October 14, 2025
For many pet parents, dogs aren’t just animals — they’re family. Just as people have become more mindful of what they eat, dog owners are also paying closer attention to what goes into their pets’ bowls. Over the last decade, fresh dog food has gone from a niche option to a rapidly growing segment of the pet food industry. The rise of delivery services like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie has made it easier than ever to access nutritionally balanced, pre-portioned meals designed with canine health in mind.
But for all the enthusiasm around fresh food, one big question often holds pet parents back: how do you actually switch your dog from kibble to fresh meals without dealing with stomach upsets, picky eating, or the stress of change?
This guide walks through the why, the how, and the what to expect when transitioning your dog to fresh food. It’s based on veterinary feeding guidance, industry research, and pet parent experiences. By the end, you’ll know how to make the shift as smooth as possible — for both you and your pup.
The U.S. pet food market is large and expanding — in 2022, dog food alone generated about US$42.1 billion in sales, and total food and treat sales are even higher. The fresh and refrigerated/frozen segment has been one of the fastest-growing categories.
Many pet parents say they are interested in more natural, human-grade options, including fresh food delivery services. Motivations often include:
Services like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie have built their offerings around these preferences, with recipes formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles. While kibble and canned food remain dominant, the appeal of fresh diets continues to grow.
It’s important to avoid exaggerated claims about fresh food. No diet can guarantee a longer life or cure health conditions. What can be said — and is supported by current evidence — are certain benefits of high-quality fresh or lightly cooked diets:
Some pet parents make the mistake of swapping foods overnight. Dogs’ digestive systems need time to adapt to new ingredients. Switching too quickly may cause:
There are also practical considerations:
Veterinary nutritionists and organizations like the Pet Food Institute recommend a gradual transition, usually over 7–10 days, longer if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Suggested schedule:
Days 1–3: 25% fresh food, 75% old food
Days 4–6: 50% fresh food, 50% old food
Days 7–9: 75% fresh food, 25% old food
Day 10+: 100% fresh food
During the transition:
Transitioning doesn’t have to be stressful. A few strategies can make the process easier:
Some dogs need extra care when transitioning:
When in doubt, speak with your veterinarian.
Fresh food isn’t limited to boutique shops anymore — subscription delivery has made access simpler.
These services address common concerns:
Pre-portioning: Meals are measured to fit your dog’s needs.
Packaging & storage: Vacuum-sealed packs make freezing and thawing easier, though shelf life remains shorter than kibble.
Supply consistency: Auto-delivery reduces the risk of running out of meals.
Transitioning your dog to fresh food doesn’t have to be messy or stressful. By taking it slow, monitoring your dog’s response, and following simple storage and feeding tips, the process can be smooth and successful.
Fresh dog food reflects a broader shift in pet care toward transparency, convenience, and quality ingredients. Brands like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie make it easier for pet parents to explore balanced fresh diets. With patience and the right plan, your dog can thrive — and you can feel confident in making a thoughtful nutrition choice.
Top10.com's editorial staff is a professional team of editors and writers with dozens of years of experience covering consumer, financial and business products and services.
