Have you ever looked at your dog’s food bowl and wondered if there’s a better way to nourish your best friend? Many dog owners feel this way. They see ingredients lists full of things they cannot pronounce and worry if they are truly feeding their dog the best diet. Choosing the right raw dog food can feel overwhelming. You hear success stories, but you also hear warnings. How do you sort through the hype and find a safe, balanced option for your furry family member?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the basics of raw feeding. You will learn what makes a complete and balanced raw meal. We will cover the different styles of raw diets available today. By the end of this post, you will feel confident understanding the benefits and practical steps for making the switch. Get ready to explore the world of raw feeding and discover how it can transform your dog’s health.
Top Raw Dog Foods Recommendations
- 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.
- FREEZE-DRIED RAW CHICKEN HEART DOG TREAT: Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats pack more protein than industry standard into every bite to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our natural freeze-dried raw dog treats are made from responsibly sourced, premium butcher cut chicken hearts.
- BETTER PROTEIN = BETTER BENEFITS: The best freeze dried dog treats on the market use premium butcher cut raw protein to unlock the benefits of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals in raw muscle and organs, because pets deserve the energetic playtimes, healthy skin, shiny coats, strong teeth, and essential gut health that a high-protein diet delivers.
- PROUDLY AMERICAN CRAFTED: All our dog treats and food are responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to ensure the quality of our proteins. We go above industry standards to preserve flavor and ensure the highest quality of protein and nutrients in every Vital Essentials product.
- MADE WITHOUT: Dog treat additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains, or rendered by-products. Vital Essentials also offers the widest variety of single-protein raw dog food and treats on the market—great for picky eaters and dogs with allergies!
- RAW DOG TREATS FREEZE DRIED FOR PEAK FRESHNESS: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to lock in peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry ensures minimal processing, while preserving the vital nutrients that our pets deserve, the way nature intended.
- 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.
- EXCEPTIONAL FOR PICKY EATERS – Consistently entices even the most finicky dogs to eat when other foods fail – our freeze-dried raw patties deliver irresistible taste that transforms mealtime for selective dogs.
- VERSATILE SERVING OPTIONS – Perfect as complete meals, crumbled food toppers, or high-value training treats – ideal for puppies and adult dogs with options to serve dry or rehydrated with water.
- 95% GRASS-FED BEEF & ORGANS – Premium freeze-dried raw nutrition with whole-prey approach delivers muscle-building protein, enhanced digestibility, and natural nutrients that support coat, skin, and overall health.
- BALANCED NUTRITION FOR ALL LIFE STAGES – Complete and balanced diet for growing puppies and adult dogs with probiotics for digestive health and omega fatty acids for skin and coat – free from grains, gluten, fillers, and artificial preservatives.
- MADE IN USA WITH PREMIUM INGREDIENTS – Small-batch production with 100% organic fruits and vegetables, responsibly-sourced ingredients, and no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors – trusted by thousands of pet parents.
- 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.
- FREEZE DRIED RAW MEAT: Kibble in the Raw locks in the nutrients and flavor of raw meat through our freeze-dried process. Unlike traditional kibble, it delivers optimized nutrition and digestibility without high-heat cooking and overprocessing.
- EASY SCOOP AND SERVE: Skip the prep and mess! Kibble in the Raw is ready to serve straight from the bag, offering the convenience of dry dog food with the nutrition of a raw diet. No preparation or hydration necessary.
- BEEF RECIPE: Made with 100% freeze dried raw protein and grass-fed beef, this recipe delivers protein-rich nutrition to help maintain muscle health and support sustained energy. Packed with flavor, it’s a meal your pup will love with every bite!
- ONLY REAL WHOLE FOODS: We use organic apples, sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, and kale—no synthetic vitamins or minerals. Our minimally processed recipes preserve natural nutrients to help support healthy digestion and overall wellness.
- GENTLE ON DIGESTION: Primal freeze dried dog food is crafted without fillers or common allergens and includes added probiotics to support digestive health, leading to smaller, firmer stools.
- HUMAN GRADE: Our dry dog food is crafted from a 100% human grade ingredients, like ranch raised beef, beef liver, and carrots for complete and balanced meals that your dog will love.
- SAFE AND RELIABLE FOOD CHOICE: Made in a certified human food facility, this dry dog food upholds the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind that your pets are eating healthy food from your own kitchen
- MINIMALLY PROCESSED FOR FRESH FLAVOR: Our production method cold-presses fresh ingredients into bite-sized clusters and slow roasts them to keep their rich aroma and taste, making mealtime delightful for dogs
- IDEAL FOR ADULT DOGS OF ALL BREEDS: This complete nutrition formula is perfect for adult and senior dogs, ensuring they receive essential vitamins and minerals, making it the smart choice for health-conscious pet parents
- NO COMPROMISE ON QUALITY: We prioritize your pet's health by saying no to feed grade ingredients, meat meals, and artificial preservatives. Our human grade dog food is crafted to provide only the best nutrition without compromise
- Raw Freeze Dried Nutrition for Dogs – Solid Gold Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Topper is made with real beef, organ meat & functional superfoods like pumpkin & cranberries. Use as a high-protein food topper for dogs or tasty freeze dried dog treat
- Digestive & Immune Support – This freeze dried raw food for dogs has a blend of plasma, amino acids & FOS prebiotics to support gut microflora, nutrient absorption & immune health—a great freeze dried dog food for picky eaters or sensitive stomachs
- Powered by nutrientboost – This freeze dried dog food for small breeds & large breeds has our nutrientboost blend to deliver protein, digestive support & nutrients in one tasty bite—ideal as freeze dried raw food for dogs or as dog meal toppers
- Easy to Serve, Great for All Breeds – Serve freeze dried training treats for dogs or sprinkle on their kibble for a dog food freeze dried option. This versatile freeze dried dog food is perfect for small breeds, large breeds, or as puppy food toppers
- Holistic Ingredients, No Fillers – Without grains or artificial additives, this freeze dried dog topper delivers protein-rich bites for dogs of all ages & sizes—perfect for parents seeking meal toppers for dogs & freeze dried treats for dogs
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Raw Dog Food
Switching your dog to a raw food diet can feel like a big step. Raw dog food offers many benefits, but you need to choose the right one. This guide helps you pick the best option for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for raw dog food, certain features make a product stand out. Look for these things first:
1. Complete and Balanced Nutrition
- The food must meet AAFCO standards. This means it has all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs to stay healthy.
