In this detailed report, we will provide a comprehensive review of the top grain-free dog food options, highlighting the pros and cons of each brand.

We will also discuss the safety of grain-free diets, the importance of consulting with a veterinarian before making any dietary changes, and other factors to consider when selecting the best grain-free dog food for your pet.

1. Spot & Tango

Spot & Tango is a leading brand in the world of premium, grain-free dog food. They offer fresh, human-grade, and customizable meal plans, which cater to your dog’s specific dietary needs and preferences.

Spot & Tango uses only high-quality, whole ingredients to ensure your dog receives the best nutrition possible.

Pros:

• Fresh, human-grade ingredients
• Customizable meal plans based on your dog’s needs
• No artificial preservatives or additives
• Pre-portioned meals for convenience

Cons:

• Price may be higher compared to other brands
• Subscription service may not suit all pet owners

2. PetPlate

PetPlate is a popular choice for pet owners looking for grain-free dog food options. They offer a range of freshly-cooked, human-grade meals that are customized to your dog’s nutritional needs.

With a focus on using only the highest quality ingredients, PetPlate ensures your dog receives the best nutrition possible.

Pros:

• Freshly cooked, human-grade meals
• Customized meal plans
• High-quality ingredients
• Pre-portioned meals for convenience

Cons:

• More expensive than other brands
• Subscription service may not suit all pet owners

3. Just Food for Dogs

Just Food for Dogs offers a variety of grain-free dog food options made from fresh, whole-food ingredients. They prioritize using only the highest quality ingredients, ensuring your dog receives complete and balanced nutrition.

Just Food for Dogs also provides custom meal plans tailored to your pet’s specific dietary needs and preferences.

Pros:

• Fresh, whole-food ingredients
• Custom meal plans
• High-quality ingredients
• Wide variety of recipes

Cons:

• Price may be higher compared to other brands
• Subscription service may not suit all pet owners

4. Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble

Wellness Core offers a line of grain-free kibble that focuses on providing a high-protein, nutrient-dense diet for your dog.

Their recipes are formulated with quality ingredients and exclude common allergens, making them suitable for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.

Pros:

• High-protein, nutrient-dense formula
• Quality ingredients
• Wide variety of recipes available
• Suitable for dogs with sensitivities or allergies

Cons:

• Dry kibble may not be as appealing as fresh food options
• May not be suitable for all dogs due to high protein content

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5. American Journey Grain-Free

American Journey offers a range of grain-free dog food options, including both dry kibble and wet food. Their recipes are formulated with high-quality ingredients

and focus on providing a balanced, nutritious diet for your dog. American Journey is a more budget-friendly option compared to some of the premium brands on this list.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• High-quality ingredients
• Wide variety of recipes available
• Both dry kibble and wet food options

Cons:

• May not be as customizable as other brands
• Lower protein content compared to some other grain-free options

6. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food

Taste of the Wild is a popular grain-free dog food brand that offers both dry kibble and wet food options. Their recipes focus on using high-quality, natural ingredients inspired by the ancestral diet of dogs.

Taste of the Wild prioritizes providing a balanced, nutritious diet for your dog at an affordable price point.

Pros:

• Affordable
• High-quality, natural ingredients
• Wide variety of recipes available
• Both dry kibble and wet food options

Cons:

• May not be as customizable as other brands
• Some dogs may not find the taste appealing

7. Orijen Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Orijen is a reputable brand known for its high-quality, biologically appropriate dog food. Their grain-free dry dog food focuses on providing a nutrient-dense diet that closely resembles the natural diet of dogs. Orijen’s recipes emphasize fresh, whole ingredients, including an impressive variety of animal proteins, fruits, and vegetables.

Pros:

• High-quality, natural ingredients
• Emphasis on fresh, whole animal proteins
• Wide variety of recipes available, catering to different life stages and dietary needs
• High protein content, mimicking a dog’s natural diet
• No artificial additives, fillers, or by-products

Cons:

• May be more expensive compared to other grain-free options
• Limited wet food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific protein allergies or sensitivities

Is a Grain-Free Diet Safe for Dogs?

While many dogs can benefit from a grain-free diet, it’s essential to understand that not all dogs require this type of diet. Some dogs may have grain sensitivities or allergies, making grain-free food a suitable option for them.

However, recent research has indicated a potential link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs (more on that below).

It’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes, as they will be able to recommend the best course of action based on your dog’s specific needs.

Why is the FDA Concerned About Grain-Free Dog Food?

In recent years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expressed concerns about grain-free dog food and its potential link to a specific heart condition known as canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) [1]. This condition affects the heart muscle, causing it to enlarge and weaken, which can ultimately lead to heart failure. While DCM has been documented in certain breeds with a genetic predisposition, the FDA has observed an increasing number of cases in breeds not typically prone to the condition. This has prompted an investigation into the potential connection between grain-free diets and DCM.

1. Potential Nutritional Imbalances

One theory behind the FDA’s concern is that grain-free dog foods may have nutritional imbalances that contribute to the development of DCM. Specifically, researchers are investigating whether grain-free diets are deficient in an essential amino acid called taurine, which plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health. Some grain-free dog foods replace grains with alternative carbohydrate sources, such as legumes, lentils, and potatoes, which may have lower taurine levels or inhibit taurine absorption. However, the relationship between these ingredients, taurine deficiency, and DCM is still not fully understood and remains under investigation.

2. The Role of Exotic Proteins

Another aspect of grain-free dog food that has drawn the attention of the FDA is the use of exotic proteins, such as kangaroo, alligator, or bison. These uncommon protein sources may have different amino acid profiles compared to more traditional proteins, such as chicken or beef. Researchers are exploring whether these exotic proteins may contribute to taurine deficiency or other nutritional imbalances that could increase the risk of DCM.

3. Lack of Long-Term Studies

The FDA’s concern also stems from the fact that there are limited long-term studies on the effects of grain-free diets in dogs. As grain-free dog food has become increasingly popular, more dogs are consuming these diets without a comprehensive understanding of their long-term impact on canine health. The FDA’s investigation aims to fill this knowledge gap and determine whether grain-free diets are safe and nutritionally appropriate for dogs in the long term.

It’s important to note that the FDA has not reached any definitive conclusions about the link between grain-free dog food and DCM, and the investigation is ongoing. In the meantime, pet owners should consult with their veterinarians before transitioning their dogs to a grain-free diet or if they have concerns about their dog’s current grain-free diet. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can make informed decisions about your dog’s nutrition and ensure their long-term health and well-being.

Consult with Your Vet Before Starting a Grain-Free Diet

Before transitioning your dog to a grain-free diet, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you determine whether a grain-free diet is appropriate for your dog based on their specific health needs and dietary requirements.

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Your veterinarian may also recommend certain brands or products that are best suited for your dog.

Other Factors to Consider About Grain-Free Diets for Dogs

When choosing a grain-free diet for your dog, there are several factors you should consider beyond the potential benefits of eliminating grains from their diet. The following points can help you make a well-informed decision and ensure that your dog receives optimal nutrition.

1. Quality of Ingredients

When selecting a grain-free dog food, it’s crucial to prioritize high-quality ingredients. Look for brands that use whole, natural ingredients and avoid those that rely on artificial additives, fillers, or by-products. A grain-free diet should still be nutritionally balanced, providing your dog with the essential nutrients they need for overall health.

2. Protein Sources

Grain-free dog food typically has a higher protein content than traditional dog food, as it relies on protein-rich ingredients to replace grains. However, it’s essential to consider the quality of protein sources. Look for dog food that uses high-quality, easily digestible protein sources such as lean meats, poultry, and fish. Avoid dog foods that use low-quality protein sources, such as meat meals and by-products, which can be harder for your dog to digest.

3. Carbohydrate Sources

While grain-free dog food eliminates grains, it still needs to provide an energy source through alternative carbohydrates. Look for dog foods that use healthy, easily digestible carbohydrate sources, such as sweet potatoes, peas, and chickpeas. These ingredients not only provide energy but also offer essential nutrients and dietary fiber.

4. Nutritional Balance

A well-balanced diet is crucial for your dog’s overall health. Make sure the grain-free dog food you choose provides a complete and balanced diet, meeting all the necessary nutrient requirements for your dog’s specific life stage and activity level. Check the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement on the dog food label to ensure it meets the appropriate nutritional guidelines.

5. Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Some dogs may benefit from a grain-free diet due to food allergies or sensitivities. However, it’s important to note that grains are not the only potential allergen in dog food. Some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to other ingredients, such as certain proteins or additives. It’s essential to work with your veterinarian to identify and address any specific allergies or sensitivities your dog may have.

6. Cost

Grain-free dog food can be more expensive than traditional dog food due to the use of higher-quality ingredients and higher protein content. Before committing to a grain-free diet, consider whether the additional cost is feasible for your budget. Remember that investing in high-quality nutrition can contribute to better long-term health for your dog, potentially saving money on vet bills in the future.

7. Palatability

Just like with any dog food, your dog’s preferences play a role in choosing the right grain-free option. Some dogs may prefer the taste and texture of certain grain-free foods over others. You may need to try a few different brands or recipes to find the one your dog enjoys the most.

8. Transitioning to a Grain-Free Diet

If you decide to switch your dog to a grain-free diet, it’s crucial to do so gradually. Sudden changes in diet can lead to digestive upset or other health issues. Introduce the new food slowly, mixing it with your dog’s current food and gradually increasing the proportion of grain-free food over a week or two. This will allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust to the new diet.

By considering these factors and working closely with your veterinarian, you can make an informed decision about whether a grain-free diet is the best choice for your dog and select the most suitable grain-free dog food to support their health and well-being.

Why Spot & Tango is Our Top Pick

After a thorough review of various grain-free dog food options, Spot & Tango stands out as our top pick for several reasons. This brand’s commitment to providing high-quality, fresh ingredients, customizable meal plans, and convenient pre-portioned meals sets it apart from competitors. Here are some key factors that contribute to Spot & Tango being our top choice for grain-free dog food:

1. Fresh, Human-Grade Ingredients

Spot & Tango uses only fresh, human-grade ingredients in their recipes, ensuring that your dog receives the highest quality nutrition. By using whole, natural ingredients and avoiding artificial additives, fillers, or by-products, Spot & Tango provides a nutritious and healthy grain-free diet for your dog.

2. Customizable Meal Plans

One of the standout features of Spot & Tango is the ability to customize meal plans based on your dog’s specific needs and preferences. By providing details about your dog’s age, weight, breed, activity level, and any health concerns or dietary restrictions, Spot & Tango creates a personalized meal plan tailored to your dog’s unique requirements. This level of customization ensures that your dog receives a nutritionally balanced and appropriate diet.

3. Pre-Portioned Meals

Spot & Tango’s pre-portioned meals offer convenience for pet owners. Each meal is individually packaged according to your dog’s daily caloric needs, making it easy to serve the correct portion size without the need for measuring or weighing. This not only saves time but also helps to maintain a consistent feeding routine and prevent overfeeding or underfeeding.

