Best Raw Dog Food for Optimal Health

Raw dog food has become increasingly popular among dog owners in recent years. Unlike traditional kibble or canned food, raw dog food is made from fresh, uncooked ingredients and is often considered a more natural and nutritious option for our furry friends. Raw dog food can come in many forms, including frozen patties, dehydrated mixes, and even DIY recipes.

When it comes to choosing the best raw dog food, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to ensure that the food is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific dietary needs. This may involve consulting with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to determine the appropriate balance of protein, fat, and other nutrients for your dog.

Another important consideration when choosing raw dog food is the quality of the ingredients. Look for brands that use high-quality, human-grade meats and vegetables, and avoid those that contain fillers, preservatives, or artificial additives. Additionally, it’s important to choose a brand that has undergone rigorous testing for safety and quality control.

At our site, we’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various brands of raw dog food to identify the best options on the market. Our team of experts has evaluated each brand based on factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional balance, and safety, to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best raw dog food available.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into our top picks for the best raw dog food, including frozen patties, dehydrated mixes, and DIY recipes. Whether you’re looking for a convenient and nutritious option for your busy lifestyle or prefer to make your own raw dog food at home, we’ve got you covered.

Best Raw Dog Food

We know how important it is to give our furry friends the best possible nutrition. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various raw dog food options to bring you this roundup of the best products on the market. Raw dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its many benefits, including improved digestion, healthier coat and skin, and increased energy levels. Below are our top picks for the best raw dog food products that are sure to keep your pup happy and healthy.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is grain-free and includes freeze-dried raw beef, then Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• The first raw boosted kibble that combines high protein, grain-free dog food with freeze-dried raw dog food toppers in one bag.
• Made with the pure, real nutrition of raw ingredients that are natural, protein-packed, and minimally processed.
• Suitable for all life stages, including small breeds, toy breeds, puppy, senior, and healthy weight.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the beef flavor.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.
• The strong odor of the food may be unpleasant for some owners.

We have been using Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food for our dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The combination of high-quality kibble and freeze-dried raw beef has helped to improve his digestion and coat health.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it is made with real, whole food ingredients that are minimally processed. The beef is raised in the USA, and the food is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world.

Another great feature of this dog food is that it is suitable for all life stages, including small breeds, toy breeds, puppy, senior, and healthy weight. This makes it a great option for households with multiple dogs of different ages and sizes.

The only downside to this dog food is that some dogs may not like the taste of the beef flavor. Additionally, the price may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the benefits of the high-quality ingredients are well worth it.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that includes freeze-dried raw beef and is suitable for all life stages.

Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, protein-packed dog food, then Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The combination of kibble and freeze-dried lamb pieces makes this dog food incredibly savory and satisfying for your pup.
• This dog food is made with high-quality protein ingredients that help promote leaner body mass and muscle tone.
• The guaranteed levels of glucosamine, probiotics, omega fatty acids, and taurine in this dog food help support your dog’s digestive health, skin and coat, and heart health.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried lamb pieces.
• The kibble pieces in this dog food are quite large, which may not be suitable for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we’re incredibly impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste and always looks forward to mealtime. We’ve noticed that he has more energy and seems to be maintaining a healthy weight.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and excellent nutritional profile make it well worth the extra cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-packed dog food that will help keep their furry friend healthy and happy.

Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium raw dog food that’s formulated to give your dog the balanced nutrition they need to thrive, Dr. Marty’s Premium Freeze-Dried Dog Food is a great option. Made with whole ingredients like real cuts of meat, veggies, and fruit, this dog food is designed to support easier digestion, a healthy immune system, and balanced energy levels for adult dogs of any breed.

Pros

• Made with whole ingredients, including real cuts of meat, veggies, and fruit
• Supports easier digestion, a healthy immune system, and balanced energy levels
• Formulated by Dr. Martin Goldstein, a veterinarian with over four decades of experience in nutritional therapy for dogs

Cons

• Expensive compared to some other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food
• Only available in one size and flavor

We recently tried Dr. Marty’s Premium Freeze-Dried Dog Food with our own dogs, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value of the product. The food is easy to prepare – simply add water and wait a few minutes for it to rehydrate – and our dogs seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food.

