Which Fresh Dog Food is Best: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners

Fresh dog food has become a popular choice among pet owners who want to ensure their furry friends are getting the best nutrition possible. Unlike traditional dry or canned dog food, fresh dog food is made with real, whole ingredients and is often free from preservatives, fillers, and artificial flavors. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which fresh dog food is best for your pup.

When choosing a fresh dog food, it’s important to consider the quality of the ingredients, the nutritional value, and any special dietary needs your dog may have. Some fresh dog foods are formulated for specific life stages or health conditions, while others are designed to be a complete and balanced meal for any dog.

One critical factor to consider when purchasing fresh dog food is the source of the ingredients. Look for brands that use human-grade, locally sourced ingredients to ensure the highest quality and freshness. It’s also important to check the labeling to ensure that the food meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various fresh dog food brands to identify the ones that offer the best quality, nutrition, and value for your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for a fresh dog food for a specific health condition or simply want to provide your dog with a nutritious and delicious meal, we’ve got you covered.

Best Fresh Dog Foods

We know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right food for your dog. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various fresh dog foods to bring you our top picks. Below is our list of the best fresh dog foods that are sure to keep your pup healthy and happy.

Fresh Is Best – Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food – Chicken, 8 Ounces Chicken 8oz

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food option, Fresh Is Best Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made in small batches to ensure high quality and nutrition
• Slowly freeze-dried to lock in all the healthy nutrients, fat, minerals, and fiber
• Vacuum-sealed with high oxygen barrier bags so it stays fresh and tasty for up to a week unrefrigerated

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options
• Small bag doesn’t last long, especially if you have a larger dog
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We recently tried Fresh Is Best Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food for our dog and were impressed with the quality and nutrition it provided. The small batch and craft-made process ensures that only the best ingredients are used, and the slowly freeze-dried process locks in all the essential nutrients.

We also appreciated the vacuum-sealed packaging, which kept the food fresh and tasty for up to a week unrefrigerated. However, the high-quality ingredients and packaging do come at a cost, and this dog food is more expensive than other options on the market.

One downside we noticed was that the small bag didn’t last very long, especially since we have a larger dog. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the freeze-dried food.

Overall, we would recommend Fresh Is Best Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, fresh dog food option. Just be aware that it may come at a higher cost and may not be suitable for all dogs.

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 real ingredients, Freshpet Select Multi-Protein Complete Meal might be the right choice for you. Our experience with this product has been good overall, but there are a few things to consider before making a purchase.

Pros

• Made with natural chicken, beef, and salmon
• Rich in Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
• No meat meals or by-product meals

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Short shelf life, must be refrigerated

Freshpet Select Multi-Protein Complete Meal is a complete meal that contains chicken, beef, egg, and salmon. The ingredients are natural and rich in Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat. We appreciate that there are no meat meals or by-product meals in the recipe, making it a healthier option for our furry friends.

However, it’s important to note that this product is more expensive compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor their reaction. Lastly, the short shelf life of the product means that it must be refrigerated and used within a few days of opening.

Overall, Freshpet Select Multi-Protein Complete Meal is a good option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs fresh, natural ingredients. However, it’s important to consider the price, taste, and storage requirements before making a purchase.

Redbarn Grain Free 3lb Dog Food Roll – Beef

If you’re looking for a high-protein, nutritious, and easy-to-use dog food, Redbarn Grain Free 3lb Dog Food Roll in Beef might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Packed with fresh meat and high-quality, garden-fresh ingredients
• Low-temperature cooking process retains vital minerals and nutrients
• More convenient than a raw food diet

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste
• Can be crumbly and messy
• More expensive than other dog foods

We’ve been using Redbarn Grain Free 3lb Dog Food Roll in Beef for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its quality and convenience. The roll is packed with fresh meat and high-quality, garden-fresh ingredients, providing our dogs with a nutritious, high-protein diet. We also appreciate that it meets the nutritional levels established by AAFCO for all life stages, from puppies to senior dogs.

One of the things we like about this dog food is its low-temperature cooking process, which allows the food to retain vital minerals and nutrients. We’ve also noticed that our dogs’ digestion has improved since we started using this food, thanks to the functional ingredients like Sunflower Oil and Flaxseed that support digestion and a healthy skin and coat.

Another great thing about Redbarn Grain Free 3lb Dog Food Roll in Beef is its convenience. With over 50% fresh protein per roll, it’s more convenient than a raw food diet and can easily be stored without the need for refrigeration until opened. We’ve used it as a complete and balanced meal, as a protein supplement to dry food, a treat, a training tool, and an aid for administering medications.

However, we’ve noticed that some dogs might not like the taste of this food, and it can be crumbly and messy, making it difficult to handle. Additionally, it is more expensive than other dog foods, which might be a concern for some pet owners.

Overall, we highly recommend Redbarn Grain Free 3lb Dog Food Roll in Beef for its quality, convenience, and nutritional value.

Hill’s Science Diet

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food for its high-quality protein, natural fibers, and omega-6s that provide a beautiful coat.

