Raw Feeding English Mastiffs: The History, Benefits, risks, and philosophy behind a biologically appropriate diet

Nutrition is one of the most important foundations of raising a healthy giant breed dog. With English Mastiffs reaching some of the largest sizes of any domestic dog breed, responsible feeding requires careful attention to growth, development, body condition, and long-term wellness.

At Mastiff Kennel of America, we believe puppy buyers should understand not only what their puppy eats, but why nutrition decisions are made.

One feeding philosophy that has gained significant attention among dog owners worldwide is raw feeding, often referred to as the BARF diet.

BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food, depending on the interpretation. The concept centers around providing dogs with minimally processed foods that resemble components of the diet their ancestors evolved consuming.

Raw feeding is not a magic solution, and it is not the only way to feed a dog successfully. Like any nutrition approach, it requires education, preparation, and a commitment to providing a complete and balanced diet.

The History of the BARF Diet

The modern BARF movement became widely recognized through the work of Australian veterinarian and author Dr. Ian Billinghurst.

After years of veterinary practice, Dr. Billinghurst questioned whether heavily processed commercial diets represented the best nutritional approach for dogs. He believed dogs could benefit from a diet based around fresh, whole foods that more closely reflected their evolutionary history.

In 1993, he published "Give Your Dog a Bone," introducing many pet owners to the concept of feeding dogs raw meaty bones, fresh meats, vegetables, and other natural ingredients.

Dr. Billinghurst later expanded on these ideas through additional publications and education surrounding raw feeding.

The BARF philosophy helped create a broader movement toward:

• fresh-food diets,

• ingredient transparency,

• understanding canine nutrition,

• questioning one-size-fits-all feeding approaches.

Today, raw feeding exists in many forms. Some owners prepare meals at home, while others choose commercially prepared raw diets created with nutritional balancing in mind.

Why Nutrition Matters for English Mastiffs

Giant breeds have unique nutritional considerations.

English Mastiffs experience rapid growth during puppyhood, meaning excessive calories, improper mineral balance, or inappropriate growth rates can place unnecessary stress on developing joints and skeletal structures.

A responsible nutrition plan should consider:

• Controlled growth

• Healthy body condition

• Appropriate protein and calorie levels

• Balanced vitamins and minerals

• Individual health needs

• Age and activity level

Nutrition is only one piece of the equation. Genetics, veterinary care, exercise, socialization, and responsible breeding decisions all contribute to the development of a healthy companion.

What Is Included in a BARF-Style Diet?

While formulations vary, many BARF-style diets include:

Muscle Meat

Examples:

• Beef

• Turkey

• Poultry

• Fish

• Other appropriate protein sources

Muscle meat provides protein and essential nutrients needed for maintenance and development.

Organ Meat

Examples:

• Liver

• Kidney

• Heart

• Other secreting organs

Organs are naturally nutrient-dense and are an important component of many raw feeding models.

Raw Edible Bones

Examples:

• Ground bone

• Properly selected raw edible bones

Bones can provide minerals such as calcium and phosphorus when appropriately incorporated.

Fruits, Vegetables, and Supplements

Examples:

• Dog-safe fruits

• Vegetables

• Additional vitamins or minerals when needed

The goal is not simply feeding raw ingredients — the goal is creating a complete nutritional profile.