When considering a fresh diet for your dog, Freshpet Select Fresh Dog Food often comes up as a convenient refrigerated option. This review will help you decide if it is the right choice for your dog, based on product details, ingredient profile, and customer feedback.
About This Product
Freshpet Select Fresh Dog Food is a line of refrigerated, gently cooked dog foods made with real meat as the first ingredient. Unlike dry kibble, Freshpet is minimally processed and contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. The food is sold in the refrigerated section of pet retailers and grocery stores, requiring cold storage at home. It is designed to provide a fresher alternative to traditional dry or canned food while being more convenient than raw diets.
Freshpet offers several recipes including chicken, beef, and turkey, as well as grain-free options. The company emphasizes the use of whole vegetables and fruits, such as carrots, spinach, and cranberries, to provide natural nutrients. This product is suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages, but specific recipes are tailored for puppies, adults, and seniors. For a broader look at fresh dog food options, check out our full Dogs fresh dog food guide.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Dogs who need a fresh, high-moisture diet, especially those prone to dehydration or urinary issues. Also for owners who want a minimally processed food without artificial additives.
- Not ideal for: Dogs with very sensitive stomachs that react to high moisture or rich protein, or owners on a tight budget.
- Main benefit: Real meat as first ingredient, high moisture content, and no artificial preservatives.
- Main concern: Requires refrigeration and has a shorter shelf life; higher cost than kibble.
Product Overview
Freshpet Select is a refrigerated fresh dog food that comes in rolls or bags. The primary protein sources are chicken, beef, or turkey, depending on the recipe. Key features include:
- Real meat first: Chicken, beef, or turkey is the first ingredient, providing high-quality animal protein.
- Gently cooked: The food is cooked at low temperatures to preserve nutrients, then refrigerated.
- No artificial preservatives: Preserved naturally with vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
- Whole vegetables and fruits: Includes carrots, spinach, cranberries, and other produce for vitamins and antioxidants.
Nutritional profile varies by recipe, but typical analysis shows crude protein around 9-12%, crude fat 5-8%, and moisture 75-80%. This high moisture content is beneficial for hydration. The food is available in 1 lb rolls, 6 lb bags, and larger sizes. It targets dogs of all breeds, with specific formulas for small and large breeds.
Who This Product Is Best For
Freshpet Select is best for dog owners who want to feed a fresh, minimally processed diet without the hassle of raw food. It is particularly suitable for dogs that need extra moisture, such as those with kidney issues or urinary tract concerns. The high-quality ingredients may also benefit dogs with food sensitivities to common fillers like corn and soy. If you have a dog that is a picky eater, the fresh taste and smell might encourage eating. This product is also a good option for owners who want to avoid artificial additives and prefer a diet closer to what nature intended.
Who Should Avoid It
Dogs with very sensitive stomachs may not tolerate the high moisture or rich protein content, especially if they are used to kibble. Some dogs may experience loose stools when transitioning. Additionally, the cost per serving is higher than most dry foods, so it may not fit all budgets. Owners who travel frequently or have unreliable refrigeration should also avoid this product due to its storage requirements. Finally, if your dog requires a specific therapeutic diet for a medical condition, Freshpet may not be appropriate without veterinary approval.
Key Features
Real Meat as First Ingredient
Freshpet Select lists chicken, beef, or turkey as the first ingredient, ensuring a high-quality protein source. This supports muscle maintenance and provides essential amino acids. Based on customer feedback, dogs seem to enjoy the taste and often show improved coat condition.
High Moisture Content
With about 75-80% moisture, this food helps keep dogs hydrated, which is especially important for dogs that don’t drink enough water. Adequate hydration supports kidney function and digestion. However, the high moisture also means you need to feed more by volume to meet calorie needs.
No Artificial Preservatives or Fillers
The food is preserved with natural vitamin E and contains no corn, wheat, or soy. This reduces the risk of allergic reactions and makes it a cleaner option. Many owners report that their dogs have fewer skin issues after switching.
Convenient Refrigerated Format
Freshpet comes in rolls that can be sliced and served, or in bags of bite-sized pieces. It is easy to portion and requires no mixing. However, it must stay refrigerated and has a shelf life of about 7 days after opening, which may be inconvenient for some.
Performance and Use Case
Based on customer feedback and ingredient profile, Freshpet Select performs well in several areas. For digestion, the high moisture and limited ingredients may help dogs with mild sensitivities, but some dogs may experience loose stools initially. Transition slowly over 7-10 days. For coat quality, the natural fats and proteins often lead to a shinier coat and healthier skin. Weight management can be achieved by measuring portions, but the food is calorie-dense, so monitor intake. Energy levels generally improve due to high-quality protein. For joint support, while the food does not contain added glucosamine, the anti-inflammatory ingredients like omega-3s may help. Overall, it suits active adult dogs well.
How It Compares
Compared to Royal Canin Large Breed, Freshpet offers a fresher ingredient list with higher moisture, but Royal Canin is more affordable and shelf-stable. Royal Canin is also backed by extensive research for large breed health. Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed is another budget-friendly option with proven nutrition, but it contains more processed ingredients and lower moisture. Freshpet excels in ingredient quality but loses on convenience and price. For dogs that thrive on fresh food, Freshpet is a strong choice; for budget-conscious owners, Hill’s or Royal Canin may be better.
Buying Advice
Before buying Freshpet Select, consider your dog’s age, size, and health needs. Choose the appropriate life stage formula. Check the AAFCO statement on the label to ensure it meets nutritional adequacy. Look at protein and fat levels: active dogs may need higher protein, while less active dogs need lower fat. Always consult your veterinarian, especially if your dog has health conditions. Budget for the higher cost and ensure you have consistent refrigeration. Start with a small roll to test acceptance and digestion.
Final Verdict
Freshpet Select Fresh Dog Food is a high-quality, fresh option for dogs that need a moisture-rich, minimally processed diet. Its real meat ingredients and lack of artificial additives are commendable. However, the higher cost and refrigeration requirements may not suit everyone. For dogs that can tolerate it and owners who can afford it, it is a recommended choice. For more details, see our best fresh dog food guide and the Golden Retriever complete guide for breed-specific advice.
