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Two years ago, two of Lady Gaga’s three French Bulldogs were stolen after her dog walker was shot. The singer was outside of the country filming House of Gucci when it happened, but she made a social media plea for the return of her beloved canines. She promised a $500,000 “no questions asked” reward to whoever returned the dogs.

Soon after, Jennifer McBride returned Koji and Gustav. At first, officers thought she seemed “uninvolved and unassociated,” but they later learned that she was linked to the people who stole the dogs. Yet, McBride still thinks she deserves the reward money despite it all.

McBride Sues Lady Gaga

Five suspects were arrested for reasons related to the theft almost two years ago now, but it’s not over yet. One of those individuals was McBride, who was charged with “accessory to attempted murder” and “receiving stolen property.” She was sentenced to two years of probation.

Despite being linked to the attempted murder and dog theft, McBride is still angry that Lady Gaga never handed over the reward money. Gaga had posted that she would pay $500k to whoever returned her dogs, but according to McBride, Gaga never followed through. So, McBride is now suing the celebrity for not doing what she promised.

“This case is quite simple,” McBride’s lawyer said in a statement. “Lady Gaga made a reward offer to induce performance. She desperately wanted her dogs returned, and my client took action to fulfill Lady Gaga’s wish. My client had absolutely no involvement in the theft of the dogs. She loves dogs and was glad to participate in their safe return. She is legally entitled to and deserves the reward.”

Asking for More

McBride is suing Lady Gaga for “breach of contract,” “fraud by false promise,” and “fraud by misrepresentation.” However, she expects more than just the reward money from the pop star. She wants to triple the amount to $1.5 million because she said she has faced “financial damages,” “pain and suffering,” “mental anguish,” and “loss of enjoyment of life” due to not receiving the promised money.

McBride and her lawyer believe that Gaga never intended to pay the reward. If Lady Gaga suffers financially from this lawsuit, deputy district attorney Michele Hanisee said prosecutors could seek restitution from McBride.

“It was clear from the evidence presented to the grand jury that Ms. McBride knew the dogs had been stolen in a violent robbery in which Ryan Fischer had been grievously injured,” Hanisee said to NBC. “It was also clear from the evidence that McBride had known at least two of her co-conspirators for years.”

This lawsuit is a messy situation, so it’s unclear what the outcome will be. Luckily, Lady Gaga’s Frenchies are still happy and safe with their mom despite everything that has happened.

Featured Image: Instagram

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All dogs have descended from wolves or other wild canids and many still maintain their primitive looks and temperaments today.

Although it’s been centuries since dogs became domesticated, recent DNA studies have brought to light which of the recognized breeds are the most closely related to wolves and their ancestors. The study included 414 dogs from 85 different breeds and the results might surprise you! You can read more about the study at National Geographic.

#1 – Shih Tzu

Although this breed looks nothing similar to wolves and other wild canids, the Shih Tzu is genetically one of the domestic breeds most closely related to wolves. It is thought that this companion breed originated in China around 800 BC.

#2 – Pekingese

Like the Shih Tzu, this lapdog hails from China and despite its appearance and temperament, is one of the least diverged from its ancestors. This breed has been owned and adored by members of the Chinese Imperial Palace for centuries.

#3 – Samoyed

A northern spitz-type from Russia, the Samoyed looks more believable when it comes to wild ancestors. This breed is social but primitive, still used for sledding and reindeer herding in its native land.

 

#4 – Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is known for being a watchdog among Buddhist monasteries in its native Tibet. Researchers believe this breed originated roughly 4,000 years ago and its genetic makeup proves this to be true. Regardless of their appearance, the breed is one of the most closely related to wolves.

#5 – Tibetan Terrier

As its name suggests, this breed originates from Tibet, but it is not a true terrier. Tibetan Terriers have been kept as purebred dogs in their native home for over 2,000 years.

#6 – Saluki

The Saluki is a sighthound native to the Middle East and known for traveling the Silk Road with caravans and nomadic tribes. Salukis are thought to be one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, with ancient rock art showing Saluki-like dogs as far back as 10,000 BC. Genetically, the breed is still very closely related to its wild ancestors.

 

#7 – Afghan Hound

Like the Saluki, the Afghan Hound is a sighthound that is also considered to be one of the oldest domestic dog breeds in existence. Genetic testing from this study proved they have little divergence from wolves.

#8 – Siberian Husky

This northern breed hails from Siberia where it has been and is still used for sledding. Not only does the breed resemble its wild ancestors, it has changed relatively little genetically over time. Siberian Huskies allowed nomadic tribes to survive in the cold, harsh environment of the Russian north.

#9 – Shar-Pei

Like most other Chinese breeds, the Shar-Pei is genetically very ancient. Despite its appearance, its genes are very similar to those of wolves. Although the exact history of the breed is uncertain, there are pottery images depicting Shar-Pei-like dogs as far back as 206 BC.

 

#10 – Basenji

The Basenji is a small- to medium-sized hunting dog from Africa. Like other wild dogs and wolves, the Basenji is known for its yodeling rather than barking. Genetically, the breed is considered ancient and is closely related to its wild ancestors.

#11 – Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the Japanese breeds and is also a very ancient dog. It was originally used to hunt rabbits and birds, but is most commonly seen as a family companion today. Its DNA makeup suggests it is one of the oldest living breeds.

