Best Raw Dog Food: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right One

Feeding our furry friends is a top priority for pet owners, and with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right food. Raw dog food has been gaining popularity in recent years, with many pet owners opting for this type of diet. Raw dog food consists of uncooked meat, bones, and organs that provide essential nutrients for dogs, similar to their natural diet in the wild.

When looking for the best raw dog food, there are a few critical things to consider. First, it’s essential to ensure that the food is balanced and meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Second, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. You want to choose a brand that uses high-quality, human-grade ingredients and avoids fillers and artificial additives.

We spent hours researching and testing various brands of raw dog food to identify the ones that offer the best quality and nutrition for our furry friends. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and what sets them apart from the rest.

Best Raw Dog Food

As pet owners, we understand how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. Raw dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it offers a more natural and nutrient-dense option for our canine companions. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your dog. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best raw dog foods available. Our top picks are based on ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Read on to find the perfect raw food for your pup.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food, High Protein Real Chicken Kibble Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food, 21 lb. Bag Chicken 2.63 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering. It’s packed with high-quality ingredients that will help your dog thrive, and it’s a great way to get more raw nutrition into your dog’s diet.

Pros

• The cage-free chicken is the #1 ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein for your dog.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces add a boost of nutrition and flavor that your dog will love.
• This food is grain-free, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

Cons

• This food is on the expensive side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces.
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew, especially older dogs or those with dental issues.

We’ve been feeding our dog Instinct Raw Boost for a few months now, and we’ve been really happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his energy levels are higher. We also appreciate that this food is made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial preservatives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this food is on the expensive side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the higher price point.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken to anyone looking for a high-quality raw dog food. It’s a great way to get more raw nutrition into your dog’s diet, and it’s packed with all the nutrients your dog needs to thrive.

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

If you’re looking for a premium, nutrition-packed diet for your furry companion, Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is a commendable option.

Pros

• Made with only the freshest human-grade ingredients
• Freeze-dried raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet
• Shelf stable, safe to handle -amp; easy to store

Cons

• Strong coriander smell
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricey compared to other options

We tried Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for our dogs and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The meal is made with freeze-dried raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics -amp; prebiotics. The ingredient list is transparent, with no fillers, no grains, no GMOs, no unnatural preservatives, no soy, no added flavorings or dyes.

Preparing the meal is easy, just add water to make this 3 lb bag into over 18 lbs of raw whole food, ready to serve in minutes. For a thicker texture, allow to sit for 1 hour or overnight in the fridge. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or pre-portioned in the freezer for longer-term fresh storage. Simply thaw and serve!

One downside we noticed is the strong coriander smell, which some dogs may not like. Additionally, the product is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.

Overall, Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is a great option for pet owners looking to give their dogs a high-quality, nutritious meal.

Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a high-quality raw dog food for your small breed dog, Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient.
• Includes freeze-dried raw bites for added nutrition and flavor.
• Grain-free and made without any artificial colors, preservatives, or by-product meals.

Cons

• May be more expensive than other dog food options.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the freeze-dried raw bites.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

We have been using Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for several months now and have been very happy with the results. The high-quality, cage-free chicken is a great source of protein and the added freeze-dried raw bites provide additional nutrition and flavor that our dog loves.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may be more expensive than other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and added nutrition make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious dog food option.

Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe

We highly recommend Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their small dogs with a delicious and nutritious meal.

Pros

• Made with high-quality ingredients that promote healthy skin and a shiny coat
• Grain and gluten-free, making it perfect for dogs with sensitivities
• Contains natural probiotics for proper digestion

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

This dry dog food is crafted especially for teacups, toys, and miniature dogs, from puppies to senior adults. It contains select cuts of organically raised chicken along with highly digestible brown rice. The formula is also packed with natural probiotics for proper digestion, as well as flaxseed and pure coconut oil for supple skin and a shiny coat.

One of the best things about Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is that it is grain and gluten-free, making it perfect for small-breed dogs with sensitivities. Additionally, the food is made with high-quality ingredients that promote healthy skin and a shiny coat, such as turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and ginger.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may not be suitable for picky eaters. Additionally, dogs with certain dietary restrictions may not be able to eat this food due to the ingredients used.

