Keep the Tail Wagging is supported by pet parents. I occasionally earn a commission (at no additional cost to you) when you click through an affiliate link to one of my favorite products. Thank you for your support. Read More
Are Dog Subscription Boxes Worth It for Raw Fed Dogs?
There’s no shortage of subscription boxes for dogs, but which one is best for raw feeders? In my opinion, it’s Real Dog Box. I’ll admit, I’m biased. I’ve been a subscriber for years, and the owners are friends of mine. But even if I weren’t, the quality and transparency speak for themselves.
Why Try a Dog Subscription Box?
Subscription boxes offer convenience and fun for pet parents. With new toys and treats delivered to your door, you can skip the pet store and potentially save money. These boxes are also a great way to discover new products.
But not all boxes are created equal. Many contain toys that don’t last and treats with questionable ingredients. I’ve tried several and ended up tossing or giving away most of the contents, not exactly the return I hoped for.
Choosing the Right Subscription Box for Your Dog
When evaluating subscription boxes, consider:
- Your Dog’s Size & Chewing Style: A box for small breeds won’t cut it for a power-chewing shepherd.
- Dietary Needs: If your dog has allergies or food sensitivities, look for boxes that allow customization.
- Lifestyle & Personality: Active pups may enjoy puzzle toys, while calmer dogs may prefer chews or cozy items.
- Your Budget: Compare the cost of the subscription with what you'd pay for similar products separately. Many boxes offer introductory deals or flexible plans.
Popular Dog Subscription Boxes for Dog Lovers
BarkBox – A fun, themed box of toys and treats tailored to your dog’s size and play style. Great for dogs who love toys and surprises—but not ideal for raw feeders or tough chewers.
PupBox – Designed for puppies, PupBox includes training guides, age-appropriate toys, and treats to support their development. It’s a helpful tool for new dog parents navigating the puppy stage.
Real Dog Box – Created with raw-fed dogs in mind, Real Dog Box delivers air-dried, single-ingredient treats and chews—no fillers or mystery ingredients. You can choose from:
- Treats Only
- Chews Only
- Treats & Chews Combo
Add-ons include air-dried meatballs (great emergency meals), super chews, and food toppers. Real Dog Box curates each package based on your dog’s size and sensitivities. It’s a win for multi-dog homes like mine, and you can pause anytime if you need to catch up.
The Real Dog Box Wellness Membership
For dog owners who want to go deeper into nutrition, the Wellness Membership includes:
- Monthly one-on-one consultations with a Wellness Coach
- Unlimited access to Certified Canine Nutritionists
- Early access to the Secret Shop (where I stock up on rabbit ears, green-lipped mussels, and more)
- Access to the Feed Real Institute research and tools
Perfect for fresh feeders, DIY raw feeders, and nutrition nerds like me.
What Was In Our Last Real Dog Box?
Our December 2024 Real Dog Box contained the following air-dried treats and chews:
- PROTEIN: bison lung – high in protein, iron, B12, and selenium
- ORGAN: pork liver – an excellent source of Vitamins A and B12, iron, copper, and zinc
- SEAFOOD: capelin – small fish from the smelt family that's low in mercury, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and a great meal topper
- LIGHT CHEW: lamb ear, with fur – an easy chew for gentle chewers; the fur is an excellent source of fiber and manganese
- MEDIUM CHEW: duck heads – fully consumable and a great option for low or no-bone meals
- HEAVY CHEW: cow ear, with fur that can be long-lasting for some heavy chewers (but not all)
Each item comes in multiples, easily enough to share among my dogs. Buying all this separately would cost over $75, but Real Dog Box delivers it for far less.
Alternatives to Real Dog Box
Not ready to commit to a subscription? You can build your own treat and toy bundles at home:
- Find quality toys at Marshalls, HomeGoods, or TJ Maxx
- Make dehydrated treats with meat from discount or ethnic grocery stores
- Connect with local homesteaders or check community freezer dump groups for free meat
These sources will allow you to make DIY gift baskets tailored to your dog’s taste while saving money in the process.