#12 – Akita

Often considered a larger version of the Shiba Inu, the Akita is a guardian dog from Japan. Like the Shiba, it is genetically very ancient and similar to its wild ancestors. Although the Japanese and American Akitas have become two very different types, and are ever considered separate breeds in some countries, they are still relatively similar.

 

#13 – Alaskan Malamute

This large northern breed was developed for sledding and cart pulling and it is still used for this function today. With its wolf-like appearance, it doesn’t surprise many to learn that this Alaskan native is very closely related to its wild ancestors.

#14 – Chow Chow

Of all Chinese breeds, the Chow Chow looks most closely like its wild ancestors. Although still very different, the breed is genetically ancient and considered to be one of the oldest breeds still in existence. They have primitive temperaments and were used as guard dogs as far back as 150 BC.

Doggy Must Haves

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Many pet parents are turning to the best raw dog food brands for their pet’s dietary needs. Kibble might be the convenient option, but it often lacks the protein and nutrients that dogs benefit from. Raw dog food is a diet that can help keep your dog in shape while also appealing to picky eaters.

However, switching to raw dog food requires some research to make sure you choose a recipe that’s ideal for your dog’s needs. Consider your dog’s weight, health conditions, allergies, and preferences when deciding what kind of raw food to get them.

What is Raw Dog Food?

“Raw dog food” usually describes any type of dog food that uses raw, uncooked ingredients, such as meat, organs, bones, fruits, and vegetables. It’s designed to mimic the high-protein diets of your dog’s ancestors.

In the wild, it’s common for canines to consume whole animals after hunting them, bones and all. So, your dog’s ancestors ate food that was high in protein with minimal carbohydrates. Dogs have changed a lot since their time in the wild, but they still benefit from a diet that contains lots of real meat.

Most dog parents feed their dogs dry food, which is high in carbohydrates to give it a crunchy texture and increase its shelf life. Kibble often has more carbs than dogs are meant to ingest, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems in some cases. Thus, many dog parents are now trying raw dog food to give their pups meals that are higher in real, nutritious animal products.

Raw dog food is usually served in frozen or freeze dried forms.

Related: 10 Best Puppy Dog Food

 Raw Dog Food vs. Fresh Dog Food

Fresh dog food is another type of dog food that’s growing in popularity due to its high protein and quality ingredients. Both raw and fresh food contain whole ingredients, including meat, fruits, and vegetables. However, the main difference is that fresh food goes through a cooking process while raw food doesn’t.

If you’d rather serve your dog fresh food instead of raw food, check out the best fresh dog food brands.

Can You Make Your Own Raw Dog Food Recipes?

Yes, many dog parents choose to create their own raw dog food recipes as opposed to buying a brand. However, this can be risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. You’ll need to ensure your dog gets a proper balance of protein, fat, carbs, and nutrients. If you’re not confident you can prepare that for your dog, you can talk to a vet or canine nutritionist for advice.

Even though creating raw dog food recipes is tricky for beginners, it can help you feel more confident about your dog’s health in the long run. You’ll know exactly what’s going into your dog’s meals, so you can cater those ingredients to fit your dog’s needs, such as including their favorite foods and excluding their allergies.

However, raw dog food brands are generally safer and more convenient for dog parents using raw food for the first time. They’ll already provide a nutritionally-balanced meal for your furry friend, so there are less risks involved.

Raw Dog Food Pros and Cons

Like all types of dog food, there are benefits and downsides to raw dog food. Here are some pros and cons to consider.

Benefits of Raw Dog Food

• Uses limited, high-quality ingredients
• Appeals to picky eaters
• Improves digestion
• Reduces allergy symptoms
• Improves skin and coat health
• Leads to firmer stools
• Assists with weight management
• Increases energy levels

Downsides of Raw Dog Food

• It’s expensive
• Has a higher risk of spreading bacteria
• Can be harder to store
• Takes more time to prepare and serve

Best Raw Dog Food Brands

Below are some of the best raw dog food brands on the market to help you decide which one is the best choice for your furry friend.

1. Darwin’s Natural Pet Products

Darwin’s is a subscription-based raw dog food brand, making it one of the best raw dog food delivery services. Customers start by filling out a questionnaire about their dog, and then, the company will suggest the best raw food to fit their pup’s needs. The food is auto-shipped to your door frozen for no additional cost. So, you will have to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving it to your dog.

There are three main types of raw formulas: Natural Selections, BioLogics, and Intelligent Design. Natural Selections are made using free-range meats and organic vegetables while BioLogic uses conventionally-sourced ingredients at a more affordable price. Then, Intelligent Design has formulas catered to specific health conditions. There are many protein options available, including chicken, duck, turkey, beef, and lamb. Canine nutritionists helped formulate the recipes.

All of Darwin’s food is high in animal protein, with over 70% protein in each meal. This food can ship nationwide in the United States, but you won’t find it in any pet stores. Many dog parents love this brand because it offers balanced raw diets in easy-to-open packages. The only downside is that this food is pricier than other popular raw food brands.

