How to Balance an 80:10:10 Raw Diet for Dogs: A Complete Guide
The 80:10:10 raw feeding model is widely embraced by raw feeders as it mimics what a dog’s ancestors would have eaten in the wild. This model consists of 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meat (with 5% being liver). While this is a fantastic starting point for raw feeders, it’s important to recognize that this ratio alone does not provide all the nutrients necessary for your dog to thrive. To fully balance this diet, key nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids need to be added.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what to add to an 80:10:10 diet, how much to give, and how often, ensuring that your dog receives a truly balanced raw diet.
Why the 80:10:10 Raw Diet Needs Balancing
Although the 80:10:10 model is based on the prey model diet, it can lack certain vital nutrients. Essential vitamins like vitamin E, minerals like zinc and manganese, and omega-3 fatty acids may be missing from this diet. Wild prey would naturally provide these nutrients, but when feeding commercial or even locally sourced meats, these gaps arise. Ensuring that your dog’s diet is fully balanced is crucial for their long-term health, promoting a healthy coat, optimal brain function, joint support, and overall immune strength.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Why and How to Add Them
Why it’s needed: Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for reducing inflammation, supporting cognitive function, and promoting a shiny coat. Dogs fed meat from conventionally raised animals often miss out on omega-3s, as these animals have higher levels of omega-6, which can lead to inflammation if unbalanced.
What To Add
• Oily fish such as sardines, mackerel, or herring
• Omega 3 oil supplements like Green Lipped Mussel oil or Algae oil
How much/How Often
• If using an omega 3 oil, aim for 100 mg of combined EPA/DHA per kg of body weight daily.
• If using whole fish, offer 1–2 sardines or mackerel per week, adjusting the portion based on your dog’s size.
Adding fish to your dog’s diet 2–3 times per week is an easy and effective way to boost omega-3 intake.
What about plant sources of omega 3?
While plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseed and chia seeds, are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), they should not be relied upon as primary sources of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) for dogs. ALA is the precursor to EPA and DHA, the biologically active forms of omega-3s that support critical bodily functions, including anti-inflammatory processes, brain health, and cardiovascular function. However, dogs have a limited capacity to convert ALA to EPA and DHA due to the inefficiency of the conversion enzymes involved.
Studies indicate that this conversion rate can be as low as 1-5%, meaning that the majority of ALA remains unmetabolized and does not contribute meaningfully to the levels of EPA and DHA in the body to receive sufficient amounts of these essential fatty acids, direct sources such as fish oil or algal oil (suitable for plant-based diets) are recommended, as these contain preformed EPA and DHA, providing more effective and readily available support for the dog’s health.
2. Vitamin E: The Unsung Antioxidant
Why it’s needed: When supplementing with omega-3s, it’s important to balance with Vitamin E to prevent oxidative stress. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and is critical for cell health.
This is where vitamin E comes into play. As a potent antioxidant, vitamin E neutralizes these free radicals, preventing cellular damage and supporting overall health. It plays an essential role in protecting cell membranes and maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and immune function.
Insufficient levels of vitamin E in a diet supplemented with omega-3s can lead to a depletion of the dog’s natural antioxidant stores, ultimately compromising cell integrity and leading to oxidative damage. This is particularly concerning given that polyunsaturated fats, such as those found in omega-3s, have a higher oxidation potential compared to other types of fats. Therefore, ensuring that dogs on an 80:10:10 diet receive an appropriate amount of vitamin E alongside omega-3 supplements is critical to maintain oxidative balance and protect against cellular damage.
It’s also important to source vitamin E in a natural form (d-alpha-tocopherol) rather than synthetic (dl-alpha-tocopherol), as the former is more bioavailable and effective. The recommended dosage will vary based on the individual dog’s needs, the type of omega-3 supplement used, and the overall diet composition. Including sources of vitamin E, such as wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, and leafy greens, can help, but targeted supplementation may be necessary to ensure adequate intake, especially if high levels of omega-3s are included in the diet.
Balancing omega-3s with vitamin E not only supports cellular health but also enhances the overall efficacy of omega-3s in the body, making it an indispensable part of a well-rounded diet plan.