Pros

• Made with natural ingredients
• Supports lean muscle growth and maintenance
• Packed with natural fibers to promote healthy digestion

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause an upset stomach in some dogs
• Not suitable for puppies

We were impressed with the high-quality protein source used in this dog food, which helps maintain lean muscles in adult dogs. The natural fibers in the food promote healthy digestion, which is essential for a happy and healthy dog. Additionally, the precise balance of omega-6s and vitamin E helps maintain a beautiful skin and coat.

While the food is made with natural ingredients, some dogs may not like the taste. Additionally, some dogs may experience an upset stomach when transitioning to this food. It’s important to note that this food is not suitable for puppies and should only be fed to adult dogs.

Overall, we believe Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is an excellent choice for adult dogs who need high-quality protein and natural fibers to maintain lean muscle and healthy digestion.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dry Dog Food because it is a high-quality dog food that is veterinarian recommended. It uses natural ingredients to provide the right balance of nutrients for your fully grown dog, ensuring a happy and healthy life.

Pros

• Uses high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients to fuel the specific energy needs of your full-grown dog
• Provides a precise balance of omega-6 and vitamin E to maintain a beautiful skin and a healthy coat
• Supports lean muscle growth and maintenance in your adult dog with a premium source of high-quality protein

Cons

• Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs
• The packaging can be a choking hazard, so it must be kept out of the reach of pets and children
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dry Dog Food. The natural fibers in the food promote healthy digestion, and the formula is specifically designed to make grown dogs come running for mealtime. We noticed that our dog’s coat was shinier and healthier after switching to this food.

However, we do want to note that this food is not recommended for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs, so it may not be the best choice for all dog owners. Additionally, the packaging can be a choking hazard, so it is important to keep it out of the reach of pets and children.

Overall, we believe that Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for fully grown dogs who need a nutritious and delicious meal.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food that won’t break the bank, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source for strong muscles.
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin help support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon aid in maintaining skin and coat health, while taurine helps support a healthy heart.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble smells and looks different than previous bags they’ve purchased.
• A few dogs have had trouble adjusting to this food and experienced digestive issues.
• While the price is reasonable, it may still be too expensive for some pet owners.

We recently tried this dog food with our own furry friend and were pleased with the results. The kibble is a decent size and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste. We also appreciated that real salmon is the number one ingredient, as we want to make sure our dog is getting high-quality protein in her diet.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported that the kibble looks and smells different than previous bags they’ve purchased. We didn’t experience this issue ourselves, but it’s worth keeping in mind. Additionally, a few dogs have had trouble adjusting to this food and experienced digestive issues, so it may not be the best choice for all dogs.

Overall, we think that Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a solid choice for pet owners looking for a nutritious and affordable dog food. While it may not be perfect for every dog, it’s definitely worth trying out to see if it works for yours.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Prairie Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Prairie Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food that’s high in protein and grain-free, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve
• No unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients
• Supports whole body health with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids

Cons

• Pricey compared to other dog foods
• Short expiry date
• Some reviewers have issues with the kibble not appearing to be raw coated

We’ve been feeding our dog Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food for a while now, and we’ve been impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste, and we love that it’s made with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients.

One of the things we like best about this dog food is that it’s high in protein and grain-free. It’s packed with responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources, and then coated with freeze-dried raw meat. This provides a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve. It’s also easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, and has no unnecessary fillers.

We’ve also noticed that our dog’s skin and coat have improved since we started feeding her this dog food. It’s fortified with omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil, which provide skin and coat support.

However, one downside to this dog food is that it’s pricey compared to other dog foods. Additionally, some reviewers have noted that the kibble doesn’t appear to be raw coated like the pictures advertise. Finally, it’s important to note that the item has a short expiry date.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a fresh dog food that’s high in protein and grain-free, and it’s made with only the finest ingredients.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe, 40 Pound Bag

If you want to provide your furry friend with a delicious and nutritious meal, Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient, providing protein to support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Peas and brown rice are highly digestible sources of carbohydrates that help support healthy digestion and provide energy.
• No artificial flavors or preservatives, poultry by-product meal, fillers, or added wheat or wheat gluten ingredients.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or allergies.
• The kibble size may not be ideal for all breeds of dogs.

We have been feeding our dog Rachael Ray Nutrish for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The kibble is a good size and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. We appreciate that the ingredients are high quality and there are no artificial additives. The price is also reasonable for the amount of food you get in each bag.

One potential downside is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble. Additionally, if your dog has specific dietary needs or allergies, this food may not be suitable for them. Lastly, the kibble size may not be ideal for all breeds of dogs, so it’s important to consider this before making a purchase.

Overall, we recommend giving Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food a try if you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable option for your furry friend.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef

If you’re looking for a high-quality fresh dog food that’s made with all-natural ingredients, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is a great option. Here’s what we found:

Pros

• Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: Pawstruck slowly oven roasts their food at a low temperature so each bite retains maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor.
• Real Beef is the #1 Ingredient: This single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe is made with 96% beef to satisfy your pup’s carnivore cravings and a 4% blend of flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, -amp; minerals to help support healthy joints and hips.
• Vet Recommended Complete Nutrition for All Life Stages: This healthy dog food is vet recommended, AAFCO Compliant, and made in an SQF (Safe Quality Food) certified facility.

