Boost your pup’s vitality the natural way
If you’ve got an energetic dog—or one that could use a little boost—feeding them the right foods can make all the difference. While a balanced raw diet provides the foundation, sometimes your pup needs that little something extra between meals to fuel their zoomies, training sessions, or mental enrichment time. That's where raw snacks for energy and focus come in.
At Canada Raw, we believe in nourishing pets the way nature intended—with real, raw, biologically appropriate food. So today, we’re sharing the top five raw snacks that support your dog’s energy levels and mental sharpness while keeping their tails wagging.
Why Choose Raw Snacks?
Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why raw snacks are a superior choice compared to processed treats:
They’re minimally processed – which means nutrients stay intact
They’re species-appropriate – designed to fuel your dog’s body the way nature intended
They’re cleaner – no fillers, no artificial preservatives, no weird ingredients
They support overall health – from coat quality to digestion and cognitive function
And unlike many store-bought “energy treats” that are loaded with carbs and sugar, raw snacks use natural proteins, fats, and essential nutrients to fuel your dog’s body and brain.
1. Raw Beef Heart Bites
Nature’s multivitamin for stamina and focus
Beef heart isn’t just muscle meat—it’s loaded with vitamins, minerals, and taurine, making it a powerhouse snack for active dogs. It contains a rich source of CoQ10, which helps support heart health and energy production at the cellular level.
Benefits:
High in protein for sustained energy
Contains B vitamins to support brain function
Rich in iron and zinc, boosting oxygen flow and focus
Naturally low in fat, making it a clean energy source
Best for:
Midday training sessions
Post-walk recovery
Dogs needing a stamina boost
2. Raw Duck Necks
Crunchy, satisfying, and packed with energy
Duck necks are one of those raw snacks that dogs love chewing on—and not just because they’re fun. They’re rich in protein, calcium, and essential fatty acids, making them excellent for both energy and joint support.
Benefits:
High-quality animal protein for fuel
Natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
Crunchy texture helps clean teeth and satisfy cravings
Contains healthy fats to keep your dog mentally sharp
Best for:
Busy days when your dog needs a little more fuel
Chewing enrichment
Senior dogs who need a focus-friendly treat without overexertion
3. Raw Sardines (Whole)
Omega-packed brain fuel in one small fish
Sardines are like the brain food of the canine world. These little fish may be small, but they’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and protein, all of which contribute to better focus, cognitive support, and energy metabolism.
Benefits:
Loaded with EPA and DHA for brain and nervous system health
Great for skin, coat, and inflammation
Rich in calcium and phosphorus from the bones
Easy to digest and great for dogs with sensitivities
Best for:
Mental enrichment meals (great in puzzle toys!)
Puppies and senior dogs
Dogs needing extra support with focus and inflammation
4. Raw Goat Milk Ice Cubes with Liver Bits
A hydrating and energizing treat packed with nutrients
This one’s a bit of a DIY raw snack, but it’s a favorite in raw feeding circles. Raw goat milk is full of natural enzymes, probiotics, and electrolytes—perfect for hydration and gut health—while raw liver bits provide an intense burst of energy and vitamins.
Benefits:
Goat milk supports gut health and immune function
Liver adds vitamin A, iron, and B vitamins
Hydrating and easy to digest
Can calm and focus dogs through gentle nutrition
Best for:
Hot days
Dogs recovering from activity or stress
Dogs with picky appetites
5. Raw Green Tripe Chunks
The unsung hero of raw energy snacks
Let’s be honest—green tripe doesn’t smell great, but dogs go wild for it. It’s packed with digestive enzymes, amino acids, and healthy bacteria. And it’s especially great for dogs who need a mental lift or an energy recharge.
Benefits:
Natural probiotics and digestive enzymes
Packed with amino acids to support muscle and brain function
Contains healthy fats for sustained energy
Highly palatable—even picky eaters love it
Best for:
Dogs who need a gut-friendly energy source
Recovery days when your pup needs a nutrient boost
Dogs prone to focus issues or anxiety
Choosing the Right Raw Snack for Your Dog
Every dog is different. Some need extra calories to stay energized, while others may need focus-friendly treats for training and stimulation. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best raw snack for your pup:
Size Matters
Choose appropriately sized treats. Small dogs may do better with bite-sized liver or sardine snacks, while larger dogs can handle things like duck necks or whole tripe chunks.
Timing Is Important
Use energy snacks before or after physical activity. Focus snacks work well before training or during mental enrichment sessions.
Balance Is Key
Snacks should complement—not replace—your dog’s balanced raw diet. Too much liver, for example, can throw off nutrient ratios.
Watch for Sensitivities
Introduce new proteins slowly and watch for any signs of allergies or digestive upset. Not all dogs tolerate all proteins equally.
How Often Should You Feed Raw Snacks?
Treat raw snacks like you would any other treat—just with higher nutritional value. For most dogs, 5–10% of their daily food intake can safely come from raw snacks or training treats.
Here’s a general guide:
| Dog Size | Raw Snack Frequency |
|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | 1 small raw snack/day |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | 1–2 raw snacks/day |
| Large (50–90 lbs) | 2–3 raw snacks/day |
| Giant (90+ lbs) | 3+ raw snacks/day |
Always adjust based on your dog’s activity level, caloric needs, and health goals.
Final Thoughts: Nature Knows Best
When it comes to fueling your dog’s body and brain, nature already provides the perfect snacks. From nutrient-rich hearts and organs to fatty fish and probiotic-rich tripe, raw snacks offer a powerful combination of energy, focus, and total-body wellness.
At Canada Raw, we’re proud to support dog owners with quality, natural food options that help pets thrive. Whether you’re building a raw meal plan or just looking for smart snack options, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Want to explore our latest raw snacks and meal solutions?
Visit our shop or reach out to our raw feeding specialists for personalized advice.