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Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food Review

Dr. Marty · 5 lb · Dog

Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Adult Small Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food 80 oz
$45.20/ lb·$225.99total

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Overview

Dr. Marty's Nature's Blend for small-breed adults offers a distinct alternative to conventional kibble by using a freeze-drying process to preserve nutrients. This 80 oz bag contains a food crafted to deliver the nutritional profile of a raw diet but with the convenience and shelf-life of a dry product. The "Nature's Blend" name suggests a multi-protein formula, aiming to provide a wide spectrum of amino acids for your dog's overall health. Designed specifically for the higher metabolic rates and smaller jaws of little dogs, this food bypasses the high-heat cooking methods that can sometimes diminish the vitamin and enzyme content in traditional pet foods. Instead, the freeze-drying technique locks in the natural goodness of the raw ingredients, resulting in a nutrient-dense final product that champions a more ancestral approach to canine nutrition.

Key features

  • Freeze-dried raw formulation preserves nutrients and flavor.
  • Specifically designed for adult small-breed dogs.
  • "Nature's Blend" indicates a varied, multi-protein source approach.
  • Minimally processed compared to traditional, high-heat kibble.
  • Comes in a conveniently sized 80 oz (5 lb) bag.

Pros

  • Nutrient-dense due to the freeze-drying process, which helps retain the value of raw ingredients.
  • High palatability is common with freeze-dried foods, making it a potential option for picky eaters.
  • Formulated to meet the specific energy needs and smaller bite-size requirements of small breeds.
  • The mixed-protein blend can offer a more complex and complete amino acid profile.

Cons

  • Carries an ultra-premium price tag, making it one of the most expensive options per pound in its category.
  • Mixed protein sources may not be suitable for dogs with specific food sensitivities or allergies.
  • Some owners may find the need to rehydrate the food with water to be an inconvenient extra step.
  • The high cost can make this prohibitive for long-term exclusive feeding for many budgets.

Best for

This food is best suited for the discerning pet owner of a small adult dog who prioritizes a minimally-processed, nutrient-dense, raw-style diet and is prepared to make a significant financial investment in their pet's nutrition. It's particularly targeted at those looking to avoid common fillers and high-heat processing methods.

Feeding guide

As a general guideline for freeze-dried foods, a small adult dog might require around 1/2 to 3/4 cup per 10-15 lbs of body weight per day. This amount should always be split into at least two separate meals. However, this is only an estimate. It is critical to consult the specific feeding chart on the product's packaging and adjust the portion based on your dog's age, metabolism, activity level, and body condition. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian to establish the perfect daily caloric intake.

Ingredients & nutrition note

The "Nature's Blend" label implies this food is made from a variety of animal proteins. Freeze-dried raw diets typically feature a high concentration of meat, organs, and ground bone. We cannot provide a specific ingredient list; it is crucial for owners, especially those with allergy-prone dogs, to carefully read the full ingredient panel on the package to ensure it is a good fit for their pet.

Price comparison

With a price of $45.20 per pound, this 5 lb bag of Dr. Marty's Nature's Blend sits in the absolute top tier of the dry dog food market for small bags. For perspective, this is substantially higher than the category average of $27.40 per pound and towers over the median price of just $7.99 per pound. This places the product among the most premium-priced options available, a cost that reflects its specialized ingredients and the complex, expensive freeze-drying manufacturing process.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is freeze-dried raw dog food?

Freeze-dried raw food is a type of diet where raw ingredients are frozen and then gently have the moisture removed in a vacuum. This process preserves the nutritional integrity and enzymes of the raw meat, fruits, and vegetables without the need for high-heat cooking, resulting in a shelf-stable, nutrient-dense food.

Do I need to add water to this food?

While it can often be served dry, most manufacturers recommend rehydrating freeze-dried food with warm water. This not only restores moisture to the food, making it more palatable and easier to digest, but also helps ensure your dog stays properly hydrated.

Is this small breed formula suitable for my large breed puppy?

No, this product is specifically formulated for the needs of adult small-breed dogs. It will not have the correct nutritional balance (e.g., calcium-phosphorus ratio) or caloric density required for a growing large-breed puppy.

Why is Dr. Marty Nature's Blend so expensive?

The high price point is directly related to the manufacturing process and ingredient quality. Freeze-drying is a costly, time-intensive method compared to producing traditional kibble. Furthermore, high-quality, raw meat-first recipes are inherently more expensive than foods that rely on grains or meal as their primary ingredients.

Is a mixed-protein diet good for dogs?

For most dogs without specific allergies, a diet with multiple protein sources, like a "Nature's Blend," can be beneficial. It provides a wider range of amino acids and nutrients. However, if your dog has known food sensitivities, it is safer to stick with a single-protein formula to avoid triggering a reaction.

How should I store this food?

Like other dry pet foods, it should be stored in a cool, dry place. Reseal the bag tightly after each use to maintain freshness and prevent moisture from getting in, which could spoil the product.

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