Best Raw Food Diet for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Feeding your furry friend a raw food diet has become increasingly popular in recent years. Raw food diets for dogs consist of uncooked meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables, and are believed to provide numerous health benefits. Proponents of raw food diets claim that they can improve a dog’s coat, skin, digestion, and overall health. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of raw food diet for your dog’s specific needs.

When choosing the best raw food diet for your dog, it’s crucial to consider factors such as their age, breed, activity level, and any health conditions they may have. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the raw food diet you choose is nutritionally complete and balanced, providing all the necessary vitamins and minerals your dog needs to thrive.

One critical factor to consider when choosing a raw food diet for your dog is the source of the ingredients. It’s crucial to select high-quality, human-grade ingredients that are free from additives, preservatives, and other harmful substances. You’ll also want to choose a raw food diet that is appropriate for your dog’s size and weight.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various raw food diets for dogs to identify the best options on the market. We’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and choose the best raw food diet for your furry friend.

Best Raw Food Diet for Dogs

We understand that choosing the right diet for your furry friend can be a daunting task. However, a raw food diet for dogs has been gaining popularity among pet owners due to its numerous benefits. Raw food diets can improve your dog’s skin and coat, boost their energy levels, and promote better digestion. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best raw food diets for dogs that are available on Amazon. Our team has thoroughly researched and tested these products to ensure that they meet our high standards. Read on to find the perfect raw food diet for your beloved pet.

Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal – Makes 18 Lbs Fresh Raw Food with Muscle, Organ, Bone Broth, Whole Egg, Superfoods, Fish Oil Omega 3, 6, 9, Probiotics -amp; Prebiotics (Beef)

If you’re looking for a nutritious and convenient raw food diet for your furry friend, Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Simply Raw combines the safety, easy prep and shelf stable convenience of kibble and canned food with the unsurpassed nutrition offered in real, fresh raw food.
• Made with only the freshest human grade ingredients, Simply Raw is designed to support holistic health and provide functional benefits for lasting wellness.
• Freeze-Drying is a natural food preservation process which removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food. Freeze-Dried Raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the strong coriander smell.
• It’s more expensive than some other brands.
• It’s not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.

We’ve been using Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the product. Simply Raw is made with real, whole food ingredients you can see, and it’s easy to prepare – just add water and it’s ready to serve in minutes.

One thing we love about this product is that it’s made with only the freshest human grade ingredients. Every ingredient is chosen with care to support holistic health and provide functional benefits for lasting wellness. We also appreciate that Nature’s Diet is proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients they use to make Simply Raw – unlike some other brands, they never put anything into their dog food that isn’t listed on the label. No fillers, no grains, no GMOs, no unnatural preservatives, no soy, no added flavorings or dyes. Just honest, raw, whole food nutrition.

Another thing we love about Simply Raw is that it’s shelf stable, safe to handle -amp; easy to store. Freeze-Drying is a natural food preservation process which removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food. Freeze-Dried Raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet. We also appreciate that Simply Raw is made lovingly in small batches in the USA with regionally sourced ingredients -amp; humanely raised meat. Real food for healthy dogs and a healthier planet.

On the downside, some dogs may not like the strong coriander smell of Simply Raw. It’s also more expensive than some other brands, which may be a consideration for some pet owners. Additionally, it’s not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal to anyone who wants to provide their dog with a nutritious and convenient raw food diet. It’s made with high-quality ingredients, easy to prepare, and safe for your furry friend to eat.

Earth Animal Daily Raw Cat Food -amp; Raw Dog Food Topper | Complete Cat -amp; Dog Vitamins Supplement| 1 Pound

If you’re looking for a natural and healthy way to supplement your furry friend’s raw food diet, Earth Animal Daily Raw Cat Food -amp; Raw Dog Food Topper is a great option.

Pros

• Provides essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and omega 3, 6 -amp; 9’s for your pet’s health
• Helps balance nutrients for whole body health
• Made with natural ingredients from the US and around the world, and is NASC approved

Cons

• Some people may not like the smell of the supplement
• Some may find the vitamin smell stronger in the newer containers
• May not be suitable for pets with allergies to some of the ingredients

We’ve been using Earth Animal Daily Raw Cat Food -amp; Raw Dog Food Topper for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our pets’ overall health and well-being. The supplement is easy to use, just scoop and pour onto your pet’s food. It mixes well and our pets seem to love the taste.

