The Raw Advantage Crafting Superior Raw Dog Food Choices for Your Pup

Raw dog food the big questions

Raw dog food diets have been around as long as dogs and their ancestors have been around. Until the creation of dry dog food and canned dog food, dogs lived off raw meat, scraps and anything they could scavenge.

You may have heard of the old English expression as fit as a butchers dog, which implies that a dog living off meat, bones and offal is likely to be in fine fettle.

However, after the creation and growth of mass-market dog food, domestic dogs diets changed and the feeding of raw dog food became less common. That is until recent years

Raw food for dogs has increased in popularity in recent years; some of it homemade, some produced by cottage industries, but increasingly provided by medium to large companies for a national market.

What are the best raw dog foods?

Some work on the prey model, which is an 80% meat, 10% ground bone, 10% organ meat (offal) blend. Others use the recipes akin to the Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF) model, which includes a small percentage of vegetables.

Both kinds profess an authenticity based on dogs evolutionary diets.

It being something new (but also very old) it has generated a lot of doubt, cynicism and questions alongside its popularity.

We put some of the questions we most frequently get asked by readers to Amy Zalneraitis, the CBO at 5-star-rated We Feed Raw.

Is raw dog food safe for dogs?

AZ: Raw dog food is not only safe for dogs, its what is most biologically appropriate for them. Dogs have thrived on a raw, meat-based diet since the dawn of their existence. While weve domesticated dogs and bred them for their appearance, behavior, and temperament, in form and function, their digestive system is identical to their ancestors. With highly acidic stomachs, sharp, pointy teeth, and short, simple digestive tracts, a dogs biology tells us what they should be eating.

So any raw food will do?

Not all raw pet foods are created equal. We use only high-quality, USDA, human-grade meats. We produce our recipes in a USDA-certified facility and all ingredients must comply with rigid incoming quality assurance specifications. Most importantly, to ensure safe raw feeding in the home, we use HPP (high-pressure processing) a non-thermal pasteurization technology that uses extreme cold water pressure (up to 87,000 psi) to ensure our food is free of pathogens such as Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella.

While not all raw companies in the U.S. do this, we incur the extra cost because it ensures a safe product. Because the process uses pressure rather than heat, there is no change in product taste, texture, or nutritional value.

Is raw dog food safe for humans?

It depends if you mean to eat or handle. While our food is sourced from USDA, human-grade meats, our recipes are not intended for human consumption. Our formulas contain the correct ratio of muscle meat, organ meat, finely ground bone and a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix for full and proper canine nutrition, not full and proper human nutrition.

As for handling, dogs can cope with bacteria in ways that humans cant, but HPP offers extra peace of mind while feeding raw in the home. HPP is used by many reputable raw pet food companies because its a natural way to reduce harmful bacteria while preserving nutrients.

When youre purchasing raw pet food from a reputable company, its easy to feed raw food safely you use the same basic hygiene practices you use when preparing your own raw meats to cook, like washing hands, surfaces, and bowls.

Its more expensive than kibble why should I spend extra?

Because the quality of the food our dogs eat has a direct impact on how well they live. Eighty percent of immune capability is in the gut and low-carb raw diets help to promote healthy gut microflora. Raw food will always be more expensive because quality costs more. Hands down, raw costs more to source and make and its not packed with cheap fillers. While youll pay more upfront with raw, youll save money down the line because youll have a healthier, happier dog and far fewer vet visits.

Why wouldnt I just make raw food at home?

If youre a DIY raw feeder, amazing! Great job! But weve found that many pet parents dont have the time, energy, interest, or resources to make properly balanced raw food at home. Thats where we come in. We plan, portion, package, and deliver. All you have to do is thaw and feed. No concern that your dog is missing important nutrients, no trips to the pet food store, no guesswork.

Do dogs need vegetables?

Our recipes are based on the Prey Model Raw diet: approximately 80% muscle meat (with connective tissue and fat), 10% organ meat (all of which is secreting organ), 10% finely ground raw meaty bones plus a small amount of a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix.

Some of our customers will choose to add veggies to the meals, and thats great, as long as they dont overdo it. If your dog does well with a bit of extra fiber, our Ph.D. nutritionist suggests around a 5-8% veggie inclusion. With dogs, plant matter usually passes out as part of the stool, undigested because their bodies have to work much harder to break it down.

We usually recommend pureeing veggies: dogs do not have natural cellulase, an enzyme that helps to break down fiber, so pureeing them will help aid in digestion.

