Sojos Dog Food Review: Raw, Freeze-Dried Nutrition for a Natural Diet

Ever wanted to feed your dog an ancestral raw diet, but can’t quite stomach the thought of making it yourself? Sojos may have the answer. The company makes shelf-stable, freeze-dried foods that rehydrate for a full nutritional experience without the fuss of homemade raw.

It’s a viable option for those who can’t reliably make or store homemade raw but still want to upgrade their dog’s food to a more densely packed nutritional meal.  It’s easy to serve and could make switching your dog to raw so much easier.

Let’s break it all down to see if Sojos may finally be the answer to your raw food problems, read our comprehensive Sojos Dog Food Review below.

Brand Quick Look

• Parent Company: WellPet, LLC.
• Founded in: 1985
• Made in: Minnesota, USA
• Made by: Sojos Facilities
• Available at: Chewy, Amazon, Walmart
• Types of Food: Wet, Dry, Freeze-Dried
• Real Meat in First 5 Ingredients? : Yes
• Recalled in Past? : No

Behind the Brand

Sojos is a unique player in the world of dog food. The brand pioneered the concept of an easier to make and serve raw food that stored as well as kibble but provided the dense nutrition of a raw food diet.

The company uses no artificial ingredients like colors or flavors that can encourage dogs to overeat or cause an allergic reaction. The recipes have no cheap fillers found in many bargain kibbles like corn or soy. These fillers offer nothing but empty calories and are frequently the source of allergies and itchy skin.

The ingredients lists are very short and designed to mimic the ancestral diet of your dog’s canine ancestors. There are no unnamed meats or by-product meals, and everything is easily identifiable. The recipes offer a holistic diet that may help some dogs finally overcome allergies and digestive issues.

Sojos Dog Food Reviews

 

1. Complete Beef Recipe

First 5 ingredients: Beef, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Whole Egg, Cabbage

Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars

This dehydrated formula is a grain-free freeze-dried raw food formulated to provide the nutritional needs of adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. It is made of USDA-approved beef and human-grade fruits and vegetables.

This shelf-stable recipe makes for a very tasty, nutritious, yet easy to prepare meal just for dogs. Preparing your dog’s meal is quite easy. All you need to do is rehydrate the food with some water, wait for a few minutes and serve it to your pup.

Beef is the most plentiful ingredient in this recipe, making it packed with meaty flavors that dogs naturally crave. It is high in amino acids that dogs need to keep a lean muscle mass.

Aside from protein, beef is a good source of iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamins B12, B3 and B6. Beef liver and whole egg are included as additional sources of protein. Beef liver adds more flavor to this dog food, while both add richness to this recipe.

Sweet potatoes are the main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe. It has a lower glycemic index compared to white potatoes. It is high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron.

Carrots, flaxseeds, and celery are also included as natural sources of nutrients in this recipe. Carrots are high in fiber that helps aid digestion. It is also rich in beta carotene, which produces vitamin A that helps improve dogs’ eyesight.

Beta carotene is also an antioxidant that helps prevent diseases and infection. It plays an important role in promoting healthy skin and coat, as well as bone development, reproductive health, and cancer prevention.

Despite not having additional sources of fat, this formula has moderate levels of fat. This recipe has all the essential fatty acids that dogs require for healthy skin and coat. Aside from the naturally nutritious, high-quality ingredients, this recipe is fortified with vitamins and minerals to ensure a complete and balanced meal with every serving.

This complete meal contains no corn, wheat, or soy. It is grain, gluten, chicken, and pea-free, making it ideal for very sensitive dogs. It contains no artificial enhancers such as flavors, colors, or preservatives. This is loved by many picky pooches, both on its own and as a meal-topper. However, a few don’t seem to enjoy this recipe as much.

The pets who liked this beef recipe have shown various improvements in many aspects of their health. Some had significant improvements in their digestive systems and stool quality, while others have achieved their ideal weights and had increased energy levels since being switched to this recipe.

