Best Alternative to Raw Dog Food: A Comprehensive Guide

Raw dog food has become increasingly popular among pet owners in recent years due to its perceived health benefits. However, feeding raw dog food comes with some risks, including bacterial contamination and potential nutrient imbalances. For pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and balanced diet without the risks associated with raw food, there are alternative options available.

One such option is cooked dog food, which provides the same nutritional benefits as raw food but without the risk of bacterial contamination. Cooked dog food is also easier to digest for some dogs, making it a great option for pets with sensitive stomachs.

When choosing a cooked dog food, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients and ensure that the food is made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients. Look for options that are free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

In our search for the best alternative to raw dog food, we spent hours researching and testing various options to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition and taste for dogs.

Best Alternatives to Raw Dog Food

As pet owners, we want to provide our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. While raw dog food has gained popularity in recent years, it may not be the best choice for every pet. Whether it’s due to concerns about food safety, convenience, or simply personal preference, there are plenty of alternatives to raw dog food that can provide your pet with a balanced and healthy diet.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the best alternatives to raw dog food. We’ve researched and tested a variety of options to bring you a list of products that are not only nutritious but also delicious for your furry friend. So, if you’re looking for a new food option for your pet, keep reading to find the perfect alternative to raw dog food.

Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a convenient and nutritious alternative to raw dog food, Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• Contains 90% real grass-fed lamb and lamb organs raised ethically in New Zealand, with no added hormones or antibiotics
• Gently air-dried using a small batch technique that maintains the nutrients and natural taste of the raw ingredients
• No need to add water – just pour and serve, with a moist, chunky texture like real meat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food
• Can be more expensive than other types of dog food
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues

We recently tried this product with our own dogs, and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the air-dried format. Our dogs seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we appreciated that it was made with natural, ethically-sourced ingredients.

One thing to note is that this food may not be suitable for all dogs – some may not enjoy the taste or texture, and others may have dietary restrictions that prevent them from eating certain types of food. Additionally, this product can be more expensive than other types of dog food, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we would recommend Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality alternative to raw dog food that is convenient and easy to serve.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef

If you’re looking for a high-quality alternative to raw dog food, the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: The slow oven-roasting process retains maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor, making it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• Real Beef is the #1 Ingredient: The single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe is made with 96% beef to satisfy your pup’s carnivore cravings and a 4% blend of flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, -amp; minerals to help support healthy joints and hips.
• Vet Recommended Complete Nutrition for All Life Stages: The healthy dog food is vet recommended, AAFCO Compliant, and made in an SQF (Safe Quality Food) certified facility so you can rest assured that your pup is getting a safe, nutritious meal.

Cons

• Price: It is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Crumbles Easily: Some customers have reported that the food crumbles too easily, which can lead to waste.
• Limited Size Options: It only comes in a 2lb bag, which may not be enough for larger dogs or those who eat more.

We recently tried this dog food for our furry friend and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value. The air-dried process made it easy to store and serve, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture.

One thing to keep in mind is that the food can crumble easily, so be sure to store it properly and handle it gently. Additionally, the price point may be a bit high for some pet owners, but we believe that the quality of the product justifies the cost.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality alternative to raw dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is definitely worth considering.

Addiction Herbed Lamb -amp; Potatoes Raw Alternative Dog Food

If you’re looking for a raw alternative dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, then the Addiction Herbed Lamb -amp; Potatoes Raw Alternative Dog Food might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Made with grass-fed New Zealand lamb for a premium source of protein
• Enriched with a medley of nutrient-rich superfoods for a holistic approach to your dog’s well-being
• Infused with aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme for enticing aromas and potential health benefits

Cons

• Some customers have reported finding animal hair in the product
• A few dogs have refused to eat this food
• A bit pricey compared to other dog foods

Our experience with Addiction Herbed Lamb -amp; Potatoes Raw Alternative Dog Food has been positive overall. Our furry friend loved the taste, and we appreciated the wholesome ingredients that went into it. The lamb was tender and flavorful, and the superfoods added a nice variety of vitamins and minerals to the meal. We also liked that it could be served in different ways, giving us flexibility in how we fed our dog.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported finding animal hair in the product. While we didn’t experience this issue ourselves, it’s something to be aware of. Additionally, a few dogs have refused to eat this food, so it may not be the right choice for picky eaters. Finally, it is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we would recommend Addiction Herbed Lamb -amp; Potatoes Raw Alternative Dog Food to those looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that is made with premium ingredients.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality alternative to raw dog food, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend is a great option. Our dogs loved the protein-rich taste and we appreciated the high-quality ingredients and lack of fillers.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Blend dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; the flavor and nutrition of raw is in every bite with freeze-dried raw coating, plus freeze-dried raw chunks.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: Feeding your pet a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild helps your pet thrive; 90% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage.
• Great for the Skin -amp; Coat: Omega fatty acids from chia seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support.

