Raw Feeding for Dogs: A Beginner's Guide
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