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A raw dog food diet is designed to mimic a dog’s natural ancestral menu. The whole concept of raw feeding is based upon a dog’s instinctive carnivorous bias — a built-in desire to capture (or find) and eat another animal.
As unsavory as it may seem, it is completely natural for a wolf to consume the entire animal. Meat, bones, organs and all.
As direct descendants of wolves, dogs are simply not genetically optimized to consume the 50% carbohydrate content of today’s commercial kibbles.
So, how do these diets compare?
The Ancestral Diet Compared to Dry Kibble
No one can argue the dry baked pellets we call dog food aren’t convenient. Yet the nutrient profile of a dry kibble is nowhere near the nutrient content of a dog’s ancestral diet.
Notice the higher carbohydrate content of the kibble compared to the dog’s natural ancestral diet. Or how about the dramatically lower protein and fat levels?
The Benefits of a Raw Diet
Feeding a raw dog food diet has many notable benefits…
- Firmer stools
- Improved digestion
- Healthier skin and coat
- Reduced allergy symptoms
- Better weight management
There have been many reports of improved health when chronically ill pets were switched from a commercial product to a raw dog food.
The Downside of a Raw Dog Food Diet
A raw dog food diet can’t touch the convenience of a kibble. Just measure and pour. It just doesn’t get any easier.
Yet besides the lack of convenience, there’s another critical issue. Bacterial contamination. Salmonella and E. coli germs can always be a potential problem with raw meats. Yet the risk of food-borne disease is actually quite low.
That is low risk for dogs. But not for humans. That’s because a dog’s digestive system is shorter and more acidic. Which makes canine infections like these fairly rare. The real risk of food-borne disease is actually greater for a dog’s human caretakers — not the dog. Yet with proper care and handling, this risk can be dramatically reduced.
How to Use Our List
Below you’ll find a list of the Advisor’s suggested raw dog foods. Of course, this list should not be considered a complete catalog of all the raw dog foods on the market.
For there are others. Many others. We only provide this small group as a starting point. As a matter of fact, if you know of a specific dog food you believe we should have included on this list, please feel free to share your recommendations in the Comments section below. Or if you’re looking for some suggestions yourself, be sure to look through our readers’ comments to find more good ideas.
Best Raw Dog Foods December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best raw dog food brands for December 2024
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1. We Feed Raw
We Feed Raw Turkey Patty received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of six recipes in this product range made by We Feed Raw.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
We Feed Raw contains high-quality ingredients with added essential vitamins and minerals to create a perfectly balanced raw meal for your dog.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Things we like
- USDA human-grade meats
- Limited ingredients
- Formulated by a Ph.D animal nutritionist
Main Ingredients Turkey tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Raw frozen Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at We Feed Raw"We love We Feed Raw. Our bulldog looks and feels gorgeous from eating this food. He had terrible food allergies in the past and is doing so well now!"
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2. Open Farm
Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s second-highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of seven freeze-dried raw recipes in this product range made by Open Farm
The bulk of its protein is derived from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals this recipe contains 43% protein, 40% fat and 9% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 93%.
This premium brand contains meat, organ, and bones in each recipe, providing high-quality nutrition, using sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food range here
Things we like
- 100% traceable ingredients
- Human-grade
- No added antibiotics or hormones
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, beef liver, beef kidney, organic butternut squash Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Open Farm"I love Open Farm freeze-dried raw products! My dogs eat only that and homemade balanced dog food. There are no more overweight issues, itching, or stomach upsets. They have never been healthier."
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3. Dr. Marty
Dr Marty Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness received the Dog Food Advisor’s second-highest rating: 4.5 stars. It is one of seven recipes in this product range made by celebrity veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstein’s pet food company.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 39% protein, 29% fat and 24% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 73%.
This range includes multiple sources of quality meat and fish proteins and is free from artificial preservatives and fillers. Being freeze-dried means that the nutrients are better preserved and it offers a well-balanced and nutritious diet.
Read our review of the full Dr. Marty Dog Food (Freeze-Dried Raw) range here
Things we like
- Zero artificial ingredients
- Minimally processed
- Nutritionally dense
Main Ingredients Turkey, beef, salmon, duck, beef liver Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 39% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Dr. Marty"Leo loves the food and seems to have more energy and less shedding too. He now enjoys his walks and has even started playing with his toys again like when he was a young pup!"
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4. Halo
Halo Freeze-Dried Raw Meal Bites Beef Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of four recipes in this product range by Halo.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 36% fat and 13% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 83%.
Halo’s premium freeze-dried raw recipes are made up of 99% real meat and organs and minimally processed to preserve the natural flavor and nutrients found in raw food.
Read our review of the full Halo Freeze-Dried Raw Meal Bites Dog Food (Freeze-Dried) range here
Things we like
- Minimally processed
- High-quality ingredients
- No fillers
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, beef liver, beef lung, beef kidney Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Halo"Snickers is a rescue that has been with me for 10 years. She loves and thrives on Halo freeze-dried beef bites. It’s the best and she is healthy and happy."
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5. Instinct
Instinct Raw Frozen Bites Puppy Cage-Free Chicken received the Advisor’s highest rating; 5 stars.
It is one of seven recipes in this product range by Instinct.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 38% protein, 28% fat and 26% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75)%.
Instinct uses whole meat and organs, non-GMO fruits, veggies, and other wholesome ingredients, raw ingredients are frozen in their prime to maintain the highest level of nutrients.