One of the things we liked most about this dog food is that it’s made with whole ingredients, including real cuts of meat, veggies, and fruit. This means that our dogs were getting a balanced and nutritious diet that was easy for them to digest. We also appreciated that the food is formulated by Dr. Martin Goldstein, a veterinarian with over four decades of experience in nutritional therapy for dogs. This gave us confidence that we were feeding our dogs a high-quality product that was backed by science and research.

However, we did find that the food is quite expensive compared to some other dog foods on the market. This may be a concern for pet owners who are on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we would recommend Dr. Marty’s Premium Freeze-Dried Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, raw dog food that’s formulated to support their dog’s health and wellbeing. While it may be more expensive than some other dog foods, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value of the product make it a worthwhile investment.

Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food, Surf -amp; Turf Recipe

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious raw dog food, Open Farm’s Surf -amp; Turf Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This recipe is packed with high-quality protein from 100% pasture-raised raw beef and wild-caught salmon.
• It contains organic veggies and superfoods to support your dog’s overall health.
• You can use it as a complete meal or a tasty topper for your dog’s kibble.

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to some other dog foods on the market.
• The small pouch size may not be ideal for larger dogs or those who eat a lot.
• Some customers have reported quality issues with recent batches of the product.

We recently tried Open Farm’s Surf -amp; Turf Recipe with our own dogs, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste. Our dogs loved the meaty flavor, and we appreciated the fact that the recipe contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.

One of the things we really liked about this product is that it’s versatile. You can use it as a complete meal for your dog or mix it in with their kibble for a meaty boost of flavor. You can even rehydrate the nuggets with a bit of water to create a soft and moist texture that your dog will love.

Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s packed with superfoods and organic veggies. We felt good knowing that our dogs were getting a balanced and nutritious diet that would support their overall health and well-being.

While this product is a bit pricey compared to some other dog foods on the market, we think it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food that your dog will love. Just be aware that the small pouch size may not be ideal for larger dogs or those who eat a lot.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm’s Surf -amp; Turf Recipe for any dog owner who wants to give their furry friend a nutritious and delicious meal.

ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete

If you’re looking for a premium raw dog food that’s packed with essential nutrients, then ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Nutrient-packed formula with high-quality pork, fresh fruits, and vegetables
• Supports overall health, energy, digestion, coat, and longevity
• Can be used as a mixer to boost your dog’s current food

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with pork allergies
• Some customers have reported inconsistencies in the product’s quality

We’ve tried ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete with our own dogs and have found it to be a great addition to their diet. The freeze-dried raw pork provides high-quality protein to support our dogs’ organs and muscles, while the fresh fruits and vegetables offer a range of antioxidants and fiber to promote healthy eyesight, digestion, and mobility.

One of the best things about Nutra Complete is its versatility. You can use it as a standalone food or as a mixer to supplement your dog’s current diet. We’ve found that it’s a great way to add some extra nutrition to our dogs’ meals without having to switch to an entirely new food.

However, it’s worth noting that Nutra Complete is more expensive compared to other dog foods on the market. Additionally, if your dog has a pork allergy, this may not be the best choice for them. Some customers have also reported inconsistencies in the product’s quality, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any issues.

Overall, we would recommend ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete to anyone looking for a premium raw dog food that’s packed with essential nutrients. While it may be more expensive than other options, we think the benefits are worth it for the health and wellbeing of our furry friends.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Crafted with 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork
• Whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient dense, kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze dried raw
• Sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms

Cons

• On the expensive side
• Only available in a 20lb bag
• Some customers reported their dogs getting sick after consuming this product

We’ve been feeding our dog the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for a few months now and have been really impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The blend of grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork provides a great source of protein for our dog, and we love that the recipe includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes or any byproducts.

One thing we really appreciate about this product is that it offers whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient dense, kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze dried raw. This provides optimal taste and nutrition for our pet, and we feel good knowing that we’re feeding him a high-quality raw diet.

