Does your dog deserve the best nutrition possible? Many dog owners think so. Raw food diets are gaining popularity because they mimic what dogs eat in the wild. This natural approach can lead to shinier coats and more energy for your furry friend.
However, jumping into frozen raw dog food can feel overwhelming. You might worry about balancing nutrients or picking safe, high-quality brands. Finding reliable information among all the noise is tough, and you want to feed your best friend wisely without the stress.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great frozen raw food. You will learn what ingredients to look for and how to store these meals safely. By the end, you will feel confident choosing the perfect frozen raw diet for your dog’s health.
Top Frozen Raw Dog Food Recommendations
No. 1
Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dogs & Cats - Beef Recipe, 1-lb Rolls (20 Pack) - Fresh Pet Food Made in USA, Grass-Fed Beef, Natural Dog Food Rolls, Raw Frozen Dog Food & Cat Food
- ALL-NATURAL DOG FOOD ROLL AND CAT FOOD ROLL: Raw Paws beef frozen dog food roll is made from 100% natural beef dogs and cats and even ferrets love! This single-protein cat food and dog food beef recipe has no preservatives, fillers or additives. High-protein grain free beef dog food and cat food that is fully digestible, improves skin and coat health, supports oral hygiene and helps pets build and maintain lean muscle mass. Your pet will love our raw frozen dog food and beef cat food!
- CAT FOOD AND DOG FOOD MADE IN USA ONLY: Our frozen raw dog food beef blend comes from grass fed beef sourced from Indiana family farms. We partner with local farmers to guarantee the best beef dog food and cat food made from healthy free-range cows raised in humane living conditions. When you feed your pet raw blend beef grain free dog food and cat food, you’re imitating your pet’s natural, species-appropriate diet, which helps your pet achieve optimal health, vibrancy, and longevity.
- NUTRIENT-DENSE ALL BEEF DOG FOOD AND CAT FOOD: Not only is our dog and cat food beef roll irresistible, our raw beef dog food has a blend of 80% muscle meat, 10% organ and 10% bone. Raw fresh dog food and cat food made from beef is rich in the amino acids L-carnitine and taurine, both of which are essential for cardiac health but are often lacking in pet food. High in iron, copper and zinc, our all natural beef raw food for dogs and cats has vitamins that are vital for health and vitality.
- EASY-TO-SERVE CAT AND DOG BEEF ROLL: Our 1-lb cat food and dog food log is super easy and convenient to handle, serve and store! Simply thaw the dog and cat tube food and serve as needed or partially thaw our frozen dog food and cat food in the fridge and cut into portions with a serrated knife. Refreeze extra portions or form into cat food and dog food patties for future feedings. The convenient size of our grain free dog food roll also makes it simple to rotate proteins for all your pets.
- WE VALUE YOU: We stand behind our brand and strive to ensure that you and your pet are truly happy. Meeting your expectations is our top priority at Raw Paws Pet, Inc.
No. 2
Nature's Diet Simply Raw Freeze-Dried Whole Food Meal - Makes 18 Lbs Fresh Food with Muscle, Organ, Bone Broth, Whole Egg, Superfoods, Fish Oil Omega 3, 6, 9, Probiotics & Prebiotics (Beef)
- Raw Food Made Easy : 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. Just add water to make this 3 lb bag into over 18 lbs of raw whole food, ready to serve in minutes.
- Ingredients With Purpose : Simply Raw is 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 : Freeze-dried raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics & prebiotics. Raw, whole food ingredients you can see.
- All Natural Nutrition : At Nature’s Diet, we believe in honest, transparent labels. We are proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients we use to make Simply Raw - unlike some other brands, we never put anything into our 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. Key Product Features
- USA Sourced, Sustainable, Thoughtful : Made lovingly in small batches in the USA with regionally sourced ingredients & humanely raised meat. Real food for healthy dogs and a healthier planet.
- Safe Raw : 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. Shelf stable, safe to handle & easy to store.
