Raw Feeding by Breed: Size, Age and Individual Needs

All dogs share the same basic nutritional requirements, but breed, size, age and activity level all influence how much they need and what works best for them. If you are raw feeding and want to make sure you are getting it right for your specific dog, here is what to consider.

The Basics Apply to Every Breed

Every breed needs an appropriate balance of nutrients. An 80/10/10 ingredient split alone does not establish this: check whether the food is labelled complete and suitable for your dog’s life stage. Read our guide to complete and complementary foods before choosing a main meal.

Large and Giant Breeds

Large breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, and giant breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs, need more food in absolute terms but often do well on a slightly lower percentage of body weight than smaller dogs. Around 2% to 2.5% of body weight per day is a common starting point for large adult dogs.

Keeping a suitable body condition is particularly important for larger dogs. A trachea or cartilage chew can be an occasional supervised treat if appropriate, but it should not be presented as a treatment or a proven joint supplement. Discuss mobility problems with your vet.

Bloat is a risk in deep-chested large breeds. Avoid feeding immediately before or after vigorous exercise, and consider splitting the daily portion across two meals rather than one.

Small Breeds

Small dogs can need more energy per kilogram than large dogs, but breed alone cannot set a portion. Use the specific food’s guidance, weigh meals accurately and account for treats. Hard chews and bones can damage teeth or cause choking; choose suitable textures with your vet’s advice where needed.

For small portions from a 454g pack, plan defrosting around the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep thawed food covered and chilled, and use it promptly; PDSA advises using defrosted raw meat within 24 hours. Do not assume an opened pack can safely last several days.

Working and Sporting Breeds

Dogs that work or compete, including spaniels, collies, terriers and sighthounds in active roles, have higher energy demands. These dogs often do well at the higher end of the feeding range, around 3% or above on heavy working days. Higher-fat proteins like beef and lamb can help sustain energy levels throughout the day.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs can sometimes struggle with larger pieces of food due to their jaw structure. Minced complete meals are often the most practical format for these dogs, as they are easy to eat without requiring a lot of chewing effort.

Puppies of All Breeds

Growing dogs need a complete diet suitable for growth. Expected adult size and growth rate matter, especially for large and giant breeds. A universal percentage or the right-looking bone ratio is not enough. See our puppy feeding guide and check the actual recipe with your veterinary team.

Senior Dogs

Older dogs often need slightly less food as their activity levels reduce, but protein remains important for maintaining muscle mass. Softer proteins and minced meals can be easier for dogs with dental issues or reduced jaw strength. Keep an eye on body condition and adjust portions as needed.

The Best Approach: Watch Your Individual Dog

Breed guidelines are a useful starting point, but your individual dog is the best guide. Monitor their weight, coat, energy and stool quality, and adjust accordingly. If you are not sure where to start, our raw feeding guide covers the basics, and we are always happy to help you work out the right approach for your dog.

Turn breed guidance into a practical portion

Use our adult feeding chart for worked arithmetic examples, then build a starting plan using your individual dog’s details. A breed name cannot replace the food label or veterinary advice.

Independent sources

See UK Pet Food’s puppy guidance for growth nutrition and PDSA’s raw-food guidance for thawing and handling advice.