The BARF diet, which stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones And Raw Food, is a type of diet for dogs that consists of raw meats, bones, fruits, and vegetables, designed to mimic what canines ate before domestication. Proponents argue it leads to better health, while critics point out risks such as the potential for dietary imbalances and bacterial contamination.
Barf Diet Model Ratio Guidelines
The composition of a BARF diet is specific, including a variety of raw foods, detailed as follows.
- 70% muscle meat
- 10% raw edible bones
- 7% vegetables
- 5% liver
- 5% other secreting organs
- 2% seeds or nuts
- 1% fruit
- Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Benefits of BARF Diet for Dogs
Improved Dental Health
The act of chewing raw bones can help scrape away plaque, potentially reducing the risk of dental diseases and promoting stronger teeth and healthier gums.
Enhanced Digestion
Raw foods can be easier for dogs to digest than processed kibble, allowing for more efficient absorption of nutrients and resulting in smaller, less odorous stools.
Healthier Skin and Coat
A BARF diet is rich in natural fatty acids, which can contribute to a shinier coat and healthier skin, potentially reducing the occurrence of skin allergies and conditions.
Increased Energy Levels
The high protein content and natural ingredients in a BARF diet can lead to an increase in vitality and stamina, often noticeable in a dog’s more playful and active behavior.
Weight Management
This diet can help maintain a healthy weight in dogs as it is free from filler ingredients that contribute to obesity, allowing for a leaner body composition.
Allergy Reduction
By eliminating processed foods and grains, which are common allergens, a BARF diet may reduce the incidence of dietary allergies, resulting in fewer allergic reactions such as itching and gastrointestinal upset.
Improved Immune System Function
The natural variety of nutrients found in the raw ingredients of a BARF diet supports the immune system, potentially leading to better overall health and reduced incidence of diseases.
Risks of BARF Diet for Dogs
- Nutritional Imbalances: Preparing a BARF diet at home can lead to nutritional deficiencies or excesses if not carefully balanced, which can cause long-term health issues for dogs, such as bone deformities or organ dysfunction.
- Bacterial Contamination: Raw meats can harbor pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, posing a risk of bacterial infections to dogs and the humans who handle their food, potentially leading to serious illness.
- Choking Hazard: Bones, especially if they are brittle or small, can pose a choking risk or cause obstructions or perforations in the digestive tract, which may require emergency veterinary intervention.
- Dental Hazards: Although raw bones can benefit dental health, they can also cause dental fractures or wear down teeth over time, particularly in aggressive chewers or when feeding weight-bearing bones from larger animals.
- Cost and Convenience: A BARF diet can be more expensive and time-consuming than commercial dog foods. Ensuring the correct mix of nutrients and safe food handling practices requires significant effort and knowledge.
How to Start BARF Diet for Dogs?
Ease Into the Diet Transition
When switching to BARF, introduce raw food gradually. Over a period of 7–10 days, mix increasing amounts of the BARF diet into your dog’s usual food until the old food is completely replaced.
Consistency in Feeding Schedule
Maintain the regular feeding times your dog is accustomed to, whether that’s once, twice, or more times daily.
Accurate Food Proportions
Adult dogs typically require about 3% of their body weight in food per day. Refer to a BARF diet chart for precise portioning.
Whole Meat Servings
Offer larger cuts of meat to support dental health and engage your dog’s instincts. Adapt the size of the cuts to the size of the dog, with smaller cuts for smaller breeds.
Proper Preparation of Produce
Serve fruits and vegetables in a form easy for your dog to digest, such as pureed or lightly steamed, steering clear of harmful options like onions, grapes, or avocado.
Minimize Starches
Keep starchy foods like potatoes and rice to a minimum to avoid unnecessary weight gain and optimize the nutritional value of each meal.
Monitor Fat Consumption
Manage the fat in your dog’s diet to prevent digestive issues and maintain a healthy weight. Moderate servings of dairy and fish should suffice.
Ensure Adequate Calcium
Bones are a primary source of calcium in the BARF diet, but you can also add crushed eggshells or calcium-rich vegetables and meats.
