Raw dog food is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a natural and healthy diet. Raw dog food is exactly what it sounds like – uncooked meat, bones, and organs that are meant to mimic the diet of a wild dog. This type of food is believed to provide dogs with numerous health benefits, including better digestion, healthier skin and coat, and improved energy levels.
When it comes to choosing the best raw dog food, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, it is essential to ensure that the food is made from high-quality, human-grade ingredients. This will help to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need. Additionally, it is important to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and activity level.
Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best raw dog food is the sourcing of the ingredients. Look for foods that use locally sourced, organic ingredients whenever possible. This will not only ensure that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition but will also support local farmers and businesses.
After researching and testing various raw dog food options, we have identified the top choices for pet owners looking to provide their dogs with the best possible nutrition.
Best Raw Dog Food
As pet owners, we know that feeding our furry friends with the right food is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Raw dog food has been gaining popularity among pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a more natural diet. Raw dog food is uncooked, unprocessed, and typically consists of raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. We have researched and tested various raw dog food products, and below are our top picks for the best raw dog food available on Amazon.
1. Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food, High Protein Real Beef Kibble + Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag Beef 20 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a high-quality raw dog food, Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
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Pros
- Made with real, USA-raised beef as the #1 ingredient
- Contains freeze-dried raw pieces for added nutrition and flavor
- Grain-free and made without artificial colors or preservatives
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
- More expensive than some other dog foods
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
We recently tried this dog food with our own furry friends, and we were impressed with the quality and nutrition it provides. The freeze-dried raw pieces add a great texture and flavor, and the high protein content is perfect for active dogs.
One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food. Additionally, it is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious pet owners. Finally, if your dog has specific dietary restrictions, you may need to consult with your veterinarian before switching to this food.
Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that contains real, whole-food ingredients.
2. A Better Dog Food | Salmon Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend A Better Dog Food | Salmon Dry Dog Food for pet parents who want to give their furry friends the best raw dog food.
Pros
- The freeze-dried raw pieces of wild caught salmon and broccoli add more nutrients such as Omega-3 and fiber to the kibble.
- The kibble is formulated by a Ph. D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved.
- The high 35% protein content of the kibble helps dogs develop strong muscles and immune system.
Cons
- Some customers complained about the lack of actual freeze-dried salmon and veggie bits.
- Some dogs experienced diarrhea after eating the chicken formula.
- The bag size is only 15 pounds.
We have used A Better Dog Food for a while now, and we are impressed with the quality of the whole food ingredients used to create this raw dog food. The freeze-dried raw pieces of wild caught salmon and broccoli provide more nutrients such as Omega-3 and fiber to the kibble, making it a complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all types.
The kibble is formulated by a Ph. D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved, so we trust that it is safe and healthy for our furry friends. With a high 35% protein content, the kibble helps our dogs develop strong muscles and immune system.
However, some customers complained about the lack of actual freeze-dried salmon and veggie bits, which can be a downside for those who want to see more of the raw ingredients. Additionally, some dogs experienced diarrhea after eating the chicken formula.
Overall, we believe that A Better Dog Food | Salmon Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet parents who want to give their dogs the best raw dog food. The freeze-dried raw pieces, high protein content, and use of whole food ingredients make it a healthy and delicious option for our furry friends.
3. Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete
We highly recommend Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a premium blend of freeze-dried raw beef, healthy vegetables, and essential vitamins.
Pros
- Nutra Complete contains 40 ultra-healthy ingredients that support energy, digestion, coat, and longevity.
- The freeze-dried raw beef is high-quality and nutritious, providing your dog with high-quality protein to support their organs and muscles.
- The antioxidant-packed berries, high-fiber vegetables, and seeds full of fatty acids can support healthy eyesight, digestion, and mobility.
Cons
- Nutra Complete is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw beef.
- The packaging size may not be suitable for larger dogs or for those who eat a lot.
In our experience, Nutra Complete is a great option for dog owners who are looking to boost their dog’s diet with freeze-dried raw nutrition. We love how easy it is to use as a mixer with your dog’s current food, and the essential vitamins and minerals can help support your dog’s energy, coat, and immune system.
We also appreciate that the ingredients in Nutra Complete are of high quality, and the fresh fruits and vegetables provide a great source of antioxidants for our furry friends. However, we do acknowledge that the price point may be a bit steep for some dog owners, and some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the freeze-dried raw beef.
Overall, we highly recommend giving Nutra Complete a try if you’re looking for a premium blend of freeze-dried raw dog food that contains essential vitamins, minerals, and high-quality ingredients.
4. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains
If you’re looking for a natural dog food with grains that supports healthy digestion and joints, then Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains is worth considering.
Pros
- Real deboned beef is always the first ingredient
- Leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs to support healthy hips and joints
- Contains ancient grains like quinoa for added nutrition
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- A bit expensive compared to other dog foods
- Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies
We’ve been feeding our dog Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains for a few months now, and we’ve noticed that his coat is shinier, and he has more energy. The kibble size is perfect for his small mouth, and he seems to enjoy the taste.
The real deboned beef is always the first ingredient, and it’s good to know that we’re feeding our dog high-quality protein. The added ancient grains like quinoa provide added nutrition, and the leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin help support our dog’s healthy hips and joints.
One downside is that some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s worth trying a smaller bag first to see if your dog likes it. Also, it’s a bit expensive compared to other dog foods, but we feel that the quality justifies the price. Lastly, if your dog has grain allergies, then this dog food is not suitable for them.
Overall, we highly recommend Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains if you’re looking for a natural dog food with grains that supports healthy digestion and joints.
5. Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, & Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag
If you are looking for a nutritious and delicious raw dog food, then Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option for you and your furry friend.
Pros
- Made with real beef, pea, and brown rice
- Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level
- A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
- Bag is heavy and may be difficult to handle for some users
We recently tried this product and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real beef, pea, and brown rice provide a tasty and nutritious meal for our dog. We also appreciate that a portion of the proceeds go towards helping animals in need.
One of the standout features of this product is Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which includes added vitamins, minerals, and taurine to support a healthy mind, body, and energy level. We noticed that our dog seemed more energetic and alert after eating this food.
However, it is important to note that this product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food. We also found the bag to be quite heavy and difficult to handle at times.
Overall, we would recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious raw dog food. It is a great option for dogs who do not have any dietary restrictions and enjoy the taste of real beef, pea, and brown rice.
6. Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food
We highly recommend the Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food for large adult dogs who need a healthy and balanced diet.
Pros
- Made with fresh de-boned meats and fish for protein, omega 3s & 6s, and a delicious taste.
- Carefully crafted with balanced protein & fat to help maintain a healthy weight, with L-carnitine to support heart health & fat burning and New Zealand green mussels for chondroitin to support healthy hips & joints.
- Grain free recipe with 20+ natural superfoods, including antioxidant-rich blueberries & pomegranate to support healthy immune system function, and whole eggs, a complete protein with all the essential amino acids dogs need.
Cons
- A little pricey compared to other dog food brands.
- Some customers have reported that the kibble can expire quickly.
- The large kibble may be difficult for smaller dogs to eat.
We have been using Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food for our large breed dog for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The fresh ingredients and lack of artificial flavors and preservatives make us feel good about what we are feeding him. Our dog also seems to love the taste and eagerly eats every meal.
The balanced protein and fat content has helped him maintain a healthy weight and the addition of New Zealand green mussels has improved his joint health. We also appreciate the inclusion of natural superfoods to support his immune system.
While the price may be a little higher than some other brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health make it worth the investment. However, we do recommend keeping an eye on the expiration date of the kibble to avoid any potential issues. Overall, we highly recommend Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food for any large adult dogs in need of a healthy and nutritious diet.
7. Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend purchasing the Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food. This product is made with high-quality, nutritious ingredients that will keep your dog healthy and happy.
Pros
- Made with responsibly sourced USA raised beef, which is the #1 ingredient
- Contains probiotics to support healthy digestion and omegas for skin & coat
- Every piece of kibble is coated in freeze dried raw for nutrition and taste
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- A bit more expensive than other dog food options
- Some users reported that the kibble size was too large for their small dogs
We were impressed with the quality of the Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food. The high protein content and natural ingredients make it a great choice for dogs of all sizes. Our dog loved the taste and had no digestive issues after eating it.
The freeze dried raw coating on every piece of kibble adds a delicious flavor that our dog couldn’t resist. We also appreciated that the product is grain-free and made without artificial colors or preservatives.
Overall, we believe the Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food option.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best raw dog food, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to look for when shopping for raw dog food:
Ingredients
First and foremost, you want to make sure that the raw dog food you choose is made from high-quality ingredients. Look for products that list real meat as the first ingredient, rather than fillers like corn or wheat. It’s also important to choose a product that contains a variety of meats, as this will provide your dog with a range of nutrients.
Nutritional Balance
In addition to high-quality ingredients, you want to make sure that the raw dog food you choose provides a balanced diet for your pet. This means that the food should contain the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.
Quality Control
When it comes to raw dog food, safety is key. Look for products that are made by reputable manufacturers who follow strict quality control processes. This will help ensure that the food is free from contaminants and safe for your dog to eat.
Price
Raw dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so it’s important to consider price when making your choice. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t want to break the bank. Look for products that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.
Feeding Guidelines
Finally, make sure to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Raw dog food can be more calorie-dense than kibble, so it’s important to make sure you’re feeding your dog the right amount. Additionally, some raw dog food products may require additional supplements to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need.
Overall, choosing the right raw dog food requires careful consideration of a variety of factors. By paying attention to ingredients, nutritional balance, quality control, price, and feeding guidelines, you can find a product that will provide your dog with the nutrition they need to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of feeding my dog a raw food diet?
Feeding your dog a raw food diet can provide several health benefits. Raw food diets can improve your dog’s coat, skin, and overall digestion. Additionally, raw food diets can also help your dog maintain a healthy weight, improve their energy levels, and reduce the risk of certain health problems.
What are some affordable options for raw dog food?
If you’re looking for affordable options for raw dog food, consider making your own raw food at home. You can use simple ingredients like ground meat, vegetables, and supplements to create a balanced and nutritious meal for your dog. Alternatively, there are several affordable brands of frozen raw dog food available in the market.
Which brands of frozen raw dog food are the most popular?
Some of the most popular brands of frozen raw dog food include Primal Pet Foods, Stella & Chewy’s, and Nature’s Variety. These brands offer a variety of raw food options that are high in quality and nutrition.
What are some of the best raw foods for dogs with allergies?
If your dog has allergies, it’s important to choose raw foods that are free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and dairy. Some of the best raw foods for dogs with allergies include proteins like venison, bison, and rabbit, as well as vegetables like sweet potatoes and green beans.
What are the top-rated raw dog food companies?
Some of the top-rated raw dog food companies include Primal Pet Foods, Stella & Chewy’s, Nature’s Variety, and Darwin’s Natural Pet Products. These companies offer high-quality raw food options that are both nutritious and delicious.
Do veterinarians recommend feeding dogs a raw food diet?
While some veterinarians do recommend feeding dogs a raw food diet, others do not. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet, as they can provide guidance based on your dog’s individual needs and health status.
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