Mastering the Essentials: Know the basics
- RFFDMSUK

- Dec 16, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Raw Feeding Essentials: What Each Component Contributes
Raw feeding works best when each part of the diet plays a clear nutritional role. Understanding why each element matters helps you build meals that are varied, nutrient‑dense, and aligned with how dogs are designed to eat—without implying any medical purpose.
🥩 Meat, Bone & Offal (80/10/10 Base)
Using an 80/10/10 mince as your foundation provides the three core building blocks of a raw diet:
Muscle meat — Supplies amino acids, energy, and essential nutrients that support everyday bodily functions.
Edible bone — Provides natural calcium and phosphorus in the ratios dogs are adapted to consume.
Offal/organs — Adds nutrient density, including vitamins and minerals that are naturally concentrated in organs.
This combination creates a broad nutritional base before you add any extras.
🥚 Raw Eggs
Eggs contribute:
High‑quality protein
A range of vitamins and minerals
Natural fats that add variety to the diet
They’re one of the most nutrient‑dense whole foods you can include. Check out our Raw eggs blog.
🐟 Raw Oily Fish
Oily fish supports:
Omega‑3 fatty acid intake
Dietary variety across different protein types
A balance of fats that complements land‑based meats
Feeding small amounts weekly is usually enough to diversify nutrient profiles. Check out our Raw oily fish blog
🥦 Fruits & Vegetables (Up to 10%)
Plant matter isn’t essential for all dogs, but it can contribute:
Fibre for digestive comfort
Phytonutrients found in leafy greens and low‑sugar fruits
Additional hydration and variety
Keep root vegetables to no more than 4% due to their higher starch content. Check out our blog on fruits & vegetables
If you prefer not to feed plants, a everyday supplement can help support overall nutrient variety.
🍲 Bone Broth
Bone broth—homemade or designed for dogs—adds:
Hydration
Natural gelatine and amino acids
A gentle way to increase meal interest
It’s a simple, low‑cost addition that complements raw feeding well. Check out our bone broth blog for more information
Optional Extras and Why They’re Useful
🥛 Kefir
Kefir introduces fermented foods into the diet, contributing to dietary diversity and offering naturally occurring beneficial bacteria. Check out our Kefir blog
🦴 Raw Meaty Bones
Appropriate raw meaty bones can:
Add chewing enrichment
Support natural jaw use
Provide additional bone content when needed
Always choose bones suitable for your dog’s size and chewing style. Check out our Raw meaty bones blog
🧩 Enrichment Activities
Lick mats, puzzle feeders, and stuffed items make mealtimes more engaging and mentally stimulating. Be sure to check out our blog Enrichment for Dogs: Nurturing Your Dog's Well-Being
🦵 Joint Support
General joint supplements can be used to complement a balanced diet, especially for dogs with active lifestyles or larger breeds. These are for general wellbeing, not for treating any condition. Read our blog Joint support
🦴 Natural Treats
Natural treats add variety, texture, and training opportunities while fitting neatly into a raw‑feeding approach. Read more about Tasty Treats & Dehydrating
Want to Check Anything Else?
Our FAQ covers common questions about portions, plant matter, supplements, and safe handling if you want to explore any area in more depth.




