Explaining Raw

At Halle & Co, we believe feeding raw should feel simple and approachable. There isn’t one single “perfect” way to feed every dog — age, breed, activity level and individual tolerance all play a part.

This guide explains the main types of raw food so you can choose what works best for your dog and your lifestyle.

What Is Raw Feeding?

Raw feeding focuses on offering dogs food closer to what they would naturally eat, using raw meat, bone and offal, sometimes alongside vegetables, oils or supplements.

Raw food is usually sold frozen and should always be stored and handled carefully.

Types of Raw Food

Complete Raw Meals

Complete meals are nutritionally balanced and designed to be fed on their own.

They typically include muscle meat, bone and offal, sometimes with added vegetables or oils.

Why choose complete raw?

  • No need to calculate nutrition yourself
  • Suitable for most dogs when age-appropriate
  • A simple starting point for new raw feeders

80–10–10 Raw

An 80–10–10 meal refers to:

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

This style mirrors a prey-based approach but is not complete on its own. It’s best fed as part of a varied diet or alongside balanced meals.

Often chosen by:

  • Experienced raw feeders
  • Dogs with specific dietary needs
  • Owners confident rotating proteins and maintaining balance over time

Single-Protein Raw

Single-protein meals use one animal source, such as turkey, duck or lamb.

They can be helpful for dogs with sensitivities or during elimination diets, as they make it easier to identify ingredients that suit your dog.

Always check whether a product is complete or 80–10–10.

Complete vs Complementary Raw

Complete foods provide all the nutrients your dog needs when fed as directed.

Complementary foods — including many 80–10–10 meals, bones and treats — are designed to be fed alongside other foods to add variety and enrichment.

Final Thoughts

Every dog is different. Transition slowly when changing diets, monitor how your dog responds, and seek professional advice if your dog has medical conditions.

If you ever need help choosing, we’re always happy to guide you.

This guide is for general information only and does not replace veterinary or professional nutritional advice.