The Farmer’s Dog Pros and Cons: Is Fresh Dog Food Worth It?

The Farmer’s Dog pros and cons overview featuring packaged fresh meals

Are you thinking about switching to fresh dog food but unsure about reviews of the farmers dog? The Farmer’s Dog has gained popularity as a leading delivery service in the USA, offering human-grade ingredients in personalized meal plans crafted by board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Delivered straight to your door, it promises a healthier alternative to kibble, canned, or wet foods—though at a higher cost.

In this honest review, we’ll break down the key The Farmer’s Dog pros and cons based on real-world testing with Alaskan Klee Kai dogs. Drawing from personal experience feeding our pets Copper and Skye since 2019 (starting with a UK fresh food service and transitioning to US options in 2023), we aim to help you decide if it’s right for your furry friend.

The Farmer’s Dog pros and cons overview featuring packaged fresh mealsThe Farmer’s Dog pros and cons overview featuring packaged fresh meals

The Farmer’s Dog Pros

Real, Human-Grade Ingredients

One standout feature is the use of USDA-approved meats, vegetables like green beans, sweet potatoes, and a proprietary nutrient blend for balanced nutrition. Unlike traditional kibble, there’s no artificial additives, by-products, preservatives, or meat meals—just recognizable, real food you’d consider eating yourself.

This transparency gave us confidence feeding it to Copper and Skye. According to veterinary guidelines from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), such formulations meet complete nutritional profiles when properly balanced, supporting long-term health.

Fresh Farmer’s Dog meal with visible human-grade ingredients like meat and veggiesFresh Farmer’s Dog meal with visible human-grade ingredients like meat and veggies

Gently Cooked for Nutrient Retention

The meals are gently cooked at low temperatures, preserving natural flavors, aromas, and nutrients that high-heat processing in kibble often destroys. This was a game-changer for picky eater Skye, who showed immediate interest and consistent appetite without digestive upset.

Veterinary nutritionists emphasize that minimal processing helps maintain bioavailability of vitamins and proteins, making it easier for dogs to absorb essential nutrients.

Close-up of gently cooked Farmer’s Dog food pouch showing fresh textureClose-up of gently cooked Farmer’s Dog food pouch showing fresh texture

Clear, Transparent Labeling

Forget vague ingredient lists on store-bought bags. The Farmer’s Dog lists everything plainly—beef, chicken, pork, carrots, fish oil, Brussels sprouts, and more. Your first box includes detailed info on formulations, easing concerns for owners monitoring allergies or sensitivities.

This aligns with recommendations from pet nutrition experts for informed feeding choices.

Farmer’s Dog packaging with transparent ingredient labelsFarmer’s Dog packaging with transparent ingredient labels

Easy Sign-Up and Personalization

The questionnaire is straightforward: enter breed, weight, age, activity level, and health goals (like weight loss or gain). It generates tailored plans quickly, no tech skills needed. For Copper (needing to slim down) and Skye (building muscle), it nailed the specifics.

Screenshot of Skye’s personalized Farmer’s Dog meal planScreenshot of Skye’s personalized Farmer’s Dog meal plan

Pre-Portioned for Precision Feeding

Each pouch is labeled with exact portions, simplifying control—crucial for multi-dog homes or specific needs. We appreciated not guessing amounts, reducing waste and overfeeding risks.

Check out more reviews on farmer’s dog food for similar user experiences.

Pre-portioned Farmer’s Dog meal pouches ready for feedingPre-portioned Farmer’s Dog meal pouches ready for feeding

Competitive Pricing Among Fresh Options

At around $193/month for our two small dogs, it’s pricier than kibble but cheaper than rivals like Nom Nom ($75 more monthly) or Ollie ($65 more). Annual savings add up, especially with first-order discounts.

Copper and Skye’s customized Farmer’s Dog pricing plan screenshotCopper and Skye’s customized Farmer’s Dog pricing plan screenshot

Dog-Approved Taste and Tolerance

Both dogs loved the beef, chicken, and pork recipes—Skye finished bowls eagerly with no tummy issues. Turkey was less favored (common with some dogs), but overall palatability was high. Shiny coats and steady energy were bonuses.

Alaskan Klee Kai dogs enjoying Farmer’s Dog mealsAlaskan Klee Kai dogs enjoying Farmer’s Dog meals

Bonus Cooler Bag for Travel

A free insulated bag keeps thawed portions cold, ideal for trips while maintaining fresh nutrition.

Farmer’s Dog cooler bag for portable fresh food storageFarmer’s Dog cooler bag for portable fresh food storage

The Farmer’s Dog Cons

Higher Cost Than Traditional Foods

Expect a premium—more than grocery kibble, though value-packed. Budget-conscious owners might hesitate.

Farmer’s Dog pricing details highlighting premium costFarmer’s Dog pricing details highlighting premium cost

Limited Recipe Variety

Only four options (beef, chicken, pork, turkey) versus 10+ from some competitors. More proteins would help picky or allergic dogs.

For deeper insights, see reviews on the farmer’s dog food.

Farmer’s Dog recipe selection showing four limited optionsFarmer’s Dog recipe selection showing four limited options

No Included Scooper or Containers

Portion guides work, but a scooper or storage dish would enhance convenience and reduce mess.

Farmer’s Dog pouches without custom scooper toolFarmer’s Dog pouches without custom scooper tool

Freezer Space Demands

Boxes arrive frozen with dry ice; thaw as needed but plan for storage. Multi-dog families need ample freezer room.

Farmer’s Dog frozen shipment requiring freezer storageFarmer’s Dog frozen shipment requiring freezer storage

Explore additional reviews of the farmer’s dog food for storage tips.

Our Verdict on The Farmer’s Dog

Balanced overview of Farmer’s Dog fresh meals in delivery boxBalanced overview of Farmer’s Dog fresh meals in delivery box

The pros—like real ingredients, personalization, and appeal—outweigh cons for fresh food seekers. We succeeded short-term with Copper and Skye but later mixed in air-dried and raw for variety. It’s top-value fresh option per veterinary-backed recipes.

Dogs with empty Farmer’s Dog bowls post-mealDogs with empty Farmer’s Dog bowls post-meal

Final Thoughts

The Farmer’s Dog excels in quality fresh nutrition but suits those prioritizing health over budget or space. Consult your vet for fit, as every dog varies. Ready to try? Dive into farmers fresh dog food reviews and start with a trial.

Closing shot of satisfied dogs after Farmer’s Dog feedingClosing shot of satisfied dogs after Farmer’s Dog feeding

References

  • The Farmer’s Dog official nutrition guidelines (veterinary-formulated per AAFCO standards)
  • Personal testing with Alaskan Klee Kai (2019–2023 experience)

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