Is Farmer s dog human grade

The Farmers Dog Review

Written by Kasey Caminiti

, managing editor, deal hunter, and eyeliner aficionado.

Updated February 27, 2024

1. The Farmer's Dog

   Pros

   • Healthy

   • Affordable

   • Pre-portioned

   Cons

   • Not resealable

   • Need to thaw

I will happily admit that I am totally obsessed with my two dogs. There are several dog beds placed in different rooms of my home so my pups always have a cute spot to relax. I have dog toys, water fountains, treats, harnesses, life jackets (yes, I own a life jacket for my dog), and so much more dog paraphernalia in my home. But where I draw the line regarding spoiling my pups is dog food. I respect people who cook chicken, rice, and veggies for their dog every night, but Im not that person. Yes, I want my dogs to eat healthy food, but I am not trying to be too inconvenienced. You might remember The Farmer's Dog from the viral 2023 Super Bowl commercial that pulled on everyone's heartstrings. So, my dogs Rufio and Ace put The Farmers Dog to the test to see just how paw-some it is.

What is The Farmers Dog?

The Farmers Dog is a fresh dog food brand that offers vet-developed meal plansthat are formulated with human-grade ingredients. Founded in 2015 by two dog lovers who wanted to bring healthy and convenient dog food to the market, The Farmers Dog prides itself on making sure that their dog food is nutritious, affordable, and accessible, all while maintaining high safety standards for delivery.

The Farmers Dog

New customers can save 50% on their first order of Reviewed-approved fresh dog food from The Farmers Dog.

Save 50% on your first order

How I tested The Farmer's Dog

I received 14 days of dog food for each of my dogs. I was very cautious about transitioning them from dry dog food to The Farmers Dog so I spent a little more than the recommended one week of transitioning. I started with about 75% dry dog food and 25% The Farmers Dog and increased it until they were eating 100% The Farmers Dog. The meal plans for both dogs included the beef recipe, pork recipe, and turkey recipe. The feeding suggestion was half a package per day for each dog.

What I liked about The Farmers Dog

My six-year-old Boston Terrier is like a garbage can in that he will eat anything, even if it doesnt agree with him. His bowel movements can be grossly impacted if he eats something weird. Needless to say, I dont love having to deal with that. After only a few days of eating The Farmers Dog, I noticed that Rufios backyard business was very (consider this your TMI warning) regular, solid, and clean. It was fantastic. Both dogs obviously enjoyed their meals each day and I noticed that they seemed fuller after eating, in a good way. In particular, Rufios mooching was less intense.

I definitely noticed more of a change in Rufio, maybe because hes older and a little more sensitive to food. Ace still has puppy energy and has (thankfully) been trained to not beg for table scraps, so I didn't notice a huge change in his behavior, but he seemed more excited about meal time than before.

What I didnt like about The Farmers Dog

The slim, compact packaging was great for freezer storage, but it was difficult to squeeze out when feeding. I tried to use a utensil to scrape the last bits out of each package and always felt like I was wasting some or that it was too much effort and gave up. The packaging is not resealable. You are provided a takeaway container to store your open packet in the fridge but I wouldve preferred being able to seal it shut, especially during the transitional first week when I was using one packet over a few days.

How does The Farmers Dog work?

To get started with The Farmers Dog, youll take a short quiz about how many dogs you have, breed, age, weight, dietary restrictions, activity levels, and diet history. After you complete the quiz, The Farmers Dog will determine the appropriate meal plan withrecommended recipesand weekly pricing. Your pups meals will be formulated with USDA human-grade fresh ingredients and packaged into pre-portioned packs so all you have to do is open and pour. The refrigerated deliveries are flexible based on your schedule and feature eco-friendly packaging. You'll want to store your packs in the freezer and thaw a new pack 12 hours before you're ready to use it. Each pack stays fridge-safe for up to four days after thawed.

How much does The Farmers Dog cost?

Meal plans start at about $2 to $12 per day and delivery options range from one week to three months of food and include free shipping. Right now, The Farmers Dog is offering a 50% discount to first-time customers on their first box of dog food. Two weeks worth of The Farmer's Dog meals for Rufio and Ace would have been $119.30, but with the 50% discount on my first box, my total came to $63.56. That breaks down to $31.78 for each dog for two weeks and $2.27 per day. For reference, a 40-pound bag of dry dog food would cost us $60 and last a little less than one month, equating to $2.30 per day for each of our two dogs.

