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The 10 Best Dog Food Delivery Services, Approved By Veterinarians
The best dog food delivery services are convenient, healthy and reasonably priced. But figuring out which dog service to opt for requires some shopping around. The good news: We consulted with three veterinarian behaviorists and nutritionists to share advice on which dog food delivery services are worth considering. After thoroughly evaluating some of the most popular options on the market, we narrowed down our list to the 10 best dog food delivery services that are worth considering. One such service is Nom Nom—our top pick for fresh dog food that's vet-approved and arrives in eco-friendly packaging. We also recommend Ollie Human-Grade Dog Food that offers nutritionally sound dog food developed by animal nutritionists.
The best dog food delivery services, such as Nom Nom Fresh Delivery, simplify life for humans and ... [+] add a tasty touch to the dining experience for their furry companions.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERIf you're looking for something different for your four-legged friend, we've researched (and tested) a variety of fresh dog food delivery options whether you need dry dog food, chow for a puppy or meals for a large breed. Or, if you're considering making the switch but don't know where to start, browse our buying guide: You'll be that much closer to getting customized, high-quality food for Fido delivered right to your doorstep. (It's also worth noting that consulting with your veterinarian before switching to a new meal service for your dog is advisable.) Without further ado, here are the best dog food delivery services in 2024.
Amount of options: Four pre-portioned recipesFrequency: Weekly, biweekly or monthly deliveriesAdditional offerings: SupplementsPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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Nom Nom offers well-balanced, fresh pre-portioned meals for both cats and dogs. Best of all, it comes highly recommended by several of the vets we spoke to. "Nom Nom is my personal favorite dog food delivery service," says Dr. Erica Irish, DVM, a veterinary advisor for Woof Whiskers. She adds that the brand's diets are crafted by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who follows guidelines established by Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Dr. Renee Streeter, DVM, DACVN, Veterinary Nutritionist, also noted that NomNom works closely with nutritionists to design their meals, and that they have supplements and kits to help manage your dog's microbiome.
Nom Nom's delivery service is easy to use—the brand sends pre-packaged meals directly to your doorstep. Each package has the name and a list of all the ingredients in it, so there's no question about what you're feeding your dog.
Nom Nom offers four dog recipes—Beef Mash, Chicken Cuisine, Pork Potluck and Turkey Fare—and you can select from several delivery frequencies, including every week, every two weeks or every four weeks. The pre-portioned meals cater to your pet's unique dietary needs and have been shown to improve energy in the first week and stamina after the first three months.
The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.
Amount of options: Four human-grade recipesFrequency: Weekly, biweekly or monthlyAdditional offerings: Healthy dog treatsPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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Ollie is another popular meal delivery service that gets a stamp of approval from Dr. Irish, who says the brand offers nutritionally sound dog food developed by animal nutritionists. There are four human-grade recipes to choose from, including beef, turkey, chicken and lamb. Each recipe also includes fruit (like blueberries and cranberries), plant-based proteins (like chickpeas, lentils, and peas), and leafy greens and root vegetables (like kale and sweet potatoes). Ollie does not use fillers, artificial flavorings or preservatives.
Dr. Streeter also notes that "Ollie only uses 100% human-grade ingredients which are highly digestible, and similar to PetPlate and NomNom, personalize its meal plans based on your dog's caloric needs."
Should you try it, the starter box has everything you need to get going, including two weeks' worth of packs that can be stored in your freezer until serving time, a feeding guide (customized based on the profile you filled out on your dog to help ensure the transition goes smoothly), a "pup-tainer" to store leftovers in and a serving scoop to help dish out portions.
What our editors say: "The packaging and easy-to-follow directions on how much to serve your particular pup made Ollie very simple," Forbes Vetted executive director Cory Baldwin noted after testing Ollie at home. "I was also shocked to find that some of the recipes actually smelled appetizing, and of course my dog went crazy for the stuff—especially the lamb flavor. The only drawback for me was finding room for all the meals in my freezer."
Amount of options: Six recipesPackaging: RecyclableAdditional offerings: Organic treats and supplement cookiesPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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PetPlate is a great option for anyone looking for a vet-recommended dog food delivery service that strips away the hassle of sourcing, cooking and measuring. Unlike other dog food delivery services, each day's meals also includes organic treats and supplement cookies that are meant to help with digestion and mobility.
