Raw Dog Food

Raw dog food is a natural feeding approach that focuses on providing dogs with fresh, uncooked ingredients similar to what their ancestors ate in the wild. Use our Raw Dog Food Calculator to find the right portions and keep your dog healthy.

What Is Raw Dog Food?

Raw dog food consists of uncooked animal products designed to mimic a dog’s ancestral diet. The diet can be homemade or commercially prepared, often following the BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) or Prey Model feeding styles.

• BARF Model – Includes meat, bones, organs, and small amounts of vegetables or fruits.
• Prey Model – Focuses solely on animal-based ingredients without plant matter.
• Protein sources – Chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, fish, and rabbit.
• Essential nutrients – Amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, and omega fatty acids.
• Preparation methods – Grinding, portioning, and freezing for freshness.

Raw feeding aims to provide a biologically appropriate diet that supports muscle development, dental health, and energy levels. When done correctly, it can lead to visible improvements in coat shine, digestion, and overall vitality.

Benefits of Feeding Raw Dog Food

Feeding raw dog food offers numerous health advantages that go beyond simple nutrition. Dogs on raw diets often show improved digestion, cleaner teeth, and higher energy levels.

• Improved digestion – Natural enzymes aid nutrient absorption.
• Healthier coat and skin – Omega fatty acids enhance shine and reduce dryness.
• Dental health – Chewing raw bones helps clean teeth naturally.
• Weight control – Balanced portions prevent obesity.
• Stronger immunity – Fresh ingredients support immune function.

These benefits make raw feeding a holistic approach to canine health. Dogs often become more active, maintain lean muscle, and experience fewer digestive problems.

How Much Raw Food to Feed Your Dog

Most adult dogs thrive on 2–3% of their body weight daily, while puppies and highly active dogs may need up to 4%. A raw dog food calculator can simplify this process by providing exact measurements for each ingredient category.

• Feeding percentage – 2–3% for adults, 3–4% for active dogs.
• Meal frequency – One or two meals per day.
• Adjustments – Modify based on weight changes or health goals.
• Monitoring progress – Regular weigh-ins ensure proper feeding.
• Calculator tools – Provide accurate daily portion breakdowns.

Feeding the right amount prevents both undernutrition and overfeeding. Owners should observe their dog’s body condition and energy levels, adjusting portions as needed.

Freeze‑Dried Raw Dog Food: Pros and Cons

Freeze‑dried raw dog food offers the benefits of raw feeding with added convenience. It’s made by removing moisture from raw ingredients while preserving nutrients, flavor, and texture. This makes it lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for travel or busy lifestyles.

• Pros – Long shelf life, easy storage, minimal preparation, nutrient retention.
• Cons – Higher cost, less moisture, may require rehydration.
• Nutritional value – Comparable to fresh raw diets when properly formulated.
• Convenience factor – Perfect for travel or limited freezer space.
• Transitioning tips – Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Freeze‑dried raw food bridges the gap between raw and processed diets. It’s a practical option for owners who want raw nutrition without daily preparation.

Stella & Chewy’s Freeze‑Dried Raw Dinner Patties

Stella & Chewy’s Freeze‑Dried Raw Dinner Patties are a premium raw food option designed to deliver balanced nutrition in a convenient format. Made with 95% meat, organs, and bone, these patties replicate the ancestral diet of dogs while being easy to store and serve.

Defining features of Stella & Chewy’s Freeze‑Dried Raw Dinner Patties:

• High Protein Content – 95% meat, organs, and bone for optimal nutrition.
• Convenient Patties – Easy to portion and serve, either as a full meal or topper.
• Grain‑Free Formula – No fillers, artificial preservatives, or additives.
• Variety of Recipes – Available in beef, chicken, lamb, and other proteins.
• Enhanced Palatability – Freeze‑drying locks in flavor and nutrients.

This food is ideal for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a biologically appropriate diet without the hassle of handling raw meat daily.

Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Freeze‑Dried Raw Dog Food

Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend is a veterinarian‑formulated freeze‑dried raw food designed to support overall canine health. It combines multiple protein sources with fruits, vegetables, and seeds to create a nutrient‑dense, balanced diet.

Defining features of Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend:

• Multi‑Protein Formula – Includes beef, turkey, salmon, and organ meats.
• Whole Food Ingredients – Fruits, vegetables, and seeds for added vitamins and minerals.
• Veterinarian Developed – Created by Dr. Marty Goldstein, a holistic vet.
• Freeze‑Dried Convenience – Easy to store and prepare, just add water.
• Digestive Support – Rich in natural enzymes and probiotics.

This blend is ideal for dog owners seeking a holistic, nutrient‑dense raw diet that supports energy, digestion, and long‑term wellness.

Raw Green Tripe Dog Food Benefits

Raw green tripe is a nutrient‑dense superfood for dogs. It’s the unprocessed stomach lining of ruminant animals like cows or sheep, rich in digestive enzymes, probiotics, and essential fatty acids. Despite its strong odor, it offers remarkable health benefits.

