Best Fresh Dog Food in Stores: Top Brands and Products to Try in 2024

Fresh dog food is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners who are looking for a healthier option for their furry friends. Unlike traditional dry and canned dog food, fresh dog food is made with human-grade ingredients and does not contain any preservatives or artificial additives. This makes it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

When it comes to purchasing fresh dog food, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, it is important to make sure that the food is made with high-quality ingredients that are safe for your dog to consume. Look for foods that are made with whole meats, fruits, and vegetables, and avoid any foods that contain fillers or by-products.

Another important factor to consider is the shelf life of the food. Fresh dog food typically has a shorter shelf life than traditional dog food, so it is important to make sure that you are purchasing a product that will stay fresh for a reasonable amount of time. Some fresh dog food brands offer frozen or refrigerated options, which can help to extend the shelf life of the food.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to find a fresh dog food that your dog enjoys and that meets their nutritional needs. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at some of the best fresh dog food options available in stores today.

Best Fresh Dog Food in Stores

We know how important it is to feed our furry friends a healthy and balanced diet. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best food for our dogs. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best fresh dog food options available in stores. These products are made with high-quality ingredients and are sure to keep your dog healthy and happy. Check out our top picks below.

Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food option that’s easy to serve and made with high-quality ingredients, then Portland Pet Food Company’s Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch is worth considering.

Pros

• Crafted with premium, fresh ingredients
• All-natural and gluten-free options available
• Convenient individual servings that are ready to eat

Cons

• Some flavors may have a soupy texture that can be messy for small dogs to eat
• Pricier than traditional canned dog food
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using this fresh dog food as a topper for our dog’s kibble and have noticed that she’s been more excited to eat her meals. The generous 9-ounce pouches are nearly triple the size of typical dog food toppers, making it a great option for adding extra nutrition to your dog’s diet.

One thing to keep in mind is that some flavors, such as the Pork and Potato blend, can have a soupy texture that may be messy for smaller dogs to eat. Additionally, the price point is higher than traditional canned dog food, so it may not be the most budget-friendly option for some pet owners.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and high-quality fresh dog food option, then Portland Pet Food Company’s Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch is definitely worth considering.

Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls

If you’re looking for a convenient and delicious dog food option, Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The semi-moist, meaty beef formula is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
• With biotin to support healthy skin and coat, and added taurine for heart and eye health, this food is designed to provide optimum nutrition for your furry friend.
• Lucy Pet Dog Food Rolls are incredibly versatile; you can slice or chop them to use as a full feed or a treat, or grate them and use as a food topper.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the texture of semi-moist food, so it’s worth trying a small amount before committing to a larger purchase.
• While the rolls are marketed as being easy to use, some pet owners may find them cumbersome to slice or grate.
• The rolls are not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, such as those who need a low-fat diet.

We recently tried Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls with our own furry friends, and we were impressed with the quality and convenience of this product. The rolls are incredibly easy to store, with no refrigeration needed until they are opened. We found that the beef formula was a hit with our dogs, who eagerly gobbled it up at mealtime.

One thing to note is that the rolls are fairly dense and can be difficult to slice or grate, especially if you have a larger dog. However, we found that using a sharp knife and a bit of elbow grease made the process much easier.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls to anyone looking for a high-quality, convenient dog food option. Whether you’re looking for a full feed, a treat, or a food topper, these rolls are sure to please both you and your furry friend.

JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack

We highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack for pet parents who want to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, nutritious diet.

Pros

• The food is made with 100% human-grade ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards for your dog.
• JustFoodForDogs meals are proven to be 40% more digestible than kibble, which means your dog will have better digestion and overall health.
• The innovative Tetra Pak packaging allows for shelf-stable storage of up to two years, making it perfect for traveling.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands on the market.
• The transition period from commercial dog food to JustFoodForDogs may take up to 10 days, which could be a challenge for some dogs.
• The variety pack only comes in two flavors, which may limit options for picky eaters.

We have been using the JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack for a few months now and have noticed significant improvements in our dog’s digestion, energy levels, and overall health. The food is easy to mix in with our dog’s current food as a topper, and the recipes are fully balanced to deliver daily essential nutrients for active adult dogs.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the use of 100% human-grade ingredients. We feel confident in knowing that we are providing our dog with the same quality of food that we would eat ourselves. Additionally, the food is proven to be more digestible than kibble, which has led to fewer digestive issues and healthier skin and coat for our dog.

The innovative Tetra Pak packaging is another plus for this dog food. It allows for easy storage and transportation without the need for preservatives. We have taken the food with us on trips and have not had any issues with spoilage or contamination.

