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Many Golden Doodle parents are turning to the best raw dog food brands for Goldendoodles 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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle’s needs. Consider your Golden Doodle’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 Goldendoodle’s ancestors.
In the wild, it’s common for canines to consume whole animals after hunting them, bones and all. So, your Golden Doodle’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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle 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.
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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle’s health in the long run. You’ll know exactly what’s going into your Goldendoodle’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 Golden Doodle 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.
Related: Best Puppy Dog Food
Raw Dog Food for Goldendoodles: 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 for Goldendoodles
- 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 for Goldendoodles
- It’s expensive
- Has a higher risk of spreading bacteria
- Can be harder to store
- Takes more time to prepare and serve
Top Raw Dog Food Brands for Natural Nutrition
1 – Maev Raw Dog Food
Maev is a brand that specializes in raw dog food. Its products are nutritionally balanced and species-appropriate. The ingredients are typically a mixture of raw meats, bones, fruits, and vegetables. The food is flash-frozen for optimal nutrient absorption, making it as tasty and healthy as possible for your furry friend.
The brand only uses human-grade ingredients, ensuring the exclusion of fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Thus, the recipes closely mimic a dog’s ancestral diet, providing canines with a range of essential nutrients in a form that’s biologically appropriate for them. Dogs can experience lots of benefits from Maev’s diet, including improved digestion, more energy, and healthier skin and coat.
When purchasing Maev’s food, you can choose between chicken, beef, or a mix of both. If you’re not sure how much to feed your dog, you can get customized portions based on your dog’s information. You can also choose if there are certain areas you want the food to help with, such as weight, joints, anxiety, or hip and joint pain. The nutrient-rich food is always shipped right to your door to eliminate the need to get dog food from the store.
Benefits:
- Flash-frozen for optimal nutrient absorption
- Arrives at your door ready to eat
- Offers some customizable options
- Made with human-grade ingredients that mimic an ancestral diet
- Benefits digestion, energy, skin, coat, and more
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2 – Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties
If you’re not looking to commit to a questionnaire or subscription to get raw Golden doodle 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 Golden doodle’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 Golden doodles 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 Goldendoodles with allergies
- Variety of options
3 – We Feed Raw
We Feed Raw is another dog food company that creates meal plans that cater to your Golden Doodle’s needs. All you have to do is answer some questions about your Golden Doodle, and then the company will suggest the ideal food for them. During the questionnaire, the company takes into account your Golden Doodle’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 Goldendoodles with allergies
- Only uses human-grade meats
- Formulated by PhD animal nutritionist
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4 – Darwin’s Natural Pet Products
Darwin’s is a subscription-based raw dog food brand for Golden doodles, making it one of the best raw dog food delivery services. Customers start by filling out a questionnaire about their Golden Doodle, 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 Golden Doodle 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 Goldendoodles with allergies
- Recipes formulated with the help of canine nutritionists
Related: Nom Nom vs Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Comparison
5 – Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Meals
Instinct offers another one of the best raw freeze dried Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle 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 Goldendoodles with allergies
- Other types of raw food are also available
6 – Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw
Open Farm offers a wide variety of Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle 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 Goldendoodles with allergies
- Lots of protein options
- Lists ingredient sourcing on the website
7 – 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 Goldendoodles 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 Golden Doodle. 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 Goldendoodles with allergies
- Easy to store
8. Wysong Raw Dog Food
Wysong offers several different types of raw dog food diets. Their original raw diet is Archetype, a bag of freeze-dried raw dog food that needs to be rehydrated before serving. Some Archetype recipes also come in burgers for customers who 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 its raw food, it also offers 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
9 – 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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle.
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 Golden Doodle 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
10 – 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 Golden Doodle, 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
11. 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 2025. Although the name and packaging are different, the food retains 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
12 – 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 Golden Doodle.
They offer chicken, beef, turkey, salmon, lamb, goat, and venison products. So, there are plenty of products to choose from regardless of your Golden Doodle’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 Golden Doodle. 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 Your Golden Doodle to Raw Dog Food
It’s always a good idea to do a gradual transition when switching your Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle 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 Golden Doodle’s health.
Related: Best Dry Dog Foods
Frequently Asked Questions About Raw Dog Food
1. What is raw dog food and why do Goldendoodles eat it?
Raw dog food typically includes uncooked meat, organs, bones, and sometimes fruits or vegetables. Many Goldendoodle parents choose raw diets to support digestion, skin health, and energy levels. Because Goldendoodles are active and often have sensitive stomachs, a well balanced raw diet can be appealing.
2. Is raw dog food safe for Goldendoodles?
Raw dog food can be safe when it is properly prepared and sourced from reputable brands. High quality raw food companies follow strict safety and handling standards. It is always best to consult your veterinarian before switching your Goldendoodle to a raw diet.
