Calculating BARF costs: Price comparison and savings tips Switzerland

The cost of BARF feeding is an important decision factor for many dog owners in Switzerland. Realistic cost planning helps to keep the budget under control and still guarantee high-quality raw feeding. After the basics of BARF feeding and correct portion calculation, this guide shows you how to calculate BARF costs precisely and save money with clever strategies.

BARF costs in Switzerland vary considerably depending on the quality of the meat, the source of supply and the size of the dog. While a small dog can get by on CHF 3-5 per day, the costs for large breeds can be up to CHF 15 per day. However, with the right planning and strategic purchasing, 30-50% of the costs can be saved without compromising on quality. A well thought-out cost analysis often shows that BARF is no more expensive in the long term than high-quality ready-to-eat food, but offers considerable health benefits.

Basics of BARF cost calculation

The calculation of BARF costs is based on several factors, all of which must be taken into account for realistic budget planning. Unlike ready-to-eat food, where the price per kilogram is easy to compare, BARF is made up of various components.

The basis of the cost calculation is the daily amount of food that you have already determined by calculating the portion. This quantity multiplied by the prices of the individual components gives the daily feed costs.

The main cost factors are muscle meat (50-60% of the feed quantity), offal (15-20%), raw meaty bones (10-15%) and vegetables/fruit (20-30%). In addition, there are costs for food supplements, storage equipment and preparation utensils.

Swiss particularities in the cost calculation are the high meat prices, limited sources of supply and seasonal price fluctuations. VAT on meat is 7.7%, which is significant for larger quantities.

An important aspect is the distinction between one-off investment costs (freezer, utensils) and ongoing costs (meat, vegetables, supplements). The investment costs are amortized over time and should not distort the daily costs.

Cost breakdown by dog size

BARF costs vary considerably depending on the size of the dog, as larger dogs require more food. A detailed breakdown by weight class helps with realistic budget planning.

Small dogs (5-10 kg): Require about 150-400g of food daily. At average Swiss prices, this results in costs of CHF 3-6 per day or CHF 90-180 per month. Small dogs benefit from more expensive, smaller cuts of meat that would be unsuitable for large dogs.

Medium sized dogs (10-25 kg): Require 300-750g daily, which equates to CHF 6-12 per day or CHF 180-360 per month. This weight category offers the best balance between volume discounts and manageable portion sizes.

Large dogs (25-40 kg): With 750-1200g per day, costs of 12-20 CHF or 360-600 CHF per month are incurred. Buying in bulk is particularly worthwhile here, as larger pieces of meat are cheaper per kilogram.

Giant breeds (over 40 kg): Require 1200-2000g daily, which costs 20-35 CHF or 600-1050 CHF per month. For these quantities, direct purchases from the butcher or farmer are often more economical than retail.

These guide values are based on a balanced mix of different types of meat and quality grades. Premium organic meat can increase the cost by 50-100%, while cheap offal can halve the cost.

Swiss reality: In urban areas such as Zurich or Geneva, meat prices can be 20-30% higher than in rural areas. Take this into account when planning your budget.

Price comparison of Swiss sources of supply

Choosing the right source of supply has a huge impact on BARF costs. Swiss dog owners have various options with different price-performance ratios.

Butchers: Local butchers often offer the best quality and can fulfill special requests. Beef costs 18-35 CHF/kg, poultry 12-25 CHF/kg. Many butchers offer regular customer discounts or lower prices for larger quantities. Offal such as lungs or spleen is often significantly cheaper.

Supermarket chains: Coop, Migros and others offer standardized quality at medium prices. Promotions can bring considerable savings. Beef 20-40 CHF/kg, poultry 15-30 CHF/kg. The advantage is consistent availability and easy accessibility.

BARF stores: Specialized online stores and stores offer portioned, often frozen BARF menus. Prices range from 8-15 CHF/kg for complete menus. The advantage is the time saving, the disadvantage is the higher price compared to individual ingredients.

Direct marketers: Farms and abattoirs often sell directly to end consumers. Prices can be 20-40% below retail, but require larger purchase quantities. Particularly worthwhile for dog owners with several animals or groups.

