Have you ever looked at your dog’s kibble and wondered if there’s a better, more natural way to feed them? Many pet owners feel this way. They want vibrant health for their furry friends, but the world of raw dog food can feel confusing and even a little scary. Should you choose BARF, Prey Model, or a complete mix?
Navigating ingredients, sourcing safe meats, and ensuring complete nutrition are major hurdles. You worry about balancing meals correctly or whether you are actually helping your dog thrive. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to move away from traditional processed foods.
This post cuts through the noise. We will break down the basics of raw feeding into simple, easy-to-understand steps. You will learn exactly what your dog needs to thrive on a raw diet, how to start safely, and which common myths to ignore.
Ready to unlock better energy, shinier coats, and improved digestion for your best friend? Let’s dive into the essentials of feeding your dog the raw diet they were born to eat.
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.
- UPGRADE FROM KIBBLE TO FREEZE-DRIED RAW: 3x more real meat & nutrient-rich organs than Instinct Original Kibble, delivering high-quality animal protein for strong, lean muscles
- MINIMALLY PROCESSED: Never cooked and less processed than kibble to preserve ingredient integrity, nutrients, and deliver complete, balanced nutrition
- POWER OF RAW: Feeding raw supports lean muscles, strong bones, healthy digestion, immune health, improved energy & vitality, and a vibrant skin & coat
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Made with 85% meat & organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins & minerals; free from grain, corn, wheat, soy, legumes, artificial colors & preservatives.
- CRAFTED IN THE USA: Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world for a wholesome, complete diet
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- 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 both cats and dogs of all life stages.
- GREAT FOR PICKY EATERS - Extremely palatable and works as a meal or topper.
- PURPOSEFUL INGREDIENTS - No synthetic vitamin packs, 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.
- 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Raw Dog Food
Switching your dog to a raw food diet can bring amazing benefits, but it also means making smart choices. This guide helps you pick the best raw food for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you look at raw dog food packages, a few things really stand out. These features tell you if the food is good quality and balanced for your dog.
1. Nutritional Balance (The Complete Meal)
- AAFCO Statement: Make sure the label says the food meets the nutritional levels set by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). This means it has all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs.
- Meat-to-Bone Ratio: Good raw food mimics what dogs eat in the wild. Look for a good mix of muscle meat, secreting organs (like liver), and ground bone. Too much bone can cause issues.
2. Variety of Protein Sources
- A healthy diet uses different proteins. Chicken, beef, turkey, and sometimes fish are great. Rotating these proteins keeps your dog interested and provides a wider range of nutrients.
3. Ingredient Transparency
- You should easily see where the ingredients come from. “Meat” is vague. “Grass-fed beef muscle” is specific and better.
Important Materials: What’s Inside Matters
Raw food should be simple. High-quality ingredients make a big difference in your dog’s coat, energy, and digestion.
Muscle Meat
This is the main part of the meal. It provides essential amino acids for strong muscles. Look for whole cuts, not just scraps.
Organs (The Nutrient Powerhouse)
Organs, especially liver and kidney, are packed with vitamins A, D, and B vitamins. They should make up about 10% of the total diet.
Ground Bone
Bone provides necessary calcium and phosphorus. It must be ground finely to prevent choking or internal damage. Never give whole cooked bones.
Optional Additions
Some brands add safe vegetables (like carrots or spinach) or healthy fats (like fish oil). These offer fiber and extra nutrients. Check the ingredient list to ensure these extras do not replace necessary meat or organs.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all raw food is made the same. How the food is processed and sourced heavily affects its quality.
Quality Boosters:
- Human-Grade Ingredients: When ingredients are fit for human consumption, they are usually higher quality.
- Flash-Frozen: Freezing the food quickly after preparation locks in nutrients better than slow freezing methods.
Quality Reducers:
- Fillers: Watch out for grains, corn, wheat, or too many starchy vegetables. Dogs do not need these in large amounts in a raw diet.
- Ethoxyquin or Preservatives: Raw food should not need chemical preservatives. If you see them, put the food back.
- Poor Sourcing: Meat from factory farms often contains antibiotics or hormones, which you want to avoid for your pet.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you feed raw food affects your daily life. Consider your feeding style.
Convenience vs. Customization
- Pre-Made Patties/Grinds: These are the easiest. You just thaw and serve. They are perfect for busy owners or beginners.
- DIY Components: Some owners buy bulk muscle meat, separate organs, and bone meal to mix themselves. This offers maximum control but takes significant time and research.
Storage and Thawing
Raw food requires freezer space. Plan ahead! Most food thaws safely overnight in the refrigerator. Never thaw raw food at room temperature, as bacteria can grow quickly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Raw Dog Food
Q: What are the main Key Features I should look for on the label?
A: You must look for an AAFCO statement confirming it is complete and balanced, and a good ratio of muscle meat, organs, and ground bone.
Q: Is raw food always safer than kibble?
A: Raw food carries a slight risk of bacteria like Salmonella, just like any raw meat product. Safe handling, like washing your hands and bowls, is very important.
Q: What is the most important ingredient?
A: Muscle meat is the most important ingredient because it supplies necessary protein for your dog’s energy and body structure.
Q: Should I worry about bones in the food?
A: If the food is commercially prepared, the bones should be ground very finely. You should never give your dog large, hard bones that can splinter.
Q: Can I mix raw food with my dog’s dry kibble?
A: Most experts say no. Raw food digests much faster than kibble. Mixing them can slow down the digestion of the raw food, which might cause stomach upset.
Q: How do I know if the quality is high?
A: High quality means the ingredients are human-grade, clearly labeled, and the food is flash-frozen shortly after being made.
Q: My dog has allergies. Can raw food help?
A: Yes. Raw diets often use novel proteins (like duck or venison) that your dog has never eaten before, which can reduce allergic reactions common with chicken or beef in kibble.
Q: How much space do I need in my freezer?
A: You need enough freezer space to store at least one to two weeks’ worth of food, depending on your dog’s size. Bigger dogs need more space.
Q: What are signs that the raw food is NOT working for my dog?
A: Signs include excessive gas, very soft or smelly stool, or skin issues. These might mean the protein source or the bone/organ ratio needs adjusting.
Q: Is feeding raw food very expensive?
A: Generally, yes, raw food costs more than standard dry kibble. However, some owners find their vet bills decrease over time because of better overall health.