Overall, Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their small dogs with a delicious and nutritious meal.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog Food by Nature’s Variety, 4 lb. Bag Salmon 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, real meat ingredients
• Grain-free and free of artificial colors and preservatives
• Includes freeze-dried raw meat pieces for added nutrition and flavor

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the freeze-dried pieces
• More expensive than some other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities

We’ve been using this dog food for several months now and have been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and seems to have more energy and a shinier coat since we switched to this brand.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality, real meat ingredients. The salmon is the #1 ingredient, and the added freeze-dried raw meat pieces provide even more protein and nutrition. Plus, the fact that it’s grain-free and free of artificial colors and preservatives is a big plus.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the freeze-dried pieces. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than some other options, which may be a downside for some pet owners. Finally, it’s important to note that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality raw dog food. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the added nutrition from the freeze-dried pieces make it well worth the investment.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 21 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food that your furry friend will love, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend is definitely worth considering. With responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources, this recipe is packed with the protein-rich taste that dogs crave, along with the nutrition they need to thrive.

Pros

• The recipe includes six poultry-free animal protein sources: beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison, and goat.
• 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.
• Fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, our Raw Blend formula helps improve your dog’s entire well-being, with fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health.

Cons

• Some reviewers have noted that there are not many raw chunks in the kibble.
• The price point is higher than some other dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.

In our experience, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet. The recipe is packed with protein and other essential nutrients, and the absence of fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor, or preservatives makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

One thing to note is that some reviewers have commented that there are not many raw chunks in the kibble. However, we did not find this to be a significant issue, and our dogs seemed to enjoy the kibble regardless.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that their furry friends will love. While the price point may be higher than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits of the recipe make it well worth the investment.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for pet owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dry dog food.

Pros

• Real salmon is the first ingredient, providing a quality protein source for strong muscles.
• Fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble looks and smells different from previous purchases.
• The cost may be slightly higher than other brands, but the high-quality ingredients justify the price.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this particular flavor.

Our experience with Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe has been nothing but positive. Our dog loves the taste and texture of the kibble, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her coat and overall health since switching to this brand. The added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients make it a great choice for maintaining adult dogs’ health.

The nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin make this dry dog food an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. We appreciate that every ingredient is picked with a purpose and that the brand has been creating purposeful recipes for over 40 years.

Overall, we believe that Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great investment in our dog’s health and happiness. We highly recommend it to other pet owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dry dog food.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend

If you’re looking for a high-quality, nutrient-packed raw dog food, Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is a great option.

Pros

• Superfood-Powered Kibble: Raw-coated, nutrient-packed, and crafted with a unique blend of responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods, SuperBlends help your dog thrive. Our Raw Blend recipes even have pieces of freeze-dried raw meat mixed right in for an extra protein boost.
• Delicious Taste, Guaranteed: Made with bone broth and raw-coated for maximum flavor, SuperBlends offer an irresistible taste that your pup is sure to love. Plus, all of our recipes are complete and balanced meals, giving your dog everything they need in one bag.
• Small-Batch, Nutrient-Rich: Our SuperBlends recipes are oven-baked in small batches, helping preserve all the nutrients your pup needs to stay healthy and strong.

Cons

• Price: Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is a bit more expensive than some other raw dog foods on the market.
• Limited Flavors: While there are four different recipes to choose from, some pet owners may wish for more variety.
• Not Suitable for All Dogs: While most dogs do well on a raw food diet, some may have difficulty digesting it or may require a different type of food for their specific health needs.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend for several months now and have been very pleased with the results. Our dog loves the taste and we love that it’s packed with high-quality, nutrient-rich ingredients. We’ve noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and his energy levels are higher since switching to this food.

One thing to note is that the price point is a bit higher than some other raw dog foods on the market, but we feel that the quality justifies the cost. Additionally, while there are four different recipes to choose from, some pet owners may wish for more variety.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutrient-packed raw dog food.

A Better Dog Food | Chicken Dry Dog Food | Raw You Can See | High Protein Kibble Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Chicken 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a raw dog food that’s both healthy and delicious, A Better Dog Food’s Chicken Dry Dog Food is a great option. Our experience with this product has been overwhelmingly positive, and we think it’s definitely worth considering for your furry friend.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw pieces are a great addition to the kibble and provide a boost of nutrients like collagen and fiber.
• The high protein content (35%) is great for developing strong muscles and immune systems in dogs.
• The use of ancient grains and probiotics makes for a highly digestible blend that supports healthy digestion.

Cons

• The kibble is not entirely raw, which may be a drawback for some pet owners looking for a completely raw diet for their dogs.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food options on the market.
• The salmon chunks are few and far between, so if you’re looking for a salmon-heavy dog food, this may not be the best option.