What To Add
• Natural Vitamin E supplements (d-alpha-tocopherol)
• Sunflower seeds or wheat germ oil
• Leafy Greens
How much/How Often
• Dogs weighing under 13.6 kg (30 lbs) should receive 50–100 IU of Vitamin E daily, while larger dogs weighing between 13.6–27.2 kg (30–60 lbs) can benefit from 200–400 IU daily. Adjust the dosage based on the individual dog’s needs, considering factors like age, activity level, and health condition.
• You can sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of wheat germ oil over meals 2–3 times a week.
3. Zinc: For Immune Function and Skin Health
Why it’s needed: Zinc is a vital trace mineral that plays a crucial role in numerous biological functions, including immune response, skin integrity, and wound healing. It is a key component in enzyme systems that help support cell division, protein synthesis, and DNA formation, all of which are fundamental to maintaining a dog’s overall health and resilience to illness. Additionally, zinc supports healthy coat growth and helps prevent skin conditions such as dermatitis and dryness.
Dogs fed diets high in bone or those low in red meat may not receive adequate levels of zinc. This is particularly relevant in an 80:10:10 raw feeding model, where muscle meat and organs often make up the bulk of the diet. While certain types of muscle meats do contain zinc, the most bioavailable sources are red meats, such as beef and lamb, which are richer in zinc compared to poultry or fish. Diets heavy in bone content can also exacerbate zinc deficiencies due to high levels of calcium, which can interfere with zinc absorption. Over time, inadequate zinc intake can lead to compromised immune function, poor wound healing, and skin problems.
What To Add
• Oysters (one of the best natural sources of zinc)
• Beef liver (already part of the 80:10:10 but add a little more if necessary)
How much/How Often
• Offer 1–2 oysters per week. For smaller dogs, you can halve this amount.
• Consider adding 1–2 ounces of beef liver once a week if you are not already feeding a liver-heavy organ component.
4. Manganese: Joint Support and Bone Development
Why it’s needed: Why it’s needed: Manganese is essential for various metabolic and structural functions in the body. This trace mineral acts as a cofactor for several enzymes, including those involved in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans—key components of cartilage and joint fluid that help maintain healthy joint cushioning and mobility. Manganese is also involved in the formation of bone matrix, assisting in the development and maintenance of strong and resilient bones. Without adequate manganese, a dog’s body may struggle to produce sufficient cartilage and bone tissue, potentially leading to joint pain, stiffness, and developmental issues.
Furthermore, manganese plays a role in energy metabolism by participating in the process of converting fats and proteins into usable energy, which is important for active dogs and those in growth stages. It also contributes to antioxidant defense mechanisms through its role in the enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). This enzyme is a critical part of the body’s defense against oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to inflammation and chronic diseases. Adequate manganese levels help ensure that dogs maintain proper joint function, bone health, and overall metabolic balance.
What To Add
• Green-Lipped Mussels: These are a powerhouse source of natural manganese and have the added benefit of containing omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine, further supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Nutrient-dense and rich in manganese, pumpkin seeds can be ground and sprinkled over meals to boost intake.
• Blueberries: These antioxidant-rich fruits provide not only manganese but also a host of vitamins and phytonutrients to support overall health.
How much/How Often
• Green-Lipped Mussels: Offer 1–2 mussels per serving, 2–3 times a week. For dogs that may not eat whole mussels, a high-quality green-lipped mussel powder can be used as an alternative.
• Pumpkin Seeds and Blueberries: Incorporate a small handful of pumpkin seeds or blueberries as part of a treat or meal topper throughout the week. Pumpkin seeds should be given in moderation and ideally ground to improve digestibility.
Ensuring that manganese is part of a dog’s diet is essential for long-term joint support and healthy bone structure. These nutrient additions not only enhance the diet but also contribute to a more balanced nutritional profile.
5. Iodine: For Thyroid Function
Why it’s needed: Iodine is a vital mineral necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, which play a central role in regulating a dog’s metabolism, energy levels, and overall growth and development. These hormones—thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3)—are responsible for numerous bodily processes, including the regulation of metabolic rate, body temperature, and proper functioning of various organ systems. Without adequate iodine intake, dogs may experience thyroid dysfunction, which can manifest as hypothyroidism. This condition can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, weight gain, dry skin, and poor coat quality, impacting a dog’s quality of life and long-term health.
