Is Freshpet Dog Food Good?

As devoted pet parents, we always seek the best ways to nourish and nurture our furry companions. Recently, my quest for the ideal dog food led me to explore the ins and outs of Freshpet Dog Food.

Intrigued by the buzz surrounding its freshness and quality, I conducted a thorough analysis to uncover the truth behind the claims.

In this in-depth exploration, I’ll be sharing my firsthand experiences, unraveling the pros and cons of Freshpet Dog Food, and helping you decide whether this could be the perfect fit for your beloved pooch.

Table of Contents

Overview

Quality Assessment	Fresh pet dog food is generally considered good for dogs.
Expert Recommendations	Some veterinarians recommend Freshpet food, but opinions may vary. – There are both endorsements and criticisms from pet experts.
Nutritional Value	Fresh pet dog food provides competitive nutritional value for dogs. Specific health benefits are associated.
Consumer Experiences	Dog owners report varied experiences with Freshpet. Common feedback includes both positive and negative aspects.
Varieties and Options	Freshpet offers various varieties and options for canines. Formulations cater to different breeds, sizes, and health conditions.
Price and Accessibility	Freshpet dog food cost may vary but is generally competitive. It is readily available in pet stores and online.
Potential Allergens or Sensitivities	There are no widespread reports of allergens or sensitivities, but individual cases may vary. No significant issues reported regarding allergies or digestive problems.
Long-term Health Considerations	Limited studies on long-term effects, but Freshpet dog food is generally considered safe. No specific health concerns have been widely reported over time.

Absolutely Yes: Freshpet dog food is a stellar choice for your furry friend and could positively impact their overall health. The brand dedicates itself to using top-notch, natural ingredients with minimal or no preservatives.

However, whether it suits your dog depends on their health, dietary needs, and taste preferences. It’s vital to carefully examine the ingredient list of the specific product, consider your pup’s unique requirements, and consult your veterinarian to ensure it’s a good fit for their overall well-being.

Importance of Choosing the Right Dog Food

Choosing the right dog food is crucial for your pet’s overall health and well-being. Proper Nutrition is significant in your pup’s growth, development, and daily functioning. Here are some reasons highlighting the importance of selecting the right canine food:

Nutritional Balance:

Ensures proper growth and development.

Provides essential nutrients like proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Energy Levels:

Matches dietary needs to support daily activities.

Prevents weight issues and promotes optimal weight.

Digestive Health:

Quality ingredients reduce the risk of gastrointestinal problems.

Supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Weight Management:

Helps prevent obesity-related health issues.

Appropriate portion sizes maintain a healthy weight.

Skin and Coat Health:

Balanced nutrients contribute to a shiny coat.

Prevents skin allergies and excessive shedding.

Joint Health:

Includes beneficial compounds like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Addresses the needs of breeds prone to joint issues.

Dental Health:

Reduces plaque and tartar buildup.

Promotes better oral hygiene.

Immune System Support:

Provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Helps resist illness and supports quick recovery.

Long-Term Health:

A nutritious diet contributes to a longer and happier life.

Tailored to specific needs based on age, breed, and health conditions.

Freshpet Dog Food Ingredients

Chicken

Chicken Broth

Chicken Liver

Spinach

Potatoes

Eggs

Pea Fiber

Carrageenan

Natural Flavors

Salt

Potassium Chloride

Minerals

Zinc Proteinate

Iron Proteinate

Copper Proteinate

Manganese Proteinate

Sodium Selenite

Calcium Iodate

Vitamins

Choline Chloride

Vitamin E Supplement

Niacin

Calcium Pantothenate

Biotin

Thiamine Mononitrate

Riboflavin

Vitamin B12 Supplement

Vitamin D3 Supplement

Pyridoxine Hydrochloride

Folic Acid

Celery Powder

Pros of Freshpet Dog Food

No Grains, Gluten, Soy, or Fillers: Suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs.
No Meat Meals, By-Product Meals: Indicates the use of whole meats.

No Preservatives or Fillers: Emphasizes natural ingredients.
Complete & Balanced: Suitable for small, medium, and large adult dogs.