Developed by Dr. Streeter, a board-certified veterinarian nutritionist, PetPlate's meals are a balanced option for dogs of any breed. "Depending on your dog's needs it is nice to have a diet that is made from whole meats, digestible carbohydrates, has various fiber sources and contains fruits, and vegetables," says Dr. Streeter.
Consequently, PetPlate meals are made with human-grade and whole ingredients—essentially, the same sorts of ingredients you're eating with a knife and fork. Meal options include Barkin' Beef, Chompin' Chicken, Tail Waggin' Turkey and Lip Lickin' Lamb.
To get started, PetPlate asks that you share your pup's unique characteristics to get a timely meal plan catered to fit their nutritional needs and preferences.
What our editors say: "I've been feeding my dogs PetPlate for several years now. I appreciate how easy it is to store and seal the lidded containers if I don't use everything in them at once, as well as how simple it is to swap in a new recipe with each order if you'd like to try something different," says managing editor Emmy Favilla. "I've always had dogs with various food allergies, and when we got my current pup, Gizmo, on the venison recipe right after adopting him, his skin issues cleared up and his coat started to look more glossy."
Amount of options: Four recipes and pre-portioned mealsFrequency: Anywhere between two and 12 weeksAdditional offerings: NoPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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While "human-grade" is a buzzword that brands throw around when describing dog food, it shouldn't be mistaken for something you can eat, too. Instead, the term refers to how the food is handled, not the actual ingredients used for making the meals. According to Tufts University, human-grade dog food must be stored, handled, processed and transported according to the same regulations used for human food. But with pet cancer, diabetes and obesity on the rise, some studies have shown that there is an increase in overall health when dogs consume fresh pet food versus the processed kind, which is why brands like Farmer's Dog lean into minimally processed human-grade food.
To start a personalized plan with Farmer's Dog, you'll need to enter information like your dog's breed, age, activity level, weight and food sensitivities. The food—made fresh under the guidance of a veterinarian to meet industry standards for dogs—are then shipped to your home a few days later as pre-portioned meals. There are no preservatives or fillers, nothing is processed, and all of the ingredients used meet the USDA standards for human consumption.
While most dog food delivery services offer recyclable packaging, Farmer's Dog goes a step further and offers packaging made of a cornstarch wrap that literally melts away when run under hot water in the sink. Each package also has your dog's name on it, so you know for sure that it was customized specifically for them.
What our editors say: "We slowly transitioned our mixed breed puppy to Farmer's Dog—and now she finishes the bowl every day where her food used to just sit untouched!" shares deputy editor Rose Sala, whose puppy had suddenly lost interest in her food. "I love that it lands on my doorstep, so I no longer need to panic buy her food the night we run out."
Amount of options: CustomizedFrequency: Two to six weeksAdditional offerings: Bulk patties, treats and bonesPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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Raw diets, which involve feeding your dog raw meats, organs and bone, have become increasingly popular over the last few years. Despite their rising popularity, raw diets are somewhat controversial and not recommended by all vets. Dr. Irish warns there's an increased risk of illness—most notably caused by salmonella and E.Coli—for both you and your pet.
But according to Dr. Countner, some dogs do well on this kind of diet and if you want to feed your pet a raw diet, delivery services offer safely prepared meals to minimize your own handling of raw meat. "There are some great raw foods on the market that are well balanced, safely prepared with minimal pathogen risk and that dogs love," says Dr. Countner.
When it comes to choosing a meal delivery service that sends raw food to your doorstep, We Feed Raw is one of the most popular options, offering meal plans that consist of 80% muscle meat, 10% organ meat and 10% edible bone, as well as a vitamin and mineral mix. The recipes are formulated by an animal nutritionist, and the brand uses USDA human-grade meats from farms in the USA. There are no preservatives, artificial flavors, added antibiotics or hormones. The brand also offers meal plans, bulk patties, treats and bones. Plus, all ingredients are subject to high-pressure processing, designed to neutralize pathogenic bacteria.
