Why Raw Feeding in Ottawa Is on the Rise
Whether you’re new to raw feeding or looking to fine-tune your current routine, this locally grounded guide will walk you through how to calculate portion sizes, maintain nutritional balance, transition with ease, and ensure food safety—without the overwhelm. And if you're looking for fresh, high-quality raw food options tailored to your dog’s needs, Raw Fed and Furry in Orleans is here to help.
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How to Calculate Raw Dog Food Portions by Weight and Life Stage
The most common question we hear is: “How much raw food should I give my dog each day?”
The short answer: it depends on your dog’s weight, age, activity level, and metabolic rate. A general guideline is:
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Adult dogs: 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day
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Puppies: 4–6% of their expected adult body weight per day
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Highly active or working dogs: up to 4% daily
Example for an Adult Dog in Ottawa:
A 60-pound adult Labrador with moderate activity would need:
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60 lbs x 2.5% = 1.5 lbs (or approx. 24 oz) of raw food daily
Split between two meals, that’s 12 oz per meal.
Want help? Our free Raw Feeding Calculator on the Raw Fed and Furry website will do the math for you. It’s customized for local Ottawa breeds and climate conditions that affect energy needs.
Understanding the 80/10/10 Raw Feeding Ratio
Feeding raw isn’t just about portion size—it’s about balance.
We use the 80/10/10 feeding model, which mimics what dogs would naturally consume in the wild:
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80% muscle meat
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10% raw bone
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10% organ meat (with 5% being liver)
This ratio ensures your dog gets:
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Proper protein levels for muscle maintenance
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Calcium from bones for skeletal health
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Essential nutrients and enzymes from organ meats
If this sounds complex, don’t worry. At Raw Fed and Furry, we pre-portion balanced raw meals using this exact ratio. You simply defrost, serve, and know your dog is getting everything they need.
Transitioning to raw feeding doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, many local pet owners report smoother digestion and more excitement at mealtime after switching.
Here’s a simple method that works:
Week-by-Week Transition Plan:
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Week 1: Mix 25% raw with 75% of your dog’s current food
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Week 2: Increase to 50% raw
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Week 3: Go to 75% raw
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Week 4: Transition to 100% raw
Some dogs take to raw immediately, while others need time to adjust. Watch for signs like increased energy, better stool quality, and cleaner teeth as signs the transition is working.
For sensitive stomachs, we offer single-protein options like duck, rabbit, and turkey to ease the switch.
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Transitioning Your Dog to a Raw Diet: What Ottawa Pet Owners Should Know
Food Safety: Handling Raw Dog Food Without the Stress
Concerned about bacteria or contamination? You’re not alone. That’s why we follow and recommend strict but simple food safety practices to every Ottawa pet owner:
Key Tips for Safe Raw Feeding:
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Use stainless steel bowls—they’re easier to sanitize
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Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meals
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Thaw in the fridge, not on the counter
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Store in sealed containers for up to 3 days after thawing
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Never refreeze raw meals once thawed
At Raw Fed and Furry, all products are flash-frozen at peak freshness and packaged to prevent cross-contamination. We also use human-grade ingredients, meaning we apply the same safety standards you’d expect from your own food.
Common Questions from Ottawa Pet Parents
What proteins are best to start with?
We recommend beef or turkey for beginners—they're easy to digest and widely available. Once your dog adapts, consider rotating proteins weekly for dietary diversity.
Do I need supplements?
If you follow a balanced 80/10/10 diet, your dog should get most essential nutrients naturally. However, omega-3s from fish oil and probiotics can support coat health and gut flora.
Can I mix raw with kibble?
We don’t advise it in the same meal, as raw and kibble digest at different rates. If you’re mixing, feed raw in the morning and kibble in the evening—or vice versa.
Why Ottawa Dog Owners Trust Raw Fed and Furry
Here’s why more locals are switching to us:
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Locally Based in Orleans: We understand Ottawa’s breeds, climate, and feeding trends.
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Pre-Portioned Meals: Balanced for nutritional completeness, zero guesswork.
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Expert Support: We educate and walk you through every step.
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Quality You Can See: Ethically sourced, no fillers, no additives—just clean, raw ingredients.
Whether you’re new to raw or need help customizing a long-term feeding plan, our team is here to guide you—tailored to your dog’s needs and your Ottawa lifestyle.
Ready to Feed Raw With Confidence?
Feeding raw doesn’t have to feel complicated. With the right guidance—and access to reliable, local support—you can feel confident you’re giving your dog the best start to a longer, healthier life.
Stop guessing. Start feeding with purpose.
Visit us in-store or online to explore our meal plans, ask questions, or use our free feeding calculator.