Fresh dog food delivery services promise convenience and potential health benefits, but come at a higher price than traditional kibble.
Here’s what you can expect to pay, and how leading fresh dog food brands compare.
How Much Does Fresh Dog Food Delivery Cost on Average?
On average, fresh dog food delivery costs between $2 and $13 per day. How much you’ll pay depends on your dog’s size and calorie needs, as well as which brand and recipe you choose.
Fresh Dog Food Delivery Cost by Brand
Compare the cost of fresh dog food by brand:
- The Farmer’s Dog: $2–$11/day ($60–$330/month)
- Ollie: $3–$12/day ($90–$360/month)
- Open Farm: $5–$14/day ($150–$420/month)
- Nom Nom: $6–$13/day ($180–$390/month)
These prices are based on online quotes for healthy, three-year-old dogs between 20 and 80 pounds. You can get your own quote by visiting each brand’s website.
What Affects the Cost of Fresh Dog Food Delivery
A few main factors affect how much your fresh dog food delivery will cost:
- Food recipe: Organic or non-GMO ingredients, specialty meats and non-grain formulas can all raise the price of fresh dog food.
- Caloric needs: Factors like your dog’s size, activity level and weight affect your pet’s portion sizes and your overall cost.
- Subscription: The brand and subscription options you choose impact price, with some brands offering discounts when you enroll in recurring deliveries.
Is Fresh Dog Food Delivery Worth the Cost?
Fresh dog food can be a convenient way for pets to get the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals in their diets.
That said, it’s not the only healthy option for pet owners. World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines focus on choosing a dog food that offers a complete, balanced diet, rather than focusing on fresh vs. dry options.
Dr. Liza Cahn, veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, says that while some pet owners report improvements in their dogs’ skin or coat after switching to fresh food, more research is needed to support health claims. “For a healthy dog, the decision to pay a premium for fresh food often comes down to owner preference and budget,” she says.
Fresh Dog Food vs. Kibble: Cost Comparison
Fresh dog food is generally more expensive than dry kibble, though some premium kibble brands or prescription formulations can run higher:
- Store-brand or economy kibble: $0.50–$1.00/day
- Premium kibble: $1.50–$5/day
- Fresh dog food: $2–$13/day
How to Save Money on Fresh Dog Food Delivery
There are several ways to incorporate fresh food into your dog’s diet without breaking the bank:
- Buy in bulk: If you have multiple dogs (and the freezer space), purchasing food in bulk can provide more value by the pound.
- Supplement your pet’s diet: Consider mixing fresh food with kibble, rather than switching to a 100% fresh food diet.
- Cook fresh food at home: Try making food at home (under the guidance of a veterinarian) with ingredients like ground turkey, beef, brown rice and spinach.
- Take advantage of deals and discounts: Many brands offer discounts for first-time orders or enrolling in automatic shipments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Fresh Dog Food So Expensive?
Fresh dog food is usually more expensive than kibble because it is made with whole meats, grains and vegetables. It is also shipped frozen or refrigerated, which increases logistical costs.
Is Fresh Dog Food Cheaper Than Kibble?
No, fresh food is generally more expensive than kibble.
What Is the Cheapest Fresh Dog Food Delivery Service?
Ollie and The Farmer’s Dog tend to have lower-cost options compared to other fresh dog food delivery services.
How Much Does The Farmer’s Dog Cost?
Fresh food from The Farmer’s Dog usually costs between $2 and $11 per day.
Reporting by Faith Wakefield, USA TODAY / USA TODAY. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
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