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!
Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
Vital Essentials launched in 2009 as the flagship line of Carnivore Meat Company, a family-founded business based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The founders, Lanny and Cheryl Viegut, set out to deliver raw pet food that mimics what dogs would eat in the wild—whole prey, minimal ingredients, and zero synthetic additives. In 2023, the company was acquired by Greater Sum Ventures, a private equity firm, but the mission remained unchanged: transparency, safety, and simplicity.
The brand’s core philosophy revolves around three pillars. First, transparency—every ingredient is traceable, and all production happens in-house at their 235,000-square-foot facility, which opened in 2024 and increased capacity sixfold. Second, safety—Vital Essentials uses a “test-and-hold” protocol and High Pressure Processing (HPP) to control pathogens, alongside GFSI certification and EU export approval. Third, simplicity—recipes are built on single-source animal proteins with no grains, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
Vital Essentials positions itself in the ultra-premium raw food segment, targeting health-conscious owners who want to feed a diet closer to what dogs evolved to eat. The brand is sold in over 7,000 US stores and 14 countries, with a growing retail footprint that includes Pet Supplies Plus and major online platforms. Their product range spans freeze-dried and frozen raw foods, treats, and toppers, all designed around the “whole-prey model” that includes muscle meat, organs, and ground bone.
The company’s reputation is built on a clean safety record—no recalls have been reported from 2023 through 2025—and a commitment to US-sourced ingredients. While the brand doesn’t publish third-party audit reports or detailed supply chain documentation, the investment in a modern facility and consistent messaging around traceability signal a serious approach to quality control. For owners who value ingredient clarity and minimal processing, Vital Essentials offers a credible, established option in a crowded market.
Vital Essentials centers its recipes on single-source animal proteins, with options including chicken, beef, turkey, duck, and rabbit. Each formula lists the named protein as the first ingredient—think “chicken with ground bone” or “beef with ground bone”—which means muscle meat and bone are the foundation of the food, not by-products or meals. This approach delivers high biological value and a complete amino acid profile, supporting everything from muscle maintenance to immune function.
The freeze-drying process preserves the nutritional integrity of raw meat while removing moisture, so the protein percentage on the label is concentrated. For example, the freeze-dried Mini Nibs line shows around 49% crude protein on a dry matter basis, well above the typical kibble range and aligned with what you’d expect from a raw diet. The inclusion of organs—liver, kidney—adds micronutrients like vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron, while ground bone provides natural calcium and phosphorus for skeletal health.
Fat content in Vital Essentials products typically ranges from 26% to 30% on a dry matter basis, depending on the protein source. This is higher than many kibbles and reflects the energy density of raw diets. The fat comes directly from the animal tissue, which means it includes naturally occurring omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, though the brand also adds herring oil in some formulas to boost omega-3 levels for skin, coat, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
The omega-3 to omega-6 ratio isn’t always specified on the label, but the use of herring oil suggests an effort to balance these fatty acids beyond what the meat alone provides. In practice, this means you can expect support for a shiny coat, healthy skin, and reduced inflammation—important for dogs with allergies or joint issues.
One of the most distinctive features of Vital Essentials is the absence of traditional carbohydrates. There are no grains, legumes, or starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes or peas. The only plant matter comes in the form of small amounts of vegetables or fruits added for micronutrients—think kale, spinach, or blueberries—but these are minimal and not used as fillers or bulk agents.
This zero-grain, low-carb approach aligns with the brand’s “biologically appropriate” philosophy, mirroring what a wild dog would eat. For dogs with grain sensitivities or those prone to weight gain, this is a clear advantage. However, it also means the food is calorie-dense and may not suit dogs who need a lower-fat diet for medical reasons.
Vital Essentials keeps its ingredient lists short, which limits the presence of controversial additives. There are no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and no synthetic vitamins or minerals beyond what’s naturally present in the meat, organs, and bone. The brand also avoids common allergens like corn, soy, and wheat.
