What is BARF?

Feeding pet dogs and cats a raw diet is becoming more and more popular, with many owners reporting substantial improvements in their pets' health following the transition from processed commercial pet foods. By far the most common raw diet is the BARF diet, which stands for "Biologically Appropriate Raw Food" or "Bones and Raw Food.” This approach is about feeding dogs and cats the diet they evolved to eat over thousands of years of genetic adaptation, and which therefore provides their bodies with all they need for optimal health and longevity. 

Dogs and cats are carnivores, meaning that their energy and nutrient needs are met by consuming animal protein, organs, and bones. Their anatomy and physiology tells us as much: dogs and cats have bodies built for speed and endurance; sharp teeth adapted for tearing flesh and crunching bone; a short and simple intestinal tract more suited to digesting meat than plants… There is, however, a difference in the extent to which the term “carnivore” applies to dogs and cats respectively. Dogs are so-called facultative carnivores, which means that they thrive on a meat-based diet but can digest some plant materials in moderation. Cats, on the other hand, are obligate carnivores, entirely dependent on animal protein for essential nutrients and ill-equipped to process plant matter effectively. 

The BARF approach takes into account the carnivorous nature of dogs and cats to feed them a diet that best mimics the one their ancestors ate in the wild. For dogs, this includes the following raw foods in the following proportions: 

• Muscle Meat (70-80%)
• Bones (10-15%)
• Liver (5%)
• Other Organs (5%)
• Vegetables & Fruits (Optional, 5-10%)

For cats, the foods and proportions are as follows:

• Muscle Meat (84%)
• Bones (6%)
• Liver (5%)
• Other Organs (5%)

The benefits of the BARF diet often become apparent soon after transitioning your pet. Many owners report seeing a shinier, healthier coat, increased energy levels, improved digestion, and even weight management. These improvements stem from the diet's focus on whole, unprocessed foods. Raw meat provides easily digestible protein, essential amino acids, and natural enzymes that are often lost in the processing of commercial pet foods. Raw bones offer calcium and phosphorus in their natural forms, contributing to strong bones and teeth, while also acting as a natural toothbrush. Organ meats, like liver and kidneys, are packed with vital nutrients, including vitamins A, B, and D, as well as iron and taurine, an essential amino acid for cats. Because these are foods that dogs’ and cats’ bodies have evolved to metabolize, the BARF diet also helps prevent degenerative diseases and deal with food allergies and sensitivities.

Feeding your pet the BARF diet is very simple once you understand what makes up a balanced raw meal. If you prefer convenience, you can opt for pre-prepared raw food mixes that already contain all the essential nutrients in the correct ratios. Our store offers a variety of ready-made balanced raw meals for dogs and cats, including portioned options for easy feeding. Or, if you prefer to make the meals yourself, we have a wide selection of raw ingredients and complementary products you can use to tailor your meals to your dog or cat's specific needs. 

Check out our guides on how to properly transition your pet to a raw diet and how to create your own balanced raw meals.