Every pet parent wants to help their dog live the best life possible. And for most, that starts with providing a healthy, nutritious, well-balanced diet. However, the cost of pet food has increased dramatically over recent years. According to one report, sales of dog food and treats soared 18 percent between 2021 and 2022, and premium pet food sales increased by 16 percent in that same period. 

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, pet parents saw an average year-over-year increase in pet food prices of 7.5 percent between September 2022 and 2023. And, compared to five years ago, the consumer price index for pet food has soared over 25 percent. 

“Petflation” may have many pet parents thinking about trimming their budgets. But that doesn’t have to mean settling for a lower standard of nutrition for your pup…especially if you choose Nature’s Recipe, a brand that prides itself on providing premium, healthy dog food at affordable prices. 

Over the past 40+ years, Nature’s Recipe dog food has earned an outstanding reputation for nourishing diets that help dogs of every age, stage, and size thrive. To help you decide if this established option is the right fit for your dog, here’s an overview of Nature’s Recipe dog food, its leading formulas, and what sets them apart from the competition.

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Formulas to Consider

Still not sure which Nature’s Recipe dog food formula fits your furry friend best? Here’s a deeper dive into some of the brand’s most popular diets.

Nature’s Recipe Whole Grain Dog Food

Unlike cats, dogs are not obligate carnivores. Although meat should feature prominently in the canine diet, domestic dogs are in fact omnivores. That means they can digest and absorb nutrients from both meat and plant-based foods, including grains.

According to Nature’s Recipe, the key is to choose a healthy dog food that includes grains packed with nutritional benefits, like those found in such as Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Salmon, Turkey Variety Pack. This assortment features cups of rich, tender meat and fish shreds, complete with wholesome carbohydrates like sweet potato, pumpkin, brown rice, and barley, all surrounded by a delicious savory broth. 

“Carbohydrates are an important energy source for dogs,” says Dr. Caos. “Look for whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, or quinoa as they provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.”

Nature’s Recipe Whole Grain formulas are available in both wet and dry dog food options. Recipes feature real poultry, meat, or fish balanced with wholesome vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, plus added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. So you know your dog is getting a complete and well-balanced meal that’s packed with the flavors dogs love.

 Key benefits:

• High-quality protein from real animal sources to promote healthy muscle development
• Contains no poultry by-product meal
• Includes nutrient-dense, fiber-rich whole grains, including rice, oatmeal, and barley
• Formulated without corn, wheat, or soy
• No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
• Dry dog food formula comes in two tasty flavors for adult dogs (Chicken, Barley & Brown Rice and Lamb, Barley & Brown Rice), plus specialized formulas for senior dogs (Lamb & Brown Rice), puppies (Lamb & Rice), and Small Bites featuring mini kibble pieces perfect for smaller mouths (Chicken, Barley & Brown Rice)
• Choose from cans of wet dog food formulated for adults (Chicken, Rice & Barley or Lamb, Rice & Barley), available in hearty stew texture or ground texture
• Or opt for adult wet dog food formulas available in convenient cups packed with tender meat or fish in a savory broth (Chicken & Brown Rice; Chicken, Wild Salmon & Brown Rice; Chicken, Barley & Turkey)
• Also available in Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Salmon, Turkey variety pack, so your dog can enjoy a rich, delicious, buffet of their favorite flavors.  

Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food

For dogs who prefer a food without grain, Nature’s Recipe offers delicious grain-free wet and dry dog food formulas that provide complete nourishment, including healthy carbohydrates from natural, non-grain sources, such as sweet potato and pumpkin. 

“Ultimately, the decision between grain-free formulas and regular diets should be based on careful consideration of your dog’s nutritional needs, health status, and professional guidance from a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist,” Dr. Caos says. “They can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your dog’s specific requirements.”

