Best Fresh Pet Food for Dogs: Top Picks for Nutritious Meals

Fresh pet food is becoming increasingly popular among dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best nutrition possible. Unlike traditional dry kibble, fresh pet food is made with whole, natural ingredients and is not heavily processed. Fresh pet food can come in many forms, including refrigerated, frozen, and dehydrated.

In this article, we will be focusing on the best fresh pet food for dogs. Specifically, we will be looking at refrigerated fresh pet food, which is a popular choice among pet owners because it is convenient and easy to store. Refrigerated fresh pet food is made with raw or cooked ingredients and is kept fresh through a process called high-pressure pasteurization.

When choosing the best fresh pet food for your dog, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content. Look for fresh pet food that contains high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as healthy fats and carbohydrates. It’s also important to choose fresh pet food that is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products.

In this article, we will be reviewing and testing various brands of refrigerated fresh pet food to identify the ones that are the best for your furry friend. We will be looking at factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional content, and taste to determine which brands are worth your investment.

Best Fresh Pet Food for Dogs

We know that our furry friends deserve the best, and that includes their diet. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best fresh pet food options for dogs. These products are made with high-quality ingredients, free from fillers, and are sure to keep your pup healthy and happy. Check out our top picks below.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Wet Dog Food, Savory Favorites Variety Pack, 8 Ounce Tub (Pack of 6)

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy wet dog food option, then the Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Favorites variety pack is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with simple and natural ingredients like real beef, chicken, or lamb and wholesome veggies plus vitamins and minerals
• Contains no corn, wheat, or soy ingredients, making it an excellent option for dogs with food sensitivities
• Variety pack includes three mouth-watering flavors inspired by recipes from Rachael’s kitchen

Cons

• Some customers have reported receiving containers with a lot of liquid and barely any food
• A bit pricey compared to other wet dog food options
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food

Our experience with the Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Favorites variety pack has been positive. We appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and contains no corn, wheat, or soy. The variety pack is a great way to keep mealtime interesting for your pup with three different flavors to choose from. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we liked that it was easy to mix in with his dry kibble.

However, we did notice that some containers had a lot of liquid and not enough food, which was a bit disappointing. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than other wet dog food options, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Finally, while our dog enjoyed the food, we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs didn’t like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, we would recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Favorites variety pack as a healthy and tasty option for dogs who enjoy wet food.

Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls

If you’re looking for a convenient, high-quality dog food that’s perfect for training, travel, or as a healthy treat, Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls could be just what you need.

Pros

• Formulated for optimum nutrition, a healthy coat, and high energy
• Perfect for travel with your dog, ideal for senior or convalescing dogs, and great for hiding medications
• Semi-moist, meaty beef formula that even the pickiest dogs will love!

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May be too expensive for some budgets
• Some customers reported moldy product upon arrival

We’ve found that Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls are a great option for those who want a high-quality dog food that’s convenient and easy to use. These rolls are formulated for optimum nutrition, with biotin to support healthy skin and coat, and added taurine for heart and eye health. They’re perfect for dogs of all life stages, from puppies to adults, and can be used as a full feed or mixed over Lucy Pet dry food.

One of the best things about these rolls is their convenience. They’re easy to slice or chop, so you can use them as a full feed or a treat, or grate them and use them as a food topper. They’re also perfect for travel with your dog, and are ideal for senior or convalescing dogs. Plus, they’re great for hiding medications, making them a lifesaver for pet owners who struggle to get their dogs to take pills.

While we’ve found that most dogs love the taste of these rolls, some may not be as enthusiastic. Additionally, the price may be too high for some budgets. Finally, some customers have reported moldy product upon arrival, so be sure to check your rolls carefully before feeding them to your dog.

Overall, we think Lucy Pet Beef Formula Dog Food Rolls are a great option for those who want a high-quality, convenient dog food that’s perfect for training, travel, or as a healthy treat.

Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food

We highly recommend the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with real meat and fish for protein, omega 3s, and 6s, and a delicious taste
• Includes premium-quality turkey as the first ingredient plus fresh salmon and duck
• Dry food recipe with 20 natural superfoods, including antioxidant-rich blueberries and broccoli to support healthy immune system function

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Some dogs may experience digestive issues during the transition period

We have been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and energy levels. The real meat and fish provide a great source of protein for our furry friend, and the natural superfoods ensure that he is getting all the necessary nutrients to support his immune system.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is slightly more expensive than other brands. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction during the transition period.

Overall, we highly recommend the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for any dog owner looking to provide their furry friend with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food | Chicken Recipe Premium Natural Dog Food | All Breeds -amp; Ages | Made in The USA | 2 Pound Bag Chicken 2 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food for pet owners who want to feed their furry friends with premium, all-natural ingredients that are easy to digest and packed with nutrients.

Pros

• The GAP-rated, antibiotic-free chicken organ and muscle meat, combined with sustainably sourced sardines, make it the perfect food for sensitive stomachs and rotational feeding.
• The unique holistic formula enriched with organic sprouted seeds promotes gut health and is ideal for dogs of all sizes and ages, from puppy to senior, with no unnecessary fillers.
• The gentle air-drying process creates a jerky-like texture that picky dogs love and retains the perfect amount of moisture to lock in the natural taste of chicken.

Cons

• The kibbles are fairly big, which may not be suitable for small breeds.
• It is a bit expensive to feed multiple dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.

Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food is a premium, all-natural dog food that combines quality ingredients, including real organ and muscle meat, ancient grains, fruits and vegetables, and vitamins and minerals. The gentle air-drying process retains high nutrient density, making it an excellent alternative to processed kibble.

The unique holistic formula enriched with organic sprouted seeds promotes gut health, making it an excellent meal, topper, or treat for dogs of all sizes and ages, from puppy to senior, with no unnecessary fillers. The GAP-rated, antibiotic-free chicken organ and muscle meat, combined with sustainably sourced sardines, make it the perfect food for sensitive stomachs and rotational feeding.

The gentle air-drying process creates a jerky-like texture that picky dogs love and retains the perfect amount of moisture to lock in the natural taste of chicken, making it an excellent choice for dogs with a discerning palate. However, the kibbles are fairly big, which may not be suitable for small breeds, and it is a bit expensive to feed multiple dogs. Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may not be the best option for all pets.

Overall, Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to feed their furry friends with premium, all-natural ingredients that are easy to digest and packed with nutrients.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious, Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with real salmon as the #1 ingredient for a great taste that dogs love.
• Contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, making it a healthy choice for your dog.
• Includes added vitamins and minerals to ensure your dog gets the nutrition they need.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog foods on the market.
• Some users have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger dogs.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food for our dog for several months now, and we’re very happy with it. Our dog loves the taste of the salmon and sweet potato recipe, and we feel good knowing that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and no artificial additives.

One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is that it’s easy to digest. Our dog has had digestive issues in the past, but we’ve had no problems since switching to Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food.

Another thing we like about this dog food is that it’s made in the USA with the world’s best ingredients. We feel good knowing that we’re supporting American farmers and that our dog is getting the best possible nutrition.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken -amp; Salmon Formula Wet Dog Food

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy wet dog food that helps your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken -amp; Salmon Formula is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real chicken and salmon for essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Ultra reduced calories without sacrificing taste.
• Nutrition for every type of dog, not just dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin or allergies.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Pricey compared to other wet dog food brands.
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs.

We recently tried this wet dog food on our overweight dog and were impressed with the results. The special protein and fiber blend helped our dog feel fuller, longer, and the L-Carnitine helped burn fat to support a healthy weight. We also appreciated that it contains added vitamins E, C, and zinc to help support our dog’s immune health while keeping his skin and fur looking and feeling great.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this wet dog food, so it’s worth trying a small quantity before purchasing a larger pack. Additionally, it is a bit pricey compared to other wet dog food brands, but the quality of ingredients and targeted nutrition make it worth the investment.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food to help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken -amp; Salmon Formula is definitely worth trying.