Overall, pet parents love the high-quality ingredients that go into each bag of this Sojos formula. They also feel that they get more value for their money, as each pound of this food makes up to 5 pounds worth of meals.

If you are looking for dog food that would give your pup the benefits of a raw diet, but is easy to prepare and is also gluten, chicken, and pea-free, this freeze-dried recipe is definitely worth trying.

2. Sojos Complete Turkey Recipe

First 5 ingredients: Turkey, Sweet Potatoes, Whole Egg, Broccoli, Apples

Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars

This is a grain-free formula suitable for adult pups of all breeds and sizes.

Made of raw, wholesome ingredients, this recipe minimally processed to ensure maximum nutrient retention. Made in small batches, this turkey recipe offers a fresh, homemade taste that dogs can enjoy every day, and pet parents can easily prepare.

The main source of protein in this recipe is fresh turkey. At 28, this recipe has a higher protein content compared to the beef and pork formulas of the brand.

Turkey offers a lean protein source that is rich in amino acids, riboflavin, and phosphorus. Whole egg and turkey liver add even more protein to this dog food to help dogs maintain strong and lean muscles.

Like the beef recipe from Sojos, the main carb source in this recipe are also sweet potatoes. The tasty complex carb source is high in fiber, beta carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron. Like sweet potatoes, apples are also high in vitamins A and C and add even more nutritional value to this tasty meal.

This recipe also has broccoli, which is low in fat, but high in fiber and vitamin C. Fiber aids digestion by helping food move along the digestive tract. It also helps improve dogs’ stool quality.

As turkey can be quite lean, the inclusion of flaxseed adds more essential fatty acids and fiber to this formula. Packed with both omega3 and 6 fatty acids, flaxseeds contain lignans that help improve cardiovascular health. They have anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve symptoms of arthritis, lower blood pressure, and improve kidney function. They also promote healthy skin and coats in dogs.

All of the ingredients in this recipe are non-GMO and carefully selected for their natural nutritional value. It is also fortified with vitamins and minerals to ensure that dogs get their nutritional requirements in every meal. No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are used in this recipe.

According to feedback from pet parents who purchased this freeze-dried raw food, many of them are quite pleased with the product. Aside from the high-quality ingredients listed on the package, they love that the food is made of visibly real and whole foods. When prepared, the food does not turn into a paste or mush. There are chunks of meat and veggies that dogs can chew.

Some sensitive pets who were previously suffering from allergies have also found relief since being switched to this food. As turkey is the only animal meat protein in the recipe (whole egg is also included in this food), pet parents of several sensitive pups have reported a big improvement in their dogs’ skin and coat quality.

However, one pet parent observed that compared to a more expensive brand of freeze-dried raw food she previously buys, this recipe seems to have increased the amount of her dog’s stools. She attributes it to the sweet potatoes in this formula.

Overall, most pet owners find good value in this formula compared to similar products from other brands. They also love that it is pea and lentil-free, which can be quite common in grain-free freeze-dried dog foods.

3. Complete Turkey & Salmon Senior Recipe

First 5 ingredients: Turkey, Sweet Potatoes, Cranberries, Flaxseed, Whole Egg

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Another grain-free freeze-dried raw food specially made for the unique nutritional needs of older pups of all breeds and sizes.

It is free from grains, gluten, peas, lentils, and chicken protein. Made of only freeze-dried high-quality USDA-approved meat, and air-dried fruits and vegetables, your senior pup is sure to get raw nutrition to keep him healthy and happy in his golden years.

This recipe for seniors’ main protein source is turkey. Turkey offers lean meat that is palatable to dogs and can be easily digested. It is packed with proteins that help aging dogs maintain a lean and strong muscle mass.

Whole egg, turkey liver, and salmon are included as additional sources of protein. Turkey liver is full of flavor and adds a different yet even richer texture to this healthy turkey dinner for dogs.

Whole eggs are high in amino acids required by dogs for good health. They are also rich in iron, selenium, and vitamins A, B2, and B12. Salmon is full of flavor and multiple health benefits.