4. High-Quality Protein Sources

Spot & Tango focuses on using high-quality, easily digestible protein sources in their grain-free recipes. By using lean meats, poultry, and fish, they ensure that your dog receives the necessary nutrients for optimal health and well-being. This focus on high-quality protein sources also supports healthy muscle development and maintenance, especially important for active dogs.

5. Transparency and Traceability

Spot & Tango is committed to transparency and traceability in their sourcing and production processes. They clearly list all ingredients used in their recipes, and each meal can be traced back to its source, providing pet owners with confidence in the quality and safety of the food they are feeding their dogs.

6. Environmentally Friendly Packaging

Spot & Tango uses eco-friendly packaging for their meals, reducing their environmental impact. The packaging is not only recyclable but also designed to maintain the freshness and quality of the food, ensuring your dog receives the best possible nutrition.

7. Exceptional Customer Service

Spot & Tango offers excellent customer service, making it easy for pet owners to receive support and assistance when needed. Their knowledgeable team is available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help with any issues that may arise.

8. Satisfaction Guarantee

Spot & Tango is confident in the quality of their products and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you or your dog are not completely satisfied with their meals, they will work with you to address any concerns or provide a refund.

While the price point for Spot & Tango may be higher than other grain-free dog food options, their commitment to using high-quality, fresh ingredients and providing customized, nutritionally balanced meal plans make it a worthwhile investment in your dog’s health and well-being.

By prioritizing your dog’s unique needs and preferences, Spot & Tango sets the standard for premium grain-free dog food.

Summary

In conclusion, there are many grain-free dog food options available on the market, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Our top pick, Spot & Tango, offers fresh, human-grade ingredients, customizable meal plans, and pre-portioned meals for convenience.

However, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian before transitioning your dog to a grain-free diet to ensure that it is the best option for their specific needs.

By considering your dog’s individual health requirements and working closely with your veterinarian, you can find the best grain-free dog food option for your furry friend.

Cited Sources

1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fda-grain-free-diet-alert-dcm/

Many pet owners want to avoid commercial dog foods containing artificial additives and potentially harmful ingredients. If you’re among these concerned dog owners, this comprehensive guide is for you.

We’ll cover the safety and benefits of homemade dog food, the nutritional requirements for your pet, and share some vet-approved recipes that will keep your dog healthy and happy.

Is it Safe to Feed Your Dog Homemade Recipes?

Feeding your dog homemade recipes can be a safe and beneficial option when done correctly. However, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to provide your dog with a homemade diet.

It’s essential to carefully plan and prepare the meals, ensuring that they are nutritionally balanced, made with high-quality ingredients, and follow proper food handling and storage practices.

1. Nutritional Balance: One of the primary concerns when preparing homemade dog food is providing a nutritionally balanced diet. Dogs require a specific combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to maintain their overall health. Meeting these nutritional requirements can be challenging without expert guidance. Consulting with a veterinarian or pet nutrition expert can help ensure that your homemade recipes meet your dog’s dietary needs.
2. Ingredient Safety: When selecting ingredients for homemade dog food, it’s crucial to avoid foods that are toxic or harmful to dogs. Some common human foods that can be dangerous for dogs include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, avocados, and macadamia nuts. Additionally, raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and bones can pose risks to your pet’s health due to bacterial contamination or the potential for choking and internal injuries. Ensure that you use only high-quality, safe ingredients in your dog’s meals.
3. Food Handling and Storage: Proper food handling and storage are essential to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination in homemade dog food. Cooked food should be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated for up to 3-5 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. Raw ingredients should be handled with care, and surfaces and utensils must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Gradual Transition: When introducing your dog to a homemade diet, it’s essential to make the change gradually. A sudden change in diet can lead to digestive upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Start by adding small amounts of the homemade food to your dog’s current diet, gradually increasing the homemade portion while reducing the commercial food over a week or two.
5. Veterinary Supervision: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial when feeding your dog a homemade diet. Your veterinarian can monitor your dog’s health, weight, and overall well-being, as well as recommend any necessary adjustments to their diet. Blood tests and other diagnostic tests may also be necessary to ensure that your dog is receiving the appropriate nutrients.

Feeding your dog homemade recipes can be safe when proper planning, ingredient selection, food handling, and veterinary supervision are prioritized.

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By ensuring that your dog’s homemade diet is nutritionally balanced, made with high-quality ingredients, and tailored to their specific needs, you can provide a safe and healthy alternative to commercial dog food.

Should You Use Homemade Food?

Feeding your dog homemade food has several benefits, including:

1. Customization: You can tailor your dog’s diet to its specific needs, such as allergies, weight management, or health issues.
2. Quality control: You control the ingredients, ensuring that your pet consumes only high-quality, natural ingredients.
3. Cost-effectiveness: Depending on the ingredients you use, homemade dog food can be more cost-effective than commercial alternatives.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

1. Time-consuming: Preparing homemade dog food can be time-consuming, especially if you’re cooking for multiple pets or require specialized recipes.
2. Nutritional balance: Ensuring the right balance of nutrients can be challenging without expert guidance.
3. Food safety: Improperly stored or prepared homemade dog food can lead to bacterial contamination, posing risks to your pet’s health.

Required Nutrition for Your Dogs

To provide a balanced diet for your dog, you must include the following six essential nutrients:

1. Proteins: Proteins are the building blocks of your dog’s body and are necessary for growth, maintenance, and repair. High-quality protein sources include chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, fish, and eggs.
2. Fats: Fats provide energy, aid in nutrient absorption, and support healthy skin and coat. Examples of healthy fats include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chicken fat.
3. Carbohydrates: Carbs provide energy and are essential for proper digestion. Opt for complex carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats.
4. Vitamins: Vitamins are crucial for various bodily functions, including immunity and metabolism. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and organ meats are rich in vitamins.
5. Minerals: Minerals are vital for maintaining strong bones, teeth, and overall health. Calcium and phosphorus are two essential minerals for dogs. These can be found in bones, dairy products, and certain vegetables.
6. Water: Adequate hydration is crucial for your dog’s overall health. Provide clean, fresh water at all times.

Monitoring Your Dog After Starting a Homemade Diet

When transitioning your dog to a homemade diet, monitor your pet closely for any changes in health, weight, and behavior. Consult with your veterinarian and make adjustments as necessary.

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It’s essential to ensure that your dog’s homemade diet is nutritionally complete and balanced.

How to Make Homemade Dog Food

Consult with a veterinarian or pet nutrition expert to create a balanced recipe based on your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and specific dietary needs.

1. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and ensure proper food handling and storage practices to minimize contamination risks.
2. Cook meat and eggs thoroughly to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and parasites.
3. Cook vegetables and grains to improve digestibility.
4. Gradually introduce the homemade diet to your dog, starting with small amounts and gradually increasing the portion size while reducing the commercial dog food over a week or two.

Top Vet Recommendations for Homemade Dog Food

1. Prioritize high-quality protein sources, such as lean meats, fish, and eggs.
2. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables to provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
3. Use a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
4. Consider adding supplements like calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D, under the guidance of a veterinarian.
5. Regularly consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s diet remains balanced and appropriate for their needs.

Sample Dog Food Recipes: Our Top 5 Choices

Note: Consult your veterinarian before implementing these recipes to ensure they meet your dog’s specific nutritional requirements. The nutrition facts provided here are approximate values and should be used as a general guideline.

1. Chicken and Brown Rice Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup brown rice, cooked
• 1 cup carrots, steamed and chopped
• 1 cup peas, steamed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions: Cook chicken and brown rice separately. Steam carrots and peas. Combine ingredients, add olive oil, and mix thoroughly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming four servings):

• Calories: 305
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g

2. Beef and Quinoa Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups lean ground beef, cooked
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 2 cups spinach, steamed and chopped
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil

Instructions: Cook beef and quinoa separately. Steam spinach. Combine ingredients, add flaxseed oil, and mix thoroughly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming four servings):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 5g

3. Turkey and Sweet Potato Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups ground turkey, cooked
• 1 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 1 cup green beans, steamed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon fish oil

Instructions: Cook turkey and sweet potatoes separately. Steam green beans. Combine ingredients, add fish oil, and mix thoroughly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming four servings):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4g

4. Fish and Pumpkin Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups salmon or white fish, cooked and flaked
• 1 cup pumpkin, steamed and mashed
• 1 cup zucchini, steamed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil

Instructions: Cook fish and steam pumpkin and zucchini. Combine ingredients, add sunflower oil, and mix thoroughly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming four servings):

• Calories: 270
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g

5. Lamb and Barley Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups ground lamb, cooked
• 1 cup barley, cooked
• 1 cup broccoli, steamed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions: Cook lamb and barley separately. Steam broccoli. Combine ingredients, add coconut oil, and mix thoroughly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming four servings):

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g

These top 5 homemade dog food recipes provide a well-rounded selection of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, as well as vitamins and minerals from various fruits and vegetables.

Keep in mind that these recipes should be adjusted to meet your dog’s individual needs and requirements, as determined by your veterinarian or pet nutrition expert.

Other Factors to Consider Before Making Homemade Food for Your Dog

1. Storage: Homemade dog food should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Always store food in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
2. Portion control: Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion size for your dog based on its age, weight, and activity level.
3. Allergies and sensitivities: Be mindful of any known food allergies or sensitivities your dog may have and adjust recipes accordingly.
4. Regular veterinary check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your dog’s health and discuss any necessary changes in their diet.

Summary

Feeding your dog a homemade diet can be a rewarding and healthy alternative to commercial dog food. By using vet-approved recipes and ensuring that your dog’s nutritional requirements are met, you can provide your pet with a high-quality, well-balanced diet.

Always consult with a veterinarian or pet nutrition expert to create a recipe tailored to your dog’s specific needs, and closely monitor their health and well-being throughout the transition to homemade dog food.

With proper planning and attention to detail, you can give your dog a healthier, more natural diet that contributes to a longer, happier life.

As a result, it is essential to choose the right diet for them, ensuring they receive the proper nutrients and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

One of the most debated topics in the pet food industry is the choice between raw and cooked fresh dog food.

This article will provide a detailed analysis of both options, discussing their pros and cons, potential risks, and ultimately which option is preferable for your furry companion.

What is “Fresh Dog Food”?

Fresh dog food is a relatively new concept in the pet food industry, which focuses on providing dogs with a diet that is made from high-quality, whole food ingredients.

Unlike traditional processed kibble or canned dog food, fresh dog food is minimally processed and contains real meats, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.

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Fresh dog food can either be purchased through specialized pet food companies, prepared at home, or through a combination of both.

What is Raw Dog Food?

Raw dog food, also known as the “BARF” diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), is a feeding regimen that involves serving dogs uncooked meats, bones, and organs, along with some fruits and vegetables. The underlying principle of the raw dog food diet is to emulate the natural, ancestral diet of dogs, which consisted of consuming raw prey.

