Best Raw Dog Food Brand: Top Picks for Healthy Canine Nutrition

Raw dog food has gained popularity in recent years as pet owners seek to provide their furry friends with a more natural and nutritious diet. Raw dog food typically consists of uncooked meat, organs, and bones, and sometimes includes fruits and vegetables. The benefits of a raw diet for dogs include improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, and increased energy levels.

When it comes to choosing the best raw dog food brand, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the quality of the ingredients. Look for brands that use high-quality, human-grade meats and organic fruits and vegetables. Another important factor is variety – a good raw dog food brand should offer a range of protein sources to ensure that your dog is getting a balanced diet.

It’s also important to consider the safety of the product. Raw meat can carry harmful bacteria, so it’s essential to choose a brand that uses proper food safety protocols. Look for brands that use high-pressure processing or other methods to eliminate harmful bacteria.

After researching and testing various raw dog food brands, we have identified the top five brands that offer high-quality, nutritious, and safe raw dog food. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth review of each brand, including their ingredients, variety, safety protocols, and customer reviews. Whether you’re new to raw dog food or a seasoned pro, our guide will help you choose the best brand for your furry friend.

Best Raw Dog Food Brands

We understand that choosing the right food for your furry friend can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best raw dog food brands on the market. Our team has done extensive research and testing to ensure that these brands meet our high standards for quality, nutrition, and safety. Whether you’re looking for a specific protein source or a balanced blend of ingredients, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best raw dog food brands.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food, High Protein Real Beef Kibble Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag Beef 2.5 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food brand, Instinct Raw Boost is definitely worth considering. The freeze-dried raw beef pieces mixed with high-protein kibble make for a tasty and nutritious meal that your dog will love.

Pros

• The #1 ingredient is USA-raised beef, which is both high in protein and delicious for your pup.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces provide added nutrition and flavor, while also supporting healthy digestion and skin/coat health.
• The raw boosted kibble is complete and balanced, providing all the necessary nutrients for dogs of all sizes and life stages.

Cons

• This dog food brand is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
• Some dogs may not take to the raw pieces immediately, so it may take some time to transition them to this food.
• The strong odor of the raw pieces may be off-putting to some owners.

We’ve been using Instinct Raw Boost for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The high protein content and raw pieces have made a noticeable difference in her energy levels and digestion.

One thing to note is that this dog food brand is definitely on the pricier side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are well worth the cost.

Another potential downside is that some dogs may not take to the raw pieces immediately. It may take some time to transition them to this food, but once they do, they’ll likely love it.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food brand that will provide your pup with all the necessary nutrients and support their overall health, Instinct Raw Boost is definitely worth considering.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs

We highly recommend Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs for pet parents who are looking to feed their furry friends with a protein-focused, nutrient-dense, and grain-free diet.

Pros

• Crafted with a blend of 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork.
• Meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes, or any byproducts.
• Includes bone broth and freeze dried raw.

Cons

• Only comes in a 20-pound bag, which may not be suitable for all pet parents.
• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.

We have been using Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and well-being. Our dog loves the taste and always finishes his bowl.

The recipe is crafted with a blend of 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork, which makes it a high-quality and nutrient-dense dog food. The inclusion of meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes, or any byproducts makes it an ideal choice for pet parents who are looking to feed their dogs with a protein-focused diet.

What we love most about Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs is that it includes bone broth and freeze dried raw, which delivers optimal taste and nutrition for our furry friend. It is also perfect for pet parents that are seeking to feed animals as they thrive in the wild.

The only downside of this product is that it only comes in a 20-pound bag, which may not be suitable for all pet parents. It is also more expensive compared to other dog food brands. However, we believe that the quality and sustainable practices of Open Farm make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs for pet parents who are looking to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, protein-focused, and nutrient-dense diet.

Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe with Healthy Grains, Freeze Dried Dog Food – 20 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-protein, grain-inclusive dog food that’s infused with freeze-dried raw pieces, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe with Healthy Grains is a great option.

