9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
OC Raw Dog Food positions itself as a boutique raw-feeding brand focused on biologically appropriate nutrition. The company was founded roughly a decade ago by a team passionate about whole-food diets for dogs, aiming to provide meals that closely resemble what canines would consume in nature. Their philosophy centers on transparency, minimal processing, and high-quality sourcing—no rendered meals, no synthetic preservatives, and no fillers.
The brand’s core values emphasize species-appropriate feeding, which means prioritizing animal proteins, healthy fats, and functional vegetables over grains or starches. OC Raw markets itself to health-conscious pet owners who are skeptical of kibble and want full control over what goes into their dog’s bowl. The company operates primarily in the United States, with distribution through independent pet retailers, specialty shops, and online channels.
In terms of market positioning, OC Raw sits firmly in the premium segment. It’s not the most expensive raw brand on the market, but it’s far above mainstream kibble in cost per pound. The brand appeals to a niche audience—people who view their dog’s diet as an investment in long-term health rather than a commodity purchase. Reputation-wise, OC Raw is respected within raw-feeding communities, though it lacks the mainstream recognition of brands like Orijen or Blue Buffalo.
| Price per pound | $7.00 – $9.00 |
| Primary protein | Chicken, Beef, Turkey, Rabbit, Fish, Lamb |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulation, not feeding trials) |
| Formula options | Multiple protein varieties (patties, chubs, medallions) |
| Availability | Independent pet retailers, specialty shops, online |
OC Raw’s recipes are built around whole muscle meat and organ meats, typically from chicken, beef, turkey, rabbit, fish, or lamb. The brand does not use meat meals or by-products, which means you’re getting recognizable cuts rather than rendered powders. This approach preserves moisture, natural enzymes, and amino acid profiles, which can support better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Protein content on an as-fed basis hovers around 12–14%, which might sound low until you remember that raw food contains roughly 70% moisture. On a dry-matter basis, you’re looking at 40–50% protein, which is comparable to or higher than many premium kibbles. The variety of proteins allows for rotation feeding, which some owners prefer to reduce the risk of food sensitivities over time.
Fat levels typically range from 8–10% as-fed, translating to roughly 19–25% on a dry-matter basis. OC Raw includes natural fats from the meat itself, plus occasional additions like fish oil or flaxseed to boost omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio isn’t always disclosed on packaging, but the inclusion of fish-based recipes and supplemental oils suggests an effort to keep inflammation-supporting fats in check.
This is where OC Raw diverges sharply from kibble. Carbohydrates are minimal—usually limited to vegetables like carrots, broccoli, kale, or squash. There are no grains, potatoes, or legumes used as bulk fillers. The result is a diet that’s naturally low-carb, which aligns with the brand’s ancestral feeding philosophy. For dogs with grain sensitivities or those prone to weight gain on starchy diets, this can be a meaningful advantage.
OC Raw keeps the supplement list short. You’ll typically find kelp, ground bone for calcium, and occasional probiotics or digestive enzymes. Some recipes include taurine or other amino acids to ensure nutritional completeness, especially in poultry-based formulas. The brand avoids synthetic vitamins where possible, relying instead on whole-food sources and organ meats to supply micronutrients. This approach appeals to purists but may raise questions about consistency across batches—whole foods can vary in nutrient density depending on sourcing.
There aren’t many red flags here. OC Raw doesn’t use artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The biggest controversy surrounding the brand isn’t about what’s in the food, but rather the raw format itself. Raw diets carry a risk of bacterial contamination—listeria, salmonella, and E. coli are real concerns, both for dogs and for the humans handling the food. OC Raw has had limited recalls related to potential bacterial contamination, which is not uncommon in the raw food category. The company does perform batch testing, but raw feeding requires careful handling, storage, and hygiene practices at home.
OC Raw’s recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, though this is achieved through formulation rather than extensive feeding trials. That means the brand has calculated nutrient levels to meet minimum requirements, but hasn’t necessarily tested each recipe in a controlled study over months. This is typical for smaller raw brands and isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if you’re comparing to brands that invest in feeding trials.
On a dry-matter basis, here’s what you’re typically looking at:
Caloric density is high relative to kibble—you’ll feed significantly less by weight, which helps offset the higher price per pound. A 50-pound dog might eat around one to one-and-a-half pounds per day, depending on activity level. The high moisture content also means your dog is getting hydration with every meal, which can be beneficial for kidney health and digestion.
