Why dog food brands matter

The food your dog eats plays an important role in their overall health. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition can give your dog the best chance at a longer, healthier life, according to the American Verterinary Medical Association. These are the brands we trust to meet these standards and go the extra mile to create the best food for pets.

How we compare the best fresh dog food

At FindPetFood.com, we evaluate dog food brands based on the factors that matter most to pet owners. We find high-quality options that match a variety of dogs' needs. Here's what we look for:

Vet-approved recipes
We highlight brands that are approved by or developed with board-certified veterinary nutritionists to help ensure meals are both safe and nutritionally balanced.

Human grade / high-quality ingredients
We look for real, whole-food ingredients—like chicken, beef, or sweet potato—with no mystery meats or unnecessary fillers.

Fresh or dry meals
Whether it’s fresh food or dry kibble, we consider how the food is prepared and how well dogs respond to it. Some brands offer fridge or freezer fresh dog food, while others stick with convenient shelf-stable kibble.

Allergy-free customizations & recipe variety
Many brands allow adjustments for allergies, protein preferences, or sensitivities—making it easier to find a recipe that works for picky eaters or pets with dietary needs.

All ages food that can grow with them
We like brands that offer puppy food, adult food, and senior dog food, helping dogs grow and age without needing to switch foods every few years.

Best dog food brands reviews →

Potential benefits of fresh food for dogs

Fresh dog food may support a range of health benefits. Many dogs experience better digestion with meals made from simple, whole ingredients. Nutrient-rich recipes can contribute to a shinier coat and healthier skin. Dogs may also have more energy when eating well-balanced meals. Portion-controlled servings can help maintain a healthy weight, and over time, a nutritious diet may promote overall wellness and reduce the risk of health issues down the road.

Puppy vs. senior dog food

Fresh dog food brands typically portion meals based on your pet’s age, weight, and calorie needs to help support overall health. The best puppy food (for small breeds and large dogs alike) often includes high-quality animal proteins and higher-calorie meals designed to fuel early growth. The best dog food for senior dogs tends to focus on supporting joint health, digestion, and weight management.

Whether feeding a puppy, adult, or senior pet, choosing food that's thoughtfully portioned and nutritionally balanced can support well-being at any age, provided your dog isn’t managing a medical condition and a vet has approved the transition.

Fresh dog food delivery vs. dry pet food

What to look for in the best fresh dog food

1. Find high-quality dog food brands
Start by reviewing product labels and ingredient lists. Terms like "human-grade," "premium meat," or "high protein" can signal better-quality ingredients and strong nutritional value. Look for phrases such as "no fillers, artificial flavors, or added colors" to avoid unnecessary additives. "Complete and balanced nutrition" means the food meets basic dietary needs, while labels like "vet-designed" or "formulated by pet nutritionists" suggest expert input was used in creating the recipe.

2. Choose a diet designed for your pet
Decide whether dry, fresh, or raw food works best. Dry food is convenient, fresh is often customized, and raw mimics a natural diet. Most dry food labels include feeding guides, while fresh and raw brands often personalize portions to meet your dog’s calorie and health requirements.

3. Pick a plan that fits their lifestyle, and yours
Finally, pick a plan that fits both your pet’s lifestyle and your own. Subscription-based fresh dog food delivery plans are typically delivered frozen in pre-portioned bags and thawed in the fridge. Dry kibble is often a cheaper option with no need for fridge or freezer space. Some owners prefer to mix both fresh and dry food. It's a great way to introduce fresh to be sure it agrees with your dog before committing to a full plan.