Pros

• Real deboned salmon is the first ingredient, making it a protein-rich dog food.
• Freeze-dried raw-coated kibble and pieces of freeze-dried raw dog food provide dogs with the nutritional benefits they would have discovered in the wild.
• Whole grains help support healthy digestion.

Cons

• Some customers found the bag to be smaller than expected.
• A few customers found the freeze-dried raw pieces to be too hard for their dogs to chew.
• A small number of customers found their dogs didn’t like the flavor.

We’ve been using Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe with Healthy Grains for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loves the taste and we appreciate that it’s made with real deboned salmon as the first ingredient.

One thing we really like about this dog food is that it’s infused with freeze-dried raw pieces. This provides our dog with the nutritional benefits of a raw diet without having to feed him a completely raw diet. We also like that it includes whole grains to support healthy digestion.

While we haven’t personally experienced any issues with the size of the bag or the texture of the freeze-dried raw pieces, we did come across some reviews from customers who did. A few customers found the bag to be smaller than expected, and some found the freeze-dried raw pieces to be too hard for their dogs to chew. Additionally, a small number of customers found their dogs didn’t like the flavor.

Overall, we think Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe with Healthy Grains is a great option for dogs who need a high-protein, grain-inclusive dog food that’s infused with freeze-dried raw pieces. However, as with any dog food, it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food and make adjustments as needed.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dog food that’s made with natural ingredients, Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe might be the right choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient, which makes this food tasty and protein-rich.
• The recipe doesn’t contain any grains, gluten, or fillers, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities.
• The added vitamins, minerals, and taurine can support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of the food, as every pet has unique preferences.
• The kibble size might be too big or too small for some dogs, depending on their breed and size.
• The price of the food might be higher than some other brands, but the quality of the ingredients can justify the cost.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that her coat looks shinier and her energy levels are higher than before.

One thing we like about this food is that it doesn’t have any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, which can be harmful to dogs. The fact that it’s grain-free and gluten-free is also a plus, as it reduces the risk of digestive issues and allergies.

The kibble size is medium, which works well for our dog’s breed, but it might not be suitable for larger or smaller dogs. We also appreciate that the bag has a resealable zipper, which keeps the food fresh and prevents spills.

Overall, we think that Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe is a good choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a wholesome and delicious meal. While it might not be the cheapest option on the market, the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits can make it worth the investment.

Royal Canin Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium dry dog food that’s specially formulated for medium-sized breeds, then Royal Canin Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Precise nutrition for medium-sized breeds
• Supports natural defenses for immune support
• Promotes healthy skin and coat

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble
• Contains some fillers and additives

We’ve been using Royal Canin Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog seems to have more energy, and her coat looks shinier and healthier than ever before.

One thing we really like about this dog food is that it’s tailored specifically to the needs of medium-sized breeds. This means that it contains the right balance of nutrients to support their high-energy lifestyle.

We’re also impressed with the immune support that this dog food provides. The blend of prebiotics and antioxidants helps to support our dog’s natural defenses, which is especially important during cold and flu season.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it contains optimal levels of EPA and DHA, which help to maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. This is great for dogs with sensitive skin or those who are prone to allergies.

While there are a lot of things we like about this dog food, there are a few downsides to consider. For one, it’s more expensive than some other dog food brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble, although our dog seems to enjoy it just fine.

Finally, it’s worth noting that this dog food does contain some fillers and additives, which may not be ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. However, we haven’t noticed any adverse effects on our dog’s digestion since switching to this brand.

