Best Raw Food Diet for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Raw food diets for dogs have become increasingly popular in recent years, as pet owners seek out healthier and more natural options for their furry friends. A raw food diet typically consists of uncooked meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables, and is believed to provide dogs with a range of health benefits, including improved digestion, stronger teeth and gums, and a shinier coat.

When it comes to choosing the best raw food diet for your dog, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the quality of the ingredients. Look for products made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, and avoid those that contain fillers, preservatives, or artificial colors and flavors.

Another important consideration is the balance of nutrients in the diet. A well-balanced raw food diet should provide your dog with all of the essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids they need to thrive. It’s also important to ensure that the diet is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

At the end of the day, choosing the best raw food diet for your dog can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. But with a little research and some careful consideration, you can find a high-quality raw food diet that will help keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.

Best Raw Food Diet for Dogs

We understand that choosing the right diet for your furry friend can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best raw food diets for dogs. Raw food diets have become increasingly popular among pet owners as they provide a natural and nutrient-rich alternative to traditional kibble. Our team has extensively researched and tested various raw food diets to bring you the top products on the market. Read on to find the perfect raw food diet for your dog’s needs.

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

We highly recommend Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for pet owners who are looking for a premium, nutrition-packed diet for their furry companions.

Pros

• The freeze-drying process preserves the nutritional integrity of the ingredients and makes it safe to handle and store.
• Made with only the freshest human-grade ingredients, and no fillers, grains, GMOs, unnatural preservatives, soy, added flavorings, or dyes.
• Provides all-natural nutrition for dogs of all life stages, with functional benefits for lasting wellness.

Cons

• Some dog owners may find the coriander smell too strong.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands on the market.
• The 3-pound bag may not be enough for larger breeds or multiple dogs.

Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is a convenient and easy-to-prepare meal that combines the safety, easy prep, and shelf-stable convenience of kibble and canned food with the unsurpassed nutrition offered in real, fresh raw food. Simply add water to make this 3 lb bag into over 18 lbs of raw whole food, ready to serve in minutes.

Made with freeze-dried raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics -amp; prebiotics, this raw, whole food meal provides natural nutrition and functional benefits for lasting wellness. It is perfect for weight management, diabetic support, digestive health, hip and joint support, and skin and coat health.

Nature’s Diet is proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients they use to make Simply Raw, and unlike some other brands, they never put anything into their dog food that isn’t listed on the label. The ingredients are sourced regionally and the meat is humanely raised, making it a thoughtful and sustainable choice for pet owners who care about the health of their dogs and the planet.

In summary, Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is a premium, nutrition-packed dog food that provides all-natural nutrition and functional benefits for lasting wellness. While the coriander smell may be too strong for some dog owners, the freeze-drying process and wholesome ingredients make it a safe and sustainable choice for pet owners who want the best for their furry companions.

Nature’s Diet Raw Mix Kibble with Freeze-Dried Chicken, Superfoods and Probiotics

If you are looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your furry friend, Nature’s Diet Raw Mix Kibble with Freeze-Dried Chicken, Superfoods and Probiotics is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The freeze-drying process preserves the nutritional value of the food while removing moisture and pathogens, making it safe to feed your dog a raw diet.
• The kibble is mixed with all-natural, humanely raised bites of freeze-dried raw chicken, providing superior raw nutrition and unmatched quality food for dogs.
• The food is made in small batches in the USA with regionally sourced ingredients and humanely raised meat, making it a sustainable and thoughtful option for your dog’s diet.

Cons

• The food may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with specific dietary needs or sensitivities.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food options on the market.
• The food may have a strong odor due to the raw chicken, which may be unpleasant for some dog owners.

We have been using Nature’s Diet Raw Mix Kibble with Freeze-Dried Chicken, Superfoods and Probiotics for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and wellbeing. The food is packed with high-quality ingredients and provides all the necessary nutrients for a healthy and balanced diet.

The freeze-drying process ensures that the food is safe to feed your dog a raw diet without any risk of pathogens. The whole pieces of chicken in the food are a cut above the rest, and it’s easy to see the difference. The food is made with honest, transparent labels, and we appreciate that there are no grains, GMOs, unnatural preservatives, soy, added flavorings, or dyes.

While the food may not be suitable for all dogs, it has been a great option for our furry friend. The price point is higher than some other dog food options on the market, but we believe that the quality of the food is worth it. The food may have a strong odor due to the raw chicken, which may be unpleasant for some dog owners, but we have not found it to be an issue.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Diet Raw Mix Kibble with Freeze-Dried Chicken, Superfoods and Probiotics for anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their furry friend.

Nature’s Diet Freeze-Dried Fresh Raw Coated Chicken, Bone Broth -amp; Superfoods Kibble with Probiotics, Prebiotics -amp; Freeze-Dried Chicken Liver

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog, Nature’s Diet Freeze-Dried Fresh Raw Coated Chicken, Bone Broth -amp; Superfoods Kibble with Probiotics, Prebiotics -amp; Freeze-Dried Chicken Liver is worth considering.

