What is the 80/20 rule for dog food?

Understanding the 80/20 Rule for Raw Dog Food

The 80/20 rule for dog food is a popular guideline used in raw feeding, especially under the B.A.R.F. (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) model, which focuses on mimicking the natural prey diet of wild canines. This model encourages feeding your dog a diet that consists of mostly raw, whole ingredients that closely resemble what dogs would consume in the wild.

What Does the 80/20 Rule Entail?

The 80/20 rule typically breaks down into the following structure:

• 80% muscle meat
• 10% raw edible bone
• 10% organ meat (with half of that from liver and the other half from other secreting organs such as kidney or spleen)

These percentages are not fixed and may slightly vary depending on the dog's breed, age, activity level, and health condition. However, it's considered a solid foundation for creating a balanced raw diet.

The Components of the 80/20 Raw Diet Explained

1. Muscle Meat (80%)
Muscle meat includes lean cuts from beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, or pork. This component is the main protein source and should also include some fat for energy, but not too much. Meaty pieces like thighs and shoulders are ideal. 2. Raw Edible Bone (10%)
Edible bones are soft, non-weight-bearing bones such as chicken necks, wings, and backs. These provide essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus and help keep teeth clean. Avoid cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause internal injuries. 3. Organ Meat (10%)
Organ meat is crucial for supplying vitamins and minerals. You should aim for:

• 5% Liver: Rich in vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron.
• 5% Other Organs: Such as kidney, spleen, or pancreas, each offering a different nutrient profile.

Why Use the 80/20 Rule?

The goal is to replicate the natural nutritional intake that dogs would have if consuming whole prey animals. Wild canines typically eat muscle, bones, and organs from their prey, providing them with a complete and balanced diet. The 80/20 rule simplifies this concept for dog owners.

Benefits of Following the 80/20 Rule

• Better coat and skin health due to natural fats and oils.
• Improved dental hygiene from chewing raw bones.
• Boosted energy levels and vitality.
• Stronger immune system through more bioavailable nutrients.
• Smaller, firmer stools due to lower filler content.

Adjustments to the Rule

Some pet nutritionists and veterinarians recommend adding small amounts of plant matter like pureed vegetables or fruits to provide fiber and additional nutrients, especially if your dog tolerates it well. In such cases, you might adapt the ratio to something like 80/10/10 + optional 5% vegetables.

Feeding Guidelines by Weight

As a general rule:

• Adult dogs: Feed 2–3% of their ideal body weight daily, based on their activity level.
• Puppies: Require more food, often 4–6% of their current weight, due to rapid growth.

For example, an 80 lb adult dog eating 2.5% of their body weight would need 2 lbs of food per day, broken down as:

• 1.6 lbs of muscle meat
• 0.2 lbs of edible bone
• 0.2 lbs of organ meat

Transitioning to a Raw Diet

Start slowly by mixing a small portion (25%) of raw food with your dog’s current diet, gradually increasing the raw percentage over 10–12 days. Monitor your dog’s weight, stool quality, and energy levels during this time.

Safety Precautions

• Never feed cooked bones — they can splinter and cause serious harm.
• Practice good hygiene — clean surfaces and wash hands after handling raw food.
• Buy meats from reputable sources to reduce the risk of contamination.
• Consult with a vet or canine nutritionist, especially when feeding puppies, seniors, or dogs with health issues.

Conclusion

The 80/20 rule is a practical and effective way to guide raw feeding for your dog. It ensures a balanced intake of muscle meat, bone, and organ nutrition, promoting optimal health when paired with proper portioning and careful observation. Always tailor the diet based on your dog’s unique needs and response, and don’t hesitate to seek expert advice as you go through this nutritional journey with your furry friend.