Best Raw Food for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Feeding your furry friend a raw food diet has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many pet owners are choosing to switch from traditional kibble to raw food because of the potential health benefits. Raw food diets for dogs typically consist of uncooked meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables.

When it comes to choosing the best raw food for dogs, there are several things to consider. First, it’s important to ensure that the food is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific dietary needs. You’ll also want to consider the quality of the ingredients and whether the food contains any fillers or additives.

Another important factor to consider is the type of raw food you choose. Some pet owners prefer to feed their dogs a complete raw food diet, while others opt for a partial raw food diet that includes both raw food and kibble. Additionally, there are several different types of raw food available, including frozen, dehydrated, and freeze-dried options.

When selecting the best raw food for your dog, it’s crucial to read the ingredient list carefully and choose a high-quality product that meets your dog’s nutritional needs. In the following section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best raw food options for dogs on the market today.

Best Raw Food for Dogs

As pet owners, we all want to make sure that our furry friends are getting the best nutrition possible. One way to achieve this is by feeding them a raw food diet. Raw food can provide dogs with essential nutrients that they may not get from processed kibble. However, choosing the right raw food can be overwhelming with so many options available. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best raw food for dogs to help you make an informed decision. Our list includes a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that combines the benefits of kibble and raw food, then Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The number one ingredient is USA-raised beef, making it a high protein, grain-free option for your dog.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces provide natural nutrition and probiotics to support healthy digestion and skin and coat health.
• The combination of kibble and freeze-dried raw pieces in one bag makes it easy to provide your dog with complete and balanced nutrition.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than other dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces.
• The strong smell of the food may be off-putting to some owners.

We’ve been using Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The freeze-dried raw pieces are a great addition to the kibble, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point, which may be higher than other dog food options. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Another potential downside is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces. We recommend trying a small bag first to see if your dog likes it before investing in a larger bag.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that combines kibble and raw food, we highly recommend giving Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food a try.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties

If you’re looking for a raw diet for your furry friend, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties might be a good option.

Pros

• Made with 95% beef, organs, and bone
• Contains organic fruits and veggies for added nutrition
• Grain-free and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

Cons

• Pricey compared to some other dog food options
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the patties
• Patties can crumble easily, making them messy to handle

We’ve been feeding our dog Stella -amp; Chewy’s for a few months now and have noticed a positive difference in her overall health. The patties are easy to prepare – simply crumble them up and add water if desired. Our dog loves the taste and we appreciate that the ingredients are high-quality and organic.

One thing to keep in mind is that these patties are on the pricey side, so they might not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the patties, so it’s worth trying a small bag before committing to a larger purchase. Finally, the patties can crumble easily, making them a bit messy to handle – especially if you have a larger dog.

Overall, we recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties for those looking for a high-quality raw diet for their furry friend.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with whole ingredients like real meat, veggies, and fruit
• Supports easier digestion, a healthy immune system, and balanced energy levels
• Formulated by a veterinarian with over four decades of experience in nutritional therapy

Cons

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

We recently tried Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food for our small dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The food is made with real cuts of meat, veggies, and fruit, which helped support our dog’s digestion and overall health. We also noticed that our dog had more energy and seemed to enjoy the food.

However, we did find that the price of the food was quite high compared to other dog foods on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters. Finally, it’s worth noting that the food is only available in one size and flavor, so it may not be the best fit for all dogs.

Overall, we would recommend Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality raw dog food. While it may be more expensive than other options, the quality of the ingredients and the expertise of the veterinarian who formulated the food make it a great choice for dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food option for your furry friend, the Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The #1 ingredient is USA-raised beef, providing a high protein source for your dog’s diet.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces add a delicious texture and flavor to the kibble, while also providing added nutrition.
• The formula is free from grains, potatoes, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, artificial colors, and preservatives, making it a healthy option for your dog.

Cons

• The food has a strong odor, which may be unpleasant for some pet owners.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the texture of the freeze-dried raw pieces mixed in with the kibble.
• The price point is higher than some other dog food options on the market.

We’ve been using this product for a few months now, and our dog loves it. The high protein content keeps her full and satisfied, while the added freeze-dried raw pieces add a tasty crunch to the kibble. We also appreciate that the formula is free from grains and other fillers, making it a healthier option for our pup.

One thing to note is that the food does have a strong odor, which may be off-putting for some pet owners. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the texture of the freeze-dried raw pieces mixed in with the kibble. However, overall we’ve been very happy with this product and would recommend it to other dog owners looking for a high-quality raw food option.

Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, nutritious raw food for your dog, then Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw beef and salmon pieces are a great source of protein and will help keep your dog healthy and strong.
• The kibble is made with whole grains, which are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber.
• The probiotics in the food will help support your dog’s digestive health.

Cons

• This food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market.
• The kibble may be a bit too hard for some dogs to chew.
• The smell of the food may be a bit strong for some people.

We’ve been using Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been really happy with it. Our dog loves the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier since we started feeding him this food.

The freeze-dried raw beef and salmon pieces are a great addition to the kibble, and they provide a good source of protein for our dog. We also like that the kibble is made with whole grains, which are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber.

The probiotics in the food have also been helpful for our dog’s digestive health. He used to have some issues with stomach upset, but we’ve noticed that those issues have improved since we started feeding him this food.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food to other dog owners who are looking for a high-quality raw food for their pets. It’s a bit more expensive than some other options, but we think it’s worth the extra cost for the high-quality ingredients and the added health benefits.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw food for your small dog, the Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real, USA-raised beef as the #1 ingredient
• Grain-free and made without artificial colors or preservatives
• Includes freeze-dried raw pieces for added nutrition and flavor

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces
• The kibble size may be too small for larger small breeds
• Slightly more expensive than some other dog food options

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the added nutrition from the freeze-dried raw pieces. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no digestive issues while on this food.

The small kibble size was perfect for our dog’s small mouth, but may not be suitable for larger small breeds. We also noticed that some of the freeze-dried raw pieces were left behind in the bowl, indicating that some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of these pieces.

Overall, we would recommend the Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food for small dog owners looking for a high-quality raw food option. The added nutrition from the freeze-dried raw pieces and the lack of artificial ingredients make this a great choice for health-conscious pet owners.

Instinct Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Original Raw Coated Real Chicken Natural High Protein Dog Food, 22.5 lb. Bag Chicken 2.81 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high protein, grain-free dog food that’s made with real animal ingredients and nutritious oils, then Instinct Grain Free Dry Dog Food might be the perfect choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with responsibly sourced cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Contains probiotics to support healthy digestion and omegas for skin -amp; coat
• Every piece of kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw for nutrition and taste

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the raw-coated kibble
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

We’ve been feeding our dog Instinct Grain Free Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The high protein content and real animal ingredients have helped him maintain a healthy weight and build lean muscle mass. Plus, the added probiotics have helped with his digestion and reduced his gas and bloating.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the extra cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the raw-coated kibble, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your pup.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Grain Free Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that’s made with real ingredients and free from grains, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Raw Chicken Dog Food Nibs are a great choice. Here’s what we found:

Pros

• The whole animal protein from muscle, organs, and bone marrow delivers lean, strong muscles and energy, digestive health, and clean teeth and gums in every bowl.
• The premium butcher cut raw protein is responsibly sourced and humanely harvested in the USA, making it a great choice for conscious pet owners.
• The freeze-dried raw dog food is high in protein and contains no additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, legumes, grains, or rendered by-products.

Cons

• Some dogs may not take to the taste of the freeze-dried raw food right away, so it may take some time to transition them to this type of diet.
• The high-quality ingredients and production process of the product make it more expensive than other dog food options.
• The packaging may not be very discernible, which can lead to mistakes when ordering.

We found that the Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food is a great option for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality, raw diet. The whole animal protein provides a range of benefits, from lean muscles to digestive health, while the responsibly sourced and humanely harvested ingredients make it a conscious choice. However, it may take some time to transition your dog to this type of diet, and the product is more expensive than other dog food options.

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 dog food that’s high in protein and infused with raw ingredients, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe is a great option to consider. It’s made with real deboned salmon, whitefish, and trout, which is the first ingredient in this high protein dog food. The natural dog food with raw coated kibble and pieces of freeze-dried raw dog food provides dogs with the nutritional benefits they would have discovered in the wild.

