What is the 80-10-10 Rule for Raw Dog Food?

Raw Dog Food: Understanding the 80-10-10 Feeding Formula

Raw dog food is gaining popularity among pet parents seeking a natural, nutrient-rich diet—and at the core of this approach is the well-known “80-10-10” formula. If you’ve researched raw feeding, you’ve likely come across this term. It’s a simple, easy-to-remember guideline many raw feeders use to build a balanced meal for their dogs.

But what exactly does the 80-10-10 ratio mean? Why is it so important for raw-fed dogs? And how can you use it correctly to ensure your dog gets complete and balanced nutrition?

In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explain the 80-10-10 rule in raw dog food, covering its nutritional foundation, how to apply it at home, common mistakes to avoid, and how BARF India incorporates this philosophy into its expertly crafted raw meals.

Table of Contents

1. What is the 80-10-10 Rule for Raw Dog Food?
2. Why is the 80-10-10 Ratio Important for Dogs?
3. Breaking Down the Components: What Goes Into Each Category?
4. Benefits of Feeding Your Dog an 80-10-10 Raw Diet
5. Potential Risks and Mistakes to Avoid
6. How to Start Raw Feeding With the 80-10-10 Rule
7. How BARF India Follows the 80-10-10 Principle
8. Frequently Asked Questions
9. Final Thoughts

What is the 80-10-10 Rule for Raw Dog Food?

The 80-10-10 rule is a guideline for feeding dogs a raw diet that mimics the composition of whole prey. It consists of:

·       80% Muscle Meat

·       10% Raw Edible Bone

·       10% Organ Meat (of which 5% should be liver and the other 5% other secreting organs like kidney, spleen, pancreas)

This ratio is designed to replicate the natural diet of wild canines like wolves, who eat whole animals — bones, organs, and all.

By feeding your dog this way, you're offering a nutritionally complete and biologically appropriate diet without the need for synthetic supplements (in most cases).

Why is the 80-10-10 Ratio Important for Dogs?

Dogs are facultative carnivores, meaning they thrive on animal-based diets but can digest some plant matter. The 80-10-10 model ensures your dog receives the right balance of protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, and minerals without depending on artificial additives.

Key Nutritional Goals:

·       Muscle meat provides protein and essential amino acids.

·       Bones supply calcium and phosphorus for bone and joint health.

·       Organs are nutrient-dense superfoods rich in vitamins A, B, and essential minerals like iron and zinc.

Feeding raw using this ratio can help prevent:

·       Nutrient deficiencies

·       Obesity (due to high-carb kibble)

·       Skin allergies

·       Digestive issues

Breaking Down the Components

1. 80% Muscle Meat

This isn’t just steak or chicken breast. “Muscle meat” in raw feeding includes a variety of skeletal muscles, such as:

·       Beef chuck

·       Chicken thighs (boneless)

·       Turkey breast

·       Lamb shoulder

·       Gizzards and heart (though technically organs, they are considered muscle meat)

Muscle meat is the foundation of the diet, supplying protein, iron, B-vitamins, and fat for energy.

2. 10% Raw Edible Bone

Raw bones are crucial for providing calcium and maintaining dental health. They should be:

·       Raw (never cooked — cooked bones can splinter!)

·       Edible and soft (like chicken wings, necks, and feet)

Avoid weight-bearing bones of large animals like cows or buffalo, as they can break your dog’s teeth.

3. 10% Organ Meat

Organs are nutrient powerhouses. The breakdown is:

·       5% Liver – A must-have in every raw diet. Rich in vitamin A, copper, and folate.

·       5% Other Organs – Kidney, spleen, pancreas, or brain. Rotate different organs for variety.

Feeding too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity, so it’s essential to stick to the ratios.

Benefits of Feeding Your Dog an 80-10-10 Raw Diet

1.       Healthier Skin and Coat: Raw-fed dogs often have shinier coats, less itching, and reduced dandruff thanks to high-quality animal fats and fewer allergens.

2.       Better Digestive Health: Dogs on raw diets produce smaller, firmer stools because more of the food is bioavailable and absorbed.