Amount of options: Four recipes and three life stagesFrequency: Choose your own frequencyAdditional offerings: Snack bars and meal toppersPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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For pup parents who want to go the "raw" route but prefer the convenience of kibble, Maev is an excellent option. Each bag of food contains a balanced mixture of human-grade ingredients that are also USDA-Certified and AAFCO-approved (just note that they're not specified as "organic," specifically, in case that's important to you). All of the company's products are also made in the USA. The food is frozen and bite-sized, so you can fill Fido's bowl straight from the freezer without worrying about a raw meat mess. What's more, this frozen variety has a much longer shelf life—in other words, there's no need to worry about wasting money on uneaten, expired meals.
Maev offers some customizability based on your pup's health needs and life stage, from puppyhood to adulthood and all the way through to the golden years. You can choose from four recipe formulations designed to encourage hip and joint health, help with weight and digestion, calm anxiety and even benefit the skin and coat. The frequency and size of deliveries are up to you, too; subscribe in weekly increments from once a week to every 10 weeks, and order anywhere from 10 to 80 pounds of food per shipment (if you're unsure how much to get, there's an option to "customize portions" based on your dog's size, weight and age).
The company offers add-ons, too, including supplement bars and bone broth meal toppers that come in frozen cubes you can sprinkle into your pooch's bowl. Health-centric bundles are also available to help you cater to your canine's individual needs, and as an added bonus, Maev's packaging is biodegradable, compostable and recyclable.
What our editors say: "I found Maev to be an incredibly convenient way to add fresh, raw food to my senior dog's diet," shares senior updates editor Karen Tietjen. "Pouring the frozen chunks into her bowl was as easy as scooping out kibble, and I didn't have to worry about any messy prep (and subsequent fears of contamination)."
Amount of options: 15 recipesFrequency: Weekly, biweekly, quarterly or 12-week basisAdditional offerings: DIY homemade food kits, treats, PantryFresh foodPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
New customers who sign up for Autoship get 50% off their first order.
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JustFoodForDogs focuses on making well-balanced daily meals for healthy pets and those who need extra help due to medical needs, emphasizing that it works closely with veterinary nutritionists to design their meals. Dr. Streeter also points out that JustFoodForDogs has prescription meals.
For prescription meals, the process is a bit more involved. Pet parents submit their dog's medical records and the JustFoodForDogs nutritional team builds a customized diet. Once the diet formulation is complete, you have two options: prepared or DIY.
The prepared diets operate much like others on this list, with the brand making and packaging the meals in their custom kitchens to be sent to you. For the DIY option, you prepare your dog's food yourself and JustFoodForDogs prepares a custom nutrient blend to include. The blend is meant to pair with your specific pet's diet to ensure it's complete. Of course, you should always consult with your own veterinarian before switching your dog's diet, especially if they have medical issues.
Amount of options: HundredsFrequency: Choose your own frequencyAdditional offerings: Treats, dog toys, accessories and morePersonalized plans: NoAAFCO-Compliant: Varies from brand to brand
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If you're happy with your dog's current kibble or wet food diet, you can still get the convenience of delivery through Chewy. The online pet retailer sells dog and cat food from top brands like Hill's Science Diet, Purina, Iams, Pedigree and more, and you can use the AutoShip feature to have pet supplies delivered on a customized recurring schedule. Plus, many products are available for discounted prices when you sign up for AutoShip, helping to save you money each month.
Additionally, Chewy is known for superb customer service—to ensure you're happy with your purchase, Chewy allows you to return items for up to a year.
What our editors say: Chewy's home delivery is a favorite of several Forbes Vetted editors, "I use Chewy for food and medicine for my pets," says Forbes staff member Jordan Thomas. Tech editor Rebecca Isaacs also subscribes from Chewy. "We were in search of a special kidney treatment food and finding it was a total pain, but it was on Chewy and we opted to auto-ship. It was a simple process at checkout and we could choose how frequently it shows up."
Amount of options: Six protein optionsFrequency: Weekly, biweekly, quarterly or eight-week basisAdditional offerings: YesPersonalized plans: YesAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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If you're not looking to ditch dry kibble but still want a better option for your pup, try Spot & Tango's UnKibble. Unlike traditional kibble, this UnKibble is made without meat meals or powdered "mystery meats," and it's available in three flavors: Beef & Barley, Chicken & Brown Rice and Cod & Salmon.
Like others on this list, Spot & Tango offers ready-to-serve meals made with no artificial additives, preservatives or fillers. The brand's fresh recipes are made from only a dozen non-GMO and hormone-free ingredients, and each one is complete and balanced for puppies and adults according to AAFCO's nutritional standards. Recipes include Turkey and Red Quinoa, Beef and Millet and Lamb and Brown Rice.
