Use the calculator below to find out how much natural dog food you should be feeding your dog daily!
How to find out what is your dog’s ideal weight?
Every dog is different, and each breed has its own set of ideal proportions. However, there are a few general rules that you can follow to help you determine whether your dog is at a healthy weight.
First, take a look at your dog from above. You should be able to see a waistline, and the chest should be narrower than the hips. Next, feel along your dog’s ribs. You should be able to feel them without too much effort, but they shouldn’t be protruding.
Finally, check your dog’s body condition score by running your hands along their sides. If you can easily feel their ribs and there is no noticeable waistline, then they are likely too thin. If you cannot feel their ribs and there is a large amount of padding over their sides, then they are likely too heavy. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to tell whether your dog is at their ideal weight just by looking and feeling them.
Here are some of the most common dog breeds and the average weight for a healthy adult dog:
| Breed | Average Weight (lbs) |
| Labrador Retriever | 55-80 |
| Golden Retriever | 65-75 |
| Bulldog | 50-55 |
| Beagle | 20-30 |
| Poodle | 40-70 |
| German Shepherd | 75-95 |
| Rottweiler | 100-130 |
| Doberman Pinscher | 60-80 |
| Boxer | 70-85 |
If you’re still not sure whether your dog is at a healthy weight, you can always consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to give you a more specific range that is ideal for your dog’s breed, age, and activity level.
How the calculation works
Determining how much natural dog food to feed your pet can be tricky. You want to make sure they’re getting enough nutrients, but you don’t want to overdo it and cause them to gain weight.
A good rule of thumb is to feed them 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day. For example, a 50lb dog should eat 1-1.5lbs of food per day, assuming they have a regular level of activity.
Low activity dogs, such as those that are older or less active, may only need 1-2% of their ideal body weight. For example, a 10lb senior dog would only need 0.1-0.2lbs of food per day.
High activity dogs, such as trained or working dogs, may need up to 3-4% of their ideal body weight. For example, a 50lb dog could eat 1.5-3 lbs of food per day.
Puppies, on the other hand, may need up to 5-6% of their ideal body weight during their first few months of life. After they reach adulthood, they can be gradually transitioned to the 2-3% rule.
Now that you know how much food your dog needs, you can use our calculator to figure out the right amount of raw dog food to feed them each day. Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline, and you may need to adjust the amount up or down based on your dog’s individual needs
Recommended mix of meat vs. vegetables
The average raw diet for dogs consists of 60-80% meat, 10-20% vegetables, and 5-10% organs. However, the exact mix will vary depending on your dog’s individual needs.
For example, growing puppies or pregnant/nursing mothers may need a higher percentage of meat in their diet to support their rapid growth or high energy needs. On the other hand, older dogs or those with health conditions may benefit from a diet that is lower in meat and higher in vegetables.
For more information, check our articles on which vegetables are safe for dogs to eat and how much meat should be in a raw diet.
How to transition your dog to a raw or natural diet
If you’re interested in switching your dog to a raw or natural diet, it’s important to do so gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach. Start by mixing a small amount of raw food into their usual kibble or canned food. Use our raw dog food calculator, and slowly increase the amount of raw food over the course of a week or two until they are eating an all-raw diet.
In conclusion, understanding how to calculate raw dog food is essential for pet owners considering a raw food diet. It’s crucial to take into account the dog’s weight, whether they’re puppies or adult dogs, and how much food they require daily. The feeding guidelines provided here are a general rule of thumb and may need adjustments based on your dog’s individual needs and activity levels.
The raw feeding practice is not just about serving meat but includes vegetables and organs in a balanced ratio. Remember that transitioning to a raw diet should be gradual to avoid digestive discomfort.
Lastly, keep in mind the budget calculations. A raw diet can be more costly than commercial dog food, but with careful planning and sourcing, it can be made affordable.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your dog receives a nutritious, balanced diet that caters to their unique dietary needs. Always consult your vet before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. Happy feeding!