What to Look for in a High-Quality Raw Brand

Choosing to feed your dog a raw diet is a powerful step toward better health, improved digestion, and long-term vitality. But not all raw food brands are created equal. As raw feeding grows in popularity, so too does the number of products on the market—some carefully formulated and regulated, others not. If you want the best for your pet, here’s what to look for in a truly high-quality raw dog food brand.

Ethically Sourced, Human-Grade Ingredients

One of the most important markers of a premium raw brand is ingredient sourcing. Look for brands that use human-grade meats, preferably free-range or wild-caught, and avoid anything labelled as “meat derivatives” or “by-products.” You want to know exactly what’s going into your dog’s bowl.

Raw Gold, for example, only uses ethically sourced, growth hormone- and antibiotic-free meats—like free-range chicken and duck, or wild-caught sardines. The quality of the source directly impacts the health benefits your dog will receive.

Complete and Balanced Formulation

A high-quality raw brand should provide a balanced nutritional profile, including the right ratio of meat, bone, organ, and plant matter. For followers of the BARF (Bones And Raw Food) diet, this often looks like 80% meat and bone, 20% fruit and veg—just like Raw Gold’s Free Range Chicken or Duck with Vegetables.

Also check that the meals meet established nutritional standards, and where applicable, are registered with the relevant agricultural authorities, such as South Africa’s Act 36 of 1947.

Transparency Is Key

Trustworthy brands don’t hide behind vague terms. You should see clearly listed ingredients and nutritional breakdowns on every product. Transparency around what’s in the food—and how it’s made—is key.

Brands like Raw Gold go one step further by testing their products regularly through accredited independent laboratories to ensure they remain free of harmful pathogens and nutritionally consistent.

Proper Hygiene and Handling Practices

Raw food must be prepared under strict hygiene standards to prevent bacterial contamination. Ask whether the brand manufactures in its own facility, maintains sanitary conditions, and uses methods like blast freezing to lock in freshness and safety.

At Raw Gold, every meal is prepared in-house, immediately frozen to -28°C, and packaged under controlled conditions to preserve quality and nutrition.

Digestibility and Suitability for Sensitive Dogs

The best raw brands are formulated with digestibility and tolerance in mind, especially for dogs with allergies or food sensitivities. Does the food exclude grain, gluten, colourants, or preservatives? Has the brand taken care to include natural sources of glucosamine, chondroitin, and essential fatty acids?

Raw Gold’s offerings tick every one of those boxes, making them ideal for even the most sensitive dogs.

Proven Track Record and Reputation

Lastly, look for credibility. Brands with a proven track record, knowledgeable founders, and positive reviews from both pet owners and vets are far more likely to deliver consistently high-quality meals.

Raw Gold is run by a passionate husband-and-wife team with decades of experience in breeding, animal care, and nutrition—backed by a loyal customer base that values real results.

Feeding Raw Is More Than A Trend

Feeding raw is more than a trend—it’s a long-term investment in your dog’s health. But that investment only pays off if the food you choose is safe, balanced, and made with integrity. When evaluating your options, make sure they measure up to the gold standard.