Fresh food is an essential part of any dog’s diet. Not only does it provide essential nutrients, but it also contributes to their overall health and well-being. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine the best fresh food for your furry friend. In this article, we will explore the world of fresh dog food and identify the best options available.
When it comes to fresh dog food, there are two primary options: homemade and commercial. Homemade dog food allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that your dog is consuming only high-quality, nutritious food. However, it can be time-consuming and requires a significant amount of effort. Commercial fresh dog food, on the other hand, offers convenience and a wide range of options. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses only the best ingredients.
When selecting fresh dog food, it is crucial to pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content. Look for options that contain high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid options that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other harmful ingredients.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various fresh dog food brands to identify the best options available. In the next section, we will share our top picks and provide a detailed analysis of each option.
Best Fresh Food for Dogs
We all want our furry friends to live long and healthy lives, and a big part of that is feeding them the right food. While kibble is a convenient option, fresh food can provide a variety of health benefits, from improved digestion to a shinier coat. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best fresh food options for dogs, based on factors like quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Whether you’re looking for a complete meal or a supplement to your dog’s diet, we’ve got you covered.
1. Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch
If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy dog food option that’s easy to serve, then the Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch is a great choice.
Pros
- The all-natural ingredients make it a great choice for sensitive dogs.
- The individual pouches are convenient and easy to serve, with no thawing or adding water required.
- It’s made in the USA with quality human-grade ingredients.
Cons
- It’s a bit expensive compared to other dog food options.
- Some picky dogs may not be interested in the flavors.
- The pouches are on the smaller side, so they may not be enough for larger dogs.
We’ve been using the Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch for a few weeks now, and we’re really happy with it. The ingredients are all-natural and high-quality, so we feel good about feeding it to our dog. Plus, the individual pouches are really convenient – we can just grab one and go, whether we’re at home or on the road.
Our dog seems to really enjoy the flavors, too. We’ve tried a few different ones, and she’s been happy with all of them. Of course, every dog is different, so there’s always a chance that your pup won’t be interested in these flavors.
The only downside we’ve found is that the pouches are a bit small, so they may not be enough for larger dogs. It’s also a bit expensive compared to other dog food options, but we think it’s worth it for the quality ingredients and convenience. Overall, we’re really happy with the Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch and would definitely recommend it to other dog owners looking for a healthy, fresh food option.
2. ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food
If you want to keep your senior dog healthy and active, ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food is the best choice.
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Grain-free recipe
- Contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, Chondroitin, and Glucosamine for joint health
Cons
- Expensive
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- May cause loose stools in some dogs
We’ve been using ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food for our senior dog for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver, which provide a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The recipe is also grain-free, which is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
What we love most about this dog food is that it contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, Chondroitin, and Glucosamine, which help support our senior dog’s joint health. We’ve noticed that our dog is more active and playful since we switched to this food.
However, ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food is quite expensive compared to other dog foods on the market. Also, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to transition them to this diet. Finally, some dogs may experience loose stools when they first start eating this food.
Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food for senior dogs who need a high-quality, grain-free diet to support their joint health and overall well-being.
3. Freshpet Vital Complete Meals Grain-Free Chicken Fresh Small Breed Dog Food
If you’re looking for a fresh dog food option that’s packed with protein and free of preservatives and by-products, Freshpet Vital Complete Meals Grain-Free Chicken Fresh Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- Made with all-natural, non-GMO ingredients
- Packed with protein from 100% natural chicken
- Contains vitamin and antioxidant-rich vegetables
Cons
- More expensive than traditional kibble
- May not be as convenient as dry food
- Some dogs may not like the taste
We recently tried this food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the smell of the food. It’s clear that this is a high-quality option that’s made with care.
One of the biggest pros of this food is the fact that it’s made with all-natural, non-GMO ingredients. This is important if you’re looking for a fresh food option that doesn’t contain any artificial additives or preservatives. Plus, the fact that it’s grain-free and packed with protein from natural chicken means that it’s a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Another great thing about this food is the inclusion of vitamin and antioxidant-rich vegetables. This means that your dog is getting a well-rounded meal that’s complete and balanced for all life stages. Plus, the smell of the food is great and our dog couldn’t wait to dig in.
