The possible future of BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Feed) in canine nutrition

Abstract

BARF represents an increasing trend for feeding dogs in Germany. Despite this fact, only a limited number of surveys are available concerning the reasons to choose this type of nutrition and concerning the balance of the BARF rations. In the present study altogether 60 questionnaires were completedbetween July and August 2016, dog owners were asked to complete a questionnaire mainly concerning the advantages and disadvantages of commercial dog food and BARF. In total, 60 questionnaires were used for statistical analysis. Aim of my study is to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of BARF. In addition to that it should be analyzed if BARF is only a temporary trend or if this kind of feeding technology represents a real alternative to commercial dog foods. The questionnaires were analyzed statistically with the help of a free software environment for statistical computing and graphics called R.