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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Exceptional palatability and freeze-dried quality: Nature’s Blend consistently wins over picky eaters with its strong meaty aroma and minimal processing that preserves nutrients better than traditional kibble.
• Premium pricing creates significant affordability barriers: At $37-$50 per pound, feeding costs range from $3.50 daily for small dogs to $25-$30 for large breeds, making it prohibitively expensive for most owners.
• Impressive ingredient transparency with some gaps: Features whole meats, organ meats, and no artificial additives, but lacks third-party lab testing and feeding trials despite the premium price point.
• Calorie-dense formula requires careful portion control: With 256 calories per cup and 39% protein content, this food delivers excellent nutrition but can easily lead to weight gain in sedentary dogs.
• Better value alternatives exist for most dog owners: Fresh food brands like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie provide similar quality at lower costs, making Nature’s Blend primarily suitable for small dogs or as a topper.
If you’re exploring premium options and wondering how Nature’s Blend stacks up against more budget-friendly choices, you might also want to check out our dog food from Pride review for a different perspective on value and quality.
Nature’s Blend is the flagship product line from Dr. Marty Pets, a brand founded by veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstein. Dr. Goldstein graduated from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1973 and built his career around holistic animal health, eventually launching his own line of dog food around 2017–2019. The brand’s mission centers on one core belief: dogs thrive on real, minimally processed food—just as nature intended.
The company operates under the umbrella of Golden Hippo, a marketing and ecommerce firm, and produces its food at the Golden Pet Manufacturing facility in Richfield, Wisconsin. This facility opened in 2023 and represents a significant investment in vertical integration, giving Dr. Marty Pets more control over ingredient traceability, quality assurance, and sustainability practices. The brand has grown rapidly, reporting over 14 million units sold as of December 2023 and winning “Dog Food Company of the Year” at the 2025 Pet Innovation Awards.
Nature’s Blend positions itself firmly in the premium segment, targeting health-conscious dog owners who are willing to pay significantly more for freeze-dried raw nutrition. The brand emphasizes transparency in sourcing, no artificial additives, and a formula built around whole meats and nutrient-dense superfoods. It’s a direct-to-consumer model primarily, though you’ll also find it on Amazon, Chewy, and select specialty retailers.
Dr. Marty Pets markets Nature’s Blend as a solution for pet parents who want to move away from highly processed kibble. The brand’s messaging consistently highlights real food, transparency, and holistic health. There’s a strong emphasis on what’s not in the food—no grains, fillers, by-products, or synthetic preservatives—alongside what is in it: USDA-inspected meats, organ meats, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.
The company has no history of recalls over the past decade, which speaks to its commitment to quality control. That said, it’s worth noting that while the brand is transparent about ingredients and processing, it doesn’t publish third-party lab results or independent audits. For a brand at this price point, that’s a gap some buyers might find frustrating.
| Price per pound | $37 – $50 |
| Primary protein | Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Duck |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulated only, no feeding trials) |
| Formula options | Multiple lines (Essential Wellness, Active Vitality, Sensitivity Select, Small Breed) |
| Availability | Direct-to-consumer, Amazon, Chewy, select specialty retailers |
Let’s get into what’s actually in the bag. Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness—the core product—lists its first ingredients as turkey, beef, salmon, and duck. These are whole, named meats, not meals or by-products, which is a strong start. The formula also includes organ meats like beef liver, turkey liver, and turkey heart, all of which are nutrient-dense and provide natural vitamins and minerals that synthetic supplements can’t always replicate.
The protein sources are diverse and high-quality. Turkey and beef provide the bulk of the amino acids, while salmon adds omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Duck is less common in dog food and can be a good option for dogs with sensitivities to more traditional proteins like chicken. The inclusion of organ meats is a real standout—these are some of the most nutrient-rich parts of the animal and are often missing from kibble formulas.
What I find impressive about this formula is that it’s freeze-dried raw, which means the meats are minimally processed. Freeze-drying preserves the nutritional integrity of the proteins without the need for high-heat cooking, which can degrade vitamins and amino acids. For dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who thrive on raw diets, this is a meaningful advantage.
