Keep Dogs Hydrated on Summer Walks: 5 Best Raw Foods
Raw dog food's 70-80% moisture content helps hydrate dogs on summer walks. We compare 5 top picks, including Stella & Chewy's freeze-dried patties, with calorie-conscious guidance to prevent weight gain.
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Best Overall: Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties - Chicken & Salmon Recipe. These patties are made with 95% chicken and salmon, organs, and bone, providing high-quali.
Best for Sensitive Stomach: Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets - Lamb Formula. With a limited ingredient list featuring lamb as the sole protein, this recipe is gentle o.
Best Budget: Nature's Variety Instinct Raw Boost Mixers - Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Raw Topper. These mixers allow you to add raw nutrition to your dog's existing kibble at a lower cost.
Best for Puppies: Sojos Wild Prey Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food - Turkey Recipe. Formulated for all life stages, this recipe includes turkey, organs, and ground bone, plus.
Best Grain-Inclusive: The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters - Chicken Recipe. This dehydrated raw food includes grains like oats and barley, providing fiber for steady.
Quick answer
Our top pick is Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties for their balanced nutrition and convenience. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets offer a limited ingredient option. Budget-conscious owners can consider Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost Mixers as a topper.
What to consider for Raw Dog Food For Summer Walks
Summer walks demand a diet that provides sustained energy without overheating. Raw food’s high moisture content helps with hydration, but its high protein and fat levels can be too rich for some dogs in warm weather. Look for recipes with moderate fat (around 15 to 20% on a dry matter basis) to avoid digestive upset. Also consider freeze-dried or dehydrated raw options that are lightweight and easy to pack for hikes. Always ensure the food is AAFCO complete and balanced for your dog’s life stage.
What to look for in a dog food
Choose a raw food that states AAFCO complete and balanced for your dog’s life stage (adult maintenance or all life stages). The first ingredient should be a named meat source like chicken, beef, or lamb. Protein should be around 30 to 40% on a dry matter basis, fat around 15 to 20% for active dogs. Calorie density should be appropriate: around 350 to 450 kcal per cup for active adults. For large breeds, ensure calcium and phosphorus levels are balanced for bone health. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed can support joint health during walks. Avoid recipes with excessive carbohydrates or fillers.
How we chose these picks
Evaluated ingredient quality and sourcing transparency.
Verified AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements.
Considered protein, fat, and moisture content suitable for active dogs.
Reviewed customer feedback on palatability and digestibility.
Checked for inclusion of joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine or omega-3s.
Prioritized brands with strong safety and quality control records.
Compared price per serving to ensure value.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
Avoid unnamed meat meals as the primary protein source; they can be low quality.
Do not default to grain-free or legume-heavy recipes; the FDA DCM investigation is ongoing, and grain-inclusive is safer unless a vet advises otherwise.
Steer clear of all-life-stages food for large-breed puppies; they need specific calcium levels.
Avoid abrupt diet switches; transition over 7 to 10 days to prevent digestive upset.
Raw dog food's high moisture content (70-80%) can help keep dogs hydrated during summer walks, but its calorie density requires careful portion control to avoid weight gain.
The Options
Types Explained
Freeze-Dried Raw
Raw food that is freeze-dried to remove moisture while preserving nutrients. Lightweight and shelf-stable, ideal for walks and travel.
Best for: Owners who want convenience without sacrificing raw nutrition. Easy to portion and rehydrate.
Frozen Raw
Complete raw meals that are frozen to maintain freshness. Typically higher moisture content and less processed.
Best for: Dogs that thrive on a whole-food raw diet and owners with freezer space. Must be thawed before feeding.
Dehydrated Raw
Raw ingredients gently dehydrated to remove moisture. Lighter than frozen but requires rehydration. Often includes grains or vegetables.
Best for: Owners seeking a shelf-stable option with longer shelf life. Good for hiking or camping.
Raw Toppers and Mixers
Freeze-dried raw pieces designed to be added to kibble or other base diets. Not a complete meal on their own.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who want to add raw nutrition without fully switching. Also useful for picky eaters.
These patties are made with 95% chicken and salmon, organs, and bone, providing high-quality protein and moisture for hydration during walks. They are freeze-dried for convenience and easy portioning. However, they are pricey compared to kibble, and some dogs may find the texture too crumbly.
Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets - Lamb Formula
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With a limited ingredient list featuring lamb as the sole protein, this recipe is gentle on sensitive stomachs. It includes organic produce and supplements like probiotics. The nuggets are easy to rehydrate. A downside is the higher fat content (around 30% dry matter), which may not suit all active dogs.
Nature's Variety Instinct Raw Boost Mixers - Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Raw Topper
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These mixers allow you to add raw nutrition to your dog's existing kibble at a lower cost than a full raw diet. They are made with cage-free chicken and freeze-dried to preserve nutrients. However, as a topper, they do not provide complete nutrition on their own, and some dogs may pick out the pieces.
