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Mastering the Essentials: Know the basics

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.

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All content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. We do not diagnose, treat, or prescribe for medical conditions — always consult your vet for health concerns

2024 by RFFDMSUK ® a part of Raw Feeding For Dogs Made Simple (UK) LTD Registered company: 16317001

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