What ingredients are in The Farmers Dog dog food?

The Farmers Dog outlines every recipe on their website and in a product card sent with your dog food delivery. The recipes vary and can include the following ingredients:

• Meats: Whole beef, turkey, pork, chicken, and a beef and chicken liver combination
• Fresh vegetables: Carrots, green beans, brussels sprouts, and broccoli
• Fiber-rich foods: Chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and lentils

Where can I buy The Farmers Dog dog food?

Right now, you can only shop The Farmers Dog on the brands website to guarantee your personalized meal plans are delivered in refrigerated and environmentally-friendly boxes.

Is The Farmers Dog worth it?

Yes! I think The Farmers Dog is worth it. Both my dogs loved it and it seemed to improve their digestion. I have plenty of freezer space, so storing the food wasnt an issue, but I could see how storing several packages of dog food might not be ideal for everyone. The cost was comparable to our usual dry dog food, so as long as you have the space, I would highly recommend The Farmer's Dog!

The Farmers Dog

New customers can save 50% on their first order of Reviewed-approved fresh dog food from The Farmers Dog.

Save 50% on your first order

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

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The Farmers Dog Review: Farm To Bowl Dog Food

When it comes to dog food, if you wouldnt eat it, why should your dog? Thats where The Farmers Dog comes in. The Farmers Dogs 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.

The recipes are pre-portioned to your dogs weight, breed, and activity level and are delivered directly to your door. Ingredients are sourced from small farms, so you can trust its real food. Plus, you can take comfort in knowing that a certified nutritionist created a balanced and nutritious meal for your pup (without having to do all the cooking and research yourself).

Visit The Farmers Dog Website

The Farmer's Dog Review

Product Name: The Farmer's Dog

Product Description: The Farmer's Dog is human-grade dog food made with fresh ingredients.

Summary

The Farmers 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.

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)
• You can personalize plans, and meals are pre-portioned to meet your unique 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 doesnt 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 pets 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 dogs 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 dogs name, and the foods 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.

The Farmers Dog (TFD) doesnt 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 significantlink between grain-free dog food and heart health, its wise to talk with your vet before switching your dogs diet. If you and your vet are concerned about the risk for your pups heart health with his diet, you might also consider using TFD as a topper to grain-inclusive kibble or simply mixing in rice to TFDs recipes.

Ingredients

Wondering whats in The Farmers 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 Farmers Dog bases its pricing on your dogs age, weight, and other factors. Smaller dogs start at $2/day. Thefollowing 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 Farmers Dog pricing page for more info.

Pro Tip: Mix the food with rice to make it last longer and stretch your dollar.

Discounts (Coupon Codes)

Our readers have access to50% off your first box.No code needed;just usethis linkand the discount will be applied!

Our Personal Experience With The Farmers Dog

We got the opportunity to test out The Farmers 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, youll fill out a quick form with basic info like your dogs name and where you live.

Then, they ask about your dogs size and activity level.

Theyll 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 dogs 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 dogs current dog food to make a gradual digestive transition. Learn more about how to change your dogs food safely.

Pro tip: Upon thawing out, gently squeeze out the entire bag into the container provided. Since its 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 dogs 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, were now paying customers for more than two years!

Video: Unboxing And Eating The Farmers 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 Farmers 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 Farmers 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. Farmers 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 cant 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 Farmers Dog vs Other Companies

Interested in seeing how The Farmers Dog stacks up against other popular pet food companies? Weve written comparison articles for you to see how TFD and other leading dog food companies compare.

Is The Farmers Dog Food Worth The Price?

Visit The Farmers Dog Website

The Farmers 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 thebest 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 Farmers Dog founder, Brett Podolsky.

If youre looking for an alternate fresh meal and dog food delivery options like The Farmers Dog, check out our full dog food delivery comparison. We also have some homemade dog food recipesthat you can try if youre 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 brands 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. Sadies 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.

Tagged With: Food Delivery, Reviewed By Dr. Racine, DVM