Quick answer
McLovin's Pet offers freeze-dried raw dog food made with single-ingredient proteins, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and wild-caught fish. The food is grain-free, nutrient-rich, and crafted in the USA. It is a minimally processed raw option that does not require refrigeration. This article reviews the product line and provides a step-by-step framework to help you decide if it fits your dog's needs.
Note: This article is based on desk research from the brand's official site and third-party sources. We have not personally tested the product.
Main explanation
McLovin's Pet, based in Chino, CA, specializes in premium freeze-dried pet foods for dogs and cats. Their dog food line includes complete and balanced meals, such as the Butcher's Absolute Beef Recipe (available in 16 oz and 48 oz sizes), made with high-quality beef as the main ingredient. The company also offers a chicken recipe, Nana's Recipe, made with real freeze-dried chicken.
The brand emphasizes that its food contains no artificial flavors, preservatives, or coloring. All products are freeze-dried to lock in nutrition and taste. Free shipping is available on orders over $25.
Because McLovin's is a freeze-dried raw food, it differs from traditional kibble. It retains more natural nutrients but requires proper handling and rehydration before feeding. The brand describes its food as “complete and balanced,” meaning it can be served as a full meal, not just a topper or treat.
Decision framework: How to choose McLovin's dog food
Use these four ordered steps to decide if McLovin's is a good fit for your dog.
Step 1: Assess your dog's dietary needs
- Protein source: McLovin's offers beef, chicken, and fish options. If your dog has sensitivities, choose a single-protein recipe. The brand uses grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and wild-caught fish.
- Grain-free requirement: All McLovin's food is grain-free. If your dog needs grains, this brand is not suitable.
- Raw food readiness: Freeze-dried raw food is not heat-processed. If your dog is used to cooked kibble, transition slowly.
Step 2: Select a recipe
- Butcher's Absolute Beef Recipe: A complete meal with beef as the main ingredient. Available in 16 oz and 48 oz sizes.
- Nana's Chicken Recipe: Made with real freeze-dried chicken, available at retailers like PetSmart.
- Other options: The brand also offers treats and mixers, but the focus here is on full meals. Check the official site for current availability.
Step 3: Decide between full meal or mixer
- Full meal: These recipes are designed to be a complete and balanced diet. You can feed them as the sole food.
- Mixer: Some products may be used as a topper. If you want to supplement your dog's existing food, look for “mixer” on the label. The Butcher's Recipe is explicitly labeled as a “Full Meal”.
Step 4: Plan the preparation and transition
- Rehydration: Freeze-dried food needs to be rehydrated with water before feeding. Follow the package instructions.
- Transition: When switching from kibble, mix increasing amounts of McLovin's with your dog's current food over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.
- Storage: Freeze-dried food is shelf-stable but should be stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, use within a reasonable time to maintain freshness.
Practical takeaways
- McLovin's is a freeze-dried raw food brand that uses single-ingredient proteins and is grain-free.
- The company is based in California and offers free shipping on orders over $25.
- For a complete meal, choose the Butcher's Beef Recipe or Nana's Chicken Recipe.
- No artificial flavors, preservatives, or coloring are used.
- Always rehydrate the food and transition gradually.