Aside from being highly digestible, salmon is naturally packed with omega 3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help protect the heart, improve the skin condition of dogs suffering from allergies, promote healthy joints, improve cognitive function, and even help prevent kidney diseases.

Sweet potatoes are the main source of carbs in this formula. Compared to corn, wheat, or soy, sweet potatoes offer more nutrients and are much easier to digest, especially for older, more sensitive stomachs. It is high in vitamins A, B6, C, calcium, potassium, and iron.

Cranberries are superfoods that are rich in antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system, and protect it against free radicals.

These tasty berries can even help fight cancer in dogs. High in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, cranberries help lower the risk for developing heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and certain gastrointestinal diseases. Their antibacterial properties can help improve dogs’ bladder health, reduce tartar and plaque buildup.

Older pups need all the help they can get to live healthy and happy lives. This is why another superfood is added to this already nutrient-dense recipe. This Sojos complete food also has coconuts. They are rich in lauric acid which helps fight off viruses and infections. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce symptoms of arthritis in older pups.

Other nutrient-dense wholefoods are also included in this senior recipe, such as apples, flaxseeds, carrots, celery, dried kelp, and others. To make sure that senior dogs’ nutritional needs are met with every meal, this formula is enriched with vitamins and minerals. It has calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth, and glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate to support joint health.

Only non-GMO meats, fruits, and vegetables are used in this dog food. No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are included. The ingredients are minimally processed to ensure maximum nutrient retention while killing harmful bacteria.

This freeze-dried raw food has been proven to be quite popular among picky senior pups. It is quite common for older dogs to become pickier with food when they reach their senior years. This is why palatability plays an important role in keeping them healthy and protected from diseases.

According to their owners, the pups just loved the turkey and salmon recipe. They get excited about mealtimes, and many have shown high energy levels after having their meals. One owner even credits this formula for helping her dog get rid of recurring infections that the poor pup has had for some time.

While it can be quite pricey compared to standard kibble, pet parents find good value in this meal for its high-quality ingredients and multiple health benefits. They also find that a bag of this recipe has more chunks of meat than they expected.

4. Complete Lamb Recipe

First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Sweet Potatoes, Whole Egg, Broccoli, Yellow Split Peas

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

This is a grain-free freeze-dried raw meal formulated for the nutritional needs of adult dogs of all breeds and sizes.

This shelf-stable freeze-dried raw food has large servings of real meat and air-dried nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables. Like other complete meals from the brand, this lamb recipe can be served on its own or as a kibble-topper after rehydrating with some warm water. A 7 lb bag of this lamb recipe can make up to 40 lbs of dog food when rehydrated.

Lamb is the star of this nutritious dish made just for dogs. It is a flavorful protein source that many consider healthier than beef due to the fact that they are typically raised in healthier environments. Lamb is commonly free-range and fed on pasture. Their meat is high in vitamins B12 and B3; omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids; selenium and zinc.

Whole egg and lamb liver are included as supplementary sources of protein. Aside from protein, lamb liver is rich in vitamin A, which promotes healthy coat, muscles, nerves, skin, and vision. It also has omega fatty acids, iron, copper, and niacin.

Iron and copper are needed for a healthy red blood cell life cycle, while niacin plays an important role in promoting healthy skin and fur, as well as proper circulation of blood and oxygen throughout the body.

The main source of carbs in this formula is the highly digestible sweet potato, followed by broccoli and yellow split peas. Sweet potatoes are low in fat and high in vitamins A, B6, C, calcium, potassium, and iron. It is also rich in fiber that helps improve dogs’ digestion.

Peas are high in vitamins A, K, and B vitamins. They have minerals such as iron, zinc, potassium, and magnesium. They contribute to the protein and fiber content of the food as well. Peas have lutein, an antioxidant that promotes a healthy heart, skin, and eye function.

However, according to the American Kennel Club, dogs with kidney conditions should not be given peas, as they have purines which contribute to increased uric acid levels. Too much uric acid can lead to kidney stones or other kidney conditions.

