Does your dog deserve the best nutrition possible? Many dog owners worry about what they feed their furry friends. Store shelves overflow with dog food bags. Some look healthy, but others hide secrets. Choosing the right food can feel like a puzzle. You want what is best, but the choices are confusing and sometimes expensive.
Understanding raw kibble can solve some of these worries. Raw kibble promises benefits of a raw diet without the hassle of preparation. However, not all raw kibbles are created equal. You might wonder which brands are safe or which truly offer balanced nutrition. Finding reliable information to cut through the marketing noise is tough.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down what raw kibble really is. You will learn how to spot high-quality ingredients and avoid common pitfalls. By the end, you will feel confident picking a raw kibble that truly supports your dog’s health.
Let’s dive in and explore the world of raw kibble together.
Top Raw Kibble Dog Food Recommendations
- 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.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Features all natural, minimally processed bites of real beef and free from grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives
- POWER OF RAW: A unique blend of crunchy kibble and FreshDried Raw for bold flavor, irresistible texture, and boosted nutrition
- NUTRIENT-DENSE: USA-raised beef as the first ingredient delivers protein for strong, lean muscles, with fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-rich ingredients for balance
- 6-IN-1 HEALTH BENEFITS: Supports digestive health, immune function, skin & coat health, heart health, joint support, and lean muscle
- CRAFTED IN THE USA: Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world for a wholesome, complete diet
- 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.
- ALLERGY FRIENDLY FOR SENSITIVE STOMACHS– For healthier and smoother digestion our food has no chicken, no meal ingredients, no grains, and only lamb animal protein. We designed this for pets with allergies, intolerances, a sensitive stomach, or just pets that want clean, healthy dog food.
- RAW YOU CAN SEE INGREDIENTS FOR REAL HEALTH BENEFITS: We’ve mixed our freeze dried raw pumpkin and air dried purple sweet potato to further supplement digestion and aid in food transition. We also added our freeze dried raw lamb and green beans to help entice picky eaters to chow down. We use these simple ingredients so pet parents can see the quality of the whole food ingredients we use. The kibble is formulated by a Ph. D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved and uses salmon as the #1 ingredient!
- FREEZE DRIED RAW PIECES: We’ve used our bestselling single ingredient freeze dried lamb with freeze dried pumpkin and green beans to boost nutrients such as Omega 3 and fiber. Freeze drying is the best way to preserve natural nutrients, with over 61% more nutrients retained relative to dehydration or cooking. Most importantly you can see the quality whole food ingredients we are using!
- THE BEST RAW FRIENDLY DOG FOOD: A Better Dog Food mixes allergy friendly ingredients and probiotics in our kibble with freeze dried raw treats in one bag. A complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all types, including small breeds, puppies, and seniors. We also use a sturdy resealable bag to make it easier to grab and go!
- A BETTER DOG FOOD, YOU CAN TRUST: Our dog food is made with real, recognizable ingredients you can see! No chicken, no meal ingredients, grain free, minimally processed, and only lamb animal protein to make a highly digestible allergy friendly healthy and natural food. A Better Dog Food is made in the USA and our mission is to deliver the healthiest, most irresistible dog food to our fellow pet parents!
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Features USA-raised beef with whole-food ingredients and free from corn, wheat, soy, potato, peas, lentils, and artificial preservatives
- POWER OF RAW: A unique blend of crunchy kibble and freeze-dried raw bites for bold flavor, irresistible texture, and boosted nutrition
- NUTRIENT-DENSE: All-natural, protein-packed, minimally processed bites of real beef plus whole grains for balanced, nutrient-rich nourishment
- SUPPORTS WELLNESS: Beneficial fiber from barley supports digestion, while essential nutrients help maintain strong muscles, healthy skin & coat, and immune health
- CRAFTED IN THE USA: Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world for a wholesome, complete diet.
- 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.
- FISH & PORK RECIPE: Made with 100% freeze dried raw protein from wild-caught fish and crate-free pork, this recipe is packed with flavor and delivers premium nutrition with omega fatty acids to support muscle health and joint function.
- ONLY REAL WHOLE FOODS: We use organic kale, spinach, apples, carrots, and sweet potatoes—no synthetic vitamins or minerals. Our minimally processed recipes preserve natural nutrients to help support healthy digestion and joint health.
- 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.
- HUMANELY SOURCED MEAT - Crafted with a blend of 100% animal welfare certified grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb and pork, this irresistible recipe includes nutrient-dense meat, organ, and bone with no grains, legumes or any byproducts.
- RAWMIX - These recipes offer 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!
- REWILD YOUR DOG’S BOWL - 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.
- QUALITY & SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES - At Open Farm we believe that great nutrition is rooted in the integrity of our ingredients. All of the meat, organ and bones included in these recipes are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms. By working exclusively with farmers who share our commitment to exceptional quality and sustainable practices, we can make better food for your pets, while also doing some good for family farms, farm animals and the environment.