Overall, we think Royal Canin Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for medium-sized breeds. It provides precise nutrition, immune support, and healthy skin and coat benefits, all in one convenient package.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Big Life Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand that provides real, nutrient-packed ingredients, then Rachael Ray Nutrish Big Life Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The hearty beef, veggies, and brown rice recipe is made with real ingredients you can see, plus protein and fiber to help keep big dogs full and satisfied.
• The tasty mix of tender, savory pieces and Nourish-Bites nutrient-packed nuggets will keep your dog interested in mealtime.
• Real beef is the #1 ingredient, and the food helps support hip and joint health in adult big dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food and may need to try a different brand.
• The food may be too expensive for some pet owners.
• Some owners may prefer a wet food option for their dogs.

We have been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Big Life Dry Dog Food for our big dog for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The food contains real, high-quality ingredients that we can see, and it provides the necessary nutrients to keep our dog full and satisfied. We appreciate that the food helps support hip and joint health, which is especially important for larger dogs.

One of the things we love about this dog food is the mix of tender, savory pieces and Nourish-Bites nutrient-packed nuggets. Our dog seems to enjoy the variety of textures and flavors, and we feel good knowing that he’s getting a balanced meal. However, we do understand that some dogs may not like the taste of the food and may need to try a different brand.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Big Life Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food brand that provides real, nutrient-packed ingredients. While it may be more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the benefits outweigh the cost.

Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with premium ingredients and sustainable practices, Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with whole meat, non-GMO fruits, and veggies for optimal nutrition
• Highly digestible, making it easier for your furry friend to retain and use more nutrients
• Designed especially for the needs of small breed dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• More expensive than some other brands of dog food
• The small kibble may not be suitable for larger dogs

We have been using Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food for our small dog for several months now and have been impressed with the results. The kibble is smaller in size, making it easier for our dog to eat, and the high-quality ingredients have improved her overall health and wellbeing.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. We also love that it is made with non-GMO fruits and vegetables and supports sustainability through responsible ingredient sourcing.

Another benefit of Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food is that it is highly digestible. Our dog has had digestive issues in the past, but since switching to this food, we have noticed a significant improvement in her digestion and overall health.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the benefits of the premium ingredients and sustainable practices are well worth the cost. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, and the small size may not be suitable for larger dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food for any small breed dog owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and sustainable dog food option.

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small breed dog, Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The food is designed specifically for small dogs, with a highly palatable kibble that’s easy for miniature jaws to chew.
• The food contains optimal levels of fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• The food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small dogs, with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbs.

Cons

• The food is slightly more expensive than some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We’ve been using Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for several months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food and always eagerly eats every last kibble in his bowl. We’ve also noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this food.

One thing we really appreciate about this food is that it’s tailored specifically to small breed dogs. The kibble is small and easy for our dog to chew, and the formula contains the right balance of nutrients to meet his unique nutritional needs. We also like that the food contains optimal levels of fatty acids, which we think has contributed to our dog’s healthy coat.

While the food is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands, we think it’s worth the extra cost for the quality and nutritional value. However, we do acknowledge that some dog owners may find the price point a bit steep.

Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners who want a high-quality, nutritious food for their furry friend.

Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food 16 oz, 1 Pound (Pack of 1)

In our experience, we highly recommend Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food for any dog owner looking for a premium, balanced, and nutritious diet for their furry friend.

Pros

• Made with whole ingredients like real cuts of meat, veggies, and fruit for easier digestion and a healthy immune system.
• Formulated by Dr. Martin Goldstein, who has used his unique nutritional therapy to improve the health and longevity of thousands of dogs.
• Freeze-dried to preserve the nutrients and flavor of the ingredients.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Only available in one size and flavor.

Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend is a premium, freeze-dried raw dog food that is formulated to give your dog the balanced nutrition they need to thrive. We appreciate that each batch is filled with whole ingredients like real cuts of meat, veggies, and fruit, which helps support easier digestion, a healthy immune system, and balanced energy levels for adult dogs of any breed. We also like that the formula is freeze-dried to preserve the nutrients and flavor of the ingredients.

What sets Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend apart is that it is formulated by Dr. Martin Goldstein, who has used his unique nutritional therapy to improve the health and longevity of thousands of dogs. This gives us confidence that we are feeding our dogs a quality product that has been developed by a veterinarian with years of experience.