Royal Canin Small Adult 8 Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a highly nutritious dog food for your senior dog, Royal Canin Small Adult 8 Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The exclusive blend of nutrients and antioxidants promotes healthy aging and vitality in small dogs.
• The small kibble is highly palatable, satisfying even the fussiest eaters for a meal your dog will love.
• Helps maintain a healthy weight with L-carnitine to promote fat burning as metabolism slows.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of it.
• It is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
• The packaging could be improved to make it easier to store and handle.

As a dog owner, we want to provide our dogs with the best possible nutrition, and Royal Canin Small Adult 8 Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. This dog food is specifically formulated for small dogs weighing between 9-22 lbs and aged 8-12 years. The exclusive blend of nutrients and antioxidants promotes healthy aging and vitality in small dogs. It also helps maintain a healthy weight with L-carnitine to promote fat burning as metabolism slows.

The small kibble is highly palatable and adapted for miniature jaws, making it easier for small dogs to eat and digest. The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and it satisfies even the fussiest eaters for a meal your dog will love. It is also highly digestible, which means your dog will get the most out of the food they eat.

One potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of it. However, this is common with any dog food, and it’s important to find the right food that your dog enjoys. Another downside is that it is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods. However, the quality of the ingredients and the targeted nutrition make it worth the cost. The packaging could also be improved to make it easier to store and handle.

Overall, Royal Canin Small Adult 8 Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for small dogs aged 8-12 years. It provides targeted nutrition to support healthy aging and vitality in small dogs. It is highly palatable, making it an excellent choice for even the fussiest eaters. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will provide your dog with the nutrition they need, Royal Canin Small Adult 8 Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Beneful Purina Infused Wet Dog Food Pate, with Real Beef, Carrots and Spinach, with Bone Broth for Dogs – (8 Packs of 3) 3 oz. Sleeves Beef, Carrots, Spinach 3 Ounce (Pack of 24)

If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s made with real beef, carrots, and spinach, then Beneful Purina Infused Wet Dog Food Pate is a great choice. It’s infused with bone broth to support healthy bones and joints, and it’s 100% complete and balanced for adult dogs. Here’s what we think of this product:

Pros

• The real beef and vegetable blend make this wet dog food delicious and nutritious.
• The bone broth helps support healthy bones and joints.
• The recipe contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• The packages are small, which may not be enough for larger dogs.
• Some customers have reported receiving bad batches of this food.
• The packaging can be difficult to open.

We found that our dogs loved the taste and texture of this wet dog food. The meaty, easy-to-chew texture is great for dogs of all ages, and it makes for a great standalone meal or tasty mixer when added to kibble. We appreciate that the recipe contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dogs a healthy and nutritious meal.

However, we did find that the packages are small, which may not be enough for larger dogs. Additionally, some customers have reported receiving bad batches of this food, so it’s important to check the expiration date and inspect the food before serving it to your dog. Lastly, the packaging can be difficult to open, which can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry.

Overall, we think that Beneful Purina Infused Wet Dog Food Pate is a great choice for dog owners who want to provide their pets with a high-quality, nutritious meal. Just be sure to check the expiration date and inspect the food before serving it to your dog.

JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Wet Dog Food, Complete Meal or Dog Food Topper, Chicken -amp; White Rice Human Grade Dog Food Recipe – 12.5 oz (Pack of 6)

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food option, JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The food is 100% human-grade, made with fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption.
• This fresh dog food is 40% more digestible than kibble, which means your dog will experience better digestion, healthier skin -amp; shinier coat, increased energy, easier weight management, and more excitement at mealtime.
• Thanks to innovative Tetra Pak packaging, this fresh dog food is free from preservatives and can be stored unopened for up to two years. Perfect for traveling.

Cons

• The food is a bit more expensive than traditional kibble options.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the food and may need some time to adjust to it.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.

We tried JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Wet Dog Food with our own dogs and noticed a significant improvement in their overall health and energy levels. The food is easy to prepare and can be used as a complete meal or as a food topper. The recipes in this variety pack are fully balanced and formulated to deliver daily essential nutrients for active adult dogs.

We appreciate that the food is 100% human-grade, which means that we know exactly what our dogs are eating. The innovative Tetra Pak packaging is also a plus, as it allows us to store the food for longer periods of time without worrying about preservatives.

