As a pet nutrition researcher and someone who has reviewed dozens of dog food brands over the years, I've noticed a growing trend: more pet parents are moving beyond traditional kibble and exploring fresh food alternatives for their dogs.
Freshpet is one of the most recognizable names in the fresh dog food category. Available in the refrigerated sections of grocery stores, pet retailers, and big-box chains, the brand positions itself as a less processed, more wholesome alternative to conventional dry dog food.
For this Freshpet dog food review, I took a deep dive into the brand's ingredients, nutritional profiles, product variety and real customer experiences. I also purchased and photographed several recipes myself, so all of the images featured throughout this review are my own original photos of the packaging, ingredient panels and food texture.
After thoroughly evaluating the brand, I set out to answer one simple question:
Not ideal for households seeking maximum convenience
Some recipes contain ingredients that may not suit every dog
Final Score: 8.8/10
Freshpet offers high-quality fresh dog food with excellent ingredient transparency, strong protein sources, and impressive palatability. While the cost is significantly higher than kibble, many owners report noticeable health improvements that help justify the premium price.
Freshpet Dog Food Review
1. Vital Chicken Recipe (Small Breed)
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Pea Protein
Crafted specifically for small-breed dogs, this fresh, grain-free recipe combines real chicken with nutrient-rich carrots, sweet potatoes and cranberries to deliver complete and balanced nutrition. Made with simple, whole-food ingredients, the recipe is gently steamed to help preserve essential vitamins, minerals and natural flavors.
Developed by veterinary nutritionists, it provides targeted levels of protein and fat to support the higher energy needs of small dogs while helping maintain lean muscle mass and overall vitality. The soft, fresh texture is highly palatable, making it an appealing option for picky eaters.
Free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and harmful additives, this refrigerated recipe offers a wholesome alternative to traditional dry food. The convenient resealable packaging helps keep each serving fresh, making mealtime easy while supporting your dog's long-term health and well-being.
This freshly prepared dog meal is crafted with real ground chicken and turkey to deliver high-quality, natural protein that supports lean muscle maintenance and overall vitality. Designed as a complete and balanced recipe, it provides essential nutrients your dog needs for daily health and long-term wellness.
Each batch is carefully cooked in small portions to help preserve flavor, texture, and nutritional integrity. The recipe also includes a wholesome blend of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, including cranberries, sweet potatoes, carrots and green beans, which help support immune health, digestion and overall well-being.
Specially packaged to remain frozen during transit, this meal arrives ready to store and serve with convenience and freshness in mind. With no unnecessary fillers or artificial preservatives, it offers a clean, nourishing alternative to heavily processed dog foods, helping support a healthier, more vibrant life for your pet.
3. Vital Healthy & Natural Large Breed
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Beef, Egg (source of Glucosamine), Salmon, Beef Liver (source of L-Carnitine)
Formulated specifically for large-breed dogs, this fresh recipe is crafted with simple, carefully selected ingredients designed to support strong muscles, healthy joints and overall well-being. Each ingredient is chosen for its natural nutritional benefits, helping provide balanced daily nourishment tailored to the needs of bigger dogs.
Rich in high-quality protein and enhanced with fish oil, this recipe delivers essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. The ingredients are gently steamed to help preserve vital nutrients, natural flavors, and overall ingredient integrity.
Developed by veterinary nutritionists, the formula provides targeted levels of protein and fat to support healthy body condition in large breeds, without unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. Every serving is designed to deliver complete and balanced nutrition for long-term health and vitality.
Conveniently packaged in a resealable bag, it stays fresh in the refrigerator and makes daily feeding simple and efficient. Free from harmful preservatives, this wholesome recipe supports your dog’s energy, strength, and overall quality of life—helping them thrive every day by your side.
Designed specifically for growing puppies, this fresh, nutrient-dense recipe delivers a balanced and highly digestible meal made with real chicken, beef and salmon. Each ingredient is carefully selected to provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients that support healthy development during the most important stage of your puppy’s life.
Gently cooked to help preserve natural nutrients and enhance digestibility, this recipe is formulated by veterinary nutritionists to ensure complete and balanced nutrition. It is enriched with DHA to support healthy brain development, along with the right levels of protein, fat and minerals to promote strong bones, joints and muscle growth.
