ardam (formerly CDK9 Raw) has been feeding puppies with quality raw nutrition for years, and getting those early feeding habits right sets your puppy up for a healthier life. Good nutrition in the growing months supports steady development and helps prevent fussy eating habits later on. This guide covers how much to feed, what raw foods work well, and what to avoid.
How much should you feed your puppy?
Puppies need high-quality nutrition to support their physical and mental development, but overfeeding can lead to excess weight gain and other issues. A few things to keep in mind:
- Consider breed, size and age: these factors all affect what type and amount of food suits your puppy best, whether you have a large working breed or a small dog raw diet like a cavoodle.
- Follow feeding guidelines: when introducing a new diet, use the guidelines provided for that specific food as a starting point.
- Avoid overfeeding: too much food can encourage begging behaviour and rapid weight gain, which is harder to manage later.
If you need help working out the right amount, our food calculator is a good starting point, or you can speak with your vet for guidance tailored to your puppy.
What raw food can your puppy eat?
Puppies need a diet rich in protein and nutrients to grow strong, and raw food can be a great fit. Raw meat, bone, fruit and vegetables provide calcium, protein, vitamins A and C, phosphorus, fatty acids, iron and magnesium, all important for healthy growth. Sourcing quality matters here, which is why we focus on properly sourced, human-grade ingredients across our range, including options suitable for pups from around 4 months old.
Fats such as fresh fish oil can also support key nutrients for growth and development. With so many raw food options available, many pet owners are turning to raw diets as a way to give their puppy well-rounded nutrition at every life stage.
What to avoid feeding your puppy
- Cooked bones: cooked bones from meat, fish or poultry can splinter and pose a choking or digestive risk. Raw bones are a different matter and are generally safer.
- Chocolate and caffeine: these contain compounds that are toxic to dogs and should never be fed.
- Grapes and raisins: these can be harmful to some dogs, so it is best to avoid them altogether.
- Processed human snacks: foods like popcorn, chips, candy and pasta with garlic or onion powder offer no nutritional value and can cause digestive upset.
Choosing quality food that meets your puppy's nutritional needs while still being enjoyable to eat makes meal times easier for everyone.
Ready to start your puppy off right? Browse our full range, try a sample pack, and use our food calculator to work out the right portion for your growing pup. Check delivery information to see how it reaches your door.
FAQs
How much raw food should I feed my puppy daily?
This depends on age, breed and expected adult weight. A general guideline is 5 to 10% of body weight for puppies under six months, adjusted as they grow.
Can I feed raw food to a 2-month-old puppy?
It is generally best to wait until around 4 months of age before introducing a full raw diet, unless advised otherwise by your vet.
What meat is best for puppies?
Puppies generally benefit from a mix of proteins such as chicken, beef and lamb, along with appropriate bone and organ meat in balanced proportions.
How do I transition my puppy to raw food?
Start gradually by replacing one meal a day with raw food, increasing the proportion over 7 to 10 days.
Are there feeding plans available for puppies?
Yes, we offer raw food options tailored for puppies from around 4 months old. Explore our full range to find what suits your pup.
Reviewed by the ardam team.
Start puppies on the 250g complete raw mix portions so you can dial daily grams without waste.
