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
• Exceptional transparency and safety standards with third-party lab testing results posted online and complete ingredient traceability to source farms.
• Ultra-premium nutritional profile delivers 62% protein and less than 2% carbohydrates using only whole foods without synthetic vitamins.
• Outstanding palatability for picky eaters with consistent reports of dogs enthusiastically eating who previously refused other brands.
• Significant cost investment required at $6-$15 daily feeding costs, making it primarily suitable for owners prioritizing premium quality.
• Perfect track record with zero recalls since founding, combined with human-grade USDA facility production and family-owned quality control.
Raised Right was born from the 2007 melamine pet food recall—a crisis that shook the trust of countless dog owners. Mary Ann Ruud started home-cooking for her own pets, and nearly a decade later, she and her son Braeden formally launched Raised Right with a mission to make the safest pet food possible. The company operates from Rye, New York, and remains privately owned by the Ruud family, which means decisions prioritize quality over quarterly earnings.
The brand’s core values revolve around human-grade ingredients, complete traceability, and transparency. Every batch is tested by third-party labs for pathogens like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, and those results are posted online for anyone to see. You can even trace each ingredient back to its source farm or ranch via maps and videos on their website. That level of openness is rare in the pet food industry.
Raised Right positions itself in the ultra-premium segment, targeting health-conscious owners who want to know exactly what’s going into their dog’s bowl. The brand doesn’t chase mass-market distribution—you won’t find it at big-box stores. Instead, it’s sold direct-to-consumer and through select specialty retailers, which helps maintain quality control and keeps the focus on ingredient integrity rather than shelf life or cost-cutting.
In terms of reputation, Raised Right has earned recognition from independent watchdogs like Truth About Pet Food and Check Your Pet Food. It’s also formulated in collaboration with Dr. Karen Becker, a well-known integrative veterinarian, and pet nutrition expert Steve Brown. There have been no recalls since the brand’s founding, which speaks volumes about their production standards and commitment to safety.
Raised Right’s recipes are built around single-source animal proteins—turkey, beef, pork, or chicken. These aren’t mystery meats or by-products; they’re named cuts like turkey thigh, beef heart, and chicken liver, all sourced from U.S. farms and ranches that meet human food standards. Each recipe sticks to one protein, which makes it easier to identify and manage food sensitivities.
The protein content is impressive. On a dry matter basis, you’re looking at around 62% protein in the frozen recipes, which is significantly higher than most kibbles. That high protein level supports muscle maintenance, energy, and overall vitality, especially for active or working dogs.
This is where Raised Right really stands out. The brand uses minimal carbohydrates—typically less than 2% in the frozen line. Instead of grains, potatoes, or peas, you’ll find small amounts of nutrient-dense vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, and blueberries. These provide fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins without spiking blood sugar or adding empty calories.
For dogs with grain sensitivities or those prone to weight gain, this low-carb approach is a real advantage. It also aligns with a more ancestral diet, which many veterinarians and nutritionists argue is closer to what dogs evolved to eat.
Fat content sits around 25-26% on a dry matter basis, sourced naturally from the meats and added oils. You’ll see ingredients like fish oil or flaxseed oil in some recipes, which contribute omega-3 fatty acids for skin, coat, and joint health. The fat levels are well-balanced—high enough to support energy and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, but not so high that it risks pancreatitis in susceptible dogs.
Here’s what you won’t find: synthetic vitamins, minerals, preservatives, or fillers. Raised Right meets AAFCO nutritional standards using only whole foods, which is unusual and technically challenging. The recipes rely on organ meats, vegetables, and careful formulation to provide complete nutrition without adding synthetic premixes.
This approach appeals to owners who want to avoid artificial additives, but it also means the food must be handled carefully—frozen for freshness or air-dried in the new shelf-stable line. There are no chemical preservatives to extend shelf life once the package is opened.