Free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, this wholesome meal offers a clean and natural feeding option for pet parents who prioritize quality nutrition. The convenient slice-and-serve format makes portioning simple, ensuring fresh, consistent meals every time. This carefully crafted recipe helps puppies grow strong, active and healthy as they begin life by your side.
This fresh, nutrient-focused recipe is thoughtfully crafted with simple, purposeful ingredients designed to support your dog’s overall health and long-term mobility. Gently steamed to help preserve essential vitamins and minerals, it delivers clean, wholesome nutrition in every serving.
Formulated by veterinary nutritionists, this chicken and salmon-based recipe provides lean, high-quality protein along with naturally occurring sources of glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids. These key nutrients work together to help support joint health, maintain flexibility, and promote comfortable movement at every life stage.
Free from artificial preservatives, colors and flavors, this complete and balanced meal offers a natural approach to daily feeding. With its focus on joint support and whole-body wellness, it helps keep dogs active, comfortable and thriving—so they can continue enjoying an energetic, happy life by your side.
6. Dognation Turkey Bacon
First 5 ingredients:
Turkey, Water, Pea Fiber, Salt, Potassium Chloride
These irresistible grain-free treats are made with nutrient-rich turkey as the first ingredient, delivering a protein-packed reward that dogs love. Naturally smoked for a savory flavor and aroma, each bite is crafted to satisfy cravings while providing wholesome nutrition.
Made with carefully selected ingredients, the recipe is gently cooked and minimally processed to help preserve natural nutrients and enhance digestibility. This thoughtful preparation allows your dog to enjoy the benefits of real-food ingredients without unnecessary fillers or artificial additives.
Perfect for training, rewarding good behavior, or simply showing a little extra love, these fresh treats combine great taste with quality nutrition. Their meaty texture and rich flavor make them especially appealing to picky pups, while the all-natural formulation gives pet parents confidence in every reward they offer.
7. Dognation Chicken Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Ground Oats, Chicken Broth, Natural Flavors, Salt
These bite-sized fresh treats are made with nutrient-rich chicken and wholesome ingredients to provide a rewarding snack your dog will love. Crafted in the USA, they offer a delicious way to treat your canine companion while supporting overall health and well-being.
The ingredients are gently cooked and minimally processed to help preserve their natural nutritional value, flavor and digestibility. This careful preparation allows your dog to enjoy the benefits of real-food ingredients in every tasty bite.
Perfect for training sessions, positive reinforcement or everyday rewards, these soft and flavorful treats are designed to satisfy cravings without relying on artificial additives or unnecessary fillers. Their irresistible taste and convenient size make them a great choice for dogs of all ages, helping you reward your best friend with the quality nutrition they deserve.
What Is Freshpet Dog Food?
Fresh Pet specializes in refrigerated dog food made from fresh meat, vegetables, and fruits. Unlike traditional kibble, Fresh Pet recipes undergo gentler cooking processes and are stored in refrigerated packaging to maintain freshness.
The brand focuses on:
Fresh meat-based nutrition
Minimal processing
Real vegetables and fruits
No artificial preservatives
Convenient fresh-food feeding
Many pet parents consider it a middle ground between commercial kibble and expensive customized fresh-food delivery services.
Product Lines
Fresh Pet offers several product ranges, including:
Vital
Their flagship line featuring fresh recipes made with:
Chicken
Turkey
Beef
Salmon
Vegetables
Whole grains in selected formulas
Select
A more affordable fresh-food option commonly available in supermarkets.
Homestyle Creations
Recipes featuring recognizable ingredients and home-cooked style formulations.
Treats
Refrigerated treats and snacks made with limited ingredients.
Protein Source Analysis
One of the strongest aspects of Freshpet is its use of identifiable animal proteins.
Chicken
Chicken is the most common protein across the Fresh Pet lineup.
Benefits include:
Highly digestible protein
Rich in essential amino acids
Supports lean muscle maintenance
Generally well accepted by most dogs
Turkey
Turkey provides:
Lean protein content
Lower fat levels than some red meats
Excellent amino acid profile
Digestibility benefits
Turkey-based formulas are often popular among dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Salmon
Salmon contributes:
Omega-3 fatty acids
DHA and EPA
Skin and coat support
Anti-inflammatory benefits
This makes salmon recipes particularly appealing for dogs with dry skin or seasonal itching.
