What is the BARF Diet?

BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones And Raw Food. It’s based on the idea that dogs should eat as close as possible to what their ancestors ate in the wild, raw meat, bones, organs, and a small portion of vegetables and fruits.

Pros:
– Mimics the natural canine diet;
– Encourages cleaner teeth and healthier gums;
– Often improves coat condition and muscle tone;
– Can reduce allergies and sensitivities in some dogs;
– The hard consistency of the stool help to naturally express the anal glands during defecation;
– Balanced energy release throughout the day according to amount of exercise.

Cons:
– Requires careful balancing to meet nutritional needs;
– Needs freezer space and preparation time;
– Risk of contamination if not handled properly;
– Not suitable for all dogs (e.g. immunocompromised or certain breeds with sensitive guts).

What About Commercial Pet Food?

Commercial dry or wet food is regulated, tested, and convenient. There’s a wide variety of options on the market, from low-cost supermarket kibble to premium grain-free, high-meat-content brands.

Pros:
– Nutritionally balanced (especially vet-formulated brands);
– Easy to store, serve, and travel with;
– Affordable and widely available;
– Some premium brands use high-quality ingredients.

Cons:
– Some contain fillers, preservatives, and meat by-products;
– Quality varies greatly between brands;
– May not suit dogs with allergies or sensitivities;
– Some owners feel disconnected from what their dogs are really eating
– In contrast to a raw diet, the energy from a kibble-based diet is released much more rapidly, as processed foods are digested faster and lack the natural structure that slows down energy absorption. My Take: Balance, Knowledge, and Observation

Over the years, I’ve worked with dogs on all kinds of diets, from raw to kibble to home-cooked meals.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
Your dog’s diet should reflect their individual needs, your lifestyle, and your commitment to learning.
For owners who are passionate, well-informed, and organised, a raw or partially raw diet can work beautifully. For others, a premium, balanced commercial diet may be the most practical and responsible choice.
Above all, watch your dog:
– Are they energetic, focused, and happy?
– Do they have a shiny coat, good stool consistency, and clear eyes?
– Do they enjoy mealtime?
– Do they often experience issues like vomiting, diarrhoea?

That’s the best indicator of whether you’re on the right track.

The most common concern surrounding the BARF diet is the potential risk of cross-contamination from pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella. However, it’s important to remember that a dog’s digestive system is specifically adapted to handle raw meat. Their highly acidic stomach environment and shorter intestinal tract make them far less susceptible to these bacteria than humans.
The greater risk lies with people, not dogs, particularly when raw food is mishandled or hygiene standards are overlooked during preparation. With proper handling and storage practices, these risks can be minimised while allowing dogs to benefit fully from a natural, biologically appropriate diet.
I personally have been feeding my own dogs a raw diet because I’ve seen its remarkable benefits, better overall health, greater longevity, and far fewer vet visits. Over the years, I’ve also recommended the raw diet to many of my clients and fellow dog lovers, and the consistently positive feedback has reinforced my belief that I made the right choice.

Want to Learn More About Canine Nutrition and Behaviour?

In my recently published book on dog behaviour and holistic training, I dedicate a section to nutrition and its connection to your dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Whether you’re raising a puppy or supporting a senior dog, understanding what’s in the bowl is a critical piece of the puzzle.