One of the things we like most about this supplement is that it provides a range of essential nutrients for our pets. It contains vitamins, minerals, fiber, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and omega 3, 6 -amp; 9’s, which are all important for maintaining good health.

Another benefit of this supplement is that it helps balance nutrients for whole body health. We’ve noticed that our pets have more energy and better digestion since we started using this product.

The supplement is made with natural ingredients from the US and around the world, and is NASC approved. We feel good about giving our pets a product that is made with high-quality, natural ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend Earth Animal Daily Raw Cat Food -amp; Raw Dog Food Topper to anyone looking for a natural and healthy way to supplement their pet’s raw food diet. It’s easy to use, provides essential nutrients, and helps balance nutrients for whole body health.

Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Raw Protein Mix-in Dog Food Topper

If you’re looking for a raw food diet for your dog, we highly recommend the Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Raw Protein Mix-in Dog Food Topper. It’s packed with premium protein that is responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to support your dog’s overall health and wellness.

Pros

• Provides superior protein for your dog’s health and vitality
• Responsibly sourced and humanely harvested
• Whole animal protein from muscle, organs, and bone marrow for lean, strong muscles and energy

Cons

• May not be affordable for everyone
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Requires additional preparation time compared to traditional kibble

We’ve personally used this product for our own dogs and have seen noticeable improvements in their overall health and energy levels. The whole animal protein from muscle, organs, and bone marrow provides lean, strong muscles and energy, digestive health, and clean teeth and gums in every bowl.

One of the biggest benefits of this product is the superior protein it provides compared to industry standards. The butcher cut raw taps into the protein-rich natural ingredients of muscle, organs, and marrow to deliver more energetic playtimes, shinier coats, leaner muscles, and better overall health.

Additionally, we appreciate that all of the raw dried dog food is responsibly sourced and humanely harvested. The slow-freeze-dry process removes moisture to lock in vitamins without cooking, ensuring peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness.

However, we understand that the price point may not be affordable for everyone and some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the product. It also requires additional preparation time compared to traditional kibble.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog, we highly recommend giving the Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Raw Protein Mix-in Dog Food Topper a try.

Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food

If you’re considering switching to a raw food diet for your furry friend, you might want to try out the Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food.

Pros

• This dog food is packed with high-quality protein ingredients to help maintain lean body mass and muscle tone.
• It contains guaranteed levels of glucosamine for strong joints, probiotics for digestive health, omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and taurine for a healthy heart.
• The recipe is made with wholesome, non-GMO ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits.

Cons

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

We recently switched to this dog food for our small breed dog and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The protein-packed, nutrient-dense kibble combined with 100% raw freeze-dried turkey pieces has helped him maintain a healthy weight and muscle tone. We also appreciate that the recipe is grain-free and contains no poultry by-products, wheat, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried turkey pieces, but we found that our dog loves them. Additionally, the kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew, so it’s important to monitor their eating habits.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food for those looking to switch to a raw food diet for their furry friend.

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

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

Pros

• The raw chicken meat mixed with high protein, grain-free superfood kibble provides superior raw nutrition and unmatched quality food for dogs.
• The freeze-dried fresh safe raw food preservation process removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet.
• The all-natural safe raw nutrition ensures that there are no grains, GMOs, unnatural preservatives, soy, added flavorings or dyes in the dog food.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the raw chicken meat.
• The product is only available in one size.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.

We recently tried Nature’s Diet Raw Mix Kibble with Freeze-Dried Chicken, Superfoods and Probiotics for our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The freeze-dried raw meat pieces were easy to see and the kibble was high in protein and grain-free. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no digestive issues.

One thing to note is that the raw chicken meat may not be to every dog’s liking, so it’s important to introduce the food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the product is only available in one size, so it may not be the most cost-effective option for those with larger dogs.