On the downside, this food is more expensive than traditional kibble and may not be as convenient to store or serve. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality fresh food option for your dog, Freshpet Vital Complete Meals Grain-Free Chicken Fresh Small Breed Dog Food is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the quality ingredients and convenience.
4. JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack
If you’re looking for fresh dog food that is 100% human-grade and shelf-stable, JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack is a great option.
Pros
- Made with fresh whole foods and cooked for optimal nutrient absorption
- Proven to be 40% more digestible than kibble, leading to better digestion, healthier skin, shinier coat, increased energy, and easier weight management
- Can be stored unopened for up to two years, making it perfect for traveling
Cons
- More expensive than traditional kibble
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food
We’ve been using JustFoodForDogs for a few months now and have seen noticeable improvements in our dog’s health. His coat is shinier, his digestion is better, and he has more energy. We love that the food is made with fresh whole foods and cooked for optimal nutrient absorption. The variety pack is great because it allows us to mix up our dog’s meals and keep things interesting for him.
One downside of JustFoodForDogs is that it is more expensive than traditional kibble. However, we feel that the health benefits are worth the extra cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.
Overall, we highly recommend JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack to anyone looking for a high-quality, shelf-stable, and nutritious dog food option.
5. I AND LOVE AND YOU Irresist-A-Bowls Wet Dog Food
If you’re looking for a fresh, healthy, and delicious meal for your furry friend, then I AND LOVE AND YOU Irresist-A-Bowls Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The recipe is complete and balanced, providing all the nutrients and vitamins your pet needs to stay healthy.
- The #1 ingredient is real chicken, which is packed with protein, amino acids, and omega-6s to keep your pet’s energy up.
- The prebiotics in the recipe help with digestion and feed healthy gut bacteria, which in turn produces nutrients for your pet’s colon.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the food is a bit greasy, which may not be suitable for all dogs.
- The price point is a bit high compared to other wet dog food options on the market.
- Some picky eaters may not like the taste of the recipe.
We recently tried out this recipe with our own furry friend, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall taste. The chunks of real chicken and duck were visible and plentiful, and our dog couldn’t get enough of it.
The fact that the recipe is complete and balanced means that we don’t have to worry about supplementing our dog’s diet with additional vitamins or nutrients. We also appreciate that the recipe is grain-free and filler-free, which means that we’re not paying for unnecessary ingredients that don’t add any nutritional value.
One thing to note is that the food is a bit greasy, which may not be suitable for all dogs. However, we didn’t find this to be a major issue, and our dog didn’t seem to mind at all.
Overall, we think that I AND LOVE AND YOU Irresist-A-Bowls Wet Dog Food is a great option for pet owners who want to feed their furry friends a fresh, healthy, and delicious meal. While the price point is a bit high compared to other options on the market, we think that the quality of the ingredients and the complete and balanced recipe make it worth the investment.
6. Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious food for your small dog, we highly recommend Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food.
Pros
- Made with fresh, real meat and fish for a delicious taste and high-quality protein
- Contains 20+ natural superfoods to support immune system function
- Minimally processed to preserve nutrients and natural flavor
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
- More expensive than some other dog foods
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
We recently tried this dog food with our small dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste. The kibble is small and easy for our dog to eat, and the natural superfoods provide added health benefits.
One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and minimally processed formula are worth the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty food for their furry friend.
7. Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food Cowboy Cookout
If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food, Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food Cowboy Cookout is a great option. It’s made with real deboned beef and vegetables, and contains no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or by-products.
Pros
- The first ingredient is real deboned beef, which is a great source of protein for your dog.
- The recipe also contains carrots and green beans, which provide additional nutrients and fiber.
- The canned food has a savory gravy made with beef broth, which adds even more flavor and moisture to your dog’s meals.
Cons
- The high moisture content of the food may not be suitable for all dogs.
- Some reviewers have noted that the cans may arrive dented, which can be a problem if you’re looking for a consistent product.
- The price point may be higher than other wet dog food options.
In our experience, Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food Cowboy Cookout is a great option for dogs who need a high-quality wet food option. The real deboned beef and vegetables provide excellent nutrition, and the savory gravy adds a delicious flavor that dogs love. While the high moisture content may not be suitable for all dogs, it can be a great option for those who need additional hydration in their diet. Overall, we would recommend this product to anyone looking for a high-quality wet dog food option.
8. JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler Variety Box
If you’re looking for fresh food for your dog, the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler Variety Box is worth considering.
Pros
- The sampler variety pack comes with six different nutritious recipes to try.
- All JustFoodForDogs meals are made with fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption.
- Our food is 40% more digestible than kibble. Pet parents have seen improvements in their dog’s health, including better digestion, healthier skin & shinier coat, increased energy, easier weight management, and more excitement at mealtime.
Cons
- The food is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
- The packaging can be difficult to open and store.
- Some customers have received expired products.
We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now and our dog loves it. The sampler pack is a great way to try out different recipes and see which ones your dog likes best. We’ve noticed that our dog has more energy and a shinier coat since switching to this fresh food. The food is easy to prepare, just thaw and serve. However, the packaging can be a bit difficult to open and store. The price is a bit high compared to other dog foods, but we believe it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits for our furry friend. Overall, we highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler Variety Box for dogs who deserve the best.
9. JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack
If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy food topper for your dog, JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack is a great choice.
Pros
- Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
- Proven to be 40% more digestible than kibble
- Can be used as a full meal or food topper
Cons
- Expensive compared to canned food
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Difficult to get all the food out of the package
We love that JustFoodForDogs uses only fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption, making it a healthy choice for our furry friends. In fact, pet parents have seen improvements in their dog’s health, including better digestion, healthier skin and shinier coat, increased energy, easier weight management, and more excitement at mealtime.
We also appreciate that this dog food topper is shelf-stable thanks to innovative Tetra Pak packaging, which means it’s free from preservatives and can be stored unopened for up to two years. This makes it perfect for traveling or for keeping on hand as a backup.
One of the best things about JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack is that it can be used as a full meal or food topper. The recipes in this variety pack are fully balanced and formulated to deliver daily essential nutrients for active adult dogs. This gives us the flexibility to use it as a standalone meal or mix it in with our dog’s current food as a nourishing boost.
However, we do acknowledge that this dog food topper is more expensive compared to canned food. Some dogs may also not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor their reaction. Additionally, we found it a little challenging to get all the food out of the boxes, which we wanted to do because they’re a bit expensive versus canned food.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fresh and healthy food topper for your dog, JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack is definitely worth considering. It’s a little pricey, but the benefits are well worth it.
10. ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for dog owners who are looking for fresh and high-quality food for their furry friends.
Pros
- Made with fresh or raw chicken, turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, and whole mackerel, which provide a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Contains prebiotics, probiotics, and soluble and insoluble fiber from inulin and the most amazing grains to support your dog’s digestive health.
- Freeze-dried dog food coating offers a burst of raw flavor that dogs instinctively crave.
Cons
- Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
- The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller breeds.
We have been using ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for our dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The food is made with high-quality ingredients, including fresh or raw poultry and fish, and contains 90% animal ingredients, which is essential for a dog’s diet.
The inclusion of prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber in the food has also helped improve our dog’s digestive health. The freeze-dried dog food coating provides a burst of flavor that our dog loves, and we appreciate that the grains used in the food are sourced from non-GMO crops.
However, the food is quite expensive compared to other dog food brands, and some dogs may not like the taste of the food. Additionally, the kibble size may not be suitable for smaller breeds, so pet owners should consider this before purchasing.
Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with fresh and high-quality food that supports their overall health and well-being.
11. Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dog food option, Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- Made with real meat and fish for protein and omega 3s & 6s
- Includes premium-quality turkey as the first ingredient plus fresh salmon & duck
- Grain-free recipe with 20+ natural superfoods, including antioxidant-rich blueberries & pomegranate
Cons
- A little pricey
- Large kibble may not be suitable for smaller dogs
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies
We’ve been feeding our dog Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been really happy with it. Our dog loves the taste, and we love that it’s made with high-quality, natural ingredients.
One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with real meat and fish as the first ingredients. We feel good knowing that our dog is getting the protein and nutrients he needs from real, whole foods.
We also like that this dog food is grain-free and includes 20+ natural superfoods. The antioxidant-rich blueberries and pomegranate are great for supporting our dog’s immune system, and we feel good knowing that he’s getting a balanced and nutritious diet.
