BARF vs. PMR – What’s the difference?

At Rawsome Pet Pantry, we believe feeding your pet well shouldn’t be confusing. So, we’ll keep things simple and talk about two of the most common raw diet types: BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) and PMR (Prey Model Raw).

What is BARF?

Far from what the acronym calls to mind, BARF stands for “Biologically Appropriate Raw Food.” This is a raw diet consisting of raw muscle meat and raw meaty bones, as well as vegetables and fruits. BARF diets are a great way to provide dogs a balanced diet with essential nutrients.

The BARF model diet is the most common and popular raw diet for dogs.

A BARF diet can be home prepared with multiple ingredients to provide recommended allowances for essential nutrients. Or, for those looking for a more convenient way to feed a BARF diet, Rawsome Pet Pantry offers several options such as this Beef blend from Halshan Premium Raw Food.

 

What is PMR?

The Prey Model Raw or PMR diet provides dogs with a diet which closely mimics that of their ancestors and wild cousins. Unlike the BARF diet, a PMR diet is based on whole, wild prey animals and does not include plant ingredients. While dogs don’t require plant ingredients to have a complete diet, they do require essential nutrients.

There are two approaches to feeding a PMR diet: Whole prey and Franken Prey.

Whole Prey

Feeding whole, intact prey animals including all internal organs, blood, and glands with fur and feathers still attached.

Franken Prey

Feeding multiple animal protein ingredients to accomplish the PMR diet ratio guidelines.

A PMR diet can be deficient in essential nutrients if specific ingredients are not fed. To be considered balanced, it’s important that the PMR food you give your dog supplies these nutrients in sufficient amounts.

If feeding your dog whole, intact prey animals isn’t an option for you, check out this thoughtfully-crafted Chicken with Bone Blend from Wholesome Raw.

For a deeper dive, here are some helpful guidelines on BARF or PMR from the super-knowledgeable and helpful folks at Perfectly Rawsome, an amazing resource and community for raw feeders and their furry friends.

 

Your friends at Rawsome Pet Pantry

Rawsome Pet Pantry exists to bring premium, nutritious and affordable raw pet food to as many pets as possible. Whether you want a BARF or PMR type of food for your pet, we have what you want. Plus, your dog or cat will love it! We’re located in Fair Oaks, CA, conveniently close to Orangevale, Folsom, Roseville and other cities in the Greater Sacramento area.