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How Much Bone is Recommended in Raw Dog Food? A Complete Guide

How Much Bone in My Raw Dog Food is Okay? 

Raw feeding for dogs is what we do here at BJ's Raw Pet Food. It's our passion, it's our life. Raw dog food was introduced to us by a friend years ago. Living and working on a farm made it easy for me to give this a try with my German Shepherds. Then I discovered Dr. Billinghurst’s research, and it changed my perspective on pet’s digestive health.

Raw diets consist of raw uncooked meat and are formulated to mimic the feeding habits of the pet’s ancestors. The PMR and the BARF Diets are two standard models used when formulating raw diets. Some diets also include vegetables and milk as additional supplements. 

The BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food), is increasingly popular among pet owners aiming to provide a natural, nutrient-rich diet. A key component of raw dog food is bone, which supplies essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. But as many of our customers have asked over the years, how much bone should be in raw dog food? We hope that this blog, with practical tips, will give you the answers you are looking for when it comes bone in a balanced raw diet. 

Why Bones Are Essential in Raw Dog Food

Bones are a natural source of calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals critical for canine health, supporting strong bones, teeth, and overall vitality. They also promote dental health by cleaning teeth during chewing. However, achieving the right bone-to-meat ratio is vital to avoid health issues like constipation or nutrient deficiencies. This section covers why bones matter and how to balance them in a raw dog food diet.

Risks of Incorrect Bone Content

  • Too Much Bone: Excessive bone can lead to constipation, hard stools, or intestinal blockages. It may also disrupt the calcium-phosphorus balance, potentially impacting bone development or organ function.

  • Too Little Bone: Insufficient bone can cause calcium deficiency, resulting in weak bones, poor growth (especially in puppies), or issues like muscle cramps.

Recommended Bone Content in Raw Dog Food

The ideal bone percentage in raw dog food varies based on a dog’s age, size, activity level, and health. Below are evidence-based guidelines to help you determine the right amount of bone for your dog’s raw diet. This is what we go by at BJ's Raw Pet Food. 

Standard Guideline: 10-15% Bone

For most adult dogs, a raw diet should include 10-15% edible bone by weight. A balanced raw diet typically consists of:

  • 80% muscle meat (including fat and connective tissue)

  • 10% organ meat (e.g., liver, kidney)

  • 10-15% edible bone

  • Optional additions like vegetables, fruits, or supplements (5-10%)

This ratio aligns with the prey model diet, mimicking what dogs would consume in the wild when eating whole prey.

Tailoring Bone Content for Specific Dogs

  • Puppies: Growing puppies may need slightly more bone (closer to 15%) to support skeletal development. However, excessive calcium can lead to growth abnormalities, so monitor carefully.

  • Senior Dogs: Older dogs may benefit from slightly less bone (around 10%) to prevent constipation, as their digestive systems may be less efficient.

  • Active or Working Dogs: High-energy dogs may tolerate slightly higher bone content due to increased metabolism, but balance with sufficient meat and fat is essential.

  • Dogs with Health Conditions: Dogs with kidney issues, digestive sensitivities, or other conditions may require customized bone ratios. Consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist for personalized guidance.

How to Calculate Bone Content in Raw Dog Food

To ensure your dog gets the right amount of bone, you need to know the bone-to-meat ratio in the cuts you’re feeding. Here are some common examples:

  • Chicken wings: ~46% bone, 54% meat

  • Chicken backs: ~44% bone, 56% meat

  • Turkey necks: ~40% bone, 60% meat

  • Beef ribs: ~20-30% bone, depending on the cut

  • Whole small fish (e.g., sardines): ~10-15% bone

Example Calculation

For a dog requiring 1 pound (16 ounces) of food daily with a target of 12% bone:

  • 12% of 16 ounces = 1.92 ounces of bone.

  • Using chicken wings (46% bone), you’d need ~4.2 ounces of chicken wings to meet the bone requirement, with the remaining 11.8 ounces from muscle meat, organs, or other ingredients.

Pre-ground raw food mixes often specify bone content, simplifying the process. Alternatively, use whole cuts and adjust portions to meet the 10-15% guideline.

Practical Tips for Feeding Bones in Raw Dog Food

  1. Choose Edible Bones: Opt for soft, edible bones like chicken wings, necks, or backs. Avoid weight-bearing bones from large animals (e.g., beef femurs), which can damage teeth.

  2. Introduce Gradually: For dogs new to raw feeding, introduce bones slowly to allow their digestive system to adapt. Monitor stool consistency—firm but not hard stools indicate a balanced diet.

  3. Ground vs. Whole Bones: Ground bones offer convenience and safety, while whole bones provide dental benefits. Ensure whole bones are appropriately sized to prevent choking.

  4. Monitor Health Signs: Watch for signs of too much bone (constipation, white/hard stools) or too little (soft stools, calcium deficiency). Adjust the diet accordingly.

  5. Consult Experts: Work with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions, to ensure a balanced raw diet.

Best Bone Sources for Raw Dog Food

Incorporate a variety of bone sources to ensure nutritional diversity:

  • Poultry: Chicken wings, necks, backs; turkey necks or wings

  • Rabbit: Whole rabbit or rib cages

  • Fish: Whole small fish like sardines or mackerel

  • Pork: Ribs or neck bones (raw and appropriately sized)

  • Lamb or Goat: Ribs or softer bone cuts

Always source bones from high-quality, human-grade meat to reduce contamination risks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Raw Feeding

  • Overfeeding Bone: Feeding too many bony cuts (e.g., only chicken wings) can cause excessive calcium and digestive issues.

  • Lack of Variety: Relying on one bone source may lead to nutrient imbalances. Rotate proteins (chicken, turkey, pork) for a well-rounded diet.

  • Neglecting Other Nutrients: Bones alone don’t provide a complete diet. Include muscle meat and organs for balanced nutrition.

  • Lack of Supervision: Always supervise your dog when feeding whole bones to prevent choking or gulping.

Conclusion

The recommended bone content in raw dog food is 10-15% for most adult dogs, with slight adjustments for puppies, seniors, or active dogs. By understanding bone-to-meat ratios, choosing appropriate bone sources, and monitoring your dog’s health, you can create a balanced raw diet that supports their well-being. Always consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to tailor the diet to your dog’s unique needs. With these guidelines, you can confidently feed your dog a nutritious raw diet while avoiding common pitfalls.

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