The only downside we experienced was that the food is a bit more expensive than traditional kibble options. However, we believe that the benefits of the food outweigh the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Wet Dog Food to anyone looking for a fresh dog food option for their furry friends.

JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler Human Grade Dog Food Variety Box

If you’re looking for fresh dog food for your furry friend, the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler is definitely worth considering. We were impressed with the variety of recipes included in the pack, and the fact that all of the ingredients are 100% human-grade.

Pros

• The sampler pack includes six different recipes, so your dog can try a variety of flavors.
• All of the ingredients are human-grade, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your dog.
• The food is 40% more digestible than kibble, which can lead to improved digestion and other health benefits.

Cons

• The food can be a bit expensive, especially if you have a larger dog or multiple dogs.
• Some dogs may not like all of the flavors included in the sampler pack.
• The food needs to be kept frozen, which can be a bit of a hassle if you don’t have a lot of freezer space.

We found that our dog really enjoyed the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler. She eagerly ate all of the different flavors, and seemed to have more energy and a shinier coat after eating the food for a few weeks. We also appreciated the fact that the food is easy to prepare – you simply thaw it in the refrigerator and serve it to your dog.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Sampler to anyone looking for a high-quality, fresh dog food option. While it may be a bit pricey, we think that the health benefits and peace of mind that comes with feeding your dog human-grade ingredients is well worth it.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best fresh pet food for your dog, there are a few key features to look out for. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the quality of the ingredients. Look for fresh, whole-food ingredients that are high in protein and free from fillers and artificial preservatives. It’s also important to choose a product that is balanced and complete, meaning it contains all the necessary nutrients your dog needs.

Packaging

Fresh pet food should be packaged in a way that keeps it fresh and safe for your dog to eat. Look for products that are vacuum-sealed or packed in airtight containers to ensure freshness. It’s also a good idea to choose a product that is delivered directly to your door, as this reduces the risk of contamination during shipping and storage.

Price

Fresh pet food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so it’s important to consider the price when making your decision. Look for products that offer good value for money, and consider signing up for a subscription service to save on repeat purchases.

Customer Reviews

Finally, be sure to read customer reviews before making your purchase. This can give you an idea of how the product has worked for other dog owners, and can help you make an informed decision. Look for products with high ratings and positive reviews, and be wary of products with too many negative reviews or complaints.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of feeding fresh pet food to dogs?

Feeding fresh pet food to dogs has several health benefits. Fresh pet food is made with natural, whole-food ingredients that provide essential nutrients and vitamins that are easily absorbed by your dog’s body. Fresh pet food is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and additives that can harm your dog’s health. It can also help improve your dog’s digestion, reduce allergies, and promote healthy skin and coat.

How do I choose the best fresh pet food based on ingredients?

When choosing the best fresh pet food for your dog, it’s important to look for high-quality ingredients. Look for fresh pet food that contains natural, whole-food ingredients like meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid fresh pet food that contains artificial preservatives, fillers, and additives. It’s also important to choose fresh pet food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

Can fresh dog food recipes be easily made at home?

Yes, fresh dog food recipes can be easily made at home. There are many recipes available online that are easy to follow and use natural, whole-food ingredients. However, it’s important to ensure that your homemade dog food is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific dietary needs.

Where can I find high-quality fresh pet dog food near me?

You can find high-quality fresh pet dog food at your local pet store or online. Look for fresh pet food brands that use natural, whole-food ingredients and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives, fillers, and additives.

What are the differences between Freshpet and other fresh dog food brands?

Freshpet is a popular fresh dog food brand that uses natural, whole-food ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and additives. It’s also refrigerated, which helps to maintain the freshness and nutritional value of the food. Other fresh dog food brands may use different ingredients and manufacturing processes, so it’s important to do your research and choose the brand that best meets your dog’s specific dietary needs.

How do I transition my dog to a fresh pet food diet safely?

To transition your dog to a fresh pet food diet safely, it’s important to do it gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of fresh pet food with your dog’s current food and gradually increase the amount over several days. This will help your dog’s digestive system adjust to the new diet and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset. It’s also important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.