Pros

• The raw chicken liver and bone broth coating on every piece of kibble provides superior raw nutrition and quality food for dogs.
• Freeze-dried fresh safe raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet.
• The wholesome, clean ingredients used in Raw Coated kibble are listed on the label, with no grains, GMOs, unnatural preservatives, soy, added flavorings or dyes.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
• The price point is higher than some other brands of dog food.
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew.

We’ve been using Nature’s Diet Freeze-Dried Fresh Raw Coated Chicken, Bone Broth -amp; Superfoods Kibble with Probiotics, Prebiotics -amp; Freeze-Dried Chicken Liver for a few weeks now and have noticed a difference in our dog’s energy levels and coat quality. The raw chicken liver and bone broth coating on every piece of kibble provides superior raw nutrition and quality food for dogs. We also appreciate that the wholesome, clean ingredients used in Raw Coated kibble are listed on the label, with no grains, GMOs, unnatural preservatives, soy, added flavorings or dyes.

While some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble, we’ve found that our dog enjoys it. However, the kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other brands of dog food, but we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Diet Freeze-Dried Fresh Raw Coated Chicken, Bone Broth -amp; Superfoods Kibble with Probiotics, Prebiotics -amp; Freeze-Dried Chicken Liver to anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their dog.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a simple, natural wet dog food to add to your dog’s diet, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option. Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, this wet dog food is a mix-in, topper, or snack that your dog will love.

Pros

• Made with real chicken and duck as the first ingredients
• Contains only 7 natural ingredients
• Crafted without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons

• More expensive than other wet dog food options
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Only comes in one size

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for a few weeks now and have been impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loves the taste and we love that it’s made with real, recognizable ingredients and without any artificial additives.

One of the things we appreciate about this wet dog food is that it’s versatile. We can mix it in with our dog’s dry food for added flavor, use it as a topper to entice him to eat, or just give it to him as a snack. Plus, the small 2 oz. tubs are convenient for portion control and storage.

While Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is more expensive than some other wet dog food options, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, we would recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement to anyone looking for a simple, natural wet dog food to add to their dog’s diet.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Perfect Weight for Healthy Weight -amp; Weight Management, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb Bag Chicken 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help manage your dog’s weight, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food is a great option. With clinically proven results in just 10 weeks, this dog food is formulated with natural ingredients and is a great-tasting meal your grown dog can truly enjoy.

Pros

• Over 70% of adult dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this safe and effective weight management dog food.
• Clinically proven results in just 10 weeks.
• Made with natural ingredients.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste.
• Expensive compared to other dog foods.
• Pellet size may be too small for some larger dogs.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for a few months now, and we have seen a noticeable difference in our dog’s weight. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the food and has not had any digestive issues since switching to this dog food. However, we did notice that the pellet size is quite small, which may not be suitable for larger dogs or dogs that tend to inhale their food.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food to anyone looking for a safe and effective weight management dog food for their furry friend. Keep in mind that it may be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods, but the results are worth it.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Prairie Recipe for Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your furry friend, the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Prairie Recipe for Dogs is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• We love that this recipe is made with humanely sourced poultry, which includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone for optimal nutrition.
• The RawMix feature is a great addition to this recipe, offering whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient-dense kibble with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw.
• With a commitment to quality and sustainable practices, Open Farm sources all of its meat, organ, and bones from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms, providing 100% transparency to trace the origin of every ingredient.

Cons

• The price point may be a bit high for some pet owners.
• Some dogs may take some time to adjust to the new diet.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds.

We’ve been feeding our dog this food for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble is made with high-quality ingredients, and we appreciate the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw.

One thing to note is that the price point may be a bit high for some pet owners, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Additionally, some dogs may take some time to adjust to the new diet, so it’s important to introduce the food gradually.

Overall, we highly recommend the Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Prairie Recipe for Dogs to anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, 25 lb. Bag

This is a great product for those who want to help their dogs maintain a healthy weight. We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food for its breakthrough weight management nutrition that delivers clinically proven results in just 10 weeks.

Pros

• Over 70% of adult dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this safe and effective weight management dog food.
• The natural ingredients with added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids make it a healthy choice for your dog.
• It supports muscle maintenance, so your dog can stay active and healthy.

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

This dog food is formulated with decades of cutting-edge research to provide a great-tasting meal that your grown dog can truly enjoy. The chicken recipe dry dog food is a perfect addition to your adult dog’s bowl, and it’s specially designed to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

Our dog has been on this food for a few weeks now, and we’ve already noticed a difference in his weight. He seems to enjoy the taste, and we feel good knowing that we’re providing him with a healthy meal. The kibble is small enough for him to easily chew, and he seems to digest it well.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food for those looking for a safe and effective weight management dog food. It may be a bit pricey, but the benefits are well worth it.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog, the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, and it’s packed with pasture-raised lamb and bison, which are both high-quality sources of protein.
• The food is protein-rich, with 30% protein, which is 25% more than other brands like BLUE Buffalo Life Protection-Adult, helping to boost energy and maintain lean muscle mass.
• It contains pre and probiotics for easy digestion, which help ensure your pet’s gut is in good shape and their bowel movements are regular.