Proponents of raw dog food argue that this diet is more natural and healthier for dogs, as it closely resembles the food they would consume in the wild.

They claim that raw dog food can lead to improved skin and coat health, increased energy levels, and better dental hygiene, among other benefits.

Is Raw Dog Food Safe?

There is an ongoing debate regarding the safety of raw dog food, with opinions divided between those who swear by its benefits and those who warn of potential risks.

While there are anecdotal reports of dogs thriving on a raw diet, many veterinary professionals and organizations express concern about the potential health risks associated with feeding dogs raw meat.

Potential Risks and Dangers Linked to Raw Dog Food

1. Bacterial contamination: One of the primary concerns with raw dog food is the potential for bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella and E. coli. These pathogens can cause severe gastrointestinal issues in dogs and can also be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated dog food or feces.
2. Unbalanced diet: Another concern with raw dog food is the potential for an unbalanced diet, particularly if pet owners are not well-versed in canine nutrition. Dogs require specific nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to maintain optimal health, and an improperly balanced raw diet can lead to serious health issues.
3. Choking hazards: Feeding dogs whole bones, as part of the raw dog food diet, can present a choking hazard or cause injury to the digestive tract. Ingested bone fragments can puncture or obstruct the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe health complications.
4. Nutritional deficiencies: Some proponents of raw dog food avoid certain food groups, such as grains or legumes, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies in dogs. These deficiencies can result in various health issues, such as poor coat quality, weak immune systems, or stunted growth.

Do Veterinarians Recommend Raw Dog Food?

The opinion on raw dog food among veterinarians is varied, with some supporting the diet and others expressing concerns about its safety and nutritional adequacy.

While there are veterinarians who believe in the potential benefits of raw dog food, the majority of the veterinary community, including prominent organizations such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), advise against feeding raw diets due to potential health risks.

The AVMA’s policy on raw pet food diets states that they “discourage the feeding to cats and dogs of any animal-source protein that has not first been subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens because of the risk of illness to cats and dogs as well as humans.”

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The primary concerns among veterinarians regarding raw dog food include the risk of bacterial contamination, the potential for an unbalanced diet, and choking hazards posed by feeding whole bones.

Veterinarians also highlight the lack of scientific evidence supporting the claimed benefits of raw dog food, such as improved coat quality, increased energy levels, and better dental hygiene.

It is important to note that individual veterinarians may have their own opinions on raw dog food, and some may even support its use in specific cases. However, the general consensus among the veterinary community leans toward recommending cooked fresh dog food or commercially prepared diets that meet established nutritional guidelines.

If you are considering feeding your dog a raw diet, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutrition expert to ensure that your dog’s nutritional needs are met, and the potential risks associated with raw feeding are minimized.

Why Cooked Fresh Dog Food is Preferable

1. Reduced risk of bacterial contamination: Cooking fresh dog food helps eliminate harmful bacteria that may be present in raw meat, thus reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues caused by pathogen contamination.
2. Balanced nutrition: When prepared correctly, cooked fresh dog food can provide a complete and balanced diet for dogs, ensuring they receive all the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals required for optimal health.
3. Enhanced digestibility: Cooking food can help break down complex proteins and carbohydrates, making them more easily digestible for dogs. This improved digestibility can lead to better nutrient absorption and overall health.
4. Elimination of choking hazards: Cooked fresh dog food typically does not include whole bones, reducing the risk of choking hazards and injuries to the digestive tract.
5. Palatability: Some dogs may prefer the taste and texture of cooked food over raw food. Cooked food can also be easier on the digestive systems of older or sensitive dogs.
6. Hygiene and convenience: Preparing cooked fresh dog food can be more hygienic and convenient than handling raw meat. Cooked food reduces the risk of cross-contamination and makes storage and handling simpler for pet owners.

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Summary

The debate between raw and cooked fresh dog food is complex, with passionate advocates on both sides. While raw dog food proponents argue that it provides a more natural, ancestral diet for dogs, there are potential risks and dangers associated with feeding raw meat, such as bacterial contamination, unbalanced nutrition, and choking hazards.

On the other hand, cooked fresh dog food offers a safer and more balanced alternative, providing dogs with the essential nutrients they need while minimizing health risks. Cooked food is also more digestible, palatable, and hygienic, making it a preferable choice for many pet owners.

Ultimately, the choice between raw and cooked fresh dog food will depend on individual preferences, lifestyle factors, and the specific needs of your dog.

It is essential to consult with a veterinarian or canine nutrition expert before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, ensuring they receive a balanced and appropriate diet for their age, breed, and health status.

One crucial aspect of this care is their diet, and a growing trend among dog owners is to feed their pets fresh dog food.

This article will give a thorough and detailed report on the benefits of fresh dog food, discussing what it is, what makes it human-grade, the top 10 benefits, whether you should consider it for your dog, and where to buy it, specifically recommending Ollie.

What is “Fresh” Dog Food?

Fresh dog food refers to meals made with real, whole food ingredients that are minimally processed and free from artificial preservatives, additives, and by-products.

This type of dog food typically contains high-quality protein sources like real meat, fish, or poultry, along with fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains.

Fresh dog food is often prepared in small batches to maintain freshness and quality, and can be served as a complete meal or mixed with kibble to enhance its nutritional value.

It can be found in refrigerated or frozen forms, or freshly prepared from a home-cooked recipe.

What Makes it Human Grade?

Human-grade dog food is made with ingredients that are fit for human consumption, meaning they meet the same quality and safety standards as the food we eat.

This is a significant step up from the ingredients often found in traditional pet foods, which can include meat by-products and low-quality fillers.

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For a dog food to be considered human grade, it must adhere to strict guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The facility where the food is produced must also be inspected and approved by these regulatory bodies.

What Are the Top 10 Benefits of Fresh Dog Food?

1. Improved Nutrition: Fresh dog food is made with high-quality, whole food ingredients that provide a balanced and complete diet for your pet. These ingredients are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your dog needs to thrive, such as protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Feeding your dog a fresh food diet can help ensure they receive the appropriate levels of these crucial nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being.
2. Enhanced Digestibility: Fresh dog food is often easier for your pet to digest compared to heavily processed commercial diets. This is because fresh food retains more of its natural enzymes, which help break down nutrients and make them more readily available for absorption in your dog’s digestive system. Improved digestibility can lead to fewer digestive issues, such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea.
3. Healthier Skin and Coat: The high-quality fats and oils found in fresh dog food, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, play a significant role in promoting a shiny, healthy coat and maintaining skin health. These essential fatty acids help to nourish your dog’s skin from the inside out, alleviating issues like dryness, itchiness, and dandruff. A healthy coat and skin can also be a sign of good overall health.
4. Increased Energy Levels: A diet rich in fresh, whole foods can help improve your dog’s energy levels and overall vitality. Fresh dog food provides a more natural and easily accessible source of energy, allowing your dog to better utilize the calories they consume. This can result in increased stamina, endurance, and enthusiasm for play and exercise.
5. Better Weight Management: Fresh dog food is typically lower in carbohydrates and fillers than traditional pet food, which can help your dog maintain a healthy weight or lose weight if necessary. High-quality proteins and healthy fats found in fresh dog food can also help your dog feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating and excessive weight gain.
6. Fewer Allergens: One of the benefits of fresh dog food is that it can be customized to exclude potential allergens, making it an excellent option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. Common allergens in traditional dog foods include certain proteins, grains, and artificial additives. By feeding your dog a fresh food diet, you can more easily control and eliminate these potential allergens, reducing the likelihood of adverse reactions.
7. Better Oral Health: Chewing on fresh, whole foods can help to clean your dog’s teeth and reduce the risk of dental issues like plaque, tartar, and bad breath. The natural texture of fresh food can act as a mild abrasive, scrubbing away at the surface of your dog’s teeth as they chew. This can help to reduce the buildup of harmful bacteria and maintain better oral hygiene.
8. Enhanced Immune System: Fresh dog food contains a variety of nutrients that support your dog’s immune system, making it more resistant to illness and disease. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients found in fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats can help to bolster your dog’s natural defenses and improve their overall health.
9. Improved Gut Health: Fresh dog food is a natural source of probiotics and fiber, which promote a healthy gut and improved digestion. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, while fiber adds bulk to your dog’s stool and aids in regular bowel movements. A healthy gut is essential for overall health and can improve your dog’s ability to absorb nutrients and fend off harmful pathogens.
10. Increased Longevity: Providing your dog with a high-quality, fresh diet can contribute to a longer, healthier life. By supplying your dog with the necessary nutrients, promoting a strong immune system, and

Should You Consider Fresh Food for Your Dog?

If you are concerned about the quality of the food you are feeding your dog and want to

provide them with the best possible nutrition, then fresh dog food may be an excellent choice. Before making the switch, it is essential to consider factors such as your dog’s age, breed, size, and health status, as well as any allergies or dietary restrictions they may have.

Consulting with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist can help you make an informed decision about whether fresh dog food is the right option for your pet.

Where to Buy Fresh Dog Food: Why We Recommend Ollie

There are numerous options available when it comes to purchasing fresh dog food. Some pet owners prefer to make their dog’s food at home using fresh ingredients and carefully curated recipes. However, this can be time-consuming and requires a deep understanding of canine nutrition to ensure a balanced diet.

A more convenient option is to purchase fresh dog food from a reputable company. One such company that we highly recommend is Ollie.

RELATED READING: Cooked vs Raw Fresh Dog Food

Ollie offers fresh, human-grade dog food that is customized to meet the specific nutritional needs of your pet.

By completing a brief online survey about your dog’s age, breed, size, activity level, and health concerns, Ollie will create a personalized meal plan tailored to your dog’s unique requirements.

Ollie’s dog food recipes are developed by veterinarians and canine nutritionists, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible nutrition. Their meals are made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients and are free from artificial preservatives, additives, and by-products.

Ollie’s fresh dog food is delivered directly to your door, making it a convenient and hassle-free option for busy pet parents.

Summary

Feeding your dog fresh dog food can provide numerous benefits, from improved nutrition and digestibility to healthier skin and coat, increased energy levels, better weight management, and more.

Before switching your dog to a fresh food diet, consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure it’s the right choice for your pet.

If you decide to opt for fresh dog food, consider a reputable company like Ollie to provide your pet with customized, high-quality meals made with human-grade ingredients.

By prioritizing your dog’s nutrition and overall well-being, you can help them live a longer, happier, and healthier life.

In recent years, fresh dog food has gained popularity, thanks to its natural ingredients and health benefits for our pets. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which fresh dog food company is the best fit for your dog’s needs.

This article will provide an in-depth comparison of the top fresh dog food companies, discuss factors to consider when ranking them, offer tips for picking the best option for you, and explain why Ollie is our top choice.

1. Ollie

Ollie is a fresh dog food subscription service that delivers personalized, healthy meals directly to your doorstep. The company uses high-quality, human-grade ingredients to create recipes formulated by veterinarians and pet nutritionists.