Amount of options: Two flavorsFrequency: Choose your frequencyAdditional offerings: TreatsPersonalized plans: NoAAFCO-Compliant: Yes
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Good for your dog and good for the planet, Jiminy's is known for their commitment to making tasty, sustainable dog food. The brand uses insect protein (largely cricket) and complex carbohydrates (like oats, sweet potato and flax seed), both necessary for maintaining healthy muscles and joints, as well as giving your dog the energy to play and go for walks. It's also hypoallergenic, meaning it's good for dogs who have allergies or tend to get upset stomachs.
What makes it stand out, though, is how small of a footprint it has compared to other dog food brands, because it uses less water and less land to produce. For instance, Jiminy's uses 67% less land than a brand that uses chickens and saves 220 gallons of water per bag. At $59 for a 10 pound bag, it's more expensive than many of the dry food bags you'd find in your local pet food store, but given the quality and eco-friendliness, we're here for it.
Why Trust Forbes VettedThe Forbes Vetted editors have conducted extensive research on pet products, including many articles specifically dedicated to sleuthing out the best dog food on the market.
How We Chose The Best Dog Food Delivery ServicesMany factors went into narrowing down the best dog food delivery services including popularity, convenience, variety and overall value. Here's what else we kept in mind:
As you shop for the perfect dog food delivery service for your pet, we recommend first considering general aspects like the nutritional intake essential to keep your pet happy and healthy, as well as a plan that's convenient and works with your schedule and budget. You should also look out for AAFCO approval and strong endorsements by veterinarians:
BudgetThis is arguably the most important factor to consider when selecting a dog food delivery service. After all, these options vary in price, and it's a good idea to be cognizant of your own spending limits. Word to the wise: Be sure to factor in the number of shipments offered within each price bracket.
NutritionBefore investing in any dog food delivery service, take a look at the specific ingredients that make up the brand's offerings. Take a cue from Dr. Ian Dunbar, a leading veterinarian and animal behaviorist: "First up would be a complete and highly digestible protein to ensure your dog has all ten essential amino acids," he advises. "Second, a good source of fiber, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals. Third, the food should be cooked at a low temperature to ensure all the nutrients remain intact." At the end of the day, your dog's ideal diet might not be all that dissimilar to yours: It might include fresh or raw meats, digestible carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables.
Customizable PlansPersonalized meal plans for your dog can sometimes be more costly, but that sort of customization might be worth it to you. Just like humans, all dogs have different needs, which means they can't all eat the same exact food. Delivery services that allow you to input information about your dog, like their weight, breed and dietary restrictions, can result in food that better suit's your dogs individual needs.
Expert EndorsementCheck whether the meals are made or vetted by licensed veterinarians or pet nutritionists on the brand's staff. "By having a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist on staff, they are ensuring that pet food is well-balanced, since dogs' and cats' needs are different than humans," says Dr. Countner.
AAFCO ApprovalAn approval from the Association of American Feed Control (AAFCO) is an assurance that your pet's meal is nutritionally complete or balanced. Before you hit the checkout button, make sure to look for an AAFCO statement on the back of the dog food bag, box or can.
What Is The Most Affordable Dog Food Delivery Service?Dog food delivery services can range in price from as cheap as $5 to as expensive as $150. Ultimately, the price depends on the frequency of delivery and the number of shipments offered within various price brackets. The most affordable dog food delivery service on our list is Chewy—kibble starts at just $4—but if you're looking for an affordable fresh dog food delivery option, we recommend Ollie, which has human-grade options starting at $60 per month.
What Is The Best Delivery Dog Food Service??If you're looking to switch your dog over to a dog food delivery service, this is likely the question on your mind. In general, the best service is one that provides recipes customized to your dog's health, medical and dietary needs. You want to be sure that your dog is getting what's right for them. Additionally, the service should use whole, fresh ingredients that are minimally processed and packed with dog-friendly nutrients. Finally, check whether the service has veterinarians and nutritionists on staff. If a service can check off all the things above, it's safe to say they're a solid option.