No. 3
Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dogs & Cats - Duck Recipe, 3-lb Rolls (6 Pack) - Fresh Pet Food Made in USA - Natural Rolls - Raw Frozen Duck Dog Food - Raw Dog & Cat Food
- SMALL BATCH DOG FOOD DUCK RECIPE: Raw Paws raw duck dog food is sourced from healthy ducks raised on US family farms. Duck dog food rolls are made in small batches weekly in a licensed and inspected facility without additives or artificial ingredients!
- RAW FOOD FOR DOGS, CATS, & FERRETS: Our raw duck dogs, cats and ferrets love is a delicious, nutritious meal ALL your pets will enjoy! This dog and cat food duck flavor is a blend of meat, bone and organ that imitates your pet’s natural, species-appropriate diet.
- CONVENIENT FROZEN RAW DOG FOOD: Our 3-lb grain free dog food rolls are simple to handle, serve and store! Fully or partially thaw the duck cat food, portion with a serrated knife and refreeze. Easily shape into dog food patties for future meals!
- LIMITED INGREDIENT DOG FOOD: Our raw diet dog food is free of unnecessary and unhealthy ingredients like fillers or byproducts, making it highly digestible and gentle on tummies. Serve as a sensitive stomach dog food. Perfect for pets with allergies!
- We stand behind our brand and value our customers’ satisfaction on every single order.
No. 4
Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dogs & Cats - Beef Recipe, 1-lb Rolls (10-Count) - Fresh Pet Food Made in USA, Grass-Fed Beef Log, Natural Dog Food Rolls, Raw Frozen Dog Food & Cat Food
- ALL-NATURAL DOG FOOD ROLL AND CAT FOOD ROLL: Raw Paws beef frozen dog food roll is made from 100% natural beef dogs and cats and even ferrets love! This single-protein cat food and dog food beef recipe has no preservatives, fillers or additives. High-protein grain free beef dog food and cat food that is fully digestible, improves skin and coat health, supports oral hygiene and helps pets build and maintain lean muscle mass. Your pet will love our raw frozen dog food and beef cat food!
- CAT FOOD AND DOG FOOD MADE IN USA ONLY: Our frozen raw dog food beef blend comes from grass fed beef sourced from Indiana family farms. We partner with local farmers to guarantee the best beef dog food and cat food made from healthy free-range cows raised in humane living conditions. When you feed your pet raw blend beef grain free dog food and cat food, you’re imitating your pet’s natural, species-appropriate diet, which helps your pet achieve optimal health, vibrancy, and longevity.
- NUTRIENT-DENSE ALL BEEF DOG FOOD AND CAT FOOD: Not only is our dog and cat food beef roll irresistible, our raw beef dog food has a blend of 80% muscle meat, 10% organ and 10% bone. Raw fresh dog food and cat food made from beef is rich in the amino acids L-carnitine and taurine, both of which are essential for cardiac health but are often lacking in pet food. High in iron, copper and zinc, our all natural beef raw food for dogs and cats has vitamins that are vital for health and vitality.
- EASY-TO-SERVE CAT AND DOG BEEF ROLL: Our 1-lb cat food and dog food log is super easy and convenient to handle, serve and store! Simply thaw the dog and cat tube food and serve as needed or partially thaw our frozen dog food and cat food in the fridge and cut into portions with a serrated knife. Refreeze extra portions or form into cat food and dog food patties for future feedings. The convenient size of our grain free dog food roll also makes it simple to rotate proteins for all your pets.
- WE VALUE YOU: We stand behind our brand and strive to ensure that you and your pet are truly happy. Meeting your expectations is our top priority at Raw Paws Pet, Inc.
