Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Chicken
Raw-curious owners who want freeze-dried raw benefits in a convenient kibble format
Wellness CORE Original Turkey & Chicken
Owners committed to grain-free feeding who want high-protein, clean ingredients
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Chicken
Raw-curious owners who want freeze-dried raw benefits in a convenient kibble format
Instinct Raw Boost bridges the gap between conventional kibble and raw feeding. The freeze-dried raw pieces mixed into high-protein kibble create a genuinely unique product. Dogs tend to go crazy for it. The price (~$2.02/day) and grain-free concerns are the main trade-offs.
Strengths
- Combines high-protein kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces for added nutrition
- Cage-free chicken is the #1 ingredient with no corn, wheat, soy, or by-products
- Freeze-dried raw coating provides minimally processed nutrition dogs love
Limitations
- Expensive at ~$2.02/day — one of the priciest options in this comparison
- Grain-free formula subject to FDA DCM investigation concerns
- Freeze-dried raw pieces may not appeal to all dogs or owners
When to Choose Wellness CORE Original Turkey & Chicken
Owners committed to grain-free feeding who want high-protein, clean ingredients
Wellness CORE is a strong grain-free option with deboned turkey and chicken leading the formula. High protein content and no artificial anything. The grain-free DCM concern is the main caveat — if your vet approves grain-free, this is one of the better options in the category.
Strengths
- High-protein grain-free formula with deboned turkey and chicken as top ingredients
- No wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, or artificial additives
- Clean safety record with no recalls in 5+ years for dry food
Limitations
- Grain-free formula falls under FDA DCM investigation umbrella
- Premium pricing at ~$1.67/day for a grain-free option
- Ingredient transparency could be stronger on sourcing origins