Benefits:

• Offers personalized feeding plans
• Variety of meal options
• You can choose between different ingredient sourcing options
• Free shipping to your door
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Recipes formulated with the help of canine nutritionists

2. We Feed Raw

We Feed Raw is another dog food company that creates meal plans that cater to your dog’s needs. All you have to do is answer some questions about your pet, and then the company will suggest the ideal food for them. During the questionnaire, the company takes into account your dog’s age, weight, breed, allergies, and current diet.

This company offers raw dog food in several proteins, including chicken, beef, turkey, duck, lamb, and venison. All the formulas are created by a PhD animal nutritionist who has over 30 years of experience in the industry. The food is always high in protein, so the first four to five ingredients come from real animal products. All the meat comes from animals raised on farms in the United States and New Zealand.

This company only uses USDA-certified and human-grade meats for its products. The food is shipped to your door at no additional cost. It can be shipped to any of the 48 contiguous states. The food ships cold, and it can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. In the freezer, it can last for up to six months.

Benefits:

• Offers personalized feeding plans
• Free shipping to your door
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Only uses human-grade meats
• Formulated by PhD animal nutritionist
• iHeartDogs Offer: Save 20% on your first order

3. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties

If you’re not looking to commit to a questionnaire or subscription to get raw dog food, Stella & Chewy’s is a more convenient option. Their raw food comes in the form of freeze dried raw patties, which helps give it a longer shelf life while still preserving the nutrients of raw food. The company offers a wide variety of protein options, including chicken, lamb, pork, rabbit, beef, turkey, and venison.

Since the food is in patties, it’s easy to portion out your dog’s meals. You can serve the freeze dried patties as-is, but Stella & Chewy’s recommends rehydrating them to give your dog some added moisture. To rehydrate, you can crumble the food and add a 1/4 cup of water for every two patties. These patties can be used as full meals, but many pet parents use them as food toppers instead.

95% of the formula includes meat, organs, and bones. The recipes also have organic fruits and vegetables in them. The ingredients used can benefit skin and coat health, heart health, and digestion. The patties are also grain-free to cater to dogs with allergies. This company’s products are sold in pet supply stores across the United States, and the food is formulated in USA facilities.

Benefits:

• Easy to portion
• Easy to store
• Several ways to serve
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Variety of options

4. Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals

Instinct offers another one of the best raw freeze dried dog foods due to its convenience. It comes in small, freeze dried pellets that are about the size of kibble pieces. You can feed the pieces as-is or you can mix them with warm water, which is ideal for making sure your pup gets enough moisture. These freeze dried pieces can be served as full meals or food toppers.

85% of the formula includes meat, organs, and bones. Then, the rest contains non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals. Despite looking like kibble, this dog food has never been cooked and it’s minimally processed to preserve the nutrients. All the dog food is made in USA kitchens. This food comes with either beef, chicken, or lamb as the primary protein.

The freeze dried raw meals are the more popular choice, but there are also frozen raw meals available. If you’re not ready to switch completely to raw, Instinct also offers “Raw Boost” recipes, which are kibble mixed with freeze dried raw pieces.

Benefits:

• Convenient to store
• Several ways to serve
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Other types of raw food are also available

5. Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw

Open Farm offers a wide variety of dog food, including dry, wet, fresh, and raw. Their raw dog food is freeze dried to make it easier to store and serve to your pup. Like other freeze dried options, it can be used as a full meal or a topper. Freeze dried raw food can be pricy, so many pet parents save money by mixing it will kibble.

The freeze dried pieces are about the size of kibble, so they’re ready to serve when you pour them out of the bag. If you’re worried your dog isn’t ingesting enough liquid, you can mix warm water with the food. Otherwise, make sure clean water is accessible to your dog while they’re eating.

There are six formulas available: surf & turf, grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb, homestead turkey, harvest chicken, and farmer’s table pork. Each recipe contains meat from humanely-raised animals, along with organic fruits and vegetables. On Open Farm’s website, the source of every ingredient is listed.

Benefits:

• Convenient to store
• Can be served in several ways
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Lots of protein options
• Lists ingredient sourcing on the website

6. Sojos Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food

Sojos’ raw dog food is designed to provide complete raw meals in a convenient form. Their recipes are ideal for dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. They currently have five formulas: turkey, beef, lamb, chicken, and senior turkey & salmon. They also have “Mix-a-Meal” recipes that are raw dog food toppers.

To serve this food, you need to mix and measure the correct amount of food and water as directed on the bag. Then, you’ll let the food soak in the water for 15 minutes before feeding it to your dog. The preparation time is a bit longer than it is for other brands, but the extra soaking helps activate the nutrients and enzymes in the food. Every pound of Sojos dog food makes up to five pounds of food when rehydrated.

Sojos uses ingredient lists that are “short and sweet” to avoid allergic reactions in dogs. The USDA-approved animal protein is paired with human-grade, air-dried fruits and vegetables. All the formulas are made in kitchens in the United States.

Benefits:

• Uses USDA-approved and human-grade ingredients
• Rehydrating activates the nutrients
• Variety of options
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Easy to store

7. Wysong Raw Dog Food

Wysong offers a few different types of raw dog food diets. Their original raw diet is called Archetype, which is a bag of freeze dried raw dog food that needs to be rehydrated before serving. Some recipes of the Archetype food also come in the form of burgers for customers that want larger quantities. They also sell “UnCanny” wet food recipes, which are designed to be mixed with the Archetype formulas.