Raised Right avoids the usual suspects: no corn, wheat, soy, by-products, or artificial colors. There’s also no pea protein or lentils, which have been scrutinized in discussions around grain-free diets and potential links to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The limited ingredient lists make it easy to see exactly what your dog is eating, and there’s nothing hidden or hard to pronounce.
| Price per pound | $11-$13 (frozen), $25-$28 (air-dried) |
| Primary protein | Turkey, Beef, Pork, Chicken |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (adult maintenance & growth) |
| Formula options | Frozen, air-dried, paté varieties + support recipes |
| Availability | Direct-to-consumer + select specialty retailers |
Let’s talk numbers. Raised Right’s frozen turkey recipe, for example, delivers approximately 62% protein, 25.6% fat, and less than 2% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis. That’s a high-protein, moderate-fat, ultra-low-carb profile that many nutritionists consider ideal for dogs, especially those with high energy needs or metabolic sensitivities.
The caloric density of the frozen food is around 1,560 kcal per kilogram, which is moderate compared to dry kibble but nutrient-dense given the moisture content. The new air-dried line is more concentrated, clocking in at roughly 4,200 kcal per kilogram, since the water has been removed.
All recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO standards for adult maintenance or growth, depending on the line. The puppy formulas are designed for growth and reproduction, while the adult recipes cover maintenance. There are also specialized support recipes for kidney and pancreatic issues, though these are not complete diets and should be used under veterinary guidance.
One thing that stands out is the absence of synthetic nutrient fortification. Instead of adding isolated vitamins and minerals, Raised Right relies on the natural nutrient content of whole foods. This means you’re getting nutrients in forms that are often more bioavailable—think vitamin A from liver rather than retinyl acetate. However, it also requires precise formulation to ensure all nutritional bases are covered, which the brand achieves through veterinary oversight and batch testing.
The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is generally favorable, thanks to the inclusion of fish oil or flaxseed oil in some recipes. This supports anti-inflammatory processes, which can be beneficial for dogs with joint issues, skin conditions, or chronic allergies.
Raised Right shines for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The single-protein, limited-ingredient approach makes it easy to identify triggers and eliminate potential allergens. If your dog has been struggling with itching, ear infections, or digestive upset, this food can really make a difference.
It’s also an excellent choice for picky eaters. The food smells like real meat—because it is—and many owners report that even the fussiest dogs dive in without hesitation. The gentle cooking process preserves flavor and aroma, which helps with palatability.
Active and working dogs benefit from the high protein and fat content, which supports sustained energy and muscle recovery. If you have a dog that hikes, runs, or works, this food provides the fuel they need without the carb load that can lead to crashes or weight gain.
For senior dogs, the low-carb, high-protein profile helps maintain lean muscle mass, which is often lost as dogs age. The natural nutrients and easily digestible format also support aging digestive systems and can help manage weight.
If your dog has specific medical conditions like kidney disease or pancreatitis, you’ll want to consult your vet before switching to Raised Right. The high protein and fat levels may not be appropriate for all health issues, even though the brand does offer specialized support recipes.
For owners on a tight budget, Raised Right may be a stretch. The cost per pound is significantly higher than conventional kibble, and for large or giant breeds, the daily feeding cost can add up quickly. If price is a major concern, you might need to consider a mixed feeding approach or look at more affordable alternatives.
Finally, if you don’t have adequate freezer space, the frozen line may not be practical. The air-dried option addresses this, but it comes with an even higher price tag.
Palatability is one of Raised Right’s strongest selling points. The food looks, smells, and feels like real meat, which dogs tend to find irresistible. Over 60% of user reviews specifically mention that their dog “loves” the food, and many highlight success with picky eaters who previously refused other brands.
The brand offers four main protein options—turkey, beef, pork, and chicken—across the frozen and air-dried lines, plus paté varieties that include pumpkin for added moisture and palatability. There’s no exotic game or novel proteins, but the quality of the ingredients and the simplicity of the recipes seem to do the trick.
Some dogs may need a transition period, especially if they’re coming from a kibble-heavy diet. The richness of the food can cause loose stools initially, so it’s smart to introduce it gradually over 7-10 days. Once adjusted, most dogs show strong enthusiasm at mealtimes and clean their bowls consistently.
Interestingly, the air-dried line has been well-received not just as a meal but also as a high-value training treat. You can break it into small pieces, and dogs respond to it with the same excitement they’d show for jerky or freeze-dried liver.
Let’s be honest—Raised Right is expensive. The frozen line runs around $11-$13 per pound, and the air-dried option can hit $25-$28 per pound. For a 30-pound dog, you’re looking at roughly $6-$8 per day for frozen food, which translates to $180-$240 per month. For a 60-pound dog, that jumps to $12-$15 daily, or $360-$450 monthly.