One thing to watch is calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. OC Raw includes ground bone to supply calcium, but the exact ratio isn’t always disclosed on packaging. Ideally, you want a ratio between 1:1 and 2:1 for long-term skeletal health, especially in growing puppies. If you’re feeding OC Raw as a sole diet, it’s worth asking the company for detailed nutritional analyses or consulting with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure balance over time.
OC Raw works particularly well for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The limited ingredient lists and single-protein options make it easier to identify and avoid triggers. If your dog has chronic ear infections, itchy skin, or digestive upset that hasn’t resolved with kibble, a raw diet like OC Raw can sometimes make a noticeable difference—though it’s not a guaranteed fix.
It’s also a strong choice for active adult dogs who need nutrient-dense calories without the bulk of grain-heavy kibble. The high protein and fat content supports muscle maintenance and energy output, and the low-carb profile can help dogs stay lean and energetic. Many raw feeders also report cleaner teeth and smaller, firmer stools, which are practical perks if you’re tired of dealing with dental issues or large, smelly yard cleanups.
For puppies and young dogs, OC Raw can be appropriate, but you’ll want to ensure the recipe you choose is specifically balanced for growth. Puppies have higher calcium and phosphorus needs, and an imbalanced diet during the first year can lead to skeletal problems. The brand does offer formulas labeled for all life stages, but double-checking with your vet or a nutritionist is smart if you’re feeding a large-breed puppy.
OC Raw isn’t ideal for dogs with compromised immune systems—senior dogs undergoing chemotherapy, for example, or dogs on immunosuppressive medications. The risk of bacterial contamination is low but not zero, and a dog with a weakened immune system may not be able to fight off pathogens that a healthy dog would handle easily.
It’s also not a great fit if you’re looking for convenience on the go. Raw food requires freezer storage, thawing time, and careful handling. If you travel frequently or rely on pet sitters who aren’t comfortable with raw feeding, this diet can become a logistical headache. And if you have young children or immunocompromised family members in your home, the risk of cross-contamination from raw meat handling is something to consider carefully.
Finally, if budget is a primary concern, OC Raw is going to be a tough sell. At $7–$9 per pound, feeding a large dog exclusively on raw can run into hundreds of dollars per month. There are more affordable ways to feed a high-quality diet, especially if you’re open to mixing raw with a premium kibble or rotating with other protein sources.
Most dogs take to OC Raw enthusiastically. The food smells like real meat—because it is—and the texture is moist and appealing. Even picky eaters who turn their noses up at kibble often dive into raw meals without hesitation. If you’ve struggled with a dog who grazes or skips meals, switching to raw can sometimes reignite their interest in food.
That said, there can be an adjustment period. Some dogs experience loose stools or mild digestive upset during the first week or two as their gut flora adapts to a new protein source and higher fat content. A slow transition—mixing small amounts of OC Raw with your current food and gradually increasing the ratio over 7–10 days—can help minimize this. Probiotics or digestive enzymes during the switch can also smooth the process.
OC Raw offers a variety of proteins, so if your dog doesn’t take to one recipe, you can try another. Chicken and beef are the most popular, but the brand also makes turkey, lamb, rabbit, and fish-based formulas. Rotating proteins every few months is a common practice among raw feeders, and OC Raw’s range makes that easy.
From a feeding experience standpoint, it’s messier than kibble but not unmanageable. The food comes in patties, chubs, or medallions that you thaw and portion out. Some owners serve it straight from the fridge; others let it come to room temperature. Either way, you’ll want to wash bowls and utensils thoroughly and wipe down surfaces to avoid bacterial spread. It’s not complicated, but it does require a bit more attention than scooping dry food into a bowl.
OC Raw is expensive—there’s no way around it. At $7–$9 per pound, you’re looking at roughly $4–$6 per day for a 50-pound dog, or around $120–$180 per month. For a 70-pound dog, that climbs to $200+ per month. If you’re feeding a giant breed or multiple dogs, the costs can become prohibitive quickly.
That said, you’re paying for whole-food ingredients, minimal processing, and transparency. There are no meat meals, no fillers, and no synthetic additives. The protein and fat content are high, which means you feed less by volume than you would with kibble. And for dogs with chronic health issues—allergies, digestive problems, skin conditions—the potential to reduce vet bills and improve quality of life can offset some of the food cost over time.
Compared to other raw brands like Stella & Chewy’s or Primal, OC Raw is competitively priced, maybe even slightly lower in some markets. Compared to premium kibble like Orijen or Acana, it’s significantly more expensive per pound, though the caloric density narrows the gap a bit. If you’re comparing OC Raw to mid-range kibble like Blue Buffalo or Wellness Core, the price difference is stark—you’ll pay three to four times as much per pound for raw.
