Raw Feeding Cost Calculator
How It Works
This raw feeding cost calculator uses established formulas to provide accurate results.
The basic rule:
- Daily amount = Dog Weight × Feed Percentage (2-5% of body weight)
- Feed percentage: low activity 2%, moderate 2.5%, high 3.5%, puppy 5%
- Monthly Cost = Daily Amount (lbs) × Price Per Lb × 30
- 80/10/10 ratio: 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ (5% liver)
Results are estimates. Consult a professional for critical decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does raw feeding cost per month?
Raw feeding costs vary widely: DIY bulk buying runs $60-$200/month for a medium dog, co-op buying is $80-$250/month, pre-made frozen raw is $150-$400/month, and delivery services cost $200-$500+/month. The biggest cost factors are dog size, protein sources, and sourcing method. Chicken-based DIY diets are the most affordable entry point. A 50 lb dog eating 2.5% body weight needs about 1.25 lbs per day.
Is raw feeding really cheaper than premium kibble?
DIY raw feeding with bulk-bought chicken can cost roughly the same as mid-range kibble ($50-$100/month for a medium dog). However, most balanced raw diets using mixed proteins cost 2-3x more than premium kibble. Pre-made raw and delivery services are the most expensive option, often 4-6x the cost of kibble. Raw feeders often argue that reduced vet bills over time offset the higher food cost, though this is not scientifically proven.
What is the 80/10/10 rule in raw feeding?
The 80/10/10 rule is the foundation of prey model raw (PMR) feeding: 80% muscle meat (including heart and other smooth muscle), 10% raw meaty bones (for calcium), and 10% secreting organs (with at least 5% being liver). BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) modifies this to roughly 70% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ, and 10% fruits and vegetables. Both models aim to replicate a whole prey animal's nutritional profile.
Where can I buy affordable raw food for my dog?
Best sources include: local raw feeding co-ops and buying groups (Facebook groups for your area), ethnic grocery stores and meat markets (often have organ meats and cheap cuts), restaurant supply stores like Restaurant Depot, local farms and ranchers (buy whole chickens, duck frames, or beef trim in bulk), online suppliers like Raw Paws, My Pet Carnivore, or Hare Today, and big box stores during sales. Buying in bulk and using a chest freezer ($150-$250) saves the most money long-term.