3.       Improved Dental Hygiene: Gnawing on raw meaty bones naturally cleans your dog’s teeth and prevents tartar buildup.

4.       Stronger Immunity: Organ meats, being nutrient-dense, boost your dog’s immune system and resistance to infections.

5.       Higher Energy Levels: Many raw-fed dogs show increased stamina and overall vitality.

Potential Risks and Mistakes to Avoid

Like any diet, the 80-10-10 plan isn’t foolproof unless done correctly. Here are some common pitfalls:

1.       Feeding Too Much Liver: Excessive liver can lead to hypervitaminosis A, a condition caused by too much vitamin A.

2.       Using Inappropriate Bones: Never feed cooked bones or hard marrow bones that can splinter or break teeth.

3.       Lack of Variety: Feeding only one type of protein (like just chicken) can lead to imbalances. Rotate between beef, lamb, duck, turkey, fish, etc.

4.       Ignoring Supplements When Necessary: Some dogs may need omega-3 supplementation, especially if they don’t get enough oily fish.

How to Start Raw Feeding With the 80-10-10 Rule

Step 1: Research

Understand your dog’s specific needs based on age, weight, breed, and activity level.

Step 2: Start Simple

Begin with a single protein source like chicken or turkey and introduce bones and organs gradually over 2–3 weeks.

Step 3: Track Portion Sizes

Feed approximately 2-3% of your dog’s ideal adult body weight daily. Adjust based on body condition.

Dog Weight (kg)	Daily Raw Intake (g)
5 kg	100–150 g
10 kg	200–300 g
20 kg	400–600 g
30 kg	600–900 g

Step 4: Rotate Proteins and Organs

Ensure a variety of meats and organs over time to prevent nutrient gaps.

How BARF India Follows the 80-10-10 Principle

BARF India (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is a leading raw pet food company in India dedicated to crafting species-appropriate meals based on the 80-10-10 formula. With over 37 years of experience in animal nutrition and a commitment to regenerative farming, BARF India raises its own chicken, duck, turkey, and quail on ethical farms.

What sets BARF India apart?

• Balanced raw meals using the correct ratios of meat, bones, and organs.
• Responsibly sourced ingredients from their own farms and trusted partners.
• Custom meal plans tailored to your dog’s breed, age, and health needs.

Whether you’re new to raw feeding or want a trusted provider, BARF India offers a convenient way to adopt the 80-10-10 lifestyle without the stress of DIY.

Explore their offerings at www.barfindia.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I add vegetables to the 80-10-10 diet?

While 80-10-10 is strictly animal-based, some raw feeders include 5-10% pureed veggies like spinach, pumpkin, or carrots for fiber and phytonutrients.

2. Is the 80-10-10 diet safe for puppies?

Yes, but it must be carefully balanced for their growth needs. Always consult a canine nutritionist.

3. Can I feed cooked meat instead?

Cooking alters the nutrient profile and eliminates the benefits of raw bones. If cooking, adjust calcium and phosphorous levels accordingly.

4. Do I need to add supplements?

If you rotate proteins and organs properly, many dogs won’t need extras. However, some may benefit from fish oil, kelp, or probiotics.

5. How do I store raw dog food safely?

Store in airtight containers in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator and serve fresh within 2–3 days.

Final Thoughts

The 80-10-10 raw dog food model is a fantastic starting point for pet parents who want to feed their dogs a natural, species-appropriate diet. By mimicking a dog’s ancestral eating habits, this feeding method delivers balanced nutrition, better health outcomes, and a deeper bond with your canine companion.

That said, raw feeding requires responsibility. Knowing what goes into your dog’s bowl—and why—will set you and your dog up for success. Brands like BARF India make this journey easier by providing ready-to-serve, nutritionally complete meals rooted in the 80-10-10 principle.

If you’re ready to switch from kibble to raw or just curious about giving your dog the healthiest life possible, the 80-10-10 diet is a powerful, natural step forward.

Ready to take the plunge into raw feeding?
Explore BARF India’s range of raw dog food options at www.barfindia.com and give your pet the nourishment they truly deserve.