For many owners, the value isn’t just in the ingredients—it’s in the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what’s in the bowl and seeing tangible improvements in their dog’s health and energy. If that resonates with you and your budget allows, OC Raw delivers good value within its category. If you’re looking for the absolute best bang for your buck, a high-quality kibble or a mixed feeding approach (half raw, half kibble) might make more sense.
OC Raw produces its food in the United States, which gives it a level of regulatory oversight and traceability that some imported brands lack. The company sources ingredients domestically where possible, though some proteins and supplements may come from international suppliers. Transparency around sourcing isn’t as detailed as brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie, but the brand does provide some information on its website and through customer service.
Manufacturing involves grinding, mixing, and portioning raw ingredients without cooking. This preserves enzymes and nutrients but also means the food isn’t sterilized by heat. OC Raw performs batch testing for pathogens like salmonella and listeria, but no raw food brand can guarantee zero risk of contamination. The company has had a small number of recalls related to potential bacterial presence, which is consistent with the raw food category overall. These recalls have been limited in scope and handled proactively, which is a positive sign.
Quality control measures include batch tracking and third-party lab testing, though the frequency and depth of testing aren’t publicly disclosed. The brand doesn’t hold certifications like HACCP or ISO that some larger pet food manufacturers pursue, but that’s typical for smaller raw brands. What matters more is consistency, and based on user reviews, OC Raw’s products are generally reliable in terms of texture, smell, and appearance from batch to batch.
OC Raw doesn’t make bold claims about sustainability, which is both refreshing and a bit disappointing. The brand focuses primarily on ingredient quality and nutritional philosophy rather than environmental impact. Packaging is mostly plastic, which isn’t ideal, though it’s necessary for frozen storage and food safety. There’s no mention of carbon offsets, renewable energy use, or regenerative farming partnerships.
On the ethics front, OC Raw sources from suppliers within the United States, which generally means higher animal welfare standards than some international sources. However, the brand doesn’t explicitly highlight humane certifications or free-range/grass-fed sourcing. If those factors are a priority for you, you may need to reach out to the company directly for more information.
Overall, OC Raw’s approach to sustainability and ethics is middle-of-the-road. It’s not a standout in this area, but it’s also not raising red flags. If you’re looking for a brand that actively champions environmental responsibility and transparent supply chains, options like Open Farm or The Honest Kitchen might be more aligned with your values.
I work at a dog shelter, and we occasionally test new foods with our residents to see how they respond and whether it’s something we’d recommend to adopters. For this review, we tried OC Raw with a dog named Clancy, a five-year-old mixed breed—looks like he’s got some Lab and maybe some Shepherd or Hound in there. Clancy came to us after his owner passed away, and he’s been with us for about three months. He’s a sweet, easygoing guy with no major health issues, though he’s a bit on the chunky side and could stand to lose a few pounds. He’s not picky, but he’s not especially enthusiastic about food either—he eats what’s in front of him and moves on.
We started Clancy on OC Raw’s beef formula, mixing it with his usual kibble for the first week to avoid any digestive upset. The first thing we noticed was his interest level. Clancy usually approaches his bowl with a kind of “yeah, okay, whatever” attitude, but with the raw food mixed in, he’d walk up, sniff, and actually wag his tail a bit before digging in. Not a dramatic change, but noticeable.
By the second week, we were feeding him straight OC Raw, and his energy seemed a bit more consistent—less of the post-meal slump he’d sometimes have with kibble. His stools were smaller and firmer, which made cleanup easier and suggested he was digesting the food well. We didn’t see any major changes in his coat or skin, but he wasn’t dealing with issues in those areas to begin with. His weight started trending downward slightly, which was a positive since we’d been working on portion control anyway.
The main difference was just that Clancy seemed a bit more engaged with his meals. He wasn’t a different dog, but feeding time went from a chore to something he looked forward to. For a dog in a shelter environment, where routine and comfort matter, that’s worth noting. We didn’t continue with OC Raw long-term simply because of cost—feeding 20+ dogs on raw isn’t in our budget—but for Clancy, it was a smooth experience with no downsides.
User feedback on OC Raw is generally positive, especially among owners who’ve committed to raw feeding. Common themes include improved coat quality, more energy, and better digestion. Many reviewers mention that their dogs’ stools became smaller and less odorous, which is a practical benefit that makes a real difference in daily life. Dogs with chronic ear infections or skin allergies often see improvement, though results vary depending on the underlying cause.
