Raw Feeding Formula:
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Raw feeding involves providing puppies with a diet consisting primarily of raw meat, bones, and organs, similar to what their ancestors would eat in the wild. This calculator helps determine the appropriate amount of raw food based on your puppy's weight and activity level.
The calculator uses the following formula:
Where:
Explanation: Puppies typically require 2.5% to 10% of their body weight in raw food daily, depending on their age, breed, and activity level.
Details: Proper feeding amounts are crucial for puppy growth and development. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition and stunted growth.
Tips: Weigh your puppy regularly as they grow quickly. Adjust amounts based on body condition - you should be able to feel but not see ribs. Divide the daily amount into 3-4 meals for young puppies.
Q1: Why such a wide range (2.5%-10%)?
A: Puppies have varying metabolic rates. Small breeds need proportionally more food than large breeds. Active puppies need more than sedentary ones.
Q2: How often should I adjust the amount?
A: Recalculate weekly for young puppies, monthly for older puppies as they grow rapidly.
Q3: What if my puppy is overweight or underweight?
A: Adjust within the range - reduce for overweight puppies, increase for underweight ones. Consult your vet if concerned.
Q4: Does this include bones and organs?
A: Yes, this is the total amount including muscle meat (80%), bones (10%), and organs (10%).
Q5: When should I switch to adult portions?
A: When growth slows (around 80% of expected adult size), gradually reduce to 2-3% of body weight.