Introduction
Raw feeding is a nutrition approach that mimics your pet’s natural diet in the wild, replacing processed foods with fresh, uncooked ingredients including muscle meat, organs, and bones. This guide provides a structured approach to transitioning to and maintaining a raw food diet for your dog.
Understanding Raw Feeding Ratios
The basic model follows an 80-10-10 ratio:
– 80% muscle meat
– 10% raw edible bone
– 10% organ meat (5% liver, 5% other organs)
Benefits of Raw Feeding
– Improved dental health through natural cleaning
– Better digestion and nutrient absorption
– Enhanced skin and coat health
– Increased energy levels
– Better weight management
– Reduced allergies and inflammation
Getting Started
Initial Steps for Adult Dogs:
– Complete health assessment
– Perform a 24-hour fast (adults only)
– Calculate feeding amounts (start at 2% of body weight)
– Source initial proteins
– Prepare workspace and storage
– Create feeding schedule
Sourcing Options:
– Join local co-ops
– Connect with hunters/farmers
– Post “wanted” ads for freezer cleanouts
– Buy in bulk during sales
– Share bulk purchases with other raw feeders
– Consider ethnic markets for organ meats
Storage Solutions:
– Invest in an additional freezer
– Organize by protein type
– Implement rotation system
– Use clear containers for visibility
– Label everything with dates
Essential Equipment
Primary Equipment:
– Freezer space (dedicated space recommended)
– Food-grade gloves
– BPA-free freezer-safe containers
– Digital scale (accuracy to 0.1 oz/1g)
– High-quality knives/kitchen shears
– Multiple cutting boards (color-coded recommended)
– Food preparation pans
– Sanitizing supplies
Optional but Helpful:
– Vacuum sealer
– Meat grinder
– Bulk storage containers
– Label maker
– Temperature probe
Food Safety Protocol:
– Sanitize surfaces before starting
– Use separate cutting boards for different proteins
– Change gloves between protein types
– Monitor temperature during prep
– Clean as you go
– Immediate storage of finished meals
Meal Preparation System
Workspace Organization
Designated Areas:
– Raw ingredient station
– Cutting/weighing station
– Container filling station
– Cleaning station
– Storage staging area
Preparation Flow:
– Set up entertainment (makes prep more enjoyable)
– Organize containers and tools
– Process organs first (when semi-frozen)
– Cut/portion bone content
– Prepare muscle meat
– Package and label
– Clean and sanitize
Batch Preparation Tips
Efficiency Strategies:
– Prep multiple meals at once
– Use assembly line method
– Keep commonly used tools within reach
– Maintain prep sheets/checklists
– Use container templates for portions
THE 80-10-5-5 MODEL
80% Muscle Meat
– Core protein sources: beef, chicken, pork, turkey, lamb, duck, rabbit
– Includes heart (counts as muscle meat)
– Provides essential amino acids and nutrients
– Main source of energy
– Should include a variety of proteins for balanced nutrition
10% Raw Edible Bone
– Sources: chicken necks, wings, backs; duck necks; rabbit bones
– Provides calcium and phosphorus
– Supports dental health
– Must be raw (never cooked)
– Amount may need adjustment (12-14%) based on individual needs
5% Liver
– Rich in vitamin A
– High in iron and copper
– Essential for metabolism
– Important source of folate
5% Other Organs
– Kidney: vitamin A, B vitamins
– Spleen: iron, immune support
– Pancreas: digestive enzymes
– Brain: omega fatty acids
– Variety is key for complete nutrition
Four-Week Transition Plan
Week 1: White Meat Foundation
– Select appropriate white meat protein
– Include appropriate bone content
– Monitor stool consistency
– Track energy levels and appetite
– Document any issues or concerns
Week 2: Red Meat Integration
– Choose one red meat protein
– Maintain bone content ratio
– Balance white/red meat portions
– Continue monitoring digestion
– Adjust portions if needed
Week 3: Liver Introduction
– Select liver from familiar protein
– Start at 25% of calculated amount
– Increase gradually over week
– Watch for digestive changes
– Keep detailed feeding notes
Week 4: Organ Diversity
– Add one non-liver organ
– Maintain previous ingredients
– Monitor acceptance and digestion
– Adjust portions as needed
– Plan next protein introduction
Special Considerations
Puppies
– Complete nutrition from start
– Minimum 3-4 meals daily
– Progressive feeding percentages by age
– Regular weight monitoring
– Growth rate tracking
– Reproductive food inclusion
Senior Dogs
– Adjusted protein levels
– Easier-to-digest preparations
– Additional supplements as needed
– More frequent health monitoring
– Flexible portion control
Large Breeds
– Extended transition periods
– Growth rate monitoring
– Joint support considerations
– Calcium/phosphorus balance
– Protein variety management
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
- Digestive Problems:
– Diarrhea: Increase bone, consider fast
– Constipation: Reduce bone, add moisture
– Vomiting: Evaluate portion size and timing
– Refusal: Check temperature and variety
- Health Concerns:
– Weight management adjustments
– Energy level monitoring
– Coat condition assessment
– Dental health tracking
When to Seek Help
– Blood in stool/vomit
– Persistent digestive issues
– Lethargy or behavior changes
– Dehydration signs
– Unexplained weight changes
Long-Term Success
Ongoing Education
– Join raw feeding communities
– Attend workshops/seminars
– Read current research
– Connect with experienced feeders
– Document your journey
Diet Evolution
- Expansion Plans:
– New protein introduction
– Organ variety
– Seasonal adjustments
– Supplement evaluation
– Recipe development
- Progress Tracking:
– Monthly health assessments
– Weight monitoring
– Cost tracking
– Food journal maintenance
– Photo documentation
Quality Control
– Supplier assessment
– Storage temperature monitoring
– Rotation schedule
– Sanitation protocol
– Equipment maintenance
Remember that every dog is unique, and this guide should be adapted to your dog’s specific needs. Always monitor your dog’s response to dietary changes and consult with a veterinarian when necessary.
