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Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best raw-coated kibbles for dogs. In an increasingly discerning world of pet nutrition, raw-coated kibble stands out as a superb choice for those wanting to provide their furry friends with a diet that closely mirrors what they might find in nature. Combining the convenience of kibble with the nutritional benefits of raw food, these products have become the go-to solution for many dog owners seeking a balance between nutrition, convenience, and taste. Let’s explore the top choices in the market that promise to keep your dog healthy and their taste buds happy.
#1 – Stella Chewy 3.5# Raw Coated Duck Kibble
The Stella Chewy 3.5# Raw Coated Duck Kibble is a high-protein baked kibble that is coated with freeze-dried raw ingredients. This product is designed to provide a low-carbohydrate diet and includes added probiotics for optimal digestion. It is also rich in omega fatty acids, which promotes healthy skin and coat.
#3 – Merrick Healthy Grains Freeze Dried Raw Coated Kibble Dry Dog Food Real Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe – 22 lb Bag
The Merrick Healthy Grains Freeze Dried Raw Coated Kibble Dry Dog Food Real Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a dry dog food that offers a nutritious and delicious option for dogs. Real deboned chicken is the main ingredient, providing protein for your pet. The food is free from peas, lentils, and potatoes, and includes omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy hips and joints. The raw coating is created using high pressure processing for food safety, and the product is made in the USA.
#4 – Merrick Full Source Grain Free Freeze-Dried Raw-Coated Kibble with Chicken & Duck Dog Food 20 Lbs
The Merrick Full Source Grain Free Freeze-Dried Raw-Coated Kibble with Chicken & Duck Dog Food is a 20-pound bag of dog food. It is made with real deboned chicken as the main ingredient and contains a high percentage of protein sourced from animals. Additionally, the recipe includes freeze-dried raw coated kibble, which offers easily digestible and tasty nutritional benefits. Notably, this dog food is free from peas and lentils.
#5 – Stella & Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend Kibble for Dogs Wholesome Grains Cage-Free Chicken & Duck Recipe with Superfoods, 3.25lb Bag
Stella & Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend Kibble for Dogs is a nutrient-packed dog food that is made with responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods. The raw blend recipes include pieces of freeze-dried raw meat to provide an extra protein boost. The small-batch, oven-baked process helps to preserve the nutrients, and the ingredients are of high quality, including meats, poultry, and fish raised without added hormones or antibiotics. The superfoods, prebiotics, probiotics, and proteins in SuperBlends contribute to improved gut and immune health in dogs.
#6 – Merrick Healthy Grains Freeze Dried Raw Coated Kibble Dry Dog Food Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe – 10 lb Bag
Merrick Healthy Grains Freeze Dried Raw Coated Kibble Dry Dog Food in the Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe is a nutritious option for dog owners looking for a protein-rich diet for their pets. The real deboned beef is the main ingredient in this dry food, providing a delicious taste. This dog food is free of peas, lentils, and potatoes, and contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to support a healthy skin and coat. It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy hips and joints. The raw coating is created using high pressure processing to ensure food safety, and the entire product is made in the USA.
#7 – Stella & Chewy’S Raw Coated Chicken 3.5Lb Dry Dog Food
Stella & Chewy’S Raw Coated Chicken 3.5Lb Dry Dog Food, accompanied by Freeze Dried Coated Chicken Kibble, is a dog food product that offers a combination of dry kibble and freeze-dried chicken to provide a nutritious meal for dogs. The raw coating on the kibble aims to mimic a dog’s ancestral diet while offering the convenience of dry food. The addition of freeze-dried chicken adds a boost of flavor, making it an appealing option for dog owners seeking a balanced and tasty meal option for their pets.
#8 – Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain & Legume Free Prairie Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag
Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food is a high-protein dog food that offers the taste dogs love and the nutrition they need. Each bite is coated in freeze-dried raw meat, providing a protein-rich diet. The recipe includes six animal protein sources and is grain-free, making it easy for dogs of all life stages to digest. It is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support overall health and contains antioxidants for a healthy immune system. Additionally, omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil promote healthy skin and coat.
#9 – Stella Chewy 3.5# Raw Coated Lamb Kibble
Stella Chewy Raw Coated Lamb Kibble is a high-protein dry dog food that is coated with freeze-dried raw ingredients. It is designed to provide a low-carbohydrate diet with added probiotics for optimal digestion. It also contains omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.
What Are Raw Coated Kibble Dog Foods? What Are Their Benefits?
Raw-coated kibble is a type of dog food that combines the convenience and affordability of traditional dry food with the nutritional advantages of raw diets. It’s essentially dry dog kibble that has been coated with a layer of freeze-dried or dehydrated raw meat, thus infusing it with the benefits associated with raw food diets.
