Top 10 Best Raw Dog Food Brands

James Vega | 01-05-2026

Choosing the right raw dog food can feel overwhelming with so many options, ingredient lists, and feeding styles to consider. Pet owners want to provide the best nutrition for their dogs, but concerns about safety, convenience, and ingredient quality can make the search confusing.

This guide reviews the top raw dog food brands available, including freeze-dried, air-dried, and raw-coated options. We break down what sets each product apart, who it’s best for, and what to consider before making your choice—helping you find a raw food solution that fits your dog’s needs and your daily routine.

Editor's Choice
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Multi-Protein
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Multi-Protein
Premium Pick
Primal Kibble in The Raw Freeze-Dried Fish & Pork
Primal Kibble in The Raw Freeze-Dried Fish & Pork
Budget Pick
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Beef Dog Food
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Beef Dog Food

Top 10 Best Raw Dog Food Brands

We analyzed the top brands and best-selling products in the Best Raw Dog Food Brands category to bring you a carefully curated list of recommendations.

1. Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete Beef Freeze-Dried

Best Freeze-Dried Raw Option
Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete Beef Freeze-Dried
7.9

Ultimate Pet Nutrition

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Feeding dogs a raw diet can support digestion, coat health, and overall vitality, but many owners worry about storage, prep, and ingredient sourcing. Freeze-dried raw foods offer a practical way to deliver raw nutrition without the hassle or mess.

Nutra Complete Beef stands out for its high percentage of ranch-raised beef and organs, providing a protein-rich, minimally processed meal. It’s ideal for pet owners seeking a convenient, nutrient-dense raw food or a topper to enhance their dog’s regular diet.

  • 95% ranch-raised beef and organs for easily digestible protein and essential nutrients
  • Blend of seeds, fruits, and vegetables including flaxseed, blueberry, and spinach for balanced nutrition
  • Versatile use as a complete meal or mixer, making it easy to boost any diet

Compared to traditional kibble or wet food, this freeze-dried option prioritizes whole-animal ingredients and nutritional variety. The main tradeoff is a higher price point per serving compared to standard kibble.

Strength
  • High beef and organ content
  • Includes fruits and vegetables
  • No artificial preservatives
  • Can be used as meal or topper
  • Freeze-dried for easy storage
Weakness
  • Higher cost per serving
  • Limited protein variety

2. Primal Kibble in The Raw Freeze-Dried Fish & Pork

Best Scoop-and-Serve Convenience
Primal Kibble in The Raw Freeze-Dried Fish & Pork
9.5

Primal Pet Foods

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Raw feeding often means extra prep and cleanup, which can be a barrier for busy pet owners. Kibble in the Raw delivers the benefits of raw nutrition in a dry, scoopable format that’s as easy to serve as traditional kibble.

This product shines for its no-prep, no-hydration approach, combining wild-caught fish and crate-free pork with organic produce. It’s best for those who want the digestibility and nutrition of raw food with the simplicity of dry feeding.

  • Freeze-dried raw protein from fish and pork for optimized nutrition and flavor
  • Ready to serve with no prep or hydration required, saving time
  • Whole food ingredients like organic kale, apples, and carrots, with no synthetic additives

Unlike most freeze-dried or raw foods, this option is as convenient as kibble but avoids fillers and overprocessing. The tradeoff is a higher upfront cost compared to standard dry dog food.

Strength
  • No prep or hydration needed
  • Fish and pork protein sources
  • Organic fruits and vegetables
  • No synthetic vitamins
  • Gentle on digestion
Weakness
  • Premium price
  • Limited bag sizes

3. Instinct RawBoost Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food

Best for Small Breeds
Instinct RawBoost Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food
7.7

Instinct

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Small breed dogs have unique nutritional needs, including calorie density and joint support, which aren’t always met by standard raw or kibble diets. A blend tailored for small breeds can help maintain their health and vitality.

Instinct RawBoost Small Breed is formulated specifically for smaller dogs, with a mix of crunchy kibble and freeze-dried raw pieces. It’s a strong choice for owners of small breeds looking for balanced nutrition and easy portioning.

  • Cage-free chicken as first ingredient for lean muscle support
  • Added calcium and phosphorus for strong teeth and bones
  • No grains, corn, wheat, or soy for sensitive stomachs

Compared to generic raw or kibble foods, this blend prioritizes small breed health and portion control. The tradeoff is that it’s not ideal for larger dogs or those needing a single-protein diet.

Strength
  • Formulated for small breeds
  • Supports joint health
  • No artificial preservatives
  • Crunchy and raw blend
  • Made in the USA
Weakness
  • Not for large breeds
  • Single protein focus

4. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Beef Dog Food

Best Air-Dried Raw Alternative
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Beef Dog Food

Raw diets can be difficult to store and serve, especially for those seeking shelf-stable options without sacrificing nutrition. Air-dried foods offer a jerky-like texture that preserves raw benefits while being easy to handle.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Beef uses free-range beef and New Zealand green mussels, providing a nutrient-dense meal suitable for all life stages. It’s a great fit for owners who want raw nutrition with the convenience of a dry, shelf-stable food.

