Raw feeding amounts by weight
| Dog weight | 2% per day | 2.5% per day | 3% per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | 91 g (3.2 oz) | 113 g (4.0 oz) | 136 g (4.8 oz) |
| 20 lb | 181 g (6.4 oz) | 227 g (8.0 oz) | 272 g (9.6 oz) |
| 30 lb | 272 g (9.6 oz) | 340 g (12.0 oz) | 408 g (14.4 oz) |
| 40 lb | 363 g (12.8 oz) | 454 g (16.0 oz) | 544 g (19.2 oz) |
| 50 lb | 454 g (16.0 oz) | 567 g (20.0 oz) | 680 g (24.0 oz) |
| 60 lb | 544 g (19.2 oz) | 680 g (24.0 oz) | 816 g (28.8 oz) |
| 80 lb | 726 g (25.6 oz) | 907 g (32.0 oz) | 1089 g (38.4 oz) |
| 100 lb | 907 g (32.0 oz) | 1134 g (40.0 oz) | 1361 g (48.0 oz) |
Percent of body weight vs calories
The percentage method is easy, but raw foods vary a lot in calories. Fatty minces can have twice the energy of lean ones. If your dog gains or loses weight on the percentage method, switch to calories: use the calculator's normal mode with the kcal per pound or kg on your raw food's label.
Safety notes
Raw meat can carry Salmonella, Listeria and E. coli, which affect both pets and people. The FDA and AVMA advise against raw diets, especially in homes with young children, elderly or immunocompromised people. If you do feed raw, use a commercial complete-and-balanced product or a recipe from a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Wash hands, bowls and surfaces after every meal.
Frequently asked questions
How much raw food should I feed my dog a day?
Start at 2.5% of ideal body weight for a typical adult: about 1 lb (450 g) per day for a 40 lb dog. Less active or overweight dogs may need 2%, very active dogs 3% or more.
How much raw food does a puppy need?
Puppies are often fed 5 to 8% of their current weight, or about 2 to 3% of their expected adult weight, split into 3 to 4 meals. Raw diets for puppies must be carefully balanced for calcium and phosphorus, so work with a vet nutritionist.