One point to consider is the inclusion of ground bone, which some owners may find unfamiliar. Ground bone is a natural source of calcium and phosphorus, and it’s a staple of raw feeding, but it does mean the food has a slightly gritty texture when rehydrated. This isn’t a quality issue—it’s by design—but it’s worth noting if you’re new to raw diets.
| Price per pound | $8.00 – $9.00 |
| Primary protein | Chicken, Beef, Turkey, Duck, Rabbit |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulated to meet standards) |
| Formula options | Freeze-dried and frozen raw, Mini Nibs line |
| Availability | 7,000+ US stores, Pet Supplies Plus, online |
Vital Essentials freeze-dried formulas deliver a high-protein, high-fat, low-carbohydrate profile that’s consistent with raw feeding principles. On a dry matter basis, you’re looking at roughly 49% protein, 26% fat, and less than 5% carbohydrates, with the remainder made up of moisture, ash (minerals from bone), and fiber. This macronutrient distribution is ideal for active dogs, working breeds, and those thriving on a low-carb diet.
Caloric density is high—around 4,500 to 5,000 kcal/kg for freeze-dried products—so you’ll feed smaller portions compared to kibble. This can be a cost-effective trade-off if you’re feeding a small or medium dog, but for large or giant breeds, the volume and expense can add up quickly.
Vital Essentials states that its recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, which means they’re designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for puppies, adults, and seniors. The brand doesn’t appear to conduct formal AAFCO feeding trials for every formula, but the formulation method—using whole prey ratios and nutrient-dense ingredients—is intended to meet or exceed minimum requirements.
For owners who want the reassurance of feeding trial data, this may be a limitation. However, the brand’s focus on natural nutrient sources rather than synthetic fortification aligns with the philosophy that whole foods provide bioavailable nutrition without the need for heavy supplementation.
Because Vital Essentials uses whole prey ingredients—muscle meat, organs, and bone—the food naturally contains a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals. Liver provides vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron; ground bone delivers calcium and phosphorus; and herring oil adds vitamin D and omega-3s. The brand doesn’t list synthetic vitamins or chelated minerals on most labels, which suggests confidence in the nutrient density of the raw ingredients themselves.
For dogs with specific health needs—like joint support or digestive health—Vital Essentials doesn’t add glucosamine, chondroitin, or probiotics to the base formulas. However, the brand does offer freeze-dried toppers and treats that can be used to supplement the diet, and the whole-prey approach provides natural sources of collagen and connective tissue that support joint health over time.
Vital Essentials is a strong match for active adult dogs who need high energy and protein to support their lifestyle. Think working breeds, sporting dogs, or any dog with a fast metabolism and high activity level. The calorie-dense, protein-rich profile fuels endurance and muscle maintenance without the carb load that can lead to weight gain in less active dogs.
It’s also well-suited for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, particularly those reacting to grains, legumes, or common protein sources. The single-protein recipes make it easy to identify and avoid triggers, and the minimal ingredient list reduces the risk of hidden allergens. If your dog has been struggling with itching, ear infections, or digestive upset on conventional kibble, a raw diet like Vital Essentials can be a relief.
Owners who prioritize ingredient transparency and minimal processing will appreciate what Vital Essentials offers. You know exactly what’s in the food, where it comes from, and how it’s made—no guesswork, no by-products, no synthetic additives. For dogs transitioning from kibble, the freeze-dried format is more convenient and less intimidating than handling raw frozen meat, while still delivering the benefits of a raw diet.
Vital Essentials may not be the best choice for dogs with pancreatitis or other conditions requiring a low-fat diet. The fat content—typically 26% or higher—is significantly above what’s recommended for dogs with fat-sensitive digestive systems. If your dog has a history of pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or similar issues, you’ll want to consult your vet before introducing a high-fat raw food.
