Top 5 Raw Meat Brands: Essential Dog Food Guide

Does the thought of feeding your dog raw meat make you pause? You see happy, healthy dogs, and you wonder if a raw diet holds the key. Many dog owners face this exact dilemma. Choosing the right raw food can feel like navigating a minefield. You worry about safety, getting the right nutrients, and what your veterinarian might say. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice about bones, organs, and muscle meat.

This confusion stops here. Inside this guide, we will break down the essentials of feeding your dog a raw meat diet. We will show you exactly what to look for in quality raw products. You will learn simple steps to introduce raw feeding safely and confidently. Get ready to understand the benefits and clear up your biggest concerns. Let’s dive into making the best nutritional choice for your best friend.

Top Raw Meat For Dogs Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

TRMC Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef - 2lb Bag of USA-Crafted Grain-Free Real Meat Dog Food Sourced from Hormone-Free, Free-Range, Grass-Fed Beef - Digestible, All Natural, High Protein Beef

REAL HUMAN-GRADE QUALITY BEEF - Imagine a bowl filled with air dried dog food made with real human grade quality beefy goodness. This high protein dog food will have your pup's tail thumping with joy. It's not just real meat air dried dog food; it's a meaty party for their taste buds, crafted with care
NO MORE GRAINS OR PESKY ADDITIVES - Our beef dry dog food small bites are gentle on the tummy making it perfect for pups with allergies and sensitivities. No fillers, coloring, or artificial additives. Just pure wholesome, all-natural real meat dog food
GENTLY AIR-DRIED TO PAW-FECTION - Real Meat's secret air-drying process seals in the goodness, making every bite a punch of flavor and nutrition. This premium & nutritious beef dog food is perfectly bite-sized, making meal time something to look forward to
COMPLETE & BALANCED FOR EVERY PUP - Whether it's a full meal or just a topper, these dog food dry bites offer a delicious, holistic feast with vital vitamins and minerals. Perfect for dogs of all life stages and breeds, including puppies, adults, seniors, and small to large dog breeds
CRAFTED IN THE U.S. OF YAY - Ethically crafted in small, artisanal batches our holistic dog food is as premium, as it is affordable. Made with beef sourced from free-range, grass-fed, hormone-free, and utterly happy cows straight from the USA & New Zealand

Bestseller No. 2

Team Dog Raw Frozen Dog Food | 65% Beef Muscle, Organ Meats, Herring & Green Tripe for Dogs | All Natural Grain Free Dog Food for Optimal Health, Digestion & Coat | 24 x 1lb Rolls

COMPLETE & BALANCED PROTEIN POWERHOUSE: TEAM DOG's RAW dog food formula mirrors the ancestral diet of dogs, providing a high-protein, low-carb diet that modern dry food can't compete with. TEAM DOG RAW ensures the ideal balance of 65% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 25% organ meats and fish, for the most complete nutrition possible
RAW DOG FOOD TOPPER FOR DRY KIBBLE: TEAM DOG RAW is a cost-effective, high-quality choice you and your dog will love. TEAM DOG RAW has even the pickiest eaters licking the bowl clean. This real meat dog food is perfect for augmenting your dog's mealtime. TEAM DOG promotes feeding 75% dry dog food or kibble with 25% raw. Always consult with your veterinarian to make sure your dog's unique nutritional needs are met. Team Dog Raw is not suitable for puppies
BETTER DIGESTION, FEWER SENSISTIVITIES: The combination of raw meat & green tripe for dogs in TEAM DOG RAW's blend has helped dogs with digestive issues. The 10% unwashed fatty tripe adds probiotics and enzymes for improved digestion, while organ meats like frozen beef heart, spleen and kidney support heart health with coenzyme Q10
HEALTHIER JOINTS, SKIN & COAT: Herring is an excellent source of low fat protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Beef liver is packed with vitamins A and B as well as essential minerals. These high quality ingredients support healthy skin, a glossy coat, and offer a boost in energy and overall vitality
SUPERIOR, NO NONSENSE INGREDIENTS: While many raw dog food brands rely on fillers like grains or starches, TEAM DOG RAW is a grain free dog food that focuses on what matters – 100% raw meat, organ meats, and herring. This means no preservatives, additives, or artificial ingredients, just pure nutrition your dog was meant to eat

