Raw Feeding by Breed: Understanding Your Dog's Nutritional 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

Regardless of breed, a balanced raw diet follows the same core principles: roughly 80% muscle meat, 10% raw bone and 10% offal (with around half of that being liver). This 80/10/10 ratio provides the protein, calcium, phosphorus and micronutrients dogs need to thrive. Our complete raw meals are formulated to this ratio, making it straightforward for any breed.

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.

Joint health is particularly important for large breeds. Proteins rich in natural glucosamine and chondroitin, such as trachea and cartilage-rich cuts, can be a useful addition. Our Beef Trachea is a popular choice for larger dogs.

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 breeds often have faster metabolisms relative to their size and may need a higher percentage of body weight, sometimes 3% or more. They can also be more prone to dental issues, so natural chews and raw meaty bones sized appropriately for their mouths are a good addition to the diet.

Portion sizes for small dogs can be tricky to manage with standard 454g packs. Many owners of small dogs split a pack across two or three days, keeping the remainder covered in the fridge.

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

Puppies need more food relative to their body weight to support growth, typically 5% to 10% of their current weight depending on age, fed across multiple meals a day. The nutritional balance is particularly important during this stage, which is why a complete raw meal with the right bone and offal ratios is a sensible choice. For more detail, see our guide on raw feeding ratios for puppies.

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.