How Much Raw Food Should I Feed My Dog? (Winnipeg Guide)
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Raw dog food portions usually start at 2–3% of an adult dog’s ideal body weight per day. Split that daily amount into two meals, then adjust it based on your dog’s age, activity level, metabolism, and body condition.
For Winnipeg dog owners making the switch, this guide gives you a practical starting point—plus a free calculator to handle the math.
The simple raw feeding rule for adult dogs
Use your dog’s ideal adult weight, not automatically their current weight:
Ideal weight × 2–3% = total raw food per day
For example, a 50 lb adult dog would start at about 1–1.5 lb (16–24 oz) per day, usually divided into two meals. Less-active dogs often start near 2%, while highly active dogs and dogs that struggle to maintain weight may need closer to 3%.
Raw dog food feeding chart
| Ideal adult weight | 2% per day | 3% per day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | 3.2 oz | 4.8 oz |
| 20 lb | 6.4 oz | 9.6 oz |
| 30 lb | 9.6 oz | 14.4 oz |
| 40 lb | 12.8 oz | 19.2 oz |
| 50 lb | 16 oz (1 lb) | 24 oz (1.5 lb) |
| 60 lb | 19.2 oz | 28.8 oz |
| 75 lb | 24 oz (1.5 lb) | 36 oz (2.25 lb) |
| 100 lb | 32 oz (2 lb) | 48 oz (3 lb) |
This chart is a starting estimate, not a fixed prescription. Check the feeding guide on your chosen food because calorie density and serving recommendations vary by recipe and brand.
Adjust by the dog, not only the chart
The chart gets you into the right range; your dog’s body condition tells you what to do next. You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, and your dog should have a visible waist when viewed from above.
- If the ribs are becoming difficult to feel, reduce the daily amount slightly.
- If your dog is losing too much weight or looking bony, increase it slightly.
- Recheck body condition every couple of weeks during the first two months.
What about puppies?
Puppies need a separate calculation because their portions change as they grow. Age, current weight, expected adult size, breed, and the food’s calorie density all matter. Follow the manufacturer’s puppy feeding guide and ask your veterinarian for help if your puppy has growth, weight, or health concerns.
Transition gradually
A fast food change can cause digestive upset. Follow the transition directions for the food you choose and introduce the new diet gradually. Watch your dog’s stool, appetite, energy, and body condition, then slow the transition if needed.
Make raw feeding easier
Open our free Pet Wellness Platform for a feeding calculator and side-by-side information on Canadian options including SMACK, Carnivora, and COEVO.
You can also shop our raw dog and cat food collection, or visit Barks N Purrs at 925 Headmaster Row #6 in Winnipeg. We’ll help you compare formats, proteins, portion sizes, and transition plans.
Raw feeding questions
How much raw food should a 50 lb dog eat?
A common starting range for a healthy 50 lb adult dog is 1–1.5 lb per day, divided into two meals. Adjust from there based on body condition, activity, and the food’s feeding guide.
Should I use my dog’s current weight or ideal weight?
For an adult dog, calculate the starting amount from their ideal body weight. If you are unsure what that should be, ask your veterinarian.
How often should an adult dog eat raw food?
Most adult dogs do well with the daily portion split into two meals.
How much raw food should I feed a puppy?
Puppies do not use the same simple adult calculation. Use the chosen food’s puppy guide and adjust as your puppy grows.
This article provides general educational information and does not replace veterinary advice. Speak with your veterinarian before making a major diet change for a puppy, a pregnant or nursing dog, or a dog with a medical condition.