Hey there, future pup parent! We understand why the phrase “best raw food for puppies” comes up so many times.
You want the best for your furry friend. Imagine this blog as your friendly guide in the big, confusing supermarket of puppy chow.
We’re like that buddy who knows all the secret shortcuts to the yummiest treats aisle. You wouldn’t want your pup to have just any old snacks, right?
Nah, you’re aiming for the good stuff – the fuel that’ll power their playful days and make their tails wag like crazy.
So, buckle up, because we’re about to explore some top-notch options that could turn your pup into a gourmet enthusiast.
Let’s talk raw, real, and downright delicious – the kind of meals that make your four-legged friend feel like a furry food critic.
Before we proceed though, let’s give you our methodology on selecting the dog foods. Let’s get started!
How We Choose the Best Raw Food For Puppies
Hey, pals! I’m Jean B. Garrity, your friendly neighborhood Food Animal Veterinarian.
Now, I know navigating the world of puppy foods can be a bit overwhelming, but fear not – I’ve got your back! Think of me as your personal guide through the jungle of puppy nutrition.
I’ve sniffed out the juiciest details to help you pick the cream of the crop for your furball. Here’s the lowdown on how I select these top-notch wet foods, and what criteria I’ve got my eyes on:
- Top-Notch Ingredients: Imagine building a sandwich with the freshest bread, yummiest cheese, and the juiciest meat – that’s what I look for in raw puppy foods. Quality ingredients are the superheroes here.
- Balanced Nutrition: Your little sidekick needs a balanced diet, just like you need a balanced playlist. I’ve checked that these raw foods serve up the right mix of proteins, fats, and vitamins.
- Puppy-Specific Goodies: Puppies are like mini adventurers, right? So, I’ve made sure these raw foods come with special bonuses like brain-boosting DHA and glucosamine.
- Easy on the Tummy: No one likes a grumbly tummy, especially not your pup. These raw foods are gentle, easy on the digestion system.
- Brand Reliability: I also made sure the brands here have got a track record that’s very solid.
- Affordability: Good food don’t need to break the bank for any of us, even our pups. Some of my picks here are not just top-notch in quality but also friendly on your wallet.
10 Best Raw Food For Puppies: Vet Recommendations
So, here’s the list in no particular order:
1. Instinct Raw Boost Puppy Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
Looking to give your furry friend the best start in life? This Food is the fuel for your pup’s journey to greatness. This kibble + freeze-dried raw combo is like a power-packed protein punch, ensuring your puppy gets the nutrition they need to grow, play, and thrive.
The star of the show? Cage-free chicken – the first ingredient, offering a hefty dose of animal protein. Say goodbye to grains, potatoes, and other fillers, because this recipe is all about the good stuff.
Packed with a balanced mix of poultry, fish, and meat, it’s a symphony of flavors that’ll have your pup doing happy dances at mealtime.
But it’s not just about taste – it’s about brain and eye development too. With natural DHA from chicken eggs, your pup’s cognitive functions are in for a treat. Plus, it’s made in the USA with the finest global ingredients, so you can trust the quality.
In each bowl, you’ll find freeze-dried raw meat bites scattered like hidden treasures, making every bite an adventure. And who wouldn’t want to unlock their pet’s potential with the benefits of raw nutrition?
Key Features
- Protein: Cage-free chicken as the first ingredient for the energy needed for growth and play.
- Balanced Nutrition: A mix of poultry, fish, and meat for a healthy dose of protein, supporting brain and eye development.
- Grain-Free: Free from grains, potatoes, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals, artificial colors, and preservatives.
- Global Quality: Made in the USA with the finest ingredients sourced from around the world.
- Raw Boost: Freeze-dried raw meat bites sprinkled throughout for an extra punch of nutrition.
Pros
- Brain Development: Natural DHA from chicken eggs fosters good brain and eye development.
- Digestive Health: Guaranteed levels of probiotics for a happy, healthy tummy.
- Bone and Teeth Support: Essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.
- Coat Health: Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Cons
- Price Tag: Quality comes at a cost, and this premium product might be a bit pricey.
- Flavor Variety: Limited flavor options may not suit picky eaters.
- Size Selection: Currently available in a 10-pound pack – not ideal for bulk buying.
2. Primal Raw Pronto Puppy Recipe Dog Freeze-Dried Food
Introducing The Primal Raw Food, crafted with care in the USA, this freeze-dried dog food is more than just a meal – it’s a complete and balanced raw food diet for your growing pup.
The star of this culinary delight is cage-free chicken, raised on USDA-certified organic fruits and vegetables without any artificial steroids or added hormones.
