One of the most common questions we hear from new raw feeders is: "How much should I actually feed?" It's a great question, and the answer is simpler than you might think. Raw feeding is based on a percentage of your dog's body weight, which means portions scale naturally to your dog's size. Here's everything you need to know.
The Golden Rule: 2–3% of Body Weight Per Day
For healthy adult dogs, the general guideline is to feed 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day, split across two meals. So for a 20kg dog, that's roughly 400–600g of raw food per day.
Use this as your starting point, then adjust based on your dog's individual needs:
- More active dogs, working breeds, or dogs that tend to be lean may need closer to 3%
- Less active dogs, older dogs, or those prone to weight gain may do better at 2% or slightly below
- Always go by your dog's ideal body weight, not their current weight if they are over or underweight
Adult Dog Feeding Guide
| Dog Weight | Daily Amount (2%) | Daily Amount (2.5%) | Daily Amount (3%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5kg | 100g | 125g | 150g |
| 10kg | 200g | 250g | 300g |
| 15kg | 300g | 375g | 450g |
| 20kg | 400g | 500g | 600g |
| 25kg | 500g | 625g | 750g |
| 30kg | 600g | 750g | 900g |
| 40kg | 800g | 1000g | 1200g |
| 50kg | 1000g | 1250g | 1500g |
Puppies: Feed More, More Often
| Puppy Age | Daily Amount (% of body weight) | Meals Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| 4–8 weeks (weaning) | 8–10% | 4–5 |
| 2–3 months | 8–10% | 4 |
| 3–6 months | 6–8% | 3–4 |
| 6–12 months | 4–6% | 2–3 |
| 12+ months (large breeds) | 3–4% | 2 |
Puppies grow fast, so weigh them regularly and adjust portions as they grow. Large and giant breeds may take up to 18–24 months to reach full adult size, so keep feeding at puppy rates until they're fully grown.
We always recommend consulting your vet when feeding puppies, particularly during weaning or if you have any concerns about growth and development.
Senior Dogs
Older dogs are often less active and may have slower metabolisms, so they typically need slightly less food — around 1.5–2% of body weight per day. However, senior dogs with health conditions, muscle wastage, or higher energy needs may require more. Watch their body condition closely and adjust accordingly.
How to Tell If You're Feeding the Right Amount
- Feel your dog's ribs easily without pressing hard, but not see them prominently
- See a visible waist when looking down from above
- See a slight abdominal tuck when viewed from the side
What About Treats and Chews?
Don't forget to factor in any treats or chews your dog receives throughout the day. Natural treats like those in our Natural Treats range are nutrient-dense, so a little goes a long way. If your dog has a particularly treat-heavy day, reduce their main meal slightly to compensate.
Ready to Get Started?
Our Raw Food collection features a full range of complete raw minces from Southcliffe — 100% British, fully traceable, and perfectly balanced.
New to raw? Start with our guide on how to transition your dog to raw feeding for a smooth, stress-free switch.
Continue Reading
- Why Raw? The Real Benefits of Raw Feeding for Dogs
- How to Transition Your Dog to Raw Feeding
- Choosing the Right Protein for Your Dog
- Raw Feeding for Cats and Small Animals
- Raw Frozen Treats — A Natural Reward for Every Pet
- Whole Prey Feeding: What It Is and Why Raw Feeders Love It
- Enriching Your Dog's Raw Diet: Eggs, Fruit, Veg & Supplements
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