Flaxseeds provide omega fatty acids as well as protein and fiber to this healthy dish. This superfood contains lignans, which not only help improve dogs’ heart function but also helps fight canine cancer. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve symptoms of allergies and arthritis, lower blood pressure, and improve kidney function.

It also has bananas, which not all of the brand’s complete meals have. Bananas are loaded with potassium, and vitamin C. It also has vitamin B6, manganese, biotin, magnesium, and copper. It can help improve dogs’ digestion as well, not to mention it is quite a tasty fruit that many dogs enjoy.

This lamb recipe has fenugreek seeds. On their own, fenugreek seeds act as a natural appetite stimulant and are helpful for dogs with poor appetites.

Like all Sojos recipes, no GMO ingredients are used in this recipe. It has only high-quality animal ingredients, as well as naturally nutritious fruits and vegetables. No unnamed animal ingredients or by-product meals are used. It is free from grain, gluten, and chicken protein, as well as artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

This product has received mixed reviews from pet parents. Some dogs just love this lamb recipe and scarf down their food. However, some pups don’t seem to be fans of this particular recipe. One pet parent found that it is too powdery for his liking.

However, it has also received great feedback on how it has helped improve dogs’ overall health. The owner of a diabetic pup who was previously on a prescription diet credits this Sojos recipe with the significant improvement in the dog’s health. The pup’s fur has grown back and is quite healthy and no longer gray, and even put on a healthy amount of weight.

A lot of dogs with sensitive tummies seem to be doing quite well on this recipe, while a few have encountered digestive issues such as loose stools and had to be switched to a different dog food.

Overall, we feel that this recipe is worth trying, especially if you want a convenient way to give your dog the benefits of raw nutrition.

Every dog is different and has different needs. It is important to determine what your pup needs, as well as the flavors that he likes when selecting new food.

5. Sojos Complete Chicken Recipe 

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Yellow Split Peas, Whole Egg, Parsnips, Cranberries

Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

This grain-free complete food is tailored for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. This shelf-stable recipe is slightly higher in protein than the brand’s other adult formulas at 28%. This grain and gluten-free formula is also potato-free.

Chicken is one of the most popular protein sources among dogs. They love the meaty flavors that chicken gives to their meals. Chicken fans are sure to love this recipe as it is the most plentiful ingredient in this dog food.

Aside from being tasty, it is also a highly digestible protein source that is high in vitamins B3 and B6, as well as phosphorus and selenium.

Unlike their other recipes, this chicken formula has no liver in it. Whole egg serves as an additional protein source. They have all the amino acids required by dogs to help them keep a lean and strong muscle mass. Eggs are also high in iron, selenium, and vitamins A, B2, and B12.

Yellow split peas are the main source of carbs in this recipe. Peas are a good source of nutrients such as vitamins A, K, and B vitamins. The protein-rich veggies are also loaded with minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, and magnesium.

They also have fiber which helps dogs feel full, and aids digestion by helping food move along the digestive tract. Peas have lutein which is an antioxidant good for skin, heart, and eye health.

Parsnip is one of the wholesome produce included in this recipe. Parsnips have vitamins C and B6, as well as folic acid and potassium. They are good for dogs’ metabolism and support a healthy nervous system.

Superfood cranberries are also included in this chicken recipe. Aside from being quite tasty, cranberries are high in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.

Its fiber content helps lower the risk for developing heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and certain gastrointestinal diseases. They can also help promote a healthy bladder function, reduce tartar and plaque buildup, fight bacteria, and help prevent cancer.

Another superfood is added to this recipe for its fiber content and essential fatty acids. The highly nutritious flax seeds give dogs omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. They also have lignans, which can improve heart function and may even help fight cancer. They help reduce symptoms of arthritis, lower blood pressure, improve kidney function, and promote healthy skin and lustrous coats.

This dehydrated food combines the many health benefits of a raw diet with the convenience of kibble. No need to peel and chop fruits, veggies, and chunks of raw meat. Simply scoop into your dog’s bowl, rehydrate with warm water, wait about 15 minutes, and serve to your pup.

