Feeding guide
Every working dog is different.
Energy needs vary by the dog's size, age, body condition, health, and type and amount of work. Use the calorie estimate as a starting point, then monitor body weight and body condition and adjust the daily amount with your veterinarian. Rawly will provide recipe-specific calories and serving estimates once the formula and feeding tool are validated.
How the estimate works
1
Resting energy
RER = 70 x (weight in kg)^0.75
The calories a dog burns at rest. Use the dog's ideal weight if they are above or below it.
2
Daily need
Daily kcal = RER x factor
The factor reflects life stage, neuter status, and activity. Your veterinarian sets it for your dog.
3
Portion
Grams per day = kcal / food kcal per kg x 1,000
Rawly Beef is 1,600 kcal/kg and Chicken is 1,450 kcal/kg, as fed.
Run the numbers
Enter your dog's weight, the energy factor from your veterinarian, and the food you feed.
Use your dog's ideal weight if they are above or below it.
Multiplies resting energy. See reference points below.
Training rewards count. They come out of the daily total.
Enter a weight, an energy factor, and a food to see a starting amount.
A starting estimate, not a prescription. Weigh your dog every one to two weeks, watch body condition, and adjust with your veterinarian.
Reference starting points
Published maintenance factors to discuss with your veterinarian. They describe typical pet dogs, not working dogs: dogs in regular hard work or training often need more, and the right number comes from watching your dog's weight and condition over time.
- Neutered adult
- 1.6 x RER
- Intact adult
- 1.8 x RER
- Obesity-prone adult
- 1.4 x RER
- Puppy under 4 months
- 3.0 x RER
- Puppy over 4 months
- 2.0 x RER
Source: Merck Veterinary Manual.
Treats count
Training rewards, chews, and table food all carry calories. Subtract them from the daily total so the bowl and the treat pouch add up to the same number.
Watch, then adjust
Weigh your dog every one to two weeks and check body condition: you should feel the ribs easily without seeing them. Change the daily amount in small steps as workload, season, and condition change.
Water and meal timing
Keep fresh water available throughout the day. For dogs at higher risk of GDV, ask your veterinarian how to schedule meals around intense activity.
Evidence
- 2021 AAHA Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, American Animal Hospital Association.
- Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual.
These energy formulas are estimates that need to be adjusted to the individual dog. General feeding guidance, not veterinary advice.