Bestseller No. 3

Lucy Pet Products Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls

Lucy Pet Dog Food Rolls are premium dog food rolls formulated for optimum nutrition, a healthy coat, and high energy. Complete and balanced for all life stages from puppies to adults. You can slice or chop to use as a full feed or a treat, or grate and use as a food topper! Available in 4 lb, 2.5 lb, 1 lb, and 2.75oz sizes
Perfect for travel with your dog, ideal for senior or convalescing dogs, and great for hiding medications.
Semi-moist, meaty beef formula that even the pickiest dogs will love!
With biotin to support healthy skin & coat and added taurine for heart and eye health
Easy to use- no refrigeration needed until opened. Store unopened rolls in your pantry.

SaleBestseller No. 4

Raw Paws Signature Blend Pet Food for Dogs & Cats - Beef Recipe, 1-lb Rolls (20 Pack) - Fresh Pet Food Made in USA, Grass-Fed Beef, Natural Dog Food Rolls, Raw Frozen Dog Food & Cat Food

ALL-NATURAL DOG FOOD ROLL AND CAT FOOD ROLL: Raw Paws beef frozen dog food roll is made from 100% natural beef dogs and cats and even ferrets love! This single-protein cat food and dog food beef recipe has no preservatives, fillers or additives. High-protein grain free beef dog food and cat food that is fully digestible, improves skin and coat health, supports oral hygiene and helps pets build and maintain lean muscle mass. Your pet will love our raw frozen dog food and beef cat food!
CAT FOOD AND DOG FOOD MADE IN USA ONLY: Our frozen raw dog food beef blend comes from grass fed beef sourced from Indiana family farms. We partner with local farmers to guarantee the best beef dog food and cat food made from healthy free-range cows raised in humane living conditions. When you feed your pet raw blend beef grain free dog food and cat food, you’re imitating your pet’s natural, species-appropriate diet, which helps your pet achieve optimal health, vibrancy, and longevity.
NUTRIENT-DENSE ALL BEEF DOG FOOD AND CAT FOOD: Not only is our dog and cat food beef roll irresistible, our raw beef dog food has a blend of 80% muscle meat, 10% organ and 10% bone. Raw fresh dog food and cat food made from beef is rich in the amino acids L-carnitine and taurine, both of which are essential for cardiac health but are often lacking in pet food. High in iron, copper and zinc, our all natural beef raw food for dogs and cats has vitamins that are vital for health and vitality.
EASY-TO-SERVE CAT AND DOG BEEF ROLL: Our 1-lb cat food and dog food log is super easy and convenient to handle, serve and store! Simply thaw the dog and cat tube food and serve as needed or partially thaw our frozen dog food and cat food in the fridge and cut into portions with a serrated knife. Refreeze extra portions or form into cat food and dog food patties for future feedings. The convenient size of our grain free dog food roll also makes it simple to rotate proteins for all your pets.
WE VALUE YOU: We stand behind our brand and strive to ensure that you and your pet are truly happy. Meeting your expectations is our top priority at Raw Paws Pet, Inc.

Bestseller No. 5

Vital Essentials Single Ingredient Beef Liver Dog Treats, 2.1 oz | Freeze-Dried Raw | Premium Quality High Protein Training Treats | Grain Free, Gluten Free, Filler Free

FREEZE-DRIED RAW BEEF LIVER DOG TREAT: Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats pack more protein than industry standard into every bite to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our natural freeze-dried raw dog treats are made from responsibly sourced, premium butcher cut beef liver.
BETTER PROTEIN = BETTER BENEFITS: The best freeze dried dog treats on the market use premium butcher cut raw protein to unlock the benefits of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals in raw muscle and organs, because pets deserve the energetic playtimes, healthy skin, shiny coats, strong teeth, and essential gut health that a high-protein diet delivers.
PROUDLY AMERICAN CRAFTED: All our dog treats and food are responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to ensure the quality of our proteins. We go above industry standards to preserve flavor and ensure the highest quality of protein and nutrients in every Vital Essentials product.
MADE WITHOUT: Dog treat additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains, or rendered by-products. Vital Essentials also offers the widest variety of single-protein raw dog food and treats on the market—great for picky eaters and dogs with allergies!
RAW DOG TREATS FREEZE DRIED FOR PEAK FRESHNESS: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to lock in peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry ensures minimal processing, while preserving the vital nutrients that our pets deserve, the way nature intended.

