Instinct Freeze Dried Dog Food

What Exactly Is A Raw Diet For Dogs

So, what is a raw food diet for dogs? Most people really mean a raw meat diet.

Typically, it consists of a raw meat or protein base, Lindsey E. Bullen, DVM, DACVN, at Veterinary Specialty Hospital of the Carolinas in Cary, North Carolina, says. Anything from home-cooked to commercialincluding kibble, chubs and freeze-dried. Theres a lot of different types and forms, but typically it means uncooked.

Besides the meat/protein, she says they often include a carbohydratesuch as grain, sweet potato, peas or lentiland a fat source, such as oil, chicken skin or liver.

Homemade raw food diets for dogs usually are primarily raw meat, sometimes with vegetables, says Joseph Bartges, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM, DACVN, professor of medicine and nutrition in the department of small animal medicine and surgery at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in Athens, Georgia.

Creating a balanced raw diet for dogs at home using whole foods is difficult to do, says Lisa Weeth, DVM, DACVN, founder of Weeth Nutrition Services and a veterinarian in the nutrition department of Metropolitan Animal Specialty Hospital in Los Angeles, California, says

It takes about 20 ingredients, no substitutes or rotating, etc. I havent found any home-prepared diet that owners found out of a book or another resource that has provided all the nutrient needs.

Commercial raw diets tend to be more complete and balanced, Dr. Bartges says.

The Majority Of Freeze

There was a time when grain-free dog foods were considered superior to their grain-inclusive counterparts. Now, the overwhelming majority of dogs digest cooked grains without issue, but some owners decided thats what they wanted for their pets, and the market obliged.

However, grain-free foods have recently become correlated with heart problems in dogs. A causal relationship between the two have not yet been established, but we typically encourage owners to stick to grain-inclusive foods .

But unfortunately, very few if any freeze-dried dog foods are grain-inclusive. Does this mean your dog will be at increased risk of heart problems by consuming a grain-free food?

It isnt clear yet.

So, be sure to discuss the issue with your vet and make the best choice you can on behalf of your dog. Also, be sure to check out our article about grain-free foods and dilated cardiomyopathy before making your choice.

Is Instinct Food Good For Dogs

Yes, Instinct Dog Food is good.

Instinct Dog food is an affordable holistic pet food brand that provides dogs with healthy food without any filler, preservatives, or controversial ingredients.

All Instinct Dog Food recipes meet the nutrient requirements of the Association of American Feed Control Officials . Their standard is derived from the Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats published by the National Research Council of the National Academies of Science in Washington, D.C.

Please be aware that while Instinct Dog Food is excellent for pet health, it is not human grade. Instinct Dog Food has also had an above-average number of recalls since production began.

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Are You A California Resident

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Is Instinct Raw Food Good For Dogs

Yes, Instinct Raw Dog Food is good.

Instinct Dog Food is great for dogs as it uses non-GMO ingredients and offers a range of products. Whether you opt for their freeze-dried dog food, raw longevity, or the limited ingredient diet, you can be sure of the quality and selected animal protein sources like cage-free chicken, beef, or lamb.

The Instinct products are formulated withprobiotics that improve digestion and omega-fatty acids that develop the skin & coat. Their product is formulated without grains, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals, artificial colors, or preservatives.

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What Do Others Say About Instinct

As of the time of this update

Chewy customers rate Instinct 4.6 out of 5 stars and 94% say they would recommend it to others.

Heres an actual user review

Sample buyer reviewI have a large breed very picky eater. I tried numerous brands when she was a puppy and finally ended up adding gravy and hotdogs to get her to eat. She is now 6 years old and I recently tried instinct original. What a turn around. She not only gobbles it down but sits in front of the bag of food asking for more. This is literally the first dog food besides wet that she likes let alone craves. I chose it after reading multiple reviews that listed it as one of the top choices.

• Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Chicken Natural Wet

How Long Do Freeze

While all freeze-dried dog foods last quite a while, the exact length of time theyll remain safe to feed varies from one product to the next. Just consult the manufacturers guidelines on the product packaging to be sure.

Do you feed your dog a freeze-dried pet food? Do you use it as a treat, a topper on his dry food, or his primary food? What types of changes in your dogs health or behavior have you noticed since making the switch? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

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Potential Downsides Of Freeze

Roberts has two main concerns about freeze-dried dog food. First, when you take food out of its natural statein this case, by drying it out and rehydrating it laterit is never quite as easy to digest as it is in its original form, she says. Second, its hideously expensive, she adds, so the convenience comes at a cost.