Palatability is a strong point—most dogs eat OC Raw eagerly, even picky eaters who’ve rejected other brands. A few owners report that their dogs needed time to adjust, experiencing loose stools or mild upset during the transition, but these issues usually resolved within a week or two.
On the downside, some users find the cost prohibitive, especially for larger dogs or multi-dog households. Others mention logistical challenges—freezer space, thawing time, and the need for careful handling to avoid contamination. A handful of reviews note inconsistency in texture or appearance from batch to batch, though this doesn’t seem to be a widespread issue.
There are also a few negative experiences related to recalls or bacterial concerns. While OC Raw’s recall history is limited, any recall in the raw food category tends to make owners nervous. Some reviewers express frustration with the lack of detailed nutritional information on packaging, wishing for more transparency around calcium-phosphorus ratios or specific vitamin levels.
Overall, the majority of long-term users are satisfied and report that their dogs are thriving on OC Raw. The brand has a loyal following, particularly among owners who prioritize ingredient quality and are willing to invest time and money into their dog’s diet.
OC Raw occupies a niche within the premium dog food market, and it’s helpful to see how it stacks up against both raw competitors and high-quality kibble alternatives.
Compared to Stella & Chewy’s, OC Raw is slightly less expensive per pound and offers a similar ingredient philosophy—whole proteins, minimal processing, no fillers. Stella & Chewy’s has a stronger retail presence and more variety in formats (freeze-dried, raw frozen, kibble), which gives it an edge in convenience. However, some users find Stella & Chewy’s formulas to be higher in fat, which can be a pro or a con depending on your dog’s needs.
Primal Pet Foods is another close competitor. Primal offers a wider range of proteins, including more exotic options like venison and goat, and has a reputation for rigorous testing and quality control. OC Raw is generally a bit more affordable, but Primal’s transparency and detailed nutritional information give it an advantage for owners who want to dig into the specifics.
If you’re comparing OC Raw to Orijen or Acana, you’re looking at fundamentally different formats. Orijen and Acana are high-protein kibbles with impressive ingredient lists, and they’re significantly cheaper per pound than raw food. They also offer convenience—no freezer needed, no thawing, no handling concerns. However, kibble is heavily processed compared to raw, and some dogs simply do better on a fresh, whole-food diet. If you’re drawn to the idea of raw but worried about cost, mixing OC Raw with a premium kibble like Orijen can give you some of the benefits without the full price tag.
For owners considering fresh, cooked options like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie, the key difference is the cooking process. Those brands gently cook their meals, which reduces bacterial risk and may be more palatable for some dogs. They also offer similar convenience in terms of pre-portioned packs and home delivery. However, raw proponents argue that cooking destroys enzymes and some nutrients, making raw the superior choice. It’s a debate without a clear winner—both approaches have merit, and the best choice depends on your dog’s needs and your comfort level with handling raw meat.
Not sure whether OC Raw or a performance-focused kibble is the better fit for an active dog? Check out our Kinetic Dog Food review to see how a high-energy formula designed for working and sporting dogs compares in terms of protein, fat, and real-world results.
OC Raw is best suited for adult dogs with food sensitivities, active lifestyles, or owners who prioritize whole-food nutrition. If your dog has struggled with allergies, chronic ear infections, or digestive issues on kibble, OC Raw’s limited-ingredient, single-protein recipes can help you isolate triggers and provide relief. The high protein and fat content also make it a strong choice for active or working dogs who need dense calories without the bulk of grain-heavy diets.
For puppies, OC Raw can work, but you’ll need to ensure the formula you choose is balanced for growth. Large-breed puppies, in particular, have specific calcium and phosphorus requirements, and feeding an imbalanced diet during the first year can lead to skeletal problems. If you’re feeding a puppy on OC Raw, it’s worth consulting with a veterinary nutritionist to confirm you’re meeting all developmental needs.
Senior dogs can also do well on OC Raw, especially if they’re dealing with joint issues, weight management, or declining appetite. The high moisture content supports kidney function, and the nutrient density means you can feed smaller portions while still meeting caloric needs. However, if your senior dog has a compromised immune system or is on medications that affect digestion, talk to your vet before switching to raw.
OC Raw is not ideal for dogs with weakened immune systems, households with young children or immunocompromised family members (due to bacterial contamination risk), or owners who need a highly convenient, travel-friendly food. It’s also not the best choice if budget is a primary concern—there are more affordable ways to feed a high-quality diet.
