When I started looking for better options for my dog’s meals, I wanted something natural and nutritious. I spent a lot of time researching brands and ingredients.
One name kept popping up, so I had to try it myself. So, is Stella and Chewy good dog food? From my experience, it offers high-quality ingredients and a raw-inspired diet that many dogs seem to love.
I found it to be nutrient-dense and made with real meats. In this post, I’ll share my honest thoughts and what you should know before feeding Stella and Chewy to your dog.
What Is Stella & Chewy’s?
Stella & Chewy’s, founded in 2003 by Marie Moody, offers premium pet food inspired by the benefits of a raw diet.
Specializing in raw and minimally processed options, their products include freeze-dried, frozen raw, kibble, wet food, and treats.
Made in Wisconsin with responsibly sourced ingredients, they use HPP to preserve nutrition and support pets’ natural, ancestral diets.
Is Stella And Chewy Good Dog Food?
Stella & Chewy’s is generally considered a good dog food brand, known for using high-quality, natural ingredients with a focus on raw and minimally processed nutrition.
Many of their products are grain-free and include real meat, fruits, and vegetables without artificial additives.
Pet owners often choose this brand for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. However, as with any pet food, it’s best to consult your vet to see if it meets your dog’s specific dietary needs.
Features of Stella & Chewy’s Dog Food
1. Raw and Minimally Processed Ingredients
Stella & Chewy’s specializes in raw feeding, which many believe more closely mimics a dog’s ancestral diet. Their raw meals are either freeze-dried or frozen to preserve nutrients and eliminate the need for high-heat processing.
2. High Protein Content
Most Stella & Chewy’s products are protein-rich, using high-quality meats like chicken, beef, lamb, and salmon as the primary ingredients. Organ meats and ground bone are also included in many formulas, which adds to the nutritional value.
3. Grain-Free and Limited Ingredient Options
Many of their recipes are grain-free, and some are labeled as limited ingredient diets (LID), which are ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
4. Organic Fruits and Vegetables
Their recipes also feature organic produce, including spinach, cranberries, carrots, and blueberries. These ingredients contribute to a more balanced diet by supplying fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
5. Supplements and Probiotics
To support digestive health, Stella & Chewy’s includes probiotics in many formulas. Their recipes also contain added vitamins and minerals to ensure a complete and balanced diet.
Nutritional Value of Stella & Chewy’s Products
Stella & Chewy’s focuses on biologically appropriate, nutrient-dense pet food. Their recipes are rich in high-quality animal proteins from grass-fed, cage-free, or wild-caught sources. Key nutritional highlights include:
- High Protein Content: Supports muscle development and energy.
- Natural Fats: Provide essential fatty acids for skin, coat, and brain health.
- Minimal Carbohydrates: Reduces fillers and mimics ancestral diets.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Sourced from organic fruits, vegetables, and supplements for overall wellness.
- Probiotics & Taurine: Added for digestive and heart health.
Their raw and gently processed foods aim to preserve maximum nutrients while ensuring safety through high-pressure processing (HPP).
Benefits of Feeding Stella & Chewy’s to Your Dog?
Pet parents and veterinarians alike highlight several benefits of feeding Stella & Chewy’s dog food:
◆ Improved Digestion: Many dogs experience better digestion and reduced stool volume thanks to highly digestible proteins and probiotics.
◆ Healthier Skin and Coat: Rich in fatty acids and free from artificial additives, the food helps maintain shiny fur and healthy skin.
◆ Increased Energy and Vitality: The biologically appropriate diet can boost energy, helping active dogs thrive.
◆ Appealing to Picky Eaters: Freeze-dried patties and raw meals are often more palatable to dogs reluctant to eat kibble.
Is Stella And Chewy Food Safe?
Yes, Stella & Chewy’s prioritizes food safety and has implemented several measures to ensure the safety of their products.
They have achieved SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification, which validates their rigorous food safety system from raw material selection to finished product shipment.
Additionally, they utilize high-pressure processing (HPP) to eliminate pathogens without using heat or irradiation, preserving nutrients and flavor. Every batch is tested for Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria before packaging.
What You Should Know Before Feeding Stella And Chewy?
