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Fresh dog food has been everywhere lately, and I totally get the hype. When you open up a package of something like JustFoodForDogs, it actually looks like real food—because it is real food. You can see the chunks of meat and the bright veggies, and it even smells like something I’d cook in my own kitchen. Compared to the mystery brown pellets of kibble, it’s a total game-changer.
So, I decided to put it to the ultimate test: my 16-year-old Siberian Husky, Splash. She’s not just a little picky—she’s got a whole pre-dinner ritual that tells me exactly how she feels about her food. If she’s into it, she does an enthusiastic, slightly dramatic dinner dance, complete with tail wags and excited little hops. But if she’s unimpressed? That bowl will sit there untouched for hours while she patiently waits to see if I’ll cave and bring her something better.
With JustFoodForDogs on the menu, I was curious to see which way she’d go—excited husky happy dance or “meh, I’ll wait.” Let’s just say her reaction made it pretty clear.
How My Picky Eater Reacted to JustFoodForDogs
The first JustFoodForDogs variety I gave her was the Chicken & White Rice option. Immediately after opening the package, I was struck by the pleasing smell. Unlike the smell of kibble, which comes across as a fatty, grainy sort of smell, JustFoodForDogs smelled like something that could have come from my own kitchen.
Splash’s reaction was clear before I even set down the bowl. The pre-dinner dance was on! After placing her dish in front of her, she happily devoured it, thanking me with a tail wag.
The next night, I gave her the Turkey & Whole Wheat Macaroni variety. It has a nice texture with real noodles, unlike anything I’ve ever seen in dog food. It looked like a homemade soup without the broth! She was equally pleased with the taste of this one.
JustFoodForDogs not only passed her picky taste test, but after researching the brand more, I was impressed to learn that it was also the most veterinarian-recommended fresh food brand for dogs. This makes it stand out in a sea of other fresh food companies receiving fewer veterinarian accolades.
Conclusion: Our Honest JustFoodForDogs Review
Overall, Splash and I were extremely pleased with JustFoodForDogs. While I can’t feed this food every day, I do rotate it into her diet as much as possible. She loves the ever-changing variety, and I love that it’s more nutritionally sound than kibble.
If you’re interested in trying JustFoodForDogs for your pup, click below.
Frequently Asked Questions About JustFoodForDogs
1. Is JustFoodForDogs Better Than Kibble?
According to many veterinarians and pet parents, yes. The amount of processing that goes into the creation of extruded kibble tends to degrade the quality of the ingredients. Healthy fats such as omega-3 (fish oil) tend to go rancid inside of dry food such as kibble. One look at fresh food such as JustFoodForDogs, and you can see and smell the difference.
2. Is JustFoodForDogs Recommended by Veterinarians?
Yes. According to the company, JustFoodForDogs is the number one recommended veterinary fresh food, according to an independent national survey of over 15,000 vets. The company offers a veterinarian education portal, helping vets pair each of their foods with a particular dog’s needs.
3. How Do I Store My JustFoodForDogs Meals? Can they be frozen?
According to the company, the best way to feed fresh is to cycle from freezer to refrigerator to bowl. Remove the package from the freezer and defrost it in your refrigerator, or you can also immerse it in cold water. Store the product in your refrigerator in a glass or plastic container and then serve the suggested amount. JustFoodForDogs can last up to one year after being frozen.
4. Does JustFoodForDogs Meet AAFCO guidelines & standards?
According to the company, yes. Each of the canine diets has been studied through evidence-based research at major universities. In addition, the company performed a year-long feeding trial.
5. Has JustFoodForDogs Ever Been Recalled?
According to Dog Food Advisor, the company had one voluntary recall in January 2018 due to contamination of human-grade green beans. The company reacted swiftly to the issue.
6. Who Founded JustFoodForDogs, and What is the Company’s History?
Shawn Buckley founded JustFoodForDogs after being shocked & disgusted when he found out what is legally allowed to be included in dog food. He began making his own fresh meals for his dogs and noticed an immediate difference in their overall health. Shawn later brought in a highly educated team of board-certified veterinarians and specialists to create the most nutritionally complete canine meals available. JustFoodForDogs is unprocessed and more bioavailable to your dog’s body, meaning your pup will actually absorb what they ingest. The products are created with no chicken byproduct and no preservatives.
Is Fresh Dog Food Right for Your Pup? FAQs to Help You Decide!
Thinking about switching your dog to fresh food but not sure if it’s the right choice? Here are some common questions pet parents ask when considering a fresh, wholesome diet for their furry friend.
1. What is fresh dog food, and how is it different from kibble?
Fresh dog food is made with real, whole ingredients like meat, vegetables, and healthy fats. Unlike kibble, which is heavily processed and often contains fillers and preservatives, fresh dog food is gently cooked to retain nutrients, making it a healthier and more natural option for your pup.
2. Is fresh dog food better for my dog’s health?
Yes! Fresh dog food can improve digestion, give dogs a shinier coat, boost energy levels, and even reduce allergies. Because it’s made with high-quality ingredients and without artificial additives, it’s easier for dogs to digest and absorb the nutrients they need to thrive.
3. Will fresh dog food help with my dog’s allergies?
Many dogs with food sensitivities or allergies benefit from fresh food because it eliminates common allergens like artificial preservatives, fillers, and low-quality proteins. If your dog has skin issues, itching, or frequent upset stomachs, switching to fresh food could make a noticeable difference.
Does Your Dog Have Allergies? Check Out Our Top Dog Food Picks!
4. How long does fresh dog food last?
Since fresh dog food doesn’t contain artificial preservatives, it needs to be stored properly. Most fresh meals stay good in the fridge for about 4–5 days, while frozen portions can last several months. Always check the packaging for specific storage recommendations.
5. Is fresh dog food more expensive than kibble?
Fresh dog food is typically more expensive than kibble, but for a good reason—it contains higher-quality, whole-food ingredients without cheap fillers. Many pet parents find that the benefits, such as fewer vet visits and better overall health, make the investment worthwhile.
6. Can I switch my dog to fresh food right away?
It’s best to transition gradually over 7–10 days by mixing fresh food with your dog’s current diet and increasing the fresh portion slowly. This helps prevent digestive upset and allows your pup’s stomach to adjust to the new, nutrient-rich diet.