Cons

• Expensive: Compared to other fresh dog food options, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is on the pricier side.
• Limited Flavors: While the beef flavor is popular, there are limited other flavor options available.
• Not Suitable for Dogs with Certain Allergies: This dog food contains beef, so it may not be suitable for dogs with beef allergies.

We tried this fresh dog food with our own furry friends and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value. The air-drying process helps to retain nutrients and flavor, and the real beef as the #1 ingredient is a great choice for dogs who love meat. We also appreciate that this dog food is made in the USA with only all-natural ingredients, and is free from fillers and preservatives.

While the price may be a bit steep for some, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value make it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a fresh dog food that’s made with high-quality ingredients and is vet recommended, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is definitely worth trying out.

JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Chicken -amp; White Rice

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food option, the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Chicken -amp; White Rice is a great choice.

Pros

• Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs and promotes a healthier coat and skin by boosting your furry friend’s immune system with whole-food ingredients.
• Comes with full recipe and step-by-step cooking instructions to ensure your dog gets a well-balanced diet.
• Formulated specifically for each recipe to meet AAFCO recommendations. The blend is compounded from 100% human-grade nutraceuticals regulated by the FDA.

Cons

• The DIY meals are only nutritionally balanced for long-term feeding when following the exact recipe and using the respective Nutrient Blend.
• The Nutrient Blend alone does not constitute a balanced meal, which is why they’re described as “intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding.”
• The DIY Nutrient Blend does not include the additional ingredients necessary to prepare the meal.

We recently tried the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Chicken -amp; White Rice, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the ease of use. The cooking guide included with the Nutrient Blend made it easy to purchase the necessary ingredients at our local market, and the step-by-step instructions made preparation a breeze.

Our dog loved the taste of the Chicken -amp; White Rice recipe, and we noticed an improvement in his coat and skin after just a few weeks of feeding him this fresh dog food. We also appreciated that the Nutrient Blend is formulated specifically for each recipe to meet AAFCO recommendations, and that it is compounded from 100% human-grade nutraceuticals regulated by the FDA.

However, we did find that the DIY meals are only nutritionally balanced for long-term feeding when following the exact recipe and using the respective Nutrient Blend. The Nutrient Blend alone does not constitute a balanced meal, which is why they’re described as “intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding.” Additionally, the DIY Nutrient Blend does not include the additional ingredients necessary to prepare the meal.

Overall, we would recommend the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Chicken -amp; White Rice to anyone looking for a fresh dog food option that is easy to prepare and nutritionally balanced for their furry friend.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best fresh dog food for your furry friend, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food are crucial to their overall health and well-being. When looking for fresh dog food, make sure to read the ingredient list carefully. Look for high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as healthy fats and carbohydrates. Avoid foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives.

Nutritional Value

In addition to high-quality ingredients, you’ll want to ensure that your dog’s food provides all the essential nutrients they need. Look for foods that are labeled “complete and balanced,” as these will contain all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Price

Fresh dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a product. However, it’s worth noting that investing in high-quality food can actually save you money in the long run by helping to prevent costly health issues down the line.

Packaging

Fresh dog 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 otherwise airtight, and be sure to follow any storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best fresh dog food for your furry friend and help them stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated fresh dog food brands according to expert reviews?

Based on expert reviews, some of the top-rated fresh dog food brands include NomNomNow, The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Pet Plate. These brands are known for using high-quality ingredients and providing balanced nutrition for dogs.

Which fresh dog food options are considered the most nutritious for dogs?

Fresh dog food options that are considered the most nutritious for dogs are those that use high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, beef, and fish. These options should also include a variety of fruits and vegetables to provide essential vitamins and minerals.

How do fresh dog food costs compare across different brands?

Fresh dog food costs can vary greatly across different brands. Some brands may offer more affordable options, while others may be more expensive due to the use of higher quality ingredients. It’s important to compare prices and ingredients to determine the best option for your dog and your budget.

What do veterinary professionals say about the benefits of fresh dog food?

Many veterinary professionals agree that fresh dog food can provide several benefits for dogs, including improved digestion, increased energy levels, and a healthier coat and skin. Fresh dog food can also be beneficial for dogs with certain health conditions, such as allergies or digestive issues.

Are there any fresh dog food brands that are recommended by veterinarians?

There are several fresh dog food brands that are recommended by veterinarians, including NomNomNow, The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Pet Plate. These brands use high-quality ingredients and provide balanced nutrition for dogs.

What homemade fresh dog food recipes provide balanced nutrition for dogs?

Homemade fresh dog food recipes can provide balanced nutrition for dogs, but it’s important to ensure that they include all of the necessary nutrients. Some homemade dog food recipes that provide balanced nutrition include recipes that use ingredients such as chicken, sweet potatoes, green beans, and carrots. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before making any homemade dog food to ensure that it meets your dog’s nutritional needs.