Types of fresh dog food: Ollie offers four recipes: Beef, Chicken, Turkey, and Lamb. Each meal is tailored to your dog’s specific needs based on factors such as age, weight, activity level, breed, and allergies.

Good for: Ollie’s fresh dog food is suitable for small, large, puppies, older dogs, and dogs with specific dietary requirements.

Pros:

• Personalized meal plans
• High-quality, human-grade ingredients
• Four different recipes
• Formulated by veterinarians and pet nutritionists
• Convenient delivery

Cons:

• May be expensive for some dog owners
• Subscription-based service

2. The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription-based fresh dog food service that focuses on using human-grade, whole food ingredients sourced from responsible suppliers. They deliver customized meals tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Types of fresh dog food: The Farmer’s Dog offers three recipes: Beef, Turkey, and Pork.

Good for: The Farmer’s Dog is suitable for all types of dogs, including small, large, puppies, older dogs, and dogs with specific dietary needs.

Pros:

• Customized meal plans
• Human-grade, whole food ingredients
• Responsibly sourced ingredients
• Pre-portioned meals for convenience

Cons:

• Limited recipe options compared to competitors
• Subscription-based service

3. Nom Nom

Nom Nom is a fresh dog food subscription service that delivers pre-portioned, personalized meals crafted by a team of veterinary nutritionists. They prioritize transparency and quality control in their ingredient sourcing and preparation.

Types of fresh dog food: Nom Nom offers four recipes: Beef, Chicken, Turkey, and Pork.

Good for: Nom Nom’s fresh dog food is suitable for all dog sizes and ages, as well as dogs with specific dietary requirements.

Pros:

• Personalized meal plans
• High-quality ingredients
• Four different recipes
• Formulated by veterinary nutritionists
• Pre-portioned meals

Cons:

• Subscription-based service
• May be expensive for some dog owners

4. Spot & Tango

Spot & Tango is a fresh dog food company that prioritizes the use of high-quality, human-grade ingredients in their recipes. They offer personalized meal plans and deliver pre-portioned meals to your doorstep. The company focuses on sustainability and sources its ingredients from local suppliers.

Types of fresh dog food: Spot & Tango offers two product lines: UnKibble, which is a gently dehydrated fresh dog food, and Fresh, which is a traditional fresh dog food option. They provide a variety of recipes, including Beef, Chicken, Turkey, and Lamb.

Good for: Spot & Tango’s fresh dog food is suitable for dogs of all sizes, ages, and dietary needs. Their UnKibble option makes them a versatile choice for dog owners seeking the benefits of fresh food with the convenience of kibble.

Pros:

• Personalized meal plans
• High-quality, human-grade ingredients
• Variety of recipes
• UnKibble and Fresh product lines
• Focus on sustainability and local sourcing

Cons:

• May be expensive for some dog owners
• Subscription-based service

5. PetPlate

PetPlate is a fresh dog food subscription service that uses human-grade ingredients to create veterinarian-designed recipes. They offer a variety of meal plans tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Types of fresh dog food: PetPlate offers four recipes: Beef, Chicken, Turkey, and Lamb.

Good for: PetPlate’s fresh dog food is suitable for dogs of all sizes, ages, and dietary needs.

Pros:

• Customized meal plans
• High-quality, human-grade ingredients
• Four different recipes
• Veterinarian-designed meals

Cons:

• Subscription-based service
• May be expensive for some dog owners

6. Just Food for Dogs

Just Food for Dogs is a fresh dog food company that offers both pre-made meals and DIY meal kits for dog owners who prefer a hands-on approach. They use high-quality, human-grade ingredients and consult with veterinarians and pet nutritionists to create balanced recipes.

Types of fresh dog food: Just Food for Dogs offers six pre-made recipes: Beef, Chicken, Turkey, Fish, Lamb, and Venison. They also offer DIY meal kits and supplements for those who prefer to cook for their pets.

Good for: Just Food for Dogs is suitable for dogs of all sizes, ages, and dietary needs. Their DIY meal kits also make them a great option for dog owners who enjoy preparing their pet’s meals.

Pros:

• Variety of pre-made recipes
• DIY meal kits available
• High-quality, human-grade ingredients
• Consults with veterinarians and pet nutritionists

Cons:

• Pre-made meals may be expensive for some dog owners
• DIY meal kits may be time-consuming for busy dog owners

7. A Pup Above

A Pup Above is a fresh dog food company that uses sustainably sourced, human-grade ingredients to create their recipes. They focus on environmentally friendly practices and prioritize transparency in their ingredient sourcing.

Types of fresh dog food: A Pup Above offers four recipes: Beef, Chicken, Turkey, and Pork.

Good for: A Pup Above’s fresh dog food is suitable for all dog sizes, ages, and dietary needs.

Pros:

• Sustainable and transparent ingredient sourcing
• Human-grade ingredients
• Environmentally friendly practices
• Four different recipes

Cons:

• May be expensive for some dog owners
• Lacks personalization

Factors We Considered When Ranking the Top Fresh Dog Food Companies

When ranking the top fresh dog food companies, consider the following factors:

1. Quality of ingredients: Look for companies that use high-quality, human-grade ingredients in their recipes.
2. Variety of recipes: Choose a company that offers a variety of recipes to cater to your dog’s specific needs and preferences.
3. Customization and personalization: Opt for companies that offer personalized meal plans based on your dog’s age, weight, breed, activity level, and dietary requirements.
4. Sourcing and sustainability: Prioritize companies with transparent and responsible ingredient sourcing practices, as well as a focus on sustainability.
5. Price: Consider the cost of the fresh dog food and whether it fits within your budget.

What Are “Human-Grade” Ingredients?

When it comes to pet food, the term “human-grade ingredients” is used to describe the quality of the ingredients used in the formulation of a pet’s diet. Human-grade ingredients are those that meet the same safety and quality standards required for human consumption.

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This means that these ingredients are deemed fit for human consumption by food safety authorities and are processed, handled, and stored in facilities that adhere to the same regulations and standards as those applied to human food production.

The importance of human-grade ingredients in pet food lies in their quality, safety, and nutritional value. By using human-grade ingredients, pet food companies can ensure that the ingredients they use are free from harmful contaminants and are held to a higher standard than those typically found in traditional pet food.

Here are some key factors that define human-grade ingredients in pet food:

1. Quality: Human-grade ingredients are of higher quality compared to feed-grade or pet-grade ingredients, which may contain by-products or lower-quality cuts of meat. By using high-quality ingredients, pet food companies can provide a more nutrient-dense diet for pets.
2. Safety: Human-grade ingredients are sourced, processed, and stored in accordance with strict food safety regulations, ensuring that they are free from harmful substances such as bacteria, toxins, or other contaminants.
3. Traceability: The use of human-grade ingredients in pet food allows for greater traceability, as these ingredients are sourced from suppliers that adhere to rigorous food safety protocols and documentation requirements.
4. Nutrient availability: Human-grade ingredients often provide higher levels of bioavailable nutrients, which are more easily absorbed by a pet’s digestive system, compared to lower-quality ingredients.
5. Transparency: Companies that use human-grade ingredients in their pet food are more likely to be transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes, which can give pet owners greater confidence in the quality and safety of the food they provide to their pets.

Human-grade ingredients in pet food represent a commitment to providing higher-quality, safer, and more nutritious food for our pets. Pet owners who choose fresh dog food companies that use human-grade ingredients can have greater peace of mind knowing that they are feeding their pets a diet that meets the same standards as the food they consume themselves.

Tips for Picking the Best Option for You

Selecting the right fresh dog food option for your furry friend can be a daunting task. Here are some expanded tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Assess your dog’s needs: Analyze your dog’s specific needs, such as age, size, breed, activity level, and any dietary restrictions or allergies. Certain breeds may require specific nutrients, while dogs with health issues may need a specialized diet.
2. Research the companies: Conduct thorough research on each fresh dog food company to gain insight into their recipes, ingredient quality, sourcing practices, and customer satisfaction. Look for reviews and testimonials from other dog owners to understand their experiences with each company.
3. Evaluate the ingredients: Carefully examine the ingredients used in each recipe to ensure they meet your dog’s dietary needs and preferences. Look for high-quality, human-grade ingredients and avoid artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers.
4. Consult your veterinarian: Before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. Discuss your dog’s specific needs with your vet and ask for recommendations on fresh dog food companies and recipes that would be suitable for your pet.
5. Trial different options: Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, try a few different companies and recipes to find the one that works best for you and your dog. Monitor your dog’s reaction to the new food, such as their appetite, energy levels, and overall health. This trial period will help you identify the best option for your pet.
6. Consider your budget: Fresh dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble or canned food. Be sure to factor in the cost of the fresh dog food and evaluate whether it fits within your budget. Some companies offer discounts for first-time customers or bulk orders, so explore these options to make the most of your investment.
7. Convenience and delivery options: Consider the convenience of the dog food delivery process. Many fresh dog food companies are subscription-based and deliver pre-portioned meals directly to your doorstep. Examine each company’s delivery schedule, packaging, and portioning to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
8. Customer support and satisfaction: Look for companies that offer excellent customer support, as this can be a valuable resource if you have questions or concerns about your dog’s diet. Companies with responsive customer service and a satisfaction guarantee show that they genuinely care about their customers and their pets.
9. Sustainability and company values: As a responsible pet owner, you may want to support companies that prioritize sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Research each company’s ingredient sourcing, packaging materials, and overall commitment to the environment to find an option that aligns with your values.
10. Flexibility and adaptability: Your dog’s dietary needs may change over time due to factors such as age, weight, or health issues. Choose a fresh dog food company that can adapt to your pet’s evolving needs by offering personalized meal plans and recipe adjustments.

By taking these tips into consideration, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best fresh dog food option for your beloved pet. Remember, every dog is unique, so it’s essential to find the option that best meets their individual needs and preferences.

Why Ollie is Our Top Choice

Ollie stands out as our top choice for the best fresh dog food company for several reasons:

1. Personalized meal plans: Ollie takes your dog’s age, weight, breed, activity level, and dietary requirements into account to create a customized meal plan tailored to their specific needs.
2. High-quality ingredients: Ollie uses human-grade, high-quality ingredients in their recipes, ensuring that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition.
3. Variety of recipes: Ollie offers four different recipes (Beef, Chicken, Turkey, and Lamb), providing options to cater to your dog’s taste preferences and dietary needs.
4. Expert formulation: Ollie’s recipes are formulated by veterinarians and pet nutritionists, ensuring that your dog receives balanced and nutritious meals.
5. Convenient delivery: Ollie delivers fresh, pre-portioned meals directly to your doorstep, making it easy to provide your dog with a healthy diet.

Summary

In conclusion, fresh dog food has become increasingly popular among pet owners seeking to provide their dogs with a healthy, balanced, and nutritious diet.

