Freshpet Alternatives in 2026: Best Options Compared
Freshpet is one of the most recognized names in fresh/refrigerated dog food, but it’s not the only option worth considering. Whether you’re concerned about cost, looking for different protein sources, or simply want to explore what else is available, this guide covers the five best Freshpet alternatives in 2026.
What Is Freshpet?
Freshpet is a refrigerated fresh pet food brand available at thousands of retail stores nationwide in convenient refrigerator cases. $5–$20/week depending on dog size. It has built a loyal customer base thanks to its consistent quality, reliable delivery, and strong customer service—but it’s not perfect for every dog owner or every budget.
Common reasons dog owners look for Freshpet alternatives:
- Higher price point than some budgets allow
- Dog has specific dietary sensitivities not covered by current formulas
- Desire to rotate between brands for nutritional variety
- Availability or shipping concerns in certain regions
- Preference for different protein sources or ingredient philosophies
Top 5 Freshpet Alternatives in 2026
| # | Alternative | Type | Price (Approx.) | Key Pros | Key Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Farmer’s Dog | home-delivered human-grade fresh dog food | $2–$12/day | Personalized plans, human-grade quality, door delivery | Delivery only, more expensive |
| 2 | Ollie | human-grade fresh dog food subscription | $3–$8/day | High quality, wide recipe range, good subscription flexibility | Delivery only, premium price |
| 3 | JustFoodForDogs | vet-developed fresh food at select retail stores | $4–$12/day | Available at select Petco stores, whole ingredients, vet-formulated | Less widely available than Freshpet |
| 4 | Stella & Chewy’s Raw Coated Kibble | freeze-dried raw-coated kibble for a fresh food boost | $30–$70/bag | Convenient kibble format, raw nutrition boost, widely available | Not truly fresh, freeze-dried coating only |
| 5 | Instinct Raw Boost | kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces mixed in | $35–$75/bag | Easy transition from kibble, raw ingredient boost, good palatability | Not fully fresh, still primarily kibble |
1. The Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog is home-delivered human-grade fresh dog food. At $2–$12/day per delivery, it positions itself as a mid-range alternative to Freshpet.
Price: $2–$12/day
Pros: Personalized plans, human-grade quality, door delivery
Cons: Delivery only, more expensive
Best for: Dog owners who want [a reliable alternative with different formulation options](https://www.chewy.com/s?query=the+farmer’s+dog)
2. Ollie
Ollie is human-grade fresh dog food subscription. At $3–$8/day per delivery, it positions itself as a premium alternative to Freshpet.
Price: $3–$8/day
Pros: High quality, wide recipe range, good subscription flexibility
Cons: Delivery only, premium price
Best for: Dog owners who want [a reliable alternative with different formulation options](https://www.chewy.com/s?query=ollie)
3. JustFoodForDogs
JustFoodForDogs is vet-developed fresh food at select retail stores. At $4–$12/day per delivery, it positions itself as a top-tier alternative to Freshpet.
Price: $4–$12/day
Pros: Available at select Petco stores, whole ingredients, vet-formulated
Cons: Less widely available than Freshpet
Best for: Dog owners who want [a reliable alternative with different formulation options](https://www.chewy.com/s?query=justfoodfordogs)
4. Stella & Chewy’s Raw Coated Kibble
Stella & Chewy’s Raw Coated Kibble is freeze-dried raw-coated kibble for a fresh food boost. At $30–$70/bag per delivery, it positions itself as a value-oriented alternative to Freshpet.
Price: $30–$70/bag
Pros: Convenient kibble format, raw nutrition boost, widely available
Cons: Not truly fresh, freeze-dried coating only
Best for: Dog owners who want [a reliable alternative with different formulation options](https://www.chewy.com/s?query=stella+&+chewy’s+raw+coated+kibble)
5. Instinct Raw Boost
Instinct Raw Boost is kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces mixed in. At $35–$75/bag per delivery, it positions itself as a budget-friendly alternative to Freshpet.
Price: $35–$75/bag
Pros: Easy transition from kibble, raw ingredient boost, good palatability
Cons: Not fully fresh, still primarily kibble
Best for: Dog owners who want [a reliable alternative with different formulation options](https://www.chewy.com/s?query=instinct+raw+boost)
How Freshpet Compares to Its Alternatives
When comparing Freshpet to these alternatives, consider three primary factors: ingredient quality, convenience, and cost per day. Freshpet excels in refrigerated fresh pet food brand available at thousands of retail stores nationwide in convenient refrigerator cases, but some alternatives offer different strengths that may better suit specific dogs or lifestyles.
Cost comparison: Freshpet tends to land in the $5–$20/week depending on dog size range. Budget-conscious owners may find more affordable options above, while those prioritizing maximum quality might prefer one of the premium alternatives.
Ingredient quality: Look for named meat proteins as the first ingredient, minimal fillers, and formulas tailored to your dog’s life stage and size.
Convenience: Consider whether subscription delivery, local availability, or auto-ship discounts fit your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Freshpet worth the price?
Freshpet offers consistent quality that justifies its price for many dog owners. However, several alternatives listed above provide comparable or superior nutrition at different price points. The best value depends on your dog’s specific needs and your budget.
Can I mix Freshpet with other foods?
Yes, gradual food transitions mixing old and new food over 7–10 days reduce digestive upset. This approach works well when transitioning between Freshpet and any of these alternatives.
How do I choose the best Freshpet alternative for my dog?
Consider your dog’s age, size, activity level, and any dietary sensitivities first. Then evaluate price, ingredient quality, and delivery convenience. Many owners choose to rotate between two compatible brands seasonally for nutritional variety.
Are there any free-trial options for Freshpet alternatives?
Several fresh food delivery services offer introductory trial boxes at reduced cost. Check each brand’s website for current promotions, as trial offers change frequently.
*Affiliate Disclosure: GetPetPros.com participates in affiliate programs including Amazon Associates, Chewy’s affiliate program, and other pet product affiliate networks. We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on independent research and editorial judgment.*