We also appreciate that Open Farm sources all of their meat, organ and bones from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms. This ensures that the ingredients are of the highest quality and that the animals are treated humanely.

Overall, we highly recommend the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for pet parents seeking to feed their animals a high-quality raw diet. While it is on the expensive side and only available in a 20lb bag, we feel that the benefits of this product are well worth the cost.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend

If you’re looking for a high-quality, raw dog food that’s packed with superfoods and nutrients, Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Crafted with a unique blend of responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods, SuperBlends help your dog thrive.
• Made with bone broth and raw-coated for maximum flavor, SuperBlends offer an irresistible taste that your pup is sure to love.
• SuperBlends recipes are oven-baked in small batches, helping preserve all the nutrients your pup needs to stay healthy and strong.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the SuperBlends recipes, as they are raw-coated and may have a different texture than other kibble.
• SuperBlends may be more expensive than other dog food brands, due to the high-quality ingredients and small-batch baking process.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging of SuperBlends, such as broken bags or missing pieces of kibble.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend for several months now, and we’re very impressed with the quality and nutrition of this dog food. Our dog loves the taste of the raw-coated kibble, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health since switching to SuperBlends.

One of the things we love about SuperBlends is the variety of superfoods and nutrients included in each recipe. With ingredients like organic blueberries, chia seeds, and dried kelp, we feel confident that our dog is getting all the vitamins and minerals he needs to stay healthy and strong.

Another great feature of SuperBlends is the small-batch baking process. This ensures that each bag of kibble is packed with all the nutrients and flavor your dog needs, without any added fillers or preservatives.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend to any dog owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that’s packed with superfoods and flavor.

360 Pet Nutrition Freeze Dried Raw Complete Meal for Adult Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that’s packed with nutrients, look no further than the 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze Dried Raw Complete Meal for Adult Dogs.

Pros

• Supports overall health with carefully sourced animal protein and nourishing fruits and vegetables
• Nutrient-dense with omega-3 fats to promote joint comfort, muscle strength, and a shiny coat
• Made in the USA with no added grains, cereals, fillers, or artificial preservatives

Cons

• May be a bit pricey for some budgets
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Can be a bit dry and difficult to rehydrate

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now and have been impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier-looking, and he seems to have more energy and vitality. We appreciate that the food is made from pure, natural ingredients and is freeze-dried raw, which helps to preserve the nutrients and flavors.

One thing to keep in mind is that the food can be a bit dry and may take some time to rehydrate properly. Some dogs may also take some time to get used to the taste and texture. However, we think that the health benefits of this food are well worth the investment.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that’s packed with nutrients and made in the USA, we highly recommend the 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze Dried Raw Complete Meal for Adult Dogs.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food might be a good option for you.

Pros

• Made with a variety of meats, fish, and other protein sources for complete nutrition
• Freeze-dried to lock in flavor and nutrition
• All-natural and free of chemicals and fillers

Cons

• Expensive
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We recently tried Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food with our pups, and we were impressed by the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the freeze-dried format. The food is made with a variety of meats, fish, and other protein sources, as well as fruits and vegetables, to provide complete nutrition for your dog. We appreciated that the food is all-natural and free of chemicals and fillers, so we felt good about feeding it to our dogs.

One of the benefits of this dog food is that it’s freeze-dried, which means that the ingredients are gently dried to lock in flavor and nutrition. This makes it easy to store and transport, and it’s also convenient to prepare – simply add water to rehydrate the food. We found that our dogs enjoyed the taste and texture of the food, and they seemed to have plenty of energy and vitality after eating it.

However, it’s worth noting that this dog food is quite expensive compared to some other options on the market. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this food may not be suitable for them. Some dogs may also 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 recommend Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, all-natural raw dog food. While it may be pricey, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the freeze-dried format make it a worthwhile investment in your dog’s health and well-being.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs

We highly recommend the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs. This dog food is a great option for pet parents seeking to feed their pets as they thrive in the wild, with protein-focused diets, and the convenient, added nutrient of freeze-dried raw.

