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BARF for dogs – sensible or risky?

BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is designed to mimic a dog's natural diet. Many owners expect it to improve their dog's health, increase their vitality, and give them a shiny coat. However, BARF also carries risks if the rations are not prepared correctly.

This page provides an objective overview of the opportunities, risks, and common mistakes – and explains when professional advice is advisable.

What does it mean to feed a raw diet (BARF)?

BARF stands for raw feeding with raw meat, offal, bones, vegetables, and supplementary ingredients.

The goal is a diet as natural as possible, without industrial processing.

Advantages of BARF

  • Full control over ingredients

  • Natural and fresh ingredients

  • No artificial additives, preservatives, flavor enhancers, or fillers

  • Suitable for puppies, adult dogs, senior dogs, dogs with allergies, and dogs with chronic illnesses

  • Individualized to the dog

  • Often highly accepted

Risks & common mistakes

  • Nutrient deficiencies (especially calcium, phosphorus, iodine, vitamin D, omega fatty acids)

  • Germ contamination from raw meat

  • Incorrect bone quantities → constipation/injuries

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Many problems arise not from BARF itself, but from incorrect handling and implementation.

For whom is BARF suitable – and for whom is it not?

BARF can be suitable for:

  • Healthy and chronically ill dogs

  • Dogs of all ages

  • Owners with time and a willingness to plan and adapt


Not suitable without consultation for:

  • Pregnant bitches

  • Households with immunocompromised individuals

BARF & advice

A sound nutritional consultation helps:

  • Avoid deficiencies

  • Calculate rations correctly

  • Adapt BARF appropriately to the dog


BARF should not be a gut feeling, but a well-thought-out nutritional concept.

Here you can learn more about dog nutrition advice:

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