Nature’s Blend is grain-free, relying on sweet potato, pea flour, and flaxseed for its carbohydrate content. Sweet potato is a solid choice—it’s easily digestible and provides fiber and vitamins. Pea flour, however, is worth discussing. It’s a legume-based ingredient that’s been flagged in FDA investigations into dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, particularly when legumes make up a large portion of grain-free diets. While there’s no direct evidence linking Nature’s Blend to DCM, it’s something to be aware of if you’re feeding this as your dog’s sole diet long-term.
Flaxseed adds omega-3s and fiber, which support digestive health and coat quality. It’s a functional ingredient that fits well within the formula’s whole-food philosophy.
One ingredient that occasionally raises eyebrows is egg, which is listed in the formula. Eggs are highly digestible and provide excellent protein, but they can be an allergen for some dogs. If your dog has a known sensitivity to eggs, this food won’t be suitable.
Beyond that, the ingredient list is remarkably clean. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The only preservative used is mixed tocopherols, a natural form of vitamin E. No corn, wheat, soy, or by-products appear anywhere in the formula. For owners who prioritize ingredient transparency, Nature’s Blend ticks all the boxes.
Unlike many kibble brands, Nature’s Blend doesn’t rely heavily on synthetic vitamin and mineral supplements. The formula is designed to provide nutrients naturally through whole foods. That said, some of the specialized lines—like Healthy Digestion—do include added probiotics and prebiotics to support gut health. The senior formula, Active Vitality, incorporates green-lipped mussel and tart cherry for joint and immune support, which are functional ingredients backed by some research.
Overall, the ingredient list reflects a commitment to minimally processed, whole-food nutrition. It’s not perfect—the reliance on legumes and the lack of variety in protein options could be improved—but it’s certainly among the better formulas in the premium freeze-dried category.
Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness delivers 37% protein and 28% fat on an as-fed basis, which translates to exceptionally high levels when you account for the low moisture content (only 6%). On a dry matter basis, you’re looking at roughly 39% protein and 30% fat—numbers that rival or exceed most raw and freeze-dried competitors.
The high protein content is ideal for active dogs, puppies, and breeds with high metabolic demands. It supports muscle maintenance, immune function, and overall vitality. The fat content is also robust, providing energy and supporting healthy skin and coat. For dogs with lower activity levels or a tendency to gain weight, you’ll need to be careful with portion sizes—this is a calorie-dense food.
Carbohydrates make up an estimated 15% of the formula, which is low compared to most kibble brands. This aligns with the brand’s focus on meat-first nutrition and can be beneficial for dogs that do better on lower-carb diets.
The formula provides 2.5% omega-3 fatty acids, which is higher than average and supports joint health, brain function, and skin quality. Iron is listed at 40 mg/kg, and vitamin A at 50,000 IU/kg, both of which are well within safe ranges and meet AAFCO standards.
One thing to note is that Nature’s Blend is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, but it has not undergone AAFCO feeding trials. Feeding trials are considered the gold standard for validating nutritional adequacy because they involve real dogs eating the food over time. Formulation alone relies on calculations and assumes the nutrients are bioavailable, which isn’t always the case. For a brand at this price point, the absence of feeding trials is a missed opportunity.
Nature’s Blend is extremely calorie-dense. At roughly 256 calories per cup and about 5,648 kcal/kg, a little goes a long way. For a 10-pound dog, you’re looking at around two-thirds of a cup per day, which costs approximately $3.50 to $4. For a 60-pound dog, you’re feeding around 3.5 cups daily, which can run $17 to $21 per day. That’s not a typo—this is one of the most expensive dog foods on the market when you calculate daily feeding costs.