No. 5
ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete, 100% Freeze Dried Raw Veterinarian Formulated Dog Food with Antioxidants Prebiotics and Amino Acids (1 Pound, Beef)
- PREMIUM BLEND - Nutra Complete is veterinarian-developed with 95% ranch-raised beef & organs. Each delicious bite contains hand-selected ingredients for nutrition that help support healthy digestion, a thick coat, healthy immune function, and overall health and happiness.*
- HIGH QUALITY BEEF - Premium, ranch-raised beef and organs make up 95% of Nutra Complete. Our beef is 100% freeze-dried, so your dog gets easily digestible protein from every bite.*
- SEEDS, FRUITS, AND VEGETABLES - Our unique blend of seeds, fruits, and vegetables provides your dog with health-supporting nutrients. This includes flaxseed, blueberry, carrot, sweet potato, spinach, and more.*
- HEALTH-SUPPORTING VITAMINS AND MINERALS - Our food contains a variety of ingredients, carefully selected to offer your dog high-quality nutrition to help support their daily well-being and happiness.*
- USE AS FOOD OR AS MIXER - If you’d like to boost your dog’s diet with freeze-dried nutrition but don’t want to replace their current food, you can use Nutra Complete as a mixer. To add, simply reduce the amount of your dog’s food and replace it with the desired amount of Nutra Complete to avoid overfeeding. Each 1lb bag contains about 7 cups of food.
No. 6
Primal Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Nuggets, Turkey & Sardine Complete & Balanced Meal, Also Use as Topper or Treat, Premium, Healthy, Grain Free, High Protein Raw Dog Food, 14 oz
- Premium freeze dried raw dog food made with fresh, cage-free turkey raised without antibiotics, steroids or added hormones, wild-caught sardines and USDA organic fruits & vegetables. Grain free
- Upgrade from kibble. Minimally processed dog food delivers the highest digestibility for maximum nutrient absorption to support optimal weight, skin & coat, oral & eye health, reduced stool volume
- Serve as a complete & balanced meal, a freeze dried dog food topper or treat. Adding Primal Pet Food just a few times a week will help you start to see the results raw food for dogs can provide
- Convenient & delicious raw nutrition. Shelf-stable, great alternative to frozen dog food. Easy to crumble and serve. Best when rehydrated to satisfy your dog’s natural instinct. 3-4 nuggets per oz
- Crafted in the USA. Wholesome adult dog food with real whole food ingredients. No synthetic vitamins or minerals. No artificial flavors, colors, preservatives. No corn, wheat, soy, lentils, or legumes
No. 7
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food – Multi-Protein with Beef, Chicken, Fish, Liver & Organs, High Protein, Omega-3s, Fruits, Veggies & Superfoods, Grain-Free, No Fillers, 1 lb – Made in USA
- Made with High-Quality Ingredients – Each bag is crafted with real meat, nutrient-rich organ meats, fruits, vegetables, and seeds, providing a variety of ingredients in every serving. Made proudly in the USA.
- Freeze-Dried for Convenience – Freeze-drying helps maintain the natural taste and nutrients of raw ingredients while making it easy to store and prepare, with no refrigeration needed.
- Serve as a Meal or a Topper – Use as your dog’s complete meal or sprinkle over their usual food for added variety and taste. If using as a topper, reduce the amount of their current food to avoid overfeeding.
- No Fillers or Artificial Preservatives – Formulated without grains, cereals, or unnecessary fillers, and contains no artificial preservatives.
- Bite-Sized and Easy to Serve – The pieces are conveniently sized for dogs of all breeds and sizes, making mealtime quick and easy for you while providing a meal your dog will look forward to.
No. 8
Steve's Real Food Freeze-Dried Raw Nuggets - Beef Recipe - Raw Pet Food for Dogs - 20 oz
- CONVENIENT RAW FEEDING - The easiest way to feed raw as a meal, irresistible food topper, or high-quality treat.
- COMPLETE NUTRITION - Complete and balanced raw diet for dogs of all life stages.
- GREAT FOR PICKY EATERS - Extremely palatable and works as a meal or topper.
- PURPOSEFUL INGREDIENTS - No fillers, no artificial colors or preservatives.
- THE ORIGINAL RAW PET FOOD COMPANY: The nation's first commercially available raw pet food diet trusted since 1998.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Frozen Raw Dog Food
Switching your dog to a frozen raw food diet can offer great health benefits. This guide helps you choose the best option for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For in Frozen Raw Dog Food
Good raw food must meet several important criteria. Check these features before you buy.