What’s more? It’s free from corn, wheat, soy, lentils, and legumes, ensuring a clean, natural feast for your furball.
The convenience factor? It’s off the charts. This highly-digestible formula is shelf-stable and ready to serve in seconds. Talk about a dinner that’s as convenient as it is delicious.
Packed with whole-food nutrition, it maximizes nutrient absorption to support your pup’s healthy weight, skin, eyes, oral health, and more.
Key Features
- Top-Quality Proteins: Crafted with high-quality proteins for a 100% complete and balanced raw food diet.
- Organic: Made with cage-free chicken raised on USDA-certified organic fruits and vegetables without hormones.
- Clean and Green: Free from corn, wheat, soy, lentils, and legumes for a natural and wholesome meal.
- Digestion Factor: Highly-digestible formula for maximum nutrient absorption, supporting overall health.
- Convenient: Shelf-stable and ready to serve in seconds for a hassle-free mealtime.
Pros
- Whole-Food Nutrition: Responsibly sourced protein and organic fruits and vegetables, providing real, wholesome nutrition.
- Highest Quality Ingredients: Committed to the humane and ethical treatment of animals, sourced from responsible partners.
- No Nasty Additions: Free from synthetic supplements, artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, corn, wheat, soy, lentils, legumes, grains, and gluten.
- Superior Digestibility: Nearly 100% digestible, ensuring better nutrient absorption for optimal health.
- Small Change, Big Impact: Adding raw food can lead to improved digestion, healthier skin, coat, and overall well-being.
Cons
- Price Consideration: It’s a premium option. So consider that into your purchase decision.
- Limited Weight Option: Currently available in a 1.5625-pound pack – may not be suitable for bulk buyers.
- Flavor Variety: Limited flavor options might not cater to all taste preferences.
3. Instinct Raw Boost Puppy Whole Grain Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
This Food is a winning combo of whole grain kibble and real, freeze-dried raw, giving your furry friend the best of both worlds: complete nutrition with a taste bud explosion.
Packed with protein-rich, cage-free chicken, this formula fuels your pup’s growth and keeps those muscles lean and strong. The additional DHA from chicken eggs goes a step further, supporting brain and eye development to make your pup the smartest (and most adorable) in the park.
Forget fillers and artificial ingredients! This recipe is free from common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, and ditches artificial colors and preservatives for a wholesome approach to pup nutrition.
Available in a convenient 20-pound bag, keep your growing pup fueled for all their adventures with this delicious and nutritious choice.
Key Features
- Powerhouse Blend: Whole grain kibble and freeze-dried raw ingredients for a nutrient-rich diet.
- Protein Punch: Cage-free chicken as the first ingredient for strong, lean muscles.
- Brain and Eye Support: Natural DHA from chicken eggs fosters good brain and eye development.
- Clean and Natural: Free from artificial colors, preservatives, and common allergens for a wholesome meal.
- Bulk Convenience: Available in a 20-pound pack for long-lasting, hassle-free feeding.
Pros
- Balanced Nutrition: A mix of whole grain kibble and freeze-dried raw for optimal nutrition.
- Protein-Packed: Responsibly sourced real meat as the first ingredient ensures a protein boost for muscles.
- Minimally Processed: Retains the natural goodness of ingredients for maximum health benefits.
- Essential Minerals: Guaranteed levels of calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.
- Excitement Guaranteed: Every bite contains real, protein-packed, minimally processed bites – a delight for your pup.
Cons
- Price Consideration: A bit pricey, may not fit all budgets.
- Flavor Variety: Limited flavor options might not suit picky eaters.
- Not Grain-Free: Contains whole grains, may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
4. Merrick Healthy Grains Raw-Coated Kibble Puppy Recipe Freeze-Dried Dry Dog Food
Merrick’s Healthy Grains Raw-Coated Kibble isn’t just any dog food, it’s a gourmet experience your pup deserves. Crafted with pride in the USA, this Texas-born recipe features deboned chicken as the lead singer, harmonizing perfectly with a chorus of whole grains, essential vitamins, and minerals.
But wait, there’s more! The real star of the show is the freeze-dried, raw coating – a culinary innovation that elevates the flavor profile to Michelin-worthy standards. Not only will your pup be begging for more, but this high-pressure processed coating ensures food safety is top-notch.
Think of it as a complete symphony for your puppy’s well-being. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids join the band, keeping your pup’s coat healthy and shiny, while DHA acts as the conductor, ensuring proper brain development and cognitive function.
Free from unnecessary fillers like corn, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, this kibble is a true masterpiece of nutrition. It’s a delicious and healthy composition that will leave your pup feeling positively satisfied.