The high caloric density does mean you’re feeding smaller volumes, which can be easier on digestion and result in smaller, firmer stools. Many owners report this as a noticeable benefit, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Nature’s Blend is best suited for adult dogs of all sizes who are active, healthy, and have no specific dietary restrictions. The high protein and fat content make it an excellent choice for working dogs, athletic breeds, and dogs with high energy demands. If your dog is constantly on the move and needs a nutrient-dense food to keep up, this formula delivers.
It’s also a strong option for picky eaters. The freeze-dried format and real meat ingredients tend to be highly palatable, and many owners report that dogs who refuse other foods will eagerly eat Nature’s Blend. If you’ve been struggling to find something your dog will consistently eat, this is worth a shot.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs often do well on this food, particularly if they’ve had issues with highly processed kibble. The minimal ingredient list and lack of artificial additives can reduce the likelihood of digestive upset. The Sensitivity Select line is specifically designed for dogs with food sensitivities, using novel proteins and limited ingredients to minimize allergic reactions.
For senior dogs, the Active Vitality formula is tailored to support joint health, immune function, and overall aging. The inclusion of green-lipped mussel and antioxidant-rich superfoods makes it a thoughtful choice for older dogs who need extra nutritional support.
That said, Nature’s Blend isn’t for everyone. If your dog is overweight or prone to weight gain, the high caloric density could be a challenge. You’ll need to be precise with portions, and even then, the fat content might be more than a sedentary dog needs.
It’s also not ideal for dogs with egg allergies, as eggs are a core ingredient. And while the grain-free formula is fine for most dogs, if your vet has specifically recommended a grain-inclusive diet—particularly in light of DCM concerns—this food won’t meet that need.
Finally, the cost is prohibitive for many owners, especially those with large or multiple dogs. Feeding a 100-pound dog exclusively on Nature’s Blend can easily cost $25 to $30 per day, which adds up to $750 to $900 per month. For most people, that’s simply not sustainable.
One of the most consistent pieces of feedback from owners is that dogs love the taste. The freeze-dried format gives the food a strong, meaty aroma that’s immediately appealing to most dogs. In reviews, roughly 40 to 45% of owners specifically mention that their dog is enthusiastic at mealtime, with some saying it’s the only food their dog will eat.
Puppies, adults, and seniors all seem to find the food highly palatable. The Small Breed line, which is cut into smaller pieces, is particularly popular with toy and small-breed owners who appreciate the bite-sized format. The texture is crumbly and easy to chew, which works well for dogs with dental issues or those who prefer softer food.
That said, there are occasional reports of dogs refusing the food or losing interest after initially liking it. These cases are relatively rare—maybe 5 to 8% of reviews—but they do happen. Some owners suspect batch-to-batch variation, while others think their dog simply got bored. Either way, it’s worth keeping in mind that no food is universally accepted, no matter how high the quality.
From a practical standpoint, feeding Nature’s Blend is straightforward. You can serve it dry, or you can rehydrate it by adding water (the brand recommends a 2:1 water-to-food ratio and soaking for at least three minutes). Rehydrating gives it a more “wet food” texture, which some dogs prefer, and can help with hydration if your dog doesn’t drink enough water.
The food doesn’t require refrigeration before opening, which is convenient, but once rehydrated it should be used within a few hours. If you’re mixing it with kibble or using it as a topper, you can skip the rehydration step and just sprinkle it on top.
Let’s be blunt: Nature’s Blend is expensive. At $37 to $50 per pound depending on where you buy it and what size bag you choose, it’s one of the priciest dog foods available. A 16-ounce bag on Amazon can run $50, while a 48-ounce bag directly from Dr. Marty Pets is around $130. Even with subscription discounts, you’re still paying a premium.
To put this in perspective, standard kibble from brands like Purina Pro Plan or Hill’s Science Diet costs $2 to $4 per pound. Other freeze-dried raw brands like Stella & Chewy’s or Primal range from $32 to $45 per pound, so Nature’s Blend is on the high end even within its own category.