Overall, we recommend Nature’s Diet Raw Mix Kibble with Freeze-Dried Chicken, Superfoods and Probiotics for those looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their dog. It’s made with all-natural, safe raw nutrition and is a great option for those who prioritize the quality of ingredients in their dog’s food.

Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dog -amp; Cats – Chicken Recipe, 1-lb Rolls (20 Pack) – Fresh Dog Food Made in USA, Natural Raw Diet Dog Food, Raw Frozen Dog Food -amp; Cat Food – Meat Roll Dog Food Log

If you’re looking for a highly nutritious raw diet for your furry friend, Raw Paws chicken dog food roll is a great option. Our natural chicken dog food and chicken cat food follow the 80/10/10 rule, imitating your pet’s natural, species-appropriate diet. It contains all the protein, vitamins, and minerals your pet needs. Raw Paws cat food grain-free chicken recipe offers your pets the nutrition you love, and the taste of chicken dogs and cats love.

Pros

• Made with healthy, free-range raw chicken
• Easy to serve and store
• Fully digestible for sensitive stomachs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Can be expensive for larger dogs
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions

We’ve been using Raw Paws chicken dog food roll for a while now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the product. The chicken is sourced from humanely raised chickens on local Indiana family farms, making it a healthy and ethical choice for your pets.

The 1-lb chicken dog food roll is easy and convenient to handle, serve, and store. Simply thaw our soft chicken dog food and serve as needed or partially thaw in the fridge and cut into portions with a serrated knife. Refreeze extra portions of this natural chicken cat food and dog food or form into patties for future feedings. This chicken recipe dog food is ideally sized to make rotating proteins for your pets simple.

Raw Paws fully digestible raw chicken cat food and dog food is a great source of vitamin B6, which helps regulate digestion, and is free of unnecessary and unhealthy ingredients like fillers or byproducts. If your pet has a sensitive stomach or is prone to allergies, try Raw Paws fully digestible raw chicken cat food and dog food.

Overall, we highly recommend Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dog -amp; Cats – Chicken Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and nutritious raw diet.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 4 lb. Bag Chicken 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog, we highly recommend the Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• The #1 ingredient is cage-free chicken, which provides a high-quality source of protein for your dog.
• This dog food is grain-free and made without any artificial colors or preservatives, making it a healthy choice for your furry friend.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces provide added nutrition and a delicious taste that your dog will love.

Cons

• This dog food can be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces and may pick them out of the kibble.
• The strong odor of the food may be off-putting to some pet owners.

We have been using this dog food for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The high-quality ingredients and added nutrition of the freeze-dried raw pieces make this a great choice for any dog owner looking to provide their furry friend with a healthy, balanced diet.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food can be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and added nutrition make it well worth the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend the Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food to any dog owner looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their furry friend.

Open Farm RawMix Ancient Grains Prairie Recipe for Dogs

We highly recommend purchasing the Open Farm RawMix Ancient Grains Prairie Recipe for Dogs for its high-quality ingredients and great taste.

Pros

• Crafted with a blend of 100% animal welfare certified chicken and turkey
• Includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with non-GMO grains, fruits, and veggies
• Offers whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient-dense, kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Some customers have received damaged packages
• Not all pet stores carry this product

We were impressed with the quality and sustainability practices of Open Farm. All the meat, organ, and bones included in these recipes are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms, which is a huge plus for us. We also appreciate the transparency of the company, as they provide owners with the ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag.

Our furry friends loved the taste of this raw food diet, and we noticed a significant improvement in their overall health and energy levels. It’s perfect for pet parents that are seeking to feed animals as they thrive in the wild, with protein-focused diets, and the convenient, added nutrient of freeze-dried raw.

We recommend giving the Open Farm RawMix Ancient Grains Prairie Recipe for Dogs a try if you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your furry friend.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog, Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Humanely sourced meat from animal welfare certified farms
• Includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes or any byproducts
• Provides optimal taste and nutrition for your pet

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Only comes in a 3.5-pound bag
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this product for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality and sustainability of the ingredients. The meat, organ, and bones used in these recipes are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms, ensuring that your pet is getting the best possible nutrition while also supporting family farms and the environment.

