Feeding your dog a raw diet, often called BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or RMBD (Raw Meaty Bones Diet), has gained popularity among dog owners seeking a natural and nutritious way to care for their pets. This guide explores the advantages and disadvantages of raw diets, provides a list of raw foods suitable for dogs, instructions for preparing certain foods, and a sample feeding schedule for puppies and adult dogs.

 

 

Improved Coat and Skin Health: Many dogs on raw diets develop shinier coats and healthier skin due to the natural oils and nutrients.

 

Better Dental Health: Chewing raw bones can help reduce tartar and promote healthy gums.

 

Increased Energy Levels: Dogs on raw diets often have more vitality and stamina.

 

Better Digestion: Raw diets are free of fillers and artificial additives, which can improve gut health and reduce stool volume.

 

Weight Management: It’s easier to maintain an ideal weight by controlling portion sizes and focusing on nutrient-dense foods.

 

 

Bacterial Contamination: Improper handling or preparation of raw meat can lead to contamination, putting both dogs and owners at risk.

 

Nutritional Imbalances: A poorly planned raw diet can result in deficiencies or excesses of certain nutrients.

 

Cost and Time: Sourcing, preparing, and storing raw ingredients can be expensive and time-consuming.

 

Choking Hazards: If not properly supervised, dogs might choke on bones or ingest large fragments.

 

Veterinary Concerns: Some vets discourage raw diets, especially for dogs with certain health conditions.

 

 

A raw diet should be balanced, consisting of the following components:

 

 

Meat: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, venison, duck.

 

Fish: Sardines, mackerel, salmon (cooked or frozen to kill parasites).

 

Organs: Liver, kidney, heart (rich in essential nutrients but should be limited to 10% of the diet).

 

Eggs: Whole eggs (raw or cooked; include the shell for calcium if tolerated).

 

 

Chicken wings, turkey necks, beef ribs (ensure bones are raw and not cooked to avoid splintering).

 

 

Vegetables: Carrots, spinach, kale, zucchini, broccoli (lightly steamed for better digestibility).

 

Fruits: Blueberries, apples (without seeds), bananas.

 

 

Fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids.

 

Ground eggshell or bone meal for calcium.

 

Probiotics to support digestion.

 

Foods to Prepare Before Feeding

 

Some foods require cooking to eliminate harmful substances:

 

Fish: Freeze for at least three days or cook to kill parasites.

 

Pork: Cook thoroughly to avoid trichinosis.

 

Eggs: Lightly cook if concerned about avidin, which can inhibit biotin absorption.

 

Vegetables: Lightly steam or puree for easier digestion.

 

Feeding Schedule for Raw Diets

 

Puppies (4 weeks - 12 months)

 

Frequency: 3-4 meals per day until 6 months; reduce to 2 meals after 6 months.

Portion Size: Feed 2-3% of their estimated adult weight daily, split into meals.

 

 

Morning: Ground chicken with finely chopped carrots.

 

Midday: Raw meaty bone (chicken neck) and small portion of liver.

 

Evening: Beef chunks with a sprinkle of bone meal and a few blueberries.

 

Adult Dogs (1 year and older)

 

Frequency: 1-2 meals per day.

Portion Size: Feed 2-3% of their current body weight daily.

 

 

Morning: Sardines with a raw egg and a handful of spinach (steamed).

 

Evening: Turkey chunks, a small piece of raw bone, and a fish oil supplement.

 

 

Transition Slowly: Gradually introduce raw food over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.

 

Hygiene: Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.

 

Consult Your Vet: Before starting a raw diet, especially if your dog has underlying health conditions.

 

With proper planning and care, a raw diet can provide your dog with the nutrients needed for a happy and healthy life.