When you start raw feeding, you'll quickly run into two acronyms: BARF and PMR. Both are complete, well-established approaches — they just get there slightly differently.
PMR (Prey Model Raw)
PMR aims to recreate the whole prey animal a dog might eat in the wild: roughly 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ, with no plant matter. It's simple, meat-focused, and appeals to people who want the most ancestral approach.
BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food)
BARF uses a similar meat-and-bone base but adds fruits, vegetables, and sometimes seeds or supplements — typically around 70% muscle meat, 10% bone, 10% organ, and 10% produce. Supporters like the extra fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.
How to choose
Neither is “better” in every case. Consider:
- Simplicity: PMR has fewer ingredients to source and balance.
- Digestive support: some dogs do well with the added fiber in BARF.
- Your dog's preferences: some dogs love veg, others ignore it.
Many people start with one and adjust based on how their dog responds. The good news is you don't have to commit forever.
The FreshFed Feeding System supports both models — plus Ancestral, Whole Prey, and Gently Cooked — with a single toggle that re-balances every portion instantly. Not sure how much to feed either way? Start with the free Calorie Calculator.
Educational only — not veterinary advice.
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