Are Dog Food Subscriptions Worth It?If you have the budget and storage space available, yes. Dog food subscriptions can make life for both you and your dog easier in a number of ways. They're definitely more convenient; for one thing, you'll never run out of dog food so you don't have to frantically run to the store on a random day. Meals are customized to your dog's specific nutritional needs, keeping their health in mind. That said, again, you have to take your budget and storage space into account. Dog food subscriptions are expensive and often demand extra room in your freezer or refrigerator, as most meals need to be kept frozen. In the end, "this really depends on the dog's needs as well as the human's," says Dr. Streeter.
What Dog Food Is Comparable To Farmer's Dog?While Farmer's Dog is our top pick for the best human-grade dog food, it is one of the more expensive options on the market. If you're seeking comparable meals at a lower price point, consider Nom Nom, Ollie and PetPlate. These brands also specialize in delivering homemade-style dog food made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
9 Most Food-Obsessed Dog Breeds You'll Want To Watch At Mealtime
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Every dog loves food, but some take their love to the next level! These food-obsessed pups can't seem to get enough, and their world often revolves around their next meal.
From eagerly searching for snacks to guarding their bowls, these dogs may act like they're always hungry, and their strong attachment to food can even make them a bit possessive. If you find yourself constantly thinking, "My dog is obsessed with food!" you're not alone.
There isn't one clear reason why some dogs become obsessed with food. It could be due to psychological factors, medications, health conditions, or metabolic issues. Figuring out the cause of your dog's food obsession is key to helping them overcome it.
Some breeds are simply born with bigger appetites, and we've put together a list of the top food-obsessed dog breeds that are sure to keep you on your toes (and maybe in the kitchen).
Let's dive in!
Most Food-Obsessed Dog Breeds 1. BeagleBeagles are famous for their never-ending appetite and will eat just about anything they can find. Unlike many other dogs, Beagles don't seem to know when to stop eating and may overeat if given the chance. Their powerful sense of smell helps them locate food from far away, and they're known for being clever enough to open cabinets or jump on tables to snag a snack.
Beagles make great family dogs, but they can get into mischief if left alone for too long. According to Greencross Vets, their playful nature can lead them to chew on anything within reach if they're bored. While not all Beagles howl, they are known for being vocal and may bark, howl, or yelp when they encounter something unfamiliar.
Because of their strong food drive, Beagles will eat as much food as you give them, so it's important to feed them only at set times with measured portions to prevent overeating and avoid health issues.
2. Labrador RetrieverLabrador Retrievers are known for being one of the most food-obsessed dog breeds, and this can be traced back to their genes. Many Labradors have a genetic mutation in a gene called POMC, which makes them feel hungry all the time.
This means they're always looking for food, even though they don't actually need more to feel full. With their fast metabolism and constant hunger, it can be challenging to keep them slim, but it's possible with strict feeding and regular exercise.
Around 25% of Labradors are affected by this mutation, leading to an increased obsession with food. Owners need to be mindful of their dog's diet and activity levels to prevent obesity, as these dogs are always on the lookout for their next meal. Despite their food cravings, with the right care, Labradors can maintain a healthy weight.
3. English BulldogEnglish Bulldogs are definitely food-motivated and love their meals. Their less active lifestyle means they can easily gain weight if not carefully monitored. Bulldogs are always on high alert when food is around, which makes them one of the more food-obsessed breeds. Due to their stocky build, it's essential to keep their portions in check and ensure they get regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Some dog foods are specially designed for Bulldogs, with kibble shapes that make eating easier and ingredients that support their joint, skin, and digestive health. It's a good idea to consult your vet to find the best diet for your Bulldog.
Since Bulldogs are so food-driven, it's important to avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats—these should make up no more than 10% of their daily intake, and if your pup is already overweight, cutting back on treats is recommended.
4. Cavalier King Charles SpanielThe Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a true charmer, with their silky fur and soulful eyes winning hearts everywhere. However, when it comes to food, these little dogs don't seem to have an "off switch."
Cavaliers will eagerly eat anything in sight, even if they're not hungry. Their strong food motivation makes them great for training and bonding with their families, but it also means they can easily gain weight if not exercised regularly.
Cavaliers are a perfect blend of homebodies and adventurers—they love snuggling on the sofa but are also full of energy when it's time to play. To keep them healthy, it's important to manage their food portions and limit treats, as they can quickly become overweight without proper balance.