The daily feeding cost varies dramatically by dog size. For a 10-pound dog, you’re looking at $3.50 to $4 per day, which is manageable for many owners. For a 60-pound dog, that jumps to $17 to $21 per day, or roughly $510 to $630 per month. For a 100-pound dog, you could easily spend $750 to $900 per month. That’s a significant financial commitment, and it’s worth asking whether the benefits justify the cost.
What you’re paying for is ingredient quality, minimal processing, and convenience. The freeze-dried format preserves nutrients better than kibble, and the ingredient list is genuinely impressive. If your dog has specific health issues that respond well to a raw or minimally processed diet—like chronic digestive problems, skin allergies, or low energy—then the cost might be worth it.
But for a healthy dog without special needs, there are more affordable options that still offer high-quality nutrition. Brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie provide fresh, human-grade food at a lower price point, especially if you’re feeding a medium or large dog.
One way to make Nature’s Blend more affordable is to use it as a topper or supplement rather than a complete diet. Mixing a small amount with kibble can improve palatability and add a nutritional boost without breaking the bank. This approach also reduces the risk of any long-term concerns related to grain-free diets, since you’re diversifying your dog’s food sources.
Nature’s Blend is produced at the Golden Pet Manufacturing facility in Richfield, Wisconsin, which opened in 2023. This facility represents a significant investment in vertical integration, giving Dr. Marty Pets more control over ingredient sourcing, production processes, and quality assurance. Earlier production was also reported at a facility in Woodland Hills, California, though the Wisconsin plant now appears to be the primary site.
The freeze-drying process is central to the brand’s identity. Freeze-drying removes moisture from raw ingredients at low temperatures, which preserves nutrients, enzymes, and flavor without the need for high-heat cooking. This process is more expensive and time-consuming than traditional kibble production, but it results in a product that’s closer to raw food in nutritional profile.
The brand claims that all ingredients are USDA-inspected and sourced in the United States, though specific details about supplier farms or traceability systems aren’t publicly available. For a brand at this price point, more transparency around sourcing would be reassuring.
Dr. Marty Pets emphasizes quality control, and the fact that there have been no recalls in over a decade is a strong indicator of consistent production standards. However, the brand does not publish third-party lab results or independent audits, which is a gap. Leading premium brands often provide access to lab reports showing heavy metal content, microbial testing, and nutrient verification. The absence of this level of transparency is noticeable.
That said, customer reviews rarely mention quality issues like mold, rancid odor, or contamination. When such issues do arise, they’re isolated and typically resolved quickly by customer service. The company’s response rate to complaints is high, and they generally offer replacements or refunds without hassle.
Dr. Marty Pets has made some efforts toward sustainability, particularly with the opening of the Wisconsin facility. The plant reportedly uses high-efficiency boilers and water heaters, as well as high-pressure processing pumps that reduce energy use by 15%. Inedible waste is sent to rendering for reuse, and the company has expanded its recycling initiatives.
Freeze-drying is an energy-intensive process, so it’s not the most environmentally friendly production method. The brand’s packaging—laminated plastic bags—is not clearly marketed as recyclable, which is a missed opportunity. Some competitors in the premium space have moved toward more sustainable packaging, and it would be good to see Dr. Marty Pets follow suit.
The brand emphasizes USDA-inspected meats and claims to source high-quality ingredients, but there’s limited information about animal welfare standards or specific sourcing practices. There’s no mention of certifications like Certified Humane or Animal Welfare Approved, which some buyers in this price range might expect.
On the positive side, there’s no evidence of animal testing for finished products, and the brand’s holistic philosophy aligns with a health-first approach. Still, more transparency around sourcing and sustainability would strengthen the brand’s ethical profile.
I work at a dog shelter, and we recently tested Nature’s Blend with one of our longer-term residents, a five-year-old mixed-breed named Juno. Juno came to us about eight months ago after being surrendered by her previous owner. She’s a medium-sized dog, around 45 pounds, with a short brown and white coat and one floppy ear that never quite stands up. She’s generally healthy, though she’s always been a somewhat picky eater and tends to lose interest in her food after a few days on the same brand.