In this article, we have examined the top fresh dog food companies, including Ollie, The Farmer’s Dog, Nom Nom, PetPlate, Just Food for Dogs, Spot & Tango, and A Pup Above.

We have also discussed the factors to consider when ranking these companies, provided tips for picking the best option for you, and explained why Ollie is our top choice.

Ultimately, the best fresh dog food company for you and your dog will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

It is essential to research each company, consult with your veterinarian, and trial different options to find the perfect fit for your furry friend.

It all starts by understanding what works best for the dog moving forward. This includes its short and long-term health.

To make sure the right decision is being made, it’s best to consider all of your options including what type of food is going to work well for the dog moving forward. One of the more common questions that arise includes whether it’s best to go with fresh or dry dog food.

This article is going to take a look at the two types of options and which one is right for your pet.

Dry Dog Food vs Fresh: Key Differences

Dry Dog Food

1. Commercial-Grade Food

It all starts with well-researched formulations.

You are going to want to give the dog something that has been tested in great detail, which is always the case with quality dry dog food. These formulations are rigorously tested to make sure they stand the test of time and are good for all types of dogs.

This makes them easier to give to the dog without questioning their diet plan.

2. Includes All Nutrients

The nutrients that have to be in a dog’s food will need to be accounted for.

Dog owners might not always know what is ideal for their dog, which is why premium dry dog food is the right way to go.

The benefits include:

• Already Tested for Important Nutrients
• Easy To Control

These nutrients are easier to find in dry dog food [1]. You can easily go through with the personalized meal plans or any high-quality dry dog food knowing it will offer all of the nutrients that are needed to keep the dog healthy.

3. Easier To Feed The Dog

A dog is going to find it easier to chew into the dry dog food as it will come in kibble form. This works well as you are not going to be responsible for making it chewable.

Other ingredients as seen with fresh dog food need to be sliced properly and prepared with care. This can be time-consuming for a lot of dog owners and not as easy.

Fresh Dog Food

1. Natural Part of Dog’s Diet

A dog’s diet has to be kept in mind when it comes to what it’s eating.

The reason dog owners do sometimes find fresh dog food appealing comes down to how organic it is. In the wild, a dog would be looking for fresh meat and vegetables [2].

These are easier to find when you are not looking at dry dog food.

2. Promotes Heart Health

It is known for being easier on the heart and that is useful for dog owners that are worried about their dog’s cardiovascular health.

The benefits include:

• No Preservatives
• You Choose The Ingredients

Fresh dog food doesn’t include additives that can be harmful to a dog’s heart. This is not always the case with premium dry dog food brands but it is possible with brands that are sold locally.

3. Time-Consuming

There is quite a bit of time that goes into prepping these meals and that is the last thing dog owners will want to deal with when they have other things on their mind.

It is important to consider all of this when it comes to understanding what is time-consuming and what is not.

Fresh dog food is not always easy to prepare, which is why delivery programs such as Ollie or The Farmer’s Dog exist.

Best Fresh Dog Food Options

The Farmer’s Dog

1. High-Quality Meat

It all starts with human-grade meat and that is something dog owners will enjoy with The Farmer’s Dog.

This is a company that goes above and beyond to offer high-quality meat to its customers. This ensures the meat coming to your front door will always be world-class and good for your dog.

2. Customized Meals

Each meal is fully personalized based on the information you give to the brand.

This is ideal when tailoring a dog’s meals and making sure they are in line with what it needs to stay healthy.

The benefits include:

• Good For Different Types Of Dogs
• Includes All Nutrients

Not only are these dog meals personalized but they are also great-tasting.

3. Personalized Deliveries

Getting the dog food to your front door is a major requirement and that is not a problem here. The Farmer’s Dog has a robust delivery service that can get the dog food to you within a few days.

This is as simple as it gets for those who are busy and still want the dog to be well-fed.

Ollie

1. 100% Real Food

Ollie is a wonderful company because it takes pride in the food given to dogs.

Each meal is 100% real and that goes a long way in providing peace of mind to dog owners.

RELATED READING: Ollie and The Farmer’s Dog Head-to-Head

2. Delivered Fresh

All meals are delivered fresh and ready to eat.

This is good for dog owners that are in a rush and want the meals ready to go.

The benefits include:

• Quick Deliveries
• Right To Your Front Door

Just receive the packaging and open it to feed your dog. It is that easy.

3. High-Quality Testing

The amount of testing that goes into Ollie’s dog food makes it one of the best at what it does. You are not going to have any second thoughts about the quality of these meals.

Learn more see best price at Ollie

Spot and Tango

1. Personalized Plans

It is the personalized dog food plans that are a great starting point with this company.

They take the time to customize the plans and make sure what is being sent to you is perfect. This allows you to open the packaging and immediately give the dog food to your beloved pet.

2. Twelve Simple Ingredients

Spot and Tango is particular about what it uses to produce its dry dog food.

Each meal uses up to 12 ingredients making it simple, efficient, and safe to eat for the dog.

The benefits include:

• Tested Formulations
• Uses Algorithm To Analyze What Works

Rather than adding preservatives and making it difficult to consume, this is a brand that takes pride in what it gives to dogs around the nation.

3. Fast Deliveries

The deliveries that come through this brand are quick and right in tune with what you want as a dog owner. You are not going to be made to wait and that is a real time-saver.

Learn more at see best price at Spot and Tango

Dry Dog Food Options

1. Specialty Pet Stores

You can always start by looking at potential specialty pet stores in the area.

The goal is to see what is available to you within reach. A lot of dog owners don’t have to go far when it comes to finding dry dog food, while others will require a premium delivery service to make sure the food gets to them.

Take the time to look at each option and then weigh what works best for you.

RELATED READING: Alternatives to Commercial Dog Food

2. Grocery Stores

For those who are looking for the fastest possible option, it ends up coming down to a few commercial brands that sell dry dog food in grocery stores.

These are not always the best brands but they do a passable job.

The reasons include:

• Long List of Options
• Easy To Access

You will want to keep this in mind when it comes to dry dog food. It might work well for you and your dog moving forward.

3. Consult With A Vet

Before doing anything, it is highly recommended to take the time to speak to your vet. The goal is to see what your dog’s medical history requires when it comes to nutrients and ingredients.

Having this information in hand can be powerful for dog owners.

You will want to make sure mistakes are not being made and that is what a vet can help with every step of the way.

4. Spot & Tango’s Unkibble Option

If you are thinking about getting dry dog food, it’s recommended to look at the Spot & Tango Unkibble option as it works well for this type of scenario.

This uses 100% whole food ingredients that are easy to scoop and give to your dog.

The benefits include:

• High-Grade Dry Dog Food
• Ideal for All Dogs

There are no additives in this dry dog food and it is known to taste great.

This makes it an appealing option for dog owners that don’t want to compromise their pet’s health.

Learn more about UnKibble at Spot and Tango

Summary: Final Tips for Picking the Best Food Option for Your Pup

When it comes to choosing between dry and fresh dog food, it’s important to consider your time. Do you have the time to spend prepping dog food meals?

A lot of dog owners are busy with work and school making it important to have a faster way to feed the dog without compromising its health. This is where fresh dog food delivery programs are the way to go. You save a lot of time.

Just take the time to go with a high-grade service provider, choose the right plan, and get it delivered to your front door in a few days. It’s that easy.

References:

1. https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/nutrition/wet-versus-dry-pet-food-one-better-your-pet
2. https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/raw-dog-food-dietary-concerns-benefits-and-risks

There are several options to choose from and each one has an appealing set of benefits. It comes down to what you want as a dog owner and what works for you.

Here is a breakdown of the different options dog owners can pursue.

Our Favorite Alternatives to Commercial Dog Foods

1. Fresh Dog Food Delivery

The first option is to go with a fresh dog food delivery program.

This is a tailored program that takes the time to understand what your dog needs and then comes up with a set of meals that will be delivered straight to your front door.

These meals are not only good for the dog but will always be fresh.

2. Local Fresh Dog Food Options

Local dog food options come down to what is available where you live.

Some locations will offer fresh dog food and it is important to look at what is available in the area. Larger cities tend to have more choices while rural settings don’t.

3. Homemade Dog Food

This is an option that involves going out and buying all of the ingredients on your own before taking the time to prepare the dog food at home.

This is the most time-consuming but it is also the most controlled when it comes to choosing what the dog gets to eat.

Best Fresh Dog Food Delivery Options

1. Ollie

Subscription Box

It is the subscription box setup that is great for those who want to make sure their dog is getting to eat what it wants.

Whether it is the meats or the other ingredients, you are going to be giving your dog the best and that is what matters most.

It is the subscription box approach that will appeal to most people.

Human-Grade Quality

The meat that is available through Ollie is of the highest quality and they put a lot of time into sourcing it from the best suppliers.

This means any meat that is included in the program will be world-class.

The benefits include:

• Nutritious Foods Only
• Ideal for All Dogs

Whether it is the beef or the chicken, everything goes through multiple checks and balances.

This is ideal for dog owners that are particular about what their dog is getting to consume daily.

3. Detailed Feeding Guide

One of the underrated advantages of Ollie comes down to the feeding guide.

There is a feeding guide included with the subscription box making it easier for dog owners to tailor the meals based on what their dog needs.

It is this attention to detail that is appealing because it shows how much thought has gone into the program.

2. The Farmer’s Dog

Made Fresh

Going with fresh food is a must for your dog.

The beauty of this fresh dog food delivery service comes down to the ingredients that are used in the meals. You are going to be getting something that is made of 100% natural ingredients and will impress you as soon as it is in your hands.

The dog will love it as well because these ingredients appeal to them and their taste buds.

High-Quality Meats

It is the meat that is always going to matter when it comes to putting together something refined for your dog to eat.

This is a delivery service that only offers pure meat that has been sourced from the best suppliers.

The benefits include:

• Consistent Taste
• Easy For Dog’s To Consume

You will know the dog is going to get the type of meat it needs.

This is great for the dog’s health and is also going to provide peace of mind to you as a dog owner.

3. Custom Deliveries

The Farmer’s Dog is great when it comes to managing delivers and understanding the operational details that come along with something like this.

You can go through and personalize how quickly the delivery is going to come and they are quite good with being fast.

This saves you time and allows you to know the delivery will come when you want it to.

3. Spot and Tango

Expert-Designed Recipes

Spot and Tango does an exceptional job of providing world-class recipes that are fully designed by qualified animal nutritionists. This ensures the quality is excellent and will allow the dog to get all of the necessary nutrients to stay healthy year-round.

These recipes are not only healthy for the dog but are also designed to be safe.

This is beneficial when it comes to different types of dogs and their needs.

Customized Foods

All of the foods that are prepared by Spot and Tango go through a rigorous quality control process. The benefit of this comes down to the level of customization that is done.

This customization is powerful as it ensures the dog gets precisely what it needs when it needs it.

The benefits include:

• Tailored For Your Dog
• Ideal for All Types of Dog Diets

The goal should always be to give your dog personalized food options and that is what Pet Plate brings to the table.

