Adult Dog Nutrition

The stage of an Adult Dog is determined at different ages depending on their breed and final size and weight. A small breed dog will reach their adult size in 6-8 months and weight by 12 months. Medium sized breed dogs will reach their adult size by 12 to 15 months and their adult weight by 18 months. A large breed will reach their adult size by 15 to 18 months but will reach their adult weight by the age of 2. lastly, there is the giant breed dog which can take 18 months to reach their adult size, and up to 2 to 3 years to reach their adult weight and body mass. 

As your dog enters full maturity and enters adult hood, their bones have fully developed and may have reached their final size their nutrition requirements change. In commercial adult dog food, they are required by the American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that their food must contain at least 5% fat, 0.6% calcium, and 0.5% phosphorous.  

In the raw-fed diet you should ensure that that your dog receives the above nutrients stated by the AAFCO as well as 5% liver and 5% other secreting organs.  As dogs have evolved to consume raw meat and bones, feeding human-grade whole raw foods is an increasingly popular alternative to providing a dog with the nutrients they need. The best components of this diet are those that are grass-fed, free-range, and organic, as grass-fed meat is more nutrient-dense than meat from grain and corn-finished animals. Non-organic grain-raised meat tends to be higher in Omega-6 and must be offset with foods higher in Omega-3s, such as small oily fish.

There are many benefits that come from raw feeding, such as improved bone and joint health, a stronger immune system, and a softer, fuller fur coat. Additionally, the raw meaty bones component of the raw diet provides vital nutrition for the dog, and is also great for dental health, as it includes jaw exercises. It also provides vital nutrition and mental stimulation. For optimal nutrition, it is important to provide a variety of fresh, human-grade, raw foods, with a combination of muscle meats, organs, and bones. Raw diets are not only nutritionally sound, but they are also safe if prepared and stored properly.