Before feeding Stella and Chewy to your dog, there are a few important things you should know. First, the food is primarily raw or freeze-dried, which means it’s less processed but requires careful handling and proper storage to keep it fresh and safe.
Transitioning to this type of diet can take time, so introduce it slowly to avoid digestive upset. The food is high in protein, which is great for many dogs but may not suit pets with certain health issues like kidney problems.
Also, the cost is higher than typical kibble, so it’s an investment in quality. Lastly, always consult your vet before making any big diet changes.
Is Stella And Chewy Recommended By Vets?
Yes, Stella & Chewy’s is generally recommended by many veterinarians, especially those who support raw or raw-inspired diets for dogs.
Vets often appreciate the brand’s high-quality ingredients, transparency, and commitment to nutrition. However, some vets may advise caution or recommend consultation before switching to a raw diet, particularly for dogs with certain health conditions.
So while many vets endorse Stella & Chewy’s, it’s always best to discuss your dog’s specific needs with your own veterinarian.
How to Transition Your Dog to Stella & Chewy’s?
Switching your dog’s food abruptly can cause digestive upset, so it’s important to transition gradually over 7–10 days. Follow these simple steps:
- Days 1–3: Mix 25% Stella & Chewy’s with 75% of your dog’s current food.
- Days 4–6: Increase to a 50/50 mix of Stella & Chewy’s and current food.
- Days 7–9: Move to 75% Stella & Chewy’s and 25% current food.
- Day 10 onwards: Feed 100% Stella & Chewy’s.
During the transition, observe your dog for any signs of digestive upset such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
If symptoms occur, slow down the transition pace. Always provide plenty of fresh water and consult your veterinarian if you have concerns.
What Pet Parents Are Saying About Stella & Chewy’s Dog Food?
Pet parents have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about Stella & Chewy’s dog food, praising its high-quality ingredients and palatable flavors.
Many report improvements in their dogs’ energy levels, coat condition, and digestion after switching to the brand.
For instance, one reviewer noted that their dogs became more energetic, their fur became shinier, and a senior dog moved more easily after a month on Stella & Chewy’s.
Others appreciate the brand’s commitment to using responsibly sourced proteins and organic produce, aligning with natural feeding principles.
Some users also find the freeze-dried patties effective for enticing picky eaters. However, a few customers have mentioned that the product can be pricey and that some batches may vary in consistency.
FAQs about Stella & Chewy’s Dog Food
Is Stella & Chewy’s good for all dog breeds?
Stella & Chewy’s can work well for most dog breeds, but you should consider your dog’s specific dietary needs, age, and health conditions. Some large breeds or dogs with health issues might require tailored nutrition.
How do I transition my dog to Stella & Chewy’s food?
Start by mixing a small amount of Stella & Chewy’s with your dog’s current food. Gradually increase the new food over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.
Is Stella & Chewy’s grain-free?
Most Stella & Chewy’s recipes are grain-free, which is great for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.
Can I feed Stella & Chewy’s as a complete diet?
Yes, many Stella & Chewy’s products are formulated to be complete and balanced. Always check the packaging and consult your vet to ensure it meets your dog’s needs.
Is Stella & Chewy’s safe to feed raw?
Stella & Chewy’s uses high-pressure processing (HPP) to reduce pathogens, making their raw and freeze-dried products safer. However, raw diets do carry some risk, so proper handling and vet advice are important.
Final Verdict
Overall, Stella & Chewy’s offers a highly nutritious, biologically appropriate diet with premium ingredients and advanced processing techniques that many dogs thrive on.
It is especially well-suited for pet parents seeking natural, raw-inspired nutrition and those dealing with allergies or picky eaters.
However, it’s important to consider your dog’s individual health needs, budget, and vet recommendations before making the switch.
Hello dog lovers, I am John. Welcome to my website healthydogfoods.com. I am happy to gain experience from my love for my dog and my pet dog. Through my experience and acquaintance with dog veterinarians, I have made myself a proper guide for dogs. I will tell you about dog care, their nutritious food, their proper safety and dog upbringing for a better life. Even though dogs cannot talk like humans, I will solve all the problems by observing their behavior. I will discuss the proper care and related issues of your dog. Which will give you the right answer to all the problems of your beloved dog.