35 Best Fresh Dog Foods for Health-Conscious Pet Parents

35 Fresh Dog Foods are transforming what pet parents think about canine nutrition. With growing awareness regarding the benefits of true whole-food ingredients, fresh dog food has emerged as a top-of-the-line choice for health-conscious dog parents.

Having converted several clients to fresh food from traditional kibble or canned food, I can confidently say that it does make a difference—anything from shinier coats and better digestion to more even energy levels. You no longer have to question what is in your dog’s food.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll introduce you to the best 35 fresh dog foods available. We’ll look at nutritional content, sourcing methods, ingredient transparency, and company reputation. If you’re on the lookout for vet-formulated meals or subscription plans with customization features, you’ll find the best option to match your dog and your lifestyle.

To ensure you’re choosing wisely, it’s a smart move to also explore our guide on Dog Food Brands to Avoid so you can steer clear of brands that fail to meet modern standards.

Expert Picks: The Top 35 Best Fresh Dog Foods in 2024

As someone who’s helped hundreds of dog owners transition from dry or canned meals to fresh dog food, I’ve seen the difference firsthand. When you choose quality, whole-food meals made with human-grade ingredients, you’re not just feeding—you’re healing, nourishing, and energizing your pup.

Let’s explore the best 35 fresh food options trusted by vets, loved by dogs, and proven to improve health.

1. The Farmer’s Dog – Human-Grade Fresh Dog Food

Why I Recommend It: If you want a fully customized plan based on your dog’s profile, this subscription-based fresh dog food delivers.

Pros:

• Vet-formulated
• USDA human-grade ingredients
• Pre-portioned & delivered to your door

Cons:

• Subscription-only
• Premium pricing

 External Authority: AKC on Fresh Dog Food Benefits

2. Nom Nom – Personalized Fresh Dog Food

Why I Recommend It: I’ve recommended Nom Nom to clients seeking science-backed, small-batch cooked meals.

Pros:

• Formulated by veterinary nutritionists
• Offers microbiome testing
• Transparent ingredient sourcing

Cons:

• Limited protein options
• Subscription required

Related: Best Dog Foods for Small Dogs

3. Spot & Tango – Fresh and Unkibble Options

Why I Recommend It: A great bridge between fresh dog food and shelf-stable convenience.

Pros:

• Offers both fresh & dry “Unkibble”
• Uses lean meats and vegetables
• No artificial additives

Cons:

• Costly for multi-dog homes
• Packaging may vary by region

4. PetPlate – Fresh-Cooked, Delivered Dog Meals

Why I Recommend It: One of the most dog-approved brands I’ve seen, especially with picky eaters.

Pros:

• Vet-designed meals
• Flash-frozen for freshness
• Great taste and palatability

Cons:

• Less customizable than competitors
• Higher delivery fees in remote areas

5. JustFoodForDogs – Prescription & Everyday Fresh Meals

Why I Recommend It: This is my go-to for dogs with medical diets—especially GI, renal, and weight management needs.

Pros:

• Vet-approved prescription options
• Made in open-to-public kitchens
• Available in stores & online

Cons:

• Requires vet approval for certain meals
• Not ideal for dogs with multiple allergies

 Match it with gut health practices from our Dog Hygiene Guide

6. Ollie – Fresh Dog Food with Limited Ingredients

Why I Recommend It: For allergy-prone dogs, Ollie’s limited-ingredient fresh dog food is a safe, healthy pick.

Pros:

• Single-source proteins
• Low-glycemic carb options
• Personalized plans

Cons:

• Fewer exotic proteins
• Subscription-only

7. Raised Right – Home-Cooked Style with Transparency

Why I Recommend It: You’ll love their traceability—every ingredient is documented from farm to bowl.

Pros:

• Home-cooked recipes
• Certified low-carb and high-protein
• Great for diabetic dogs

Cons:

• Pricier per meal
• Fewer recipes to choose from

8. A Pup Above – Sous Vide Fresh Dog Food

Why I Recommend It: This sous-vide option locks in flavor and nutrients. Great for dogs that need real meat texture.

Pros:

• Protein-packed and grain-free
• Fully cooked and ready to serve
• Great visual appeal (looks like stew!)

Cons:

• Slightly greasy for some dogs
• Limited availability in retail stores

9. Evermore – Small-Batch Organic Dog Meals

Why I Recommend It: For holistic-focused owners, this USDA organic brand is gold.

Pros:

• All recipes made with organic meats
• Hand-cooked in small batches
• Zero preservatives or additives

Cons:

• One of the most expensive brands
• Fewer options for large-breed needs

10. Chi Dog – Chinese Medicine-Inspired Fresh Food

Why I Recommend It: For dogs with emotional or seasonal imbalances, Chi Dog tailors food based on Eastern medicine.