3. What are the benefits of raw food for Goldendoodles?
Many owners report shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and smaller stools when feeding raw. Raw diets may also support muscle development and sustained energy. These benefits can be especially noticeable in active, curly coated Goldendoodles.
4. Are Goldendoodles prone to allergies that raw food can help with?
Goldendoodles can be prone to food sensitivities, especially to fillers or artificial ingredients. Raw dog food often contains fewer processed ingredients, which may help reduce itching or digestive issues. Choosing a limited ingredient formula can be especially helpful.
5. How do I transition my Goldendoodle to raw dog food?
A slow transition is recommended to avoid stomach upset. Start by mixing small amounts of raw food with your dog’s current diet and gradually increase the ratio over one to two weeks. Monitor your Goldendoodle’s stool and energy levels during the change.
RELATED: Check Out Our List of Best Dog Foods
6. How much raw food should a Goldendoodle eat daily?
Most raw feeding guidelines suggest feeding two to three percent of your dog’s body weight daily. Activity level, age, and metabolism all play a role. Many raw food brands provide detailed feeding charts to make portions easier.
7. Can puppies eat raw dog food safely?
Goldendoodle puppies can eat raw food if the formula is specifically balanced for growth. Puppies need precise calcium and phosphorus ratios for healthy development. Always choose a raw brand designed for puppies or approved for all life stages.
8. Do raw diets help with Goldendoodle coat maintenance?
Many Goldendoodle owners notice improved coat texture and shine on raw diets. The natural fats and proteins can support healthy skin and reduce dryness. This can make brushing and grooming easier over time.
9. Are raw dog food brands nutritionally complete?
Reputable raw dog food brands are formulated to meet AAFCO nutritional standards. These brands include proper ratios of muscle meat, organs, bones, and supplements. It is important to avoid homemade raw diets unless guided by a veterinary nutritionist.
10. Is frozen or freeze dried raw better for Goldendoodles?
Frozen raw food closely mimics a natural diet but requires freezer space and careful handling. Freeze dried raw is more convenient and shelf stable while still offering raw benefits. Both options can work well depending on your lifestyle.
11. Can raw food improve digestion in Goldendoodles?
Many dogs experience better digestion on raw food due to fewer fillers and higher quality proteins. Goldendoodles with sensitive stomachs may have firmer stools and less gas. Results vary, so close observation is important during the transition.
12. Are there risks of bacteria in raw dog food?
Raw food can carry bacteria if not handled correctly. Top raw dog food brands use safety testing, high pressure processing, or strict sourcing standards to reduce risk. Practicing good hygiene at home also helps keep everyone safe.
13. Do veterinarians recommend raw diets for Goldendoodles?
Opinions vary among veterinarians. Some support raw feeding when done properly, while others prefer gently cooked or fresh diets. Discussing your Goldendoodle’s health history with your vet can help guide the best choice.
14. Is raw dog food more expensive than kibble?
Raw dog food often costs more upfront than traditional kibble. However, some owners feel the investment pays off through improved health and fewer vet visits. Prices vary widely by brand and format.
15. Can senior Goldendoodles eat raw food?
Senior Goldendoodles can eat raw food if it is easy to chew and properly balanced. Some older dogs benefit from higher moisture and digestibility. Adjusting portions and protein levels may be helpful for aging dogs.
16. How do I store raw dog food safely?
Frozen raw food should be stored in the freezer and thawed in the refrigerator. Freeze dried raw should be kept sealed in a cool, dry place. Always follow brand storage guidelines to maintain freshness.
17. Does raw food help with dental health?
Raw diets may help reduce plaque buildup due to natural chewing and cleaner ingredients. Some formulas include raw meaty bones or dental focused components. Regular dental care is still important for Goldendoodles.
18. Can Goldendoodles with picky eating habits enjoy raw food?
Many picky Goldendoodles find raw food more appealing due to its natural smell and texture. Rotating proteins can help maintain interest. Raw diets often make mealtime more exciting.
19. What proteins are best for Goldendoodles on raw diets?
Popular proteins include chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, and fish. Dogs with sensitivities may do better on novel proteins like duck or venison. Variety can help support balanced nutrition.
20. How do I choose the best raw dog food brand for my Goldendoodle?
Look for brands that meet AAFCO standards, use transparent sourcing, and offer clear feeding guidelines. Reading reviews from other Goldendoodle owners can also be helpful. The best choice is one that fits your dog’s needs and your lifestyle.
Is Raw Dog Food Right for Your Goldendoodle?
If you’re looking for a healthier diet for your Golden Doodle, 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 dehydrated raw dog food for easier storage.
No matter what brand you choose, the best raw dog food diet can help your Golden Doodle 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.
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