While we believe that Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend is an excellent choice for dog owners who want to give their furry friends the best possible nutrition, we do acknowledge that it is expensive compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies. Finally, it is only available in one size and flavor, which may not be suitable for all dogs.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a premium, balanced, and nutritious diet for your furry friend, we highly recommend Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food.

Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food 48 oz (3 Bags x 16 oz)

If you want to provide your dog with a healthy, balanced diet, Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with a variety of meats and fish for balanced nutrition
• Freeze-dried to lock in flavor and nutrition
• All-natural and free of chemicals and fillers

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of freeze-dried food

We recently tried Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The food is made with a variety of meats, including ranch-raised beef and duck, as well as fish and other protein sources. It also includes fruits and vegetables for added nutrition.

One of the benefits of freeze-dried dog food is that it retains its flavor and nutritional value, and Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend is no exception. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we noticed that his coat was shinier and he had more energy after eating it regularly.

However, it’s important to note that this dog food is on the expensive side compared to other brands. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions or allergies, you may need to consult with your vet before feeding them this food. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of freeze-dried food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction.

Overall, we would recommend Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that provides balanced nutrition.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best raw dog food brand, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting the right product for your furry friend:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the ingredients. Look for a brand that uses high-quality, human-grade ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the brand you choose provides a balanced and complete diet for your dog. Look for products that meet the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for dog food. These standards ensure that the food contains all the necessary nutrients required for a healthy diet.

Protein Content

Dogs are carnivores and require a high protein diet. Look for a brand that contains at least 18% protein for adult dogs and at least 22% protein for puppies.

Price

Raw dog food can be expensive, so it’s important to consider the price when selecting a brand. Compare the cost per pound of different products to determine which one fits your budget.

Brand Reputation

Research the brand’s reputation and read customer reviews to ensure that the product is safe and effective. Look for a brand that has a good track record and has been in business for a while.

In summary, when choosing the best raw dog food brand, consider the ingredients, nutritional value, protein content, price, and brand reputation. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a product that provides a healthy and balanced diet for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated frozen raw dog food options currently available?

There are several high-quality frozen raw dog food options available in the market. Some of the top-rated brands include Primal Pet Foods, Stella -amp; Chewy’s, and Nature’s Variety. These brands offer a variety of protein sources and formulations to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Which raw dog food brands are recommended for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than smaller dogs. Some of the raw dog food brands that are recommended for large breed dogs include Orijen, Acana, and Blue Buffalo. These brands offer formulations that are high in protein and fat to support the growth and development of large breed dogs.

Can you suggest the best raw dog food choices for small breed dogs?

Small breed dogs require a diet that is rich in protein and fat to support their high energy levels. Some of the best raw dog food choices for small breed dogs include Stella -amp; Chewy’s, Primal Pet Foods, and Instinct. These brands offer small kibble sizes and formulations that are high in protein and fat to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed dogs.

What are some homemade raw dog food recipes that provide balanced nutrition?

Homemade raw dog food recipes can provide balanced nutrition for dogs if they are formulated correctly. Some popular recipes include a mix of raw meat, vegetables, and fruits. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist before switching to a homemade raw diet to ensure that your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients.

Which raw dog food options are best for dogs with food allergies?

Dogs with food allergies require a special diet that excludes certain ingredients. Some raw dog food brands that are recommended for dogs with food allergies include Primal Pet Foods, Stella -amp; Chewy’s, and Nature’s Variety. These brands offer limited ingredient formulations that are free from common allergens such as grains, soy, and dairy.

Is there a consensus among veterinarians regarding the feeding of raw food to dogs?

There is no consensus among veterinarians regarding the feeding of raw food to dogs. Some veterinarians believe that raw diets can provide health benefits for dogs, while others are concerned about the risk of bacterial contamination and nutrient deficiencies. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian before switching to a raw diet to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your dog.