Pros:

• Based on 5 Chinese element theory
• Target conditions like anxiety or inflammation
• Very high digestibility

Cons:

• May be overwhelming for first-time pet parents
• Subscription needed

For new pet owners, review The Real Cost of Adopting a Pet before diving in.

11. Gently Cooked by Open Farm

Why I Recommend It: This brand merges sustainability with ethical sourcing.

Pros:

• Meat from Certified Humane farms
• Cooked at low temperatures
• Also offers bone broth boosters

Cons:

• Limited flavor choices
• Pricey for large-breed families

12. Freshpet Vital Grain-Free Rolls

Why I Recommend It: Widely available in stores, this is a great entry-level fresh dog food option.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to slice and serve
• Available in major retail chains

Cons:

• Short fridge life once opened
• Lower meat content than premium brands

Also, explore the Wet Dog Foods Guide if your pup prefers soft meals.

13. Tylee’s Human-Grade Frozen Dog Food (Chewy Exclusive)

Why I Recommend It: If you shop at Chewy, this fresh dog food line offers solid value with human-grade quality.

Pros:

• USDA-approved meats and veggies
• Flash-frozen to lock in nutrients
• Affordable for small-to-medium breeds

Cons:

• Needs freezer storage
• No subscription flexibility

14. Maev Raw Fresh Dog Food

Why I Recommend It: Maev is ideal for dog owners seeking raw nutrition without the prep hassle.

Pros:

• Human-grade, raw format
• Boosted with supplements (turmeric, probiotics)
• Delivered frozen

Cons:

• Raw feeding may take adjustment
• Higher fat content than some cooked foods

Tip: Pair raw food diets with regular tick treatment to avoid health risks in active outdoor dogs.

15. Portland Pet Food Company

Why I Recommend It: This is my favorite for on-the-go pet parents or travel feeding.

Pros:

• Shelf-stable pouches (no fridge needed)
• Great for picky eaters
• Made in small batches

Cons:

• Limited protein options
• Small portion size per pack

16. Redbarn Naturals Grain-Free Rolled Food

Why I Recommend It: If you’re transitioning to fresh dog food from kibble, Redbarn is a great hybrid.

Pros:

• Can be served as a treat, topper, or meal
• No artificial preservatives
• High protein

Cons:

• Denser than fresh-cooked food
• Needs refrigeration once opened

17. Balance by bistroMD Fresh Pet Food

Why I Recommend It: This is ideal for pet parents who want calorie-controlled portions made by nutritionists.

Pros:

• Designed by medical doctors & nutritionists
• Delivered frozen
• Easy-to-read nutrition panels

Cons:

• Currently available in limited states
• Pricey for multi-pet households

18. Brambell Fresh Dog Meals

Why I Recommend It: A solid choice for those wanting an ethical and holistic feeding solution.

Pros:

• Transparent ingredient sourcing
• No synthetic additives
• Grain-free and allergy-conscious

Cons:

• Not yet widely distributed
• Short shelf life once thawed

Learn more about food-based naming with Food Names for Dogs

19. Savage Cat Fresh Canine Meals

Why I Recommend It: If you’ve got a multi-pet household (cats and dogs), Savage Cat’s fresh dog line works well for raw cross-feeding.

Pros:

• Raw, ethically sourced meats
• Organ-inclusive formulas
• Ideal for allergy elimination diets

Cons:

• Requires safe handling
• Subscription required

20. Fetch Fresh Dog Food by Grocery Pup

Why I Recommend It: For dogs who crave real texture and whole ingredients, this sous-vide style food wins.

Pros:

• Whole visible ingredients
• Vacuum-sealed for freshness
• Low-temp cooking retains nutrients

Cons:

• Heavier to ship
• Limited protein selection

21. Petcurean Now Fresh

Why I Recommend It: Great for small and senior breeds, this offers both shelf-stable and fresh options.

Pros:

• No meat meals or by-products
• Small breed recipes available
• Soft texture for sensitive mouths

Cons:

• On the softer side—may need a texture booster
• Not as protein-dense as others

22. Farm Fresh Pet Foods (Local Delivery Service)

Why I Recommend It: Ideal for pet parents supporting local businesses and wanting freshly made meals.

Pros:

• Made locally, delivered weekly
• High ingredient transparency
• Often customizable to dietary needs

Cons:

• Location-specific
• Short use-by dates

23. NomNomNow Variety Pack Trial Meals

Why I Recommend It: A perfect way to test which fresh dog food your pup prefers before subscribing.

Pros:

• Small-batch sample sizes
• Fast shipping
• Easy to mix with kibble

Cons:

• Only available as a trial kit
• Costs more per ounce

24. Tailored Pet Fresh Food Trial Kit

Why I Recommend It: When clients aren’t sure what works, this customized fresh dog food starter pack is my go-to.

