Image of Rahmi standing at wooden counter looking to the right, wearing a black t-shirt with "Dogue" centered in all capital letters with "San Francisco" in smaller font underneath. Both in white text. — I live near Valencia Street, where Dogue’s flagship store is located. I had heard about and seen the shop when bicycling up and down Valencia but had never been in until I decided to drop in one day. I introduced myself to Rahmi, who warmly greeted me. I asked him if he’d be open to an interview and to my delight, he agreed.

*All photos provided by Dogue or taken from their website/social media unless otherwise credited.*

As with so many folks who work with animals or in pet-related businesses, the story of how you started Dogue was inspired by the first pup that you had with your wife - an Old English Mastiff, Grizzly. As a professionally trained chef, you started making fresh raw food for him that was healthy and nutritious. Can you remember what the first meal was that you made for him?

Grizzly and his wellbeing was the priority and what we started making fresh food. His first meal was green tripe. Smelly and delicious.

Dogue: Pronounced “Doe-gh” - Think of “dough,” then take on a “g” for good measure. Translates to “Mastiff” in French, an homage to Rahmi’s classical French cuisine and first Mastiff, Grizzly.

Do you remember his reaction to that first meal?

He loved the first meal.

How does that first meal compare with the meals you prepare now for your own family dogs and your customers?

The food has evolved over the years to become more balanced.

What is your most popular meal offering?

We don’t have one specific meal that is most popular. Dogs have preferences and varying tastes.

Do you have a favorite type of Dogue meal that you enjoy preparing?

I don’t have any favorites to prepare.

I love that you list the benefits of changing from kibble or highly processed dog food to your food and real food for pups. Since February is Pet Dental Health Month, I’m curious if you’ve noticed or heard from your customers about any benefits of your Dogue meals for their dog’s dental health?

Raw meaty bones are the best chew for dental health.

I know that you focus on fresh, seasonal, and quality whole raw ingredients for your Dogue food. What are some interesting ingredients that you love using and are in season now?

We love using wild game meats.

You’ve been in business almost 10 years now - congrats! What have you seen change in the dog food industry and nutrition science since you started?

We see a huge switch from 100% processed food to a realization the fresh food is best for health and wellness.

What trends are you seeing that you support?

I hold the philosophy the more fresh food the better.

Are you planning on a 10 year anniversary celebration?

Haven’t thought too much about a 10 year celebration but that’s a wonderful idea.

Folks can read about your services on your website but I’m wondering if there’s anything else you’d love my audience to know about what you offer?

The website and instagram cover what we do pretty well.

A Pawstisserie made with blueberry, “one of the healthiest low glycemic antioxidant rich fruits you can offer your dog.”

For pet parents who maybe aren’t quite convinced about raw food, what do you want them to know?

Fresh food isn’t an all or nothing approach, some fresh food is better than none.

For pet parents who maybe can’t afford your services or other prepared raw food options, but would love to feed more wholesome meals to their fur babies, do you have any recommendations or resources for them?

Adding in fresh foods a few times a week will make a difference.

Lastly, I know you have felines in your family. Do you also prepare fresh food for them? Have you thought about offering meals for cats? Or do you already do that as a secret menu?

We do offer cat food as well and my cats also enjoy fresh food.

Dogue’s food is available for pick up at their Valencia St location. Rahmi says most of the raw food the make for pups are also great for kitties. Photo by Jung Fitzpatrick.

Thank you so much Rahmi. It was lovely to learn more about the raw food you prepare for dogs starting with and including your own!

Dogue: “Dog food reimagined. Our mission is to change the lives of as many dogs as we can. Feeding fresh, seasonal, quality whole food one meal at a time.”

Check out Dogue’s website to learn more about their offerings and give them a follow on IG for some eye-poppingly delicious looking fresh, whole dog food! Better yet, go visit their Dogue flagship location in the Mission SF on Valencia Street. Monday through Friday, they are a Fresh Food Shop. On Sundays, Dogue turns into Bone Appétit Cafe. Bring your pup along!

Is your pup reactive or anxious out in public? Want to take them to visit Dogue and other places? Let’s chat!

Make my pup cafe-friendly