If you’re concerned about the ingredients in your dog’s food, you may have noticed that you have some attractive new options, some of which don’t even involve entering a grocery store. The world of dog food is getting fresher, and more competitive. Also, part of this revolution are pet-centric restaurants, and a sharp increase in dining establishments that allow dogs.
At many local pet stores, refrigerator displays have popped up, offering fresh dog food, purported to be a healthy option for your furry friend. Most of the fresh food comes in rolls, but plastic tubs of the product are also usually available.
Part of what’s fueled these companies is the rise of public demand for food that is fresh, and has real, easy-to-recognize ingredients. The same is true of the dog food market: the desire to include beloved family pets in the movement for fresh food has finally gained momentum.
Two things that distinguish fresh dog food from regular dog food are the shelf life, and the storage: fresh dog food usually requires refrigeration. Like all food, shelf-stable products do best in a cool, dry place. Because of the fresh nature of the fresh dog food, it is unusual for a serving to last for more than one week.
With this movement, many new brands have entered the market, some of them offering similar products. With all of the fresh dog food on the market, there is also a flood of recipes and online communities dedicated to making wholesome food for dogs. Many of the DIY recipes feature poultry, most often chicken, a starch, like sweet potato, and a whole grain, most often brown rice or barley.
Restaurants that allow dogs are growing in number. At establishments like these, there may be a menu that is specifically for dogs, and offer their own mixture of safe-to-eat and nutritious ingredients. While there don’t seem to be any dog-centric restaurants that also have a line of food, there is no reason to believe that there won’t be one soon.
Is this food actually better for your pet? There’s some debate about that. Anyone would assume that freshly prepared food is always the best option. Oddly enough, veterinarians are more likely to recommend Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Iams, Eukanuba, or even a Purina formula for your furry friend. Fresh dog food may also be more difficult to get, depending on where you are in the country, as every local pet store may not have the demand for the product.
Some of the more popular brands of fresh dog food are Nature Balance, Just Food for Dogs, Fresh Pet, Pet Plate, Truly Fresh, Nom Nom Now, and BILLY & MARGOT. Many companies selling fresh dog food are small, independently-owned and operated companies. Nature Balance is one of the larger brands with a product that caters to the needs of those who want a fresher option for their pet. Before switching to a new dog food, be sure to check with your vet to make sure that your dog doesn’t have any special needs. Change your dog’s food gradually, over the course of a week to two weeks. Introducing food slowly minimizes stomach upset. If you’re not sure what’s right for your dog, ask your vet.