1. Complete and Balanced Nutrition
- AAFCO Statement: Ensure the label clearly states the food meets the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your dog’s life stage (growth or maintenance).
- Nutrient Ratios: Look for a good balance of muscle meat, organs, and bone. A common starting point is 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% secreting organs (like liver and kidney).
2. Ingredient Transparency
- The brand should list exactly what ingredients go into the food. Avoid vague terms like “meat by-products.”
- Source of ingredients matters. Know where the meat comes from (e.g., humanely raised, antibiotic-free).
3. Proper Preparation and Handling
- The food must be frozen quickly after preparation to maintain quality.
- Packaging should be durable and freezer-safe.
Important Materials: What’s Inside Matters
Raw diets mimic what dogs eat in the wild. The best options focus on whole, recognizable foods.
Protein Sources
Variety is key. High-quality options include:
- Beef, chicken, turkey, or fish.
- Novel proteins like venison or rabbit can be great for dogs with allergies.
Fats
Healthy fats provide energy. Look for omega-3 fatty acids, often found in fish like salmon or sardines.
Organs and Bones
Organs supply vital vitamins and minerals. Bones provide calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong teeth and bones. Never feed cooked bones, as they splinter.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way the food is made and stored greatly affects its quality.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Sourcing: Human-grade or pasture-raised meats generally mean higher quality input.
- Minimal Processing: The ingredients should be ground or lightly mixed, not cooked or heavily processed.
- No Fillers: High-quality raw food avoids grains, vegetable fillers, or artificial preservatives.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Improper Freezing: If the food thaws and refreezes, bacteria levels can increase.
- Too Much Bone: Too much bone content can cause constipation or digestive upset.
- Incomplete Formulas: If a diet is only muscle meat, it lacks necessary nutrients and is not suitable for long-term feeding.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the food affects your daily routine.
Ease of Use
Frozen raw food requires freezer space and planning. You must thaw the food before serving. Many brands sell food in pre-portioned patties or tubs, which makes serving much easier.
Use Cases:
- Transitioning: Raw food is excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin issues.
- Puppies: Growing puppies benefit from the high nutrient density of raw diets.
- Weight Management: Raw diets are often high in protein and lower in carbohydrates, which helps some dogs maintain a healthy weight.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Frozen Raw Dog Food
Q: Is frozen raw food safe from bacteria like Salmonella?
A: Reputable brands use strict hygiene standards. While raw meat carries natural bacteria, a healthy dog’s stomach acid usually handles it. Proper handling (keeping it frozen until serving) is very important.
Q: How much raw food should I feed my dog?
A: Most dogs eat between 2% and 3% of their ideal body weight daily. This amount changes based on the dog’s age, activity level, and metabolism.
Q: How do I thaw the food safely?
A: The safest way is to move the portion from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. Never leave it sitting on the counter at room temperature.
Q: Can I mix raw food with my dog’s dry kibble?
A: Most experts advise against mixing them in the same bowl. Kibble and raw food digest at different rates, which can sometimes cause digestive upset.
Q: Do I need to add supplements to a complete raw diet?
A: If the product is clearly labeled as “complete and balanced” by AAFCO standards, you do not need to add extra vitamins or minerals.
Q: What if my dog seems uninterested in the cold food?
A: You can briefly run the thawed food under warm water for a few seconds to take the chill off. Do not cook it.
Q: Are raw bones safe?
A: Raw, meaty bones (like chicken necks or turkey wings) are generally safe and provide great dental health benefits. Always supervise your dog when they chew bones.
Q: How much freezer space do I need?
A: This depends on how often you order. Larger bags take up more space. Many owners buy a dedicated small freezer chest for their dog’s food.
Q: Can raw food help with bad breath?
A: Often, yes. Raw diets are higher in moisture and protein, and chewing raw meat and bone helps clean the teeth naturally, which can reduce bad breath.
Q: What is the difference between ground raw food and whole prey raw food?
A: Ground raw food is pre-mixed and easy to serve. Whole prey often involves feeding larger chunks or whole small animals (like mice or chicks) for dogs that need more chewing action.