Cons

• Expensive: This dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Raw Chunks are Limited: Some reviewers have noted that there are not many raw chunks in the food.
• Not Suitable for All Dogs: This recipe includes six poultry-free animal protein sources, which may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We were impressed with the high-quality ingredients in this dog food. The lack of fillers and artificial ingredients made us feel good about feeding it to our dogs. Additionally, the protein-rich taste was a hit with our dogs, and we noticed an improvement in their skin and coat health after switching to this food.

The only downsides we noticed were the price and the limited amount of raw chunks in the food. However, we still feel that the high-quality ingredients and nutritional benefits make this dog food a great alternative to raw food diets.

Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Real Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high protein dog food that’s made with real ingredients, then Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Real Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food may be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Combines high protein kibble with all-natural bites of freeze-dried raw beef
• Made without corn, wheat, soy, potato, peas, lentils, by-product meal, artificial colors or preservatives
• Contains probiotics to support healthy digestion and omegas for skin -amp; coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew
• The price is a bit higher than some other dog foods

We recently tried Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Real Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The kibble is made with whole grains and real salmon, and it’s packed with protein to help keep dogs energized throughout the day.

One of the things we liked about this dog food is that it contains freeze-dried raw beef bites, which adds a nice texture and flavor to the kibble. We also appreciate that it’s made without any artificial colors or preservatives, and it contains probiotics to support healthy digestion.

While our dogs seemed to enjoy the taste of this dog food, we did notice that the kibble was a bit harder than some other brands we’ve tried. This may be a concern for dogs with dental issues or older dogs who have trouble chewing.

Overall, we would recommend Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Real Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with real ingredients. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other brands, we think the quality of the ingredients is worth the extra cost.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dog food that can help support your dog’s muscle strength, digestion, skin and coat health, immune system, and heart health, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is worth considering.

Pros

• Real chicken is the number one ingredient.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat.
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble may be too small for large dogs.
• The bag is not resealable.

We recently tried Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no digestive issues while eating it.

One thing to note is that the kibble is on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for larger dogs who prefer larger pieces of food. Additionally, the bag is not resealable, so it may be best to transfer the food to an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Overall, we recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for pet owners looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that can help support their dog’s health and well-being.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Prairie Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Prairie Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality alternative to raw dog food, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Prairie Recipe is worth considering.

Pros

• The recipe includes six animal protein sources that your dog will love.
• The kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw meat for a protein-rich taste.
• The recipe is grain-free and has no unnecessary fillers.

Cons

• The product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food options.
• The bag is only 3.5 pounds, which may not be enough for larger dogs.
• The expiration date is not clearly stated on the product listing.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Prairie Recipe for a few weeks now, and our dog seems to love it. The kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw meat, which gives it a unique taste that our dog can’t get enough of. Plus, it’s packed with six different animal protein sources, which we feel good about feeding our dog.

One thing to note is that the product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food options. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Additionally, the bag is only 3.5 pounds, which may not be enough for larger dogs.

Overall, we’re happy with our purchase of Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Prairie Recipe. If you’re looking for a high-quality alternative to raw dog food, we recommend giving it a try.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a grain-free alternative to raw dog food, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, making it a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, it’s a natural dog food with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs.
• Fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported receiving bags with dark-colored kibble that smells like beef, rather than salmon.
• While most dogs seem to love the taste, a few picky eaters may not be as enthusiastic.
• While it’s not the most expensive dog food on the market, it’s definitely not the cheapest.

We’ve been feeding our dog Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for a few months now and have been happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste, and we appreciate that it’s made with wholesome ingredients that help support his overall health and well-being.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported receiving bags with dark-colored kibble that smells like beef, rather than salmon. We haven’t experienced this ourselves, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you decide to give this dog food a try.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality, grain-free alternative to raw dog food. It’s a bit pricey, but we feel that the benefits outweigh the cost.

ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food – Grass-fed Beef -amp; Pumpkin Recipe

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious alternative to raw dog food, the ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food – Grass-fed Beef -amp; Pumpkin Recipe might be the perfect choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with 85% premium meats, including raw high protein grass-fed beef, organs, and ground bone to meet the needs of a dog’s whole prey diet.
• Supports digestive health with natural fiber and prebiotics from pumpkin, beets, carrots, and chicory root.
• No unwanted potatoes, soy, sugars, or added hormones in the recipe.

Cons

• The product is a bit on the expensive side.
• Some dogs may not like the unique, aerated texture of the food.
• The 1.8-pound pack may not last long for larger dogs.