One thing we loved about this product is the RawMix feature, which offers whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient-dense kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw. This makes it perfect for pet parents that are seeking to feed animals as they thrive in the wild, with protein-focused diets, and the convenient, added nutrient of freeze-dried raw.

However, this product is on the more expensive side compared to other dog food brands, and it only comes in a 3.5-pound bag, which may not be suitable for larger dogs. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making the switch.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog that is sustainably sourced and provides optimal nutrition, Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Nature’s Diet Raw Coated Kibble

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food diet for your dog, Nature’s Diet Raw Coated Kibble is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The raw chicken liver and bone broth coating on every piece of kibble provides superior raw nutrition and unmatched quality food for dogs.
• The freeze-dried fresh safe raw food preservation process removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet.
• The all-natural safe raw nutrition is honest and transparent, with wholesome, clean ingredients that are listed on the label.

Cons

• The kibble may be a bit too hard for some dogs, especially those with dental issues or sensitive teeth.
• The price point may be a bit higher than some other dog food brands on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble, although this is a matter of personal preference.

We’ve been using Nature’s Diet Raw Coated Kibble for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and well-being. The kibble is packed with high-quality ingredients that provide all the essential nutrients and vitamins that our dog needs to thrive.

One of the things we love about this product is the raw chicken liver and bone broth coating on every piece of kibble. This provides superior raw nutrition and unmatched quality food for dogs, which is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being.

Another great feature of this product is the freeze-dried fresh safe raw food preservation process. This removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet. We feel confident that we’re providing our dog with the best possible nutrition with this product.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Diet Raw Coated Kibble for anyone looking for a high-quality raw food diet for their dog. It’s a bit pricier than some other brands, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits are well worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When choosing a raw food diet for your dog, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that you are getting the best product for your furry friend. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a raw food diet:

Ingredients

The first thing to look for when choosing a raw food diet is the quality of the ingredients. Make sure that the product you choose contains high-quality, human-grade ingredients that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Look for products that use whole foods and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products.

Nutritional Content

It’s important to choose a raw food diet that provides your dog with all the nutrients they need to thrive. Look for products that provide a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. You may also want to consider products that contain added supplements, such as probiotics or omega-3 fatty acids.

Price

Raw food diets can vary in price, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a product. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper option, it’s important to remember that the quality of the ingredients and nutritional content can vary greatly between products. It may be worth spending a little extra to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product that will benefit your dog’s health in the long run.

Brand Reputation

Finally, it’s important to choose a brand with a good reputation for quality and safety. Look for brands that have been in business for a while and have a history of producing high-quality products. You may also want to check for any recalls or safety concerns associated with the brand before making a purchase.

By considering these factors, you can choose a raw food diet that will provide your dog with the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A raw food diet for dogs has several health benefits, including improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, better dental health, and increased energy levels. It can also help reduce the risk of certain health problems like obesity, allergies, and joint issues.

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

It’s important to transition your dog to a raw food diet gradually to avoid any digestive issues. Start by introducing small amounts of raw food alongside their regular diet, and gradually increase the ratio of raw food to kibble or canned food over several weeks. Consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes.

What are the risks associated with feeding dogs a raw diet?

Feeding dogs a raw diet can increase the risk of bacterial infections like salmonella and E. coli. It can also be challenging to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced and meets all of your dog’s dietary needs. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian and follow safe handling and preparation practices to minimize these risks.

Can a raw food diet meet all the nutritional needs of my dog?

Yes, a raw food diet can meet all of your dog’s nutritional needs if it’s properly balanced and includes all the necessary nutrients. Consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog’s diet is nutritionally complete.

What ingredients are essential for a balanced raw dog food recipe?

A balanced raw dog food recipe should include a variety of protein sources, such as muscle meat, organ meat, and bone. It should also include some fruits and vegetables for added vitamins and minerals, as well as a source of healthy fats like fish oil or coconut oil. Consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog’s diet is properly balanced.

How should I determine the appropriate portion sizes for my dog on a raw food diet?

Portion sizes for a raw food diet will depend on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and overall health. Consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to determine the appropriate portion sizes for your dog. It’s important to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their portion sizes as needed to maintain a healthy weight.