iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.
The quest for high-quality and novel proteins in dog food has led many pet parents and manufacturers alike to consider less traditional options, such as venison. As a lean, novel protein source, venison provides several nutritional benefits for dogs, including being a great alternative for those with common food sensitivities. In this article, we will explore some of the best venison dog food options on the market, helping you understand the unique benefits they offer and guide you in choosing the perfect venison-based diet for your furry friend.
#1 – Primal Freeze Dried Dog Food Nuggets Venison 14 oz, Complete & Balanced Scoop & Serve Healthy Grain Free Raw Dog Food, Crafted in The USA
Primal Freeze Dried Dog Food Nuggets Venison is a raw dog food made with grass-fed venison and USDA-certified organic fruits and vegetables. It is free from grains, lentils, legumes, and synthetic vitamins and minerals. The freeze-dried nuggets are easy to prepare and provide maximum nutrient absorption for overall health and wellness.
#2 – Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties – Grain Free Dog Food, Protein Rich Simply Venison Recipe – 25 oz Bag
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties offer a protein-rich and grain-free dog food option for pet owners seeking to give their dogs the nutrition they deserve. Made with 85% venison and organs, the whole prey ingredients support healthy digestion, teeth and gums, skin and coat, and vitality while being easy to digest for canines of all life stages. The formula is fortified with added vitamins and minerals, fiber, probiotics, and antioxidants from 100% organic fruits and vegetables, helping support whole body health.
#3 – ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free & Limited Ingredient with Superfoods (Venison, 1.0 lb)
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a high protein, grain-free, and limited-ingredient dog food made with all-natural and ethically sourced ingredients from New Zealand. The air-dried process locks in the nutrition and taste of the raw ingredients, while the inclusion of superfoods promotes optimal health and well-being for dogs of all life stages and breeds.
#4 – WOOF Wild Venison Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food, Mixer, or Topper, or Treat – High Protein, Natural, Limited Ingredient Recipe 2.2 LB
WOOF Wild Venison Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is a high protein, natural, limited ingredient recipe made in small batches in New Zealand using wild venison. It can be used as a complete meal, mixer, topper, or training treat and includes superfoods like kelp, New Zealand Green Mussel, and Manuka Honey. The product is free from artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers and is suitable for pets with allergies or sensitivities. Satisfaction is guaranteed or the purchase can be refunded.
#5 – Addiction Viva La Venison Entrée Dog – Dry Food – Premium Protein Dog Formula – Made in New Zealand – Skin and Coat Care – Puppy & Adult Dog Food 4 pounds
The Addiction Viva La Venison Entrée Dog Food is a premium protein dog formula made in New Zealand. It is a grain-free, filler-free, soy-free, wheat-free, artificial colors, and flavors-free dog food that provides skin and coat care, as well as improves overall health and vitality for puppies and adult dogs. This dog food is made from free-range venison from lush grasslands and pastures, which makes it a healthy, natural, and clean source of protein for dogs.
#6 – Zignature Venison Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Dog Food 4lb
Zignature Venison Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Dog Food is a high-quality dog food that uses venison as its main ingredient, which is low in fat and cholesterol. Its limited-ingredient formula may make it a good option for a rotational diet and it includes vitamins and minerals to support overall health while also being fortified with probiotics to help support gut health.
#7 – Health Extension Dry Dog Food, Natural Food with Added Vitamins & Minerals, Suitable for All Puppies, Grain Free, Venison Recipe with Whole Vegetable & Berries (23.5 Pound)
Health Extension Dry Dog Food is a nutritious and tasty dog food suitable for all puppies. It contains high-quality ingredients and no artificial preservatives, colors, or fillers. The grain-free venison recipe is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids. The food promotes an active lifestyle and is perfect for dogs with sensitivities thanks to the absence of corn, wheat, or soy.
What Are The Benefits of Venison Protein Dog Food?