It’s also not the most budget-friendly option for large or giant breeds. The cost per pound is high, and the feeding amounts—while smaller than kibble—still add up when you’re feeding a 70- or 100-pound dog. For owners on a tight budget, mixing Vital Essentials as a topper with a more affordable base food can be a practical compromise, but feeding it exclusively may strain your wallet.
Finally, if you’re new to raw feeding and unsure about handling raw meat or managing freezer space, Vital Essentials’ freeze-dried format is more forgiving than frozen raw, but it still requires some adjustment. The food needs to be rehydrated for optimal digestion, and you’ll need to store it properly to maintain freshness. If you’re looking for the simplest possible feeding routine, a traditional kibble or a fresh-cooked option might be easier to manage day-to-day.
Palatability is one area where Vital Essentials consistently earns high marks. The freeze-dried format locks in the aroma and flavor of raw meat, which most dogs find irresistible. In user reviews, owners frequently mention that their dogs show immediate excitement at mealtime, with enthusiastic eating and clean bowls. Even picky eaters—dogs who’ve turned their noses up at kibble or canned food—often respond positively to the strong meat scent and rich taste.
The brand offers a variety of protein options—chicken, beef, turkey, duck, rabbit—which gives you flexibility if your dog prefers one flavor over another or if you want to rotate proteins to provide dietary variety. Some owners report that their dogs have a clear favorite, while others successfully rotate without any issues. The single-protein approach also makes it easier to identify if your dog has a preference or sensitivity, since each recipe is straightforward and predictable.
One practical consideration is the texture. Freeze-dried food can be fed dry as a crunchy treat or topper, but for optimal digestion, Vital Essentials recommends rehydrating it with warm water. When rehydrated, the food takes on a soft, meaty consistency that most dogs enjoy, though the presence of ground bone can give it a slightly gritty feel. This isn’t a problem for most dogs, but if yours is particularly texture-sensitive, it’s worth noting.
The smaller formats—like the Mini Nibs—are convenient for portioning and feeding, and they double as high-value training treats. The larger bulk bags are more economical for multi-dog households or larger breeds, but you’ll need to manage storage carefully to keep the food fresh once opened. Overall, taste and acceptance are strong points for Vital Essentials, with the vast majority of dogs showing strong enthusiasm and consistent eating habits.
Vital Essentials is positioned firmly in the premium price range, with freeze-dried formulas typically running $8 to $9 per pound for the Mini Nibs, and higher for specialty proteins like rabbit or duck. For a 50-pound dog, you’re looking at roughly $4 to $6 per day in feeding costs, depending on the formula and your dog’s activity level. That’s significantly more expensive than mid-tier kibble and even higher than many fresh-cooked subscription services.
The brand does offer larger bulk bags—3-pound sizes in some formulas—which bring the per-pound cost down slightly, but you’re still paying a premium for the freeze-dried process, US-sourced ingredients, and in-house production. For small dogs, the cost is more manageable, often running $1 to $2 per day, which makes it a viable full-time option. For large or giant breeds, the expense can be prohibitive unless you’re mixing it as a topper or rotating it with a more affordable base food.
The question is whether the quality justifies the price. In terms of ingredient transparency, nutrient density, and safety, Vital Essentials delivers. You’re getting whole prey ingredients, minimal processing, and a clean safety record with no recalls in recent years. The freeze-dried format preserves nutrients better than high-heat kibble manufacturing, and the single-protein recipes make it easier to manage allergies and sensitivities.
However, the value proposition depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for the most affordable way to feed raw, there are less expensive options—frozen raw patties or DIY raw feeding can be cheaper, though they require more hands-on management. If you value convenience and are willing to pay for the ease of freeze-dried feeding, Vital Essentials offers a strong balance of quality and practicality. But if you’re on a tight budget or feeding a large dog, the cost may be a dealbreaker.
Compared to other premium raw brands like Stella & Chewy’s or Primal, Vital Essentials is priced similarly, with the main differences coming down to protein variety and specific formulations. Against fresh-cooked services like The Farmer’s Dog or Nom Nom, Vital Essentials is often more expensive on a per-meal basis, but it doesn’t require freezer space or thawing, which some owners find more convenient. If you’re considering raw feeding, Dog food from Pawtree is another option to explore, though it’s structured as a multi-level marketing brand with a different purchasing model.
