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Understanding the 80-10-10 Rule for Raw Dog Food
The 80-10-10 rule is a foundational guideline for crafting a raw diet that mirrors what wild canines consume in nature. It consists of 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meat, a formula designed to meet a dog’s biological and nutritional needs. Rooted in the prey model raw (PMR)
approach, this ratio supports optimal performance and health, making it a favorite among dog breeders and trainers aiming for high-performing,
aesthetically exceptional dogs.
Adopting this diet helps minimize exposure to the additives and fillers often
found in commercial pet foods, offering a more natural and tailored approach to nutrition.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for a Safe and Balanced Diet
Selecting the right ingredients is crucial to making the 80-10-10 rule work effectively. Not all proteins or bones are created equal, and understanding the distinctions can make a significant difference.
● Muscle Meat: Includes cuts like chicken breast, beef chunks, or
turkey thighs. Avoid processed meats, which may contain harmful preservatives.
● Bone: Opt for raw, edible bones like chicken necks or turkey wings that are soft enough for safe consumption. Cooked bones are dangerous as they can splinter and cause harm.
● Organ Meat: Liver and other secreting organs like kidneys or spleen are essential for providing critical vitamins and minerals.
A well-constructed raw meal isn’t just about following the ratio—it’s about sourcing quality, safe, and species-appropriate ingredients.
Ensuring Nutritional Balance Over Time
While the 80-10-10 rule is an excellent starting point, variety is key to
achieving nutritional completeness. Feeding multiple protein sources—at least five over time—is essential for covering gaps in micronutrients.
For example, a rotation of beef, chicken, fish, lamb, and duck not only ensures diversity but also reduces the risk of food sensitivities. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids or certain vitamins can also help fill in any nutritional gaps, especially if certain ingredients are unavailable.
Remember, balance doesn’t need to be achieved in a single meal. Look at
the bigger picture of your dog’s diet over weeks or months to ensure all their needs are met.
Simplifying Raw Feeding with Tools and Resources
Raw feeding can initially feel daunting, but with the right tools and resources, it’s manageable—even for busy breeders and trainers. Online calculators designed for raw feeding can help you adjust quantities based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and breed. Ingredient guides make it easy to determine what counts toward the 80-10-10 ratio.
For sourcing quality raw ingredients, reliable raw dog food providers can help simplify the process. They offer a variety of fresh, biologically
appropriate options to meet the needs of breeders looking for premium raw food solutions.
Conclusion
Raw feeding with the 80-10-10 rule is an excellent way to provide a natural and biologically appropriate diet for your dogs. While it may seem complex at first, understanding the basics, sourcing quality ingredients, and
leveraging helpful tools can make the process straightforward and
rewarding. With the right approach, breeders and trainers can ensure their dogs thrive on a diet as nature intended.
