Does your dog ever seem less than thrilled with their dinner bowl? You want the absolute best for your furry friend, but the pet food aisle can feel like a confusing maze. So many bags promise miracles, yet you still worry if you are truly feeding them right.
Choosing a raw food diet for your dog often brings up big questions. Is it safe? Is it complete? People worry about bacteria or if they are missing important nutrients. These concerns stop many owners from exploring this natural feeding option, leaving them feeling stuck between traditional kibble and the raw revolution.
This post cuts through the noise. We will break down the raw dog food journey into simple, easy-to-understand steps. You will learn exactly what a balanced raw meal looks like and how to start feeding your dog confidently without the guesswork. Get ready to discover the benefits that a raw diet can bring to your dog’s health and happiness.
Top Dog Food Raw Recommendations
- Includes One 21 oz Resealable Tub: Stewart Freeze Dried Beef Liver irresistible dog treats are perfect for training, rewarding, or enhancing your dog’s meals with high-protein, single-ingredient nutrition with up to 475 treats per tub for a 3 month supply
- The Original Freeze-Dried Dog Treats Since 1973: Our treats are made in the USA with trusted ingredients; Freeze dried in small batches in our Dayton, Ohio facility using USDA-certified beef liver sourced from reputable US suppliers
- Professional Trainer-Preferred: Our freeze-dried treats have been trusted by professional trainers for decades and were recognized by CNN Underscored as a top dog treat in December 2024
- Single Ingredient and Versatile: Made with 100 percent beef liver, these natural dog treats are grain free, gluten free, soy free, and corn free; great for training, food toppers, or dogs with food sensitivities to add variety and raw nutrition
- Raw Nutrition Without the Mess: We gently freeze dry raw beef liver to lock in nutrients and flavor, then package it in a resealable tub to keep treats fresh and tasty; Cats love these and they are safe as a healthy cat treat for your feline friends
- 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.
- 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 freeze-dried raw bites 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
- SUPPORTS WELLNESS: Our Raw Boost formula is enhanced with probiotics, higher Omegas* and more antioxidants* for digestive health, healthy skin & coat, and immune health (*compared to Instinct Original)
- CRAFTED IN THE USA: Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world for a wholesome, complete diet
- 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.
- Healthy and Natural Fresh Dog Food
- High Quality Nutrition from Natural U.S. Beef and Veggies You Can See
- Gently Steam Cooked to Lock in Essential Nutrients
- Supports Healthy Digestion with High Quality, Easily Digestible Ingredients
- Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants from Farm Fresh Vegetables
- 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
- All meats humanely raised and G.A.P. certified, no added antibiotics or hormones, 100% traceable ingredients, non-GMO grains vegetables and fruit. Large kibble size for large breed dogs, packed with natural nutrition tailored for large breed dogs.
- Nutritious blend of Harvest Chicken and Homestead Turkey, Freeze-dried raw, bone broth coated kibble with freeze-dried raw chucks. High protein kibble, nutrient dense organ meats. Healthy Ancient Grains
- Protein Rich, whole-prey kibble, including mix of high-quality animal proteins including chicken and turkey, as well as nutrient dense organ meat. Provides delicious taste that dogs love.
- Large kibble size for large breed dogs
- Packed with natural nutrition tailored for large breed dogs.
- Healthy and Natural Fresh Dog Food
- High Quality Nutrition from U.S. Farm Raised Chicken, Beef, Egg, Salmon and Veggies You Can See
- Gently Steam Cooked to Preserve Essential Nutrients and Natural Flavor
- Rich in Omega3 and Omega6 Fatty Acids to Support Healthy Skin and Coat
- Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants from Farm Fresh Vegetables
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Raw Dog Food
Switching your dog to a raw food diet can be exciting! Raw food mimics what dogs ate in the wild. This guide helps you pick the best option for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you look at different raw dog food brands, some features really stand out. These details tell you a lot about the food’s quality and how good it will be for your dog.