• Digestive support – Natural enzymes aid nutrient absorption.
• Probiotics – Promote gut health and balanced microbiome.
• Omega fatty acids – Support skin and coat health.
• Palatability – Dogs love its strong scent and flavor.
• Nutrient density – High in calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.

Adding green tripe to a raw diet enhances digestion and overall wellness. It’s best served fresh or frozen and should make up a small portion of the total meal plan.

Raw Paws Freeze‑Dried Green Beef Tripe

Raw Paws Freeze‑Dried Green Beef Tripe is a single‑ingredient raw food option crafted for dogs that thrive on a biologically appropriate diet. Made from 100% green beef tripe sourced from free‑range cattle, it delivers digestive enzymes, probiotics, and essential nutrients in a convenient freeze‑dried format.

Defining features of Raw Paws Freeze‑Dried Green Beef Tripe:

• Single‑Ingredient Formula – 100% beef tripe, no fillers or additives.
• Digestive Support – Naturally rich in probiotics and enzymes for gut health.
• Freeze‑Dried Convenience – Easy to store and serve, retains nutrients and flavor.
• High Palatability – Strong natural aroma encourages picky eaters.
• Versatile Use – Works as a topper, treat, or complete meal supplement.

This food is ideal for owners seeking a natural digestive aid and nutrient‑dense raw option for their dogs.

ZIWI Peak Air‑Dried Dog Food – Tripe & Lamb

ZIWI Peak Air‑Dried Tripe & Lamb is a premium raw alternative from New Zealand, combining lamb and green tripe with superfoods for a balanced diet. The air‑drying process preserves nutrients while eliminating pathogens, making it safe and shelf‑stable without artificial preservatives.

Defining features of ZIWI Peak Air‑Dried Tripe & Lamb:

• Dual Protein Blend – Lamb and green tripe for balanced nutrition.
• Air‑Dried Technology – Naturally preserves nutrients and flavor.
• Superfood Additions – Includes kelp, green mussels, and vitamins for joint and skin health.
• Grain‑Free Formula – No fillers, artificial additives, or GMOs.
• Complete & Balanced – Meets AAFCO standards for all life stages.

This food is ideal for pet owners who want a nutrient‑rich, shelf‑stable raw diet with added superfoods for overall wellness.

Raw Dog Food for Puppies

Puppies require higher energy and nutrient levels to support growth and development. Raw feeding can meet these needs when properly balanced. A puppy’s diet should include more protein, calcium, and phosphorus than an adult’s.

• Feeding percentage – 5–8% of body weight daily.
• Calcium balance – Essential for bone growth.
• Protein sources – Chicken, turkey, beef, and fish.
• Meal frequency – 3–4 meals per day.
• Transitioning – Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Owners should monitor growth and adjust portions regularly. Consulting a veterinarian ensures the diet meets developmental needs safely.

Instinct Raw Boost Puppy, Natural Dry Dog Food with Freeze‑Dried Pieces

Instinct Raw Boost Puppy is a high‑protein dry food enhanced with freeze‑dried raw pieces for added nutrition and flavor. Designed specifically for growing puppies, it combines kibble convenience with the benefits of raw feeding.

Defining features of Instinct Raw Boost Puppy:

• Dual Format Nutrition – Crunchy kibble mixed with freeze‑dried raw pieces.
• High Protein Formula – Real chicken as the first ingredient.
• DHA for Development – Supports brain and eye health in puppies.
• Balanced Minerals – Calcium and phosphorus for bone growth.
• Grain‑Free Recipe – No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives.

This food is ideal for puppy owners who want the convenience of kibble with the added benefits of raw nutrition.

Open Farm Freeze‑Dried Raw Puppy Food

Open Farm Freeze‑Dried Raw Puppy Food is crafted with ethically sourced proteins and superfoods to provide a complete and balanced diet for puppies. The freeze‑dried format preserves nutrients while making storage and feeding simple.

Defining features of Open Farm Freeze‑Dried Raw Puppy Food:

• Ethically Sourced Proteins – Humanely raised chicken and salmon.
• Superfood Additions – Includes blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach.
• Freeze‑Dried Convenience – Nutrient‑dense, easy to store and serve.
• Grain‑Free Formula – No fillers or artificial additives.
• AAFCO Approved – Meets nutritional standards for puppy growth.

This food is ideal for pet owners who value sustainability and want a nutrient‑rich raw diet tailored for puppies.

Raw Dog Food for Adult Dogs

Adult dogs thrive on a balanced raw diet that supports energy, muscle tone, and overall health. At this stage, consistency is key — meals should provide the right ratio of protein, fat, and micronutrients without overfeeding.

• BARF model ratios – 70% meat, 10% bones, 5% liver, 5% other organs, 10% vegetables/fruits.
• Prey Model ratios – 80% meat, 10% bones, 10% organs.
• Feeding percentage – 2–3% of body weight daily.
• Meal frequency – One or two meals per day.
• Monitoring condition – Adjust portions based on weight and activity.