This brand’s raw food comes in chicken, rabbit, quail, and beef. All options are high in natural protein and fat. They also contain plant nutrients, prebiotics, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. These “Non-Thermal” raw dog food options are designed to mimic your dog’s ancestral diet by focusing on high protein. The food is only sold in small packages that preserve nutrients, so it can make a great food topper if you don’t want to use it as a meal.

If you like this brand, but your dog isn’t a fan of their raw food, they also have dry and wet food formulas. All the products can be ordered online or purchased at select pet supply stores.

Benefits:

• A variety of raw dog food options
• Contains lots of nutrients
• Packaging preserves nutrients
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Several ways to serve it
• iHeartDogs Offer: 10% off healthy food with the code 10OFFWYSONG

8. Primal Freeze Dried Raw Nuggets

Primal’s freeze dried raw dog food comes in the form of soft nuggets. The nuggets make it easy to portion out meals for your dog based on their weight. To turn the freeze dried pieces into healthy meals, you can crumble up the nuggets once they’re portioned and add warm water, broth, or goat milk to it. You’ll mix the chosen liquid with the food to rehydrate it, making it more nutritious and flavorful for your dog.

These freeze dried nuggets make great full meals or food toppers. They come in a variety of protein options, including beef, lamb, pork, duck, venison, and rabbit. This company also offers some frozen raw options.

All the ingredients used in primal foods are sourced from sustainable ranchers and inspected by the USDA. In addition to quality animal protein, they also have organic fruits and vegetables, along with non-synthetic vitamins and minerals. Overall, this is a convenient choice for dog parents who are new to raw dog food. However, some customers complained that the nuggets were crumbled when they received them.

Benefits:

• Comes in a variety of proteins
• Easy to portion
• Can be served in several ways
• Packed with nutrients
• Easy to store and travel with

9. Raw Wild LLC

Raw Wild is an online raw dog food subscription service. The food will ship to your door in a Styrofoam cooler, and it should be stored in the freezer to preserve its freshness. When preparing to serve the food to your dog, you should thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can get a discount if you order the trial for the first time.

All of Raw Wild’s food is made from wild elk and deer. Over 99% of the food includes meat and bones from wild animals. The company chose not to include organs because they didn’t want to add organs that could potentially contaminate the wild food. The rest of the food is made up of essential vitamins and minerals.

Raw Wild is a bit pricier than many other raw dog food brands because they have a limited stock since all the meat comes from wild animals. They hand-pack and hand-inspect every product to ensure it’s the ideal quality. All the products meet AAFCO standards, and the meat is processed in a facility that also processes elk and deer for human consumption. So, the standards and level of quality are always high with this brand.

Benefits:

• Only uses meat from wild animals
• Over 99% of the food is meat and bones
• Avoids organs to reduce the risk of contamination
• Subscription ships to your door
• Uses rare types of human-grade meat

10. Halo Meal Bites Freeze Dried Raw

Halo Freeze Dried Raw Meal Bites used to be called TruDog Feed Me Freeze Dried Dog Food. The branding changed in July 2022. Even though the name and packaging are different, the food still has the same great recipe and taste. The company freeze-dries raw ingredients into crunchy pellets to lock in the natural nutrients and flavors.

The food can be served as-is, but the company recommends rehydrating it to give your dog extra moisture. If you don’t rehydrate the food, make sure your pup has access to clean water. The first several ingredients of the food are animal meat and organs, along with vitamins and nutrients. Looking at the ingredient list might not sound appealing to you, but it’s healthy and mouth-watering for dogs.

You can choose between beef, turkey, whitefish, or turkey & duck recipes. Some dog parents aren’t fond of this food because it has strong odors, but that means that it usually interests picky eaters.

Benefits:

• Convenient to store
• Locks in natural nutrients and flavors
• Multiple ways to serve
• Appeals to picky dogs
• Good for dogs with sensitive stomachs

11. Raw Paws Pet Food

Raw Paws has the best variety when it comes to raw dog food. They offer raw food recipes in patties or ground-up. They have products with and without fruits and vegetables, and they even offer raw meat on its own. So, you can either order pre-made raw recipes or you can order simpler products and add ingredients to them to create customizable meals for your dog.

They offer chicken, beef, turkey, salmon, lamb, goat, and venison products. So, there are plenty of products to choose from regardless of your dog’s preferences. Most of the food needs to be stored in the freezer, and then you can thaw it in the fridge when you prepare for your dog’s upcoming meals. There are several raw treat options too. The food can all be ordered online and shipped to your door. It’s not available in any pet supply stores.

The wide selection of raw dog food products can be overwhelming for new customers, but it allows you to choose the one that is best for your dog. All the products use ingredients sourced from “responsible and ethical farms.” One of the best parts of this company is that they ship the products quickly so they don’t thaw during shipping. US orders placed on weekdays ship out on the same day, and weekend orders ship out the following Monday.

Benefits:

• Wide variety of products are available
• Fast shipping
• Full meals, parts of raw meals, and treats available
• Good for picky eaters
• Offers free meal plans

Transitioning to Raw Dog Food

It’s always a good idea to do a gradual transition when switching your dog to a new food because it helps prevent tummy troubles. Transitioning is especially important when there’s a drastic change in diet, such as from kibble to raw dog food.

