What is the BARF diet? | Works?

If you're a dog lover and you're concerned about their health, chances are you've heard of the BARF diet for dogs. The BARF diet, also known as ACBA (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), consists of feeding your dog raw and natural foods, such as meat, bones, fruits and vegetables. We will tell you everything you need to know about the BARF diet for dogs.

What is the BARF diet?

The BARF diet is a nutritional approach for dogs that is based on offering raw and natural foods to mimic the diet they would have in the wild. This diet was developed by Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst in the 1990s, and has gained popularity around the world due to its canine health benefits. BARF is an acronym that stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food . This diet is based on the premise that dogs are carnivorous animals and therefore need a diet rich in high-quality protein and healthy fats.

What foods can be given in the BARF diet?

This diet is made up of raw and natural foods, such as meat, bones, fruits and vegetables. The foods that can be included in the BARF diet are the following:

• Raw meat: Beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, etc.
• Raw Bones: Bones of chicken, lamb, rabbit, etc.
• Vegetables and fruits: Carrots, broccoli, apples, bananas, etc.
• Organs: Liver, kidneys, heart, etc.
• Eggs: Eggs raw, boiled or with crushed shell.
• Supplements: Fish oil, vitamins, minerals, etc.

Benefits of the BARF diet for dogs

This diet can offer you several health benefits for your dogs. Here are some of them:

• Improves dental health: Some raw foods, such as meaty bones, can be beneficial for the dental health of dogs. Chewing on meaty bones can help keep teeth clean and strong, and reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
• Improves Digestive Health: You can help improve the digestive health of dogs by providing a variety of natural and nutritious foods. By including raw foods like fruits and vegetables, you provide a source of fiber that can improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation.
• Improves skin and coat health: It can improve the health of the skin and coat of dogs. By including foods rich in omega -3 fatty acids, such as fish, inflammation and irritation of the skin can be reduced, which can help prevent skin problems such as dermatitis. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids can improve the shine and softness of the coat.
• Strengthens the immune system : A well-balanced BARF diet can help strengthen the immune system of dogs by providing essential nutrients that can improve overall health. Raw, fresh foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help prevent disease and maintain your dog's health.
• Reduces inflammation: It can reduce inflammation in the body of dogs. Some raw foods, such as meaty bones, contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help reduce inflammation in the joints and improve mobility.
• Improves mental health: You can improve the mental health of dogs by providing a variety of nutritious and healthy foods. Dogs that eat a healthy, balanced diet may have more energy, be more active, and have a more positive overall attitude.
• Reduces behavior problems : It can also help reduce behavior problems in dogs. By providing a healthy, balanced diet, behavioral problems related to poor eating, such as aggression, anxiety, and low energy, can be reduced.

In general, the BARF diet can offer several health benefits for dogs. However, it is important to remember that every dog is different and may have different nutritional needs. It's important to talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet to make sure he's getting all the necessary nutrients.