Cons of Freshpet Dog Food

Refrigeration Required: May inconvenience pet owners who prefer non-refrigerated options.

Short Shelf Life: Should be used within 7 days of opening, limiting long-term storage options.
Limited Fat Information: Specific fat content not provided, important for dogs with specific dietary needs.
Carrageenan: Some pet owners may be concerned about its potential effects on digestive health.

Not Grain-Free: While it lacks grains, it may not meet the needs of pet owners seeking grain-free options.
Not Suitable for Allergies: May not be suitable for dogs with specific allergies or sensitivities to listed ingredients.

Do Vets Recommend Freshpet Dog Food?

Freshpet is generally considered a good option for dog food by some veterinarians and pet owners. Freshpet offers refrigerated dog food made with natural ingredients, and some veterinarians may recommend it as a fresh and balanced alternative to traditional dry or canned dog food.

However, individual recommendations may vary based on a dog’s dietary needs, health conditions, and preferences. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice on the best diet for your dog.

When making recommendations, they can consider your dog’s age, size, breed, health status, and any specific dietary requirements.

Which Dog Should Not Eat Fresh Pet Dog Food?

Dogs with certain health conditions, allergies, or dietary restrictions may need special considerations. Here are some scenarios in which Freshpet or any other specific dog food may not be appropriate:

Allergies or Sensitivities: Dogs with allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients (e.g., chicken, beef, grains) should avoid Freshpet or any other dog food containing those allergens.
Medical Conditions: Dogs with certain medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, pancreatitis, diabetes) may require a special diet tailored to their health needs.
Prescription Diets: Dogs with specific health issues may benefit from prescription diets veterinarians recommend.

Puppies and Senior Dogs: Choose the appropriate Freshpet formula for your dog’s life stage (puppy or senior) to ensure they receive the right nutrients.
Consultation with Veterinarian: Before making significant diet changes, especially for dogs with health issues, consult a veterinarian for personalized advice and recommendations.

Can You Freeze Freshpet Dog Food?

Freshpet dog food is designed to be refrigerated and served fresh. Freezing is generally not recommended, as freezing can affect the texture and flavor of the food. Additionally, the quality of some ingredients may be compromised when frozen and then thawed.

If you have excess Freshpet dog food that you won’t be able to use before it reaches its expiration date, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure to seal the packaging tightly to maintain freshness.

Always check the packaging for specific storage instructions, as different varieties of Freshpet dog food may have slightly different recommendations. If you have any concerns or questions about storing your dog’s food, contact the Freshpet customer service for guidance.

Freshpet Dog Food Reviews

By: Jenny Slonski

“I cook for my 9 year old Pit/Rot mix, Fiona, but I add FreshPet to ensure that it’s nutritionally sound and not lacking any vitamins or minerals. For a fussy girl who may be a bit spoiled, FreshPet is a well-tolerated addition to her meals and she always cleans her bowl. So, she has a full tummy and I have peace of mind that I’m not diminishing the quality of her food by adding preservatives and byproducts. Just tasty morsels that she loves.”

By: Mike fink

“my Boxer loves this food and she is picky AF. i had her on farmers dog, and that was great however i needed something easier to get on the fly (we had a few missed shipments with FD due to FedEx) and this food is available on prime + grocery (also in local stores like Frys & Target), it is less expensive than the auto delivered fresh food and actually easier to measure out as well. I love that it gives you the 1/2 cup lines (the smaller tubes have 1/4 lines). i find her sitting and drooling while I’m cutting it up, she now knows which cutting board is for her food and her little boxer nub starts shaking with excitement.”

By: Terrie

“Our Lab 4 yrs old has been so picky! We’ve went through so many different brands of dry food and he would try it for awhile then wouldn’t eat anymore of it. We introduced him the Freshpet and he loves it! It is very expensive but at least he likes it. We may have just found something he will eat!”

By: Alexis Davis

“It upset my dogs sensitive stomach on the first day, but she seems to really enjoy it. I add it as a topper to dry food, and she likes it a lot. It’s a bit messy.”