5. DachshundDachshunds are known for their love of food and strong appetites, making them highly food-motivated. While their active nature can contribute to this, their food obsession can easily lead to obesity if not managed carefully.
Due to their long bodies, Dachshunds are especially prone to weight-related back problems, so portion control and regular exercise are essential for keeping them healthy. These little gluttons will do just about anything for a tasty treat, but it's important to keep training sessions short and rewards small to avoid weight gain.
Dachshunds also love to dig, so incorporating digging into playtime is a great way to keep them engaged. Always remember that Dachshunds enjoy being the center of attention and thrive on praise for a job well done!
6. Shetland SheepdogThe Shetland Sheepdog, or "Sheltie," may surprise some by being food-obsessed, but this comes from their intelligence and eagerness to please. As herding dogs, Shelties love treats, making them incredibly trainable.
When feeding them, it's important to follow the food label instructions based on their size, splitting the amount between morning and evening meals to avoid overfeeding.
According to AKC, Shelties are bright and eager learners, excelling in obedience, agility, and herding trials. They're also affectionate family dogs, sensitive to their household's emotions. With their love of barking and natural reserve around strangers, Shelties make excellent watchdogs while remaining loving companions at home.
7. Pembroke Welsh CorgiPembroke Welsh Corgis are known for their herding abilities and irresistible charm, which they often use to their advantage when it comes to getting extra snacks. These determined dogs have a knack for finding anything remotely edible, whether it's their own food, the cat's leftovers, or a treat on the sidewalk. Corgis are highly food-motivated, which can be helpful during training but also makes them prone to overeating.
To keep them healthy, it's recommended to feed Pembroke Welsh Corgis ¾ to 1 ½ cups of high-quality dry food per day, split into two or three meals. Orvis states that using food-dispensing puzzle toys can also help slow down their eating and provide mental stimulation.
With their love for food and their eager-to-please nature, Corgis can easily excel in training as long as their meals are properly managed!
8. Basset HoundBasset Hounds, with their droopy expressions and sweet, loyal nature, are known for their love of food. These charming, medium-sized dogs are low-key and easygoing, rarely getting too excited. Bred to be slow hunters with a keen sense of smell, Basset Hounds still enjoy spending time with their humans. However, their hunting background has given them an insatiable appetite, making them prone to overeating and obesity.
Although Basset Hounds are not the most athletic dogs and are content with a laid-back lifestyle, they still require daily moderate exercise to stay fit and healthy. According to PetMD, regular walks and light activity help keep them in shape and prevent weight-related health issues.
Due to their tendency to overeat, Basset Hounds are at a higher risk for joint and back problems, so it's important to carefully monitor their diet and portion their food appropriately. Keeping their weight in check is key to ensuring they stay healthy and happy.
9. PugPugs, with their adorable wrinkles and expressive faces, are well-known for their love of food. However, their barrel-shaped bodies and flat faces make them more susceptible to health issues if they gain extra weight, particularly breathing problems. While Pugs have a natural tendency to overeat, obesity can be avoided with proper care.
Pugs are often fond of begging for food scraps at the table, making portion control essential to prevent overeating. A balanced diet is key to maintaining a healthy weight and energy levels, with some Pugs favoring meals like home-cooked chicken and rice.
To manage their food obsession, it's also important to teach Pugs the "leave it" command, helping them develop boundaries around snacks.
ConclusionWhen it comes to the most food-obsessed breeds, there's no denying that many dogs can develop a strong love for food. Some breeds, originally bred for specific tasks like herding or hunting, tend to have an even stronger drive for food, often using their irresistible puppy dog eyes to beg for extra treats or food at the table. While these furry friends can be a joy to train, thanks to their food motivation, it's important to maintain a balanced diet and proper portion control to prevent overeating and obesity.
Whether it's a Labrador, Beagle, or even a Pug, these food-loving dogs are adored by their families. Of course, every dog breed has its unique traits, and while some breeds are more food-obsessed than others, the love we share for our furry friends remains the same. Remember, the American Kennel Club provides valuable information on the needs of different breeds, but keeping our dogs healthy is key—no matter how persuasive those puppy dog eyes may be.