In our experience, A Better Dog Food’s Chicken Dry Dog Food has been a great choice for our dog. The freeze-dried raw pieces are a great addition to the kibble, and our dog seems to love the taste. We’ve also noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health since switching to this dog food.

One thing to note is that the kibble is not entirely raw, which may be a drawback for some pet owners looking for a completely raw diet for their dogs. However, the use of ancient grains and probiotics makes for a highly digestible blend that supports healthy digestion, which is a huge plus.

The price point may be higher than some other dog food options on the market, but we think the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend A Better Dog Food’s Chicken Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality, healthy dog food option.

Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Recipe Dog Food 9.5 Ounce (Pack of 1) Beef

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Recipe Dog Food is definitely worth considering. We’ve tried it out and here’s what we think:

Pros

• More real meat and nutrient-rich organs than kibble
• Never cooked, preserving the integrity of the ingredients and their nutrients
• Made without grain, corn, wheat, soy, legumes, artificial colors or preservatives

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

In our experience, Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Recipe Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to upgrade from kibble to raw dog food. The food is made with high-quality ingredients and is minimally processed, which means it’s easier for dogs to digest and absorb nutrients.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with more real meat and nutrient-rich organs than kibble. This means that each bite is packed with animal-based protein, which is essential for a dog’s health and wellbeing.

Another great thing about Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Recipe Dog Food is that it’s never cooked. This helps to preserve the integrity of the ingredients and their nutrients, ensuring that your dog gets the full benefit of the raw food.

However, there are a few downsides to this dog food. Firstly, it’s quite expensive compared to other dog foods on the market. Secondly, it may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as the raw food can be harder to digest. Lastly, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals Grain Free Recipe Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food. It may be more expensive than other dog foods, but the benefits are definitely worth it.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best raw dog food, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are getting the best product for your furry friend. Here are some features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when choosing a raw dog food is the ingredients. Look for products that use high-quality, whole food ingredients such as muscle meat, organs, and bones. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

Nutritional Value

It is important to choose a raw dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Look for products that provide a balanced and complete diet, including a variety of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Check the labels to ensure that the product meets the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards.

Quality Control

Choose a raw dog food that is manufactured by a reputable company that follows strict quality control measures. Look for products that are made in the USA or Canada, and that use human-grade ingredients. Check for any recalls or safety concerns associated with the product.

Price

Raw dog food can be expensive, so it is important to consider the price when choosing a product. Look for products that offer good value for money, but avoid products that are too cheap, as they may contain low-quality ingredients.

Packaging

Choose a raw dog food that is packaged in a way that preserves its freshness and nutritional value. Look for products that are vacuum-sealed or frozen, and that have a long shelf life.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best raw dog food for your furry friend that meets their nutritional needs and keeps them healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which raw dog food is recommended for large breed dogs?

When it comes to large breed dogs, it’s important to choose a raw dog food that is specifically formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Look for raw dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as beef, chicken, or turkey, and is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Some of the best raw dog food brands for large breed dogs include Stella -amp; Chewy’s, Primal Pet Foods, and Darwin’s Natural Pet Products.

What are the top-rated raw dog foods for small breeds?

Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a raw dog food that is specifically formulated for their size. Look for raw dog food that is high in protein and contains small, bite-sized pieces that are easy for small dogs to chew and digest. Some of the best raw dog food brands for small breeds include Instinct Raw, Bravo! Raw Diet, and Nature’s Variety.

What frozen raw dog food options are considered the best?

Frozen raw dog food is a convenient and healthy option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a raw diet. Look for frozen raw dog food that is made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Some of the best frozen raw dog food options include Primal Pet Foods, Stella -amp; Chewy’s, and Northwest Naturals.

Can you suggest some high-quality raw dog food recipes?

Making your own raw dog food can be a great way to ensure that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition. Some high-quality raw dog food recipes include a mix of protein sources, such as beef, chicken, and fish, as well as fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and blueberries. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

What is the most suitable raw food for dogs with dietary allergies?

Dogs with dietary allergies require a special diet that is free from the ingredients that trigger their allergies. Look for raw dog food that is made with limited ingredients and is free from common allergens like grains, dairy, and soy. Some of the best raw dog food brands for dogs with dietary allergies include Nature’s Variety, Stella -amp; Chewy’s, and Primal Pet Foods.

How do veterinarians stand on raw dog food diets?

Opinions among veterinarians on raw dog food diets vary. Some believe that raw diets can provide dogs with a more natural and nutrient-dense diet, while others are concerned about the potential risks of feeding dogs raw meat. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet, and to ensure that any raw dog food you feed your pet is made with high-quality, safe ingredients.