Nutritional Balance
- Complete and Balanced: The food must have all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs. Look for statements that say it meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, etc.).
- Protein Source: Good raw food lists a named meat source first. Think chicken, beef, or fish.
Form and Preparation
- Form: Raw food comes frozen or freeze-dried. Frozen needs freezer space but is often less processed. Freeze-dried is lightweight and easy to store but requires adding water.
- Bone Content: Bones provide calcium. The food should have the right ratio of meat, bone, and organs for healthy bones.
Important Materials in Raw Dog Food
What goes into the bowl matters most. High-quality ingredients lead to a healthy, happy dog.
Protein Powerhouse
The main ingredient should always be muscle meat. Avoid foods where fillers or plant proteins are listed high up. High-quality raw diets use human-grade meats when possible.
Organs and Fats
Organs like liver and kidney pack essential vitamins. Healthy fats, often from fish or meat, give your dog energy and keep their coat shiny.
Additives to Avoid
Quality raw food keeps things simple. You should generally avoid artificial colors, flavors, or unnecessary grains like corn or wheat. Some fillers are used, but the best options use whole food sources like vegetables or fruits sparingly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all raw foods are made equal. A few processing steps can drastically change the food’s final quality.
Quality Boosters
- Sourcing Transparency: Brands that tell you where they get their meat (e.g., grass-fed beef) usually offer better quality.
- Minimal Processing: Less heat and pressure used in making the food mean more nutrients stay intact. This is why many owners choose frozen raw over heavily processed kibble.
Quality Reducers
- Irradiation: Some raw foods are irradiated (treated with radiation) to kill bacteria. While this makes the product safer, some owners feel it reduces the nutritional value.
- Unknown Sources: If a brand hides where its ingredients come from, this reduces trust and potential quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the food to use? This depends on your lifestyle.
For Busy Owners (Use Case: Convenience)
Freeze-dried raw food is fantastic for travel or small homes. You just scoop and add water. It takes up almost no space.
For Dedicated Meal Preppers (Use Case: Maximum Freshness)
Frozen raw patties or bulk containers require more freezer space. However, many owners find this method offers the freshest possible meal for their dog with simple thawing.
Transitioning Your Dog
Remember to introduce raw food slowly. Mix a little new food with the old food for about a week. This helps prevent stomach upset.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Raw Dog Food
Q: Is raw dog food safe from bacteria like Salmonella?
A: Reputable brands use strict handling and testing. However, like any raw meat product, you must handle it safely, just like you handle raw chicken for your own dinner.
Q: How much raw food should I feed my dog?
A: This changes based on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Most dogs eat between 2% and 3% of their ideal body weight daily, split into two meals.
Q: Can I mix raw food with dry kibble?
A: Many experts advise against mixing them in the same meal. Raw food digests faster than kibble. Mixing can sometimes slow down digestion for the raw portion.
Q: What if my dog is a picky eater?
A: Many dogs love the taste of raw food! If yours is hesitant, try warming the thawed food slightly, or sprinkle a tiny bit of something smelly (like sardines) on top to encourage them.
Q: Do I need to add supplements to commercial raw food?
A: If you choose a “complete and balanced” commercial raw food, you usually do not need extra supplements. If you make your own, supplements are essential.
Q: How long does frozen raw food last once thawed?
A: Once thawed in the refrigerator, most raw food should be used within three to four days.
Q: Is raw food more expensive than kibble?
A: Usually, yes. Raw food is often pricier because it uses higher-quality, less processed ingredients, but many owners feel the health benefits justify the cost.
Q: What is “freeze-dried raw”?
A: This is raw food that has had all the moisture removed. You add water back before serving. It is convenient and shelf-stable.
Q: What age should I start my puppy on raw food?
A: Puppies can often start on puppy-specific raw formulations as soon as they are fully weaned, around 6 to 8 weeks old.
Q: How do I know if the raw diet is working for my dog?
A: You should see positive changes! Look for shinier coats, higher energy levels, smaller, firmer stools, and better overall health.