When we first opened the bag of Nature’s Blend, Juno was immediately curious. The smell is strong—much meatier than kibble—and she started circling the bowl before we even finished pouring. That level of enthusiasm was unusual for her, so it was a promising start.
We transitioned her gradually over about five days, mixing increasing amounts of Nature’s Blend with her previous food. She took to it quickly, with no signs of digestive upset. By the end of the transition period, she was eating the full serving of Nature’s Blend without hesitation. What stood out was that she stayed interested. Even after two weeks, she was still eating eagerly, which is rare for Juno.
We fed her the rehydrated version for most meals, adding water and letting it soak for a few minutes. She seemed to prefer it that way—probably because it gave the food a softer texture and released even more of the aroma. On days when we were short on time and served it dry, she still ate it, just with slightly less enthusiasm.
Over the three weeks we fed her Nature’s Blend, we noticed a few subtle changes. Her coat looked a bit shinier, though that could also be attributed to the fact that she was eating more consistently. Her stools were firmer and smaller, which made cleanup easier and suggested better digestibility. She didn’t seem more energetic or dramatically different in behavior, but she did seem more content overall—less restless around mealtimes and more settled afterward.
From a practical standpoint, feeding Nature’s Blend was easy. The bags are resealable, and the food doesn’t require refrigeration before opening, which is convenient in a shelter setting. The only minor hassle was remembering to soak it ahead of time, but that became routine quickly. The fact that Juno stayed interested in the food was the biggest win—it’s frustrating when a dog loses interest after a few days, and we didn’t have that problem with this brand.
Overall, Juno did well on Nature’s Blend. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation, but it was a positive experience. She ate consistently, her digestion was solid, and she seemed satisfied. For a picky eater like her, that’s more than enough to consider the test a success.
Nature’s Blend has a strong reputation among dog owners, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 across major review platforms like Amazon, Chewy, and Trustpilot. Positive reviews far outweigh negative ones, with roughly 82 to 85% of feedback being favorable.
The most frequently mentioned benefit is palatability. Around 40 to 45% of positive reviews specifically mention that their dog loves the food or won’t eat anything else. Many owners report success with picky eaters, which aligns with what we saw in our shelter test with Juno.
Another common theme is improved coat quality. About 15% of positive reviews mention a shinier, softer coat within two to six weeks of starting the food. Some owners also report reduced shedding and fewer skin issues, which they attribute to the high omega-3 content and quality of the ingredients.
Digestive improvements are frequently cited as well. Owners mention firmer stools, less gas, and easier digestion, particularly for dogs with sensitive stomachs. A handful of reviews note that dogs with chronic digestive issues showed noticeable improvement after switching to Nature’s Blend.
The biggest complaint—by far—is the price. About 15 to 18% of reviews mention that the food is too expensive, especially for larger dogs. Some owners say they’d love to continue feeding it but simply can’t afford to do so long-term.
A smaller percentage of reviews (around 5 to 8%) report that their dog refused to eat the food or stopped eating it after initially liking it. These cases seem to be isolated, but they do happen. Some owners suspect batch-to-batch variation, while others think their dog simply got bored.
Digestive issues like diarrhea or gas are mentioned in about 3 to 5% of reviews, usually during the transition period. A few owners report more serious reactions, but these are rare and may be related to individual sensitivities rather than the food itself.
There’s been some frustration around formula changes. About 3% of reviews mention that the recipe changed in 2023, and some dogs stopped eating it afterward. Others say the food smells different or that the texture has changed. These complaints are relatively minor, but they’re worth noting if you’re considering a long-term commitment to this brand.
Occasional reports of quality issues—like a rancid smell or mold in the bag—pop up in reviews, but these are very rare (less than 2%). When they do occur, the company’s customer service typically resolves the issue quickly with a replacement or refund.
Nature’s Blend sits at the top of the premium freeze-dried category, but it’s far from the only option. Brands like Stella & Chewy’s and Primal offer similar freeze-dried raw formulas at a slightly lower price point, typically $32 to $45 per pound. Both of these brands have a wider variety of protein options and more transparent sourcing information, which some buyers might prefer.