Key Features
- Raw-Coated: Freeze-dried, raw coating for heightened flavor and nutrition.
- Protein: Real deboned chicken as the main ingredient for a high-protein diet.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.
- Brain Boost: Added DHA for optimal brain health and development.
- Whole Grains: A blend of whole grains including brown rice, barley, and oatmeal for healthy digestion.
Pros
- Raw-Coated: Combines the convenience of kibble with the taste and nutrition of raw.
- High-Quality Meats: Deboned meat, fish, or poultry is the #1 ingredient, ensuring top-notch quality.
- Healthy Grains: Brown rice, barley, and oatmeal support digestion and provide essential fiber.
- Joint Support: Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints.
- Crafted Without Compromise: Free from peas, lentils, potatoes, artificial additives, ensuring a clean and wholesome meal.
Cons
- Premium Price: The quality makes it a higher-priced option.
- Single Flavor: Limited flavor options may not cater to picky eaters.
- Not Grain-Free: Contains healthy grains, may not suit dogs with grain sensitivities.
5. Stella & Chewy’s Perfectly Puppy Chicken & Salmon Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
Stella & Chewy’s Perfectly Puppy Chicken & Salmon Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food recipe mirrors the natural diet your pup would enjoy in the wild.
Formulated with 95% cage-free poultry, organs, and grounded bone, this freeze-dried raw food ensures your furry friend receives the essential nutrients for optimal growth.
The philosophy behind this formula is simple – provide the best nutrition without compromising on quality. Real cage-free chicken and wild-caught salmon make up this high-protein recipe, supporting lean, healthy muscle growth.
The addition of nutrient-rich superfoods like chia seeds promotes a lustrous skin and coat, while New Zealand green mussels contribute to superior joint support.
Say goodbye to grains, added hormones, antibiotics, and fillers. This grain-free, all-natural, and minimally-processed puppy food prioritizes your pup’s health.
A raw diet isn’t just a trend; it may contribute to healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, vibrant skin and coat, as well as stamina and vitality.
Each small batch is a testament to Stella & Chewy’s commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, ensuring that every meal is a premium and wholesome delight for your growing companion.
Key Features
- High-Quality Ingredients: Made with 95% cage-free poultry, organs, and grounded bone.
- Nutrient-Rich Superfoods: Chia seeds for skin and coat health, New Zealand green mussels for joint support.
- Raw Philosophy: Mirrors the natural diet for healthy digestion, teeth, gums, skin, coat, and overall vitality.
- Probiotics for Digestion: Each patty contains probiotics for enhanced digestion.
- No Compromises: Grain-free, all-natural, and free from added hormones, antibiotics, and fillers.
Pros
- Premium Nutrition: Crafted to support optimal growth with high-quality, natural ingredients.
- Variety in Sizes: Available in different sizes to suit your pup’s appetite and convenience.
- Probiotics for Gut Health: Supports digestion with added probiotics.
- Superfood Boost: Includes nutrient-rich superfoods for overall health.
- Responsible Sourcing: Proudly made in the USA with responsibly sourced ingredients.
Cons
- Premium Price: Quality ingredients come at a higher cost.
- Bag Variability: The patty count per bag may vary slightly due to the product being filled by weight.
6. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Petite Salmon Formula Small Breed Puppy Limited Ingredient Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Petite Salmon Formula Small Breed Puppy Limited Ingredient Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food recipe is designed for small breed puppies with a focus on sensitive stomachs.
Real salmon is one of the highlights here, providing a protein-packed foundation for your furry friend’s growth.
With just 8 key ingredients, this limited ingredient formula omits common allergens like corn, wheat, or soy. The freeze-dried kibble is raw coated with real salmon, ensuring a delectable taste that even the pickiest pups can’t resist. The small kibble size is tailor-made for petite puppies, making mealtime enjoyable and easy.
Omega-6 and -3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and a lustrous coat, while antioxidants and probiotics support your sidekick’s immune system and digestive health.
Good for pets, people, and the planet, this formula is a paw-some choice for your small but mighty companion.
Key Features
- Small Breed Consideration: Specially designed for small breed puppies with a focus on sensitive stomachs.
- Limited Ingredient Recipe: Crafted with 8 key ingredients, starting with real salmon, omitting common allergens.
- Freeze-Dried Raw Coating: Enhances the taste with real salmon for a wag-worthy experience.
- Omega Boost: Contains omega-6 and -3 fatty acids for healthy skin and a lustrous coat.
- Antioxidants and Probiotics: Supports immune system and digestive health.
Pros
- Tailor-Made Kibble: Small size perfect for petite puppies, ensuring easy consumption.
