Raw feeding has become an increasingly popular approach to dog nutrition, with many pet owners seeking to mimic the natural, ancestral diet of wild canines.
Among the most discussed feeding models are the 80:10:10 and the 80:20 ratios, both of which focus on providing a nutritionally balanced, species-appropriate raw food diet for your dog.
However, one of the biggest debates in raw feeding circles is whether dogs actually need fruits and vegetables - or whether they're, quite frankly, an unnecessary addition to a diet that should be primarily meat-based.
Here we'll break down these raw feeding ratios, explore the benefits and drawbacks of plant-based ingredients in dog food, and, hopefully, help you determine the best approach for your four-legged friend.
Understanding Raw Feeding Ratios - 80:10:10 vs. 80:20
The 80:10:10 Raw Dog Food Diet
The 80:10:10 ratio is one of the most well-known approaches to raw feeding for dogs. In simple terms, it's made up of:
• 80% muscle meat - The primary source of protein and amino acids essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and overall energy levels.
• 10% edible bone - Provides essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which support bone health and strong teeth.
• 10% organ meat (offal) - A powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and essential fatty acids.
This raw feeding ratio is based on the idea that dogs are facultative carnivores, meaning they thrive on a meat-based diet but can also digest plant-based ingredients when necessary.
People who advocate for 80:10:10 raw feeding ratio believe it mirrors a wild dog's diet, keeping it free from unnecessary fillers, grains, and carbohydrates.
The 80:20 Raw Diet for Dogs
The 80:20 raw feeding ratio is similar but includes 20% plant-based ingredients, like vegetables, fruits, herbs, and other botanicals. This ratio maintains a high animal protein content while introducing additional nutrients from plant sources.
Common plant-based additions in an 80:20 raw diet include:
• Leafy greens (kale, spinach, nettle, alfalfa) - High in antioxidants, vitamins, and trace minerals.
• Root vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, beets) - Provide fibre, beta-carotene, and slow-release energy.
• Herbs and botanicals (turmeric, kelp, celery seed, flaxseed oil) - Natural anti-inflammatories that support digestion and joint health.
• Fruits (blueberries, apples, cranberries) - Rich in vitamins C and A, along with antioxidants that protect against cellular damage.
This raw dog food diet is typically picked by owners who believe dogs benefit from a small but intentional amount of plant-based nutrition, particularly for gut health, immune support, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Do Dogs Need Fruits and Vegetables?
One of the most common arguments against feeding fruits and vegetables to dogs is that they're not essential to survival.
Unlike omnivores, your dog lacks the digestive enzymes to break down cellulose efficiently, which means they don't rely on plant matter for energy or protein.
That said, this does not mean plants are useless in your dog's diet.
Potential Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables in Raw Dog Food
1. Vitamins and Minerals
Many vegetables and fruits provide bioavailable vitamins and minerals that may support immune function, skin health, and cognitive function in your dog.
For instance, carrots are high in beta-carotene and vitamin C, which can act as antioxidants to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
2. Fibre for Digestive Health
Although your dog doesn't require large amounts of fibre, small amounts can promote digestive health by supporting beneficial gut bacteria.
A well-known example is beet pulp, a source of moderately fermentable fibre that is converted into butyrate, an essential compound that fuels intestinal cells and enhances nutrient absorption.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Detoxifying Properties
Certain herbs and botanicals, like turmeric, kelp, and celery seed, contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and support overall wellness in your dog.
These ingredients are particularly beneficial for senior dogs or those with joint issues, allergies, or inflammatory conditions.
Which Raw Dog Food Ratio is Best for Your Dog?
Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to raw feeding for your dog.
The best approach depends on your dog's unique dietary needs, health conditions, and personal preferences.
The 80:10:10 raw dog food diet is ideal for owners who want to stick to a purely carnivorous diet that mirrors a wild prey model.
Whereas the 80:20 raw dog food diet may be beneficial for dogs who need extra digestive support, anti-inflammatory nutrients, or additional vitamins and minerals from plant-based sources.
Both approaches can be nutritionally complete when done correctly. The key is to monitor your dog's health, energy levels, and digestion, adjusting their diet as needed to ensure optimal well-being.
In Conclusion
Raw feeding is a highly personal choice, and whether or not to include fruits, vegetables, and botanicals depends on your dog's needs and your own feeding philosophy.
While a strictly raw dog food diet is perfectly sufficient for survival, certain plant-based ingredients may provide additional health benefits, from improved digestion to reduced inflammation.
Ultimately, the best way to determine what works best for your dog is through careful observation, trial and error, and guaranteeing a good nutritional balance is achieved.
Do you feed your dog an 80:10:10 or 80:20 raw dog food diet? Have you noticed any benefits from including fruits and vegetables? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat a raw diet without any fruits or vegetables?
Yes, dogs can thrive on a meat-only raw diet based on the 80:10:10 ratio, as it provides all essential nutrients from animal-based sources. However, some owners choose to incorporate plant-based ingredients for additional health benefits, such as improved digestion, immune support, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What are the benefits of adding vegetables and herbs to a raw dog food diet?
While not essential, fruits, vegetables, and botanicals can offer fibre for gut health, antioxidants for immune support, and anti-inflammatory compounds to aid joint and overall wellness. Ingredients like turmeric, flaxseed oil, and psyllium husk can contribute to long-term health and well-being.
How do I choose between an 80:10:10 and an 80:20 raw feeding ratio for my dog?
Choosing the right raw feeding model depends on your dog’s individual needs. If your dog thrives on a species-appropriate, meat-only diet, the 80:10:10 model may be best. If they require extra digestive support, vitamins, or antioxidants, the 80:20 model with added plant ingredients could be beneficial.
