Raw Food Beginner

[LNsBeatles]

I feel like I've been "on the fence" about raw food for years now ... actually, considering how much time I spent researching a diet for Albert, that's probably pretty accurate ;) But no more!

After much back and forth, I finally took my first step into the raw feeding world after I noticed Louis was not even attempting to chew his kibble. He was just gulping and swallowing everything whole.

Due to my current living situation, I think a premade raw diet is going to work best for me. I live in an open plan apartment with almost NO counter space and a tiny freezer. I've started using Nature's Variety because it's readily available locally. I haven't found a convenient Bravo dealer, but I'm looking into shipping options.

Just a few questions:


I know this has been the subject of much discussion, but honestly I'm totally confused about how much I should be feeding Louis. (I could just be completely useless :confused: ) He's 4 months and about 13 lbs. 10% of current weight? 10% of anticipated weight? Using a variety of calculators, it looks like I could be feeding Louis anywhere between 4 and 12 medallions a day ... :confused:

I'd like to mix in some dairy -- cottage cheese or yogurt, etc. -- can I just mix this in with his protein? (chicken, beef, lamb, etc.)

Is anyone using Nature's Variety as a base, then offering other RMBs like chicken wings, backs, etc? I'd like to provide Louis with the added crunchy benefit of RMBs.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!
Ellen

[LNsBeatles]

OK -- that's about what I thought made the most sense, between 8-10/day. Wanted to make sure I was reading it right: I know it's silly, but I appreciate the confirmation :)

[tati]

Hello LNsBeatles,

I am a new raw feeder but I can tell you that I am learning alot about. In the beginning I was an enthusiastic owner and started on raw with too much food and too much variety (mixing things) and 1 of my 3 dogs had problems and I am still working to ajust him into the raws. He is doing fine now, gmacleod helped me alot and I am sure that she will help you too.

In my opinion : Start slow and easy with something that is easily digestible and dont offer foods or mixed food until he is doing well on the one protein source. I can say that over feeding or mixing food may cause some digestive problems in the beginning, so just go slow, and you can always add and mix more food when he is adjusted.

Be simple! :) Buy the whole bird and cut it into sections appropriate for your dog. Some meals will be meaty and some will be bonier but when all all is finished you will have fed a whole chicken that is a very good thing. You can stay with it for a week and then try a different protein like pork or beef. Once your dog is adjusted to the new diet then you can varied every day or mix things. But dont forget: start slow and simple. ;)

[miss heather]

I also feed Nature's Varaiety, and I have vistited to "amount to feed" calculator many many times as she's grown.

For a:
Dog
13lbs.
Puppy 50-80% of total body weight
100% raw (no kibble or freeze dried)

he should be getting 10.1 ounces (and each medallion is 1oz.).

I followed these guidelines with my girl and she looks great (not too thin, not too chubby ;) )
good luck!