What is BARF
BARF — Biologically Appropriate Raw Food — is a feeding system based on raw meat, bones, offal and vegetables. Developed by Australian veterinarian Dr. Ian Billinghurst in the 1990s. The idea is simple: dogs are predators, and their digestion is designed for raw food, not processed kibble.
Why owners choose BARF
Who is BARF for
BARF is suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Puppies — from 3–4 months (soft chicken bones, easily digestible protein). Adult dogs — the main audience, any activity level. Senior dogs — easily digestible protein, joint support through collagen. Pregnant & nursing — increased portions (+20–50% of the norm). Dogs with allergies — protein rotation helps identify and eliminate allergens.
Diet composition
Rotate proteins weekly: beef, fish, poultry.
How to transition to BARF
The transition takes 7–10 days. Gradually increase the share of raw food while decreasing the regular food.
If your dog is picky after kibble with flavor enhancers — that's normal. Start with a small addition and allow 1–2 weeks to adjust.
How to feed
Adults: 2–3% of body weight per day (more active dogs closer to 3%). Puppies: 5–10% depending on age. Frequency: adults — twice a day, puppies — 3–4 times. Pregnant & nursing: +20–50% of the norm.
Rotate proteins weekly: beef, fish, poultry. Organ mixes — 1–3 times per week as part of the diet, not as the base.
Calculate portion →Storage & thawing
In the freezer — up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge; before feeding, let sit 15–30 min at room temperature. Opened pack — up to 3 days in the fridge. Dried treats — at room temperature in sealed packaging.
Do not microwave. Do not refreeze fully thawed food.
Frequently asked questions about BARF
Do I need to cook BARF?
No. The diet is fully ready after thawing. Take the pack out the evening before, place in the fridge, and before feeding let it sit 15–30 minutes at room temperature. Do not microwave.
Can I refreeze?
A fully thawed pack — no. If the food has only started to thaw and is still firm — you can return it to the freezer. An opened pack keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days.
My dog refuses to eat or eats poorly?
This is normal after kibble with flavor enhancers. Start small: mix a little raw into the regular food and gradually increase the share over 7–10 days. Most dogs adjust within 1–2 weeks.
Can I mix BARF with dry food?
A small meat addition (~10% of the diet) to quality dry food is usually safe. For a larger share, separate raw and dry into different meals. If in doubt — consult your vet.
Is raw meat safe for dogs?
A dog's digestion is adapted to raw meat: short intestinal tract and high stomach acidity. We use fresh meat from trusted suppliers and freeze on the day of production. Follow basic hygiene: wash hands and bowls after feeding.
Should I consult a vet?
We recommend consulting a vet, especially when transitioning from dry food, if your dog has chronic conditions or special needs. We can also help plan a diet — contact us.
Is BARF suitable for cats?
Yes, cats are obligate carnivores and raw feeding suits them even more. Currently we offer portions and diets for dogs. If you're interested in cat diets — contact us, we'll discuss options.
How do I calculate portions?
An adult dog needs 2–3% of body weight per day, puppies — up to 7%. Use our calculator — it shows grams, packs per day, and monthly supply.
Is BARF more expensive than dry food?
Depends on the class of dry food. Quality holistic kibble costs about the same or even more than BARF, while cheap foods are mostly grains and byproducts. BARF is 80% real meat — incomparable in quality.
Can I give raw bones?
Raw soft bones (chicken necks, wings) — yes, they're a source of calcium and phosphorus. Cooked bones — never: cooking makes them brittle and they can damage the GI tract.