Do I need to add supplements?

Not with our food. Our food is complete and balanced as is. No need to add supplements. That said, its totally fine to add a small amount of your preferred probiotic, prebiotic, fish oil or omega-3 oil, etc. We just advise that pet parents dont add a multivitamin, as we already include a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix to our recipes.

When it comes to adding other whole foods, like canned pumpkin, phytoplankton, sardines, green-lipped mussels, etc, these can be wonderful, healthy additions and we totally support those as toppers to our meals.

Are there any proven benefits to a raw diet?

A dogs digestive system is identical to its ancestors. They didnt lose the ability to digest their evolutionary diet just because kibble was invented mere seconds ago in geologic time. Therefore, isnt it prudent to imitate what nature provided as a guideline?

As for specific studies, were excited about the work being done at the University of Helsinki on the benefits of a raw dog food diet. Led by veterinary scientist Dr. Anna-Hielm Bjrkman (DVM and PhD), The Dog Risk Study is a university-led, cruelty-free study using 16,000 dogs of all breeds and ages.

The program has already proven that puppies fed raw (vs kibble) have fewer environmental allergies as adults and a reduced risk of developing IBD later in life. Some of the other specific studies its exploring include hip dysplasia, GI issues, chronic ear infections, cancer and tumors.

How do I transition my dog to raw food?

Our intro plan helps to gradually introduce dogs to raw food over a 10-day period. The detailed directions instruct pet parents on how to mix their pups current food with We Feed Raw and increase the percentage of We Feed Raw over the course of 9 days until theyre feeding 100% raw.

What are the best raw dog foods?

Will there be side effects?

While some dogs transition to raw with no issues, other dogs with sensitive stomachs may require a bit more TLC and time. Its all normal. The long-term effects of a healthy, species-appropriate diet make it all worth it: smaller, less smelly stools, shiny skin and coat, cleaner teeth, improved digestion, stronger immune system, better weight control the list goes on.

Can I mix raw food with cooked food?

Yes, absolutely. We encourage pet parents to feed what works for their budget and lifestyle. Adding even 25% raw food to your dogs diet can have life-changing health benefits. Raw feeding isnt an all-or-nothing approach. Using it as a base, mixer, or topper with cooked food or kibble can still have amazing overall health benefits.

Why are some vets anti-raw food?

Were seeing a real shift with conventional vets becoming more raw-friendly. In fact, we work with many conventional vets who not only recommend raw to their clients but feed it to their own pets.

So while the tide is changing, here are some reasons that conventional vets may not be pro-raw: 1) Theyre not taught about raw diets in vet school; 2) Theyve seen homemade raw diets go wrong (imbalanced, missing important nutrients, incorrect ratios); 3) They think its a danger to the humans feeding it. However, serious and reputable raw brands in the U.S., like our company, use HPP to neutralize pathogens for safe feeding in the home.

Is raw dog food human-grade?

Raw dog food is meant to be fed raw and usually contains bone, and therefore cannot technically be labeled human-grade as a whole. So while our food is sourced from high-quality human-grade meats and produced in a USDA-certified facility, we do not make the human-grade claim on our labels.

Are bones and offal actually good for dogs?

Not only are they good for dogs, theyre essential to a complete and balanced raw diet. Organ meats, particularly liver, are packed with vitamins and minerals. Bones are an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus.

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6 Best Raw Dog Foods in Canada 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Giving raw dog food to your pup is a personal choice that can be motivated by several reasons. For example, some dog owners are gradually abandoning conventional food because they want to offer their pets more natural and less processed food. Also, since this type of food contains fewer ingredients, it may be easier to identify what is causing intolerances or allergies in a dog. Raw foods have the advantage of being low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat, which can be beneficial for some dogs.

That said, before diving into these reviews of the best raw dog foods in Canada, we recommend talking with your veterinarian. Raw food is not appropriate for all dogs, so its best to discuss it with your vet before making any change in your pets diet.

A Quick Comparison of Our Winners (2024)

The 6 Best Raw Dog Foods in Canada

1. Big Country Raw Dog Food Breeder Blend Best Overall

Big Country Raw Dog Foods launched its products in Canada in 2012 and has since established its reputation as one of the top raw dog food suppliers in Ontario and Vancouver. It offers several varieties of products, such as complete dinners, signature blends, meal replacement bones, and cooked and dehydrated foods. In addition, several flavors are offered, such as chicken, turkey, and beef, and there are even exotic options, such as bison and kangaroo!

