#dogfoodtips

I used to be unsure about whether greens belonged in my dog’s daily diet or if it was just hype. But after researching and slowly introducing them, I saw that some vegetables can actually be beneficial in the right amounts. My dog responded well to options like green beans and spinach, and it felt like a positive step toward better nutrition. It also helped me understand how important it is to pair good feeding habits with regular activity.

From my experience, dog stomach issues are often caused by simple things like eating inappropriate items, sudden diet changes, food intolerance, or stress. Mild symptoms usually include a bit of vomiting or diarrhea and a temporary lack of appetite, but my dog still stays active and alert. When that happens, I stick to basic care resting their stomach, feeding bland food, and keeping them hydrated which usually does the trick. I’ve also found that using something like the Halo Collar helps limit where my dog can wander, lowering the chances of them getting into something they shouldn’t, especially when unsupervised.

Frenchies are sooo cute but gosh… they sometimes come with their own set of issues. Allergies, sensitive skin, stomach problems, you name it. So food actually matters a lot more with them than people expect.

Before, I wasn’t totally confident that I was feeding my dog the right amount, but learning how to interpret dog food labels changed that. Providing healthy food gives my pup the energy it needs to stay focused during training and respond consistently to the Halo Collar. I now pay attention to weight-based guidelines, activity level, and calories, which helped me realize that portions should be customized.

I remember looking up whether strawberries were good or bad for dogs, and it was a relief to find out they can be a safe treat if served properly. Strawberries have nutrients like vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that can be good for dogs. I always make sure they’re washed and cut into bite-sized pieces before giving them to my dog.

Before giving my dog shrimp for the first time, I spent some time researching whether it was safe. I discovered that dogs can eat shrimp if it’s cooked and completely plain, without added oils, butter, or seasoning. I also make sure to remove the shell, tail, and vein because those parts could be hard for dogs to digest. Having the Halo Collar makes me feel more comfortable too, since the GPS tracking lets me monitor my dog’s activity throughout the day.

If you’re thinking about switching your dog to fresh dog food, you’ve probably noticed just how many options are out there. From subscription meal services to refrigerated store brands and homemade recipes, it can feel overwhelming. So how do you know what’s best for your furry friend? Let’s break it down.

What Makes Dog Food “Fresh”?

Fresh dog food is typically refrigerated or frozen, made from whole, minimally processed ingredients, and designed to retain nutrients that are often lost in dry kibble. Key characteristics include:

High-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, fish, or lamb

Real vegetables and fruits for fiber and vitamins

Healthy fats such as fish oil or flaxseed oil

Absence of fillers, by-products, or artificial additives

Fresh food can be store-bought, subscription-delivered, or homemade — as long as it’s nutritionally balanced, it counts.

Why Fresh Dog Food Is Worth Considering

Better Digestion

Dogs often experience firmer stools, less gas, and improved digestion on fresh diets, especially if they’ve struggled with low-quality kibble.

Increased Palatability

Fresh food smells and tastes better — which can be a lifesaver for picky eaters.

Nutritional Quality

High-quality ingredients mean your dog is getting more protein, vitamins, and minerals per serving, which supports energy, coat health, and immune function.

Convenient Health Monitoring

Some fresh food subscriptions include app tracking, which allows you to monitor weight, meal intake, and overall health over time.

Choosing the Right Fresh Dog Food Consider Your Dog’s Life Stage

Puppies: High-protein, nutrient-dense meals for growth

Adults: Balanced meals for maintenance

Seniors: Easily digestible options with joint and kidney support

Consider Breed and Size

Large breeds may need joint-supporting nutrients and moderate calories

Small breeds may benefit from calorie-dense meals in smaller portions

Consider Health Needs

Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities may need limited-ingredient meals

Dogs with kidney, heart, or digestive concerns may need vet-approved formulations

Ingredients to Prioritize

Proteins: Chicken, beef, fish, lamb

Vegetables: Carrots, peas, sweet potatoes

Healthy fats: Fish oil, flaxseed oil

Carbohydrates: Rice, oats, quinoa

Avoid foods with by-products, fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Popular Fresh Dog Food Options

Subscription Meal Services

Brands like Nom Nom, Ollie, The Farmer’s Dog deliver pre-portioned, vet-approved meals to your door

Pros: Convenient, balanced, easy to store

Cons: Higher cost

Store-Bought Refrigerated/Frozen Brands

Freshpet, JustFoodForDogs

Pros: Easy to purchase locally, variety of flavors

Cons: Limited shelf life, needs constant refrigeration

Homemade Meals

Pros: Full control over ingredients, customizable

Cons: Requires vet guidance to ensure complete nutrition

Tips for Switching to Fresh Dog Food

Transition gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset

Start with 25% fresh food and 75% old food, then increase

Monitor stool quality, energy, and coat health

Adjust portions based on activity level and body condition

How Much to Feed Your Dog

Fresh food comes with feeding guidelines based on weight and age, but these are starting points. Adjust according to:

Your dog’s activity level

Body condition and weight goals

Vet recommendations

Final Thoughts

Fresh dog food can provide better nutrition, tastier meals, and improved digestion. Choosing the right option depends on your dog’s life stage, health needs, and your budget.