Pros

• The recipe includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes, or any byproducts.
• The RawMix recipe offers whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient-dense kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw.
• The meat, organ, and bones included in these recipes are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms, making it a sustainable and quality option.

Cons

• The price may be on the expensive side for some pet parents.
• The kibble itself is still high in carbohydrates and lacks any substantial fruits and vegetables.
• The 22-pound bag may not be ideal for pet parents with multiple dogs or larger breeds.

We have been feeding our furry friend the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs for a few months now and have noticed a significant difference in her coat and energy levels. The recipe includes a blend of 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork, which makes us feel good about the quality of the ingredients.

We appreciate the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw, which provide optimal taste and nutrition for our pet. The fact that the meat, organ, and bones are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms also aligns with our values of sustainability and quality.

While the price may be on the expensive side, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the added benefits make it worth the investment. However, the 22-pound bag may not be ideal for pet parents with multiple dogs or larger breeds.

Overall, we highly recommend the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs for pet parents seeking a sustainable and quality option for their furry friends.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best raw dog food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for when making your decision:

Ingredient Quality

The quality of ingredients in your dog’s food is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Look for products that use high-quality, human-grade ingredients and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products. Additionally, it’s important to choose a product that contains a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to ensure your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients.

Nutritional Value

When selecting a raw dog food, it’s important to ensure that it meets all of your pet’s nutritional needs. This includes providing a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Be sure to check the label for a complete nutritional breakdown and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Safety and Handling

Raw dog food can pose a health risk if not handled and stored properly. Look for products that are packaged and stored in a way that minimizes the risk of contamination. Additionally, it’s important to follow all handling and storage instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the safety of both you and your pet.

Price and Availability

Raw dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so it’s important to consider the cost when making your decision. However, it’s important to remember that the quality of ingredients and nutritional value can also impact the price. Additionally, it’s important to choose a product that is readily available to ensure that you can consistently provide your pet with a healthy diet.

By considering these important factors and doing your research, you can choose the best raw dog food for your furry friend and ensure their health and well-being for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the nutritional requirements for small and large breed dogs when feeding raw food?

When feeding raw food to your dog, it is important to ensure that they are receiving a balanced and complete diet. Small and large breed dogs have different nutritional requirements, and it is important to take these into consideration when choosing a raw food diet. Small breed dogs require higher amounts of protein and fat, while large breed dogs require more carbohydrates and fiber. We recommend consulting with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the specific nutritional needs of your dog.

How do I safely handle and prepare raw food for my dog?

Handling and preparing raw food for your dog requires proper sanitation and food safety practices. It is important to wash your hands and any surfaces that come into contact with the raw food. We recommend thawing frozen raw food in the refrigerator, and using separate utensils and cutting boards for raw and cooked food. It is also important to feed the raw food to your dog within a few hours of preparation to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

What are the top-rated frozen raw dog food brands?

There are many high-quality frozen raw dog food brands on the market. Some of the top-rated brands include Primal, Stella -amp; Chewy’s, and Nature’s Variety. These brands offer a variety of protein sources and nutrient-dense formulas to meet the nutritional needs of your dog.

Can raw dog food recipes be tailored for dogs with allergies?

Yes, raw dog food recipes can be tailored to meet the specific dietary needs of dogs with allergies. Many raw food brands offer limited ingredient formulas that are free from common allergens such as grains, chicken, and beef. Additionally, homemade raw food recipes can be customized to include alternative protein sources such as venison or duck.

What benefits does a raw food diet offer over traditional kibble for dogs?

Raw food diets offer many potential benefits for dogs, including improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, and increased energy levels. Raw food diets are also free from fillers and artificial additives that are commonly found in traditional kibble. However, it is important to note that raw food diets may not be suitable for all dogs, and consulting with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist is recommended.

What do veterinarians say about the raw food diet for dogs?

Opinions on the raw food diet for dogs vary among veterinarians. Some veterinarians believe that raw food diets can provide many health benefits for dogs, while others are concerned about the potential risks of bacterial contamination and nutrient imbalances. It is important to discuss the raw food diet with your veterinarian and make an informed decision that is best for your dog’s individual needs.