According to Nielsen data, freeze-dried pet food clocks in, on average, at $33 per pound, compared to $10 or $11 for air-dried or dehydrated pet foods .

Many veterinarians also worry about illness-causing bacteria. Freeze-drying alone, without a prior heating/cooking step, is not an effective way to eliminate microbial pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria, says veterinary nutritionist Dr. Megan Shepherd, who is also a clinical assistant professor of nutrition at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech. Therefore, I recommend avoiding raw and freeze-dried animal tissue-based products, unless the manufacturer can confirm that the finished product is pathogen-free.

Is Instinct Dog Food Good For Older Dogs

Instinct Raw Boost Senior Grain-Free with Real Chicken is designed specifically for older dogs. Each recipe contains over 40% dry matter protein and about 18% fat. Calorie content is around 478 calories per cup. The recipe meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages which makes it a healthy option for senior dogs. For more choices, visit The Dog Food Advisors best senior dog foods here.

Recommended Reading: Dog Food With Omega 3

Natures Diet Simply Raw Freeze

Image courtesy Chewy

Natures Diet Simply Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food is an all-natural, grain-free food that is perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

This food is made with real meat and organs, as well as vegetables and fruits. It is then freeze-dried to preserve the nutrients and flavor. Natures Diet Simply Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food is a complete and balanced meal that is easy to digest and full of flavor.

Instinct Raw Longevity 100% Freeze

We want all pets to live longer, happier, healthier lives and that starts with the food they eat.

We want all pets to live longer, happier, healthier lives and that starts with the food they eat. That’s why Instinct Raw Longevity is raising the bar for raw pet nutrition using recipes intentionally crafted by our pet nutrition scientists. We’ve figured out how to provide not just the right nutrients, but the right amounts to support optimal health – from your pet’s coat to their gut to their heart. Because your pet deserves the best life possible – and it starts with the real nutrition of raw.

Also Check: When Should Dogs Eat Senior Food

Instinct Raw Dog Food Summary

• Best Instinct Dog Food for Puppies:Instinct Raw Boost Puppy Grain-Free RecipeThis grain-free recipe is perfect for dogs who have a sensitive stomach or suffer from food allergies.
• Best Instinct Dog Food for Weight Control:Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain-Free RecipeIf you are looking for dog food that helps to manage your dogs weight, this is the perfect product for your arsenal.
• Best Instinct Dog Food for Overall Health:Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Meals Grain-Free Recipe Dog FoodMade with an innovative formulation, this dog food is a top-rated product on platforms such as Amazon and Chewy.
• Best Instinct Dog Food Topper for Gut Health:Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Boost Mixers Grain-Free Gut Health Dog Food TopperThis dog food topper is perfect for all life stages and packs a delicious flavor while supporting gut health.
• Best Instinct Dog Food Topper for Mobility Support:Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers Grain-Free Mobility Support Dog Food TopperThis dog food topper provides mobility support for those dogs who have problems in their joints.

Who Makes Instinct Dog Food

Instinct is owned by Natures Variety of Lincoln, Nebraska. All Instinct recipes are made at the companys own facilities in Lincoln.

Each Instinct dog food is formulated by the companys on-staff professionals. This includes a veterinarian who is board-certified in both veterinary nutrition and integrative medicine.

The companys chief scientific officer holds a PhD in food science. And one of its directors of research and development holds a masters degree in the same field.

Read Also: How To Get Your Dog To Eat Dog Food

Instinct Dog Food Summary

• Best Overall Instinct Dog Food Overall: Instinct Dog Grain-Free Dry Dog FoodHigh protein grain-free dog food made with real meat to improve gut health, heart, muscle, and other conditions.
• Best Instinct Dog Food for Picky Eaters:Instinct Be Natural Dry Dog FoodMade with real meat and responsibly sourced fruits and vegetables, this dry dog food is a favorite amongst pets.
• Best Instinct Dog Food for Small Breeds: Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain-Free RecipeGrain-free high protein kibble packed with raw, freeze-dried meat and unprocessed fruits for small breed dogs.
• Best Instinct Dog Food for Allergies: Instinct Healthy Cravings Grain-Free RecipeGrain-free, delicious, and nicely-textured wet dog food with cuts of real meat suitable for all dog sizes.
• Best Freeze-Dried Instinct Dog Food: Instinct Dog Freeze-Dried Raw MealsThis minimally processed raw dog food is packed with proteins and nutrients to support health and weight control.
• Best Limited Ingredient Instinct Dog Food: Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free RecipeGrain-free raw coated kibble with limited ingredients and no additives, perfect for dogs with food allergies.
• Best Wet Instinct Dog Food: Instinct Original Grain-Free Canned Dog FoodWith real meat as the first ingredients, this wet dog food is packed with essential nutrients to meet the dogs dietary needs.

Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food

Image courtesy Chewy

Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food is a grain-free food that is infused with raw, freeze-dried meat.

The first five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, tapioca flour, and turkey meal. These provide your dog with the protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals they need to stay healthy and happy.

Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Dry Dog Food is made in the USA with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Also Check: What Is Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

Stella And Chewys Freeze

Image courtesy Stella & Chewys

With Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Super Beef Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food, you can give your dog what he wants. This all-natural recipe makes it simple to feed your finest friend only the high-quality ingredients he needs.

This recipe, which begins with 95% grass-fed beef, organs and bone, as well as 100% certified-organic fruits and vegetables, provides the advantages of raw food nutrition without the effort of freeze-drying.

Each batch is made with care in Stella & Chewy’s own U.S. kitchen to guarantee the best quality possible.

What Is Instinct Dog Food

Instinct Dog Food is a pet food brand owned by Natures Variety, a pet company solely owned by Barcelona, Spain-based Agrolimen.

The Instinct Dog Food product line focuses on natural, raw, and grain-free foods for dogs. It offers both kibble and canned wet dog food varieties. The brand also makes cat food.

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Raw Dog Food: A Guide To Feeding A Raw Diet For Dogs

Pet parents want the very best for their four-legged besties, including long, happy and healthy lives. The key to that is feeding them a complete, balanced and nutritious diet. But what if the diet isnt working? Pet parents search high and low to find what will work for their precious pooches, of course! For Caesar, a purebred German Shepherd living in Foothill Ranch, California, it was a raw dog food diet.

For the first few years of his life, Caesar ate what his human parents believed was a good quality kibble diet. The problem: Caesar was very itchy.

Every time we took Caesar to the vet, they said it was the pollen or his allergy system, Sonika Jain, Caesars mom, says. They gave steroid medications to ease the itching, but it would improve and then come back.

Jain felt they were treating the symptoms, but never pinpointing the cause of Caesars itchy discomfort. No one ever talked about food. By the time Caesar was 1½ years old, his rear end started smelling bad.

The antibiotics didnt work. Jain cleaned him daily, but her beloved pet still had smelly discharge. Within a few days of switching Caesar to cancer medication, he was lethargic and had no interest in playing and eating.

Instead of an energetic pup, he was like an old dog, Jain says.

Thats when she took to the Internet, searching for answers and options.

Within two weeks of switching Caesar to a frozen raw dog food, the smell went away, and his behavior returned to normal.

Chewy Pharmacy Pet Medications

Not only does Chewy offer the best pet supplies, but you can also order pet prescriptions and have them delivered right to your doorstep. There’s no need to take a trip to the vet’s office to pick up pet medications during office hours. Instead, you can order dog medicine and cat medicine online along with your regular cat supplies and dog supplies and receive them in your Chewy box in less than a week – before your pets run out of the veterinary medicines they need. No matter what pet prescriptions your furry friends need, you can have them filled in our online pet pharmacy. Chewy makes ordering and refilling your pet meds online an easy and quick process from start to finish. You can even add them to your Autoship account, so you’ll never forget to reorder pet medications. Our dedicated Chewy Rx team will answer any questions you have, and they will even contact your veterinarian to approve online pet medications.

Senior pets can benefit from veterinary medicines that help manage joint pain like pet arthritis medications and other pain relief prescriptions. To keep your pet’s oral health on track, especially in between regular cleanings, we offer cat and dog dental care options, including prescription chews, sprays and wipes.

For the many pets who suffer from food, environmental or seasonal allergies, Chewy stocks allergy medicine for dogs and cats.

Whatever your ear and eye needs are, Chewy’s online pharmacy has you covered.

Are online pet pharmacies safe?

Also Check: What Can Puppies Eat Other Than Dog Food

Is Instinct Considered A Healthy Dog Food

All Instinct recipes meet dog food nutrient profiles established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials . These standards are based on the Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats published by the National Research Council of the National Academies of Science in Washington, D.C. Each Instinct recipe is complete and balanced for the canine life stage printed on the package.

The Simple Food Project Beef & Salmon Recipe

Image courtesy The Simple Food

The Simple Food Project Beef & Salmon Recipe is an all-natural, grain-free food that is perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

This food is made with real meat and organs, as well as vegetables and fruits. It is then freeze-dried to preserve the nutrients and flavor. The Simple Food Project Beef & Salmon Recipe is a complete and balanced meal that is easy to digest and full of flavor.

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Our Commitment As The Raw Brand