Beef
Beef recipes offer:
Iron
Zinc
B vitamins
Rich flavor many dogs love
Beef can be especially useful for active dogs requiring higher caloric density.
Lamb
Lamb serves as an alternative protein source and provides:
Highly palatable nutrition
Essential amino acids
Healthy fats
Variety for rotational feeding
The Advantage of Veterinary Nutritionist-Crafted Recipes
One area where Freshpet stands out is its commitment to nutritional formulation.
The company's recipes are developed with input from veterinary nutrition experts who focus on creating complete and balanced meals.
Benefits include:
Nutritionally complete formulations
Proper vitamin and mineral balance
Controlled calcium-to-phosphorus ratios
Life-stage appropriate nutrition
Consistency across batches
For pet owners, this means enjoying many benefits of fresh feeding without the complexity of creating homemade diets.
Ingredient Quality Review
Fresh Pet recipes generally feature:
Protein Sources
Chicken
Turkey
Beef
Salmon
Lamb
Fruits & Vegetables
Carrots
Spinach
Peas
Blueberries
Cranberries
Additional Nutrients
Vitamins
Minerals
Fish oils
Antioxidants
Compared to many conventional kibbles, ingredient lists tend to be shorter and easier to recognize.
Health Benefits
Based on thousands of customer reviews and long-term owner feedback, several improvements are frequently mentioned after switching to Freshpet.
Improved Digestive Health
Many owners report:
Firmer stools
Less gas
Better digestion
Reduced stomach sensitivity
Better Coat Condition
Common observations include:
Shinier coat
Softer fur
Reduced shedding
Improved skin hydration
Increased Appetite
Fresh food aromas and textures often encourage dogs that previously ignored kibble.
This is particularly beneficial for:
Senior dogs
Picky eaters
Dogs recovering from illness
Higher Energy Levels
Some owners note:
Improved activity levels
Greater enthusiasm during walks
Better overall vitality
Individual results vary, but these trends appear consistently across consumer reviews.
Fresh Pet vs Traditional Kibble
Feature
Fresh Pet
Traditional Kibble
Processing Level
Lower
Higher
Moisture Content
High
Low
Fresh Meat Content
Typically Higher
Varies
Palatability
Excellent
Moderate
Convenience
Moderate
Excellent
Shelf Life
Short
Long
My Take
Traditional premium kibble brands still offer complete nutrition and convenience.
However, Freshpet's fresh ingredients, higher moisture levels, and softer textures often provide advantages in:
Palatability
Hydration
Digestibility
Ingredient appeal
For many dogs, Freshpet simply feels closer to a fresh-food diet.
Is Freshpet a Better Diet Than Kibble?
For many dogs, this can be a healthier alternative due to its fresh ingredients, higher moisture content and lower level of processing.
Why Some Owners Prefer Fresh Food
Greater ingredient transparency
Better hydration
More appealing textures
Stronger aroma and flavor
Less processing
That said, high-quality kibble can still be an excellent option for many dogs.
The best choice ultimately depends on your dog's needs, your budget, and your lifestyle.
FAQs
Is Freshpet Dog Food Worth the Price?
Yes, for many pet owners.
Freshpet costs more than traditional kibble, but many customers report improvements in digestion, coat quality, appetite and overall well-being that justify the additional expense.
Always check individual product packaging for specific nutritional statements.
How Do You Transition a Picky Eater to Fresh Pet?
A gradual transition is recommended:
Days 1-2: 25% Fresh Pet, 75% current food
Days 3-4: 50% Fresh Pet, 50% current food
Days 5-6: 75% Fresh Pet, 25% current food
Day 7+: 100% Fresh Pet
For picky eaters, warming the food slightly can help release aromas and encourage acceptance.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating ingredients, nutritional quality, customer experiences, and overall value, I believe the brand earns its reputation as one of the leading fresh dog food brands available in stores today.
Its use of real meat proteins, veterinary nutritionist-developed recipes, and fresh-food approach makes it an attractive option for owners seeking an upgrade from traditional kibble.
While the price point won't fit every budget, the combination of quality ingredients, excellent palatability and reported health benefits makes it a strong contender in the fresh dog food category.
My Final Rating: 8.8/10
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A freelance writer and huge animal advocate, with 6 dogs and 3 cats. Graduated with a medical degree and is now spending time running a shelter and rescuing animals in need. Loves a good book, travel and spend time with family and pets.