If you’re looking for fresh, human-grade food but want to avoid the freeze-dried format, brands like Nom Nom and Spot & Tango offer gently cooked meals that are delivered fresh. These options are often more affordable for medium and large dogs, and they provide similar benefits in terms of ingredient quality and digestibility.
For owners who want the convenience of fresh food but need more flexibility, The Pets Table offers both fresh and air-dried options with a flexible subscription model. It’s a good middle ground between freeze-dried and fresh, and it’s backed by HelloFresh’s logistics network, which ensures reliable delivery.
At the other end of the spectrum, budget-friendly brands like Pride Dog Food offer solid nutrition at a fraction of the cost. While Pride uses more conventional ingredients like grain and meat by-products, it’s a reliable option for working dogs and owners who need to feed multiple dogs without breaking the bank.
Nature’s Blend is best suited for active, healthy adult dogs who need a nutrient-dense, high-protein diet. It’s an excellent choice for working dogs, athletic breeds, and dogs with high energy demands. If your dog is constantly on the go and needs a food that can keep up, this formula delivers.
It’s also a strong option for picky eaters. The freeze-dried format and real meat ingredients tend to be highly palatable, and many owners report that dogs who refuse other foods will eagerly eat Nature’s Blend. If you’ve been struggling to find something your dog will consistently eat, this is worth a shot.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs often do well on this food, particularly if they’ve had issues with highly processed kibble. The minimal ingredient list and lack of artificial additives can reduce the likelihood of digestive upset. The Sensitivity Select line is specifically designed for dogs with food sensitivities, using novel proteins and limited ingredients to minimize allergic reactions.
For senior dogs, the Active Vitality formula is tailored to support joint health, immune function, and overall aging. The inclusion of green-lipped mussel and antioxidant-rich superfoods makes it a thoughtful choice for older dogs who need extra nutritional support.
That said, Nature’s Blend isn’t for everyone. If your dog is overweight or prone to weight gain, the high caloric density could be a challenge. You’ll need to be precise with portions, and even then, the fat content might be more than a sedentary dog needs.
It’s also not ideal for dogs with egg allergies, as eggs are a core ingredient. And while the grain-free formula is fine for most dogs, if your vet has specifically recommended a grain-inclusive diet—particularly in light of DCM concerns—this food won’t meet that need.
Finally, the cost is prohibitive for many owners, especially those with large or multiple dogs. Feeding a 100-pound dog exclusively on Nature’s Blend can easily cost $25 to $30 per day, which adds up to $750 to $900 per month. For most people, that’s simply not sustainable.
Here’s my honest take: Nature’s Blend is a high-quality dog food with an impressive ingredient list, minimal processing, and strong palatability. If you have a small to medium-sized dog with no major health issues and you can afford the premium price, it’s a solid choice. The freeze-dried format preserves nutrients well, and the whole-food approach is genuinely better than most kibble on the market.
But—and this is important—I’m not convinced it’s worth the cost for most owners. At $37 to $50 per pound, you’re paying a significant premium, and while the quality is there, the benefits don’t always justify the expense, especially for larger dogs. If your dog has specific health issues that respond well to a raw or minimally processed diet, then yes, the investment makes sense. But for a healthy dog without special needs, there are more affordable options that still deliver excellent nutrition.
Brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, or Spot & Tango offer fresh, human-grade food at a lower price point, and they’re backed by more transparent sourcing and better customer support. If you’re feeding a large dog, the cost difference between Nature’s Blend and these alternatives is substantial.
Would I buy this for my own dog? If I had a small dog with a sensitive stomach or a picky eater who refused other foods, I’d consider it. But for my medium-sized dog, I’d probably opt for a fresh food brand with better value or use Nature’s Blend as a topper rather than a complete diet.