The Best Fresh Dog Food In 2024, Tested And Reviewed
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The best fresh dog food is made of gently cooked, whole-food ingredients, and you can typically schedule convenient delivery right to your front door. But keep in mind, while you may like to feed your dog fresh food, experts say it's not necessarily better than kibble or canned food. However, if you're looking to make the switch, some fresh dog food brands rise above others in this relatively new market.
To make my recommendations for this guide, I consulted two board-certified veterinary nutritionists and a food safety expert to learn what to look for in fresh pet food. I then tried six popular brands with my 50-pound dog, Lyla, feeding her food from each brand for at least a week. My top pick is JustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen meals, which include a large variety of easy-to-feed recipes backed by pet nutrition research.
Ultimately, the best fresh food for your dog depends on many factors, including your pet's preferences and your veterinarian's advice. Any food you feed your dog should meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for complete and balanced nutrition. The veterinarians I spoke to also recommend choosing foods from companies that meet the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Guidelines. Among fresh pet food companies, only JustFoodForDogs, Nom Nom, and The Farmer's Dog meet all of the WSAVA guidelines.
Fresh dog food lacks preservatives and has a shorter shelf life than our kibble and canned picks for the best dog food. To prevent spoilage, be sure to follow storage and feeding directions.
Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best fresh dog foodBest overall: JustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen Dog Food - See at JustFoodforDogs
Best runner-up: Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food - See at Nom Nom
Best overallWith a range of protein options and competitive pricing, JustFoodForDogs is the best fresh dog food delivery service I tested. The company meets all of the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, which include employing a full-time veterinary nutritionist or doctorate-level animal nutritionist. The WSAVA guidelines help ensure food safety and high nutritional value in pet food, says Dr. Emily Luisana, a veterinary nutritionist at Friendship Hospital for Animals. The company also conducted feeding trials to prove the nutrition and digestibility of its food, something rare in the fresh pet food space.
JustFoodForDogs has six main Fresh Frozen recipes, half of which are grain-inclusive. The chicken and fish recipes are for all life stages, including puppies, and the turkey, beef, venison, and lamb options are for adult dogs. You can also order recipes for sensitive stomachs and joint support, a rotation of seasonal and limited-time recipes, and prescription diets formulated by in-house veterinary nutritionists. Food is divided into 18-ounce packages and sold in small (7.8 lbs.), medium (23.5 lbs.), or large (31.5 lbs.) boxes. Each package should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight and fed within five days of opening. Although it's a minor inconvenience, you'll need to portion out the recommended servings for your dog.
My pup loved both of the JustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen recipes. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderI tried the Beef & Russet Potato and Lamb & Brown Rice recipes. My dog's preferences skew picky, but she loved them both. On the other hand, I was a bit surprised that the food's consistency closely resembled canned food. Dr. Korinn Saker, an associate professor of clinical nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University, says fresh dog food is made with ingredients in their whole form, gently cooked, and then frozen to retain freshness. So, while it doesn't matter if the food is ground up or left whole, it may not be the best choice if you want to see the individual ingredients in your dog's bowl.
To get started with JustFoodForDogs, use the brand's convenient feeding calculator to get recipe and portion recommendations based on your dog's age, weight, allergies, and more. Then, you can order directly from JustFoodForDogs or at Chewy, Petco, or Amazon, all of which offer similar auto-shipping discounts.
Best runner-up Nom Nom Fresh Dog FoodNom Nom ships easy-to-serve preoportioned fresh meals and offers an excellent two-week trial.
Nom Nom is a fresh dog food delivery service that offers four tasty recipes in preportioned packages. I was impressed by the simple, easy-to-navigate website, and signup was easy. In addition to following the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, the brand conducts research to test the efficacy of its food.
A subscription will cost you about the same as JustFoodForDogs, but Nom Nom didn't snag the top spot because its protein options are limited to chicken, beef, turkey, and pork, and only the turkey recipe is grain-inclusive. You can only select up to two recipes for your dog's meal plan. I do like that the recipes are formulated for all life stages, including puppies.
Nom Nom's fresh dog food arrives frozen in preportioned servings. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderI fed my dog the pork, chicken, and turkey recipes. She preferred the pork and turkey over the chicken, gobbling them up quickly at almost every meal. I found the food can be dry, especially when not immediately eaten. While dryness isn't a nutrition concern, food left out too long is. Dr. Teresa Morishita, professor of poultry medicine and food safety at Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, says fresh dog food is at a greater risk of spoiling if left for hours, so be sure to toss promptly if your dog doesn't finish their meal. You can read more about my experience in my full Nom Nom dog food review.