As a dog food specialist, I think OC Raw is a solid choice within the raw feeding category, but it’s not for everyone. The ingredient quality is strong—you’re getting whole proteins, organs, and minimal processing, which aligns with the brand’s ancestral diet philosophy. The nutritional profile is appropriate for most adult dogs, and the low-carb, high-protein approach can deliver real benefits for dogs with sensitivities or those who thrive on a meat-based diet.
That said, the cost is a significant barrier. At $7–$9 per pound, feeding a medium or large dog exclusively on OC Raw can easily run $150–$250+ per month. For that price, you’re getting quality, but you’re also taking on the logistical challenges of freezer storage, thawing, and careful handling. If those factors don’t bother you and your budget allows, OC Raw delivers on its promises.
Where I’d hesitate is in recommending it universally. If you’re new to raw feeding, OC Raw is a reasonable entry point, but you’ll need to educate yourself on safe handling and ensure you’re meeting all nutritional requirements over time. If you’re already committed to raw and looking for a reliable, transparent brand, OC Raw is worth trying. But if you’re weighing it against cooked fresh options like The Farmer’s Dog or premium kibbles like Orijen, I’d say it’s a lateral move rather than a clear upgrade—different, but not necessarily better.
Would I buy this for my own dog? If I had a dog with chronic allergies or digestive issues that hadn’t responded to other diets, yes—I’d give OC Raw a shot. If I had a healthy dog doing well on a high-quality kibble, I’d probably stick with what’s working and save the money. The brand is good at what it does, but it’s a niche product that shines in specific situations rather than being the best choice for every dog.
OC Raw performs batch testing for pathogens like salmonella and listeria, but like all raw foods, it carries some risk of bacterial contamination. The food is safe when handled properly—store it frozen, thaw only what you need, wash bowls and utensils thoroughly, and maintain good hygiene practices. However, it’s not recommended for dogs with compromised immune systems or households with young children or immunocompromised family members due to cross-contamination risks.
OC Raw runs $7–$9 per pound, which translates to roughly $120–$250+ per month for a medium to large dog. This is three to four times more expensive than mid-range kibble like Blue Buffalo, though the higher caloric density means you feed less by volume. For comparison, a 50-pound dog might eat 1–1.5 pounds of OC Raw per day versus 3–4 cups of kibble.
Yes, but choose a formula labeled for all life stages and ensure it’s properly balanced for growth. Puppies, especially large breeds, have specific calcium and phosphorus requirements that are critical for skeletal development. It’s worth consulting with a veterinary nutritionist if you’re feeding a puppy exclusively on raw to confirm you’re meeting all developmental needs.
Start by mixing small amounts of OC Raw with your current food, gradually increasing the ratio over 7–10 days. Some dogs experience loose stools or mild digestive upset during the transition as their gut flora adapts. Adding probiotics or digestive enzymes during the switch can help smooth the process. Most dogs adjust within a week or two.
Yes, OC Raw must be kept frozen until use and thawed in the refrigerator—never at room temperature. Once thawed, use within 2–3 days. You’ll need adequate freezer space, and feeding requires more preparation than kibble. Always wash bowls, utensils, and surfaces that come into contact with raw food to prevent bacterial spread.
OC Raw formulas are designed to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages through formulation rather than feeding trials. The brand includes ground bone for calcium and organs for micronutrients, but exact calcium-to-phosphorus ratios aren’t always disclosed on packaging. If you’re feeding it as a sole diet long-term, consider asking the company for detailed nutritional analyses.
OC Raw offers chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, rabbit, and fish-based formulas. The variety allows for rotation feeding, which some owners prefer to reduce the risk of developing food sensitivities over time. All recipes use whole muscle meat and organs rather than meat meals or by-products.
OC Raw is slightly less expensive than most competitors and offers a similar whole-food philosophy. Stella & Chewy’s has wider retail availability and more format options, while Primal offers more exotic proteins and detailed nutritional transparency. OC Raw sits in the middle in terms of price and variety within the raw category.
Most dogs, including picky eaters, respond enthusiastically to OC Raw because it smells and tastes like real meat. Even dogs who graze or skip kibble meals often dive into raw food eagerly. If your dog doesn’t take to one protein, you can try another—the brand offers several single-protein options to find what works best.
Yes, many owners use a mixed feeding approach to get some benefits of raw while managing costs and convenience. You can rotate between raw and kibble meals or mix them in the same bowl. This approach can help you provide variety and higher-quality nutrition without the full expense of feeding exclusively raw.
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