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Low-Cost Feeding Guide: BARF on a Budget

How to provide balanced, raw nutrition for your pet without overspending.

By RawDiet • Nov 27, 2025 • Estimated read: 3 min

Low-Cost Feeding Guide: BARF on a Budget

Practical strategies to feed high-quality raw diets without breaking the bank.

Key takeaways
  • Buy in bulk and use a chest freezer to save long-term.
  • Talk to local butchers for useful, cheap cuts or trimmings.
  • Use cheaper proteins like chicken and pork as a base and rotate premium meats only on sale.

Low-Cost Feeding Guide: BARF on a Budget

Feeding your dog a raw diet doesn't have to break the bank. Here are practical strategies to provide high-quality nutrition for less money.

1. Buy in Bulk

Purchasing meat in large quantities is the easiest way to save. Look for restaurant suppliers or wholesale clubs. Invest in a chest freezer to store bulk purchases.

2. Befriend Local Butchers

Butchers often throw away parts that are perfect for dogs, such as chicken carcasses, beef hearts, or organ trimmings. Ask for "dog scraps" or discounts on older inventory.

3. Focus on Cheaper Proteins

Chicken and pork are generally more affordable than beef or lamb. Use these as your base (approx. 50-60%) and rotate in more expensive red meats when they are on sale to keep costs down.

4. Seasonal Shopping

Like fruits and vegetables, meat prices fluctuate. Buy turkey after holidays or specific cuts when there is a surplus in the market.

5. Meal Prep

Pre-packaged raw food is convenient but expensive. Dedicate one afternoon a month to portioning and freezing your own DIY mixes. You pay with time, but you save cash.