For years, raw feeders have followed the classic ratio: 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meat (usually split evenly between liver and another secreting organ). But new research and insights from leading canine nutrition experts—like Dr. Karen Becker, Dr. Connor Brady, and Dr. Ian Billinghurst—are challenging that rule of thumb. It turns out organ meats may deserve a bigger spot in your dog’s bowl!
Why the Shift?
Originally, organ meats were limited to 10–15% because they’re so nutrient-dense, and we wanted to avoid overwhelming the body—especially with vitamin A from liver. But now we’re seeing that many dogs benefit from 15–25% organ inclusion, especially when the organs are well-balanced and rotated.
These experts are encouraging raw feeders to take a closer look at what wild dogs and wolves actually eat. In nature, organs aren’t just nibble-worthy—they’re the first choice. They deliver a nutritional punch that no kibble or muscle meat can match. And when dogs are struggling with low energy, poor coats, or immune challenges, more organ variety might just be the secret ingredient they need.
What the Experts Say
Leading voices in natural canine nutrition are helping us rethink the role of organ meats in a raw diet.
- Dr. Conor Brady emphasizes that dogs in the wild consume a much higher percentage of organ matter than we typically feed, particularly after large prey kills where organs are consumed first. He advocates for variety and rotating organs to replicate this natural pattern.
- Dr. Ian Billinghurst, one of the pioneers of the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) model, believes that a diet rich in nutrient-dense organs supports cellular repair, longevity, and immune resilience—especially in aging dogs or those with chronic conditions.
- Dr. Karen Becker encourages feeding a wide range of organs beyond just liver and kidney, pointing out that each organ supports the same function in the dog’s body as it did in the prey animal. This “like supports like” approach is central to her philosophy of feeding for optimal wellness. For example, Golden Retrievers and other breeds susceptible to heart issues, like DCM,could benefit from eating heart due to the taurine content, a key amino acid for heart health.
Why Organs Matter So Much
Organ meats are like nature’s multivitamins—only better. They’re packed with highly absorbable nutrients that play a key role in nearly every function of your dog’s body. From boosting immunity and supporting the heart and kidneys, to fueling the brain and helping the body detoxify—organs are foundational to long-term health.
Many dogs struggling with skin, energy, or digestion issues show rapid improvement when organ variety is increased in their raw diet. Because organ meats support internal systems (like the liver, kidneys, and gut), they help balance the body from the inside out.
What Are Secreting Organs (and Why Are They Important)?
Secreting organs are organs that produce and release substances like enzymes, hormones, or bile—things essential for body function. This includes liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas, brain, thymus, and others. These are not the same as muscular organs like heart and lung, which are nutrient-rich but don’t secrete.
Secreting organs are crucial because they offer nutrients that aren’t available in significant amounts anywhere else. These include fat-soluble vitamins, trace minerals, enzymes, and compounds that support everything from blood building to neurological health. They are also more bioavailable than synthetic vitamins, making them a powerful way to keep dogs vibrant and thriving.
What Makes Organ Meats So Special?
Each organ brings something unique to the table. Here's a quick guide to the most valuable organ meats and what they contribute to your dog’s health:
| Organ | Nutrients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Liver | Vitamin A, B12, folate, iron, copper | Supports vision, detox, and red blood cell production |
| Kidney | Selenium, zinc, vitamin D, B6 | Helps hormone balance, antioxidant support, and detox |
| Heart | Taurine, CoQ10, B vitamins | Fuels the heart, supports energy and muscle function |
| Spleen | Iron, vitamin C, B12 | A blood-boosting powerhouse for immunity and vitality |
| Pancreas | Enzymes, vitamin B5 | Aids digestion and helps dogs with enzyme deficiencies |
| Brain | DHA, phospholipids, vitamin B12 | Supports neurological health and mental sharpness |
| Lung | Protein, iron, vitamin C | Nutrient-dense and great for rotating variety |
| Thymus & Sweetbreads | Immune-supportive peptides | Boosts the immune system in subtle, powerful ways |
| Green Tripe (bonus) | Enzymes, probiotics, amino acids | Balances gut flora, improves appetite, supports digestion |
Note: While green tripe isn’t technically a secreting organ, it’s often considered an honorary organ in raw diets due to its gut-health benefits and impressive nutritional profile.
Signs Your Dog May Need More Organs
How do you know if your dog might benefit from more organ meat in their diet? Here are a few signs to watch for:
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A dull, dry, or shedding coat
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Low energy or slower recovery after play or exercise
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Chronic digestive issues or food sensitivities
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Weak muscle tone or poor stamina
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Frequent infections or signs of immune imbalance
In these cases, increasing the organ variety—and not just the quantity—can often make a noticeable difference.
Feeding Organ Meats Safely
More isn’t always better—balance is the key. Avoid overdoing it with liver (too much vitamin A can be harmful), and instead, focus on rotating organs and including a wider variety. Introduce new organs gradually to avoid digestive upset, and always source high-quality, clean organ meats.
Your dog’s body will thank you with vibrant health, better digestion, and a shinier coat!
Final Woof:
Organ meats aren’t just a small part of your dog’s raw diet—they’re a vital piece of the puzzle. With guidance from the latest research and a little observation of your own dog, you might find that increasing organs is just what they need to thrive.
Want help finding and rotating organ meats or green tripe? We’d love to chat and help you build the perfect bowl for your pup.