The dog will enjoy the food and you will end up getting a good deal out of it too.

RELATED READING: How do The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie Compare?

Ready To Eat

The one benefit that does stand out with Spot and Tango has to be how the meals are set up when they are delivered. They are ready to eat and that is beneficial for busy dog owners that are looking to go with an option that is as straightforward as it needs to be.

All of the meals that are going to come through will be ready to go and that does save quite a bit of time over the long haul.

Local Fresh Dog Food Options

1. Can be Hard to Find Depending Where You Live

For most people, it is just not easy to go out and find a quality dog food option locally.

You are going to end up with mediocre solutions that are disappointing and are not going to yield the type of results that are worth your time.

This is a hassle many people deal with and it’s not easy at the best of times. Most people prefer to go with other options because of the challenges that come when living in the wrong area for dog food options.

2. Limited Options

You have to think about the number of options that will be readily available to you as a dog owner.

If you are not in the right area, you might end up having to settle and that is dangerous. You should never settle when it comes to your dog’s diet.

The reasons include:

• Rural Areas Don’t Have Multiple Options
• Limited Quality

The only time this makes sense is when you are in a city where there are at least 5-10 options to choose from and each one is good.

This will allow you to feel good about how things are going to turn out.

3. Look For Fresh Food Delivery Program

You have to account for how the food is going to get to your front door. There has to be a bit of thought given to how the food will get to you and how fresh it’s going to be.

It’s not always easy to go with a local option unless you are in a larger city.

In rural settings, you are better off going with a quality dog food delivery service because it will save you time and provide peace of mind.

Homemade Fresh Dog Food Options

1. 100% Natural Ingredients

The main advantage of going with homemade dog food has to do with the ingredients.

You are the one that is choosing the ingredients and that allows you to piece through every little bit of information about the ingredients. This is powerful for those who want to do things the right way and don’t like the idea of making mistakes along the way.

Choose the ingredients that work for your dog and know it will lead to the results you desire.

2. Easier To Tailor To Your Needs

The homemade dog food is going to be fully customized.

This is because you are in control of how the dog food is prepared, what goes into it, and how much is given to the dog per portion.

This is critical when it comes to doing things the right way.

The reasons include:

• You Choose The Ingredients
• You Prepare The Food

The more you tailor a diet, the easier it gets to see the types of results you want from a dog’s diet.

3. Safe for Pets if You Follow Vet-Approved Guidelines

Your dog’s safety has to be a priority and that is not going to change regardless of the option you go with as a dog owner.

Keeping this in mind, a homemade dog food option can be great because it is going to be safe if you follow the proper safety guidelines. Consulting with a vet or professional will be key here.  You are the one that is putting together the food and that will ensure you can keep an eye on what is going into the meal.

This alone is powerful and a must for those who want to keep things as safe as possible.

4. Ideal for Customizing With Help Of Vet

It is also important to note there is a sense of customization that can be done with the help of a qualified vet.

The vet will know what is needed to keep your dog healthy and can assist with the development of a diet plan.

The reasons include:

• Vet Has Your Dog’s Medical History
• Vet Knows What Works

This is something you can take advantage of when it comes to keeping your dog safe and building a comprehensive diet plan.

The more you look into it, the more you are going to see in terms of results.

Summary:  What’s Our Top Alternative to Commercial Dog Food?

If you’re looking for the easiest and most convenient alternative available, then we’d recommended to go with a fresh dog food delivery service.

This is going to ensure you get a fully tailored solution that will work well for your dog’s needs. While there are alternatives that offer value, you should always take the time to consider all of your options.

This is a must when it comes to enjoying the type of dog food that will make a difference in your dog’s life.

All three of these services are great and will offer value to your dog. They are refined, customized, and offer premium-quality meat that is ideal for your dog’s health.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get started we’d recommend starting with Ollie…

This problem extends beyond the United States with an estimated 40 percent of the global population of dogs being overweight. Unfortunately, the problem is showing no signs of slowing down. While some of it can be attributed to a lack of exercise, one of the biggest contributors to this issue is what we are feeding our dogs. The fact is, the most widely available commercial dog foods in the marketplace are full of unhealthy ingredients. Not only are they heavily processed, but they contain far too many carbohydrates and other filler ingredients to lower production costs.

There have been numerous reports that showcased even dog foods marketed as grain-free weren’t and were linked to heart disease in dogs [2]. Luckily, there is a better way. Dog food delivery services like The Farmer’s Dog offer human-grade food packed full of healthy and hearty nutrients.

If you’re convinced that you want to start treating your dog better and offering them a diet that can make them healthier and happier, you’re going to want to weigh your options. While The Farmer’s Dog is certainly a good one, there are alternative options that you could consider. Below, you’ll learn about some of the best alternatives you should be looking at.

Top 5 Competitors To The Farmer’s Dog Food Delivery

1. Ollie

Ollie is one of the top options you should be considering if you want something other than The Farmer’s Dog. Ollie is a pet food delivery service much like The Farmer’s Dog. It’s got human-grade ingredients and nutrient-balanced meals. Ollie’s has four different fresh recipes that you can choose from including Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Beef.

Key Features and Benefits

• Excellent Packaging

Ollie has one of the best packagings out of any of the dog food delivery brands. Not only does the food come packaged with dry ice to keep it fresh, but each meal comes in small packages that are very easy to open. Not only is the packaging aesthetically pleasing, but it’s also Eco-friendly. The one downside to The Farmer’s Dog is that the packaging isn’t as shipping efficient. However, that only means it’s easier to store and serve. After all, each meal comes with a perfectly sized portion scooper which makes it easy to feed your dog the right amount every time.

• Money-Back Guarantee

Another thing to note about Ollie is that they are so confident in the quality of their meal service that they are willing and able to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This is something that you should be looking for whenever you are looking to try something like new food service. After all, if food service is willing to offer such a guarantee, they are likely more confident their customers will have positive experiences. You don’t get the same guarantee with The Farmer’s Dog.

• Snack Options

One thing that a lot of people complain about with The Farmer’s Dog is their lack of product offerings outside of the regular meal line. After all, dogs deserve to snack just as much as we do! Ollie solves this with their snack line. It gives you the ability to get your dog snacks featuring the same human-grade and high-quality ingredients as their main product line. This includes turkey strips, chicken strips, sweet potato slices, and savory beef strips. The ability to get snacks from the same place you are getting your dog’s meals can save you a lot of time and energy.

2. Spot and Tango

Spot and Tango is another option that you could consider if you are looking for an alternative to The Farmer’s Dog. Spot and Tango allow you to build your dog’s personalized meal plan using real ingredients and full transparency. Spot and Tango advertise meals that use twelve simple ingredients with nothing artificial added.

Key Features and Benefits

• Fresh and Dry

One of the things that have put Spot and Tango on the map is the fact they offer both fresh and dry meals. They are the only dog food delivery service that offers fresh dry food using their innovative method. They do so by gently drying the real ingredients at low enough temperatures and without using any artificial flavoring or additives. If you are looking to give your dog better food but you aren’t ready to make the jump into fresh food right away, Spot and Tango’s UnKibble could be a good place to start. It gives you all of the normal convenience of kibble, but it does so without the sacrifices in food quality you normally have to live with. Also, they add a personalized scoop for your dog to ensure they get the perfect portions every time they eat.

• Simpler Ingredients

While The Farmer’s Dog doesn’t use a whole lot more ingredients, Spot and Tango make things very simple. By only using 12 ingredients, you can rest easy knowing that everything in it is all-natural and high quality. It is a great option for those that have dogs with sensitive stomachs or with food allergies. After all, the fewer ingredients you have, the easier it is to keep their digestive system functioning properly and avoiding inflammatory responses from the wrong ingredients.

3. Nom Nom

Nom Nom is another dog food delivery service that markets itself as a fresher and better way to feed your pets. That’s right, Nom Nom is a pet food delivery service and not just one for dogs. That’s a big difference right there.

Key Features and Benefits

• Dogs and Cats

Unlike The Farmer’s Dog, Nom Nom was developed for both dogs and cats. Therefore, if you are someone that has a dog and a cat, you’re going to want to go with Nom Nom purely out of convenience. That way, you don’t have to go through two different pet delivery services just to get your cat and your dog the food they need. Having everything prepped and delivered by the same service can save you a lot of unwanted hassle.

• Vertically Integrated

One of the things to like about Nom Nom is that they take care of the food every step of the way. They don’t just make the food, they handle the process from start to finish to ensure they are delivering the highest quality possible.

• Treats Offered

Nom Nom is a service that offers treats to dog and cat parents. As mentioned previously, The Farmer’s Dog only offers their meal service. They do not offer treats. With Nom Nom, you can get a couple of different treats.

• Supplements Offered

With Nom Nom, your buying from more than just a pet food company. You’re buying from a pet health company [3]. A company that is committed to delivering the most comprehensive health solutions for pet owners. This shows with their supplement line. They sell supplements meant to meet the needs of both dogs and cats to enhance their digestive system. All of these supplements are developed in-house by Nom Nom’s lead veterinary nutritionist.

Learn more and check current Nom Nom prices

4. PetPlate

PetPlate is another good option to consider if you want something that is an alternative to The Farmer’s Dog. PetPlate is one that you may not have heard as much about. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t a viable and even better option in some cases.

Key Features and Benefits

• Treats Offered

As mentioned, The Farmer’s Dog doesn’t offer treats. This is one of the biggest complaints and it’s not one that you can have with PetPlate. PetPlate sells treats in the form of chicken apple sausage bits. These are incredibly delicious treats that your dog is certain to love. They are made out of 100% human-grade ingredients and completely grain-free.

• Grain-Free and Grain Options

With PetPlate, you don’t necessarily have to go with grain-free meals. PetPlate has grain-inclusive recipes like Lip Lickin’ Lamb. This is a recipe that contains quinoa which is known to be a super grain due to it being packed with all kinds of antioxidants. Therefore, it would be a good option for those who aren’t necessarily looking to get rid of grains from their dog’s diets but who might be looking to cut down on the poor quality grains.

• 100% Money-Back Guarantee

This is always something you like to see when you are trying a service out for the first time. PetPlate advertises a 100% money-back guarantee which is something that can provide you with the peace of mind you might need.

Learn more and get Pet Plate’s best price

5. Just Food For Dogs

Just Food For Dogs is one of the oldest and best alternatives to The Farmer’s Dog. Just Food For Dogs offers 15 fresh whole food recipes for your dogs. There is a lot to like about Just Food For Dogs which arguably makes it one of the best alternatives.

Key Features and Benefits

• One Year Long Feeding Trials

When you are buying food for your dog, you ideally want to get it from a service that is committed to providing the highest quality food. Just Food For Dogs doesn’t just “talk the talk.” They actually “walk the walk” and it shows with their one-year-long feeding trials. When they are formulating recipes, they are going through year trials to ensure their recipes are promoting optimal immune system health. The same cannot be said about any of the other dog food services.