In the wild, dogs would typically obtain iodine from consuming whole prey, particularly glandular tissues like the thyroid gland. However, in raw-fed domestic diets, these sources are often absent or insufficient, leading to potential iodine deficiencies. It’s crucial to incorporate iodine-rich foods into a dog’s diet to maintain optimal thyroid function and support overall metabolic health.
What To Add
• Kelp Powder or Seaweed: These are excellent natural sources of iodine that can be easily added to meals to ensure adequate intake.
How much/How Often
• General Guideline: For medium-sized dogs, a typical recommendation is about 150 mcg of iodine per day. Adjust the dosage based on the dog’s size, activity level, and specific needs.
• Caution: Be mindful not to over-supplement iodine, as excessive intake can disrupt thyroid function and potentially lead to hyperthyroidism. Regular monitoring and consulting with a canine nutrition expert or veterinarian are advised to avoid imbalances.
6. Calcium to Phosphorus Balance
Why it’s needed: Maintaining a proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is crucial for your dog’s skeletal health, growth, and development. Calcium is vital for the formation and maintenance of strong bones and teeth, as well as for proper muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. Phosphorus, on the other hand, supports bone mineralization and cellular repair. However, an imbalance between these two minerals can lead to significant health issues. Too little calcium can cause the body to leach calcium from bones, leading to weakened bone structure, fractures, or conditions such as nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. Conversely, excessive calcium, especially when phosphorus intake is low, can result in bone abnormalities and hinder proper bone development, particularly in growing puppies.
In an 80:10:10 raw feeding model, which consists of 80% meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meats, there can be a risk of calcium deficiency if bone content is skimped on or replaced with boneless meats. This imbalance may lead to an inadequate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio since meat contains significantly more phosphorus than calcium. Ensuring the right balance is paramount to prevent bone and joint issues, maintain optimal skeletal integrity, and support other vital body functions.
What To Add
• Eggshell Powder: A natural and easily digestible source of calcium, eggshell powder can be used as a supplement for diets low in bone content.
• Whole Meaty Raw Bones: For dogs that tolerate bones well, adding whole meaty raw bones ensures a natural source of calcium and other trace minerals.
How much/How Often
• Eggshell Powder: A general guideline is to add about 1/2 teaspoon of finely ground eggshell powder per pound of meat if the bone content in the diet is insufficient. This helps to meet calcium needs without disrupting the phosphorus balance.
• Monitoring: Always ensure that your dog is not over-supplemented with calcium, as excessive calcium can impair phosphorus absorption and disrupt bone homeostasis. Regular consultations with a canine nutrition expert or vet are advised for optimal dietary planning, especially for puppies and lactating females.
7. Variety in Organs: Beyond Liver
Why it’s needed: While liver is a nutrient-dense organ that provides essential vitamins such as A, B12, and minerals like iron, relying solely on it for the organ portion of an 80:10:10 raw diet can limit the range of nutrients your dog receives. Each type of organ contributes a unique nutritional profile that supports different bodily functions. For example, kidneys are rich in vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support cellular health and metabolic processes. Spleen provides high amounts of iron and vitamin C, aiding in immune function and blood health. The pancreas is valuable for its natural enzymes that support digestion, while brain tissue offers beneficial fats and nutrients like phosphatidylcholine and omega-3s that aid in brain health and cognitive function.
Adding variety in organ meats ensures that your dog benefits from a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids that contribute to overall health. These micronutrients are vital for supporting immune function, skin and coat health, cognitive development, and energy metabolism. Moreover, feeding a variety of organ meats can help prevent nutritional gaps and support optimal growth, maintenance, and resilience in your dog’s body.
What To Add
• Kidney, Spleen, Pancreas, or Brain: Introduce these organs alongside liver to enhance the nutrient diversity in your dog’s diet.
How much/How Often
• Organ Component Ratio: The organ portion of the diet should consist of 5% liver and 5% other organs such as kidneys or spleen.
• Rotation for Variety: Regularly rotate organ meats to provide a more comprehensive nutrient profile and ensure balanced nutrition. This approach mimics the natural diet of wild canines, which would consume various organs for full nutritional benefits.
8. Green Tripe: Green tripe is an unparalleled natural superfood for dogs, known for its impressive benefits to gut health and overall digestion. This nutrient-rich food comes from the stomach lining of ruminant animals (e.g., cows and sheep) and is packed with probiotics and digestive enzymes that help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, support a healthy balance in the gut, reducing the risk of digestive issues and enhancing the immune system. Digestive enzymes aid in breaking down food more efficiently, facilitating the absorption of nutrients and improving overall digestion.
