BARF diets, or “Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods” for dogs and even cats are becoming increasingly popular with owners, breeders, veterinarians and even pet nutritionists, even though the name is not very pleasant. Also called “Bones And Raw Foods” diets, these dietary plans are more natural and in actuality are going back in time to what dogs would have eaten when they were living wild and free, before being domesticated.

To know and understand why these diets are nutritionally sound and therefore very important, you first need to understand a dog's true nutritional requirements. Most people believe that a dog is primarily a meat eater. In reality a dog is not a carnivore meaning they eat just meat, but are truly an omnivore, eating both plants and other animals. Humans are also omnivores. Some other animals, cats, for example, are called "Obligate Carnivores" and need a lot more meat in their diet than a dog does to stay healthy. Dogs need less meat and more vegetable matter and even some grains to achieve normal growth, health and body function.

These new eating plans use lean red meats on the bones, vegetables, fruits and certain dietary supplements to provide a more natural, healthier diet. The meats include raw chicken, beef, lamb and certain raw fish. The red meat is served still on the bone so the portions have to be in line to accommodate for that as well as for the size of the dog. Include leafy vegetables such as spinach or kale and broccoli, turnips, carrots, green beans and squash as well as some fresh fruits in the diet. Vegetables are best when they are chopped or pureed, depending on the dog's preference and the diet. Eggs, organ meats, yogurt and natural oils for Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids are other important ingredients that are necessary to ensure the dog receives a nutritionally balanced diet. The quantity of food provided each day is based upon the dog’s individual weight and level of activity.

To help you decide whether or not the BARF diet is right for your dog, keep in mind that your dog's body will need some time to adjust to the new foods and eating habits. This includes more frequent bathroom trips and even more flatulence than usual at first. This will lessen with time and as the dog becomes accustomed to the new diet. Most owners report healthier, happier and more energetic dogs with lustrous coats and no bad breath. Also, allergies and other conditions exhibit fewer symptoms while on these diets.

BARF diets are now available in pre-measured packages that can be found in the frozen food case. They can be stored in dog food storage containers and simplied thawed when needed. Or you can buy everything fresh and prepare the meals from scratch yourself. If you know or use a butcher you might be able to work out an arrangement for fresh meaty bones, just remember to specify lean meat and low fat is required. Eliminate even more unnecessary additives by using naturally grown meats and produce.