Here’s our recommended transitioning process:

• Days 1 to 3: Serve 80% old food with 20% new raw food
• Days 4 to 7: Serve 50% old food with 50% new food
• Days 7 to 14: Serve 20% old food with 80% new food
• Day 15: 100% new food

Since raw food is much different than dry dog food, it’s best to have a slow transition. It should take at least one to two weeks before you feed your dog a 100% raw diet. If you know your dog is sensitive to new foods, you may want to make the transition even more gradual. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your dog’s health.

Related: 9 Best Dry Dog Foods

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions dog parents switching to raw food ask.

Are Raw Dog Food Diets Safe?

Yes, raw diets are safe for dogs, as long as they provide a balanced diet. Dogs have shorter digestive tracts and higher acidity in their digestive systems, allowing them to tolerate bacteria better than humans. So, as long as you choose a brand with an ideal balance of ingredients and follow through with a gradual transition, your dog will be unlikely to face issues.

How Will Raw Food Change My Dog’s Stool?

Once a dog gets used to a raw diet, their stool will likely be smaller and firmer. However, during the transition period, you may notice loose stool as their body adjusts to the new diet.

Can Dogs Get Salmonella From Raw Chicken?

Yes, dogs can get Salmonella from raw food, but dogs can handle a higher level of bacteria than humans can. So, raw dog food poses a bigger risk for humans than it does for dogs. To prevent the spread of bacteria, always wash your hands and anything else the raw food touched after preparing your dog’s meals.

Are Bones in Raw Dog Food Dangerous?

No, raw bones are beneficial for your dog’s health. They don’t splinter the way cooked bones do, so they’re safer to eat. However, raw bones aren’t recommended for puppies under six months because their teeth aren’t strong enough to chew them.

Can Dogs With Allergies Eat Raw Food?

Yes, raw dog food is generally better for dogs with allergies because it has fewer ingredients. So, it’s easier to keep track of what ingredients your dog is eating so you can avoid potential allergens.

Can You Switch Between Meat Sources When Serving Raw Dog Food?

Yes, once your dog has transitioned to a raw diet, you can switch between meat sources regularly. Using a variety of meat sources is great for your dog’s health and keeps them interested in the food, as long as you don’t use meat they’re allergic to.

Is Raw Dog Food Grain-Free?

Yes, most raw dog food recipes are grain-free because raw food naturally doesn’t have grains. So, it can be great for dogs who have difficulties digesting grains.

Where Can You Buy Raw Dog Food?

Depending on the brand, most raw dog food can be ordered online or purchased at a pet supply store. Dehydrated raw food is easier to find at local stores than frozen or refrigerated food.

How Should You Defrost Raw Dog Food?

The best way to thaw frozen raw dog food is to move it to the fridge 12 to 24 hours before you plan to serve it.

Can Raw Dog Food Be Cooked?

Yes, you can cook raw dog food, but it’s not intended to be cooked. Cooking it will remove some of the extra nutrients that raw food is known for. If there are raw bones in the food, cooking them could cause them to splinter and become dangerous.

Why Isn’t Raw Dog Food More Popular?

The number of dog parents using raw diets is increasing, but it’s not very popular for a few reasons. The biggest reason is cost. A lot of pet parents aren’t able to commit extra money and time to preparing dog food, so sticking to kibble is the easier choice. Also, many pet parents are unaware of the benefits and the variety of options when it comes to raw dog food.

Dog parents looking to try raw food without wanting to switch the meal entirely can try raw food toppers.

Is Raw Dog Food Right for Your Pup?

If you’re looking for a healthier diet for your dog, the best raw dog food brands should be considered. Raw dog food can be great for picky eaters or dogs who aren’t getting enough nutrients in their current diets. However, raw food can be pricy and may take more time to prepare for your dog, so it’s not for everyone. If you don’t want to have to keep your dog’s food cold, you can opt for some of the best freeze dried raw dog food for easier storage.

No matter what brand you choose, the best raw dog food diet can help your pup have a healthier lifestyle. Any of the brands on this list are great options to switch to, as long as you provide a gradual transition.

Not sure if raw dog food is right for you? Check out our list of Best Dog Foods to see some of the other options available to you and your pup.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

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iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

What we feed our dogs can have a big impact on their overall health. There are hundreds of brands out there, but many pet parents are wary of the processed ingredients used in them. Have you ever considered making homemade food for your dog but didn’t have enough time or knowledge to do it? If so, the best fresh dog food brands might be for you.

Fresh dog food is a great way to give your dog a balanced diet with human-grade ingredients, but how do you know which brand is the best for your pup? Let’s take a look at the qualities of fresh dog food along with some popular brands.

What is Fresh Dog Food?

Fresh dog food usually refers to pet food that’s made with natural ingredients cooked at a lower temperature to preserve the nutrients. Thus, it doesn’t contain the additives and preservatives that are often in kibble.

Most fresh dog food brands will make a custom formula for your dog based on their lifestyle, and it’ll get delivered right to your door. Most formulas are made from scratch shortly before shipping, hence why it’s called “fresh” food.

Some dog parents are hesitant to try fresh dog food because it can be pricier than processed dry or wet food, but it makes up for it because of the quality ingredients and the personalization.

