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When it comes to dog food, if you wouldn’t eat it, why should your dog? That’s where The Farmer’s Dog comes in. The Farmer’s Dog’s founders, two dog dads, felt that many dog foods sold today are highly processed and low-quality. So, they set out to incorporate human-grade ingredients into recipes formulated specifically for dogs, creating a healthier option for pet parents.
Table of Contents
Visit The Farmer’s Dog Website
The Farmer’s Dog Review
Summary
The Farmer’s Dog does come with a steep price tag, but the premium food may be worth it to enhance the long-term health and well-being of your dog.
Our team determines the overall rating based on several factors, including meal and treat variety, nutritional value, customization options, pricing, customer service and reputation, and more.
Overall Score
Pros
- Choose from 4 healthy recipes (developed by board-certified ACVN veterinarian nutritionists): chicken, turkey, pork, or beef
- Human-grade ingredients with no preservatives or fillers
- Food delivered within days of cooking (flash-frozen to preserve nutrients)
- Personalized plans, with dog’s name and portion size printed on label (based on their nutritional and caloric needs)
- Auto-ship or adjust your shipping frequency and pause or cancel anytime
- Free shipping with the ability to ship more food at one time to reduce delivery frequency and environmental impact
- Sends other recipes free if your pup doesn’t like the food (or get a refund if you donate food to a shelter)
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Responsive customer service
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Since the food is so fresh, you need to keep it frozen and transfer a pack to the fridge the day before you use it so it can thaw
- Our quote was on the expensive side compared to some other fresh dog food delivery services (but we recommend running a quote for your unique pet’s needs)
Key Features
- Recipes developed by board-certified American College of Veterinary Nutrition experts
- Complete and balanced meals according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards
- Human-grade USDA ingredients are locally sourced
- Their dog profile takes 15+ different health issues into account (allergies, gluten or grain sensitivity, ear infections, digestive issues, etc.), with the option of adding any other health issues not listed
- Freshly made prepared foods that are flash-frozen to ensure food is as nutritious as possible
- Meal plans are all personalized to each dog’s unique qualities, goals, and lifestyle – you can adjust the flavors and quantity of packs in each shipment
- The company bundles and labels each order to include individual packages, your dog’s name, and the food’s manufacturing date
- Delivered to your door regularly
- No specific puppy formula, but all recipes are AAFCO-certified for all life stages. Beef has the highest protein, beneficial for growing pups, and is recommended for puppies.
- Company has invested over $10 million in veterinary research, funding clinical studies, grants, and residencies across multiple universities to advance scientific understanding of pet nutrition
The Farmer’s Dog (TFD) doesn’t currently offer any grain-inclusive options but claims to be looking into expanding their recipe selection in the future. While the FDA has not found a significant link between grain-free dog food and heart health, it’s wise to talk with your vet before switching your dog’s diet. If you and your vet are concerned about the risk for your pup’s heart health with his diet, you might also consider using TFD as a topper to grain-inclusive kibble or simply mixing in rice to TFD’s recipes.
Ingredients
Wondering what’s in The Farmer’s Dog and what the nutritional value of each recipe is? See below for the full list so you can see a breakdown.
| Recipe | Ingredient | Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beef | USDA Beef, Sweet Potato, Lentils, Carrot, USDA Beef Liver, Kale, Sunflower Seeds, Salmon Oil, TFD Nutrient Blend [tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, vitamin B12 supplement, taurine, zinc amino acid chelate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin E supplement, copper amino acid chelate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, potassium iodide, pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6), vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid] | 11% min | 8% min | 1.5% max | 72% max |
| Chicken | USDA Chicken, USDA Chicken Liver, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, Chia Seeds, Salmon Oil, TFD Nutrient Pack [tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, vitamin B12 supplement, taurine, zinc amino acid chelate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin E supplement, copper amino acid chelate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, potassium iodide, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid] | 11.5% min | 8.5% min | 1.5% max | 75% max |
| Turkey | USDA Turkey, Chickpeas, Carrot, Broccoli, Parsnip, Spinach, Salmon Oil, TFD Nutrient Blend [tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, vitamin B12 supplement, choline bitartrate, taurine, zinc amino acid chelate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin E supplement, copper amino acid chelate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, potassium iodide, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid] | 8% min | 4.5% min | 1.5% max | 76% max |
| Pork | USDA Pork, Sweet Potato, Potato, Green Beans, Cauliflower, USDA Pork Liver, Salmon Oil, TFD Nutrient Blend [tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, vitamin B12 supplement, taurine, zinc amino acid chelate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin E supplement, copper amino acid chelate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, potassium iodide, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid] | 9% min | 7% min | 1.5% max | 75% max |
Price
The Farmer’s Dog bases its pricing on your dog’s age, weight, and other factors. Smaller dogs start at $2/day. The following price* is based on a mixed-breed male, one-year-old, 38 pounds, healthy size, neutered, no health problems, or allergies. (Note: This is NOT the same dog used in the example below.) See our dedicated The Farmer’s Dog pricing page for more info.
- $51.74*/week
- Free shipping
- See all options
Pro Tip: Mix the food with rice to make it last longer and stretch your dollar.
Discounts (Coupon Codes)
Our readers have access to 50% off your first box. No code needed; just use this link and the discount will be applied!
Our Personal Experience With The Farmer’s Dog
We got the opportunity to test out The Farmer’s Dog on my dog in exchange for an honest review. Our pup already ate pretty healthily (cooked rice and chicken), so we were excited to give this a try.
First, you’ll fill out a quick form with basic info like your dog’s name and where you live.
Then, they ask about your dog’s size and activity level.
