Quick Summary (TL;DR)
- What it is: A freeze-dried, meat-first dog food focused on minimally processed ingredients.
- Best for: Picky eaters, small to medium dogs, seniors, and dogs with sensitive digestion who do well on grain-free formulas.
- Why consider it: Strong palatability, raw-style nutrition without handling raw meat, convenient storage, and versatile use as a complete meal or topper.
- Watch outs: Premium price (especially for large dogs fed 100%), texture change may require a gradual transition.
What Is Nature’s Blend?
Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend is a freeze-dried raw formula designed to retain nutrients by removing moisture at low temperatures. It’s typically built around animal proteins and organs (e.g., beef, turkey, salmon, duck) plus fruits, vegetables, and seeds for fiber and antioxidants—while avoiding common fillers and artificial preservatives.
Ingredient Highlights
- Meat & Organ Meats: High-quality protein and natural micronutrients (amino acids, iron, B-vitamins).
- Fruits & Vegetables: Often includes sweet potato, carrots, apples, blueberries, spinach for phytonutrients.
- Functional Seeds: Pumpkin seed, flaxseed—support digestion, skin, and coat.
- Typically Grain-Free: Suits many dogs with grain sensitivities (always check the current label).
Why Freeze-Dried Matters
Freeze-drying removes moisture without high heat, helping preserve heat-sensitive nutrients and flavor. You get the benefits many associate with raw feeding—high protein, low processing, and excellent palatability—with pantry convenience. Most dogs accept the texture well; rehydrating with warm water boosts aroma and is gentler on teeth.
Dr. Marty’s vs. Other Premium Formats
| Feature | Freeze-Dried (Nature’s Blend) | Air-Dried | Baked/Extruded (Kibble) |
| Processing | Minimal, low-temp moisture removal | Low/medium heat drying | Higher heat; more processed |
| Texture | Light, crumbly; rehydrate as needed | Chewy, jerky-like | Hard, crunchy |
| Nutrient Retention | Generally high | High–moderate | Moderate |
| Convenience | Very high; shelf stable | High | Very high |
| Cost | Premium | Premium–mid | Budget–mid |
Takeaway: Nature’s Blend positions itself at the less-processed, high-palatability end of the spectrum—ideal for dogs that turn up their nose at standard kibble.
Who It’s Great For (and When to Reconsider)
Great for:
- Picky eaters who ignore kibble
- Senior dogs or small breeds who thrive on nutrient-dense portions
- Sensitive stomachs that prefer shorter, filler-free ingredient lists
- Pet parents who want raw-style nutrition with pantry storage
Think twice if:
- You’re feeding very large or multiple dogs 100% freeze-dried on a tight budget → consider topper use to control costs.
- Your dog has specific medical conditions → consult your veterinarian and review the latest guaranteed analysis and ingredient panel.
Real-World Pros & Cons
Pros
- Meat-first, minimally processed profile
- Excellent palatability (often finishes the bowl)
- Easy to portion, store, and travel with
- Works as a full meal or topper to upgrade existing diets
Cons
- Premium price—cost per day can be high for medium/large dogs
- Texture shift vs. kibble may require a slow transition
- Grain-free won’t be ideal for every dog (always personalize to your pet)
Transition Plan (Reduce Tummy Upsets)
Switching too fast can lead to soft stools or gas. Try a 7–10 day transition and extend if needed:
- Days 1–3: 25% new / 75% old
- Days 4–6: 50% new / 50% old
- Days 7–9: 75% new / 25% old
- Day 10+: 100% Nature’s Blend
Tips:
- Rehydrate with warm water (enhances aroma and hydration).
- Keep portions measured; watch stool quality, appetite, energy.
- Slow down if you see persistent digestive signs; consult your vet for ongoing issues.
Feeding & Cost Tips
- Serving style: Feed as-is (crunchy) or rehydrated (softer). Many dogs prefer rehydrated for aroma and mouthfeel.
- Topper strategy: Start at 10–25% of the bowl to boost palatability and nutrition without going 100% freeze-dried—a smart budget play for bigger dogs.
- Daily cost check:
- Note your dog’s weight and activity.
- Use the bag’s feeding guide to estimate grams/day.
- Calculate cost per day = (bag price ÷ total grams) × grams/day.
- Compare 100% feeding vs. topper feeding (e.g., 25–50% Nature’s Blend).
- Note your dog’s weight and activity.
Nutrition Snapshot (Typical Expectations)
While nutrition varies by recipe and batch, freeze-dried formulas generally trend high protein, moderate fat, low fiber, and low moisture (until you add water). Always check the current guaranteed analysis and ingredient list on your bag and adjust feeding to body condition (BCS), not just the chart.
Common Add-Ons for Sensitive Dogs
- Pumpkin (fiber), probiotics, or goat’s milk can smooth transitions.
- Omega-3s (fish oil) can support skin/coat if needed.
Palatability & Digestibility: What Owners Report
Frequently reported positives
- Picky dogs eat reliably
- Smaller, firmer stools once fully transitioned
- Coat sheen and energy often improve
Occasional concerns
- Sticker shock on cost at full feeding
- Dogs unfamiliar with the texture may need rehydration and a slower ramp-up
- As with any new food, a few weeks of adjustment is normal
How It Compares (At a Glance)
- Vs. basic kibble: Higher palatability, less processed; costs more.
- Vs. air-dried: Similar convenience; freeze-dried is lighter and typically rehydrated; both are premium.
- Vs. raw at home: Cleaner, simpler handling; costs more than DIY but far easier day-to-day.
Buyer’s Checklist
- ✅ Start with a small bag to confirm appetite and tolerance
- ✅ Rehydrate (especially for seniors or dental-sensitive dogs)
- ✅ Keep a transition log (stool, itchiness, energy) for 2–3 weeks
- ✅ Re-check the label for the exact recipe’s analysis and feeding guide
- ✅ Consider the topper approach to balance nutrition and budget
FAQs
Is Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend grain-free?
Typically yes, but always verify the latest label for your chosen recipe.
Do I have to add water?
No, but adding warm water improves aroma, digestibility, and hydration—recommended for most dogs.
Topper or complete meal?
Either. Many owners use it as a topper (10–50%) to elevate taste and nutrition while controlling cost.
Can puppies eat it?
Check if the specific recipe meets AAFCO growth or all life stages standards. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.
What if my dog has allergies?
Review the full ingredient list and introduce slowly. For complex medical histories, ask your vet before switching.
How do I store it?
Keep sealed, in a cool, dry place. Avoid humidity. Use within the recommended time after opening.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a convenient, meat-first, minimally processed upgrade, Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend is a strong contender—especially for picky eaters and small to medium dogs. For larger dogs or multi-pet homes, using it as a topper can deliver noticeable benefits while keeping costs reasonable. As with any premium diet, monitor your dog’s response and adjust based on body condition, energy, and stool quality.