Overall, we highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs Fresh Dog Food Topper Variety Pack for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with the best possible nutrition. While the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, we believe that the quality and benefits of this food make it worth the investment.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food that your furry friend will love, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food is a great option. With its natural ingredients and added vitamins and minerals, this dog food is perfect for maintaining the health of adult dogs.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing high-quality protein for your dog’s muscles
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrates like sweet potato and pumpkin provide energy for your dog’s daily activities
• Fiber helps support digestion and immune system health, keeping your dog healthy and happy

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food looks and smells different than they expected
• The price may be higher than other dog food options on the market
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

We recently tried this dog food with our own furry friend and were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste and seemed to have more energy throughout the day. We also noticed an improvement in his digestion and overall health.

The natural ingredients in this dog food make it a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious diet. The added vitamins and minerals help to maintain your dog’s health, while the high-quality protein from real salmon helps to build and maintain strong muscles.

While the price may be higher than other dog food options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to your dog’s health make it worth the investment. However, it’s important to note that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, so be sure to check with your veterinarian before making the switch.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag 2.5 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a healthy weight management dog food for your furry friend, Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The first raw boosted kibble for weight management
• Contains freeze-dried raw pieces
• Made with fat-burning L-Carnitine for healthy metabolism

Cons

• Expensive
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this dog food with our pup and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The cage-free chicken is the number one ingredient and the food is free of grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, artificial colors, or preservatives. We also appreciated that the food contains fat-burning L-Carnitine for healthy metabolism and the ideal fiber level to help our dog feel full.

One thing to note is that this dog food is on the expensive side, but we think it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality, healthy weight management dog food option.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious way to keep your dog healthy, Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food is a great option. Made with real lamb as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is protein-rich and helps support strong muscles. It also contains nutrient-dense whole grains like rice, oatmeal, and barley, which are a great source of fiber and help support healthy digestion. Additionally, it’s free from added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Pros

• Real lamb as the #1 ingredient
• Nutrient-dense whole grains for healthy digestion
• No added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• The kibble size may not be appropriate for all dogs

We recently tried Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food for our adult dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loved the taste of the lamb and rice recipe and we noticed an improvement in his digestion after switching to this food. We appreciated that it was free from added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, which gave us peace of mind that we were feeding our dog a high-quality diet.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, so it’s important to introduce this food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this food may not be suitable for them. Finally, the kibble size may not be appropriate for all dogs, so it’s important to consider your dog’s size and chewing habits when choosing a food.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food for adult dogs who enjoy the taste of lamb and need a high-quality, nutritious diet.

Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food, 4 lb. Bag Beef 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing the Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food. This product is perfect for small breed dogs and provides a balanced and nutritious diet.

Pros

• The product is made with freeze-dried raw beef, which is the number one ingredient, and contains natural bites of beef that dogs love.
• The small breed dog food is grain-free and does not contain any artificial colors or preservatives, making it a healthy option for your furry friend.
• The product is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world, giving you peace of mind knowing your dog is eating high-quality food.

Cons

• The product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands on the market.
• The kibble is small, which may not be ideal for larger breed dogs.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the freeze-dried raw beef bites.

We recently tried the Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the freeze-dried raw beef bites and seemed to have more energy after eating this food. We also noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat, which looked healthier and shinier.

The product is easy to transition to and comes with feeding recommendations on the Instinct Pet Food website. We appreciate that the product is made with real, whole food ingredients and does not contain any fillers or artificial additives.

Overall, we believe the Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Beef Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option for small breed dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

Freshpet® Select Multi-Protein Complete Meal: Chicken, Beef, Egg -amp; Salmon Recipe for Dogs

If you’re looking for fresh dog food that’s made with natural ingredients, then Freshpet’s Multi-Protein Complete Meal is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with natural chicken, beef, egg, and salmon
• Rich in Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin -amp; coat
• Contains no meat meals or by-product meals

Cons

• Only available in a 1.75 lb bag
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than traditional dry dog food

Freshpet’s Multi-Protein Complete Meal is a great option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs fresh, natural food. The recipe includes chicken, beef, egg, and salmon, which are all great sources of protein and essential nutrients. Plus, the food is rich in Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat.

One of the best things about Freshpet’s Multi-Protein Complete Meal is that it contains no meat meals or by-product meals. This means that your dog is getting real, whole foods that are packed with nutrition.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. The food is only available in a 1.75 lb bag, which may not last very long if you have a large dog. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, which can be a problem if you’re trying to switch them to a new diet. Finally, the food is more expensive than traditional dry dog food, so it may not be the best option for pet owners on a budget.

Overall, Freshpet’s Multi-Protein Complete Meal is a great option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs fresh, natural food. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making a purchase.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef

If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that’s made in the USA, then the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is definitely worth considering. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we think that it’s a great choice for any dog owner who wants to provide their pet with the best possible nutrition.