Read our review of the full Instinct Raw Frozen Diets Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Things we like
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Minimally processed
- Nutrient-dense
Main Ingredients Chicken (including ground chicken bone), chicken liver, chicken heart, yellow squash, apples Type Raw frozen Protein Percentage 38% AAFCO Standards Growth and reproduction Best For Puppies and pregnant or lactating females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Instinct"I started my puppy on this at 8 weeks. He digested it well and enjoyed his meal time. After a month and the next visit to the vet, he complimented me on how solid he was. Highly recommend for puppies"
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6. Stella & Chewy
Stella and Chewy’s Absolutely Rabbit Dinner Patties receives the Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 13 recipes in this range by Stella and Chewy’s.
Stella and Chewy’s Absolutely Rabbit Dinner Patties derives the bulk of its protein from rabbit. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 52% protein, 33% fat and 7% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
Each recipe in the range is made with 100% human-grade ingredients, including nutrient-rich meats, fruit and vegetables as well as superfoods.
Read our review of the full Stella and Chewy’s Dinners Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Things we like
- Certified organic fruits & vegetables
- Responsibly sourced
- No artificial preservatives or colorings
Main Ingredients Rabbit with ground bone, olive oil, rabbit liver, pumpkin seed, organic cranberries Type Raw frozen Protein Percentage 52% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Stella and Chewy"Thank you for Absolutely Rabbit. My dog loves Dandy Lamb and because of allergies, we are limited in our protein choices. I know I need variety in my food and so does my dog. So once a month I switch his food from Lamb to Rabbit. He loves the rabbit. Just like the lamb it is packed full of rabbit and good nutrition 90% rabbit and 10% other good stuff."
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7. Maev
Maev Raw Chicken Weight & Digestion received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of nine products in this range made by Maev.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 44% protein, 15% fat and 33% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 33%.
Maev uses USDA-certified organic high-quality ingredients in every recipe and contains no man-made chemicals or preservatives. The recipes also include antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables for optimal health.
Read our review of the full Maev Raw Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- USDA certified
- Protein rich ingredients
Main Ingredients USDA chicken, USDA chicken liver, USDA chicken gizzard, green bean, zucchini, blanched potato Type Raw frozen Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Maev"Our 10 year old retriever has completely come to life. He is more alert, his coat doesn’t feel waxy, and he is more spry. He loves the food, and looks forward to his meal."
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8. pawTree
pawTree Real Turkey received the Dog Food Advisor’s second-highest rating: 4.5 stars. It is one of three recipes in this product range.
This food derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 45% protein, 34% fat and 13% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 76%.
pawTree uses premium human-grade ingredients, fresh, raw and USDA-inspected. Each recipe is gently dried at low temperatures to preserve the nutritional value of each ingredient.
Read our review of the full pawTree Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Human-grade
- USDA-certified
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey liver, turkey hearts, garbanzo beans, dried sweet potatoes Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 45% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at pawTree"My furbabies have terrible allergies and stomach issues. One chews her paws relentlessly! pawtree food & treats have helped so much! I'll never go back. Nothing but the best for my furbabies! "
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9. The Simple Food Project
The Simple Food Project Beef & Salmon Recipe received the Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of six recipes in this freeze-dried raw range made by The Simple Food Project.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 44% protein, 28% fat and 20% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
The Simple Food Project range is made from quality limited ingredient whole foods, with vitamins and minerals coming from natural food sources.
Read our review of the full The Simple Food Project Freeze-Dried Dog Food range here
Things we like
- USDA-certified
- Limited ingredients
- Easily identifiable ingredients
Main Ingredients Grass-raised beef, wild-caught salmon, grass-raised beef liver, flaxseed, grass-raised beef heart Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Simple Food Project"My Chihuahua's hair is softer since she has been eating Simple Food. It is easy to prepare and I know she is getting quality food. Some freeze-dried food companies have been bought out by China. I am thankful for the USA company"
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10. Furry Wonder
Furry Wonder Mobility Advance Raw Duck and Chicken recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of four freeze-dried raw recipes in this range.
Furry Wonder Mobility Advance Raw Duck and Chicken derives the bulk of its protein from duck. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 45% protein, 34% fat and 12% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 76%.
This food is rich in animal-based proteins which are listed as the first ingredient and freeze-dried to preserve the nutritional value.
Read our review of the full Furry Wonder Dog Food (Freeze-Dried) range here
Things we like
- Contains Omega-3 fatty acids
- No filler or preservatives
- Minimally processed
Main Ingredients Duck, chicken, chicken with bone, chicken liver, chicken hearts Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 45% AAFCO Standards No Best For Unspecified Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Furry Pet Food"My dog couldn’t get enough of this freeze-dried dog food! Looked very appetizing, and the smell was also very appetizing. Easy for him to eat…it sort of crumbled in his mouth. I have two male cats that couldn’t get enough of it also! It seemed they all just absolutely loved it!"
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11. Smack
Smack Caribbean-Salmon Fusion received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of five recipes in this range by Smack.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 54% protein, 21% fat and 17% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38)%.
Each of these recipes contain quality whole foods. The carbohydrates are obtained from organic fruits and vegetables and they include nutritional bone-in proteins with organs.
Read our review of the full Smack Dog Food (Raw Dehydrated) range here
Things we like
- Organic fruits and vegetables
- Zero synthetics
- GMO-free ingredients
Main Ingredients Salmon, rockfish, coconut, pumpkin, spinach Type Raw dehydrated Protein Percentage 54% AAFCO Standards No Best For Unspecified Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Smack"Switched my dog to Smack a year ago and watched her enjoy every morsel and saw a big difference in her disposition and gut health. We have tried all the Smack varieties but the Crunch of the Caribbean salmon fusion is her favorite."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Final word
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