Sojos Wild Prey Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food - Turkey Recipe
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Formulated for all life stages, this recipe includes turkey, organs, and ground bone, plus added vitamins and minerals. It's high in protein (40% dry matter) to support growth. The freeze-dried format is lightweight for walks. A limitation is that it may be too rich for some puppies, causing loose stools.
The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters - Chicken Recipe
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This dehydrated raw food includes grains like oats and barley, providing fiber for steady energy during walks. It's made with human-grade chicken and vegetables. The clusters are easy to rehydrate. However, it contains slightly more carbohydrates than typical raw diets, which may not suit owners seeking very low-carb options.
Higher moisture helps with hydration during summer walks but also means you need to feed more by volume. Look for at least 60% moisture in frozen raw or rehydrate freeze-dried properly.
02
Protein and Fat Balance
Active dogs need moderate protein (30-40% dry matter) and fat (15-20%) for energy without overheating. Too much fat can cause pancreatitis in some dogs.
03
Calorie Density
Check kcal per cup or patty. Active dogs may need 30-40 calories per pound of body weight daily. Adjust portions based on activity level and body condition.
04
Life Stage Appropriateness
Ensure the food is labeled for your dog's life stage. Puppies need higher calcium and phosphorus; seniors may benefit from lower fat and added joint supplements.
05
Ingredient Sourcing and Safety
Choose brands that use human-grade meats and have rigorous safety protocols, such as HPP (high-pressure processing) to kill pathogens without cooking.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Transitioning to Raw
Switch gradually over 7 to 10 days by mixing increasing amounts of raw food with the current diet. Monitor stool consistency and appetite. Some dogs may experience temporary loose stools as their digestive system adjusts.
Handling and Storage
Keep frozen raw food at 0 degrees F or below. Thaw in the refrigerator, not at room temperature. Freeze-dried raw should be stored in a cool, dry place. Wash hands and surfaces after handling to prevent bacterial contamination.
Hydration During Walks
Raw food provides moisture, but always carry fresh water on walks. Offer water every 20 to 30 minutes, especially in hot weather. Rehydrate freeze-dried food according to package directions to ensure adequate hydration.
Pro tip
For long walks, rehydrate freeze-dried raw food with warm water 15 minutes before feeding to make it more palatable and increase water intake.
Frequently asked questions
How much raw dog food should I feed my dog for summer walks?
Feeding amounts depend on your dog's weight, age, and activity level. A general guideline is 2 to 3% of ideal body weight per day for adult dogs. For active dogs, you may need to increase to 3 to 4%. Divide into two meals. Monitor body condition and adjust. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
How many calories does my dog need daily for active walks?
An active adult dog typically needs 30 to 40 calories per pound of body weight per day. For example, a 50-pound dog may require 1,500 to 2,000 calories daily. Check the calorie content of the raw food (usually listed per patty or cup) and adjust based on your dog's energy expenditure and weight maintenance.
Is grain-free raw dog food safe for my dog?
Grain-free diets have been linked to a potential risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some dogs, according to an FDA investigation. While many dogs do well on grain-free raw, it is safer to choose a grain-inclusive recipe unless your veterinarian advises otherwise due to a specific allergy. Consult your vet before switching.
Can I feed raw dog food to my puppy?
Yes, but choose a formula labeled for all life stages or specifically for puppies. Puppies need precise calcium and phosphorus levels for bone development. Raw diets for puppies should include ground bone or a calcium supplement. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure the diet is balanced for growth.
Is raw dog food suitable for overweight dogs?
Raw food can help with weight management due to its high protein and low carbohydrate content. However, it is calorie-dense, so portion control is essential. Choose a recipe with moderate fat (around 10 to 15% dry matter) and measure portions carefully. Combine with regular exercise and consult your vet for a weight loss plan.
What should I consider for senior dogs on raw food?
Senior dogs may benefit from lower fat and higher fiber to maintain weight and digestive health. Look for recipes with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Some seniors have kidney issues, so protein levels should be moderate. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes for an older dog.
Is raw dog food appropriate for large breed dogs?
Yes, but ensure the food meets large breed nutritional requirements, especially for calcium and phosphorus. Large breed puppies need controlled calcium levels to prevent skeletal issues. For adult large breeds, look for recipes with balanced omega-3s for joint health. Portion sizes will be larger, so consider cost and storage.
Should I choose dry or wet raw food for summer walks?
Freeze-dried or dehydrated raw is more convenient for walks because it is lightweight and doesn't require refrigeration. Frozen raw needs to be thawed and kept cool. Wet raw (frozen) provides more moisture but is heavier. For hikes, freeze-dried raw that can be rehydrated with water is ideal.
Can raw dog food cause digestive upset during walks?
Some dogs may experience loose stools or gas when first switching to raw, especially if the food is high in fat or protein. To minimize issues, transition slowly and choose a recipe with moderate fat. Avoid feeding immediately before a walk; wait at least an hour after eating to allow digestion.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency
How we made this guide
How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Food, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.
How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.
Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.
