What Is the BARF Diet?
BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (or sometimes Bones and Raw Food). The idea is simple: instead of feeding processed kibble, you give your dog a diet of fresh, raw ingredients that mimic their ancestral menu.
In practice, BARF meals usually contain:
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Muscle meat – the base protein source
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Organs – nutrient-rich “superfoods”
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Edible bone – for calcium and dental health
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Vegetables, fruit, and extras – to round things out
Why Some Owners Choose Raw
Fans of BARF often say they see shinier coats, healthier stools, better energy, and clean teeth. Others simply prefer a diet with fewer fillers and preservatives.
Of course, it’s not one-size-fits-all – every dog is different, and not all vets agree on raw feeding.
Key Components of BARF
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Muscle meat: Chicken, beef, kangaroo, venison, etc.
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Organ meat: Liver, kidney, heart, spleen – packed with nutrients.
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Bones: Raw meaty bones like wings, necks, or tails.
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Veggies & extras: Some owners add carrots, leafy greens, berries, or oils.
Risks and How to Avoid Them
Like any feeding style, BARF has risks:
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Bacterial contamination – avoid by freezing and handling carefully.
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Unbalanced meals – not enough bone or too much liver can cause issues. Ensuring a rotation of proteins, veggies and extras is best practice for balance.
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Choking hazards – supervise with bones and choose appropriate sizes.
Many owners work with a raw-friendly vet or use pre-prepared raw mixes to keep things balanced.
Where Treats Fit in a Raw Feeding Plan
Treats don’t need to break the “raw rules.” Natural, single-ingredient treats like kangaroo jerky, beef liver, or even fur-on chews complement BARF beautifully.
👉 Tip: Treats should stay under 10% of your dog’s diet to keep things balanced.
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