Tucker’s Raw Pet Food is a store favorite for raw brands. Why? Tucker’s brings together scientific research, a commitment to natural, biologically appropriate diets, and value into their authentic family-run company. Tucker’s is actually named after the family’s beloved dog, Tucker. They’ve been sourcing and making their own raw and freeze-dried pet foods – as well as bones and treats (and now cat food too) – in Wisconsin since 2009.
95/5 Diet Formulation
Tucker’s collaborated with three of the world’s ten PhD Zoological Nutritionists to formulate their unique 95/5 raw formulas: 95% meat, organ, bone, and marrow, and 5% pumpkin.
Balanced Nutritional Composition
- Muscle Meat (78-82%): Provides essential proteins and amino acids necessary for muscle development and overall health
- Organ Meat (10-12%): Rich in vital nutrients like vitamins A and B, iron, and other minerals that support metabolic functions
- Bone Content (3-7%): Offers a natural source of calcium and phosphorus, crucial for bone health and dental integrity
- Pumpkin (5%): A highly nutritious low-glycemic fiber source that aids in digestion and is particularly beneficial during dietary transitions
Enhanced Nutrient Absorption Through Emulsification 
Understanding that the digestive transit time in pets is relatively short, Tucker’s employs a unique emulsification process. Unlike standard grinding methods, emulsification purees the ingredients into finer particles, increasing the surface area available for digestion. This technique enhances digestion and nutrient absorption, ensuring our animals receive maximum benefits from their meals.
Commitment to Quality and Safety
All Tucker’s products are made in their USDA-certified facility in Wisconsin, using human-grade meats sourced exclusively from the USA.
HPP and non-HPP Formulas
Increasingly, HPP, or High Pressure Processing, is being incorporated as a kill step in the manufacturing of raw pet food. Traditionally, the main reason for HPP has been for safer human handling of raw meat, and for customers to feel more comfortable feeding raw. HPP kills pathogens like Listeria, E. Coli and Salmonella – which though not usually a problem for healthy pets (exceptions include those with compromised immune systems), can make humans very sick. HPP also inactivates H5N1 (avian or bird flu), so chances are we will see HPP used more and more.
Not every raw feeder is a fan of HPP though. Not only does HPP kill pathogens, it also kills ‘good’ bacteria, and alters the cellular composition of the food. It can inactivate some enzymes and denature proteins, reducing the natural probiotic benefit and absorption rate of raw food. Many pet parents compensate for that by adding probiotics to the bowl.
Formulas using HPP:
- Beef Pumpkin
- Turkey Pumpkin
- Chicken Pumpkin
- Turf & Surf
- Pork Duck Pumpkin
Formulas without HPP:
(Pork and salmon are deep-frozen at minus 30 degrees fahrenheit for 3-7 days to kill any potentia parasites)
- Pork Bison Pumpkin
- Pork Lamb Pumpkin
- Pork Beef Pumpkin
- Salmon Pumpkin
Value
You can feed Tucker’s complete raw diets for as little as about $5/lb (20lb chicken). Smaller bags are priced at about $6-7/lb. That’s anywhere from 10-50% cheaper than competing brands.
Product Offerings and Feeding Guidelines
Tucker’s provides a range of products, including raw frozen diets, freeze-dried diets, and raw frozen bones. Each product is designed with convenience and pet health in mind:
- Raw Frozen Diets: Individually vacuum-sealed patties in 8oz or 16oz for freshness and ease of portioning. To serve, thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight and use within 3-5 days
- Freeze-Dried Diets: Rehydrate by crumbling and adding bone broth, goat milk or water. Shelf-stable and lightweight – perfect for travel
- Raw Frozen Bones: Multiple formats, proteins and sizes. Bones can be substituted for a meal or given as a treat. Great for mental stimulation and dental benefits