Discover why transitioning to fresh dog food can be a game-changer for your pup’s health. Dr. Sarah Cortright breaks down five essential, vet-approved facts about fresh food, highlighting how it impacts digestion, coat health, energy, and overall well-being.
Whether you’re still on the fence or seeking validation for your pet nutrition choices, this post walks you through evidence-based insights you’ll want to know.
Why What You Feed Your Dog Matters
Optimizing your dog’s diet is one of the most impactful things you can do for their quality of life. Fresh food offers tangible benefits that go beyond what standard kibble can provide. Learning these facts empowers you with knowledge to support your pup in a way that’s both compassionate and scientifically backed.
Fact 1: Not Just a Trend: Fresh Food Supports Digestive Health
Fresh, minimally processed foods are easier on the digestive system. Many dog owners report fewer gastrointestinal issues after switching to vet-formulated fresh diets. Research suggests that feeding fresh dog food results in improved nutrient absorption and gut comfort.
Fact 2: Balanced and Complete: Rich in Real Ingredients, No Fillers
Many fresh foods not just meet but exceed AAFCO standards. And unlike many processed options, fresh pet food typically contains whole-food ingredients, free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. This clean profile contributes to cleaner digestion and supports better health outcomes.
Fact 3: Shiny Coats & Elevated Energy Levels
Vet-approved fresh diets may improve coat quality, making fur softer and glossier, while also boosting pup energy levels. Many owners notice their pets seem more vibrant soon after switching diets.
Fact 4: A Little Bit Goes a Long Way
Pet parents don’t have to commit to all fresh all the time. Incorporating even just a little bit of fresh food into your dog’s daily meals can make a significant difference.
Fact 5: Easily Fits into Daily Life
JustFoodForDogs fresh meals are designed to be simple to serve—no special prep required—while delivering full nutritional advantages. As Dr. Cortright shares, they “fit right into our lifestyle: fresh, easy to serve, and packed with nutrition they actually get excited about.”
Benefits at a Glance
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Better digestion | Superior nutrient absorption |
| Cleaner ingredients | No highly processed fillers or preservatives |
| Enhanced coat & vitality | Shinier fur, more active dog |
| Vet-formulated balance | Nutrient-complete and science-backed |
| Quick & convenient | Frozen or Pantry: There’s an option for every lifestyle |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Fresh diets often offer higher-quality nutrients and digestibility. However, convenience, cost, and your dog’s specific health needs are also important considerations.
Vet-formulated fresh food is typically nutritionally balanced, so additional supplements are usually unnecessary unless recommended by a vet for special health conditions.
Because there are no artificial preservatives, fresh food can have a shorter shelf life compared to dry food. Always make sure to store and serve it properly to avoid spoilage.
Sources
Oba, Patrícia M, Pamela L Utterback, Carl M Parsons, and Kelly S Swanson. 2019. “True Nutrient and Amino Acid Digestibility of Dog Foods Made with Human-Grade Ingredients Using the Precision-Fed Cecectomized Rooster Assay1.” Translational Animal Science 4 (1): 442–51. https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txz175.