All the fresh, whole ingredients used to make the recipes are delivered to the Big Country Raw facility, where the team provides quality control for all their products. Big Country Raw foods are also endorsed by veterinarians and sold in several veterinary offices across Canada. Finally, this company is committed to the welfare of dogs and proudly supports dog rescue and working programs. All these reasons make Big Country Raw the best overall raw dog food in Canada.

The only downside is that delivery is only available in Canada (for now!), and the products are quite expensive, especially if you have several pups to feed.

• Tripe makes this mix palatable for dogs of all ages
• Hormone and antibiotics free
• Pasture-raised beef tripe
• Recommended by veterinarians in clinics across Canada
• Suitable for all life stages

• Only ships to Canada
• Expensive

2. Zeal Canada Air-Dried Dog Food Best Value

Zeal Canada Air-Dried Dog Food Beef Plus is the best raw dog food in Canada for the money, especially for small breeds or older, less active dogs that dont need too much food. Keep in mind that raw or freeze-dried dog food is generally more expensive than conventional food, so this option may be less suitable if you are on a tight budget.

However, you will get what you pay for if you choose Zeal, as this reputable Canadian company offers high-quality air-dried dog food. These tasty recipes are made only of human-grade ingredients and of local origin. They contain 96% locally sourced beef and beef organs, pumpkin, vitamins, and minerals. There are no traces of fillers, grain, antibiotics, preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors in the formulas, which can be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

• More affordable than most other dehydrated raw dog foods
• Made with 96% pure meat and organ meats
• Limited-ingredient list to help dogs with sensitive stomachs and/or allergies
• Provides formulas for each life stage
• Fully shelf stable
• Includes freeze-dried pumpkin for better digestion

• Not a budget-friendly option for large dog breeds

3. Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food Premium Choice

Open Farm freeze-dried raw dog food is a premium option that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. For one thing, all the recipes are made from meat, offal, and bones from chickens that are raised ethically and cruelty-free. They contain no artificial colors, by-products, wheat, corn, or potatoes. They are full of probiotics and fiber from fresh foods like pumpkin and blueberries. Additionally, the company enables dog owners to trace the origin of each ingredient using the lot number found on the packaging.

However, in addition to its steep price, the main disadvantage of this high-quality freeze-dried raw food is that it comes in a loose bag. Therefore, food can sometimes be smushed during transport.

• Meats come from audited higher welfare farms
• All ingredients are 100% traceable
• Includes veggies, coconut oil, and blueberries
• Even picky eaters seem to enjoy the texture and taste
• No GMOs, artificial flavors, or preservatives

• Costly, especially if you have big gluttonous dogs
• Food can be crushed during transport

4. Natures Variety Instinct Raw Boost

Natures Variety Instinct Raw Boost is a great option if you want to slowly transition your pup to an all-raw diet. This food includes dry kibble made with high-quality ingredients and is mixed with bites of freeze-dried raw meat. This enables your puppy to gradually get used to raw food while providing complete and balanced nutrition. With cage-free chicken as the first ingredient, your pup will have all the protein that they need to support their growth.

Instinct Raw Boost also contains DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which is an omega-3 fatty acid important for the neural development of puppies. The great taste and texture of this food also seem to be appealing to even the most finicky puppies. However, some owners have reported that their dog suffers from stomach upset when switching to this food, so monitor your pets behavior after eating this food, especially for the first few days.

• Made from cage-free chicken and whole-food ingredients
• Some owners have noticed that their pups have a shinier, softer coat
• No soy, corn, wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives
• Most puppies seem to enjoy the flavor and texture

• Expensive
• May cause stomach upset in some dogs

5. Dr. Harveys Raw Vibrance Dog Food

Dr. Harveys Raw Vibrance is a grain-free base mix that novice raw food feeders can use to create balanced homemade raw meals. Its easy to use, but you have to add your choice of raw protein and oil (like flaxseed, hemp, or sesame oil) to the mix. The premix is a blend of all-natural, human-grade, non-GMO ingredients like broccoli, green beans, squash, carrots, blueberries, spinach, chia seeds, and raw goats milk powder. There is no trace of fillers, by-products, or artificial flavors or preservatives.

Basically, this makes a great base for a raw dog food meal, as long as you follow health and safety rules when adding the raw protein of your choice.

However, keep in mind that you must add the cost of other ingredients (high-quality protein and oil) to the already expensive premix, which may not suit all budgets. Also, you need to calculate the right number of scoops to feed your pup based on their weight and mix it with other ingredients, so the preparation is a bit time-consuming.