Pros

• Made with real beef as the #1 ingredient for a high protein, grain-free, and gluten-free recipe.
• Slowly oven roasted at a low temperature to retain maximum nutrition and flavor.
• All-natural ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals, entirely free from fillers, and preservatives.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies.
• Some dogs may not like the crunchy texture of the food.

We love that this dog food is made with real beef as the #1 ingredient, which provides our dogs with the high-quality protein they need to stay healthy and strong. The slow oven roasting process ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, and our dogs seem to love the crunchy texture of the food. Plus, we appreciate that this dog food is made with all-natural ingredients and is entirely free from fillers and preservatives.

One potential downside of this dog food is that it is more expensive than other options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the careful preparation process make it well worth the cost. Additionally, some dogs with food allergies may not be able to tolerate this dog food, so be sure to check with your vet before making the switch.

Overall, we highly recommend the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef to any dog owner who wants to provide their pet with the best possible nutrition. With its high-quality ingredients, slow oven roasting process, and all-natural formulation, we believe that this dog food is a great choice for dogs of all ages and sizes.

Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is made with sustainably caught fish and packed with essential vitamins, Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Grain-Free Dry Dog Food might be a good choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• The high-nutrient formula is loaded with natural meaty protein for muscles, probiotic fiber for digestion, and essential vitamins.
• The recipe makes meat the first ingredient and skips the grain, corn, wheat, and soy in favor of smart superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil for whole diet balance.
• The brand provides owners with the ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food smells like veggies, not meat.
• The food is very expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs do not seem satisfied after eating the food.

We recently tried Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Grain-Free Dry Dog Food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The formula is packed with natural meaty protein for muscles, probiotic fiber for digestion, and essential vitamins that we know are important for our dog’s health. We appreciate that the recipe makes meat the first ingredient and skips the grain, corn, wheat, and soy in favor of smart superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil for whole diet balance.

One thing that stood out to us was the brand’s commitment to transparent sourcing practices. They provide owners with the ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag, which gives us peace of mind knowing exactly where our dog’s food is coming from.

However, some customers have reported that the food smells like veggies, not meat, which may be a turn-off for some dogs. Additionally, the food is very expensive compared to other dog food brands, which may not be feasible for some pet owners.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with sustainably caught fish and packed with essential vitamins, Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Grain-Free Dry Dog Food might be worth a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best fresh dog food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Ingredients

The quality of ingredients is crucial when it comes to choosing a fresh dog food. Look for products that use high-quality, whole food ingredients, such as fresh meats, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the fresh dog food you choose provides a balanced and complete diet for your dog. Look for products that meet the nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Type of Food

Consider the type of fresh dog food that will work best for your dog’s needs. Some popular options include frozen, refrigerated, or dehydrated dog food. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choose the one that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Price

Fresh dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so consider your budget when making your decision. Keep in mind that high-quality ingredients and nutritional value may come at a higher cost.

Brand Reputation

Research the brand of fresh dog food you are considering to ensure they have a good reputation for quality and safety. Look for brands that have undergone third-party testing and have positive customer reviews.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best fresh dog food for your furry friend’s health and happiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-reviewed fresh dog foods available in retail stores?

There are several fresh dog food brands available in retail stores that are highly rated by customers. Some of the top-reviewed brands include Freshpet, JustFoodForDogs, and The Farmer’s Dog. These brands offer a variety of fresh, human-grade ingredients that are minimally processed and free from preservatives.

Which brands of fresh dog food do veterinarians commonly recommend?

Many veterinarians recommend fresh dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients and are minimally processed. Some of the top brands recommended by veterinarians include NomNomNow, Ollie, and Spot -amp; Tango. These brands offer customized meal plans based on your dog’s individual needs and preferences.

How does fresh dog food compare in price to traditional kibble?

Fresh dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble. However, it’s important to consider the quality of ingredients and the health benefits that fresh dog food can provide. In some cases, the cost of fresh dog food may be offset by lower veterinary bills due to improved health and nutrition.

What are the most affordable options for fresh dog food on the market?

Some of the most affordable options for fresh dog food on the market include brands like Freshpet and JustFoodForDogs. These brands offer fresh, minimally processed ingredients at a lower cost than some of the more premium brands.

Can you find high-quality fresh dog food in local supermarkets?

Yes, you can find high-quality fresh dog food in local supermarkets. Brands like Freshpet and JustFoodForDogs are available in many grocery stores and pet supply stores. However, some of the more premium brands may only be available online or in specialty pet stores.

How do delivery services for fresh dog food stack up against in-store purchases?

Delivery services for fresh dog food can be a convenient option for pet owners who don’t have access to a local store that carries fresh dog food. Many delivery services offer customized meal plans and regular deliveries to ensure that your dog always has fresh, healthy food available. However, delivery services may be more expensive than purchasing fresh dog food in-store.