Homemade Raw Dog Food Recipes for Indian Breeds

 

As Indian pet parents become more conscious of their dogs’ health, many are turning to raw feeding — a natural, species-appropriate diet that mirrors what wild canines eat. But while commercial raw food brands are gaining popularity, homemade raw meals offer a powerful alternative: they’re customizable, cost-effective, and deeply nourishing.

This guide explores how to prepare raw meals at home, especially for Indian breeds like the Rajapalayam, Mudhol Hound, and Kombai. We’ll cover recipes, ratios, safety tips, and breed-specific considerations — all while linking back to our foundational article on raw dog food benefits and risks.

Why Homemade Raw Works for Indian Breeds

Indian dog breeds are uniquely adapted to local climates and diets. Their digestive systems are robust, and they often thrive on high-protein, low-carb meals. Homemade raw feeding allows you to:

•     Control ingredient quality: No fillers, preservatives, or mystery meats.
•     Customize for breed-specific needs: Adjust protein types, fat levels, and supplements.
•     Save money: Homemade meals can be more affordable than premium kibble or commercial raw brands.
•     Build trust and bonding: Preparing meals for your dog deepens your connection.

New to raw feeding? Start with our guide: Raw Dog Food: A Natural Path to Canine Wellness.

Cultural Context: Raw Feeding in India

Raw feeding is not just a Western trend — it resonates deeply with Indian traditions of natural living and holistic health. Ayurveda emphasizes fresh, unprocessed foods, and many pet parents see raw feeding as an extension of this philosophy. In rural areas, dogs have historically thrived on scraps of fresh meat, bones, and seasonal vegetables, which closely resemble modern raw diets. By embracing homemade raw meals, urban pet owners reconnect with this ancestral wisdom while adapting it to modern hygiene and nutritional standards.

Another advantage in India is ingredient availability. Local markets provide affordable access to chicken, goat, buffalo, and seasonal vegetables. Even fish like rohu or mackerel can be incorporated for omega-3s. This makes raw feeding not only practical but also culturally aligned with the Indian ethos of fresh, farm-to-table living.

Practical Tip: Rotation for Variety

To prevent nutrient gaps, rotate proteins weekly — chicken one week, lamb the next, fish occasionally. This mirrors the natural variety wild canines enjoy and keeps meals exciting for your dog. Rotation also reduces the risk of food sensitivities, a growing concern among urban pets.

Basic Raw Recipe Formula

Raw feeding isn’t guesswork — it’s a science. The most common formula is the 80-10-10 rule:

•     80% muscle meat: Chicken, lamb, buffalo, duck, or fish.
•     10% raw edible bone: Chicken necks, wings, duck frames.
•     10% organ meat: Liver, kidney, spleen (half should be liver).

Optional additions:

•     Grated vegetables: Carrot, pumpkin, spinach, beetroot.
•     Healthy fats: Coconut oil, ghee, fish oil.
•     Supplements: Turmeric, probiotics, eggshell powder (for calcium).

Always consult a vet or canine nutritionist before switching diets, especially for puppies or senior dogs.

Rajapalayam-Specific Recipe (Adult, 25–30 kg)

The Rajapalayam, a native Indian sighthound, benefits from lean proteins and anti-inflammatory ingredients. Here’s a balanced recipe:

Ingredients:

•     300g chicken thigh (boneless)
•     100g chicken necks (bone)
•     50g goat liver
•     1 tbsp grated pumpkin
•     1 tsp cold-pressed coconut oil
•     Pinch of turmeric

‍Instructions:

1.     Chop meat and organs into bite-sized pieces.
2.     Mix with grated pumpkin and oil.
3.     Serve raw or lightly seared (if transitioning).
4.     Monitor stool quality, coat shine, and energy levels.

Learn more about transitioning safely in our raw feeding guide.

Mudhol Hound Recipe (Active Adult, 20–25 kg)

Mudhols are athletic and energetic — they need high protein and moderate fat.

Ingredients:

•     250g buffalo meat (lean)
•     80g duck necks
•     40g chicken liver
•     1 tbsp grated carrot
•     1 raw egg (with shell, crushed)
•     1 tsp fish oil

Instructions:

•     Mix all ingredients and serve fresh.
•     Eggshell provides calcium; fish oil supports joints and coat.

Kombai Recipe (Senior Dog, 18–22 kg)

Kombais are muscular and resilient. Senior dogs benefit from anti-inflammatory foods and softer textures.

Ingredients:

•     200g lamb mince
•     60g chicken wings (crushed)
•     30g goat kidney
•     1 tbsp beetroot puree
•     1 tsp ghee
•     ½ tsp turmeric

Instructions:

•     Lightly sear meat if digestion is sensitive.
•     Puree vegetables for easier absorption.

Storage & Hygiene Tips

Raw feeding requires strict hygiene to protect both pets and humans.

