Red Barn dog food review - Dogwooff

Red Barn dog food review

9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out which food is best for your dog!

Dog food from Red Barn
Picture of Marley Reeves

Marley Reeves

Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover

Main Points of the Review

Premium ingredient quality with transparency: Redbarn uses named animal proteins, avoids by-products and fillers, and maintains complete traceability from supplier to finished product with third-party testing on every batch.

Unique format variety addresses different needs: Unlike most brands, Redbarn offers kibble, air-dried, semi-moist rolled, and wet options, providing feeding flexibility for picky eaters, seniors, and active dogs.

Excellent palatability and health improvements: 88% acceptance rate among dogs switching brands, with owners frequently reporting shinier coats, better digestion, and reduced skin issues within 2-6 weeks.

Significant cost barrier for many households: At $2.87 per pound for kibble and $17-18 for air-dried, feeding costs can reach $3-9 daily for larger dogs, limiting accessibility despite quality benefits.

Strong middle-tier positioning in premium market: More expensive than Blue Buffalo or Purina Pro Plan but less costly than Orijen, offering better ingredient quality than mainstream brands without ultra-premium protein levels.

9 out of 10 dogs get the wrong dog food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

Pros

Cons

Ingredient quality

Nutritional value

Value for money

Digestibility

Reliability

4.6/5
4.2/5
3.1/5
4.4/5
4.5/5
My Final Grade
0 /5

Inhoudsopgave

Redbarn isn’t trying to be the cheapest option on the shelf, and that’s clear from the moment you look at the ingredient panel. This is a brand that positions itself squarely in the premium natural segment, appealing to dog owners who want ingredient transparency, high animal protein content, and formulas free from by-products, artificial preservatives, and fillers. Founded in 1996 by childhood friends Jeff Baikie and Howard Bloxam, Redbarn started with a rolled dog food made in a kitchen and has since grown into a family-owned company with over 200 products, multiple production facilities, and distribution across thousands of North American retailers.

What Does the Brand Stand For?

Redbarn’s mission centers on a belief that pets are family, and that philosophy drives everything from ingredient sourcing to customer service. The company remains privately owned, with both founders still actively involved in operations—a rarity in an industry increasingly dominated by conglomerates. This independence allows Redbarn to prioritize quality and safety over quarterly earnings, and it shows in their manufacturing practices.

About 80% of Redbarn’s products are made in their Kansas facility, with the remainder—primarily bully sticks and select chews—processed in Paraguay under third-party food safety certification. All raw materials are tracked internally, and every batch undergoes third-party testing for pathogens and nutritional content. The Kansas plant also treats and recycles its own water before returning it to the local aquifer, a sustainability measure that’s uncommon for pet food manufacturers in the region.

Redbarn’s reputation is solid. There have been no major recalls in the past decade, and the brand consistently earns high marks on review platforms like Chewy and DogFoodAdvisor, where formulas often score 4.5 stars or higher. The company’s focus on ingredient transparency and traceability has helped it build trust with specialty retailers and discerning pet owners, even as it competes with larger, better-funded brands.

Ingredient Analysis of the Dog Food

Primary Proteins

Redbarn’s recipes lead with named animal proteins—beef, chicken, lamb, turkey, salmon, whitefish, and pork—depending on the formula. Air-dried products boast up to 96% animal protein content, while dry kibbles typically list five animal proteins in the first five ingredients. You won’t find vague terms like “poultry meal” or “meat by-products” here; Redbarn uses specific sources like chicken meal, beef meal, and ocean fish meal, which are concentrated protein sources with moisture removed.

The rolled semi-moist formulas contain over 40% fresh meat, and the canned stews feature whole cuts of muscle meat along with organ meat for added nutrition. This level of specificity and quality sets Redbarn apart from mainstream brands that rely heavily on rendered meals from unspecified sources.

Carbohydrate Sources

Redbarn offers both grain-inclusive and grain-free options. The whole grain lines use oat groats, barley, and brown rice—whole grains with a lower glycemic index and more fiber than corn or wheat. Grain-free formulas replace grains with peas, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. While grain-free diets have been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some dogs, Redbarn adds taurine and fiber to help mitigate risk, and the brand has not been named in any DCM-related investigations.

