Barfen for dogs - natural, raw and not without responsibility

What does barfing mean?

BARF stands for "Biologically Appropriate Raw Feeding" - in other words, a diet for dogs that is based on the original prey of a wolf. This means: raw meat, bones, offal, fish, vegetables, fruit and oils - as unprocessed and natural as possible.

We - Lui & Paulina - approach barfing with a healthy mixture of openness and responsibility. Yes, it can be a very species-appropriate feeding method - but only if it is well planned and balanced. Simply throwing raw meat into the bowl is not enough.

Why do many people opt for barfing?

Many owners want a natural diet for their dog without artificial additives, grains or industrial products. Barfing promises exactly that. And many dogs quickly show positive effects:

• Shinier coat

• less faeces

• better dental health

• Fewer skin problems or allergies

But not every dog automatically benefits. And not every barf ration is automatically healthy.

What is involved in barfing?

A balanced barf ration usually consists of:

• approx. 70-80 % animal ingredients (muscle meat, bones, offal)

• approx. 20-30 % vegetable content (vegetables, fruit, herbs)

• plus oils (e.g. salmon oil, hemp oil)

• and, if necessary, additives such as seaweed meal, eggshell powder or trace elements

The important thing is that the ration must meet the needs of the individual dog - depending on age, activity, state of health and weight. This requires knowledge - or the support of anutritional expert.

Common mistakes when barking

• Incorrect composition (e.g. too much bone)

• Lack of micronutrients (e.g. iodine, zinc, copper)

• improper storage

• Hygiene problems (raw meat harbours risks - for humans and animals)

• One-sided feeding over a long period of time

Especially for puppies, senior citizens or sick dogs, incorrect barfing can do more harm than good.

Our approach at Vitomalia

We do not give generalised advice "pro" or "contra" barf - but provide individual support. If you want to barf, you should:

• familiarise yourself thoroughly

• Seek professional help (e.g. veterinarians specialising in nutrition)

• Be prepared to take on time and responsibility

Alternatively, there are also good compromise solutions such as ready-made barf menus, cooked rations or high-quality wet food alternatives.

Our conclusion

Barfing can be a wonderful form of feeding - if it is well thought out. It's not about ideology, but about health. And health requires knowledge, care and attentiveness.

Because in the end, what counts is not how natural it looks - but how good it really is for the dog.