That said, the price reflects human-grade sourcing, rigorous safety testing, and whole-food formulation. You’re paying for ingredients you could eat yourself, produced in USDA-inspected facilities, and tested for pathogens before shipping. There are no fillers, no by-products, and no synthetic additives. When you compare it to other fresh food brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Nom Nom, Raised Right is competitively priced, and in some cases, slightly more affordable on a per-calorie basis.
If you’re coming from a mid-tier kibble like Blue Buffalo or Wellness, the jump in cost is significant. But if you’re already feeding a premium kibble or have been home-cooking, the convenience and safety of Raised Right may justify the expense. Many owners also find that their dogs eat less volume of this food compared to kibble, which can offset some of the cost.
For budget-conscious owners, a mixed feeding approach can work well—using Raised Right as a topper or rotating it with a high-quality kibble. The brand also offers subscription discounts of up to 10%, which helps a bit.
Not sure whether to choose Raised Right or Lotus? Read our other Lotus dog food review to see how the two brands compare in terms of ingredients, processing, and value.
Raised Right’s production process is one of its biggest strengths. All food is made in USDA-inspected, human-grade facilities in the United States. The gentle cooking method uses low temperatures to preserve nutrients and digestibility, then the food is either frozen or air-dried depending on the product line.
Every batch undergoes third-party lab testing for E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella before it’s released for shipping. The results are posted online, batch by batch, which is a level of transparency that’s almost unheard of in the pet food industry. You can literally look up the test results for the specific food you’re feeding your dog.
The brand also provides ingredient traceability. Each batch includes a map showing where every ingredient was sourced, along with videos of the farms and ranches. This kind of openness builds trust and allows owners to make informed decisions.
There have been no recalls since Raised Right launched, which is a testament to their quality control and safety protocols. In an industry where recalls are unfortunately common, that track record is worth noting.
Raised Right doesn’t publish a formal sustainability report or third-party environmental audit, which is typical for smaller, privately held companies. However, the brand’s emphasis on local sourcing and human-grade standards does have some sustainability benefits. Ingredients are sourced from U.S. farms and ranches, which reduces transportation emissions compared to imported meats.
The packaging is recyclable, though the frozen format does require insulated shipping materials, which can add to waste. The air-dried line addresses this to some extent, as it doesn’t need refrigeration or dry ice for shipping.
There’s no evidence of animal testing for product development, and the brand’s focus on transparency and ethical sourcing suggests a commitment to responsible practices. That said, if sustainability is a top priority for you, it’s worth reaching out to the company directly to ask about specific initiatives or goals.
At the shelter where I work, we tested Raised Right with a dog named Benny, a four-year-old beagle mix who’d been with us for about six months. Benny didn’t have any major health issues, but he’d always been a bit indifferent about food—he’d eat when he was hungry, but rarely with much enthusiasm. His coat was decent, and his energy was fine, but he wasn’t the kind of dog who got excited at mealtime.
We transitioned Benny to the frozen turkey recipe over about a week, mixing it gradually with his usual kibble. The first thing we noticed was his reaction when we opened the package—he actually came over to investigate, which wasn’t typical for him. By the third day, he was finishing his meals quickly and licking the bowl clean, which was a first.
After about two weeks, his coat looked noticeably shinier, and his stools were firmer and smaller, which made cleanup easier. His energy level stayed about the same—he wasn’t a high-energy dog to begin with—but he seemed a bit more alert and engaged during playtime. Nothing dramatic, but enough that staff commented on it.
The only downside was that Benny seemed to expect the same level of quality from his treats, which made him less interested in the basic biscuits we usually handed out. We ended up using small pieces of the air-dried Raised Right as training rewards, which worked beautifully.
Overall, Benny did well on the food. It didn’t transform him into a different dog, but it did make mealtime more enjoyable for him and seemed to support his overall condition. For a dog without major sensitivities or health issues, it was a solid, reliable choice.
Raised Right enjoys overwhelmingly positive feedback from real dog owners. On the brand’s official website and independent forums, the average rating hovers around 5 stars, with hundreds of reviews praising the food’s palatability, ingredient transparency, and noticeable health benefits.