The carbohydrate content in kibble formulas is estimated at around 42% on a dry matter basis, which is moderate for premium kibble. Air-dried and rolled formulas are much lower in carbs—around 18% and 5%, respectively—making them better suited for dogs who thrive on high-protein, low-carb diets.

Fats and Oils

Fat sources include chicken fat, salmon oil, and flaxseed, all of which provide essential fatty acids for skin, coat, and brain health. Omega-3 and omega-6 ratios are generally well-balanced, and the inclusion of fish oil in several formulas supports anti-inflammatory benefits and joint health.

Price per pound $2.71 – $18.00 (kibble $2.71-$2.87, air-dried $17-$18)
Primary protein Beef, Chicken, Lamb, Turkey, Salmon, Whitefish, Pork
By-products None
AAFCO compliance Yes
Formula options 4 product lines (Air-dried, Dry kibble, Semi-moist rolled, Canned stews)
Availability Thousands of North American retailers + online

9 in 10 dogs eat the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

In just 60 seconds, find out which food fits your dog best — for free.

Functional Ingredients and Supplements

Redbarn goes beyond basic nutrition by adding functional ingredients like postbiotics, prebiotics, glucosamine, and chondroitin. The Gut Health Air-Dried formula, for example, includes postbiotics to support digestive balance, while large breed formulas are fortified with joint-supporting compounds. You’ll also find antioxidants from blueberries, cranberries, and spinach, as well as DHA from salmon oil in puppy formulas to support brain development.

What’s Not in the Food

Redbarn avoids artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. There are no corn, wheat, or soy fillers, and no meat by-products. The brand also steers clear of ethoxyquin, BHA, and BHT—controversial preservatives still used by some budget brands. Instead, Redbarn relies on natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) to maintain freshness.

Nutritional Value and Composition

Redbarn’s nutritional profiles vary by format, but all meet AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Here’s a breakdown by product line:

Air-Dried Powerfood

With 35–43% protein and 26–28% fat on a dry matter basis, air-dried formulas are among the most nutrient-dense options Redbarn offers. Caloric density ranges from 4,000 to 4,400 kcal/kg, making them suitable for active dogs, working breeds, and dogs who need to maintain or gain weight. The low moisture content (around 10%) means you’re paying for concentrated nutrition, not water.

Dry Kibble

Whole grain and grain-free kibbles provide 24–30% protein and 14–16% fat, with a caloric density of 3,600–3,800 kcal/kg. These macros are competitive with other premium brands like Blue Buffalo and Purina Pro Plan, though they fall short of ultra-high-protein options like Orijen or Acana. Fiber content is moderate at 4–5%, which supports healthy digestion without causing excessive stool volume.

Semi-Moist Rolled

Rolled formulas are unique in the Redbarn lineup. With 9–13% protein and 6–8% fat on an as-fed basis, they’re lower in macronutrients than kibble, but that’s because they contain about 70% moisture. On a dry matter basis, protein levels are comparable to kibble. The soft texture makes them ideal for senior dogs, dogs with dental issues, or as a topper to increase palatability.

Canned Stews

Canned formulas offer 8–10% protein and 6–8% fat as-fed, with around 78% moisture. They’re not as calorie-dense as air-dried or kibble, but they provide hydration and are highly palatable. Many owners use them as mixers or for dogs who need extra moisture in their diet.

Micronutrients and Balance

All formulas include essential vitamins and minerals, with added calcium and phosphorus for bone health, B vitamins for energy metabolism, and vitamin E for immune support. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is appropriate for all life stages, and large breed formulas are calibrated to support slower, healthier growth in puppies.

For Which Dogs Is It or Isn’t It Suitable?

Best For

Redbarn is a strong choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities. The brand’s focus on named proteins, absence of fillers, and inclusion of digestive support ingredients like postbiotics make it easier on the gut than many mainstream kibbles. Owners of dogs with skin issues, dull coats, or chronic ear infections often report improvements after switching to Redbarn, likely due to the high-quality fats and absence of common allergens.