Overall, Vital Essentials occupies a premium niche that rewards quality and transparency but demands a higher budget. For owners who can afford it and whose dogs thrive on raw feeding, the value is there. For those who need a more economical solution, mixing it with kibble or rotating it as a topper can still deliver benefits without the full cost.
Vital Essentials produces all its food in-house at a 235,000-square-foot facility in Green Bay, Wisconsin, which opened in 2024 and represents a $55 million investment in infrastructure. This facility handles everything from raw material intake to freeze-drying, packaging, and distribution, which gives the brand tight control over quality and traceability. The company also operates legacy facilities in the Green Bay area, but the new campus is the flagship production site.
The freeze-drying and flash-freezing processes happen on-site, using technology designed to preserve nutrients while removing moisture and controlling pathogens. The brand claims full ingredient traceability, meaning every batch can be traced back to its source, though detailed supply chain documentation isn’t publicly available. All ingredients are US-sourced where possible, which reduces the risk of contamination from overseas suppliers and supports local agriculture.
Vital Essentials employs a “test-and-hold” protocol, which means every batch is tested for pathogens before it’s released for sale. This is a step above many manufacturers who test after the fact or rely on supplier certifications. The brand also uses High Pressure Processing (HPP) to control bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria, which are common concerns in raw pet food.
The facility is GFSI-certified (Global Food Safety Initiative), which is a recognized standard for food safety management, and it’s also EU-certified for export, indicating compliance with strict international standards. While the brand doesn’t publish ISO or HACCP certification numbers, the investment in a modern facility and the clean safety record suggest a serious approach to quality control.
One limitation is the lack of publicly available third-party audit reports or independent lab test results. The brand publishes guaranteed analysis on packaging and online, but there’s no Clean Label Project score, Truth About Pet Food rating, or similar third-party verification. For owners who want external validation of quality claims, this may be a gap.
That said, the brand’s transparency around ingredient sourcing, production location, and safety protocols is better than many competitors. You won’t find detailed supply chain maps or individual ingredient origin data, but the commitment to US sourcing and in-house manufacturing reduces many of the risks associated with complex, multi-country supply chains.
Vital Essentials’ new facility was built with sustainable materials and energy-saving features, according to company statements, though specific details on renewable energy use, water conservation, or waste reduction aren’t published. The freeze-drying process is energy-intensive, which is a trade-off inherent to this type of production, but the brand’s focus on local sourcing reduces transportation-related emissions compared to brands that import ingredients or manufacture overseas.
Packaging is another consideration. The freeze-dried products come in resealable bags, which are convenient but not always recyclable depending on your local facilities. The brand doesn’t appear to have a formal packaging take-back program or sustainability certification like B Corp, so if eco-friendly packaging is a priority, you may want to reach out to the company for more information or consider how you’ll manage disposal.
Vital Essentials sources its proteins from US suppliers, but the brand doesn’t publish detailed animal welfare standards or third-party certifications like Certified Humane or Global Animal Partnership. This doesn’t mean the welfare standards are low—it just means the information isn’t publicly available. For owners who want assurance that the animals were raised humanely, this is a gap worth noting.
The brand does emphasize single-source proteins and transparency, which suggests a focus on quality and traceability, but without formal welfare audits or certifications, it’s difficult to verify the conditions under which the animals were raised. If animal welfare is a top priority, you may want to contact Vital Essentials directly to ask about their sourcing standards.
The company has invested in a pet-friendly workplace, with on-site dog parks and amenities for employees who bring their pets to work. This signals a culture that values pets beyond just products, which is a positive sign. However, there’s no published corporate social responsibility report, sustainability rating, or third-party CSR score, so it’s hard to assess the brand’s broader impact on labor practices, community engagement, or charitable giving.