The most common themes in positive reviews are “my dog loves it” and “shinier coat.” Many owners specifically mention success with picky eaters—dogs who previously refused other brands or needed constant coaxing to eat. After switching to Raised Right, these dogs reportedly dive into their bowls and finish every meal.
Digestive improvements are another frequent highlight. Owners of dogs with chronic diarrhea, IBD, or sensitive stomachs report that symptoms resolved within a few weeks of switching. Stools became firmer, smaller, and less frequent, which is a sign of better nutrient absorption and digestibility.
Skin and coat benefits are also widely noted. Dogs with allergies, itching, or dull coats showed improvement within 2-4 weeks, with many owners describing their dog’s coat as “soft” or “glossy” for the first time in years.
On the downside, about 6-7% of reviews mention palatability issues—dogs who initially loved the food but later refused it, or dogs who wouldn’t eat it at all. There’s no clear pattern in terms of protein source or flavor, so it seems to be individual preference.
Around 3% of users report digestive upset, usually in the form of loose stools or vomiting. In most cases, this occurred during the transition period or when the food was introduced too quickly. A handful of owners also noted that their dog gained weight, which may be due to the calorie density or portion sizes.
Price is the most common complaint, with about 16% of reviewers mentioning that the food is too expensive for long-term use, especially for large breeds. Some owners mix it with kibble or rotate it with other brands to manage costs.
Customer service receives high marks. Nearly every negative review includes a note that the company responded quickly, offered a refund or replacement, and handled the issue professionally. The 14-day money-back guarantee gives owners peace of mind to try the food without financial risk.
Raised Right sits in the ultra-premium fresh food segment, competing with brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Nom Nom, Ollie, and JustFoodForDogs. It also overlaps with specialty brands like Lotus, which focuses on oven-baked and limited-ingredient formulas.
Compared to The Farmer’s Dog, Raised Right offers similar ingredient quality and transparency but with a stronger emphasis on single-protein, limited-ingredient recipes. Both brands are priced similarly, but Raised Right’s batch-by-batch lab testing and traceability maps give it an edge in transparency. If you’re looking for a modern, personalized fresh food experience with excellent customer support, check out our full The Farmer’s Dog review.
Against Nom Nom, Raised Right holds up well in terms of ingredient integrity and safety, though Nom Nom offers slightly more recipe variety and a more polished subscription experience. Pricing is comparable, with both brands landing in the $10-$13 per pound range for frozen food.
Ollie is another close competitor, with a similar focus on personalization and fresh ingredients. Ollie’s recipes tend to include slightly more carbohydrates (sweet potato, rice), while Raised Right keeps carbs to an absolute minimum. If carb content is a concern, Raised Right has the advantage.
When compared to Lotus, the two brands take different approaches. Lotus uses oven-baking and offers both grain-free and grain-inclusive options, while Raised Right is entirely grain-free and relies on gentle cooking or air-drying. Lotus is slightly more affordable per pound for dry food, but Raised Right’s human-grade standards and safety testing set it apart. Both are family-owned and emphasize transparency, but Raised Right’s traceability and lab results give it a clearer edge in accountability.
In the broader premium market, Raised Right is more expensive than kibble brands like Blue Buffalo, Wellness, or even high-end options like Orijen. However, the ingredient quality, digestibility, and safety protocols justify the price for owners who prioritize those factors. If you’re comparing fresh food to kibble, it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison—you’re paying for a fundamentally different product.
Raised Right is particularly well-suited for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The single-protein, limited-ingredient recipes make it easy to isolate and eliminate potential triggers, and the absence of grains, fillers, and synthetic additives reduces the risk of reactions.
For picky eaters, this food is often a game-changer. If you’ve been struggling to get your dog to eat consistently, the palatability and aroma of Raised Right can make a real difference. Many owners report that their dogs who previously turned their noses up at every meal now eat eagerly.
Active and working dogs thrive on the high protein and fat content, which supports energy, endurance, and muscle recovery. If your dog hikes, runs agility courses, or works on a farm, this food provides the fuel they need without unnecessary carbs.
Senior dogs benefit from the easy digestibility and nutrient density. The low-carb, high-protein profile helps maintain lean muscle mass and supports aging joints, while the natural vitamins and minerals from whole foods are easier for older digestive systems to process.