Pros and Cons of Fresh Dog Food

Every type of dog food has its advantages and disadvantages. These pros and cons might help you decide if fresh dog food is right for you.

Pros

• Customizable – Fresh dog food brands usually personalize meals to fit your dog’s needs. This will ensure that your dog gets proper portions and nutrients while avoiding sensitivities.
• Fresh Ingredients – The ingredients are fresh, natural, and minimally processed, giving your dog the maximum nutrients possible. You’ll know exactly what ingredients are going into your dog’s tummy.
• Good for Picky Eaters – Fresh food is more flavorful than kibble, making it appealing even for picky pups.
• Delivered to Your Door – Most brands deliver their fresh food right to your door on a set schedule, so you don’t have to carry home heavy dog food bags anymore.

Cons

• Pricey – Fresh food tends to be more expensive than kibble, so it might not be ideal for pet parents on a budget.
• Short Shelf Life – Since fresh food doesn’t have as many preservatives as kibble, it doesn’t last as long. It usually needs to be refrigerated or frozen to stay fresh. So, it will need to be delivered more frequently than other types of food would.
• Needs to be Refrigerated – The food needs to stay cold to stay fresh, so it could be an inconvenience for storing during travel.

Want to keep the convenience of kibble but have all the benefits of high-quality food? See our list of the 9 Best Dry Dog Foods.

What to Look For in the Best Fresh Dog Food

Looking closely at the features of each dog food brand can help you narrow down your choices. So, here are a few aspects to choose from when selecting the best fresh dog food delivery.

Ingredients

Ingredients are important in any dog food. Many dogs have favorite flavors or ingredients they’re allergic to. So, by examining the ingredients listed, you can decide if the food is something that will be safe and interesting for your dog. Luckily, many of the best fresh dog food brands offer customizable meal plans to make sure the ingredients cater to your dog’s needs.

Customizable

For many pet parents, having personalized meals is important. If the meals are catered to your dog’s needs, they’re more likely to be beneficial. Plus, customizable meals help many dog parents feel at ease knowing exactly what’s going into the food. If this aspect is important to you, choose a fresh dog food brand that offers custom meal plans.

Price

It’s no secret that fresh dog food can be pricy, but some options cost more than others. The more customizable the food is, the more expensive it will likely be. Food that’s shipped to your door may also cost more than fresh food sold at stores. If you’re on a budget, you may need to consider the prices closely when making your decision. Usually, the higher prices have better quality, but more affordable options can still provide health benefits.

Delivery

Fresh pet food usually offers delivery options, so the food can be shipped frozen right to your door. Delivery is more convenient than picking food up at a store, but it may also cost more. So, decide if delivery is a priority to you when selecting a brand.

Contact

Finally, the company’s customer service is an aspect that shouldn’t be ignored. If you have questions about the company or concerns about your order, it should be easy to reach out to them and get help. The best fresh dog food companies are usually happy to send you a new order if something goes wrong. Check the company’s reviews to see how other people rated their communication.

Best Fresh Dog Food Brands

Now that you know what to expect when buying fresh dog food, let’s take a look at some options. Here are ten of the best fresh dog food brands that can help keep your furry friend healthy.

1. Ollie

Ollie’s subscription food is catered to your pup’s nutritional needs. New customers will fill out a quiz about their dog so Ollie can send them a starter box with personalized food based on their dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Then, customers can get their dog’s food delivered to them on a set schedule. The food arrives frozen, so pet parents can let it thaw when it’s time to feed it to their pups.

The food comes with feeding instructions that are both detailed and easy to understand. Ollie has beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb proteins available. They also have treats and supplements that can be purchased by members and delivered alongside their fresh meals.

The food is always made in small batches at USDA kitchens using human-grade ingredients. Ollie’s protein-packed recipes are carefully crafted with whole foods and slow-cooked for maximum nutrition and flavor. When recommending a meal plan, Ollie’s team will take crucial aspects into account, such as weight goals and allergies.

Benefits:

• Personalized for your dog
• Ships on a set schedule – you can choose how often you want food deliveries
• Formulated by a canine nutritionist
• Comes with a scoop and puptainer to help you portion and store meals
• Uses human-grade ingredients
• Made in USDA kitchens
• Comes with detailed feeding instructions
• Ollie’s subscription food is catered to your pup’s needs. New customers will fill out a quiz about their dog so Ollie can send them a starter box with personalized food. Then, customers can get their dog’s food delivered to them on a set schedule. The food arrives frozen, so pet parents can let it thaw when it’s time to feed it to their pups.

2. The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog is another fresh food subscription service that will ship right to your door. The brand works with vet nutritionists to build a plan for your dog based on the information you provide. They can ship to the 48 contiguous states on a continuous schedule.

The food arrives at your door frozen in ready-to-serve, biodegradable packages. The feeding and storing instructions are easy to follow, and they have your dog’s name on them, so you know you’re getting their special meal.

All the ingredients used in these meals are human-grade, and the meals are made in a USDA-approved kitchen in the United States. This brand has turkey, beef, chicken, and pork formulas, all of which are made with no fillers or preservatives. And now, The Farmer’s Dog is offering 50% off your first box so you can try it yourself!