We recently tried this product for our dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutrition it provides. Our dog loved the taste and had no trouble digesting it, even though he has a sensitive stomach.

One of the things we liked about this product is that it provides a complete and balanced meal for all life stages of dogs, from puppy to adult to senior. You can also use it as a nutritious base, mixer, or topper to enhance your dog’s regular meals.

Another thing we appreciated is that the beef used in this product is ethically sourced from New Zealand’s green pastures, where the animals are raised under the Freedom Principles without artificial hormones. The meat is delicately micro-steamed and gently air-dried via the innovative two-step Z-MicroSteam™ technology to ensure optimum nourishment and palatability.

Overall, we think the ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food – Grass-fed Beef -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great alternative to raw dog food that provides the nutrition and taste that your dog deserves.

Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal

If you are looking for a healthy and convenient alternative to raw dog food, Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is worth considering.

Pros

• Raw food nutrition without the hassle
• Made with human-grade ingredients
• Safe and shelf-stable

Cons

• Expensive compared to traditional kibble
• Strong smell may not be appealing to all dogs
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We have been using Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for a few weeks now, and we are impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the product. Simply Raw combines the safety, easy preparation, and shelf-stable convenience of kibble and canned food with the unsurpassed nutrition offered in real, fresh raw food. Just add water to make this 3 lb bag into over 18 lbs of raw whole food, ready to serve in minutes.

The ingredients are carefully chosen to support holistic health and provide functional benefits for lasting wellness. The product is made with freeze-dried raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics, and prebiotics. We appreciate that Nature’s Diet is proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients they use to make Simply Raw, and they never put anything into their dog food that isn’t listed on the label. No fillers, no grains, no GMOs, no unnatural preservatives, no soy, no added flavorings or dyes. Just honest, raw, whole food nutrition.

We also appreciate that Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is made lovingly in small batches in the USA with regionally sourced ingredients and humanely raised meat. Real food for healthy dogs and a healthier planet.

Freeze-drying is a natural food preservation process which removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food. Freeze-Dried Raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet. It is shelf-stable, safe to handle, and easy to store.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for pet owners who want a high-quality, convenient, and healthy alternative to traditional kibble.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best alternative to raw dog food, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a product:

Ingredients

It is important to choose a product that contains high-quality ingredients. Look for options that include real meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the product you choose provides your dog with all the necessary nutrients. Look for options that have a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Check the label for information on vitamins and minerals.

Price

The cost of alternative dog food can vary greatly. Consider your budget and choose a product that is affordable without compromising quality.

Texture

Some dogs may prefer certain textures over others. Consider your dog’s preferences when choosing between wet, dry, or semi-moist options.

Brand Reputation

Choose a product from a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands with positive customer reviews and a commitment to transparency.

By considering these factors, you can find the best alternative to raw dog food for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended alternatives to a raw dog food diet?

If you’re looking for an alternative to a raw dog food diet, there are several options available. Some of the top recommended alternatives include cooked dog food, freeze-dried dog food, and air-dried dog food. These options provide similar benefits to raw feeding without the potential risks associated with raw meat.

Which freeze-dried dog food options provide similar benefits to raw feeding?

Freeze-dried dog food is a popular alternative to raw feeding because it retains many of the benefits of raw food while being easier to handle and store. Some of the top recommended freeze-dried dog food options include Stella -amp; Chewy’s, Primal Pet Foods, and Honest Kitchen.

What are the best cold-pressed dog food brands for dogs typically fed raw?

Cold-pressed dog food is another alternative to raw feeding that provides many of the same benefits without the risks associated with raw meat. Some of the best cold-pressed dog food brands for dogs typically fed raw include Gentle, Guru, and Tribal.

How does air-dried dog food compare to a raw diet for dogs?

Air-dried dog food is another alternative to raw feeding that provides similar benefits without the risks associated with raw meat. Air-dried dog food is made by slowly dehydrating the food at low temperatures, which helps to retain many of the nutrients and enzymes found in raw food. Some of the top recommended air-dried dog food brands include Ziwi Peak, K9 Natural, and Real Pet Food.

What cost-effective options exist for owners looking to switch from a raw food diet?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to a raw food diet, there are several options available. Cooked dog food, freeze-dried dog food, and air-dried dog food are all more affordable than raw feeding, while still providing many of the same benefits.

Can you suggest some high-quality non-kibble dog food choices?

If you’re looking for high-quality non-kibble dog food choices, there are several options available. Cooked dog food, freeze-dried dog food, and air-dried dog food are all great options, as well as canned dog food and dehydrated dog food. Some of the top recommended brands include Stella -amp; Chewy’s, Primal Pet Foods, Honest Kitchen, Ziwi Peak, and K9 Natural.