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.

 

 

 

Raw Dog Food: Benefits, Risks & Tips for a Healthier Canine Diet

 

Raw dog food is more than a trend—it’s a return to nature. As pet parents seek healthier, species-appropriate diets for their dogs, raw feeding has emerged as a compelling alternative to processed kibble. But is it truly better? This guide explores the benefits, risks, myths, costs, and practical tips to help you decide if raw is right for your canine companion.

What Is Raw Dog Food?

Raw dog food typically includes uncooked muscle meat, organ meat, bones, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. It mimics the ancestral diet of wild canines and is often referred to as the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food).

Common formats:

•     Homemade meals: Prepared fresh using raw ingredients.
•     Commercial raw patties: Pre-portioned and frozen.
•     Freeze-dried raw: Lightweight and shelf-stable.

Raw feeding emphasizes minimal processing, aiming to preserve nutrients and enzymes that cooking may destroy.

Benefits of Raw Feeding

Many dog owners report dramatic improvements after switching to raw. Here’s what the science and anecdotal evidence suggest:

•     Shinier coat and healthier skin: Thanks to natural fats and oils.
•     Smaller, firmer stools: Indicating better digestion.
•     Increased energy and vitality: Especially in active breeds.
•     Improved dental health: Chewing raw bones helps reduce plaque.
•     Reduced allergies and inflammation: Due to fewer additives and grains.

These benefits are especially noticeable in breeds prone to skin issues or digestive sensitivities, like Beagles, Labradors, and Rajapalayams.

Risks and Considerations

Raw feeding isn’t without its challenges. Responsible pet parents must weigh the risks:

•     Bacterial contamination: Raw meat can carry pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli.
•     Nutritional imbalance: Without proper ratios, dogs may lack essential nutrients.
•     Bone hazards: Improperly sized or cooked bones can splinter and cause injuries.
•     Veterinary skepticism: Some vets caution against raw diets due to safety concerns.

 Tip: Always consult a canine nutritionist or vet before switching to raw.

 Nutritional Breakdown

A balanced raw diet typically follows this ratio:

•     70% muscle meat
•     10% raw edible bone
•     10% organ meat (half liver)
•     10% vegetables/fruits/supplements

Key nutrients to monitor:

•     Calcium-phosphorus balance: Crucial for bone health.
•     Omega-3 fatty acids: For skin, coat, and brain function.
•     Vitamin D, E, and B-complex: Often supplemented.

Mistakes in formulation can lead to deficiencies or excesses—especially in growing puppies.

Choosing the Right Raw Food

Whether you go DIY or buy commercial, quality matters.

Homemade:

•     Pros: Full control over ingredients.
•     Cons: Time-consuming, requires nutritional expertise.

Commercial:

•     Pros: Convenient, often vet-formulated.
•     Cons: Can be expensive, quality varies.

What to look for:

•     Transparent sourcing: Human-grade, ethically raised meat.
•     Third-party testing: For pathogens and nutrient content.
•     No fillers or preservatives

In India, brands like TailTrums, Doggie Dabbas, and Canine India are gaining traction among raw feeders.

Transitioning Your Dog to Raw

Switching to raw should be gradual and monitored closely.

Step-by-step guide:

1.     Start with a 50-50 mix of raw and current food.
2.     Introduce one protein at a time (e.g., chicken, then lamb).
3.     Watch stool quality—loose stools may indicate adjustment issues.
4.     Hydrate well—raw-fed dogs often drink less, but hydration is key.

Keep a feeding journal to track changes in energy, coat, and digestion.

Raw Feeding Myths vs. Facts

Let’s bust some common misconceptions:

            Myth                                                                            Reality

    Raw food is dangerous due to bacteria.        With proper handling, it’s safe.
    Dogs need grains for energy.                        Dogs can thrive on grain-free diets.
    Bones are always risky.                                Raw bones are generally safe when sized correctly.
    Raw feeding is too expensive.                      DIY options can be budget-friendly.

Veterinary opinions vary, but many holistic vets support raw feeding when done responsibly.

Cost Comparison: Raw vs. Kibble

Initial Costs: Raw feeding may seem expensive upfront due to quality ingredients and storage needs.

Long-Term Savings: Fewer vet visits, reduced allergy treatments, and better overall health can offset costs.

DIY vs. Commercial: Homemade raw meals can be more affordable but require time and nutritional knowledge.

Is raw feeding affordable? Let’s break it down.

Monthly cost for a 20kg dog:

        Diet Type                                        Estimated Cost (INR)

    Premium Kibble                                        ₹3,000–₹4,500
    Commercial Raw                                      ₹5,000–₹7,000
    Homemade Raw                                        ₹3,500–₹5,000

While raw may cost more upfront, long-term savings include fewer vet visits and reduced allergy treatments.

Bulk buying and prepping meals weekly can cut costs significantly.

Tip: Include a sample monthly cost breakdown for a medium-sized dog on raw vs. premium kibble.

Storage, Prep & Hygiene Tips

Raw feeding requires strict hygiene to keep pets and humans safe. It isn't just about what you feed — it’s also how you handle it.

Best practices:

1.     Freeze in portions: Use airtight containers.
2.     Thaw in fridge: Never at room temperature.
3.     Serve in stainless steel bowls: Easy to sanitize.
4.     Clean surfaces and hands: Use pet-safe disinfectants.

Consider adding an infographic: “Safe Raw Feeding Kitchen Setup” for visual impact.

Real Stories: Raw Diet Transformations

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

    Bruno the Beagle: “After switching to raw, Bruno’s itchy skin cleared up in weeks. His energy levels are through the roof!”

    Maya the Rajapalayam: “We noticed fewer digestive issues and a shinier coat within a month of transitioning Maya to raw.”

    Tara’s Tip: “I started with a 50-50 mix of kibble and raw. Now my senior Labrador is thriving on full raw!”

If you have similar or notewrothy experiences with "Raw Food Diet" for your dog you can share with us here in the comments section. That is going to be a great confidence booster for all of the dog-parents.

Final Thoughts: Is Raw Right for Your Dog?

Raw feeding isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires commitment, education, and careful observation. But for many dogs, it offers a vibrant, healthful life that processed food simply can’t match.

If you’re ready to explore raw feeding:

•     Start slow
•     Consult a vet
•     Track your dog’s progress
•     Stay informed and flexible

Your dog’s wellness journey is personal—and raw food might just be the natural path they’ve been waiting for.