Safe Storage is Key
Store raw food at safe temperatures, between 32° and 42°F, to prevent spoilage. Freeze portions and thaw them as needed for feeding.
Keep an Eye on Stool Quality
Monitor your dog’s stools to judge the appropriateness of their diet. You’re aiming for small, firm stools; softness may indicate a need for dietary adjustments.
Consistency in Diet
Stick to the BARF diet once you’ve started, as frequent changes can cause digestive and skin issues. Adjust as needed, but allow your dog’s system time to adapt.
Note: Always consult a vet experienced in canine nutrition before overhauling your dog’s diet, especially if they have existing health issues. This ensures a safe and healthy dietary transition.
How much BARF Diet Should I Feed My Dog?
Feeding amounts for a BARF diet can vary depending on the dog’s age, activity level, and overall health, but here are some general guidelines based on body weight.
- Toy Breeds (up to 10 lbs / 4.5 kg): Approximately 4-6% of their body weight daily.
- Small Breeds (10-20 lbs / 4.5-9 kg): Around 3.5-5% of their body weight daily.
- Medium Breeds (20-50 lbs / 9-22.5 kg): Typically 2.5-3.5% of their body weight daily.
- Large Breeds (50-100 lbs / 22.5-45 kg): Generally 2-3% of their body weight daily.
- Giant Breeds (over 100 lbs / 45 kg): About 1.5-2.5% of their body weight daily.
These percentages are a starting point, and you may need to adjust the quantity based on your dog’s needs. Active, working dogs, for example, may require more food, while less active or overweight dogs may require less. Puppies, particularly large breed puppies, may need more food and frequent feedings. It’s also important to consider the caloric density of the specific foods you’re using, as this can vary.
Also Read: Freeze-dried Dog Food: Pros And Cons[Serving Guide]
BARF Diet Components – How Can I Make BARF Diet for My Dog?
Protein Sources
Muscle meats (should form the bulk of the diet)
- Chicken (breasts, thighs, wings)
- Beef (ground beef, stewing beef)
- Pork (shoulder, loin)
- Fish (mackerel, sardines – occasionally due to high-fat content)
- Turkey (ground turkey, breast)
Organ meats (should be fed in moderation as they are very rich)
- Liver (beef, chicken)
- Kidneys (beef, pork)
- Heart (beef, chicken)
- Tripe (green tripe is particularly nutritious)
Raw Meaty Bones
- Chicken necks
- Chicken backs
- Lamb ribs
- Turkey necks
(Note: Bones should be given cautiously; ensure they are large enough to prevent choking and small enough to be digestible.)
Fresh Vegetables (lightly steamed to improve digestibility or pureed)
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Squash
- Pumpkin
Fruits (in moderation, and always without pits/seeds)
- Apples (no seeds)
- Pears
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries)
Fats
Dairy Products (some dogs may be lactose intolerant, so use in moderation)
- Plain yogurt
- Cottage cheese
Additional Foods
- Eggs (raw or cooked)
- Kelp (for trace minerals)
- Alfalfa or green-lipped mussel (for dogs with joint issues)
Supplements (if needed, depending on individual dog’s needs and under vet guidance)
- Vitamin E
- Zinc supplement
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Probiotics to support digestive health
Foods to Avoid
- Onions and garlic (toxic to dogs)
- Grapes and raisins (can cause kidney failure in dogs)
- Chocolate
- Avocado
- Macadamia nuts
- Anything containing the sweetener xylitol
Frequently Asked Questions
Is only BARF diet safe for dogs?
A BARF diet can be safe for dogs if properly balanced and includes all the necessary nutrients. However, it’s crucial to do thorough research and often seek guidance from a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist, as a poorly constructed raw diet can lead to nutritional imbalances.
How do I check if BARF diet is troubling my dog?
Monitor your dog for any signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Also, watch for changes in appetite, energy levels, or coat quality. If any issues arise, consult your veterinarian to determine if the diet may be the cause.
Can I give dry food along with BARF diet to my dog?
Yes, you can combine dry food with a BARF diet, often called “mixed feeding.” However, it’s important to ensure the overall diet remains balanced and does not lead to overfeeding. Some dogs might also require a transition period to adjust to mixed feeding.