No genetically engineered ingredients are used in this recipe. Made in small batches, this food contains only freeze-dried, high-quality raw chicken and air-dried fruits and vegetables. The minimal processing kills all of the harmful bacteria, without cooking off most of the ingredients’ natural nutrients.

Dogs seem to really enjoy this freeze-dried raw chicken recipe. According to pet parents, it has even passed the strict standards of some of the fussiest pups. They also like the meaty texture after it is rehydrated.

According to feedback from dog owners, this recipe seems to have helped improve the health of a lot of dogs. Some overweight dogs were able to achieve their target weights with this recipe. The skin and coat quality of the dogs also improved. Their coats are glossier than before they were switched to this recipe.

Dogs with sensitive stomachs are also able to keep this food down without upsetting their tummies. However, some pet parents find it a bit too costly.

If you are looking to put your pup on a protein-rich, potato-free, raw diet, Sojos Complete Chicken Recipe is worth trying. It has a very healthy list of ingredients and is quite convenient to prepare.

6. Mix-A-Meal Fruit & Veggie Pre-Mix

First 5 ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Apples, Whole Egg, Cranberries

Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars

This is a zero grain pre-mix that can be used as a base for raw or homemade meals for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and life stages. It is made of wholesome grains instead of fillers with low nutritional value.

Pet parents can simply scoop this pre-mix into their pups’ bowls, add their preferred protein source, let soak in warm water to rehydrate, and a complete and nutritious meal is ready for their pup in just 15 minutes. No need to chop multiple fruits and veggies, or cook separate batches of grains.

Instead of corn, wheat, or soy, this pre-mix has grains such as oat flakes, rye flakes, and barley flakes. According to Best Pets Vet, whole grains are proven to be much healthier, as the milling required to produce refined grains removes many of their natural nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, and fiber.

Carrot flakes and dried kelp are included in this pre-mix for their high nutritional value. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system against disease and infection. It promotes healthy skin, coat, and bone development. It also supports dogs’ reproductive health, general eye health, and cancer prevention.

Kelp is one of the most nutritious natural ingredients for dogs. It has 60 different vitamins, minerals, and trace elements as well as 21 amino acids. It is a natural source of numerous growth hormones. Kelp is high in iodine which helps support dogs’ glandular system and metabolism.

High in iron, this superfood for dogs fortifies the blood, which then helps the heart to pump more efficiently. Kelp helps cleanse the digestive system and has amino acids that help aid tissue repair. This promotes faster wound healing.

This shelf-stable pre-mix is fortified with vitamins and minerals, so you need only add your pup’s favorite meat to give him or her a nutritionally complete and balanced meal. This allows for a completely customizable meal that is ideal for very picky dogs, or those who require some variety in their daily meals.

Only non-GMO ingredients go into every bag of Sojos Mix-A-Meal. It is free from artificial enhancers such as flavors, colors, or preservatives. Every pound of this pre-mix can make up to 5 pounds of dog food when rehydrated.

Pet parents love the versatility that this premix offers. They are able to switch up their dogs’ meals on a daily basis with very little effort. The dogs seem to love the variety, and gobble up the nutritious food.

As it is high in fiber from the wholesome grains, using this pre-mix has helped improve the digestion and stool quality of many dogs. According to some pet parents, they have even noticed an increase in the energy levels of the pups since being fed meals with this pre-mix recipe as the base.

However, a few dog owners find that the grains take longer to rehydrate to the consistency that they prefer, which results in a soupy meal that their pups don’t enjoy.

If you prefer to customize your pet’s daily meals but do not have the time to prepare everything from scratch, Sojos Mix-A-Meal Original Recipe Pre-Mix Food is a great way to make life easier. It is shelf-stable, easy to prepare, and your dog can get a different protein for lunch and another for dinner.

What Types Of Dog Foods Do They Offer?

Sojos foods come in pouches with freeze-dried raw foods. The recipes are easy to make. You just add water, and it becomes a hearty meal that your dogs will love.