Pros:

• Tailored by size, breed, age, and lifestyle
• Pre-portioned
• Easily digestible proteins

Cons:

• Trial only covers a few meals
• Upsell into subscriptions

25. Spring Naturals Fresh Pet Food

Why I Recommend It: A lesser-known but solid brand focused on balanced, grain-inclusive nutrition.

Pros:

• Real meat plus healthy grains
• Rich in omega fatty acids
• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited availability
• Doesn’t suit grain-free diets

26. Heed Foods Fresh Meal Boosters

Why I Recommend It: I often suggest this to owners not ready for full fresh feeding but wanting a nutritional upgrade.

Pros:

• Freeze-dried meal toppers
• Adds flavor and nutrients to kibble
• Grain-free options

Cons:

• Not a full meal replacement
• Best for supplementing, not stand-alone feeding

27. Crafted Kibble Fresh Meal Mix-Ins

Why I Recommend It: A cost-effective way to introduce fresh dog food without committing to full subscriptions.

Pros:

• Delivered fresh in small packs
• Adds hydration and texture
• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• Needs to be paired with dry food
• Best for non-picky eaters

28. Homestyle Select Fresh Food (Walmart Exclusive)

Why I Recommend It: For owners on a budget, this store-brand fresh food is a great starting point.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Real meat base
• No artificial flavors

Cons:

• Lower in protein than competitors
• Shelf life is shorter once opened

Budget-focused? Explore the Best Budget-Friendly Dog Foods guide.

29. The Honest Kitchen Fresh Wet Clusters

Why I Recommend It: A unique mix of dry and fresh nutrition made with 100% human-grade ingredients.

Pros:

• Gently roasted for texture
• Contains real meat and veggies
• Dehydrated clusters retain freshness

Cons:

• Needs careful portioning
• Premium price per bag

30. Fresh Is Best Freeze-Dried Raw Patties

Why I Recommend It: For raw feeders needing shelf stability, this brand checks every box.

Pros:

• Freeze-dried raw nutrition
• Lightweight and easy to store
• Excellent digestibility

Cons:

• Must be rehydrated
• Strong meat smell

31. Jinx Fresh Freeze-Dried Meal Toppers

Why I Recommend It: For pet parents dipping their toes into the fresh dog food trend, this is an ideal introduction.

Pros:

• Freeze-dried and human-grade
• Boosts flavor and nutrition instantly
• Great as a travel-friendly option

Cons:

• Not a complete meal by itself
• Slightly pricier per ounce

32. Open Farm Gently Cooked Fresh Meals

Why I Recommend It: I recommend Open Farm for owners who prioritize ethically sourced ingredients with a side of sustainability.

Pros:

• Certified humane proteins
• Transparent sourcing with QR traceability
• Offers grain- and grain-free options

Cons:

• Requires freezer space
• Premium pricing

Want full control of sourcing? Open Farm also pairs well with our Dry Dog Food Guide for mixed-meal plans.

33. Natural Dog Company Fresh Food Supplements

Why I Recommend It: A functional option for dogs recovering from illness or needing added vitamins.

Pros:

• Superfood blends like turmeric, bone broth
• Mixes well with any food
• Targets joint, skin, or gut health

Cons:

• Not a stand-alone diet
• Needs consistency for results

34. Happy Dog Fresh Pet Food

Why I Recommend It: Great for large breeds or active dogs with high caloric needs.

Pros:

• High meat content
• Ideal for performance and sports dogs
• Subscription & bulk options available

Cons:

• Heavier shipping costs
• Not ideal for weight-sensitive dogs

Training high-drive dogs like the Malinois? Explore our Belgian Malinois Training Guide

35. Hungry Bark Fresh Frozen Dog Meals

Why I Recommend It: Balanced, protein-forward, and designed to support long-term wellness—this is my sleeper pick for 2024.

Pros:

• Superfood ingredients like spinach, flaxseed
• Recipes crafted by animal nutritionists
• Great customer service

Cons:

• Must be thawed before serving
• Limited availability in local stores

Final Thoughts: Choose the Best Fresh Dog Food With Confidence

As a seasoned advisor in canine nutrition, I firmly believe that fresh dog food is one of the most powerful shifts you can make in your dog’s wellness journey. Whether you’re trying to prevent allergies, enhance digestion, improve coat condition, or simply avoid harmful preservatives—fresh feeding offers unmatched benefits.

The list of 35 best fresh dog foods above includes a variety of options for different budgets, lifestyles, and feeding needs. From subscription-based gourmet meals to shelf-stable mixers, each brand delivers on quality and nutrition.

Remember, fresh feeding isn’t just about what you add—it’s about what you eliminate: no fillers, artificial flavors, or hidden chemicals. Pair any of these diets with consistent grooming and hygiene using our trusted Dog Hygiene Tips and stay informed with top pet health resources like the AVMA for safe storage practices.