By: Angie Turner

“I would give it 5 stars but it constipates her. If I don’t switch between this and Stella and chewy’s raw dehydrated beef she has problems going poop. I do love that you can now purchase it on Amazon. The stores run out constantly.”

Related Post: Can Dogs Eat Chicken Tenders?

Self Tested Review

My German Shepherd has an incredibly sensitive stomach. In 18 months of having him with us, we embarked on a seemingly endless journey through various dog food brands, exploring different proteins, grain and grain-free options, etc.

At one point, he experienced persistent diarrhea for over a month, leading to numerous vet visits and a sense of helplessness on our part. It turned out that red meats were a major trigger for him; beef, bison, or anything similar was simply intolerable.

We had initially steered clear of FreshPet due to its relatively higher cost, especially since he consumes about 3 lbs of food daily.

However, within just one day of making the switch, his stool returned to normal, and he genuinely enjoys the food. After about 8 months on FreshPet, he has maintained a consistent weight, and we haven’t looked back. Despite the occasional stock shortages, we diligently hunt for sales to make it more economical.

In addition to our German Shepherd, our senior dog, who had been on Purina throughout his life, also transitioned to FreshPet. High fat content in dry foods had caused severe pancreatitis, and he developed a jaw abscess, making it painful for him to chew dry food. Enter FreshPet – low fat, higher protein.

The pancreatitis subsided, his weight became more manageable, and his appetite returned to normal. Seeing some of his youthful energy restored at the age of 13 was amazing.

I understand the challenge of finding the right dog food, and FreshPet has undeniably been our solution.

Top Complaints About Freshpet Dog Food

Simone Blanchette says: It upset my dogs sensitive stomach on the first day.

Welly Says: it constipates my dog.

Dave Says: it looks like something out of Fallout 4 and smells even worse.

DeeAnn Kelly Says: I didn’t like having to mash it up. I prefer the one that comes in the bag in small bite size pieces.

Aydel Berman says: It goes bad in the fridge pretty quickly when purchasing a large size.

Shannon says: My dogs got tired of this brand after one week.

Averie Hasselbalch says: My vet said this was not a good source for nutrition. My dog gained fat and hot muscle.

FAQs

Is Freshpet healthy for your dog?

Freshpet can be a healthy option for dogs as it offers a balance of fresh meats, vegetables, and grains. Its refrigerated nature helps retain nutrients, but individual responses may vary, so consult your vet for personalized advice.

What are the side effects of Freshpet dog food?

While Freshpet generally promotes well-being, some dogs may experience digestive issues like diarrhea or upset stomach during a diet transition. Gradual introduction and monitoring can help alleviate potential side effects.

How long can you freeze freshpet dog food?

You can freeze Freshpet dog food for up to a few months without compromising its quality. Ensure proper storage in a sealed container to maintain freshness and nutritional value.

Is Freshpet raw or cooked?

Freshpet is cooked to eliminate harmful bacteria while preserving essential nutrients. This cooking process ensures the food’s safety for your dog while providing a diet rich in natural ingredients.

How much Freshpet do I feed my dog?

The amount of Freshpet to feed your dog depends on factors like size, age, and activity level. Generally, guidelines on the packaging can help, but consulting with your veterinarian for precise recommendations based on your dog’s needs is ideal.

Related Post: Can Dogs Eat Steaming Hot Food?

Final Thoughts: Is Freshpet Dog Food Good?

In conclusion, Freshpet dog food undeniably stands out as an excellent option for pet owners seeking top-quality nutrition for their furry companions. With a commitment to premium, natural ingredients and minimal use of preservatives, it can significantly enhance your dog’s overall health.

Nevertheless, the suitability of Freshpet for your dog hinges on individual factors such as health, dietary needs, and taste preferences. To make the best choice for your canine companion, take the time to scrutinize the ingredient list of the specific product, consider your pup’s unique requirements, and seek advice from your veterinarian.

By doing so, you’ll ensure that your beloved pet enjoys a diet that satisfies their taste buds and promotes their well-being and longevity.

Overview