model: 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ. Ensure "complete" is specifically formulated. (e.g., Chicken Complete (80/10/10))
- 10% Bone: A milder bone percentage. (e.g., Beef (10% Bone))
- Boneless: Used to adjust ratios or add variety. (e.g., Tripe (Boneless))
Safe Handling & Storage
Always keep raw food frozen. Thaw in the fridge, never at room temperature. Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling. Keep raw food separate from human food.
Feeding Amounts
Amounts depend on age, weight, activity, and breed. Our calculator provides a starting estimate.
Use Feeding Calculator
Disclaimer: This feeding information is general guidance. Every dog has different nutritional requirements based on age, breed, weight, and activity level. Please consult with a qualified veterinary professional or canine nutritionist to ensure your dog's specific needs are met.
FAQ
What is raw feeding?
Raw feeding involves feeding uncooked meat, bones, and organs to simulate ancestral diets.
What does complete raw food mean?
"Complete" means the product is formulated to contain all necessary daily nutrients for the dog.
What is 80/10/10?
It is a ratio: 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organs.
What does 25% bone mean?
This indicates the product's bone content, helping you manage the total bone ratio in your dog's diet.
Why does raw food contain bone?
Bone provides essential calcium and phosphorus required for a balanced diet.
What is boneless raw food?
Food without bone, often used to balance out higher bone meals or as a tasty supplement.
What is tripe?
Tripe is the stomach lining of ruminant animals, highly palatable and rich in enzymes.
What is oily fish?
Fish like salmon or sardines, great for Omega-3s.
How do I introduce raw food?
Slowly! Start by replacing one meal or protein at a time and watch your dog's stools.
How quickly should I introduce a new protein?
Gradually, over several days, to monitor for any digestive upsets.
Should I rotate proteins?
Yes, rotating proteins ensures a wider range of amino acids and nutrients.
Can puppies eat raw food?
Yes, but they require a diet specifically balanced for rapid growth.
Can older dogs eat raw food?
Yes, many older dogs enjoy and benefit from raw food.
What if stools become loose?
This can happen with change. Slow down the introduction, or add a bit more bone.
How should raw food be stored?
Always keep frozen until needed, then thaw in the fridge.