I work at a local dog shelter, and we tested Vital Essentials with one of our residents, a four-year-old mixed-breed named Riley. Riley is a medium-sized dog—about 45 pounds—with a lot of energy and a history of mild skin sensitivity. She’d been doing fine on our standard kibble, but we’d noticed some occasional scratching and a coat that looked a bit dull, so we were curious to see if a raw diet might make a difference.
We transitioned Riley over about a week, mixing the freeze-dried Vital Essentials chicken formula with her kibble and gradually increasing the proportion. She took to it right away—no hesitation, no pickiness—and by day three she was eating the rehydrated freeze-dried food enthusiastically. The smell of the food definitely caught her attention, and she’d start wagging her tail as soon as we started preparing it.
After about two weeks, we noticed her coat starting to look shinier and fuller, and the scratching seemed to ease up. Her stools were firm and smaller than on kibble, which made cleanup easier and suggested better digestibility. Energy-wise, Riley was already an active dog, so we didn’t see a dramatic change, but she seemed satisfied after meals and wasn’t begging for extra food the way she sometimes did on kibble.
The main practical consideration was the rehydration step—adding warm water and letting it sit for a few minutes before serving. It’s not complicated, but it does add a bit of time compared to just scooping kibble. We also kept the freeze-dried food in a sealed container to maintain freshness, which worked fine but does take up some counter or pantry space. Overall, Riley responded well, and the improvements in coat and skin were noticeable enough that we’d consider keeping her on it if the budget allowed.
User reviews for Vital Essentials are overwhelmingly positive, with many owners reporting strong palatability and visible health benefits. On platforms like Chewy and DogFoodAdvisor, the freeze-dried formulas consistently earn high ratings, with owners praising the ingredient quality, the enthusiasm their dogs show at mealtime, and improvements in coat shine, energy, and stool quality.
One recurring theme is success with picky eaters. Owners mention that dogs who previously refused kibble or canned food will eagerly eat Vital Essentials, often showing excitement and clean bowls at every meal. The strong meat aroma and rich flavor seem to be major drivers of this acceptance, and the variety of protein options makes it easier to find a formula that suits individual preferences.
Health improvements are another common thread. Owners report shinier coats, less shedding, reduced itching, and firmer stools after switching to Vital Essentials. Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies often show noticeable relief, with fewer ear infections, less scratching, and better overall comfort. The single-protein recipes make it easier to identify and avoid triggers, which is a significant advantage for dogs with complex dietary needs.
On the downside, cost is the most frequent complaint. Many owners acknowledge the quality but note that feeding Vital Essentials exclusively is expensive, especially for large dogs. Some use it as a topper or rotate it with kibble to manage costs, which still delivers benefits without the full expense. A few reviews mention that the food is “not suitable for large dogs as a full meal” due to the volume and price, which aligns with the brand’s positioning as a premium, nutrient-dense option rather than a budget-friendly staple.
Negative feedback is rare, but when it appears, it typically involves individual dogs not liking a specific flavor or texture, which is common across all brands. There are no widespread reports of digestive upset, allergic reactions, or quality inconsistencies, which speaks to the brand’s clean safety record and consistent production. Overall, user experiences suggest that Vital Essentials delivers on its promises for dogs who thrive on raw feeding, with the main trade-off being the higher cost.
Both brands are leaders in the freeze-dried raw category, with similar philosophies around minimal processing and high-quality ingredients. Stella & Chewy’s offers a broader range of recipes, including some with added fruits and vegetables for antioxidants and fiber, while Vital Essentials sticks to a stricter whole-prey model with minimal plant matter. Pricing is comparable, though Stella & Chewy’s sometimes edges slightly lower on a per-pound basis. For dogs who need added fiber or prefer recipes with more variety, Stella & Chewy’s may be a better fit, but for pure carnivore nutrition, Vital Essentials holds its ground.