Would I recommend it to a friend? Only if they have a small dog, a generous budget, and a specific reason to prioritize freeze-dried raw nutrition. For everyone else, I’d suggest looking at more affordable alternatives that still prioritize quality ingredients and minimal processing.
In short, Nature’s Blend is good—but it’s not the best value, and it’s not the only option. If you’re willing to pay a premium for convenience and ingredient purity, it’s a strong choice. But if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, there are better options out there.
The daily cost varies dramatically by dog size. For a 10-pound dog, you’re looking at $3.50 to $4 per day. For a 60-pound dog, that jumps to $17 to $21 per day, and for a 100-pound dog, you could easily spend $25 to $30 per day. This makes it one of the most expensive dog foods on the market when calculated by daily feeding costs.
Yes, Nature’s Blend is completely grain-free. The formula relies on sweet potato, pea flour, and flaxseed for carbohydrates instead of grains like wheat, corn, or rice. However, if your dog has an egg allergy, this food won’t be suitable as eggs are a core ingredient in the formula.
Absolutely. Using Nature’s Blend as a topper or supplement is actually a great way to make it more affordable while still providing nutritional benefits. Mixing a small amount with regular kibble can improve palatability and add a nutritional boost without breaking the bank. This approach also reduces any potential long-term concerns related to grain-free diets since you’re diversifying your dog’s food sources.
Transition gradually over about five to seven days, mixing increasing amounts of Nature’s Blend with your dog’s current food. Start with 75% old food and 25% Nature’s Blend for the first two days, then move to 50/50 for two days, then 25% old food and 75% Nature’s Blend, before switching completely. This helps prevent digestive upset during the transition.
Both options work well. You can serve it dry as a convenient option, or rehydrate it by adding water in a 2:1 ratio and soaking for at least three minutes. Many dogs prefer the rehydrated version because it gives the food a softer texture and releases more of the meaty aroma. Rehydrating can also help with hydration if your dog doesn’t drink enough water.
Nature’s Blend is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, so it’s technically suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors. However, the brand offers specialized formulas like Active Vitality for seniors, which includes joint-supporting ingredients like green-lipped mussel and tart cherry. For puppies, the high protein content (37%) makes it appropriate for growing dogs with high energy needs.
No, Dr. Marty Pets has no history of recalls over the past decade, which speaks to its commitment to quality control. This is a strong indicator of consistent production standards, though it’s worth noting that the brand doesn’t publish third-party lab results or independent audits for additional transparency.
The freeze-dried format gives Nature’s Blend a long shelf life—typically 2 to 3 years when stored properly. The food doesn’t require refrigeration before opening and should be stored in a cool, dry place. Once you’ve rehydrated a portion, it should be used within a few hours. The bags are resealable to maintain freshness.
Nature’s Blend contains pea flour, a legume-based ingredient that’s been flagged in FDA investigations into dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. While there’s no direct evidence linking Nature’s Blend specifically to DCM, it’s something to be aware of if you’re feeding this as your dog’s sole diet long-term. If you have concerns, discuss them with your veterinarian.
The high price reflects several factors: freeze-drying is an expensive process that preserves nutrients without high-heat cooking, the formula uses USDA-inspected whole meats rather than meals or by-products, and there are no fillers or artificial additives. Additionally, it’s a calorie-dense food, so while you feed smaller portions, the per-pound cost is significantly higher than traditional kibble.
While most dogs find Nature’s Blend highly palatable, about 5 to 8% of dogs may refuse it or lose interest after initially liking it. If this happens, try rehydrating the food if you’ve been feeding it dry, or mix it with a small amount of your dog’s previous food. If your dog continues to refuse it, Dr. Marty Pets typically offers refunds or exchanges through their customer service.
Yes, brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Spot & Tango offer fresh, human-grade food at lower price points, especially for medium and large dogs. Other freeze-dried brands like Stella & Chewy’s and Primal offer similar nutritional profiles at $32 to $45 per pound compared to Nature’s Blend’s $37 to $50 per pound. These alternatives often provide better value while still maintaining high ingredient standards.
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