Picky eaters tend to do well with Redbarn, especially with the rolled and air-dried formats. The strong aroma and real-meat texture are more appealing than standard kibble, and the variety of flavors—chicken, beef, lamb, fish, pork—gives you flexibility to find what your dog prefers.

Redbarn also works well for active dogs and working breeds who need higher protein and fat to support their energy demands. The air-dried formulas, in particular, pack a lot of nutrition into a small volume, making them convenient for travel or training.

For puppies and large breed puppies, Redbarn offers formulas with DHA for brain development and controlled calcium levels to support healthy bone growth. Senior dogs benefit from the joint-supporting ingredients and softer rolled formats that are easier to chew.

Not Recommended For

If you’re feeding multiple large dogs or have a tight budget, Redbarn’s premium pricing can be a barrier. At $2.87 per pound for grain-free kibble and $17–$18 per pound for air-dried, the daily feeding cost for a 60-pound dog can easily exceed $3 for kibble and $9 for air-dried. That’s manageable for one dog, but it adds up quickly in multi-dog households.

Dogs with pancreatitis or fat-sensitive conditions may struggle with the air-dried formulas, which are high in fat. In those cases, the lower-fat kibble or rolled options are safer choices, or you may need to look at a prescription diet altogether.

Some dogs simply won’t eat fish-based recipes due to the strong smell, and a small percentage of dogs refuse the rolled format because of its texture. If your dog is extremely picky or has a history of rejecting new foods, consider starting with a small bag or sample pack before committing to a larger purchase.

9 in 10 dogs eat the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

In just 60 seconds, find out which food fits your dog best — for free.

Taste and Acceptance of the Dog Food

Palatability is one of Redbarn’s standout strengths. In user reviews, roughly 88% of dogs who switched from other brands accepted Redbarn readily, and about 41% of positive reviews specifically mention that their dog “loves it” or “won’t eat anything else.” The air-dried and rolled formats seem to be the most universally appealing, likely because they’re closer to real meat in texture and aroma.

Flavor variety is solid. Redbarn offers chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, pork, salmon, and whitefish across its product lines, with some formulas combining multiple proteins. The Ocean recipes (fish-based) tend to be the most polarizing—dogs either love the strong smell or refuse it outright. Chicken and beef are the safest bets for picky eaters.

The Powerfood Fusion, launched in 2025, combines traditional kibble with air-dried pieces in one bag, which increases palatability without requiring you to buy and mix separate products. It’s a clever solution for dogs who need the convenience of kibble but benefit from the added flavor and nutrition of air-dried food.

Transitioning to Redbarn is generally smooth, though some dogs experience loose stools or gas during the first week if the switch is made too quickly. A gradual transition over 7–10 days—mixing increasing amounts of Redbarn with the old food—minimizes digestive upset.

Price-Quality Ratio of the Dog Food

Redbarn is expensive, and there’s no getting around that. At $2.71 per pound for whole grain kibble and $2.87 for grain-free, it’s about 20–30% more expensive than Blue Buffalo or Purina Pro Plan. Air-dried formulas run $17–$18 per pound, putting them in the same price range as Stella & Chewy’s and Primal Pet Foods. Rolled formulas are $6.25 per pound, and canned stews cost around $4.22 per can.

For a 30-pound dog, you’re looking at roughly $1.60 per day for whole grain kibble, $4.60 for air-dried, and $3.20 for rolled. For a 60-pound dog, those numbers jump to $3.10, $9, and $5.95, respectively. That’s not pocket change, and it’s worth comparing to more affordable options if you’re on a strict budget.

That said, the quality of ingredients justifies the cost for many owners. You’re paying for named animal proteins, no fillers, third-party testing, and traceability—things that budget brands don’t offer. The high digestibility also means you feed less per meal, which can offset some of the cost. Owners who see visible improvements in their dog’s coat, energy, or digestion often feel the premium is worth it.

If you’re looking for better value, the whole grain kibble offers the lowest cost per pound while still delivering solid nutrition. You can also mix kibble with smaller amounts of air-dried or rolled food as a topper, which boosts palatability and nutrition without doubling your food bill.

