Basics of the Raw Food Diet for Dogs

There has been so much talk about the benefits of feeding dogs a Raw Diet, otherwise known as the BARF Diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food Diet), but few beginners take the time to consider the nutritional requirements of the diet. Most assume it is just plopping meat into a dog bowl. We have scoured the web and trusted sites and data to bring you simple, correct information to help you.

The BARF diet consists of Raw ingredients, meat included. Most ingredients are not cooked to preserve the nutrient content- minerals, vitamins, enzymes, etc. These nutrients can be gathered in balance from a fairly straight forward formula of ingredients, that beginners can use to navigate the start of their pet food journey.

The formula will include:

Meat Protein

Bones, both whole and ground/powdered.

Organ meat

Raw eggs and shells

Fruits and vegetables

Diary

Supplements as needed

So, how much food does a dog need when it comes to a Raw Diet? While the daily requirements will vary based on life stage, activity level, and weight needs- the simplest answer is 2-4% of the dog's ideal body weight. So, to determine needs we will multiply the dog's weight by the percentage required. Since most adult dogs are fed twice a day, divide the amount in two.

For Adults:

Weight Maintenace 2-2.5% x current weight per day

Active Dogs 3-4% x current weight per day

Low Activity 1.5-2% x current weight per day

Underweight 3-3.5% x current weight per day

Remember to divide the daily total in to two meals!

For Puppies:

2-3 months 8-10% x current weight

4-5 months 6-8% x current weight

6-8 months 4-6% x current weight

9-12 months 3-4% x current weight

We are dividing the daily total into four meals until 9 months, where we transition to 3 meals, and at 12 months the puppy can begin eating 2 meals a day as adults dogs. Puppies have higher caloric requirements than adults, so don't worry that a smaller dog is eating the same amount as an adult.

Let's use a 50lb dog as an example:

A 2 yr old active dog: 50 lbs. x 3% = 1.5 lbs. of food daily divided by 2= is 12 oz or 1.5 c per meal

A 5mo old puppy: 50 lbs. x 6%= 3lbs of food daily divided by 4= is 12 oz or 1.5c per meal

Now that we have the basics of HOW MUCH food is in a meal, let's discuss what that meal should consist of!

The basic formula for Meals is:

70% Lean Muscle Meats, with fat content staying below 20%

10% Raw Bones

5% Liver, any species

5% Organ Meat, any species and any organ other than liver

10% Fruits and Vegetables

Add in Raw Eggs, Powdered eggshells, yogurt, cottage cheese.

While fish and veggies can be cooked, it is preferable that ingredients not be cooked. To ensure that parasites are killed, ingredients should be frozen for 2-3 weeks.

It is important to always remember food safety when feeding raw. Meals and/or the ingredients should be frozen for 2-3 weeks before feeding to ensure any parasites or toxins have been killed. Once thawed refrigerated food should be discarded after 2 days and any uneaten food that was placed out should be discarded within 3 hrs. Serve food in a stainless steel bowl to slow the growth of organisms. Offer fresh water in a sanitized bowl if water is served with/near food.

While there are many health benefits linked to a Raw diet, remember any changes in diet can be a shock to the digestive system. Vets recommend taking an at-home allergy test before chosing which ingredients to add to your pet's diet. Liver can have a laxative effect, while bones can cause constipation in the beginning. Alter amounts as needed to produce the desired stool, slowly aiming toward the recommended amounts.

With these few basics in hand, and a discussion with a veterinarian, you will be ready to create a natural, healthy meals for your four-legged friend. Let your culinary adventure begin!