Switching my Labrador, Max, to a raw diet was one of the best decisions I ever made. He’s happier, healthier, and more energetic than ever. But if you’re like me when I started, you might be wondering: What does an entire day of raw feeding actually look like? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
Here’s a peek into Max’s full day of eating on a raw diet for dogs, complete with personality-packed meals that keep his tail wagging all day long.
Morning: The Breakfast Boost
Max starts his day with a hearty breakfast that gives him energy for his morning zoomies. His breakfast bowl is simple, balanced, and packed with nutrients.
What’s on the Menu:
- Muscle Meat: 1/2 pound of ground turkey
- Raw Bone: A raw chicken wing or two
- Veggie Boost: 1 tablespoon of pureed spinach and carrots
- Supplement: A splash of fish oil for shiny coat magic
The ground turkey is the star of this meal, providing high-quality protein to fuel his morning adventures. The raw chicken wing adds calcium and encourages chewing, which keeps his teeth clean. The veggies? They’re not his favorite, but when mixed in, they provide fiber and antioxidants.
How Max Reacts:
Max does his little breakfast dance as soon as he sees the bowl—spinning in circles like he’s auditioning for a canine ballet. Within seconds, his face is buried in the bowl, and he doesn’t come up for air until it’s spotless.
Mid-Morning Snack: The Chew Break
After his morning walk, Max loves a good snack. This is the perfect time to give him something to gnaw on, which keeps him entertained and benefits his dental health.
What’s on the Menu:
- Snack: A raw beef rib or lamb neck bone
Raw bones are great for dogs, as long as they’re meaty and uncooked. They provide calcium, strengthen jaws, and help scrape off plaque.
How Max Reacts:
Max carries his bone around the house like it’s a trophy before settling in his favorite sunny spot to chew. He looks so proud of himself, like he’s just brought home dinner for the family.
Lunch: The Midday Refuel
Lunch is a smaller meal designed to keep Max satisfied until dinner. It’s lighter but still nutrient-packed.
What’s on the Menu:
- Muscle Meat: 1/4 pound of ground beef
- Organ Meat: 1 ounce of beef liver
- Veggie Add-On: 1 teaspoon of mashed sweet potato
Liver is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A, D, and B12. But it’s rich, so I keep the portion small. The sweet potato is a hit with Max—he loves the slightly sweet taste.
How Max Reacts:
As soon as he smells the liver, Max gets so excited he starts drooling. By the time lunch hits the floor, it’s gone in less than a minute. I swear he smiles after every meal.
Afternoon Snack: The Frozen Treat
After a nap (or two), Max gets his afternoon treat. I like to keep things fun and creative, especially when the weather’s warm.
What’s on the Menu:
- Treat: Frozen sardines
These little fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for Max’s coat and brain health. Plus, frozen treats are a nice challenge for him to eat.
How Max Reacts:
Max prances around like he’s just been given a gourmet meal. He crunches the frozen sardines with gusto, then licks his lips like he’s savoring every bite.
Dinner: The Day’s Main Event
Dinner is Max’s biggest and most balanced meal of the day. It’s where I pull out all the stops to ensure he gets everything he needs.
What’s on the Menu:
- Muscle Meat: 1/2 pound of chicken thighs (bone-in)
- Raw Bone: A turkey neck
- Organ Meat: 1 ounce of chicken liver or kidney
- Veggie Boost: 1 tablespoon of pureed zucchini
- Supplement: A sprinkle of calcium powder if needed (depending on the bone content)
The chicken thighs and turkey neck provide protein and bone content for calcium. The organ meat is a must for essential vitamins, and the zucchini adds fiber and hydration.
How Max Reacts:
By dinnertime, Max is practically doing cartwheels. As I prep his meal, he sits at attention, tail wagging so hard it sounds like a drumbeat against the floor. The second his bowl is down, it’s game over—it’s gone in a flash.
Bedtime Treat: The Wind-Down Snack
To end the day on a high note, I give Max a light bedtime snack. It’s like his version of a midnight snack but healthier.
What’s on the Menu:
- Treat: A small spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt with a dash of cinnamon
Yogurt provides probiotics for gut health, while cinnamon offers a tiny boost of antioxidants.
How Max Reacts:
Max licks the yogurt so enthusiastically that his face ends up covered in it. He looks at me afterward as if to say, “Got any more?”
Tips for Raw Feeding Success
- Prep Ahead: I batch-prep Max’s meals for the week, portion them into containers, and freeze them. It’s a lifesaver on busy days.
- Stick to the Ratios: Ensure each meal has the right balance of meat, bones, and organs.
- Monitor Health: Keep an eye on your dog’s coat, energy levels, and stools (yes, gross but important). Adjust portions if needed.
Why I Love Feeding Max Raw
Switching Max to a raw diet was a leap of faith, but seeing the results has made it so worth it. His coat shines, his energy is boundless, and his digestion is better than ever. But what I love most is how excited he gets for every meal. Feeding him raw feels like I’m giving him a little gift every day—and the way he looks at me afterward says it all: “Thanks, human. You’re the best.”
Are you ready to try a full day of raw feeding for your dog? Let me know how it goes—I’d love to hear about your pup’s journey! 🐾