  • Air-dried process retains nutrients and delivers a chewy texture dogs love
  • Free-range beef and organs for high protein and essential minerals
  • Includes green mussels and kelp to support digestion and joint health

Compared to freeze-dried or traditional kibble, this air-dried option prioritizes shelf stability and ingredient quality. The main tradeoff is a higher cost and a texture that may not appeal to all dogs.

Strength
  • Shelf-stable air-dried format
  • Ethically sourced ingredients
  • Supports joint and coat health
  • No fillers or grains
  • Versatile as meal or topper
Weakness
  • Premium price
  • Unique texture may not suit all dogs

5. Instinct RawBoost Natural Dry Dog Food Beef Blend

Best for Kibble and Raw Blend
Instinct RawBoost Natural Dry Dog Food Beef Blend
8.9

Instinct

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Some dogs benefit from the taste and nutrition of raw food, but owners may prefer the familiarity and ease of kibble. A blend of both can offer a balanced approach for households transitioning to raw or seeking variety.

Instinct RawBoost Beef Blend combines crunchy kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces, supporting digestive, immune, and joint health. It’s best for pet owners who want to introduce raw nutrition without fully giving up kibble.

  • USA-raised beef as first ingredient for high-quality protein
  • 6-in-1 health benefits supporting digestion, skin, heart, and more
  • No grains or artificial preservatives for sensitive diets

Compared to standard kibble, this blend offers more nutritional diversity and texture. The tradeoff is a higher price and the need to monitor portion sizes to avoid overfeeding.

Strength
  • Kibble and raw blend
  • Multiple health benefits
  • No grains or fillers
  • High protein content
  • Made in the USA
Weakness
  • Higher cost than standard kibble
  • Requires portion monitoring

6. 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Multi-Protein

Best Multi-Protein Variety
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Multi-Protein
9.5

360 Pet Nutrition

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Dogs with allergies or picky appetites often need variety in their diet, but switching foods can upset digestion. A multi-protein formula provides diversity without the need to rotate products.

360 Pet Nutrition’s Freeze-Dried Raw Multi-Protein offers a blend of meats, organ meats, fruits, and vegetables in bite-sized pieces. It’s ideal for owners wanting to provide a balanced, varied diet in a single bag.

  • Multiple protein sources for balanced amino acids and taste variety
  • Freeze-dried for easy storage with no refrigeration required
  • No grains or artificial preservatives for sensitive dogs

Compared to single-protein or standard freeze-dried foods, this option prioritizes ingredient variety and convenience. The main tradeoff is that it may not suit dogs with specific protein allergies.

Strength
  • Multi-protein blend
  • No artificial preservatives
  • Easy to serve
  • Suitable as meal or topper
  • Made in the USA
Weakness
  • Not for dogs with protein allergies
  • Premium price

7. Instinct Be Natural Raw Coated Salmon & Brown Rice

Best Raw-Coated Salmon Kibble
Instinct Be Natural Raw Coated Salmon & Brown Rice
7.7

Instinct

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Some dogs need the benefits of raw nutrition but do best on a kibble-based diet, especially if they have sensitivities or require whole grains. Raw-coated kibble bridges this gap, offering enhanced flavor and nutrition.

Instinct Be Natural Raw Coated Salmon & Brown Rice features wild-caught salmon and is coated in freeze-dried raw, making it a good fit for dogs needing a balanced, minimally processed diet with whole grains.

  • Wild-caught salmon as first ingredient for omega-3s and lean protein
  • Freeze-dried raw coating delivers extra nutrition and taste
  • No corn, wheat, or soy for sensitive digestion

Compared to standard kibble, this product adds raw nutrition and higher-quality proteins. The tradeoff is less protein variety and not being fully grain-free.

Strength
  • Raw-coated kibble
  • Wild-caught salmon protein
  • Includes whole grains
  • No artificial colors
  • Supports skin and coat
Weakness
  • Not grain-free
  • Single main protein

8. Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw

Best Seafood Formula for Small Breeds
Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw
8

Nature's Blend

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Small breed dogs often require specialized nutrition, and seafood-based formulas can be gentler on digestion while offering unique proteins. Freeze-dried raw foods make it easier to serve these benefits without complex prep.

Dr. Marty Nature's Blend is designed for adult small breeds, using a seafood flavor profile. It’s a good option for owners seeking a limited-ingredient, small-batch raw food for smaller dogs.

  • Seafood-based formula for alternative protein and flavor
  • Freeze-dried for easy storage and serving
  • Sized for small breeds to support portion control and palatability

Compared to larger-breed or multi-protein foods, this formula prioritizes small breed needs and seafood protein. The tradeoff is a smaller package size and limited protein variety.