Benefits:

• Has eco-friendly packaging
• Personalized for your dog
• Vet nutritionists help formulate the meals
• Only made with human-grade ingredients
• Food is delivered to your door frozen
• Made in USDA-approved kitchens

3. Raised Right

Raised Right only sells fresh, human-grade dog and cat food. The food is slow-cooked on low heat, so it can hold its moisture and nutrients while still meeting all the required health and safety standards. For dogs, they sell beef, turkey, chicken, or pork as the primary protein. The recipes are designed by vets and canine nutritionists, and they have limited ingredients to make them a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

This brand doesn’t sell any already-made formulas, but instead, they create a custom meal plan based on your dog’s needs. The questionnaire isn’t as thorough as it is for other personalized fresh food brands. The frozen food is shipped to your door. You’ll need to defrost it overnight and scoop out your pup’s portion to serve their meal. If you don’t want to serve only this food to your dog, you can set up a meal plan that allows you to mix the fresh food with your dog’s dry food.

Transparency is important to this brand. On their website, they have a map that shows you where each ingredient is sourced from. Each batch goes through strict lab safety testing before being shipped to customers, and the food is always prepared in USDA-certified kitchens.

Benefits:

• Personalized food for your dog
• Shipped to your door
• Made in USDA-certified kitchens
• Website shows a map of where all ingredients are sourced from
• Good for dogs with sensitive stomachs

4. A Pup Above

A Pup Above sells dry dog food, but they’re best known for their fresh dog food. You can also buy combos of the dry and fresh food. This brand doesn’t provide a personalized service like some of the other brands, but you can save money if you get a subscription. The food is delivered in frozen packages to your door, but a few stores also sell it.

This brand uses sous vide cooking, which means “under vacuum” in French. The food is vacuum sealed and cooked at a precise temperature to preserve the flavor and nutrients. When you receive the food, you can let it thaw in the fridge overnight before your dog’s next meal.

The fresh food options come in beef, pork, turkey, or chicken. You’ll determine how many patties to give your dog based on your dog’s weight. All the formulas are created by a veterinary nutritionist, and they’re only ideal for adult dogs, not puppies.

Benefits:

• Sous vide cooking
• Shipped to your door and available in some stores
• Crafted by a veterinary nutritionist
• Only made with human-grade ingredients
• Made in a USDA-approved kitchen

If you have a young pup at home, check out our 10 Best Puppy Dog Foods list.

5. Spot & Tango

Spot & Tango sells two types of food: traditional fresh food and Unkibble. Unkibble is a more affordable fresh food option that resembles kibble, but only uses fresh, whole ingredients. Unkibble has recipes with fish, beef, and chicken, while the traditional fresh food comes with turkey, beef, or lamb.

Both types of fresh food are personalized based on your dog’s needs before they’re sent to you. All you need to do is fill out a questionnaire about your dog, and the brand will create a personalized meal plan. Both types of food use human-grade ingredients, and they’re formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

Once you set up a meal plan for your dog, you can get the food shipped to your door. The fresh food arrives frozen, and the Unkibble is a unique type of fresh food that’s dry. The slim packaging of the traditional fresh food comes in serving sizes, so it’s clear how much you need to feed your dog per meal. You’ll find whole ingredients in the dog food.

Benefits:

• Has two types of fresh food: traditional recipes and Unkibble
• Ships to your door in slim packaging
• Personalized for your dog
• Formulated by vets and animal nutritionists
• Made with human-grade ingredients

6. Open Farm

Open Farm is a pet food brand with a variety of products, including dry food, wet food, freeze-dried raw food, treats, supplements, and toppers. Yet, they also have a “gently cooked” dog food option, which is one of the best fresh dog foods. The Gently Cooked dog food is slow-cooked to preserve the nutrients of its human-grade ingredients.

This brand has four fresh dog food recipes: beef, chicken, turkey, and surf & turf. The recyclable food packaging is transparent, so you can see the variety of ingredients before you open the package. The lot code on the packaging traces every ingredient to its source, so you’ll know exactly what your dog is consuming. All the meat comes from humanely-raised animals.

You can get the food shipped to your door, or you can find it in select stores. It’s shipped frozen to preserve the freshness. Open Farm doesn’t provide customizable plans like some of the other brands, but you can fill out a quick questionnaire on the website to calculate a custom serving size for your pup. The company focuses on sustainability by making an effort to reduce its carbon footprint.

Benefits:

• Ships to your door and is offered at select stores
• Uses human-grade ingredients
• Has recyclable packaging
• All ingredients can be traced to their source
• Calculates your dog’s custom serving size for you

7. PetPlate

PetPlate is another fresh dog food delivery brand that personalizes your pup’s meals. You can share some characteristics about your dog, and they will craft a meal that’s healthy and appealing to them. The meals are always made with human-grade ingredients in a USDA kitchen. The food is flash-frozen before shipping to lock in the freshness.

Pet parents can choose a full meal plan or a topper plan. The meals may include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, pork, or venison as the animal protein. Customers can also build their own packs of supplements and organic treats if they choose.

All the meals are shipped in recyclable containers that have resealable lids, making it easy to save extra food for later. The feeding guidelines for the personalized meals are printed on the containers.

