Is The Farmer’s Dog Food Really Worth It?
If you're a pet owner who values high-quality nutrition and convenience for your furry friend, you've likely come across The Farmer's Dog. This subscription-based fresh dog food service has become increasingly popular, thanks to its commitment to custom-tailored, nutritious meals using real, human-grade ingredients.
What Makes The Farmer’s Dog Stand Out?
The Farmer’s Dog differentiates itself from other pet food brands in several essential ways:
- Veterinary-formulated meals tailored to your dog’s age, breed, activity level, and health needs
- Human-grade, preservative-free ingredients
- Customized, pre-portioned packs delivered directly to your door
- Eco-conscious packaging that is recyclable or compostable
These features make The Farmer’s Dog appealing for those who want optimal nutrition without the complex guesswork.
What’s in The Food?
Meals are gently cooked at low temperatures to retain nutritional value while ensuring safety. Each recipe includes:
- Proteins: turkey, beef, chicken, or pork
- A nutrient blend including taurine, zinc amino acid chelate, copper amino acid chelate, and vitamins such as D3, E, B12, and folic acid
- Fish oil for skin and coat health
- No fillers, preservatives, or artificial additives
Plus, meals are egg-free—ideal for dogs with common food sensitivities.
Pricing: Expensive, But Justified?
Cost is the most apparent drawback. Daily feeding ranges between
$2.49 and $11.30, and for giant breeds, it may climb to
$21.42 per day. On a monthly scale, expenses can hit
$675, though the average dog will cost less.
For comparison:
- Dry kibble like Orijen or Ketona: $1.26–$2.60/day for a 50 lb dog
- The Farmer’s Dog: $7.25–$8.00/day for the same dog
For larger breeds (e.g., 160-pound Saint Bernard), expect $16–$18 per day.
You can reduce the cost by:
- Using it as a food topper
- Partially substituting traditional kibble
Transition and Customization
Switching foods can be challenging, but The Farmer’s Dog provides detailed guidance for a smooth transition. You can adjust:
- Meal frequency
- Protein preferences
- Portion sizes
There’s even a
DIY Nutrient Mix option for those who prefer to cook their dog’s meals at home.
Health Benefits for Dogs
Customer reviews consistently highlight improvements such as:
- Higher energy levels
- Healthier skin and shiny coat
- Improved digestion and firmer stools
- Weight management through accurate portioning
Additionally, all recipes
meet or exceed AAFCO standards and are validated by feeding trials.
Convenience and Service
Aside from nutrition, the convenience is a major selling point. Meals are clearly labeled, pre-portioned, and easy to store. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S., and customer service is accessible via email and phone.
However, some minor drawbacks include:
- High reliance on freezer space
- Single-use, non-resealable meal packs
- Not cost-effective for multi-dog or large-breed households
Is It Really Worth It?
The answer depends on what you value most:
- If you're focused on top-notch nutrition, convenience, and ingredient transparency, yes, it's worth the investment.
- If you're budget-conscious, especially with a large breed, consider using it as a meal topper or supplement.
For example:
- A 65-pound dog may cost around $70/week
- A 200-pound dog could run you $150/week
Final Thoughts
The Farmer’s Dog is a premium option that delivers on quality, dog health benefits, and ease-of-use. While it’s not the most budget-friendly, many pet parents find the health improvements and peace of mind are worth the extra cost.
Whether you subscribe fully or use it in moderation, The Farmer’s Dog offers a valuable, thoughtful choice in canine nutrition.