Puppies can also do well on Raised Right, especially the puppy-specific formulas designed for growth. The high-quality protein and balanced fat support healthy development, and the limited ingredients reduce the risk of early sensitivities.
That said, this food may not be ideal for dogs with certain medical conditions like advanced kidney disease or pancreatitis, where protein and fat levels need to be carefully controlled. Always consult your vet before making a switch if your dog has a diagnosed health issue.
It’s also not the best choice for owners on a tight budget or those with multiple large dogs, as the cost can become prohibitive. If price is a barrier, consider using Raised Right as a topper or rotating it with a more affordable base food.
Yes, Raised Right is an excellent dog food, and I’d confidently recommend it to owners who prioritize ingredient quality, safety, and transparency. The human-grade sourcing, whole-food formulation, and rigorous batch testing set it apart from the vast majority of brands on the market. There are no recalls, no synthetic additives, and no mystery ingredients—just real meat, vegetables, and a commitment to doing things right.
The high protein, low carb profile is well-suited for most dogs, especially those with sensitivities, picky appetites, or high activity levels. The palatability is consistently praised, and the health benefits—shinier coats, firmer stools, better energy—are backed by hundreds of positive user experiences.
That said, the price is a real consideration. This is not a budget food, and for large breeds or multi-dog households, the cost can add up quickly. If you can afford it, I think it’s worth every penny. If not, using it as a topper or mixing it with a high-quality kibble can still provide benefits without breaking the bank.
Would I buy this for my own dog? Absolutely, especially if I were dealing with allergies, digestive issues, or a picky eater. Would I recommend it to a friend? Yes, with the caveat that they need to be prepared for the price and the need for freezer space.
Honestly, there are very few brands I trust as much as Raised Right when it comes to ingredient integrity and safety. If you want to know exactly what you’re feeding your dog and you value transparency over convenience or cost savings, this is one of the best options available in 2025.
The monthly cost varies significantly based on your dog’s size. For a 30-pound dog, expect to spend around $180-$240 per month on the frozen line, while a 60-pound dog will cost approximately $360-$450 monthly. The air-dried option is even more expensive at $25-$28 per pound. Many owners find that dogs eat less volume compared to kibble, which can help offset some of the cost.
The frozen line does require adequate freezer space for storage. However, Raised Right also offers an air-dried line that’s shelf-stable and doesn’t need refrigeration. The air-dried option is more expensive but solves the storage issue for owners with limited freezer capacity.
No, Raised Right has had zero recalls since the brand launched. This clean safety record is backed by rigorous third-party lab testing for pathogens like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella on every batch before shipping. The test results are even posted online for transparency.
Yes, Raised Right offers puppy-specific formulas designed for growth and reproduction that meet AAFCO standards. The high-quality protein and balanced fat content support healthy development, while the limited ingredients reduce the risk of early food sensitivities.
Raised Right offers a 14-day money-back guarantee if your dog won’t eat the food. While over 60% of reviews mention dogs loving the taste, about 6-7% report palatability issues. The company’s customer service is highly rated and handles refunds professionally.
Absolutely. Raised Right’s single-protein, limited-ingredient recipes make it excellent for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. There are no grains, fillers, synthetic additives, or common allergens, and you can easily identify and eliminate potential triggers with the transparent ingredient lists.
Transition gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts of Raised Right with your current food. Start with 25% Raised Right and 75% old food, then adjust the ratio every few days. The richness of the food can cause loose stools if introduced too quickly, especially for dogs coming from kibble.
Raised Right is sold direct-to-consumer through their website and through select specialty pet retailers. You won’t find it in big-box stores, as the brand focuses on maintaining quality control through limited distribution channels. They offer subscription discounts of up to 10%.
No, Raised Right meets AAFCO nutritional standards using only whole foods without synthetic vitamins, minerals, or preservatives. The recipes rely on organ meats, vegetables, and careful formulation to provide complete nutrition naturally, which is technically challenging but results in more bioavailable nutrients.
Yes, many budget-conscious owners successfully use Raised Right as a topper or mix it with high-quality kibble. This approach provides some of the benefits of the premium food while managing costs. The air-dried version also works well broken into pieces as high-value training treats.
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