Bestseller No. 6

Happy Howie's Soft Meat Roll Treat - Soft Dog Food Rolls, Natural Ingredients, for All Dogs, Made in USA - Beef, Lamb, Turkey, 7 Oz (Pack of 3)

VERSATILE AND DELICIOUS - Reward your dog with our Soft Meat Roll Treats! Grate over food to enhance meals or press over a pill to give your dog medicine effortlessly
GREAT FOR ALL DOGS - Happy Howie’s Soft Meat Roll Treats suit all breeds and life stages. Cut to size for customizable portions, catering to your dog's needs perfectly
COST EFFICIENT - When you buy a Happy Howie’s Soft Meat Roll Treats, you pay less per ounce of a treat than most other natural dog treats. Best of all, your dog will love the taste
REFRIGERATE AFTER OPENING - Happy Howie’s Soft Meat Roll Treat doesn’t need to be refrigerated until after you cut it open. Keep refrigerated for up to two weeks or freeze it for even longer storage
MADE IN USA - Our products feature solely natural ingredients loved by dogs, crafted in our Detroit, Michigan, USA factory

Bestseller No. 7

Vital Essentials Single Ingredient Chicken Hearts Dog Treats, 1.9 oz | Freeze-Dried Raw | Premium Quality High Protein Training Treats | Grain Free, Gluten Free, Filler Free

FREEZE-DRIED RAW CHICKEN HEART DOG TREAT: Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats pack more protein than industry standard into every bite to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our natural freeze-dried raw dog treats are made from responsibly sourced, premium butcher cut chicken hearts.
BETTER PROTEIN = BETTER BENEFITS: The best freeze dried dog treats on the market use premium butcher cut raw protein to unlock the benefits of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals in raw muscle and organs, because pets deserve the energetic playtimes, healthy skin, shiny coats, strong teeth, and essential gut health that a high-protein diet delivers.
PROUDLY AMERICAN CRAFTED: All our dog treats and food are responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to ensure the quality of our proteins. We go above industry standards to preserve flavor and ensure the highest quality of protein and nutrients in every Vital Essentials product.
MADE WITHOUT: Dog treat additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains, or rendered by-products. Vital Essentials also offers the widest variety of single-protein raw dog food and treats on the market—great for picky eaters and dogs with allergies!
RAW DOG TREATS FREEZE DRIED FOR PEAK FRESHNESS: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to lock in peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry ensures minimal processing, while preserving the vital nutrients that our pets deserve, the way nature intended.

Bestseller No. 8

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties - Remarkable Red Meat Blend - High Protein Grain-Free Puppy & Dog Food - Perfect For Picky Eaters - 14 oz

EXCEPTIONAL FOR PICKY EATERS -- Consistently entices even the most finicky dogs to eat when other foods fail -- our freeze-dried raw patties deliver irresistible taste that transforms mealtime for selective dogs.
95% RED MEAT, ORGANS & BONE -- Premium freeze-dried raw nutrition with whole-prey approach combines beef, lamb, and goat for diverse protein that supports muscle development, digestibility, and natural nutrients for coat, skin, and overall health.
VERSATILE SERVING OPTIONS -- Perfect as complete meals, crumbled food toppers, or high-value training treats -- ideal for puppies and adult dogs with options to serve dry or rehydrated with water.
BALANCED NUTRITION FOR ALL LIFE STAGES -- Complete and balanced diet for growing puppies and adult dogs with probiotics for digestive health and omega fatty acids for skin and coat -- free from grains, gluten, fillers, and artificial preservatives.
MADE IN USA WITH PREMIUM INGREDIENTS -- Small-batch production with 100% organic fruits and vegetables, responsibly-sourced ingredients, and no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors -- trusted by thousands of pet parents.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Raw Dog Food

Switching your dog to a raw food diet can seem big. But it offers many benefits! This guide helps you pick the best raw meat for your furry friend. Think about what your dog needs most.