• Complete Transparency

When you are looking to purchase food for your dog, you’re going to want transparency. That’s exactly what you get with Just Food For Dogs. They make all of their kitchens open to the public. Meaning, you could stop by and watch the process firsthand. This should inspire some confidence that you are buying from a reputable company.

• Cats and Dogs

With Just For Dogs, you can get food for your cat. They have a Just Cats brand. Therefore, you can get your cat’s human-edible ingredients without preservatives with your dog’s subscription if needed.

• Custom Made Food For Your Dog or Cat

If your dog or cat has specific dietary needs, you can get custom food made for them. It only costs a one-0time formulation fee and it can be customized according to your dog or cat’s individual needs which factors in their medical records and more.

Summary

Overall, there are so many alternatives to The Farmer’s Dog that you shouldn’t have trouble finding one. While all of the services above have the benefits that make them viable options, our top-rated alternative to The Farmer’s Dog would have to be Ollie for several reasons. For one, they get all of their nutrients directly from a natural source. Also, while their packaging might be less Eco-efficient over the long run, it’s much easier to deal with as a dog owner. The positioning is much easier to control and the packaging is easier to open. Also, the fact they sell dog treats is a big deal for any dog owner. After all, your ordering your dog’s food from a delivery service for convenience first and foremost. Therefore, having to venture out and find healthy dog treats isn’t ideal. Being able to add them to your Ollie’s order makes it much easier.

Our Top Reasons To Choose Ollie

• Delicious, healthy food your dog should love
• Packaging is easier to deal with and it comes with perfectly sized scoops
• Excellent feeding instructions
• Healthy ingredients
• You can get treats

References

1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/fat-dogs-and-dog-obesity/
2. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/
3. https://www.nomnomnow.com/site/research-and-development

Unfortunately, this same concept can be applied to pet food. More and more pet food lining the store shelves is highly processed and full of ingredients that aren’t conducive to a healthy diet. It’s no wonder why the recent statistics show that 56% of dogs in the United States are classified as obese [1]. If only there was the same kind of meal service for your pets. If you’ve wanted the same thing for your furry friend, you’re in luck.

Nowadays, there are plenty of healthy options available, and even a few that will deliver the meals right to your home.

Ollie Dog Food is one of the more popular offerings available. It’s a service that is designed to help deliver clean, healthy, and all-natural food for your dog, directly to your door. Each meal plan is specially tailored to your dog based on several factors ranging from your dog’s breed to his or her weight and more.

It’s an excellent option but there are plenty of competing services that offer highly compelling meal delivery services too. In this article, we will be detailing some of the best alternatives to Ollie Dog Food.

Our Top 5 Alternatives to Ollie Dog Food

1. The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog is easily one of the best competing options for Ollie Dog Food. The Farmer’s Dog tags itself as the “Smarter, Healthier Pet Food [2].” The service delivers real food that is made fresh for your dog. In terms of food and the quality they offer, both The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie are very similar. They both offer grain-free meals with recipes created by board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Therefore, you’re getting an equally impressive assortment of recipes and options from each. However, The Farmer’s Dog does offer compelling features beyond the food that make them a preferred option for many.

Key Benefits and Features

• Sustainable Packaging

One of the things to love about The Farmer’s Dog is its commitment to sustainability. With The Farmer’s Dog, you get the same human-grade meat that you would get with Ollie, but you get it packaged in entirely sustainable packaging. The Farmer’s Dog’s packaging is compostable, recyclable, and/or biodegradable. This means you can feed your dog unprocessed food that is good for them without worrying about negatively impacting the environment in the process.

• Easier Packaging

Another good thing about the packaging offered by The Farmer’s Dog is the fact that it is practical. Each of the meals has personalized labels on it. The packaging comes with your dog’s name on it and the feeding instructions. This makes feeding your dog is a breeze. This is especially helpful if you have more than one dog because they’ll likely have different feeding requirements.

• Better Shipping Flexibility

Another thing that The Farmer’s Dog gets right is the shipping. After all, as a pet owner, planning for your dog’s meals can be difficult and time-consuming. The Farmer’s Dog is a brand that understands this. They can schedule deliveries for up to 8 weeks worth of food in a single shipment. This can keep you from having to get more frequent shipments which are not only better for the environment, but it’s easier to deal with. Also, they offer rush shipping options for those that find themselves needing more food in a pinch.

2. Nom Nom

This is another great option that you could consider if you are looking to find a compelling alternative to Ollie. Nom Nom markets itself as “Real, Good Food For Dogs and Cats [3].”

Key Benefits and Features

• For Dogs and Cats

One of the things you’ll notice when looking at Nom Nom is that it’s not entirely dedicated to dogs. This is a very good benefit for anyone who is both a dog and cat parent. That way, you can get quality meals delivered conveniently from a single service. Ollie is a service that only caters to dogs. Therefore, you’re going to have to go through two different food delivery services if you want to get real food for both of your pets.

• Easy Packaging

Nom Nom has excellent packaging that makes serving the food to your pets a breeze. Each meal comes in a vacuum-sealed and single-portion packaging that features easy tear-off tops. This makes serving a single portion very convenient. With Ollie, you have packs that aren’t individually portioned for meals. Instead, you need to scoop and measure.

• Health-Oriented

One of the things that you’ll notice different about Nom Nom is that they don’t consider themselves a pet food company. Rather, they market themselves as a pet health company [3]. They have an in-house team of PhDs that engage in research and study on gut health. They even sell a microbiome testing kit that will give you key insight into your pet’s gut health which can give you an overview of their overall health and immune system.

If your pet suffers from allergies or other issues, you’ll want to take a much more holistic approach towards figuring out the root cause of it. This is something Nom Nom does a lot better than competing offerings.

See current Nom Nom prices

3. Spot and Tango

Spot and Tango is another great alternative to Ollie. There is a lot to like about Spot and Tango. They offer the same human-grade food along with personalized plans you can get from competing services. However, they do certain things very differently.

Key Benefits and Features

• UnKibble

This is something that no other competing service is doing. If you’re someone who wants to serve your dog healthier food, but you aren’t too keen on the idea of serving fresh food that isn’t dry, you’re in luck. Spot and Tango have created the only Fresh Dry food for dogs. They call it “UnKibble” and it’s made out of 100% whole ingredients. They give you a personalized scoop perfectly portioned for your dog. It makes serving your dog healthier food as easy as you’ve grown accustomed to with dry dog food. Not only does it make serving the food easier, but you don’t have to worry about losing valuable freezer space.

• FreshDry

If you opt for the fresh food over the UnKibble, you will get meals that have been through a process called FreshDry which means all of the nutritional value of the foods will have been preserved. This can make it easier knowing that your dog is getting all of the nutrients that are listed on the label.

4. Pet Plate

Pet Plate is another alternative that you could consider if you want something other than Ollie. Pet Plate offers personalized meal plans delivered to your door. One of the things that Pet Plate doesn’t do is offer customized meal plans based on your dog’s health. Other competing services will offer meal plans that factor in your dog’s individual health concerns.

Key Benefits and Features

• 50% Topper Plan

One of the things that you can get from Pet Plate that you don’t get with some of the other services is a topper plan. Ollie does offer a topper plan with even more options to choose from.

RELATED READING: Ollie Dog Food Reviews

• 100% Money-Back Guarantee

One of the things to like about Pet Plate is the fact they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. This is good news for anyone who wants to test the service out to see whether or not it works for them.

Learn more and check Pet Plate’s best price

5. Just Food For Dogs

This is one of the original fresh food services for dogs. Just Food For Dogs does a lot of things that make them a compelling option to consider.

Key Benefits and Features

• Backed by Research 

Just Food For Dogs takes its recipe formulation seriously. They have “year-long feeding trials [4].” This is to ensure they are crafting specially formulated meals that are scientifically proven to be healthy. They are the only fresh whole food company to have commissioned digestibility studies for their formulations [4]. This can give you a lot of confidence as a pet owner knowing that the recipes you get are thoroughly researched and crafted for a healthy diet. They even have onboard Certified Nutrition Consultants that you can get in touch with to discuss options for your dog.

RELATED READING: Ollie vs Just Food for Dogs

• Open Kitchens

One of the things to like about Just Food For Dogs is their transparency. They have kitchens located in a variety of places throughout the USA where you can stop by to check out their process. This makes it easy to trust Just Food For Dogs because it shows they are hiding anything.

• Just Cats

While the name might imply they only serve fresh food for dogs, they have a Just Cats line. If you are a cat and dog owner, you’ll likely appreciate being able to get all of your fresh food served from a single provider. Their Just Cats line uses human-edible ingredients without preservatives that are easy to serve.

Summary

As you can see, there are plenty of alternatives to Ollie. Ollie certainly offers compelling features and benefits that make it a great service. However, if you’re looking for the best alternative, The Farmer’s Dog is the top pick. The Farmer’s Dog offers everything you would want in a fresh dog food delivery service.

Not only do they use pet nutrition research in their formulations, but they do an extensive profile of your dog. That way, you are getting the optimal formulas factoring in your dog’s health issues. Ollie’s only factors in your dog’s allergies. The Farmer’s Dog goes much further which means you’re getting optimized meal plans.

Also, their packaging makes it not only easier to serve your dog food but better for the environment. Having individual pre-portioned packages makes your life a lot easier.

Reasons The Farmer’s Dog Tops Our List

• They factor in a multitude of your dog’s health issues when formulating meal plans
• More flexible subscription and shipping options
• Pre-portioned packages with your dog’s name on them make meals easier to store and serve
• Data-driven formulations
• Flash-frozen for nutrient preservation
• Eco-friendly packaging

References

1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/obesity-in-dogs-a-major-health-threat-hiding-in-plain-sight/
2. https://www.thefarmersdog.com/
3. https://www.nomnomnow.com/
4. https://www.justfoodfordogs.com/evidence-based-research/downloads.html

Fortunately, this is not only possible but also easy to do if you have an invisible or wireless dog fence, which is also known as a GPS dog fence. That way, your beloved pet will have plenty of space for playing in without endangering their own life or becoming a nuisance to the neighbors.

The SpotOn Virtual Fence, or the SpotOn Collar as it is popularly known is one of the best wireless dog fences currently available in the market. If you want to keep your dog safe, you should seriously consider investing in this virtual fence and below is a detailed look into the product to help you understand why it is a must-have product for dogs and their owners.

What is the SpotOn Collar?

The SpotOn Collar or SpotOn Virtual Fence as it is also known is a wireless dog GPS tracking and containment system that allows you to take your beloved pets and virtual smart fence anywhere you choose to go.

The SpotOn collar allows you to program containment locations by simply walking a boundary with the device in hand. The entire system is a collar and companion smartphone application that links to 3 global navigation satellite systems and a variety of cellular networks.

How Does the Spot On Collar Work?