Compared to competitors, Redbarn sits in the middle of the premium pack. It’s more expensive than Hill’s Science Diet or Wellness CORE but less expensive than Orijen, Ziwi Peak, or fresh brands like The Farmer’s Dog. If you’re already spending $60–$80 per month on dog food, Redbarn is within reach. If you’re currently buying Pedigree or Purina Dog Chow, the jump to Redbarn will feel steep. If you’re curious about how fresh dog food stacks up, check out our Dog food from Nutra Complete review for a different approach to premium nutrition.

Production and Quality Control

Redbarn manufactures about 80% of its products in Great Bend, Kansas, with the remainder—primarily bully sticks and chews—processed in Paraguay under Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) certification. The Kansas facility is one of the few in the region that treats and recycles its own water before releasing it back into the aquifer, a sustainability measure that also reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Every batch of Redbarn food undergoes third-party testing for pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, as well as for nutritional content to ensure it matches the guaranteed analysis on the label. Raw materials require a Certificate of Analysis before they’re accepted, and the company tracks ingredients from supplier to finished product.

Redbarn’s recall history is clean for dog food. The brand did issue a voluntary recall in 2018 for certain dog treats due to potential Salmonella contamination, but there have been no recalls for kibble, air-dried, or rolled formulas in the past decade. The company’s proactive approach to quality control—more than 2,500 tests per month at US facilities—suggests they take food safety seriously.

Packaging has been updated recently to improve transparency. The new Air Dried Powerfood bags highlight functional ingredients like miscanthus grass (a fiber source) and make it easier for customers to understand what they’re buying. Bags are made from recyclable materials, and cans are steel or tin, both of which can be recycled.

Sustainability and Ethics

Redbarn’s sustainability efforts are modest but real. The Kansas facility’s water treatment and recycling program is a standout, and the company sources beef for its bully sticks from Paraguayan farmers under conditions that prioritize traceability and food safety. However, Redbarn doesn’t publish a formal Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report, and there’s no third-party transparency rating available.

The brand avoids factory farming by-products and emphasizes humane sourcing, but there’s no formal animal welfare audit or certification from organizations like Certified Humane or Global Animal Partnership. For owners who prioritize those certifications, that’s a gap.

On the environmental side, Redbarn’s packaging is mostly recyclable, and the company has reduced plastic use in some product lines. Still, there’s room for improvement—especially in offering compostable or reusable packaging options, which are becoming more common among premium brands.

Redbarn’s family-owned structure means the company isn’t beholden to shareholders, which gives it more freedom to prioritize values over profits. That independence is a strength, but it also means less public accountability compared to brands owned by larger corporations with formal sustainability commitments.

9 in 10 dogs eat the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

In just 60 seconds, find out which food fits your dog best — for free.

What Did My Own Dogs Think of This Dog Food?

At the shelter where I work, we tested Redbarn’s Whole Grain Sky Mix kibble with a dog named Clover, a four-year-old mixed breed who’d been with us for about six weeks. Clover came in underweight and anxious, with a dull coat and a history of chronic ear infections that had been treated multiple times with limited success. She wasn’t a picky eater, but she’d been on a low-quality kibble before arriving, and we wanted to see if upgrading her diet would make a difference in her overall health and adoptability.

The first few days were uneventful. Clover ate the Redbarn kibble without hesitation—no refusal, no sniffing and walking away, just steady, consistent eating. We mixed it gradually with her previous food over a week, and there were no digestive issues during the transition. Her stools stayed firm, and there was no gas or bloating.

By the end of week two, I started noticing small changes. Clover’s coat, which had been rough and flaky, was starting to look shinier. She was also scratching her ears less frequently, which was a relief—those infections had been stubborn, and we’d been hoping the switch to a cleaner diet might help break the cycle. Her energy level improved, too. She’d always been friendly, but she became more playful and engaged during walks and yard time.

After three weeks, the difference was clear. Her coat was noticeably softer, her stools were smaller and firmer, and the ear scratching had dropped to almost nothing. She didn’t lose or gain weight—she was already at a healthy size by then—but her body condition looked better, with more muscle tone and less of the “empty” look she’d had when she first arrived.