There are several benefits to feeding your dog raw-coated kibble. Firstly, it introduces your dog to a more natural diet that mimics what they would eat in the wild, as the raw coating is typically composed of minimally processed meats. This coating can provide a higher level of protein and natural enzymes, which can aid in digestion and overall health.
Secondly, raw coated kibble often retains more of the vitamins and minerals found in raw food compared to traditional kibble, due to the minimal processing.
Finally, the raw coating enhances the flavor of the kibble, making it more appetizing for picky eaters. This type of food gives you the best of both worlds – the nutritional benefits of raw food, with the convenience and shelf life of dry food. However, it’s important to consult your vet before making any drastic changes to your dog’s diet.
What Should I Look for When Choosing a Good Raw Coated Kibble for My Dog?
When choosing a raw-coated kibble for your dog, several factors need to be taken into account.
- Quality of Ingredients: Look for a brand that uses high-quality, real, and whole ingredients. The first few ingredients listed should be identifiable meats, such as chicken, beef, or fish, and not meat by-products or fillers.
- Grain-free or Whole Grains: Depending on your dog’s dietary needs, you may want to choose a grain-free formula or one with whole grains. Some dogs do better with grain-free diets, while others need energy from grains. Consult your vet to determine what is best for your dog.
- Source of Protein: The source of protein is important. Look for raw-coated kibbles that use a high-quality, lean source of protein. This will be beneficial for your dog’s muscle development and energy levels.
- Additional Supplements: Some raw coated kibbles include added vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial supplements such as probiotics, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. These can help support your dog’s overall health.
- Brand Reputation: Choose a reputable brand that has good reviews and is known for quality control and safety standards. Look for brands that are transparent about their ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes.
- Suitability for Your Dog: Lastly, make sure the kibble is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, size, and health conditions. What’s good for a small puppy might not be suitable for a large senior dog.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works best for one might not work for another. It’s always recommended to consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raw Coated Dog Foods
- What exactly is raw-coated kibble? Raw-coated kibble is a type of dog food that involves coating regular dry kibble in a layer of freeze-dried or dehydrated raw meat. This combines the convenience of kibble with some of the nutritional benefits associated with a raw diet, such as increased palatability and better protein availability.
- Why should I consider raw-coated kibble for my dog? Raw-coated kibble often has a higher meat content than traditional kibble, providing your dog with a richer source of protein. Many dogs also find the taste more appealing. Additionally, the raw coating can offer benefits such as improved digestion and healthier skin and coat.
- Is raw-coated kibble safe for my dog to eat? Yes, it is safe. The raw meat used in raw-coated kibble is typically freeze-dried or dehydrated to kill harmful bacteria, making it safe for your dog to consume. As with any dog food, it’s important to follow proper storage and handling instructions.
- Does raw-coated kibble require refrigeration? No, unlike traditional raw food diets, raw-coated kibble does not need to be refrigerated. The raw coating has been freeze-dried or dehydrated, so the kibble can be stored at room temperature, making it a convenient option for most pet owners.
- Is raw-coated kibble appropriate for dogs with food sensitivities? Raw-coated kibble can be an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities, as it’s often made with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients. However, it’s important to check the ingredient list to ensure it does not contain any specific ingredients your dog is allergic to.
- Can I switch my dog to raw-coated kibble directly from a regular diet? It’s always recommended to transition your dog to a new diet gradually to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the raw coated kibble with their regular food, and gradually increase the amount over a week or two.
- What brands offer raw-coated kibble? There are several well-known brands that offer raw coated kibble including Stella & Chewy’s, Merrick Backcountry, Instinct Raw Boost, and Wellness Core RawRev, among others. Choose a brand with a strong reputation for quality and safety.
- Are there any risks associated with feeding my dog raw-coated kibble? Like any diet, raw-coated kibble isn’t without potential risks. These include the potential for bacterial contamination, although the risk is lower than with a fully raw diet. Always buy from reputable brands and store the food properly to minimize risk.
- Is raw-coated kibble more expensive than regular kibble? Generally, raw-coated kibble can be more expensive than regular kibble due to the higher meat content and the process used to prepare the raw coating. However, many pet owners find the potential health benefits to be worth the extra cost.
- Does my dog need to drink more water if eating raw coated kibble? No, raw-coated kibble does not generally require increased water intake, but it’s always important for your dog to have access to fresh water. Some dogs may consume more water when switching to a new diet, and this is perfectly normal.
Conclusion: Best Raw Coated Kibbles for Dogs
Choosing the best raw-coated kibble for your dog is no small task, as it involves understanding your pet’s unique nutritional needs and preferences. This article’s top selections reflect a range of options, ensuring you can find one that best matches your dog’s dietary requirements. Remember, no diet change should be made abruptly – always consult with your vet and gradually introduce new food to your dog’s diet. With the right choice, raw-coated kibbles can offer a fantastic dietary solution that combines the benefits of raw feeding with the convenience of dry food. Happy feeding to your four-legged friend!
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