The company also makes some meal additives if your dog likes kibble but needs something more, but most of their energy is focused on ready to serve meal pouches.

Sojos Complete

This is the company’s original dog food recipes in convenient pouches. They come in a few different life stages and recipes that should satisfy even picky eaters. Each one is formulated using only premium ingredients in recipes created in Sojos test kitchens.

• Complete Puppy Turkey and Salmon
• Complete Senior Turkey and Salmon
• Complete Dog Food Turkey
• Complete Dog Food Beef
• Complete Dog Food Lamb
• Complete Dog Food Goat
• Complete Dog Food Chicken
• Complete Dog Food Pork

Sojos Wild

These recipes really consider how your dog’s canine ancestors would have eaten. It offers plenty of quality protein with balanced carbohydrates plus vitamins and minerals. It comes in the same convenient pouches as the original recipes.

• Wild Salmon
• Wild Boar
• Wild Venison

Mix-A-Meals

These base mixes and meal toppers are suitable for intermittent feeding or for mixing with other ingredients to help make raw food easier. Talk to your veterinarian about how to use the pouches to supplement your dog’s homemade diet.

• Freeze Dried Turkey
• Freeze Dried Lamb
• Freeze Dried Beef
• Freeze Dried Chicken
• Pre-Mixes (grain free and original) for a base

 

Recall History

Sojos has never had a recall, which is an excellent record considering that the company has been in business for about 30 years.

They’ve made the recipes in the same, clean test kitchens that have wowed customers for decades and all their foods come from the highest safety standards, including ingredients sourced from the United States and other trusted partners (never China).

Customer Reviews

A food that makes raw diets simple? People love it as expected. Most people are thrilled that the recipes are easy to store and don’t involve chopping up bits of meat and offal. It comes in resealable bags and is shelf stable until water is added.

The food rates consistently at around four stars or better for almost all recipes including the mix-a-meals. Although it’s on the pricier side, those who have the budget for it tend to love what it does to their dog’s health.

What Do People Like And Dislike About Sojos Dog Food?

Sojos food has more than its share of fans. They love the way their dogs eat the food with no issues and no pickiness. The sheer convenience of freeze-dried packages is usually enough to convince anyone to switch to a raw diet and can help busy families who just don’t have the time to make their own homemade recipes.

Dislikes typically revolve around the price. When something is in this price tier, sometimes people expect perfection and with good reason. Not every dog will react as well as the average dog, and some complaints included loose stools from coconut oil and excess gas. If this is the first time you’ve fed your dog raw, you may want to mix in your dog’s current kibble to transition more slowly.

Some of the recipes contain peas, so be sure you check with your vet if your dog is a breed prone to enlarged heart disease. There may be a link between foods heavy in peas, legumes, and potatoes and a condition known as Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

Positive

• “So glad I found Sojos Wild. This is an excellent food with high quality ingredients that won't break the bank. Our 2 toy fox terrier crosses and chihuahua all love this food, and they lick their bowls clean every time. I appreciate the ease and convenience of this food, though I wish the prep time was 5 versus 15 minutes. My dogs whine and carry on the entire time, lol! Two enthusiastic paws up for Sojos Wild!” HollyM64, chewy.com

Negative

• “I was hoping that my dogs would like this food- I made it per the directions on the back of the bag and gave it to them. They both sniffed at it and then walked away. They wouldn't even come near it. While the food looked good, I cannot recommend it.” lhasamom, chewy.com

Our Final Say

Sojos offers a unique approach to canine nutrition with its raw, freeze-dried formulas that provide the benefits of a raw diet without the hassle of preparation.

The brand emphasizes high-quality, natural ingredients, including real meats and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. This makes Sojos an appealing option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a more natural, minimally processed diet.

However, while they deliver quality nutrition, it can be more expensive than traditional kibble and may require additional prep time, such as rehydrating the food.

Some dogs may take time to adjust to the texture of freeze-dried food. Overall, it is a great choice for those looking to incorporate raw feeding into their dog's diet, but it might not be the most convenient or cost-effective option for all pet owners.