Strength
  • Seafood protein source
  • Formulated for small breeds
  • Freeze-dried for convenience
  • Adult dog focus
Weakness
  • Small package size
  • Limited protein options

9. Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Beef & Lamb Kibble

Best for Ethical Sourcing
Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Beef & Lamb Kibble
8.7

Open Farm

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Many pet owners want to feed their dogs a raw-inspired diet but are concerned about sourcing and sustainability. Ethically sourced ingredients can provide peace of mind while supporting animal welfare.

Open Farm RawMix uses animal welfare certified meats and combines them with freeze-dried raw and bone broth for a nutrient-rich, grain-free kibble. It’s best for those who value transparent sourcing and want to support responsible farming practices.

  • Animal welfare certified beef, lamb, and pork for ethical sourcing
  • Freeze-dried raw and bone broth for added nutrition and taste
  • Grain-free and no byproducts for sensitive dogs

Compared to conventional kibble or raw foods, this product prioritizes ethical sourcing and ingredient transparency. The tradeoff is a higher price and a focus on specific proteins.

Strength
  • Ethical ingredient sourcing
  • Grain-free formula
  • Includes freeze-dried raw
  • Traceable ingredients
  • Supports sustainable farming
Weakness
  • Higher cost
  • Limited protein selection

9. Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Beef & Lamb Kibble

Best for Ethical Sourcing
Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Beef & Lamb Kibble
8.7

Open Farm

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Many pet owners want to feed their dogs a raw-inspired diet but are concerned about sourcing and sustainability. Ethically sourced ingredients can provide peace of mind while supporting animal welfare.

Open Farm RawMix uses animal welfare certified meats and combines them with freeze-dried raw and bone broth for a nutrient-rich, grain-free kibble. It’s best for those who value transparent sourcing and want to support responsible farming practices.

  • Animal welfare certified beef, lamb, and pork for ethical sourcing
  • Freeze-dried raw and bone broth for added nutrition and taste
  • Grain-free and no byproducts for sensitive dogs

Compared to conventional kibble or raw foods, this product prioritizes ethical sourcing and ingredient transparency. The tradeoff is a higher price and a focus on specific proteins.

Strength
  • Ethical ingredient sourcing
  • Grain-free formula
  • Includes freeze-dried raw
  • Traceable ingredients
  • Supports sustainable farming
Weakness
  • Higher cost
  • Limited protein selection

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Raw Dog Food Brands

Raw dog food comes in many forms, from freeze-dried and air-dried to raw-coated kibble and meal toppers. Each type offers different benefits and tradeoffs, and choosing the right one depends on your dog's needs, your lifestyle, and your priorities around nutrition, convenience, and sourcing. Many owners are unsure how to compare these options or what features truly matter for their pet's health.

Freeze-Dried vs. Air-Dried vs. Raw-Coated Kibble

Choosing between freeze-dried, air-dried, and raw-coated kibble depends on your dog's preferences and your routine. Freeze-dried foods are lightweight and easy to store, while air-dried options offer a chewier texture and longer shelf life. Raw-coated kibble is best for those who want to keep the convenience of dry food but add some raw benefits.

Protein Variety and Ingredient Sourcing

Some dogs thrive on single-protein diets, while others benefit from a variety of animal proteins. Ingredient sourcing is also a growing concern, with some brands emphasizing ethical and transparent practices.

Convenience, Serving Style, and Meal Toppers

Raw dog food can be as simple as scoop-and-serve or require hydration and mixing. Meal toppers provide flexibility for picky eaters or those with sensitive stomachs, letting you boost nutrition without a full diet change.

Final Buying Advice

Finding the right raw dog food comes down to knowing your dog's needs and your own priorities. Balance convenience, nutrition, and ingredient quality to make an informed choice.

FAQ For Raw Dog Food Brands

1. What is the difference between freeze-dried and air-dried raw dog food?

Freeze-dried foods remove moisture at low temperatures to preserve nutrients and flavor, resulting in lightweight, easy-to-store pieces. Air-dried foods use gentle heat to create a chewy, jerky-like texture with similar shelf stability.

2. Can I use raw dog food as a topper instead of a full meal?

Yes, many raw dog foods and toppers are designed to be added to your dog's regular food to boost nutrition and flavor. Adjust the main food portion to avoid overfeeding.

3. How do I know if a raw dog food is complete and balanced?

Check the packaging or product description for statements about complete and balanced nutrition. Some products are formulated as full meals, while others are intended as supplements or toppers.

4. Are raw dog foods safe for all breeds and ages?

Most raw dog foods are suitable for adult dogs, but always check if the formula is appropriate for puppies, seniors, or specific breed sizes. Consult your veterinarian for dogs with health conditions.

5. What should I look for in ingredient sourcing?

Look for brands that disclose sourcing practices, use animal welfare certified meats, and avoid artificial additives. Transparency and traceability are important for quality assurance.

6. Will switching to raw dog food upset my dog's stomach?

Transition gradually by mixing small amounts of the new food with your dog's current diet over several days. Monitor for digestive changes and adjust as needed.

James Vega

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