Cons

• The food is grain-free, which may not be suitable for all dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The price point may be higher than other brands.

We recently tried this food with our dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no issues with digestion. We appreciated that the food was free of fillers and GMOs, and that it was recommended by an in-house holistic vet.

Overall, we would recommend the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their furry friend.

Northwest Naturals Freeze-Dried Beef Dog Food

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious raw food diet for your furry friend, Northwest Naturals Freeze-Dried Beef Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with human-grade, all-natural ingredients
• Bite-sized nuggets are perfect for dogs of all sizes and breeds
• Freeze-dried for convenient storage and travel

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some packages may contain powdery residue at the bottom
• Product is delicate and easily crumbles

We’ve been using this product for a few weeks now and our dog absolutely loves it. The bite-sized nuggets are perfect for training and as a meal topper. We love that it’s made with human-grade ingredients and is all-natural, ensuring that our furry friend is getting the best possible nutrition.

One thing to keep in mind is that this product is on the expensive side compared to other dog foods. Additionally, some packages may contain powdery residue at the bottom, which can be a bit of a hassle to deal with. Lastly, the product is delicate and can easily crumble, so be sure to handle it with care.

Overall, we highly recommend Northwest Naturals Freeze-Dried Beef Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their furry friend.

Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog that can help them maintain a healthy weight, then Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient for high-quality protein
• Contains fat-burning L-Carnitine for healthy metabolism
• Grain-free and made without any artificial colors or preservatives

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw meat pieces
• Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant difference in our dog’s weight and overall health. The high-quality protein from cage-free chicken and the fat-burning L-Carnitine have helped our dog maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing nutrition.

One thing we love about this dog food is that it’s grain-free and made without any artificial colors or preservatives, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dog only the best ingredients.

However, this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be suitable for everyone’s budget. Additionally, some dogs may not be fond of the freeze-dried raw meat pieces, so it may take some time for them to adjust to the taste and texture. Lastly, this dog food is not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies, so make sure to check the ingredients list before purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their dog that can help them maintain a healthy weight.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best raw food diet for your dog, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a raw food diet:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a raw food diet for your dog is the ingredients. Look for a diet that is made with high-quality, whole-food ingredients. Avoid diets that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other additives. Be sure to choose a diet that is appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and activity level.

Nutritional Content

In addition to the ingredients, it’s important to consider the nutritional content of the diet. Look for a diet that provides a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. This will help ensure that your dog is getting all of the nutrients they need to thrive.

Variety

Variety is key when it comes to feeding your dog a raw food diet. Look for a diet that offers a variety of different proteins, such as beef, chicken, and lamb. This will help ensure that your dog gets a wide range of nutrients and doesn’t develop any food sensitivities.

Safety

When feeding your dog a raw food diet, safety is paramount. Look for a diet that is made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients. Be sure to handle the food safely and follow all recommended storage and handling guidelines.

Price

Finally, consider the price when choosing a raw food diet for your dog. While high-quality diets may cost more upfront, they can save you money in the long run by promoting better health and reducing veterinary bills. Look for a diet that fits within your budget and provides the nutritional content your dog needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the potential health benefits of a raw food diet for dogs?

Switching your dog to a raw food diet may provide several health benefits, such as improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, increased energy, and better weight management. Raw food diets also tend to be more nutrient-dense than commercial dog food, providing your dog with a more natural and balanced diet.

How can I prepare a balanced homemade raw food diet for my dog?

It is important to ensure that your dog’s raw food diet is balanced and contains all the necessary nutrients. Consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to create a balanced meal plan for your dog. You can prepare a raw food diet for your dog by including raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. It is important to handle raw meat properly to avoid contamination and foodborne illness.

What are the risks associated with feeding my dog a raw food diet?

Feeding your dog a raw food diet may increase the risk of bacterial contamination and foodborne illness. Raw meat may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can be passed on to your dog. Additionally, raw bones may cause choking, intestinal blockage, or dental fractures. It is important to handle and prepare raw food properly and supervise your dog while they eat.

Are there any scientific studies supporting the raw food diet for dogs?

There is limited scientific research on the benefits and risks of raw food diets for dogs. Some studies suggest that raw food diets may provide health benefits, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist before switching your dog to a raw food diet.

How do I transition my dog to a raw food diet safely?

It is important to transition your dog to a raw food diet gradually to avoid digestive upset. Start by introducing small amounts of raw food into your dog’s diet and gradually increase the amount over several weeks. Monitor your dog’s health and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any signs of digestive upset.

What should I consider when calculating the appropriate portion size for my dog on a raw diet?

The appropriate portion size for your dog on a raw food diet depends on their age, weight, activity level, and overall health. Consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to calculate the appropriate portion size for your dog. It is important to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their portion size as needed.