Primal is another major player in raw feeding, offering both freeze-dried and frozen formats. Primal’s recipes often include more vegetables and supplements like probiotics and organic produce, which appeals to owners who want a more holistic approach. Vital Essentials is leaner in terms of ingredients, focusing on meat, organs, and bone without the extra additions. Both brands have clean safety records, but Primal’s frozen line is often more affordable than Vital Essentials’ freeze-dried, making it a good option if you have freezer space and want to manage costs.
Comparing Vital Essentials to fresh-cooked brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, or Nom Nom highlights different priorities. Fresh-cooked services gently cook the food, which some owners find safer or more palatable for their dogs, and they often include personalized meal plans and pre-portioned packs. Vital Essentials is raw, which preserves enzymes and nutrients that cooking can degrade, but it requires more careful handling and isn’t as widely accepted by veterinarians. Cost-wise, fresh-cooked services can be comparable or even cheaper for larger dogs, but they require freezer space and thawing, whereas Vital Essentials’ freeze-dried format is shelf-stable and travel-friendly.
Vital Essentials’ main differentiator is its strict adherence to the whole-prey model and its refusal to add grains, fillers, or synthetic supplements. The brand is laser-focused on raw feeding done right, with in-house production, rigorous safety protocols, and a clean track record. If you’re committed to feeding raw and want a brand that takes transparency and quality seriously, Vital Essentials is a top-tier choice. If you want more variety, added supplements, or a lower price point, competitors like Stella & Chewy’s, Primal, or fresh-cooked services may offer better value or flexibility.
Vital Essentials is particularly well-suited for active adult dogs who need high energy and protein to support their lifestyle. Working breeds, sporting dogs, and high-energy mixes all benefit from the nutrient-dense, calorie-rich profile that fuels endurance and muscle maintenance without the carb load that can lead to weight gain.
It’s also an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, especially those reacting to grains, legumes, or common protein sources. The single-protein recipes and minimal ingredient lists make it easy to identify and avoid triggers, and many owners report significant relief from itching, ear infections, and digestive upset after switching to Vital Essentials.
Puppies can thrive on Vital Essentials, as the formulas are designed to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, including growth and reproduction. The high protein and fat content support rapid development, and the natural calcium and phosphorus from ground bone promote healthy skeletal growth. However, you’ll want to monitor portion sizes carefully to avoid overfeeding, as the calorie density is high.
Senior dogs can also benefit, particularly those who need to maintain muscle mass and energy levels as they age. The high protein content supports lean body condition, and the omega-3 fatty acids from herring oil may help with joint health and inflammation. However, seniors with kidney issues or pancreatitis should consult a vet before starting a high-protein, high-fat diet.
For small breeds, Vital Essentials is manageable in terms of cost and portion size, making it a viable full-time option. The Mini Nibs format is convenient for portioning, and the calorie density means you’ll feed smaller amounts, which can actually make it more economical than it appears. For large and giant breeds, the cost can be prohibitive for exclusive feeding, but mixing it as a topper or rotating it with a more affordable base food can still deliver benefits without breaking the bank.
As a dog food specialist, I think Vital Essentials is a high-quality product that delivers on its promises for dogs who thrive on raw feeding. The ingredient transparency, minimal processing, and clean safety record are all strong points, and the whole-prey model provides a nutrient-dense diet that’s closer to what dogs evolved to eat. For active dogs, dogs with allergies, or owners who prioritize ingredient clarity and want to avoid synthetic additives, Vital Essentials is a solid, trustworthy choice.
That said, it’s not the right fit for everyone. The high cost is a significant barrier, especially for large dogs, and while the quality justifies the price in my opinion, it’s not a budget-friendly option. If you’re feeding a 70-pound dog, you’re looking at $150 to $200 per month or more, which is a serious commitment. For owners on a tight budget, mixing Vital Essentials as a topper or rotating it with kibble can be a practical way to get some of the benefits without the full expense.