- Allergen-Free: Grain-free and free from common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy.
- Premium Protein: Real salmon as the primary ingredient for a protein-packed diet.
- Antioxidant Support: Fortified with antioxidants for overall health.
- Probiotic Boost: Contains live naturally occurring microorganisms for improved digestive health.
Cons
- Limited Flavors: Single flavor option may not cater to dogs with specific taste preferences.
- Higher Price: Quality ingredients contribute to a premium price point.
7. Stella & Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend Wholesome Grains Puppy Cage-Free Chicken & Wild Caught Salmon Recipe with Superfoods Dry Dog Food
Stella & Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend Wholesome Grains Puppy Cage-Free Chicken & Wild Caught Salmon Recipe with Superfoods Dry Dog Food is a nutrient-packed kibble is a symphony of responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods, providing your furry friend with a complete and balanced diet.
This raw-coated formula is infused with bone broth for maximum nutrition and flavor. Oven-baked in small batches, the process preserves all the essential nutrients your puppy needs to thrive.
Stella & Chewy’s SuperBlends feature meats, poultry, and fish raised without added hormones or antibiotics, coupled with wholesome grains like oatmeal and quinoa.
The inclusion of superfoods such as quinoa, broccoli, and New Zealand green mussel enhances the nutritional profile.
Antioxidant-rich superfoods, prebiotics, probiotics, and a unique blend of proteins work in harmony to support your dog’s immune and digestive health.
For a taste of raw-inspired nutrition and unbeatable flavor, choose Stella & Chewy’s SuperBlends, where freeze-dried raw meat pieces are mixed in for an extra protein boost!
Key Features
- Raw-Coated Nutrition: Unique blend of responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods, coated with raw goodness.
- Complete and Balanced: Crafted with bone broth for maximum nutrition, providing a wholesome diet in every bite.
- Oven-Baked in Small Batches: Preserves essential nutrients for your puppy’s health and strength.
- Responsibly Sourced Ingredients: Meats, poultry, and fish raised without added hormones or antibiotics, coupled with wholesome grains.
- Superfood Boost: Includes quinoa, broccoli, and New Zealand green mussel for added vitamins and nutrients.
Pros
- Rich in Antioxidants: Antioxidant-rich superfoods support overall health.
- Digestive Health: Prebiotics and probiotics contribute to a healthy digestive system.
- Protein Boost: Freeze-dried raw meat pieces add an extra protein punch.
- Complete Nutrition: Meets all the nutritional needs in one bag.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Balanced omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Cons
- Premium Price: High-quality ingredients contribute to a higher price point.
- Limited Size Options: Available in a 3.25-pound bag, which may not be suitable for larger dog breeds.
8. Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Puppy Recipe + Grains with Chicken & Salmon Freeze-Dried Dry Dog Food
Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Puppy Recipe + Grains with Chicken & Salmon Freeze-Dried Dry Dog Food is thoughtfully formulated to meet the unique dietary needs of your growing puppy.
This high-protein recipe combines real deboned chicken, a holistic blend of whole grains like oats for healthy digestion, and freeze-dried raw bites inspired by your puppy’s ancestral diet.
With a focus on supporting developing muscles, energy levels, and balanced nutrition, this freeze-dried puppy food is a convenient and safe way to provide the benefits of a wild, raw diet.
Key Features
- High-Quality Proteins: Real deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing essential proteins for muscle development.
- Holistic Blend: A mix of whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and barley aids in healthy digestion.
- Freeze-Dried Raw Bites: Inspired by your puppy’s ancestral diet, the recipe includes freeze-dried raw bites to support muscle tissue and energy levels.
- No Peas or Lentils: Formulated without peas or lentils for dogs with sensitivities or preferences.
- Made in the USA: Proudly crafted in USA facilities with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Pros
- Protein-Rich: Real deboned chicken as the first ingredient for muscle development.
- Holistic Blend: Whole grains for healthy digestion.
- Freeze-Dried Raw Bites: Provides the benefits of a raw diet with convenient kibble.
- No Peas or Lentils: Suitable for dogs with sensitivities.
- Made in the USA: Crafted in USA facilities with a focus on quality.
Cons
- Limited Size Options: Currently available in a 10-pound bag.
9. Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated Kibble Puppy Grain-Free Prairie Recipe Dry Dog Food
Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated Kibble Puppy Grain-Free Prairie Recipe Dry Dog Food offers a protein-rich and nutritious meal for your growing puppy.
Packed with a variety of meat sources, including chicken, turkey, quail, guineafowl, goose, and duck, this recipe follows a “whole prey” approach by incorporating muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage.