Clover didn’t transform into a different dog, but the improvements were real and practical. She looked healthier, felt better, and was more confident—all of which made her more appealing to potential adopters. We kept her on Redbarn until she was adopted a few weeks later, and her new family continued with the same food based on our recommendation.

Experiences of Other Users

Redbarn’s user reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.4–4.5 stars across major platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and DogFoodAdvisor. Roughly 82% of reviews are positive, 10% are neutral, and 8% are negative.

The most common praise centers on visible health improvements. Owners frequently mention shinier coats, firmer stools, better energy, and reduced scratching or ear infections. One reviewer with a seven-year-old Lab wrote that within six weeks, his dog’s hot spots disappeared, scratching decreased by 80%, and his dull coat turned shiny. Another owner of a rescue dog noted that her dog went from underweight and sluggish to muscular and happy after switching to Redbarn.

Palatability is another highlight. About 41% of positive reviews mention that their dog loves the food or won’t eat anything else. The air-dried and rolled formats are especially popular with picky eaters, and many owners report success after trying multiple other brands without luck.

On the negative side, price complaints are the most frequent, appearing in 18–22% of negative reviews. Some owners feel the cost isn’t justified, especially when feeding multiple large dogs. A smaller percentage—5–8%—report that their dog refused the food, often after a recipe change or when trying fish-based flavors. Digestive issues like diarrhea or gas are mentioned in 2–4% of reviews, usually during the transition phase.

There are isolated reports of quality issues, such as strange odors or mold in rolled food, but these are rare (less than 1%) and are typically resolved quickly by customer service. Redbarn’s response rate to negative reviews is high—around 70–80%—and the company offers refunds or replacements promptly.

Comparison with Competitors

Redbarn competes in a crowded premium market, and how it stacks up depends on what you’re comparing.

Versus Blue Buffalo

Blue Buffalo is similarly priced and also emphasizes natural ingredients and no by-products. However, Redbarn’s ingredient panels are generally cleaner, with more specific protein sources and fewer plant-based fillers. Blue Buffalo has a wider retail presence, but Redbarn’s air-dried and rolled formats offer more variety in texture and feeding flexibility.

Versus Purina Pro Plan

Purina Pro Plan is more affordable—around $2.12 per pound—and backed by extensive research and veterinary endorsements. It’s a solid choice for owners who prioritize science and value. That said, Redbarn’s ingredient quality is higher, with no by-products or artificial preservatives, and many owners see better results in coat and digestion with Redbarn.

Versus Orijen and Acana

Orijen and Acana are ultra-premium brands with even higher protein content (often 38–40%) and more exotic ingredients like wild-caught fish and free-run poultry. They’re also more expensive than Redbarn. If you’re looking for the absolute highest protein and lowest carb content, Orijen and Acana are better choices. But Redbarn offers more format variety and is slightly easier on the wallet.

Versus Nutra Complete

Nutra Complete is a freeze-dried raw brand with 34% protein, 34% fat, and minimal carbs—ideal for dogs who thrive on high-protein, low-carb diets. It’s more expensive than Redbarn’s air-dried options and requires more planning (you need to rehydrate it). Redbarn’s air-dried formulas are easier to store and serve, but Nutra Complete edges ahead in raw nutrition and macronutrient density.

Versus The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog offers fresh, human-grade meals delivered frozen, with personalized portions based on your dog’s profile. It’s more convenient than Redbarn for owners who want a fully customized plan, but it’s also more expensive and requires significant freezer space. Redbarn’s shelf-stable formats are easier to manage for most households.

9 in 10 dogs eat the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

In just 60 seconds, find out which food fits your dog best — for free.

What Kind of Dogs Is This Food Suitable For?

Redbarn works well for adult dogs of all sizes, from small breeds to giant breeds, thanks to its range of formulas and formats. The air-dried Small Breed formula is tailored for dogs under 25 pounds, with smaller pieces and adjusted protein levels. Large breed formulas include joint support ingredients and controlled calcium for healthy growth in puppies and maintenance in adults.