Venison is a unique and nutritious protein source that offers several benefits for dogs, particularly those with food sensitivities or certain health conditions. Here are some key benefits of venison protein dog food:
- Novel Protein: Venison is considered a “novel” protein for many dogs, meaning it’s not commonly used in dog food and therefore dogs are less likely to have developed a sensitivity or allergy to it. For dogs with food allergies or intolerances to more common protein sources like chicken or beef, venison can be a good alternative.
- Lean Protein: Venison is a lean protein, which means it’s low in fat. This can be beneficial for dogs that need to manage their weight or have health conditions where a low-fat diet is recommended.
- Rich in Nutrients: Venison is rich in several important nutrients for dogs. It’s a good source of B vitamins (particularly vitamin B12), zinc, and iron, which play crucial roles in many biological processes, including metabolism, immune function, and oxygen transportation.
- Highly Digestible: Venison is typically highly digestible for dogs, meaning your pet can more efficiently utilize the nutrients it contains. This makes it a particularly good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
- Taste: Many dogs find the taste of venison appealing, which can make meal times more enjoyable, particularly for picky eaters.
Remember that while venison has many benefits, it’s essential that the overall diet is well-balanced. A high-quality venison dog food should also contain a balance of other necessary nutrients, including carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, to ensure your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Related: Top 13 Dog Food Brands With No Recalls
Frequently Asked Questions About Venison Dog Foods
- What is venison dog food? Venison dog food is a type of pet food where venison, which is deer meat, serves as the primary source of protein. It is often used as an alternative to more common protein sources like chicken or beef, particularly for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
- Why choose venison dog food? Venison is a novel, lean, and highly digestible protein that is rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and zinc. It’s an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities, those that need to manage their weight, or those with certain health conditions.
- Is venison dog food hypoallergenic? While no food is truly hypoallergenic, venison is considered a novel protein for many dogs, meaning they’re less likely to have developed a sensitivity or allergy to it. If your dog is allergic to common protein sources, venison might be a good alternative.
- Is venison dog food suitable for all dogs? Venison dog food can be a good choice for many dogs, provided it is balanced and nutritionally complete. However, every dog is unique, and the suitability of venison dog food will depend on your dog’s specific dietary needs and health status.
- Can puppies eat venison dog food? Puppies can eat venison dog food, provided it’s formulated to meet their specific nutritional needs. Puppies have different dietary requirements than adult dogs, so always choose a food labeled as suitable for puppies or all life stages.
- Is venison dog food grain-free? Not all venison dog foods are grain-free. Whether a venison dog food is grain-free or not will depend on the specific formulation. If your dog has a grain allergy or sensitivity, always check the food’s ingredient list to ensure it is grain-free.
- How do I transition my dog to venison dog food? Transition your dog to a new food gradually over a week or two, starting with a mix of 75% old food and 25% new food, and gradually increasing the proportion of the new food. This can help avoid digestive upset.
- Does venison dog food cause allergies? Any dog food can cause allergies if it contains an ingredient your dog is allergic to. Venison is a novel protein for many dogs, so it’s less likely to cause an allergic reaction compared to more common proteins. However, if your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction, consult your vet.
- Can venison dog food help with my dog’s skin issues? For dogs with food allergies or intolerances that result in skin issues, switching to a novel protein source like venison can potentially help. However, it’s crucial to consult with your vet before making dietary changes based on skin conditions, as they can have many causes.
- Is venison dog food expensive? Venison dog food can be more expensive than dog food made with more common proteins. This is because venison is a less common protein source, and its production costs can be higher. However, prices can vary between brands and formulations.
Conclusion: Best Venison Dog Foods
Feeding your pet a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet is one of the best ways to ensure their overall health and longevity. Venison dog foods can be an excellent choice, providing a novel protein source that is lean and nutrient-dense, and often well-tolerated by dogs with food sensitivities. However, like any diet change, switching to venison-based dog food should be done gradually and under the supervision of a veterinarian or a pet nutrition expert. With the right approach, venison dog food can be a wholesome and appetizing option for your beloved four-legged companion.
iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.
Toledo, United States.