They’ll use this information to calculate the serving size and frequency of meal delivery. On the final page, you can select the flavors.
The cardboard box arrives sealed with dry ice and biodegradable insulation (that melts under hot water in the sink) to keep the food cold.
Inside are the frozen pouches of food, a reusable cardboard container, and feeding instructions according to your dog’s size and weight. We also received an insulated reusable bag for keeping frozen dog food cold while traveling.
They recommended starting by mixing the new fresh food with your dog’s current dog food to make a gradual digestive transition. Learn more about how to change your dog’s food safely.
Pro tip: Upon thawing out, gently squeeze out the entire bag into the container provided. Since it’s refrigerated, I sometimes zap it in the microwave for 10-20 seconds to bring it to room temperature. I also mix it with a bit of Jinx kibble so that there are grains in my dog’s diet (or you can use rice.)
The verdict? Our dog LOVES it! Gobbles it down fast and has had much more consistent bowel movements. Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has also lost and maintained a much healthier weight since switching (and their coat is noticeably more shiny and healthy). And since our trial, we’re now paying customers for more than two years!
Video: Unboxing And Eating The Farmer’s Dog
Watch this quick unboxing video to see some of our experiences. (Not pictured: the biodegradable insulation made of cornstarch dissolves under warm water in the sink.)
What Do People Think Of The Farmer’s Dog?
Positive Reviews
Our four legged furry kid of 13 1/2 years was getting super picky & stopped eating a lot of stuff. I ordered Farmer’s Dog food and she loved it! I would not hesitate to buy or recommend this food. The quality, the packaging, the communication & shipping was above exceptional! Unfortunately our puppers has now passed away. Farmer’s Dog even sent a hand written sympathy card. Amazing and exceptional company & people! Highly recommend!!
– Shelly W., Trustpilot 11/21/2022
Such a great dog food! My nearly 12 year old cocker spaniel has never looked better! She had two spine surgeries in the past two years and had put on a little weight from the bed rest (which was also not great for her recovery!). Since switching her to this food, shes lost her extra weight, her coat feels amazing and she is truly excited at every meal! This food has extended the quality and likely the quantity of her golden years. Thank you!
– Ruth B., BBB 7/8/2022
Negative Reviews
I am on my fifth delivery of melted food.I live I Arizona and have discussed extra dry ice each time food shows up melted.I am at my wits end.This will be the final batch if they can’t get it to me safe to feed my dog.For the price I am paying,a little more attention to detail would be nice. I am out of food…..again,and have no choice but to give my dog kibble.Get this corrected or lose me as a customer.
– Robert L., Trustpilot 7/29/2022
Good food. Sketchy businsss practices. The day the dogfood was delivered, I was Billed for the next delivery and told it couldnt be cancelled, and 7 more packs were coming, $100.It was the only charge that was put through on ****, not pending. they were trying to get the money not give the service. Messing with people, lying on an email and using their pets names manipulative manner. ** ***. Never again, youll pay. Business like this do not last.
– Gary G., BBB 8/26/2022
The Farmer’s Dog vs Other Companies
Interested in seeing how The Farmer’s Dog stacks up against other popular pet food companies? We’ve written comparison articles for you to see how TFD and other leading dog food companies compare.
- The Farmer’s Dog vs Badlands Ranch
- The Farmer’s Dog vs Dr. Marty
- The Farmer’s Dog vs FreshPet
- The Farmer’s Dog vs JustFoodForDogs
- The Farmer’s Dog vs Nom Nom
- The Farmer’s Dog vs Ollie
Is The Farmer’s Dog Food Worth The Price?
Visit The Farmer’s Dog Website
The Farmer’s Dog does come with a steep price tag, but the premium food may be worth it to enhance the long-term health and well-being of your dog. See why it is our choice for the best fresh dog food for weight loss, best fresh dog food delivery, best fresh dog food for sensitive stomachs, and best fresh dog food overall. Now, not everyone can afford gourmet meals all the time, but it is nice to splurge every once in a while.
The company also offers recipes and is currently developing nutrient packs to make healthy dog food at home. Learn more in our interview with The Farmer’s Dog founder, Brett Podolsky.
If you’re looking for an alternate fresh meal and dog food delivery options like The Farmer’s Dog, check out our full dog food delivery comparison. We also have some homemade dog food recipes that you can try if you’re up for making your own dog food.
Our Methodology
We analyze hundreds of dog food brands and individual formulas to provide our recommendations for the best nutrition. Each of the following elements helps us determine the best dog food for any dietary need. Our in-depth research includes:
- Scrutinizing all ingredients included in every formula
- Having firsthand experience with our dogs for many of the foods we recommend
- Assessing the guaranteed analysis for every formula, including protein, fat, fiber, and caloric content
- Investigating the latest scientific studies on dogs’ nutritional needs and benefits of ingredients
- Researching the specific dietary needs for breed sizes and health conditions
- Reading hundreds of customer reviews
- Staying informed on every dog food recall
- Diving into every pet food brand’s history and reputation
- Keeping on top of pet food trends
Unlike many other review sites, we give unbiased reviews based on countless hours of research. Our goal is to provide our readers with the healthiest options for their pups.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Sadie Cornelius has more than two decades of dog care and ownership experience, specializing in the care and companionship of her beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Sadie’s dog suffers from separation anxiety and situational anxiety, food alleriges and her dogs have had a number of pet illnesses and issues, including anal gland problems, kennel cough, poisoning, cancer, heart murmers, dental extractions, and more. She has tested dozens of dog foods over the years, including multiple fresh dog food brands, and believes in giving only the best ingredients for her dog based on his own unique dietary needs.