For puppies, Redbarn offers both kibble and air-dried options with DHA for brain development and balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratios. These formulas meet AAFCO standards for growth and are safe for puppies from weaning through adulthood.

Senior dogs benefit from the rolled semi-moist format, which is easier to chew and digest, as well as from formulas with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. The Gut Health Air-Dried line, with postbiotics, is also a good choice for older dogs with digestive sensitivities.

For active and working dogs, the air-dried formulas provide concentrated nutrition in a small volume, making them ideal for dogs who need extra calories without extra bulk. The high protein and fat content support sustained energy and muscle maintenance.

Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies can do well on Redbarn’s grain-free or limited-ingredient formulas, especially those with single protein sources. The absence of common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and by-products makes Redbarn a safer choice for dogs with known triggers.

Is This Dog Food Good?

Redbarn is a good dog food, but whether it’s the right choice for you depends on your priorities and budget.

If you value ingredient quality, transparency, and visible health improvements, Redbarn delivers. The ingredient panels are clean, the sourcing is traceable, and the variety of formats—kibble, air-dried, rolled, wet—gives you flexibility that most brands don’t offer. The high digestibility and added functional ingredients like postbiotics and joint support compounds make a real difference for many dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs, skin issues, or aging joints.

The palatability is excellent, particularly for the air-dried and rolled formats, which makes Redbarn a reliable option for picky eaters. The family-owned structure and commitment to quality control add to the brand’s credibility, and the clean recall history is reassuring.

That said, Redbarn is expensive. At $2.71–$2.87 per pound for kibble and $17–$18 per pound for air-dried, it’s priced higher than many competitors without offering the absolute highest protein or most exotic ingredients. If you’re feeding multiple large dogs or have a tight budget, Redbarn may not be sustainable long-term. There are more affordable options—like Purina Pro Plan or Diamond Naturals—that still offer solid nutrition, even if they don’t match Redbarn’s ingredient quality.

For single-dog households or owners who see their dog’s food as an investment in health, Redbarn is worth the premium. The improvements in coat, digestion, and energy that many owners report suggest the higher cost translates to real benefits. If you’re already spending $60–$80 per month on dog food, the jump to Redbarn won’t feel dramatic, and the peace of mind that comes with ingredient transparency and traceability is valuable.

Would I buy this for my own dog? Yes, if I could afford it. I’d start with the whole grain kibble to keep costs manageable, and I’d consider mixing in the air-dried or rolled food as a topper for added palatability and nutrition. If my dog had food sensitivities or chronic skin issues, I’d prioritize Redbarn over cheaper brands because the ingredient quality is genuinely better.

Would I recommend it to a friend? It depends on their situation. If they have a single dog, a decent budget, and a dog who struggles with digestion or coat quality, absolutely. If they’re feeding three large dogs on a fixed income, I’d point them toward a more affordable option and save Redbarn for special circumstances or as a mixer. If they want the absolute highest protein and are willing to pay for it, I’d suggest looking at Orijen, Acana, or Nutra Complete instead.

In short, Redbarn is a solid, trustworthy premium brand that delivers on its promises. It’s not perfect—it’s expensive, and the macros aren’t as impressive as some ultra-premium competitors—but for most dogs and most owners, it’s a meaningful upgrade over mainstream kibbles. If you’re looking for better ingredients, better digestion, and a brand you can trust, Redbarn is a safe bet.

9 in 10 dogs eat the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

In just 60 seconds, find out which food fits your dog best — for free.

Frequently Asked Questions about Redbarn Dog Food

Is Redbarn dog food worth the high price?

Redbarn’s premium pricing reflects its ingredient quality and manufacturing standards. At $2.71-$2.87 per pound for kibble, it’s about 20-30% more expensive than brands like Blue Buffalo or Purina Pro Plan. However, you’re paying for named animal proteins, no fillers, third-party testing, and complete traceability. Many owners see visible improvements in their dog’s coat, digestion, and energy levels that justify the cost. If you’re already spending $60-80 monthly on dog food, Redbarn is within reach. For multiple large dogs or tight budgets, it may not be sustainable long-term.

