Understanding The Farmer’s Dog: Fresh Pet Food Explained
The Farmer’s Dog is a fresh dog food company that has gained popularity among pet owners seeking healthier, more personalized meal plans for their dogs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of The Farmer’s Dog, examining its nutritional value, formulation standards, delivery service, and customer reviews.
What Is The Farmer’s Dog?
The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription-based service offering
human-grade, gently cooked dog food designed with the help of board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Unlike many traditional kibbles, their food avoids meat meals and artificial preservatives and is instead made from whole ingredients including beef, chicken, turkey, and pork.
Key Features of The Farmer’s Dog
- Freshly prepared and frozen for delivery
- Formulated to AAFCO and WSAVA standards
- Protein-dense, with about 30% crude protein (dry matter basis)
- Custom-portioned based on age, breed, weight, and activity level
- No artificial ingredients or meat meals
Nutritional Profile
Each recipe includes a mix of high-quality protein, vegetables, and salmon oil (for omega-3 fatty acids). The meals are
gently cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure safety while preserving nutrients, and contain:
- ~30% crude protein
- ~16% crude fat
- 28–38% digestible carbohydrates
The food mimics home-cooked meals while ensuring balance with added nutrient blends. This makes it suitable for
both puppies and adult dogs.
Customization and Delivery
To get started, customers complete a detailed questionnaire about their dog. Based on the responses, The Farmer’s Dog suggests appropriate meal plans and calorie needs. Subscription includes:
- Meal packets labeled with portion guides
- Recurring shipments, with ability to pause or adjust
- Insulated tote and a storage container in the first order
Meals are designed for convenient storage and thawing, ensuring ease of use for dog owners.
Veterinary Perspectives and Studies
The company has participated in extensive feeding trials, including yearlong studies with
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary feedback varies:
- Pros: improved coat quality, appetite, digestion, and reduced inflammation
- Cons: some dogs experienced weight changes or digestive disturbances
Some vets recommend the product, while others urge caution regarding fat and protein levels for dogs with certain conditions.
Cost Considerations
Pricing sets The Farmer’s Dog apart from traditional options. For a 50-pound dog, a two-week supply ranges from $110 to $122. While this is
less expensive than some other premium fresh brands, it is significantly more than conventional kibble.
Customer Experience and Satisfaction
Many users praise the service’s ease, quality, and positive health outcomes in their pets. Benefits include:
- Easy-to-serve format with portion guides
- Tailored nutrition for different dogs in one household
- Simplified meal planning and peace of mind
However, some users note that detailed ingredient breakdowns are not easily accessible without signing up.
How It Compares
When stacked against other fresh pet food brands, The Farmer’s Dog offers:
- High customization
- Greater affordability among fresh brands
- Excellent packaging and clarity
Still, it has
fewer recipe options and may not meet the unique dietary needs of every dog, such as those requiring low protein or fat diets.
Final Thoughts
The Farmer’s Dog is a top contender in the fresh dog food market, particularly for those who value convenience, transparency, and whole-food nutrition. While not the most budget-friendly option, it ranks highly in terms of
quality, digestibility, and customer service. Pet owners should assess their dog’s unique needs, consult a veterinarian, and weigh the cost-to-benefit ratio when considering this option.
