Raw Dog Food Calculator

Category: Biology

- March 22, 2025

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Calculate the appropriate amounts of raw food for your dog based on the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or Prey model diets. This calculator helps you determine portion sizes and nutritional balance for optimal canine health.

Dog Information

Dog's Weight:

Dog's Life Stage:

Activity Level:

Body Condition:

Diet Preferences

Diet Model:

Meals Per Day:

Advanced Options

Daily Feeding Percentage:

Percentage of dog's body weight to feed daily (typically 2-3% for adult dogs).

Include Supplements

About Raw Feeding for Dogs

Raw feeding is based on the principle that dogs should eat a diet similar to what their ancestors ate in the wild. There are two main approaches to raw feeding:

BARF Model (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food)

Developed by Dr. Ian Billinghurst, this model includes:

70%: Muscle meat
10%: Raw edible bone
7%: Vegetables
5%: Liver
5%: Other organ meat
3%: Seeds, nuts, fruits

Prey Model

Mimics what a dog would eat in the wild with whole prey:

80%: Muscle meat
10%: Raw edible bone
5%: Liver
5%: Other organ meat

The prey model does not include plant matter.

Feeding Guidelines

General feeding guidelines based on body weight:

Puppies: 2-3% of expected adult weight or 5-6% of current weight
Adult dogs: 2-3% of body weight
Senior dogs: 1.5-2% of body weight
Active/working dogs: 3-5% of body weight
Weight loss: 1.5-2% of target body weight
Weight gain: 3-4% of current body weight

Common Supplements

While a balanced raw diet provides most nutrients, some supplements can be beneficial:

Fish oil: Omega-3 fatty acids for skin, coat, and inflammation
Vitamin E: Antioxidant that works with fish oil
Kelp: Natural source of iodine and minerals
Probiotics: Support digestive health
Eggshell powder: Calcium source if bone content is low

Transitioning Tips

Start with one protein source (like chicken) for 1-2 weeks
Gradually introduce new proteins one at a time
Introduce organ meats slowly, beginning with small amounts
Monitor stool consistency and adjust as needed
Ensure bone content is appropriate (too much can cause constipation, too little can cause loose stool)

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on general guidelines. Every dog is unique and may require adjustments based on their individual needs. Consult with a veterinarian knowledgeable about raw feeding before making significant diet changes, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions.

What is the Raw Dog Food Calculator?

The Raw Dog Food Calculator is a helpful tool for dog owners who want to feed their pets a fresh, raw diet. Whether you follow the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) model or the Prey model, this calculator estimates the right amount of food based on your dog's weight, age, activity level, and health condition. It also lets you customize feeding plans and portions per meal.

By taking the guesswork out of raw feeding, the calculator makes it easier to provide a diet that supports your dog’s health, energy, and well-being.

How It Works

The calculator uses your dog’s weight and other details to determine how much raw food should be fed daily. It then breaks that amount down into individual food components like muscle meat, bones, organs, and vegetables (if applicable), depending on the selected feeding model.

Feeding Formula:
Total Daily Food (grams) = Dog's Weight (kg) × 1000 × (Feeding % ÷ 100)

You can choose to feed in kilograms or pounds. The calculator automatically converts units and calculates meals per day, feeding ratios, and optional supplements if selected.

Key Features

Supports BARF, Prey, and custom raw diet models
Adapts feeding amounts based on age, activity, and body condition
Calculates daily and per-meal portions
Provides a visual breakdown of food components
Includes feeding tips and recommendations
Optional section for supplements and advanced settings

How to Use the Calculator

Follow these simple steps to generate a feeding plan:

Enter your dog’s weight and select the unit (lb or kg).
Select your dog’s life stage: Puppy, Adult, or Senior.
Choose the activity level that best describes your dog.
Pick your dog’s current body condition (Underweight, Ideal, or Overweight).
Select a diet model: BARF, Prey, or Modified.
Choose how many meals you feed your dog per day.
If using the Modified model, input your custom ratios. Ensure they add up to 100%.
Adjust the daily feeding percentage if needed, or let the calculator determine it.
Click "Calculate Portions" to view results.

Understanding the Results

Once calculated, the tool shows:

Total Daily Amount: How much food to feed per day
Amount Per Meal: How much to serve at each mealtime
Food Breakdown: Grams or ounces of meat, bone, organ, and veg
Tips and Advice: Helpful notes based on your dog’s profile

Why Use This Calculator?

Feeding raw isn’t one-size-fits-all. This tool simplifies planning by offering personalized recommendations that consider your dog’s unique needs. It helps:

Ensure nutritional balance in each meal
Prevent overfeeding or underfeeding
Track and adjust meals as your dog grows or changes
Support weight gain, loss, or maintenance goals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use this for puppies?

Yes. Select "Puppy" as the life stage, and the calculator will apply higher feeding percentages suitable for growth.

What’s the difference between BARF and Prey models?

BARF includes vegetables and fruits, while Prey focuses only on animal-based ingredients. The calculator adjusts the food ratios accordingly.

Do I need to include supplements?

Supplements are optional. The calculator can factor them in, but always check with your vet for your dog’s specific needs.

What if my ratios don’t add up to 100%?

The calculator will alert you if the custom ratios don’t total 100%. Adjust the values until they do.

Can I change the feeding percentage?

Yes. You can enter your own value or let the tool suggest one based on your dog’s profile.

Is this calculator accurate for all dogs?

It provides a helpful starting point based on general guidelines. Always observe your dog’s condition and consult a vet for personalized advice.

Conclusion

Feeding your dog a raw diet can be rewarding, but getting the portions right is important. This calculator helps you make informed decisions with ease and confidence. Whether you're new to raw feeding or looking for a better way to plan meals, it's a useful resource to support your dog’s health.