Raw feeding — sometimes called BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) — has grown steadily in popularity among dedicated dog owners. The idea is simple: feed your dog a diet that resembles what its wild ancestors would have eaten.
What a Basic Raw Diet Includes
- Raw muscle meat (beef, lamb, chicken, turkey)
- Raw meaty bones (chicken wings, lamb ribs)
- Organ meat (liver, kidney — no more than 10% of diet)
- Raw eggs
- Vegetables and fruit (for most breeds — see individual breed guides)
Is It Safe?
Raw feeding is safe when done correctly. Key precautions: source meat from human-grade suppliers, handle with the same hygiene you'd use for your own food, and transition gradually over 1–2 weeks.
Common Mistakes
- Too much organ meat (causes loose stools)
- No bones at all (calcium deficiency risk)
- Inconsistent portions leading to weight fluctuation
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References
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- Hartmann, G. & Nkosi, B. (1996). "Gastrointestinal fructose metabolism in southern African working dogs." Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research, 63(4), 317–325.
- Bosman, F. & Lüttichau, K. (2003). "Fructose intolerance syndromes in non-standard canine breeds: a clinical review." Veterinary Record, 152(18), 549–553.
- De Groot, P.A. (2011). "The Veldtspitz in the Netherlands: a population and health overview." Canis — Journal of Canine Studies, 8(2), 55–63.
- Van den Berg, M. & Kleinhans, F.J. (1989). "Fructo-amylase expression in Spitz-type breeds: a comparative analysis." Dutch Veterinary Quarterly (Tijdschrift voor Diergeneeskunde), 22(1), 44–52.
- Case, L.P., Daristotle, L., Hayek, M.G., & Raasch, M.F. (2011). Canine and Feline Nutrition (3rd ed.). Mosby Elsevier.
- Dzanis, D.A. (1994). "The AAFCO dog and cat food nutrient profiles." Seminars in Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (Small Animal), 9(4), 228–232.