Best practices:

•     Freeze in portions: Use airtight containers or zip-lock bags.
•     Thaw in fridge: Never at room temperature.
•     Serve in stainless steel bowls: Easy to sanitize.
•     Clean surfaces and hands: Use pet-safe disinfectants.

See our visual guide: Safe Raw Feeding Kitchen Setup.

Cost Breakdown (Monthly Estimate)

Homemade raw feeding can be surprisingly affordable — especially for medium to large Indian breeds.

        Ingredient                    Qty/Month                            Cost (INR)

        Chicken meat                    9 kg                                    ₹1,800
        Bones                                3 kg                                    ₹600
        Organs                              1.5 kg                                 ₹450
        Vegetables & oil                —                                      ₹300

        Total                              —                                  ₹3,150

Compare this with commercial raw food in our cost comparison section.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-meaning pet parents can make errors. Here’s what to watch out for:

•     Too much liver: Can cause vitamin A toxicity.
•     Unbalanced calcium-phosphorus ratio: Leads to bone issues.
•     Feeding cooked bones: Dangerous — they splinter easily.
•     Skipping supplements: Raw diets may lack omega-3s or vitamin D.

Learn more in our nutritional breakdown section.

Real Stories: Homemade Success

Nothing builds trust like real-life results. Here are a few inspiring stories from Indian pet parents:

    Ravi from Chennai: “My Rajapalayam’s coat became glossier within weeks of switching to homemade raw. His energy is unmatched.”

    Anita from Bengaluru: “I follow the 80-10-10 rule and prep meals weekly. It’s affordable and my Mudhol Hound loves it.”

    Suresh from Bhubaneswar: “My Kombai had joint stiffness. After adding turmeric and fish oil to his raw meals, he’s moving better than ever.”

Share your recipe or feeding story in the comments or tag us on Instagram.

Internal Links to Explore

To deepen your understanding and support your raw feeding journey, explore these related articles:

    Raw Dog Food: A Natural Path to Canine Wellness

    Dog Food Allergies Explained

    Best Dog Breeds for Raw Feeding in India

Final Thoughts

Feeding dogs with raw dog food is slowly becoming popular everywhere, especially in India. The outcome is good and encouraging if you can maintain the quality of the food, sourcing from authentic sources, and hygiene during storage.

Homemade raw feeding is more than a trend — it’s a lifestyle rooted in nature, nutrition, and love. For Indian breeds, it offers a tailored path to wellness that respects their heritage and physiology. With proper planning, hygiene, and guidance, you can craft meals that nourish from the inside out.

Whether you’re feeding a majestic Rajapalayam or a spirited Mudhol Hound, Power breeds like German Shepherd, labs, Dobermans, or any other breed anywhere in the world, raw food can help your dog thrive — naturally.

Start your raw feeding journey here: Raw Dog Food: A Natural Path to Canine Wellness.

 

 

 

Dog Food Myths Debunked: What Vets Want You to Know

 

Introduction: Rani’s Rice Bowl Revelation

Rani, a spirited Indie dog from Bhubaneswar, had always eaten homemade rice and chicken. But when her owner, Neha, joined an online pet forum, she was bombarded with warnings: “Rice is just filler!” “Only grain-free food is healthy!” “Homemade diets are dangerous!”

Panicked, Neha switched to an expensive grain-free kibble. Within days, Rani had loose stools, refused meals, and scratched constantly. A vet visit revealed the truth: Rani wasn’t allergic to rice—she was reacting to peas and lentils in the grain-free formula.

The vet smiled gently. “There’s a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s find what works for Rani—not what trends say.”

This article is your myth-busting guide—based on veterinary insights, real stories, and practical advice. Let’s separate fact from fiction and feed with clarity.

Myth #1: “Grains Are Bad for All Dogs”

Story: The Rajapalayam Who Loved Rice

Arjun from Chennai adopted a majestic Rajapalayam named Veera. Influenced by Western blogs, he fed Veera a grain-free diet packed with lentils and chickpeas. But Veera developed bloating and lethargy.

A local vet explained that Indian breeds like Rajapalayam are genetically adapted to rice-based diets. Their digestive systems handle rice, curd, and pumpkin better than legumes. Arjun switched back to homemade rice and chicken, and Veera’s energy returned.

Truth: Grains like rice and oats are digestible and beneficial for most dogs. Only dogs with diagnosed grain allergies need grain-free diets. Blanket avoidance can cause more harm than good.

Myth #2: “By-Products Are Always Harmful”

Many pet parents panic when they see “chicken by-product meal” on a label. It sounds like waste—but that’s not always true.

Truth: By-products can include nutrient-rich organs like liver, heart, and kidney. These are natural sources of vitamins and minerals. What matters is quality and sourcing. Reputable brands use clean, inspected by-products. Low-grade fillers, however, are problematic.