To activate your SpotOn Collar, you need to walk around the area where you would like the fence to be. If you want your dog to roam in your backyard only, walk around the backyard with the device turned on. The virtual fence is automatically programmed within the collar after your lap the perimeter. You can make a protected containment space of virtually any shape and size from ½ acre to 1,000 acres.

The SpotOn Collar utilizes 3 satellite systems (Galileo, GLONASS, GPS) to create a trusted containment location for your dog. The satellites are used by both the United States military and the FAA for navigation and are not the ones used to power satellite TV and radio.

Immediately you turn on the device, it will create an invisible barrier around the containment space. If your dog gets too close to the set boundary, the SpotOn collar lets out a quick beep that’s intended to discourage the dog from proceeding further. If they get closer still, a second louder beep goes off. The loud noise is often enough to scare off most dogs.

If your dog is not bothered by the noises, the collar will emit a painless static shock that will undoubtedly turn away the dog. Please note that the static shock is a completely optional feature. With a bit of extra training, it is possible to teach your dog to recognize the signals of the beeps, so that the static shock is not necessary.

If the dog unexpectedly breaches the containment space, the SpotOn system automatically tracks their location and gives updates every 6 seconds detailing where the dog is located, the distance away from you, and will even give you driving directions to where the dog is geographically located. If it is a quick sleep and the dog comes back immediately, he/she doesn’t get a correction for getting back.

Key Features of the SpotOn Dog Collar

• Easy Installation

The installation process is perhaps one of the best aspects of the SpotOn Collar. All you need to do to set up your device is to walk a perimeter with it while it is turned on. You don’t need to dig up your property, install markers, or even waste time trying to mess around with hardwire. It is actually so easy to do that you can probably do it on your first try.

• Simple Premise

The reliance on underground wires is an ancient idea that often never works as great as it should. The SpotOn Collar, on the other hand, uses virtual mapping to allow you to set up your own fences, which means that all the hardware is located in one place, which is on the dog. With this device, you don’t have to worry about having multiple set-ups for different dogs or even buying extra wires.

• Long Battery Life

The SpotOn Collar is ideal for dogs that spend much of their time outdoors. The battery charge lasts for about 36 hours, which means that you can let your dog wander all day and charge up the collar at night. A longer-lasting battery means less collar failure and lower chances of your dog getting out of the containment zone.

• Comfortable

All the protection in the world is actually not worth much if the dog doesn’t tolerate the system. The SpotOn Collar, however, is quite lightweight and designed with your dog in mind. Therefore, your dog will not only stop noticing the device quickly but also can still go around his/her day without being bothered.

• Tracking Ability

The SpotOn Collar has an optional plan that lets you track your dog to within 10 feet if he/she ever breaches the perimeter. This is a great feature for those that keep the device on their beloved pets even when the fencing solution is not attached because it allows you to easily determine where your dog has gone.

• Fully Wireless

The lack of wires makes the SpotOn collar a great fir for those that either don’t like the idea of digging up their yards or those unable to do so. The lack of wires is not just a set-up feature, but also a feature that will give you more peace of mind if your dog wanders after a storm or in situations likely to make a more traditional invisible fence fail.

• Customizable Parameters

The ability to customize where your dog can roam is another cool feature of this collar. You can not only set up a fenced-in area that gives your furry friend a lot of space, but you can also set up multiple other areas that will let you have better control over where your dog goes. The SpotOn Collar is ideal for those looking for a product that helps you set up precise locations where the dog can and cannot go.

• Made for Active Dogs

The SpotOn Collar is great for dogs that love to play. It doesn’t fall off easily and won’t break even if it gets a bit wet. Your beloved pet can run around, splash in the water, or even do for a swim without the need to take off the collar.

• Great Warranty

The SpotOn collar is supported by a 45-day money-back guarantee thus giving you plenty of time to determine whether or not you actually like it. If you do, you will enjoy another 1 year of coverage that will let you send back the collar and get a replacement if you ever run into any other issues. This shows that the manufacturer cares about the users and their pets.

• The Collar Itself

The collar is completely self-contained and all that you need is contained within: you don’t have any software, physical parts, or even extra wires to deal with. It is also completely rechargeable and contains sufficient power for a 24-hour charge.

Basic bumps and shocks aren’t an issue with this unit since it is made for actual, active dogs. If somebody finds your beloved pet before you do, the collar displays your phone number along with the dog’s name.

See more features at SpotOn website

App Overview

SpotOn comes with a companion iPhone app that can be quite helpful in times of crisis. If your dog unfortunately escapes the containment zone, or you lose your beloved pet in an area that isn’t one of your containment locations, the app can be of great help.

After a 60-day free trial, you can track your dog if he/she escapes a containment location for a small monthly fee. The app will send you a text message in case your beloved pet manages to break out of the set containment zone and will allow you to easily track his/her movements.

The companion SpotOn iPhone app offers several key benefits, such as:

• Updates every 6 seconds that shows the dog’s exact location
• Works across all cell signals or even without one
• Acts as a GPS that leads straight to your furry friend

The SpotOn Dog Collar is completely self-contained unlike other apps that either require a cell signal to function or are slow to work and can be used irrespective of the situation. It connects to 3 different satellites thus giving you accurate and real-time information regarding the exact location of your dog.

Is It Easy to Set Up and Get Started?

It is simply impossible to overstate just how easy it is to use this device. If you know how to put on a regular collar on your dog as well as how to use a basic GPS-based phone app, you can rest assured that you have all you need to use the SpotOn Collar. While you don’t need anything else besides the collar to create the perimeter, you can use optional flags as visual markers for the fence boundary.

Unlike most invisible or virtual fences that are currently available, SpotOn uses a completely virtual system, which means that there’s no need to dig up the perimeter of your yard and install an underground wiring system. The collar itself is all you need to create the fence. All the necessary technology is contained within the device.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Is SpotOn or Halo Collar the Better GPS Collar?

Since there’s no installation needed, setting up the containment zone is as simple as registering your system, turning on the device, and walking with it around the outside of the containment zone. You can easily save virtual fences, and each device can have as many as 10 unique perimeters programed.

How Do You Set Up Your Virtual Fence?

The first step is to decide exactly where you would like the boundaries of the fence to be. Ensure that those boundaries are at least 15 feet away from unwanted terrains such as a neighbor’s yard or a road.

You are free to use the optional boundary flags to help you physically outline this area. The flags should make it easier when you start to set up your containment zone, but you can remove them afterwards.

To start creating the containment zone, you must first be holding the device in your hand with a clear view of the sky. Next, turn on the device and navigate the menu to “create a new map”. The collar will need to first establish a GPS signal that can take anywhere from 30 seconds to 3 minutes.

Once the GPS signal is established, the collar will ask whether you prefer a custom map or a circle map. Next, walk to the start point for the containment zine, and click on the “custom” option to start creating your map.

From that point, all you have to do is walk your preferred boundary line yourself. Keep holding the collar up and in your hand to ensure the best GPS signal possible while you do this.

Finally, walk the entire length of the boundary until you return to the starting point. If you encounter any obstacle that’s impossible to physically pass, pause the GPS mapping function and resume on the other side of that obstacle.

Is the SpotOn GPS Dog Fence Effective?

The quick answer is Yes.

The SpotOn Dog Fence is a highly effective, highly customizable, and considerably more affordable than a regular fence. If you are looking to make sure that your furry friend stays on your property without getting lost, this device is an excellent investment. It has helped numerous other pet owners and can help you too.

What Happens When Your Dog “Breaks” the GPS Barrier?

The SpotOn Collar uses 2 correction methods to help prevent breaches of the barrier and train the dog:

The first method is purely audible. There are 2 warning areas within 10 feet of the designated boundary. The audible feedback becomes harsher as the dog proceeds into the warning areas. After proper training, the audible warnings should be enough to prevent him/her from leaving the containment zone.

Dogs, however, can be hardheaded at time. If h/she does leave the area, the collar can provide a mild static correction. You have the option to choose from multiple levels of static correction based on the age and size of your pet. The static correction should be sufficient to encourage your beloved pet to turn around and get back home.

Other collars apply a second static shock when the dog crosses the boundary to get back home. Obviously, this is not ideal for training purposes since it simply confuses the dog. Fortunately, the SpotOn Collar is designed such that it doesn’t provide a second static shock when the dog is crossing the barrier to get back home.

Is the SpotOn Collar Waterproof?

Yes.

Dogs love playing in water and mud and this is something the SpotOn team considered when designing this collar. In fact, the collar was tested under extreme conditions to ensure maximum durability and it has earned an IP67 waterproof status.

What We Love About SpotOn Collar

• Fences work on GPS meaning that poor cell coverage won’t affect your containment locations
• It is the most accurate GPS fence solution that connects with 3 satellite navigation systems and can pinpoint the location of your dog to within 10 feet
• It is very easy to adjust and allows you to really set up amazing play and exercise for your beloved pet no matter your location
• You don’t need to dig up your yard to install underground wires or even check on physical boundaries
• It works perfectly with dogs of different temperaments and sizes, which means that you never have to worry about its efficacy
• It is well-engineered, even when it is compared to some of the best virtual fences currently available in the market
• It provides great flexibility and allows for multiple fences in the same location, which means that you can fence just the back, just the front, or the whole yard.

Any Negatives?

• If you plan to track your dog, you must have decent cell coverage and this makes it incredibly difficult to use if you live in an area with spotty coverage
• It is quite expensive compared to other virtual fences.

Price: How Much Does SpotOn Cost?

The SpotOn Collar costs $1,495. However, you will need a personal system for each of the dogs in your household. Still, the price won’t increase depending on the size of your home. If you buy 2 or more devices at a time, you will receive an automated 15% discount rate.

Funding alternatives are also provided with month-to-month plans for 12-months, 18-months, or 24-months. Optional Connection expenses after a 60-day free trial are $6.95/month that lets you track your dog, get escape alerts, status updates, and manage your maps from your phone.

*Price current at the time of publication – see most up-to-date pricing at SpotOn website

Summary: You Should Buy the SpotOn if…

Your personal needs are the right match. Are you the kind of person that wants a highly accurate GPS fence so that you may feel safe allowing your beloved pet roam around? If so, are you a person that has no problem paying a premium to guarantee that kind of safety?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to either or both of these questions then you are definitely the kind of person that should consider buying this product. It was intended for people that really want their dogs to roam, but live in a place where building a physical fence is a realistic possibility.

The SpotOn Collar is an excellent investment for any dog owner even those that have physical fences. The fact that it uses 3 satellites and inertial tracking sensors make this device one of the most accurate location trackers currently available.

It is a great training tool and offers far more customizable features than any of the competitors. If you are looking for the best GPS collar for your dog, then you cannot go wrong by choosing the SpotOn GPS fence.

To sum up all the reasons why you should consider buying this product:

• It uses 3 satellites to ensure precise tracking of your dog
• It is easy to use and set up the virtual fence
• It is backed by a great warranty
• You have a virtual fence everywhere you go
• The companion app is easy to use and offers great value