Understand the factors influencing raw feeding costs and how to plan meals that fit your budget.
Raw diets for dogs are celebrated for their numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, healthier coats, and better weight management. However, many pet owners hesitate to make the switch due to a common concern: cost.
If you’ve ever wondered whether feeding raw is affordable or how it compares to traditional kibble, you’re not alone. This article will break down the real costs of raw feeding, factors that influence pricing, and practical strategies to feed your dog a healthy raw diet—without breaking the bank.
What Influences the Cost of Raw Food for Dogs?
1. Dog Size and Activity Level
The cost of feeding raw largely depends on your dog’s size and energy requirements. Larger breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds require more food compared to smaller breeds like Chihuahuas or Dachshunds.
Active dogs with higher energy levels may also require additional calories to maintain their weight, which means spending more on food. On average, expect to spend:
$2–$5 per day for a medium-sized dog (30–50 pounds).
$60–$150 per month depending on ingredient quality.
2. Ingredient Quality and Variety
Raw feeding costs vary based on the quality of ingredients. Premium options such as organic, grass-fed meats, and free-range poultry are naturally more expensive. However, less expensive cuts like chicken wings, necks, or beef hearts can provide similar nutritional value.
Opting for a variety of proteins can help balance nutrition and cost. For example:
Affordable meats: Chicken, turkey, and pork.
Premium options: Duck, lamb, and venison.
3. Local vs. Packaged Options
Where you source your dog’s raw food also impacts the price. Buying from local suppliers like Raw Fed and Furry in Ottawa offers fresh, high-quality options at a more affordable rate than pre-packaged blends sold by major brands. Local suppliers can also eliminate shipping fees, making raw feeding even more budget-friendly.
Is Raw Feeding Really Expensive?
One of the most common myths about raw feeding is that it’s prohibitively expensive. While raw diets may initially seem more costly than kibble, they can be surprisingly affordable when approached strategically. Here’s how raw feeding compares:
Daily and Monthly Costs
Daily Costs: $2–$5 per day for a medium-sized dog.
Monthly Costs: $60–$150 depending on portion sizes and ingredient quality.
Premium kibble brands like Orijen or Acana can cost $80–$120 per month for a medium-sized dog. Raw diets may be slightly higher, but their health benefits—like reduced vet visits and improved long-term wellness—often offset the initial cost.
How to Feed Your Dog a Raw Diet Affordably
1. Source Locally
Local suppliers like Raw Fed and Furry offer a wide selection of high-quality, budget-friendly options for Ottawa pet owners. By purchasing locally, you avoid added shipping fees and gain access to fresh ingredients.
Additionally, local suppliers often have discounts or bulk purchase options that can significantly reduce costs. For example, buying frozen bulk meats or customizable blends from Raw Fed and Furry allows you to tailor meals without overspending.
2. Incorporate DIY Options
Preparing your dog’s meals at home can save money while maintaining high-quality nutrition. Affordable ingredients to consider include:
Chicken backs and necks: Cost-effective protein and calcium sources.
Beef liver or kidney: Nutrient-dense organ meat at low prices.
Eggs: An excellent, budget-friendly source of protein and fatty acids.
Seasonal produce: Adding small amounts of fruits or vegetables (like carrots or blueberries) can enhance variety.
A DIY approach lets you control costs while ensuring your dog gets balanced nutrition. Always consult with a vet to ensure you meet dietary requirements.
3. Mix Raw with Kibble
If you’re not ready to switch completely to raw feeding, combining raw food with high-quality kibble can make raw diets more accessible. Replacing 20% of kibble with raw food allows you to enhance your dog’s diet while keeping costs low.
This hybrid approach is ideal for pet owners new to raw feeding or on a tight budget.
4. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing larger quantities of raw food often comes with discounts. Freezing bulk purchases ensures freshness while allowing you to save on frequent trips or orders. For example, buying a month’s supply at once from Raw Fed and Furry can reduce costs significantly.
Understanding Meal Planning and Portion Sizes
The 80-10-10 Rule
To ensure a nutritionally complete raw diet, follow the 80-10-10 rule:
80% Muscle Meat: Provides essential protein and energy.
10% Organ Meat: Supplies vital vitamins like Vitamin A and B12.
10% Bone: Offers calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.
Portion Calculation
Dogs typically require 2–3% of their ideal body weight in raw food per day. For example:
A 50-pound dog would eat 1–1.5 pounds of food daily.
A 20-pound dog would eat 0.4–0.6 pounds of food daily.
Using a raw food calculator can help you fine-tune portion sizes and costs.
Why Choose Raw Fed and Furry for Affordable Raw Feeding?
1. Fresh, Locally Sourced Ingredients
Raw Fed and Furry provides high-quality, locally sourced meats and customizable blends, ensuring Ottawa pet owners get value for their money.
2. Affordable Customization
They offer pre-packaged raw food blends as well as individual ingredients, making it easy to tailor meals to your budget and your dog’s nutritional needs.
3. Resources for Pet Owners
Raw Fed and Furry goes beyond selling raw food by offering tools and educational resources to simplify raw feeding, including a raw food calculator to estimate costs and portions.
Conclusion
Raw feeding doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. By sourcing locally, planning meals strategically, and incorporating cost-effective options, you can provide your dog with a healthier, natural diet while staying within your budget.
If you’re in Ottawa or the surrounding areas, Raw Fed and Furry offers premium raw food options that balance quality and affordability, making raw feeding accessible for all pet owners.