- 100% TRANSPARENCY: As a part of our commitment to transparent sourcing practices, we provide owners with the ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag, because where pet foods come from shouldn’t be a mystery.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Made with wild-caught salmon as the first ingredient and free from corn, wheat, soy, brewer’s rice, by-product meals, artificial colors, and preservatives
- POWER OF RAW: Coated in freeze-dried raw for enhanced flavor and nutrition, while crafted to remain minimally processed and never cooked
- NUTRIENT DENSE: Features real meat, hearty whole grains, and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables
- SUPPORTS WELLNESS: Enhanced with added vitamins and minerals to help maintain energy, better digestion, and a shiny coat
- CRAFTED IN THE USA: Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world for a wholesome, complete diet
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Raw Kibble Dog Food
Raw kibble is a popular choice for dog owners. It mixes the convenience of dry kibble with the nutrition of a raw diet. Finding the right one takes a little homework. This guide helps you pick the best option for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for raw kibble, certain features stand out. These tell you about the food’s quality and how good it will be for your dog.
- High Meat Inclusion: Look for foods where real meat is the very first ingredient. Good raw kibble has a high percentage of animal protein.
- Freeze-Dried or Air-Dried Process: These gentle methods keep the nutrients locked in. They avoid the harsh heating that damages raw food quality.
- Whole Food Ingredients: The best foods include vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats, not just fillers.
- Probiotics and Enzymes: These living components aid digestion. They are often added after the drying process.
Important Ingredients and Materials
What goes into the kibble matters most. You want nutrient-dense materials.
Protein Sources
The protein source should be easily recognizable. Chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb are great starting points. Avoid vague terms like “meat by-products.” Quality raw kibble uses muscle meat and organs.
Fats and Oils
Healthy fats provide energy and support a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are crucial. Fish oils and flaxseed are excellent sources.
Carbohydrates (Keep Them Low)
Dogs do not need a lot of carbs. Low-glycemic vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potato, or peas are better than grains like corn or wheat. High-quality raw kibble keeps these fillers to a minimum.
Factors That Influence Quality
Not all raw kibbles are created equal. Some manufacturing choices boost nutrition, while others lower it.
Quality Boosters
- Sourcing Transparency: Brands that tell you where they get their meat are usually better.
- Minimal Processing: The less the food is heated or altered, the more nutrients remain.
- Complete and Balanced Nutrition: Ensure the food meets AAFCO standards for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or all life stages).
Quality Reducers
- High Heat Treatment: If the food isn’t truly freeze-dried, high heat might have been used. This destroys beneficial bacteria found in raw food.
- Artificial Additives: Colors, artificial preservatives, and synthetic vitamins often signal lower-quality overall ingredients.
- Excessive Fillers: Too much starch or grain content dilutes the raw benefits.
User Experience and Use Cases
Raw kibble offers specific benefits for dog owners.
Convenience and Storage
The main selling point is ease of use. You scoop it like regular kibble. Storage is simple—no refrigeration needed until opened, and even then, it lasts well in an airtight container. This makes feeding time fast and mess-free.
Best Use Cases
- Transitioning Diets: It’s perfect for owners moving from highly processed kibble to a raw diet without the hassle of preparing frozen patties every day.
- Travel: Raw kibble travels easily. You don’t need coolers or special handling when you are on the road.
- Pickier Eaters: The strong smell and high palatability of raw ingredients often entice dogs who refuse standard dry food.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Raw Kibble Dog Food
Q: What exactly is raw kibble?
A: Raw kibble is dry dog food made from raw ingredients that are then gently freeze-dried or air-dried. This keeps the nutritional value high while making it shelf-stable like regular kibble.
Q: Is raw kibble really as good as fresh raw food?
A: It is very close! Fresh raw food is never processed with heat. Raw kibble uses gentle drying, which preserves most nutrients but is more convenient to store and serve.
Q: Do I need to add water to raw kibble?
A: Many brands recommend adding a little warm water. This helps rehydrate the food slightly, making it easier for the dog to eat and promoting hydration.
Q: How long does raw kibble last once opened?
A: If stored in an airtight container away from heat and light, it usually lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks. Always check the specific brand instructions.
Q: Will raw kibble upset my dog’s stomach?
A: If your dog has a sensitive stomach, introduce it slowly over one to two weeks. Start with a small amount mixed with their old food to prevent digestive upset.
Q: Does this type of food contain bacteria like Salmonella?
A: Quality manufacturers test their ingredients rigorously. Because the food is dried, the bacteria risk is much lower than with fresh, uncooked raw food. However, always handle it cleanly.
Q: Can I feed raw kibble to a puppy?
A: Yes, many raw kibble formulas are designed for “all life stages,” which includes growing puppies. Check the label to ensure it meets puppy nutritional requirements.
Q: Is raw kibble more expensive than regular kibble?
A: Generally, yes. Because of the high-quality meat content and specialized freeze-drying process, raw kibble costs more than standard dry foods.
Q: What is the benefit of probiotics in the food?
A: Probiotics are helpful bacteria that support gut health. They aid digestion and help your dog absorb more nutrients from the food.
Q: How is raw kibble different from baked or extruded kibble?
A: Traditional kibble is cooked at very high heat (extruded). Raw kibble avoids this high heat, preserving more natural enzymes and vitamins that heat usually destroys.