Wholesale: For very large quantities, there are wholesalers who sometimes sell to private customers. Minimum order quantities of 20-50 kg are common, prices can be 30-50% below retail.

The best prices are often achieved through a combination of different sources: Basic supplies from direct marketers, special ingredients from butchers, supermarket promotions.

Saving tips for BARF beginners

With clever strategies, BARF beginners can save a lot of money without compromising on quality. These tips will help you keep costs under control right from the start.

Seasonal purchases: Take advantage of seasonal fluctuations. Game is cheaper in the fall, lamb is often reduced before Easter. Plan your BARF diet according to the season.

Volume discounts: Buy larger quantities and portion at home. 5-10 kg packages are often 20-30% cheaper per kilogram. Share large quantities with other dog owners or BARF groups.

Inexpensive types of meat: Not all meats are equally expensive. Beef liver often costs only half as much as veal liver, but offers similar nutrients. Chicken meat is usually cheaper than beef or lamb.

Use offal: Lungs, spleen, kidney and other offal are very cheap and rich in nutrients. Many butchers sell these at ridiculous prices as demand is low.

Grow your own vegetables: Carrots, pumpkin and other BARF vegetables can be grown in your own garden. This not only saves money, but also guarantees pesticide-free quality.

Promotions and offers: Follow BARF stores and butchers on social media. Many announce special promotions there first. Stock clearances often offer a 30-50% discount.

Cooperative shopping: Join forces with other dog owners for bulk purchases. Many regions have BARF groups that order together.

Hidden costs and additional expenses

In addition to the obvious meat costs, there are other expenses associated with BARF that are often overlooked. A complete cost calculation takes into account all aspects of raw feeding.

Storage costs: A separate freezer costs CHF 500-1500 to purchase plus CHF 100-200 per year for electricity. With intensive BARF feeding, however, this investment is amortized by volume discounts.

Utensils and equipment: vacuum sealer (200-500 CHF), special knives (50-150 CHF), cutting boards (30-100 CHF), containers and scales (50-200 CHF). These one-off investments last for years and improve efficiency and hygiene.

Food supplements: Omega-3 oils (20-40 CHF/month), vitamin supplements (10-30 CHF/month), minerals (15-25 CHF/month). These costs can vary depending on the composition of the food.

Time costs: BARF requires more time for planning, shopping and preparation. Allow 2-4 hours a week for one dog. This time has an economic value, especially with high hourly wages.

Transportation costs: Trips to butchers, farms or BARF stores cost petrol and time. For rural sources, these costs can be significant.

Veterinary costs: While BARF often leads to better health, there may be higher veterinary costs initially for blood tests or consultations. Budget CHF 200-500 for the first year.

Losses due to spoilage: Particularly at the beginning, misjudgements can be made regarding quantities or storage. Expect a loss of 5-10% due to spoilage or incorrect portioning.

Cost comparison BARF vs. ready-to-eat food

An objective cost comparison between BARF and ready-to-eat food helps in the decision-making process. The calculation is complex, as different quality levels have to be compared.

Inexpensive dry food: Costs CHF 2-4 per day for a medium-sized dog. However, the quality is often questionable with a high grain content and inferior proteins. Long-term health costs can negate these savings.

High quality dry food: Premium brands cost CHF 4-8 per day. The quality is better, but still not comparable to fresh BARF meat. Supplements are often necessary.

Wet food: High-quality wet food costs CHF 6-12 per day. The water content is high, the nutritional value per franc is lower than with BARF.

BARF (budget version): With inexpensive types of meat and clever purchasing, CHF 4-8 per day is possible. The quality is significantly higher than with comparably expensive ready-made food.

BARF (premium version): Organic meat and the best ingredients cost CHF 8-15 a day. In return, you get maximum quality and control over all ingredients.

The long-term health effects are difficult to quantify, but many BARF feeders report lower vet costs, better coats, fewer allergies and a higher quality of life for their dogs.

Realistic assessment: BARF is usually 20-50% more expensive than standard dry food, but often cheaper than premium wet food. Better health can save money in the long term.