The freeze-dried raw meat coating adds a delectable taste to each bite, making it an enticing and wholesome option for your furry friend.
Crafted without grains or legumes, this high-protein, pea-free formula is designed to support your puppy’s health and vitality.
Key Features
- Protein Variety: Contains a mix of chicken, turkey, quail, guineafowl, goose, and duck for a diverse protein profile.
- Whole Prey Approach: Utilizes muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage for a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Freeze-Dried Raw Coating: Enhances flavor and provides the benefits of raw nutrition.
- Grain and Legume-Free: Crafted without grains or legumes for dogs with specific dietary preferences or sensitivities.
- High-Protein Formula: 92% of the protein comes from actual animal sources, supporting muscle development.
- Nutrient-Rich: Enriched with essential nutrients, including DHA, zinc, vitamin E, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, taurine, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and L-carnitine.
Pros
- Protein Variety: Multiple meat sources for a diverse nutritional profile.
- Whole Prey Approach: Balanced with muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage.
- Freeze-Dried Raw Coating: Enhances taste and provides raw nutrition benefits.
- Grain and Legume-Free: Suitable for dogs with dietary preferences or sensitivities.
- High-Protein Formula: Majority of protein comes from actual animal sources.
- Enriched with Nutrients: Includes essential elements for overall health.
Cons
- Limited Size Options: Currently available in a 21-pound bag.
10. Instinct Raw Frozen Puppy Bites Grain-Free Cage-Free Chicken Recipe Dog Food, 3-lb bag
Instinct Raw Frozen Puppy Bites Grain-Free Cage-Free Chicken Recipe Dog Food is a grain-free recipe features cage-free chicken, beef organs, and cod to support healthy muscle development.
Enriched with DHA for brain and eye development, as well as essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorous for teeth and bone health, this raw frozen puppy food is crafted without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Start your puppy’s diet off right with the wholesome and natural ingredients found in Instinct Raw Frozen Puppy Bites.
Key Features
- Raw Frozen Formula: Formulated with raw ingredients to provide the benefits of a raw diet.
- Protein-Rich: Features chicken, beef organs, and cod to promote healthy muscle development.
- DHA for Development: Contains DHA to support brain and eye development in puppies.
- Teeth and Bone Health: Enriched with calcium and phosphorous for optimal teeth and bone health.
- Natural Ingredients: Crafted without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Wholesome Fruits and Veggies: Includes carrots, apples, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, blueberries, and spinach.
- Frozen Form: Preserves the freshness and nutritional value of the ingredients.
Pros
- Raw Frozen Format: Preserves the freshness and nutritional integrity of ingredients.
- Protein Variety: Chicken, beef organs, and cod provide a diverse protein profile.
- DHA Enriched: Supports brain and eye development in puppies.
- Teeth and Bone Support: Contains calcium and phosphorous for healthy development.
- Natural Ingredients: Crafted without artificial additives.
- Wholesome Fruits and Veggies: Adds nutritional variety.
- Grain-Free and High-Protein: Suitable for a puppy’s nutritional needs.
Cons
- Limited Size Options: Currently available in a 3-pound bag.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the lowdown on the best raw food for puppies. Stick to these vet-approved choices, and your pup will be chowing down on meals that keep them healthy and happy. Cheers to good eats for your furry friend!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What raw food can I give my puppy?
Puppies can munch on some of the same raw stuff grown-up dogs eat, like chicken, turkey, beef, or even lamb (avoid processed meats like sausages). Raw, meaty bones are great for gnawing and cleaning teeth, but never give cooked bones, they can splinter and hurt your pup’s insides.
Liver, kidney, and other organ meats are packed with nutrients, but go easy on these as they’re quite rich. Veggies and fruits add vitamins and fiber, just like in our own food.
Think chopped carrots, spinach, or even berries.
Do vets recommend raw food for puppies?
This one’s tricky. Some vets are cool with raw food diets, but others aren’t so sure. Why? Because it’s easy to mess up. Balancing all the nutrients your pup needs in a raw food diet is tough. Missing something important can make them sick.
There’s a higher risk of bacteria too. Raw food can carry icky bacteria that can make you and your pup sick, especially if you don’t handle it carefully.
Is it OK to feed puppies raw food?
It depends. If you’re super committed to researching, planning, and handling raw food safely, then it’s okay. Make sure you research things well, like giving this blog a good read to understand what brand is good for your specific puppy.
What raw food can I give my small puppy?
Tiny pups need special care, and raw food can be extra risky for them. Their digestive systems are still developing, and they might not handle the bacteria well.
It’s best to talk to your vet before trying any raw food with your small puppy. They can help you decide what’s best for your furry friend.