Nom Nom's two-week trial is a great way to get started, but you can also order a sampler pack instead. Chewy and Petsmart sell individual packages, too, but you won't get the convenience of preportioned servings.
What else we testedThe services below rated lower than my top picks. The Farmer's Dog meets the AAFCO standards and WSAVA guidelines but has more limited recipe offerings than our top two picks.
While I had good experiences feeding PetPlate, Ollie, and Open Farm, all three companies lack a full-time veterinary nutritionist or PhD-level nutrition expert — something all the experts I interviewed recommend.
The Farmer's Dog Fresh Dog FoodThe Farmer's Dog is a well-established fresh dog food company offering four grain-free recipes in portions customized for your pet.
Founded in 2014, The Farmer's Dog is one of the first fresh dog food subscription services. What sets it apart is its customized portions. Each package has the exact amount of food your dog needs, so all you have to do is thaw and serve. During signup, you can choose up to three all-life-stages recipes (beef, turkey, chicken, pork), but none contain grains, an option I'd like to see.
The Farmer's Dog meets all of the WSAVA guidelines, but some of the claims on its website imply that fresh food is superior to shelf-stable kibble and wet food, and there's not enough evidence to support those claims.
If you'd like to learn more about The Farmer's Dog recipes before subscribing, you'll need to go through the signup questionnaire and provide your email address. You can also learn more in my full The Farmer's Dog review. This seems like an unnecessary step, especially since the other brands featured in our guide provide easily accessible details for recipes.
PetPlate Fresh Dog FoodPetPlate is the only fresh dog food service that lets you order all six recipes as part of your subscription.
PetPlate is the only fresh dog food subscription service that allows you to include any number of recipes in your dog's meal plan. Saker says variety isn't necessarily important in a dog's diet as long as you provide the same nutritional value at each meal. However, some people may want the option to try a variety of recipes. Even more, rather than signing up for a full meal plan, you can order smaller portions to supplement your dog's regular kibble.
Unlike JustFoodForDogs and Nom Nom, PetPlate falls short of meeting all of the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines. For one, its food is produced in facilities owned by co-manufacturers. The company also does not employ a full-time animal nutrition expert, but the recipes are formulated by Dr. Renee Streeter, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and consultant to PetPlate.
I like that no matter which recipes you choose, you can access a detailed feeding guide via your PetPlate account. The guide includes instructions for portioning, storing, and heating your dog's food, which is particularly useful since our dog prefers warm food. My dog tried the Lip Lickin' Lamb and the Tail Waggin' Turkey. She enjoyed both, although I had to add broth to keep her interested during the last half of our trial period. PetPlate arrives in 20-ounce containers. It was easy to measure out portions, but it would be nice if the meals came in preportioned packages.
If you're sensitive to strong odors, this might not be the best service for you. The food has an odor that may be off-putting to some people, but my dog didn't mind it one bit.
Ollie Fresh Dog FoodOllie has a nice variety of recipes and the option to combine any four in your plan, but it's also one of the priciest fresh dog foods you can buy.
Ollie sells its fresh dog food exclusively through its subscription service. The company offers excellent recipe variety, an easy-to-follow feeding guide, and provides a convenient storage container and scooper. With your subscription, you can select up to four of the five recipes for all life stages, including three grain-inclusive options.
Regarding customization and variety, Ollie comes close to PetPlate but also comes at a higher price. To save money, you can subscribe to smaller portions to supplement your dog's regular kibble. Like PetPlate, Ollie doesn't employ a full-time nutrition expert but instead consults with two board-certified veterinary nutritionists, falling short of the WSAVA guidelines.
Recently, Ollie began offering some complementary health screening services that may seem like a nice bonus, but veterinarians advise against these virtual screenings. If you have concerns about your dog's weight or stool consistency, your veterinarian should always be the person to evaluate your pet.
Open Farm bills itself as an ethical and sustainable alternative to other commercial pet food. Depending on the recipe, you may see certifications from Certified Humane, Global Animal Partnership, and Ocean Wise, and you can view the sources of each food's ingredients on its product page. Open Farm also participates in the TerraCycle program, although you must save and ultimately ship the used packaging for recycling for it to have any benefit.<
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