Overall, though, Dr. Harveys Raw Vibrance is a good option when youre venturing into the world of raw dog food and need help creating balanced, healthy meals for your furry friend.

• Non-GMO certified
• Minimally processed
• No fillers, preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy
• Made with 100% whole food ingredients
• Ease of use
• Human-grade ingredients

• Requires the addition of raw protein and oil
• Costly because other ingredients need to be added
• You need to calculate how much to use based on your dogs weight

6. Healthybud Freeze-Dried Turkey Patties

Healthybud Turkey Patties are freeze-dried, meaning that they have been dehydrated at very low temperatures in order to stabilize the product while preserving a large part of the nutrients. Therefore, it is a good alternative for dog owners who do not want to switch their dogs to a 100% raw diet right away.

Indeed, freeze-dried foods are generally closest to the composition of raw foods and are a good compromise between raw foods and classic dry kibbles. In short, Healthybud freeze-dried foods offer all the benefits of raw foods without any of the hassle. However, the freeze-drying process is quite expensive, hence the hefty price tag of this dog food option.

• The patties dont have any strong smells
• High-quality, limited-ingredient food
• Can be served as a complete meal or as a nutritional food topper

• Extremely costly for the amount that you get
• Many crumbly pieces in some bags

Buyers Guide: Important Things to Consider Before Switching to Raw Dog Food

What Are the Benefits of Raw-Meat Diets for Dogs?

Raw food feeding has become increasingly popular among pet owners, especially Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF). Proponents claim that this type of feeding provides a plethora of health benefits for our four-legged friends, such as:

• Silkier and shinier coat
• Improved longevity
• Better digestive health
• Better palatability
• Better oral health

Most of these observations, however, remain subjective and are not exclusive to raw food; it is entirely possible to achieve these kinds of results with good-quality conventional food.

Furthermore, some of these claims are based on scientific studies on the effect of heat or dry food production processes on the nutritional quality of the ingredients. As for the argument of digestibility, it finds its origin in the data proving the increased digestibility of certain specific raw diets. Although these studies are scientifically sound, they do not prove the practical benefits of raw food to animals.

In short, there is currently no robust evidence proving that raw pet food is superior to conventional food. Also, its important to know that the long-term effects of raw feeding are not yet documented.

What Are the Risks of Raw Meat Diets for Dogs?

Although there is no scientific consensus on the superiority of raw food over conventional food, there is a great deal of data demonstrating the risks of this type of diet.

One of these risks, which has been documented many times, concerns the possible contamination of food by dangerous bacteria, including salmonella, clostridium, and E. coli. While these contaminations rarely inconvenience healthy adults, humans, or animals, small children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised can become very ill or even die.

Another important fact to mention is that various veterinary associations discourage the inclusion of raw or undercooked animal-source protein in dog and cat diets, including the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), and American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that raw diets, especially raw meat diets, are not recommended because of the risk for salmonellosis and other infections that can affect pets and their owners.

So, Should You Feed Your Dog Raw or Dry Food?

Raw dog food may provide certain benefits but is not necessarily suitable for all dogs. Therefore, it is essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons associated with this type of diet before undertaking the transition.

You also need to consider the time, organization, and cost associated with raw feeding, especially if you want to prepare your dogs meals yourself. It is strongly recommended to consult a veterinary nutritionist who can accompany you and help you provide your precious pooch with everything that they need.

That said, the raw dog food options on this list come in several forms, most often freeze-dried, which preserves a large part of the nutrients while limiting the risk of contamination. However, even though these options are more convenient and can provide complete and balanced nutrition for your pup, it is still recommended that you seek the advice of a veterinary nutritionist before taking the plunge.

Conclusion

Choosing a raw meat diet for your pet should be an informed and well-considered decision. If you opt for this type of food, we hope that these reviews will help you find the best choice for your beloved dogs needs.

As the best overall raw dog food in Canada, the Big Country Raw Breeder Blend has all the important things, including product quality control and veterinarian approval. If you are looking for a more affordable option without compromising on quality, then Zeal Canada Air-Dried Dog Food should be your choice. Open Farm Freeze Dried falls in a higher price bracket, but its traceable ingredients and human-raised meat will appeal to concerned dog owners. If you have a new puppy and want to give them an alternative to conventional dog food, Natures Variety Instinct Raw Boost will do the trick.

Featured Image Credit: Kira_Yan, Shutterstock