In addition to its probiotic and enzyme content, green tripe provides essential fatty acids and a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, making it a holistic addition to a raw diet. A healthy gut is vital for the immune system, as approximately 70% of a dog’s immune function is linked to gut health. Dogs with sensitive stomachs, chronic gastrointestinal issues, or those recovering from illness can particularly benefit from the gentle and nutrient-dense properties of green tripe.
What To Add
• Unbleached Raw Green Tripe: Ensure that the tripe is unbleached and raw, as processing can strip it of its beneficial properties, including probiotics and enzymes.
How much/How Often
• Serving Recommendations: Add 2–3 ounces of green tripe to your dog’s meals 2–3 times a week. This frequency helps maintain a healthy gut environment and supports dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive disturbances.
• Adjust as Needed: The amount can be adjusted based on your dog’s size and individual needs. For optimal benefits, incorporate green tripe regularly as part of a well-rounded diet that prioritises digestive wellness.
9. Fruits and Vegetables: Optional but Beneficial
Why it’s helpful: While not a mandatory part of a raw diet, incorporating fruits and vegetables can significantly enhance a dog’s overall health. These plant-based foods are rich in fiber, which supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Fiber also contributes to maintaining a healthy weight by promoting satiety. Additionally, fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients that play crucial roles in cellular health, immune function, and anti-inflammatory processes. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, protecting the body from oxidative stress, which can contribute to aging and disease. Phytonutrients found in dark leafy greens, berries, and other colorful fruits and vegetables help support brain health, protect the heart, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.
Some vegetables, like carrots and broccoli, are also good sources of beta-carotene, which supports vision and skin health, while dark leafy greens like spinach and kale offer vitamin K, calcium, and iron for bone health and proper blood function. For dogs prone to digestive issues, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables can also help promote a healthy gut microbiome and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. However, these should be offered in moderation, as some vegetables can be hard for dogs to digest if given in large quantities.
What To Add
• Dark Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale.
• Vegetables: peppers, broccoli, asparagus, cucumber, mushrooms.
• Fruits: Berries, apples (ensure seeds are removed), pears and bananas.
How much/How Often
• Serving Recommendations: Include 5–10% of your dog’s diet with vegetables and fruits, ensuring they are blended or lightly steamed for easier digestion.
• Variety is Key: Rotate different vegetables and fruits regularly to provide a broad range of nutrients and keep meals interesting. Be mindful of your dog’s individual tolerance and adjust portions accordingly.
Plant matter to avoid
High-carb, high-sugar plant matter and legumes should be avoided or limited in a dog’s diet due to their potential to cause metabolic issues, digestive distress, and nutrient imbalances. Dogs are obligate carnivores and are not biologically equipped to process large amounts of carbohydrates or sugar, which can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and diabetes.
High-sugar fruits and starchy vegetables can also disrupt digestion, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. Legumes like peas, lentils, and beans, although high in protein, contain antinutrients that inhibit nutrient absorption and can cause digestive discomfort, gas, and bloating.
10. Magnesium: For Nervous System Health
Why it’s needed:Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining a dog’s overall health, particularly in the functioning of the nervous system, muscle function, and the regulation of blood pressure. It aids in protein synthesis, supports nerve transmission, and helps regulate blood glucose levels, making it vital for healthy cellular function. Magnesium also supports the synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of cells, and contributes to the relaxation of muscles and prevention of cramps or spasms.
Deficiency in magnesium can lead to a range of issues, including muscle weakness, irritability, irregular heart rhythms, seizures, and difficulty maintaining stable blood glucose levels. In raw-fed dogs, magnesium levels may be insufficient, particularly if they are not consuming enough magnesium-rich food sources. For dogs with higher activity levels, young puppies, or older dogs with neurological concerns, magnesium is especially important for maintaining balance in their body’s functions.
What To Add
• Leafy Green Vegetables: Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are great sources.
• Pumpkin seeds: High in magnesium and other beneficial nutrients.
• Bananas: A good fruit source that dogs can enjoy in moderation.
• Avocados: Rich in magnesium, though only the flesh should be fed, as the pit and skin are toxic to dogs.
