Feeding a raw diet for dogs can be healthy when done correctly, but it requires planning to ensure your dog gets balanced nutrition. Here’s a beginner-friendly guideline to help you start safely. 🐕
1. Understand What “Raw Feeding” Means
Raw feeding usually includes:
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Raw muscle meat
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Raw edible bones
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Organs
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Small amounts of vegetables or fruit (optional)
Many people follow the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food).
The BARF diet is designed to mimic what dogs’ ancestors ate in the wild.
2. Basic Raw Feeding Ratio
A common beginner guideline:
80 / 10 / 10 rule
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80% muscle meat
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10% raw edible bones
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10% organs
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Half of this should be liver
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Example meal:
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Chicken thigh (meat + bone)
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Beef chunks
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Beef liver
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Kidney or spleen
3. Start Simple
Begin with one protein source for 1–2 weeks.
Good starter proteins:
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Chicken
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Turkey
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Duck
Avoid mixing many meats at the beginning to help identify digestive issues.
4. Portion Size
General guideline:
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Adult dogs:
Feed 2–3% of body weight per day
Example:
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20 kg dog
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2.5% daily food = 500 g per day
Split into 1–2 meals daily.
5. Raw Bones Safety
Use raw edible bones only.
Safe examples:
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Chicken necks
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Chicken wings
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Duck necks
Never feed:
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Cooked bones (they splinter)
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Large weight-bearing bones from cows
6. Add Organs Slowly
Organs are very rich.
Introduce gradually to avoid diarrhea:
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Start with small amounts
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Build up to 10% of the diet
Common organs:
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Liver
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Kidney
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Spleen
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Heart (counts as muscle meat)
7. Optional Add-Ons
Some owners add small extras:
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Eggs
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Sardines
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Plain yogurt
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Pumpkin
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Blueberries
These are optional but can provide nutrients.
8. Transition Slowly
If switching from kibble:
7–10 day transition
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Day 1–3: 25% raw / 75% old food
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Day 4–6: 50% raw / 50% old food
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Day 7–9: 75% raw / 25% old food
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Day 10: 100% raw
Some dogs can switch instantly, but beginners should transition gradually.
9. Food Safety
Raw feeding requires hygiene:
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Freeze meat for 3–7 days before feeding
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Wash bowls after every meal
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Clean surfaces
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Store raw meat properly
This reduces risk of bacteria like Salmonella.
10. Watch Your Dog’s Condition
Healthy signs:
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Shiny coat
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Good energy
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Small, firm stools
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Healthy weight
If you notice:
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Persistent diarrhea
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Weight loss
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Lethargy
Consult a veterinarian.
✅ Tip for beginners: Many people start with commercial pre-balanced raw meals to avoid mistakes.