Vet Tip: Look for brands that specify the source—“chicken liver” is better than “meat by-product.” Transparency is key.

Myth #3: “Homemade Food Is Always Incomplete”

Homemade food gets a bad rap for being nutritionally imbalanced. But with planning and vet guidance, it can be complete and nourishing.

Truth: Homemade diets need:

•     Protein (chicken, fish, paneer)
•     Carbs (rice, oats, sweet potato)
•     Fiber (pumpkin, spinach)
•     Fats (coconut oil, fish oil)
•     Calcium (eggshell powder, bone broth)
•     Probiotics (curd)

Example Recipe:

•     ½ cup boiled chicken
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup pumpkin
•     1 tsp curd
•     1 tsp coconut oil
•     Pinch of turmeric

Vet Tip: Rotate ingredients weekly and add supplements. Homemade food isn’t incomplete—it’s customizable.

Myth #4: “Expensive Food Means Better Quality”

Price tags don’t guarantee nutrition. Some premium brands use marketing over substance.

Truth: Budget-friendly brands like Drools Focus or Canine Creek offer solid nutrition. What matters is:

•     Ingredient list (meat-first, no fillers)
•     Digestibility
•     Vet approval
•     Your dog’s response

Vet Tip: Choose food based on your dog’s age, breed, and health—not price. Observe stool, coat, and energy—not packaging.

Myth #5: “Dogs Should Eat Like Wolves”

Raw feeding and “ancestral diets” are trendy—but not always safe.

Truth: Domestic dogs have evolved to digest starches. Raw meat can carry pathogens. Bones may splinter. Unless guided by a vet, raw diets can cause deficiencies or illness.

Vet Tip: If you want to try raw feeding, start with cooked versions and consult a canine nutritionist. Safety first.

Myth #6: “Label Buzzwords Guarantee Quality”

Words like “natural,” “premium,” and “holistic” aren’t regulated. They can mislead.

Truth: Ignore buzzwords. Focus on:

•     Named proteins (“chicken” vs “meat meal”)
•     No artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT)
•     Clear feeding guidelines
•     AAFCO compliance

Vet Tip: Read the back of the pack—not the front. That’s where truth lives.

Myth #7: “Dogs Can’t Be Vegetarian”

While dogs are omnivores, some thrive on vegetarian diets—especially with vet guidance.

Truth: Paneer, lentils, eggs, and curd can provide protein. But vegetarian diets must be carefully balanced with supplements.

Vet Tip: Vegetarian feeding is possible, but not easy. Always consult a vet and monitor your dog’s health closely.

Myth #8: “Dogs Should Eat the Same Food Every Day”

Many pet parents stick to one brand or recipe for months, believing consistency is key. While routine helps digestion, nutritional variety is essential.

Truth: Dogs benefit from rotating proteins (chicken, fish, eggs), carbs (rice, oats, sweet potato), and vegetables. This prevents nutrient gaps, reduces food fatigue, and supports gut diversity.

Vet Tip: Create a weekly rotation chart. For example:

•     Monday: Chicken & rice
•     Tuesday: Fish & oats
•     Wednesday: Paneer & pumpkin
•     Thursday: Eggs & sweet potato
•     Friday: Lentils & spinach

Introduce new ingredients gradually and monitor stool quality. Rotation isn’t risky—it’s enriching.

Myth #9: “Senior Dogs Don’t Need High Protein”

Some believe older dogs should eat less protein to protect their kidneys. But low protein can lead to muscle loss and weakness.

Truth: Senior dogs need high-quality, digestible protein to maintain muscle mass, immunity, and energy. The key is not less protein—but better protein.

Vet Tip: Use lean meats (chicken, fish), eggs, and paneer. Avoid fatty cuts or raw meat. Add turmeric and fish oil for joint support. Monitor kidney health with regular vet checkups.

Feeding seniors isn’t about restriction—it’s about precision.

Myth #10: “Dogs Can’t Digest Carbohydrates”

Some raw-feeding advocates claim dogs are carnivores and can’t digest carbs. But dogs are omnivores—they’ve evolved alongside humans to digest starches.

Truth: Dogs produce amylase, an enzyme that breaks down carbs. Rice, oats, and sweet potato are easily digestible and provide energy and fiber.

Vet Tip: Use cooked carbs in moderation. Avoid sugary or processed grains. Combine with protein and fiber for balanced meals.

Carbs aren’t the enemy—they’re part of a complete diet.

Final Thoughts: Feed with Facts, Not Fear

Rani and Veera remind us: every dog is unique. Myths can mislead, but observation, vet guidance, and love lead to clarity.

Feeding isn’t about trends—it’s about trust. Trust your vet. Trust your dog’s body. And trust your instincts.

Because when you feed with facts, you nourish more than just a body—you nourish a bond.