1. Key Features to Look For

When shopping for raw dog food, look for these important things:

Whole Food Ingredients: Good raw food includes muscle meat, organs, and edible bone. This mimics what dogs eat in the wild.
Nutrient Balance: Check the guaranteed analysis. The food should meet AAFCO standards for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, senior).
Sourcing Transparency: Where did the meat come from? Reputable brands tell you this clearly.
No Fillers or Additives: Avoid grains, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives. Raw food should be just that—raw meat and natural additions.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What makes one raw meal better than another? It’s often about how the food is handled.

Quality Boosters:

Human-Grade Meat: This means the meat meets standards for people to eat, even if it is ground up for pets. It’s a sign of high quality.
Flash Freezing: This process locks in nutrients quickly, keeping the food fresh longer without harsh processing.
Variety of Protein Sources: Feeding different proteins (like chicken, beef, turkey) keeps your dog’s diet interesting and balanced.

Quality Reducers:

Excessive Grinding: Over-processing can sometimes damage delicate nutrients.
Unknown Origin: If a company hides where they get their meat, that lowers trust and potential quality.
High Water Content (If Not Formulated Correctly): While raw food has moisture, too much water without balanced nutrients can dilute the meal.

2. Important Materials (Ingredients)

Raw food is built on specific components. You need a good mix for a complete meal.

Muscle Meat: This is the main part. It provides protein for strong muscles.
Organs: Liver, kidney, and heart are packed with vitamins like A, D, and B vitamins. Don’t skip these!
Edible Bone: This is the natural source of calcium and phosphorus, which keeps bones and teeth strong. Ground bone is best.
Vegetables/Fruits (Optional but Helpful): Some recipes add small amounts of safe vegetables like carrots or kale for fiber and extra antioxidants.

3. User Experience and Use Cases

How you use raw food changes based on your lifestyle.

Convenience Levels:

Pre-Made Frozen Patties/Chunks: These are the easiest to use. You simply thaw and serve. They are perfect for busy owners.
DIY Ingredients: Some experienced owners buy individual cuts of meat, organs, and bone, then mix them at home. This gives total control but takes much more time and knowledge.
Freeze-Dried Raw: These lightweight options are great for travel or camping. You just add water back in.

Use Case Example: If you have a puppy, you need a formula specifically labeled for “Growth and Reproduction.” If you have a dog with allergies, you might choose a “Novel Protein” option, like venison or rabbit, to avoid common triggers like chicken or beef.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Raw Dog Food

Q: Is raw food safe from bacteria like Salmonella?

A: Reputable companies use strict testing and safe handling to reduce risks. Most dogs’ strong stomach acid handles bacteria well. Always clean surfaces after handling raw food, just like you do for human food.

Q: How much raw food should I feed my dog?

A: Generally, dogs eat about 2% to 3% of their ideal body weight daily, split into two meals. Check the specific brand’s feeding guide.

Q: Do I need to supplement a complete raw diet?

A: If you buy a “complete and balanced” raw meal (one that includes bone and organs), you usually do not need extra supplements.

Q: Can I mix raw food with dry kibble?

A: Most vets suggest feeding them separately. Raw food digests much faster than kibble, and mixing them can sometimes cause digestive upset.

Q: What is the shelf life of frozen raw food?

A: When kept frozen solid, it lasts for many months. Once thawed in the fridge, use it within three to four days.

Q: Are bones safe if they are ground up?

A: Yes. Ground bone in a complete raw mix is safe and essential for calcium. Whole, large bones should always be supervised or avoided, depending on your dog’s chewing style.

Q: How do I transition my dog slowly to raw food?

A: Start by replacing a small portion of the current meal with raw food. Over seven to ten days, slowly increase the raw portion and decrease the old food until the transition is complete.

Q: What if my dog has a sensitive stomach?

A: Start with a single-protein source, like plain chicken, until their stomach adjusts. Avoid overly rich organ mixes at first.

Q: What does “AAFCO approved” mean?

A: AAFCO sets nutrient standards for pet food in the US. If a food meets these standards, it means the recipe has the right balance of nutrients for your dog’s life stage.

Q: How do I store raw food once it is thawed?

A: Keep it in a sealed container in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Never leave thawed food sitting out at room temperature for long periods.