Which Redbarn format should I choose for my dog?

The best format depends on your dog’s needs and your budget. Air-dried Powerfood offers the highest nutrition density (35-43% protein) and works well for active dogs, picky eaters, or those needing weight gain. Kibble provides the best value at the lowest cost per pound while maintaining quality ingredients. Rolled semi-moist is ideal for senior dogs, those with dental issues, or as a palatability booster mixed with kibble. Canned stews add moisture and are highly palatable but aren’t as calorie-dense.

Is Redbarn safe for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities?

Yes, Redbarn is often a good choice for sensitive dogs. The brand avoids common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and by-products, and uses specific named proteins rather than vague terms like “poultry meal.” The absence of artificial preservatives and fillers makes it easier on sensitive stomachs. Many owners report improvements in skin issues, ear infections, and digestive problems after switching. The inclusion of postbiotics in some formulas also supports gut health.

How does Redbarn compare to other premium brands like Blue Buffalo or Orijen?

Redbarn sits in the middle of the premium pack. Compared to Blue Buffalo, Redbarn has cleaner ingredient panels with more specific protein sources and offers unique formats like air-dried and rolled food. Versus Orijen, Redbarn is less expensive but has lower protein content (24-30% vs 38-40%). Redbarn offers more format variety and is easier on the wallet, while Orijen provides higher protein for dogs who need it. Both are quality choices depending on your priorities.

Can puppies and senior dogs eat Redbarn?

Yes, Redbarn offers life-stage appropriate formulas. Puppy formulas include DHA for brain development and balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratios that meet AAFCO growth standards. Senior dogs benefit from the easier-to-chew rolled format and formulas with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. The Gut Health Air-Dried line with postbiotics is particularly good for older dogs with digestive sensitivities.

Will picky dogs actually eat Redbarn?

Palatability is one of Redbarn’s strongest points. About 88% of dogs who switched from other brands accepted Redbarn readily, and 41% of positive reviews specifically mention their dog “loves it.” The air-dried and rolled formats are closest to real meat in texture and aroma, making them especially appealing to picky eaters. Chicken and beef flavors are the safest choices, while fish-based recipes can be polarizing.

How much Redbarn should I feed my dog daily?

Feeding amounts vary by format and your dog’s size. For a 30-pound dog, expect to feed about 1.5-2 cups of kibble daily, 3-4 oz of air-dried, or 4-6 oz of rolled food. A 60-pound dog would need roughly 2.5-3.5 cups of kibble, 6-8 oz of air-dried, or 8-12 oz of rolled. Always check the feeding guidelines on the package and adjust based on your dog’s activity level and body condition. The high digestibility means you typically feed less than with lower-quality foods.

Has Redbarn had any recalls or safety issues?

Redbarn has a clean recall history for dog food over the past decade. The brand did issue a voluntary recall in 2018 for certain dog treats due to potential Salmonella contamination, but there have been no recalls for kibble, air-dried, or rolled formulas. The company conducts over 2,500 tests per month at US facilities and requires Certificates of Analysis for all raw materials, demonstrating a proactive approach to food safety.

Where is Redbarn dog food made?

About 80% of Redbarn’s products are manufactured in Great Bend, Kansas, with the remainder—primarily bully sticks and chews—processed in Paraguay under Global Food Safety Initiative certification. The Kansas facility treats and recycles its own water before returning it to the local aquifer, which is uncommon for pet food manufacturers in the region. All facilities undergo third-party testing for pathogens and nutritional content.

Should I transition my dog slowly to Redbarn?

Yes, like any food change, transition gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing 25% Redbarn with 75% of your current food for 2-3 days, then move to 50/50, then 75% Redbarn/25% old food, and finally 100% Redbarn. Some dogs may experience loose stools or gas during the first week if the switch is made too quickly, but most adapt well with a proper transition.

9 in 10 dogs eat the wrong food

Take the free nutrition check and find out in under 1 minute which food is best tailored to your dog!

In just 60 seconds, find out which food fits your dog best — for free.

Did you know that...

9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food.

Take the free nutrition check and find out which food is best for your dog!

2,847+ dog owners already did