Budget planning for BARF beginners

Structured budget planning helps BARF beginners to keep costs under control right from the start and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Calculate a starting budget: Plan an extra CHF 500-1500 for the first three months for equipment and the learning phase. This includes the freezer (if necessary), utensils, initial meat supplies and possible bad purchases.

Set a monthly budget: Based on your calculated portions and local prices. Add 20% buffer for price fluctuations and unplanned expenses.

Keep a cost diary: Make a note of all BARF-related expenses for the first few months. This will give you a feel for the real costs and allow you to adjust your budget.

Plan emergency reserves: Always keep 1-2 weeks' worth of meat in the freezer. This prevents expensive emergency purchases and makes use of volume discounts.

Seasonal planning: budget higher expenses in the fall for winter supplies and lower costs in the summer for local vegetable harvests.

Maintain flexibility: Tailor your meat selection to your budget. In more expensive months, stockpile more poultry instead of beef; in less expensive months, stockpile high-quality varieties.

Measure success: Compare not only direct food costs, but also veterinary costs, the dog's quality of life and your satisfaction with feeding.

TL;DR - The most important points at a glance

• Daily costs: 3-6 CHF (small dogs), 6-12 CHF (medium), 12-20 CHF (large), 20-35 CHF (giant)
• Saving tips: Seasonal purchases, bulk discounts, direct marketers, use slaughterhouse waste
• Hidden costs: Storage, utensils, food supplements, time and transportation costs
• Sources of supply: Butcher (best quality), direct marketers (best prices), BARF stores (convenience)
• Budget planning: Allow for a 20% buffer, initial investment CHF 500-1500
• Comparison: BARF is often cheaper than premium wet food, more expensive than standard dry food
• Long-term: health benefits can reduce veterinary costs

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is BARF more expensive than ready-to-eat food? BARF is usually 20-50% more expensive than standard dry food, but often cheaper than high-quality wet food. Better health can save money in the long term.

How much does BARF cost per month for a 20 kg dog? In Switzerland, you can expect to pay CHF 180-360 per month, depending on the quality of the meat and the source of supply. On average around 250-300 CHF.

Where is the cheapest place to buy BARF meat? Direct marketers and farms often offer the best prices. Butchers for quality, supermarkets for special offers. Avoid expensive BARF ready-made menus.

Is a separate BARF freezer worthwhile? With regular BARF feeding, a freezer pays for itself within 1-2 years thanks to volume discounts. Plus more flexibility when shopping.

Can I deduct BARF costs from my tax bill? No, dog food is considered a private living expense and is not tax-deductible. Exception: For service dogs or breeding activities.

How much do I save by buying in a group? Group purchases can bring savings of 20-40%, especially with wholesalers. You also share transportation costs and have a better negotiating position.

What does the initial BARF equipment cost? Expect to pay CHF 300-800 for basic equipment: freezer containers, utensils, scales. A separate freezer costs an additional CHF 500-1500.

Are organic meat products necessary for BARF? Not absolutely, but recommended. Organic meat is 30-50% more expensive, but offers better quality and fewer harmful substances. Conventional meat is sufficient to start with.

How do I calculate BARF costs correctly? The basis is the daily amount of food multiplied by the average price per kg. Plus 20% for food supplements and additional costs. Then times 30 for monthly costs.

Are there BARF discounts or loyalty programs? Many BARF stores and butchers offer regular customer discounts or volume discounts. Online stores often have newsletter discounts or promotions for new customers.

Conclusion: Making BARF economical and sustainable

BARF costs don't have to break the budget if you plan strategically and make smart purchases. With the basics from our BARF beginner's guide, the correct portion calculation and well thought-out cost planning, high-quality raw feeding can be realized even with a limited budget.

Think long-term: the initially higher costs for BARF can pay off in the form of better health, fewer visits to the vet and a better quality of life for your dog. Invest in quality, but don't overdo it - you can also create a balanced BARF diet with inexpensive meats.

Start with a realistic budget, gain experience and optimize step by step. Most BARF feeders develop a good feel for costs and sources of supply after a few months. Don't be afraid to ask other dog owners about their experiences - the BARF community is helpful and happy to share money-saving tips. With the right approach, BARF is an investment in your dog's health that will pay off in the long term.