Introduction
Feeding a raw diet offers dogs some of the most natural and biologically appropriate nutrition available — but when it comes to pregnant dogs, nursing mothers, and growing puppies, proper nutrition becomes even more important. These life stages require carefully balanced meals rich in the right proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support healthy development and long-term well-being.
At Paw on Raw, we regularly hear from breeders, new pet parents, and families preparing for litters who want the best possible nutrition for their dogs. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about raw feeding throughout pregnancy, lactation, and early puppyhood.
1. Feeding a Raw Diet to Pregnant Dogs (Gestation Stage)
A dog’s pregnancy lasts only about 63 days, but the nutritional needs during this short period are significant. Raw feeding during pregnancy can offer exceptional benefits, including smoother deliveries, healthier litters, and stronger development.
Why Raw Helps During Pregnancy
A high-quality raw diet provides nutrients in their natural, most absorbable form. Fresh meat, organs, bones, and healthy fats help support:
- Proper fetal growth
- Hormonal stability
- Strong bone and tissue development
- A robust immune system for both mom and puppies
- Better overall energy for the mother
How Much to Feed During Pregnancy
For the first 4–5 weeks, pregnant dogs generally do not need extra calories. Continue feeding her normal maintenance amount.
Around week 5, her calorie needs begin to increase. By weeks 7–9, she may need up to 50% more food, depending on litter size and her natural appetite.
What to Include
A balanced pregnancy diet should feature:
- High-quality protein (chicken, beef, duck, lamb mixes)
- Organ meats, especially liver for essential vitamins
- Calcium-rich raw meaty bones for proper fetal skeletal development
- Omega-3s from fish such as sardines or smelt to support brain development
At Paw on Raw, blends like Ground Chicken Mix, Duck Ground Mix, Lamb Ground Mix, and Beef Organ products offer all the essential building blocks needed during gestation.
2. Feeding Raw to Nursing Moms (Lactation Stage)
Once the puppies arrive, the mother’s nutritional needs increase dramatically. Producing milk is one of the most energy-intensive processes for a dog, and her diet must support both her own health and the development of her puppies.
How Much to Feed While Nursing
A nursing dog may require 2 to 3 times her normal food intake, depending on litter size. It’s normal for nursing moms to have much larger appetites — her body is working hard to nourish multiple growing puppies.
Why Raw Diets Support Milk Production
Raw feeding during lactation provides:
- Highly digestible proteins for strong, nutrient-rich milk
- Essential fatty acids that support puppy brain and vision development
- Natural minerals and vitamins that keep the mother strong and energetic
- Better hydration due to the moisture-rich nature of raw meals
Adequate calcium and phosphorus balance is critical during this stage, and raw meaty bones in Paw on Raw blends naturally support this balance.
Foods That Benefit Nursing Moms
- Ground meats (chicken, duck, lamb, beef)
- Organ blends
- Fish for DHA
- Bone broth (helps hydration + recovery)
Nursing moms often do best with 3–4 smaller meals throughout the day as their stomach space is still limited post-pregnancy.
3. Feeding Raw to Puppies — Starting the Right Way
One of the biggest myths is that puppies cannot eat raw food. In reality, dogs are born to eat real, fresh food from the beginning — their digestive systems are naturally equipped for it.
When Puppies Can Start Raw
Puppies can begin eating raw food as soon as they start weaning, typically around 3–4 weeks old. Many breeders start with finely ground meats such as Paw on Raw’s Ground Chicken Mix, which is gentle and easy to digest.
Why Raw Is Ideal for Growing Puppies
A raw diet supports:
- Faster and healthier muscle development
- Strong joints and bones
- Better immune system function
- Lower risk of allergies
- Smaller, firmer stools
- Shiny coats and healthy skin
- More stable behaviour and energy
Puppies grow rapidly, and raw offers nutrient density that processed kibble simply cannot match.
How Much to Feed Puppies
Puppies should eat 6–10% of their body weight per day, divided into 3–4 meals. As they grow, this amount gradually decreases to about 2–3% of their adult weight.
Best Raw Foods for Puppies
- Ground blends (chicken, duck, lamb)
- Organ meats in small portions
- Raw meaty bones (for pups older than 6 weeks, under supervision)
- Fish for Omega-3s
Paw on Raw’s balanced grinds ensure puppies receive the right ratio of meat, organs, and bones — essential for early development.
4. Common Concerns: Is Raw Safe for Newborn Puppies or Pregnant Dogs?
Yes — when done correctly.
Raw diets are not only safe but often preferable because they mimic the natural feeding dogs evolved with. Pregnant dogs in the wild relied entirely on raw prey — and domesticated dogs still thrive on the same biologically appropriate nutrition.
Proper handling, freezer storage, and sourcing from trusted brands like Paw on Raw ensure raw feeding remains safe at every stage of life.
5. Choosing the Right Raw Foods from Paw on Raw
For pregnancy, lactation, and puppy growth, the following products from Paw on Raw are especially beneficial:
Best Options for Pregnant Dogs & Nursing Moms
- Ground Chicken Mix
- Lamb Ground Mix
- Duck Ground Mix
- Beef Organ Mix
- Smelt or Sardines (natural DHA)
Best Options for Puppies
- Ground Chicken Mix (gentle starter blend)
- Ground Duck or Lamb (for variety)
- Organ blends in small amounts
- Bone broth for hydration and immunity
These blends provide protein variety, essential fats, balanced minerals, and clean nutrition without preservatives or fillers.
Final Thoughts
Feeding raw to pregnant dogs, nursing mothers, and puppies lays the foundation for lifelong health. The nutrients found in fresh, unprocessed foods support strong development, stable behaviour, healthy joints, and robust immune systems. Whether you’re preparing for a litter or raising a puppy, choosing a raw diet from Paw on Raw ensures your dog receives food that is biologically appropriate and nutritionally complete.
By prioritizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, you help both mom and puppies thrive — naturally, safely, and healthfully.