Adult dogs benefit from steady routines and balanced portions. Owners should observe body condition, energy levels, and coat quality to ensure the diet is working.

Nature’s Diet Simply Raw

Nature’s Diet Simply Raw is a freeze‑dried whole food meal designed to provide complete nutrition for adult dogs. Made with human‑grade ingredients, it combines meat, organs, bone broth, eggs, superfoods, and probiotics to create a nutrient‑dense diet that supports long‑term health.

Defining features of Nature’s Diet Simply Raw:

• Whole Food Nutrition – Includes meat, organs, bone broth, eggs, and superfoods.
• Freeze‑Dried Format – Locks in nutrients while offering easy storage.
• Probiotics & Prebiotics – Supports digestive health and immunity.
• Human‑Grade Ingredients – Crafted to the same standards as food for people.
• High Omega Content – Rich in omega‑3,6,9 for skin and joint support.

This food is ideal for owners who want a complete, nutrient‑dense raw diet with the convenience of freeze‑drying.

Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete

Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete is a veterinarian‑formulated freeze‑dried raw food designed to support adult dogs’ energy, immunity, and overall wellness. It blends high‑quality beef with fruits, vegetables, antioxidants, and amino acids to deliver balanced nutrition in a lightweight, shelf‑stable format.

Defining features of Nutra Complete:

• Veterinarian Developed – Crafted by experts to meet canine nutritional needs.
• Multi‑Nutrient Blend – Beef combined with fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants.
• Freeze‑Dried Convenience – Easy to store and prepare, just add water.
• Immune Support – Includes prebiotics and amino acids for long‑term health.
• Grain‑Free Formula – No fillers, artificial preservatives, or by‑products.

This food is ideal for dog owners seeking a holistic, balanced raw diet that supports energy, digestion, and immune health.

Raw Dog Food for Senior Dogs

Senior dogs require special attention when it comes to raw feeding. As metabolism slows and activity decreases, portion sizes often need to be reduced to prevent weight gain. At the same time, older dogs benefit from nutrient‑dense meals that support joint health, immunity, and digestion.

• Lower feeding percentage – 1.5–2% of body weight daily.
• Joint support – Include omega‑3 fatty acids and cartilage‑rich cuts.
• Digestive ease – Softer meats and ground bones aid digestion.
• Immune support – Fresh vegetables and organ meats provide antioxidants.
• Regular monitoring – Frequent vet checkups ensure dietary needs are met.

Raw feeding for seniors focuses on maintaining quality of life. Balanced meals help reduce inflammation, support mobility, and keep older dogs comfortable.

Dr. Harvey’s Raw Vibrance

Dr. Harvey’s Raw Vibrance is a dehydrated foundation mix designed to be combined with fresh protein and oils, creating a complete raw meal for senior dogs. Crafted with vegetables, herbs, and superfoods, it provides digestive support and balanced nutrition while being gentle on aging stomachs.

Defining features of Dr. Harvey’s Raw Vibrance:

• Customizable Formula – Mix with your choice of fresh meat and healthy oils.
• Digestive Support – Rich in fiber, enzymes, and probiotics for gut health.
• Superfood Blend – Includes spinach, broccoli, turmeric, and kelp.
• Grain‑Free Recipe – No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives.
• Gentle on Seniors – Designed to support older dogs with sensitive digestion.

This food is ideal for owners who want flexibility in feeding while ensuring their senior dogs receive a nutrient‑dense, easily digestible diet.

360 Pet Nutrition Freeze‑Dried Raw

360 Pet Nutrition Freeze‑Dried Raw is a veterinarian‑formulated food that combines beef, chicken, fish, and organ meats with fruits and vegetables. The freeze‑drying process preserves nutrients while making the food lightweight and easy to store.

Defining features of 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze‑Dried Raw:

• Multi‑Protein Formula – Beef, chicken, fish, and organ meats for balanced nutrition.
• Holistic Ingredients – Includes fruits, vegetables, and omega‑rich oils.
• Veterinarian Developed – Crafted to meet the needs of aging dogs.
• Freeze‑Dried Convenience – Easy to store, prepare, and serve.
• Immune & Joint Support – Antioxidants and omega‑3s help maintain vitality.

This food is ideal for senior dog owners seeking a convenient, nutrient‑dense raw option that supports long‑term health and mobility.

Safety Tips for Handling Raw Dog Food

Handling raw dog food requires strict hygiene to protect both pets and humans. Raw meat can carry bacteria, so safe preparation and storage are essential. Owners should treat raw dog food with the same care as raw meat intended for human consumption.

• Storage – Keep food frozen until use, thaw in the refrigerator.
• Preparation – Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw dog food.
• Cleaning – Wash hands, bowls, and surfaces thoroughly after handling.
• Serving – Serve portions promptly and discard leftovers.
• Travel safety – Use insulated containers when feeding outside the home.

By following these safety practices, owners can minimize risks while ensuring their dogs enjoy the benefits of raw feeding. Proper hygiene protects the household and keeps raw diets safe, effective, and sustainable.