Costco Raw Dog Food vs. Local Quality: What’s Really in Your Bowl?

If you’re shopping for raw dog food at Costco, here’s what you need to know before you buy

Costco is known for convenience, bulk pricing, and decent quality especially when it comes to feeding your family. But when it comes to feeding your dog a raw diet, are you getting what you think you’re paying for?

Whether you’re new to raw feeding or trying to save money on your pet’s nutrition, you might be comparing options like Canino or other frozen raw food found at Costco with what local pet suppliers offer. At first glance, the savings seem obvious. But what about ingredient transparency, local sourcing, nutritional balance, and the freshness of what’s in that bulk pack?

This page will walk you through the differences between Costco raw dog food and what we offer here at Raw Fed & Furry, a dedicated raw food supplier based right here in Ottawa. We’ll explain what matters, what you may not know, and how to get affordable, transparent, high-quality raw meals for your dog without compromise.

What’s Actually in That Costco Raw Dog Food?

Why ingredient transparency matters more than you think

One of the top concerns we hear from customers switching from Costco to Raw Fed & Furry is this: I want to know exactly what I’m feeding my dog.

Costco brands often list ingredients in bulk categories “meat by-products,” “animal protein,” or “poultry blend.” The challenge is, you don’t always know what part of the animal is used, where it came from, or whether it's fresh, frozen, cooked, or rendered.

At Raw Fed & Furry, we do things differently:

• We list every single ingredient—including the specific cuts, organs, and supplements used.

• All our meats are human-grade, locally or regionally sourced, and ethically handled.

• We use no artificial preservatives, fillers, or synthetics ever.
  

If you’re feeding raw food for health reasons like allergies, coat quality, or digestion—you need full transparency to avoid unknown triggers and to make informed choices. That’s why we prioritize full disclosure, simple ingredients, and formulas that you can actually understand.

Freshness and Food Safety: The Hidden Trade-Off

Why thawing, storing, and serving raw food isn’t one-size-fits-all

Buying raw food in bulk from a warehouse sounds like a good idea until you thaw that first pack and start questioning:

• Is this still fresh?

• Why does it smell off?

• Why is the color grey?
  

These are common concerns we hear from customers who try Costco’s frozen raw options.

At Raw Fed & Furry, we focus on cold-chain integrity, packaging designed for freshness, and guidance for safe thawing and storage at home. Our products are:

• Individually portioned to reduce waste and prevent contamination.

• Vacuum-sealed for freshness and minimal freezer burn.

• Backed by strict safety handling practices, with locally controlled logistics.
  

You don’t have to worry about defrosting a 5-pound block of meat or wasting product because it spoils too quickly. We make raw feeding not just accessible but manageable for everyday pet parents.

Low-Cost Raw Dog Food in Ottawa That Doesn’t Cut Corners

Comparing cost per serving—without sacrificing quality

Let’s talk about price.

One of the biggest reasons pet parents try Costco raw dog food is the cost advantage. But when you break it down by:

• Nutritional density

• Ingredient quality

• Actual yield per package
  

the value doesn’t always hold up.

For example, a Costco frozen raw bag might cost less upfront, but if it contains more moisture, less meat content, or filler ingredients, you’re not getting as much real nutrition per dollar. Plus, if your dog has digestive issues or allergies, the vet bills can easily offset any savings.

At Raw Fed & Furry, we work hard to keep pricing competitive for Ottawa-area pet owners without sacrificing the things that matter:

• Affordable monthly bundles tailored to your dog’s size and needs.
  

• Transparent pricing per pound, so you always know what you’re paying for.
  

• Exclusive multi-buy and loyalty discounts for local customers.
  

• No hidden fees just real food at real value.
  

When you compare total cost vs total benefit, we help you come out ahead.

Transitioning to Raw Shouldn’t Be a Guessing Game

Local support, clear feeding guides, and help when you need it

Many pet owners are hesitant to switch to raw because they’re unsure how to do it safely. Costco may offer raw food options, but it doesn’t provide guidance or personalized feeding plans.

At Raw Fed & Furry, education is a big part of what we do. Whether you’re switching from kibble, wet food, or another raw brand, we give you:

• Simple feeding calculators and starter guides
  

• One-on-one support from our team (in person or by email)
  

• Resources for picky eaters, puppies, seniors, and dogs with sensitivities
  

We also carry limited-ingredient, single-protein options for elimination diets, making the transition easier if your dog has allergies or a sensitive stomach.

When your dog's health is on the line, you want more than a frozen patty you want a plan and a partner.

Why More Pet Owners in Ottawa Are Switching from Costco to Raw Fed & Furry

It’s not just about better food—it’s about a better experience

At the end of the day, what we offer is peace of mind. As a local business based right here in Orleans, we’re not a warehouse. We’re a dedicated raw food shop focused 100% on your dog’s nutrition.

• Pickup or local delivery options available throughout Ottawa and surrounding areas
  

• A team of knowledgeable staff who feed raw themselves
  

• A curated selection of locally trusted brands that we personally vet
  

• We’re here when Costco is out of stock or when you need answers that a cashier just can’t give
  

We’ve helped hundreds of dog owners in Ottawa make the switch to smarter raw feeding and we’re here to help you do the same.

Visit Us or Get in Touch

Raw Fed & Furry

5929 Jeanne D'arc Blvd S Unit 9Orleans, ON, Canada K1C 2N1 (343) 883-1818 thatsrawsome@gmail.com rawfedandfurry.ca

Open Wed–Fri 12–6pm, Sat–Sun 12–4pmWalk-ins welcome, or call ahead for orders.

Ready to Try a Better Raw?

Switching from Costco doesn’t mean giving up convenience. It means gaining control, quality, and support all from a trusted Ottawa local.

Let’s build a better bowl for your best friend. Visit Us Online or Get in Touch Today.

Make the Switch to Better Raw—Without Breaking the Bank

Your dog deserves food that’s as clean, fresh, and trustworthy as what you eat. Stop guessing with bulk-pack raw options and get personalized guidance, premium quality, and real support from Ottawa’s local raw food experts.

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