Pros

• Made with real deboned salmon, whitefish, and trout
• Infused with raw ingredients for added nutrition
• Contains whole grains to help support healthy digestion

Cons

• Some customers have reported that there aren’t enough freeze-dried raw food pieces in the bag
• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the Pacific Catch recipe

We’ve been using Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe for a few months now and our dog seems to love it. The kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw food pieces, which adds a nice texture to the food and also provides added nutrition. We also like that it contains whole grains to help support healthy digestion.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported that there aren’t enough freeze-dried raw food pieces in the bag. While we haven’t personally experienced this issue, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this dog food. Additionally, it’s more expensive compared to other dog food brands, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste of the Pacific Catch recipe, so it’s important to keep that in mind if you’re considering this dog food for your furry friend.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s infused with raw ingredients, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food Pacific Catch Recipe is definitely worth considering. It’s made with real deboned salmon, whitefish, and trout, and contains whole grains to help support healthy digestion. While it may be more expensive compared to other dog food brands, we think it’s worth the investment for the added nutrition and quality ingredients.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs

If you are looking for a high-quality raw food option for your furry friend, we highly recommend Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs.

Pros

• Crafted with a blend of 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork, this recipe includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes or any byproducts.
• RawMix offers pet parents whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient dense, kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze dried raw. These diets include meat, organs and bone broth, and deliver optimal taste and nutrition for your pet!
• 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. For those pet parents curious about raw nutrition, but not yet ready to fully switch to raw, RawMix is a great option for your furry friend.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the product is on the expensive side.
• A few customers have mentioned that their dogs did not like the product.
• One customer reported that their dog got sick after eating the product, but this seems to be an isolated incident.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Front Range Recipe for Dogs is a great option for pet parents who want to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet. The recipe is crafted with a blend of 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork, and includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes or any byproducts.

In addition, the RawMix offers pet parents whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient dense, kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze dried raw. These diets include meat, organs and bone broth, and deliver optimal taste and nutrition for your pet!

If you are seeking to feed your pet as they thrive in the wild, with protein-focused diets, and the convenient, added nutrient of freeze-dried raw, RawMix is a great option for your furry friend. Plus, Open Farm is committed to quality and sustainable practices, sourcing all of the meat, organ and bones included in these recipes from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms.

While some customers have reported that the product is on the expensive side, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. However, a few customers have mentioned that their dogs did not like the product, so it may be worth trying a smaller bag before committing to a larger size. One customer reported that their dog got sick after eating the product, but this seems to be an isolated incident.

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

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying raw food for your furry friend, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are choosing the best product for them. Here are some features to consider:

Ingredients

The first and most important thing to look at when choosing raw food for your dog is the ingredients. Make sure the product contains high-quality, whole-food ingredients that are appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and size. Look for products that list meat as the first ingredient and avoid those that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of the raw food is another important factor to consider. Ensure that the product provides a balanced and complete diet for your dog. Look for products that contain a variety of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Quality Control

Another crucial aspect to consider is the quality control of the raw food. Choose products that are made by reputable manufacturers with a good track record of producing high-quality pet food. Look for products that have undergone rigorous testing and have been approved by regulatory bodies.

Price

Price is also an important consideration when buying raw food for your dog. While it’s important to choose a high-quality product, you don’t want to overspend. Look for products that offer good value for money and compare prices across different brands.

Feeding Guidelines

Finally, make sure to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Feed your dog the recommended amount of food based on their age, weight, and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition.

In summary, when choosing raw food for your dog, look for high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, good quality control, reasonable pricing, and follow the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that your furry friend gets the best possible nutrition and stays healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A raw food diet for dogs can provide several benefits, including improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, increased energy, and better weight management. Raw food diets can also help reduce the risk of certain health issues, such as dental problems, allergies, and arthritis.

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

A balanced raw food diet for dogs should include a variety of protein sources, such as beef, chicken, and fish, as well as fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure that your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients in their diet.

What are the potential risks associated with feeding dogs raw food?

There are some potential risks associated with feeding dogs raw food, including the risk of bacterial infections, such as Salmonella and E. coli. It’s important to handle raw food properly and follow food safety guidelines to minimize the risk of infection.

Which types of raw foods are considered safe and healthy for dogs?

Safe and healthy raw food options for dogs include raw meat, bones, organs, fruits, and vegetables. It’s important to avoid feeding dogs raw pork and certain types of fish, such as salmon, which can contain harmful parasites.

How do raw food diets for dogs with allergies differ from regular raw diets?

Raw food diets for dogs with allergies may need to exclude certain protein sources, such as beef or chicken, and include alternative protein sources, such as lamb or turkey. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.

What should I look for when choosing a raw food delivery service for my dog?

When choosing a raw food delivery service for your dog, look for a company that sources high-quality ingredients, offers a variety of protein options, and follows strict food safety guidelines. It’s also important to choose a company that offers convenient delivery options and has a good reputation for customer service.