- Check the label for a statement confirming it is “Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.”
2. Appropriate Meat Sources
- High-quality raw food uses muscle meat as the main ingredient.
- Good sources include chicken, beef, turkey, or fish. Avoid foods heavy in fillers or by-products.
3. Inclusion of Organs and Bone
- Raw diets need variety. Look for ingredients like liver, kidney, and ground bone. These provide essential nutrients like calcium and Vitamin A.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The quality of the ingredients directly impacts your dog’s health. Understand what should—and shouldn’t—be in the bag.
Protein Sources
Protein is the most important part of raw food. Choose single-source protein diets if your dog has allergies. If your dog tolerates everything, variety is best.
Fats and Oils
- Healthy fats are crucial for energy and skin health. Look for omega-3 fatty acids, often found in fish oil or flaxseed.
- Avoid excessive amounts of low-quality animal fats.
Vegetables and Fruits (Optional but beneficial)
Some formulas include small amounts of safe vegetables like carrots, spinach, or blueberries. These add fiber and antioxidants. Keep in mind that dogs do not easily digest large amounts of plant matter.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all raw foods are made equally. Pay attention to how the food is prepared and stored.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Human-Grade Ingredients: This shows the ingredients meet standards for human consumption, suggesting higher quality control.
- Flash Freezing: High-quality raw foods are often flash-frozen quickly. This process locks in nutrients better than slow freezing.
- Minimal Processing: The less the food is handled or heated, the better. Raw food should stay raw!
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Use of Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, or excessive grains lower the nutritional value for a carnivorous dog.
- Inconsistent Sourcing: If a brand frequently changes where they get their meat, quality control might slip.
- Improper Handling: If the food thaws and refreezes, bacteria can grow, and quality suffers.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy the food is to use matters a lot for busy pet owners.
Ease of Use
- Pre-Portioned Packs: Many brands sell food in daily serving sizes. This makes feeding time simple and removes the guesswork.
- Grinds vs. Chunks: Some dogs prefer a fine grind, while others enjoy chewing on chunks of meat and bone. Choose based on your dog’s preference and chewing ability.
Who Should Use Raw Food?
- Active Dogs: Dogs needing high energy often thrive on the dense nutrition of raw diets.
- Dogs with Sensitivities: Many owners report fewer skin issues and better digestion after switching sensitive dogs to raw food.
- Puppies (with Vet Approval): Puppies need specific calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for bone growth. Always confirm the puppy formula is balanced with your veterinarian.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Raw Dog Foods
Q: Is raw dog food safe from bacteria?
A: Reputable raw food companies use strict safety measures like High-Pressure Processing (HPP) or rigorous sourcing to minimize pathogens like Salmonella. However, owners must handle the food safely, just like they handle raw meat for themselves.
Q: How much raw food should I feed my dog?
A: Generally, dogs eat about 2% to 3% of their ideal body weight daily. This amount changes based on your dog’s age, metabolism, and activity level. Always start with the manufacturer’s suggestion and adjust slowly.
Q: Can I mix raw food with my dog’s current kibble?
A: Most nutritionists advise against mixing. Raw food digests much faster than kibble. Mixing them can sometimes cause digestive upset because the foods sit in the stomach at different rates.
Q: What is the difference between freeze-dried and frozen raw food?
A: Frozen raw food is kept cold to maintain its raw state. Freeze-dried food has the moisture removed. You must add water back to the freeze-dried version before feeding. Both are nutritious, but frozen is closer to a natural kill diet.
Q: What are “complete” vs. “supplemental” raw diets?
A: A “complete” diet has everything your dog needs daily. A “supplemental” diet is just meat or bone and needs other ingredients added to be balanced. Always choose a complete diet unless you are an experienced raw feeder.
Q: My dog is a picky eater. Will they eat raw food?
A: Most dogs love the taste of raw meat! If your dog resists, try warming the food slightly (never cook it) or mixing in a small amount of plain yogurt or water to enhance the smell.
Q: How long does raw food last once thawed?
A: Once thawed in the refrigerator, most raw dog food lasts for about 3 to 4 days. Always keep it sealed and at the bottom of the fridge to prevent cross-contamination.
Q: Do I need to add vitamins or supplements?
A: If you buy a food labeled “complete and balanced,” you do not need to add extra vitamins. Supplements should only be added under the guidance of a vet or canine nutritionist.
Q: Can I feed my dog raw chicken bones?
A: Yes, raw, edible bones are a key part of many raw diets. They provide calcium and dental benefits. Cooked bones are dangerous because they splinter. Always supervise your dog when they eat raw bones.
Q: What is HPP in raw food production?
A: HPP stands for High-Pressure Processing. It uses intense water pressure, not heat, to kill harmful bacteria while keeping the food raw and preserving nutrients.