What Is 80:10:10 Raw Dog Food – And Why Is It So Good For Your Dog?

Raw Dog Food - Turkey and Goose

If you’ve been looking into raw feeding, you’ll often see the term 80:10:10. It might look a bit technical at first, but it’s actually a simple formula that mirrors the natural diet of a canine in the wild. When it’s done properly, it gives your dog a complete, balanced, species-appropriate meal without fillers or unnecessary additives.

Here’s a straightforward explanation of what it means and why so many owners choose it.

What Does 80:10:10 Mean?

80:10:10 is the classic ratio used in biologically appropriate raw feeding:

  •  80% meat (muscle meat)
  • 10% bone
  • 10% offal (with half of this being liver)

These three components closely match the natural prey diet of a carnivore. Instead of relying on grains, fillers or artificial additives, it focuses on nutrient-dense, highly digestible ingredients.

Why 80% Meat?

Muscle meat gives your dog:

  • High-quality protein for muscle maintenance and energy
  • Natural fats for skin, coat and joint support
  • Essential amino acids that can’t be obtained from plant proteins
  • Vitamins such as B12 and B3

Dogs thrive on animal protein and break it down far more efficiently than carbohydrates. That’s one of the reasons raw-fed dogs often have shinier coats, calmer digestion and better overall body condition.

Why 10% Bone?

Raw bone is an important natural source of:

  • Calcium
  • Phosphorus
  • Collagen
  • Glucosamine
  • Trace minerals

When it’s finely ground (as with Betsy’s meals), it’s completely safe and provides excellent support for teeth, bones and joints. It also helps keep stools firm and healthy.

Why 10% Offal?

Offal is incredibly nutrient-rich. It’s sometimes called “nature’s multivitamin” because it contains:

  • Vitamin A and D
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • Folate
  • Omega-3 fatty acids

Liver, kidney and similar organs provide nutrients in concentrations you won’t find in muscle meat alone. This is what makes the meal truly “complete”.

Key Benefits of Feeding an 80:10:10 Diet

More natural and biologically appropriate

It’s built around what dogs are designed to eat. The ingredients are easily absorbed and minimise digestive stress.

Great for skin and coat

Owners often notice softer fur, reduced shedding and fewer skin issues thanks to the natural oils and fats in raw meat.

Better digestion

Without grains or fillers, many dogs have smaller, firmer, less smelly stools. Sensitive dogs often do particularly well on this.

Cleaner teeth

Raw meaty bones help reduce plaque and tartar naturally.

More energy and improved body condition

Because the food is highly digestible, dogs often maintain a healthy weight more easily while staying energised and alert.

No hidden additives

Betsy’s 80:10:10 meals contain nothing artificial – no preservatives, colourings or bulking agents.

Is 80:10:10 Right for Every Dog?

Most dogs, from puppies to seniors, can thrive on an 80:10:10 diet. The only exceptions tend to be dogs with very specific medical conditions, and even then raw can often be adapted to suit them.

If your dog has allergies, digestive issues or sensitivities, many owners find that a simple, limited-ingredient raw recipe works far better than processed kibble.

The 80:10:10 formula is popular because it works. It’s simple, balanced, and gives your dog everything they need from natural, real ingredients. Betsy’s Raw Dog Food provides high-quality 80:10:10 meals prepared to strict standards, so you can feed raw with confidence.