How much/How Often
• General Guideline: For medium-sized dogs, aim for approximately 100–150 mg of magnesium per day. Adjust the amount based on the dog’s size and dietary needs.
• Caution: Magnesium supplementation should be done cautiously, as excess magnesium can cause diarrhea, lethargy, and kidney stress. Always consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure your dog’s magnesium intake is balanced.
11. Copper: For Immune Support and Collagen Formation
Why it’s needed:Copper is a trace mineral vital for the formation of red blood cells, the development of collagen, and the maintenance of a healthy immune system. It also plays a role in the metabolism of iron, the regulation of oxidative stress, and the formation of neurotransmitters. Copper helps produce elastin and collagen, essential for healthy skin, connective tissues, and joints. Inadequate copper can lead to a weakened immune system, skin problems, and poor collagen synthesis, which can manifest as joint issues, skin rashes, and poor wound healing.
A deficiency in copper can also interfere with the absorption of iron, leading to anemia, fatigue, and impaired growth, particularly in growing puppies. Copper is typically found in organ meats, but raw diets can sometimes be deficient in this essential mineral if the diet is not well balanced with adequate organ meat or copper-rich foods.
What To Add
• Offal (Liver and Kidneys): One of the richest sources of copper.
• Cooked Prawns and Green-lipped mussels: Shellfish are excellent sources of bioavailable copper.
• Wheatgrass: A green, plant-based source of copper that can be incorporated into a raw diet.
• mushrooms: Also a good source of copper, though some varieties should be avoided due to potential toxicity to dogs.
How much/How Often
• General Guideline: For medium-sized dogs, around 1.5–2.5 mg of copper per day is recommended. Smaller dogs may require less, while larger breeds may need more.
• Caution: Too much copper can be toxic and cause liver damage. Copper toxicity is especially concerning for dogs with certain genetic conditions like bedlington terriers, which are more prone to copper buildup. Regular testing and veterinary consultation are essential to avoid excess copper.
12. Vitamin D: For Bone and Muscle Health
Why it’s needed:Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, which is critical for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and overall metabolic functions. It enhances the absorption of calcium in the intestines, promotes bone mineralization, and regulates the immune system. Dogs that are deficient in vitamin D may experience weakened bones, muscle tremors, and in severe cases, rickets in puppies or osteomalacia in adult dogs.
Unlike humans, dogs do not synthesize vitamin D from sunlight in the same way, so it must be obtained from their diet. Raw diets, particularly those that exclude vitamin D-rich foods like liver or fish, can sometimes lead to vitamin D deficiencies. While dogs do not require massive amounts of vitamin D, ensuring they receive adequate amounts is crucial for optimal skeletal and immune health.
What To Add
• Egg Yolks: A natural source of vitamin D that is bioavailable for dogs.
• Oily Fish (Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel): Rich in vitamin D, these are some of the best sources.
• Liver (Beef, Chicken): Liver is a nutrient-dense organ meat that contains a good amount of vitamin D.
• Cod Liver Oil: Can be used as a supplement to boost vitamin D intake.
How much/How Often
• General Guideline: For medium-sized dogs, approximately 200–300 IU of vitamin D per day is recommended. Adjust the dosage based on size, age, and health status.
• Caution: Excessive vitamin D can lead to toxicity, resulting in hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), which can cause kidney damage and other severe health issues. Supplementation should be done cautiously, and veterinary advice is recommended to avoid overdosing.
Final Thoughts on Balancing an 80:10:10 Diet
While the 80:10:10 raw feeding model is a great starting point for your dog’s diet, ensuring a fully balanced approach with essential supplements like omega-3s, iodine, zinc, and manganese is critical for their long-term health. Introducing variety through organs and rotating proteins will not only cover a broader range of nutrients but also keep your dog engaged with their meals.
By supplementing thoughtfully and feeding a wide range of nutrients, you can provide your dog with a balanced and biologically appropriate diet that supports their overall well-being. Always consider consulting with a qualified canine nutritionist to ensure your dog’s individual needs are met.
Balancing a raw diet doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and the rewards—optimal health, a shiny coat, and improved vitality—make it all worthwhile. Your dog deserves the best, and with the right additions to their 80:10:10 base, you can ensure they get it!
Sources
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2004/0701/p133.html?