The only downside to this dog food is that it’s a little pricey, but we feel that it’s worth the investment in our dog’s health. Additionally, the kibble is quite large, which may not be suitable for smaller dogs. Finally, if your dog has certain allergies, this dog food may not be suitable for them.
Overall, we highly recommend Now Fresh Grain Free Dog Food for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious dog food option for their furry friend.
12. ACANA Grain Free Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious, ACANA Grain Free Freshwater Fish Recipe Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made with protein-rich raw rainbow trout, catfish, and freshwater drum
- Includes a blend of pre- and probiotics to support digestive health
- Contains antioxidant-rich ingredients and added Vitamin E to help support a healthy immune system
Cons
- Some may find the price to be a bit steep
- Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
We recently tried ACANA Grain Free Freshwater Fish Recipe Dry Dog Food with our furry friend, and we were really impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value of the food. The protein-rich raw rainbow trout, catfish, and freshwater drum provide a great source of energy and help to support muscle growth and maintenance.
One thing we really appreciated about this dog food was the fact that it includes a blend of pre- and probiotics to support digestive health. We noticed that our dog seemed to digest the food well and didn’t experience any digestive issues while eating it.
Another great thing about ACANA Grain Free Freshwater Fish Recipe Dry Dog Food is that it contains antioxidant-rich ingredients and added Vitamin E to help support a healthy immune system. This is especially important for dogs who may be prone to illness or who need extra immune support.
Overall, we would definitely recommend ACANA Grain Free Freshwater Fish Recipe Dry Dog Food to anyone who is looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that their furry friend will love.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying fresh food for your furry friend, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you are making the best decision for their health and well-being. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Ingredients
The first thing to look for when choosing a fresh food product for your dog is the ingredients list. Make sure that the food contains high-quality, whole food ingredients that are free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for ingredients that are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Value
In addition to the ingredients, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of the food. Make sure that the product you choose provides a balanced and complete diet for your dog. This means that it should contain all of the essential nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Quality
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the product. Look for fresh food products that are made with high-quality ingredients and are produced in a clean and safe environment. You may also want to consider products that are made with organic or non-GMO ingredients.
Price
While price shouldn’t be the only factor to consider, it’s important to choose a fresh food product that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that high-quality products may cost more, but they may also provide better nutrition and health benefits for your dog.
Feeding Guidelines
Finally, make sure to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will help ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of nutrition and will prevent overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
Overall, choosing the best fresh food for your dog requires careful consideration of the ingredients, nutritional value, quality, price, and feeding guidelines. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision that will help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest food to feed a dog?
The healthiest food to feed a dog is one that is nutritionally balanced and meets their specific dietary needs. Fresh food options like meat, vegetables, and fruits can be a great addition to a dog’s diet, but it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the best diet for your dog.
What fresh meat is good for dogs?
Fresh meat options like chicken, turkey, beef, and lamb can be good sources of protein for dogs. It’s important to choose lean cuts of meat and to avoid feeding your dog bones or fatty cuts of meat that can lead to digestive issues.
Can I feed my dog fresh food instead of dog food?
While fresh food can be a great addition to a dog’s diet, it’s important to ensure that they are still receiving all the necessary nutrients in their diet. Consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the best balance of fresh food and commercial dog food for your dog.
What is the best home food for dogs?
The best home food for dogs will depend on their specific dietary needs. Some good options include cooked lean meats, vegetables like green beans and carrots, and fruits like apples and bananas. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the best home-cooked diet for your dog.
Is Freshpet good for dogs?
Freshpet can be a good option for dogs as it is made with fresh ingredients and is free from preservatives. However, it’s important to ensure that Freshpet or any other fresh dog food is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific dietary needs.
What are the best fresh dog food brands?
Some of the best fresh dog food brands include The Farmer’s Dog, NomNomNow, and Ollie. These brands offer nutritionally balanced fresh food options that can be tailored to meet your dog’s specific dietary needs. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the best diet for your dog.
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80% of Dogs Develop Arthritis or Joint Pain by 7 Years old – Here’s How to Protect Them
Most of us train our dogs when they are puppies to jump up on furniture. We think it’s harmless (and easier than always lifting them), but for dogs, couches and beds are very high compared to the size of their bodies.
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It’s no wonder that an incredible 80% of dogs experience arthritis or joint pain by only 7 years old.
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