Benefits:

• Comes in recyclable containers
• Personalized for your dog
• Uses human-grade ingredients
• Flash-frozen and shipped to your door
• Made in a USDA kitchen

8. JustFoodForDogs

JustFoodForDogs is one of the best fresh dog food companies for variety. They offer many unique recipes, including options for dogs with special needs, like puppies, large breed dogs, dogs with sensitive skin, and dogs that need to lose weight. They can also create a custom diet for your dog if you do a free consultation.

Some other products include treats, supplements, and food for cats. All products are designed by canine nutritionists. The food is made in a kitchen that’s open to the public, so curious pet parents can visit the facility to see how the food is made. In each recipe, you can see a colorful assortment of healthy ingredients, including meat and vegetables. So, you’ll never have to wonder what’s going into your dog’s tummy.

These meals may use chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, venison, or fish as the animal protein source. The food is shipped to your door frozen in a thermal bag with ice. They come with informational pamphlets to help you successfully serve and transition the new food. If you want the food on a regular schedule, you can set up Autoship and choose how often you want dog food to arrive at your door. A few stores sell this food in person as well.

Benefits:

• Can choose from recipes or get personalized meals
• Designed by canine nutritionists
• Shipped to your door as often as you choose (or offered at some stores)
• Made in open-to-the-public kitchens
• Made with human-grade ingredients and no preservatives
• Offers full box shipping as an environmentally-conscious option

9. Evermore

Evermore has four recipes dog parents can choose from: chicken, beef, turkey, and lamb. These meals are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs because they don’t include common allergens, such as corn, soy, and potatoes. The beef comes from grass-fed cows, and the chicken and turkey are free-range.

This food comes in compact packaging that includes slim cardboard boxes and vacuum-sealed bags of food inside. The food is shipped frozen, and large cases can be shipped on a subscription basis. Select retailers in the United States also offer this food in-store. The serving sizes are listed on the box.

Evermore crafts its recipes using “a rainbow array of color” as a way to include a variety of ingredients that have all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Evermore is a smaller business compared to some of the other fresh dog food brands, and they partner with local rescues to provide food to foster dogs.

Benefits:

• Compact packaging
• Ships to your door and is available at some stores
• Good for sensitive dogs
• Donates food to foster dogs
• Sources ingredients from humane and sustainable operations

How to Transition Your Dog’s Food

When you switch your dog to a drastically different diet, there’s a chance they could get sick. So, if you switch your dog from kibble to fresh food, their tummy may not react well. Even though fresh dog food uses healthy human-grade ingredients, it’s drastically different than your dog’s dry food. Thus, you’ll need to carefully transition them to the new food to avoid digestive problems.

Many of the brands have information on how to transition the food on their website, and their customer service teams may be willing to give you advice too. But here’s a general schedule you can follow when transitioning your dog to a new diet:

• Days 1 and 2: 80% old food, 20% new food
• Days 3 and 4: 60% old food, 40% new food
• Days 5 and 6: 40% old food, 60% new food
• Days 7 and 8: 20% old food, 80% new food
• Day 9: 100% new food

This is a more cautious schedule, but the more gradual the transition is, the less likely your dog will react negatively. You can adjust this schedule based on your dog’s needs. If your dog is more sensitive to new foods, you may want to make the transition even more gradual. On the other hand, if your dog rarely has digestion problems, the process doesn’t have to be as slow. It all depends on your furry friend’s specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fresh Dog Food Good for Puppies?

Yes, puppies can eat fresh dog food, but it may not be the best choice for every puppy. Many puppies need diets that are formulated specifically for their life stage, and not all fresh dog food brands offer that.

Does Fresh Dog Food Help with Allergies?

Fresh dog food diets can be great for dogs with allergies because they contain natural ingredients and a shorter ingredient list, so it’s easier to tell what’s included in the food. Yet, dogs can still be allergic to some fresh dog food ingredients, so read the label carefully if you have a sensitive pup.

Do Vets Recommend Fresh Dog Food?

Some vets may recommend fresh dog food, but it depends on the situation. Vets will usually discourage dog parents from making their own fresh dog food meals because it can be difficult to make sure your dog is getting all the essential parts of a meal.

Where Can You Buy Fresh Dog Food?

Most fresh dog food is customized to your dog’s needs, so you can order it online and have it shipped to your door. However, a few brands sell their fresh food at select pet supply stores.

Is Fresh Dog Food Raw?

No, fresh food doesn’t have to be raw. It describes any food with fresh, human-grade ingredients.

Is Fresh Dog Food Better Than Kibble?

Yes, in most cases, fresh dog food is better than kibble because it’s easier for dogs to digest and it’s more flavorful. However, kibble is more convenient and lasts longer.

Choosing the Best Fresh Dog Food

The best fresh dog food will be different for every dog. Look at the benefits of all the brands mentioned above to help you decide which one will be the healthiest and most appealing for your pup.

Fresh dog food is great for your furry friend because it has natural ingredients you can feel comfortable giving your pup. Many brands will make the process even easier by shipping customized meals right to your door.

If you’ve been thinking about improving your dog’s diet, consider switching them to a fresh dog food brand to reap the health, taste, and convenience benefits. If fresh dog food isn’t right for you and your, check out our review of the Best Dogs Food here.

Related: Best Dehydrated Dog Foods of 2022

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