Quick answer
Our top pick is Stella & Chewy’s Absolutely Rabbit Dinner Patties for its single-source novel protein, which suits many Australian Shepherds with food sensitivities. For owners wanting a balanced raw option with grains, we recommend Nature’s Logic Rabbit Meal Feast. Puppies and seniors may prefer smaller-bite formulas or specific nutrient profiles; see our full list below.
What to consider for Raw Dog Food For Australian Shepherds
Australian Shepherds are a medium-to-large, high-energy breed prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and food allergies (especially to chicken and beef). A raw diet should feature a novel protein like rabbit, venison, or lamb, and include moderate fat (around 15 to 20 percent on a dry matter basis) to fuel their activity without promoting obesity. Joint-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin are beneficial. Always transition slowly over 7 to 10 days and consult your vet before starting raw feeding.
What to look for in a dog food
Ensure the food states an AAFCO statement of nutritional adequacy for the appropriate life stage (adult maintenance or all life stages). The first ingredient should be a named meat or meat meal (e.g., “rabbit” or “lamb meal”). For raw foods, look for a guaranteed analysis with protein around 35 to 45 percent, fat 15 to 25 percent, and fiber under 5 percent on a dry matter basis. Calorie content should be 350 to 450 kcal per cup for active adults. Avoid unnamed “meat meal” or “poultry meal.” If your Australian Shepherd is a large breed puppy, choose a food with controlled calcium and phosphorus levels. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed help maintain coat health and reduce inflammation.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated ingredient quality: named protein source first, no artificial preservatives or fillers.
- Checked for AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement and appropriate life stage.
- Considered breed-specific needs: joint support, moderate fat, and novel protein options for allergies.
- Reviewed customer feedback for palatability and digestive tolerance in Australian Shepherds.
- Compared price per pound and feeding cost relative to nutritional value.
- Prioritized brands with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices.
- Included a range of formats (patties, nuggets, freeze-dried) to suit different feeding preferences.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid foods with unnamed “meat meal” or “poultry meal” as the only protein source; these can be low-quality or inconsistent.
- Be cautious with grain-free or legume-heavy recipes. The FDA is investigating a potential link between grain-free diets and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Grain-inclusive diets are generally safer unless your vet advises otherwise.
- Do not feed an “all life stages” food to a large-breed puppy unless it meets the specific calcium and phosphorus levels for large-breed growth.
- Never switch abruptly from kibble to raw; transition over 7 to 10 days to avoid digestive upset.
For more guides, visit our dog guides, dog food, and dog nutrition sections.