I’d recommend Vital Essentials to a friend if their dog has food sensitivities, needs a high-protein diet, or if they’re committed to raw feeding and willing to invest in quality. I’d also recommend it for small to medium dogs where the cost is more manageable. For large or giant breeds, I’d suggest starting with a small bag to see how your dog responds, then deciding whether to feed it full-time or use it as a supplement.
Would I buy it for my own dog? If I had an active, medium-sized dog with no major health issues and the budget to support it, yes—I’d feel confident feeding Vital Essentials as a primary diet. If I were managing a tight budget or feeding a large dog, I’d probably use it as a topper or rotate it with a more affordable option. The quality is there, the safety record is clean, and the benefits are real, but the cost is a factor you can’t ignore. Overall, it’s a premium product that earns its place in the ultra-premium segment, and for the right dog and owner, it’s worth the investment.
Yes, Vital Essentials uses rigorous safety protocols including a “test-and-hold” system where every batch is tested for pathogens before release, plus High Pressure Processing (HPP) to control bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria. The brand has maintained a clean safety record with no recalls from 2023 through 2025. However, like all raw foods, proper handling and storage are important—wash your hands after handling and store according to package instructions.
Vital Essentials is significantly more expensive than traditional kibble, typically running $8 to $9 per pound for freeze-dried formulas. For a 50-pound dog, expect daily feeding costs of $4 to $6, compared to $1 to $2 for quality kibble. However, you feed smaller portions due to the high calorie density, and many owners find the health benefits justify the premium price, especially for smaller dogs where costs are more manageable.
While you can feed the freeze-dried food dry as treats or toppers, Vital Essentials recommends rehydrating it with warm water for optimal digestion when serving as a complete meal. Simply add water, let it sit for a few minutes until it reaches a soft, meaty consistency, then serve. This makes the food easier to digest and more appealing to most dogs.
Yes, Vital Essentials formulas are designed to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, including puppies. The high protein and fat content supports rapid growth, and the natural calcium and phosphorus from ground bone promote healthy skeletal development. However, monitor portion sizes carefully since the food is calorie-dense, and consult your vet about appropriate feeding amounts for your growing puppy.
Vital Essentials can be excellent for dogs with food sensitivities because of its single-protein recipes and minimal ingredient lists. There are no grains, fillers, or common allergens like corn, soy, or wheat. Many owners report significant improvements in itching, ear infections, and digestive upset after switching. The transparency of ingredients makes it easy to identify and avoid specific triggers your dog may have.
Freeze-dried Vital Essentials should be stored in a cool, dry place in the original resealable bag or transferred to an airtight container. Once opened, it typically maintains freshness for several weeks to a few months when stored properly, but check the package for specific storage instructions and expiration dates. The freeze-dried format is more shelf-stable than frozen raw food, making it convenient for travel and storage.
Ground bone is included as part of the “whole prey model” that mimics what dogs would eat in the wild. It provides natural calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones and teeth, eliminating the need for synthetic mineral supplements. The bone is finely ground for safety and digestibility, though it may give the rehydrated food a slightly gritty texture, which is normal and by design.
Yes, many owners successfully use Vital Essentials as a topper or mix it with kibble to manage costs while still providing raw nutrition benefits. This approach can improve palatability of kibble and add nutrient density without the full expense of feeding exclusively raw. Start with small amounts and gradually increase to avoid digestive upset during the transition.
While Vital Essentials provides excellent nutrition for large breeds, the cost can be prohibitive for exclusive feeding of dogs over 60-70 pounds. Many owners of large dogs use it as a topper, rotate it with more affordable options, or feed it occasionally as a special meal. The high calorie density means smaller portions, but the expense still adds up quickly with bigger dogs.
No, the freeze-dried format is shelf-stable and doesn’t require refrigeration until after it’s rehydrated. Store unopened bags in a cool, dry place, and keep opened bags sealed tightly. Only the rehydrated portions need refrigeration if you’re not serving them immediately. This makes Vital Essentials more convenient than frozen raw foods that require constant freezer storage.
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