Key benefits:

• Dry food formulas contain real chicken or salmon as the #1 ingredient 
• Made with nutrient-dense alternatives to whole grains, including fiber-rich sweet potato and pumpkin 

• May be easier for some dogs to digest
• Formulated without corn, wheat, or soy protein
• Contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
• Contains no poultry by-product meal 
• Choose between two tempting flavors of kibble for adult dogs (Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin or Lamb, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin)
• Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin kibble recipe is also available in specialized formulas for small-breed and large-breed adult dogs, as well as puppies
• Nature’s Recipe also offers two grain-free formulas designed for all life stages (Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin all-ages dry dog food and Chicken in Savory Broth all-ages wet dog food)
• For adult dogs who love plenty of options, Nature’s Recipe has a wide range of flavorful adult wet dog food choices featuring tender morsels in savory broth (Chicken & Venison, Chicken & Duck, Chicken & Beef, Chicken & Turkey, and Chicken & Lamb)
• For your convenience, grain-free variety packs of wet dog food are also available (Chicken, Venison, Duck Variety Pack or Chicken, Beef, Turkey, Lamb Variety Pack)

Nature’s Recipe Easy-to-Digest Dog Food

Although all Nature’s Recipe natural dog food formulas are highly digestible, the company also offers a dry food option that’s specially formulated to be extra gentle on your dog’s stomach.

It’s made with chicken meal, an easily digestible source of quality protein. Plus, it contains prebiotics and a proprietary blend of natural fibers to promote healthy digestion and bowel movements in your dog.

Key benefits:

• High-quality protein from easy-to-digest chicken meal, so it’s easier on your dog’s stomach
• Contains natural prebiotics and fiber from whole grains like barley and brown rice to help support gut health and promote healthy digestive function
• Formulated without corn, wheat, or soy
• Made without artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

What Is Nature’s Recipe?

For more than 40 years, Nature’s Recipe has been producing nutritious dog food made with quality, natural ingredients, along with the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients essential to your dog’s overall health and well-being. 

Developed in conjunction with veterinarians, nutrition experts, and scientists, Nature’s Recipe formulas feature quality ingredients chosen specifically for their nutritional and health benefits. These include:

• Real animal proteins, such as chicken, lamb, or salmon, to help support your dog’s muscle development and overall health
• Nutrient-dense sweet potatoes to help support vitality and energy needs 
• Pumpkin, a natural source of fiber, to help promote healthy digestion
• Vitamin-rich carrots to support vision and strong joints
• Peas to support a healthy heart and immune system
• Oats to help support heart function
• Flaxseed for Omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote healthy skin and coat

Plus, Nature’s Recipe also offers a range of specialized formulas that cater to the unique needs of dogs based on their size, age, and dietary preferences.  

According to Dr. Alejandro Caos, DVM, a veterinarian with The Vets, a healthy dog food is one that meets the specific needs of your dog. “Ultimately, healthy dog food should provide balanced nutrition, use high-quality ingredients, promote proper digestion, and be suitable for your dog’s life stage and any unique dietary considerations they may have,” he said.

Types of Nature’s Recipe Dog Food 

Nature’s Recipe was built upon the belief that every dog has the right to eat nutritious food. So the brand manufactures a wide array of options for dogs of all sizes and life stages, as well as diets tailored to specialized nutritional needs. 

If that sounds overwhelming, here’s a helpful breakdown of the categories of dog food Nature’s Recipe offers, so you can zero in on the best choices for your pup. 

Whole Grain or Grain Free: Some dogs flourish on formulas that include whole grains, while others thrive on a grain-free diet. Nature’s Recipe offers wet and dry dog food made with healthy whole grains like rice and oatmeal instead of corn or wheat, as well as grain-free options made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin.

Easy-to-Digest: For dogs with sensitive stomachs, Nature’s Recipe offers highly digestible formulas made with prebiotics and natural fibers. 

Life Stages: Depending on the age of your pet, Nature’s Recipe offers formulas for puppies (up to 1 year old), adults (dogs 1 to 7 years old), and seniors (meant for dogs 7 to 8 years and older). 

Sizes: Recipes for small breed dogs (weighing less than 25 pounds) are energy-dense, lower in fat, and higher in fiber, and come in small-size kibble for little mouths. Formulas for large breed dogs (weighing more than 50 pounds) are lower in caloric density to promote a healthy weight and contain taurine and carnitine to support heart health.

All Nature’s Recipe diets are formulated without corn, wheat, poultry by-product meal, and artificial flavors and preservatives.

Which Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Formula is Right for Your Dog? 

With so many healthy options to choose from, it can be hard to know which Nature’s Recipe formula might be best for your dog. All Nature’s Recipe dog food formulas provide complete and balanced nutrition for the life stage indicated on the label, according to the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). So the choice often comes down to your dog’s individual nutrition requirements…and palate! 

“When deciding on the best type of food for your dog, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian, who can evaluate your dog’s individual needs and make personalized recommendations based on factors such as age, size, breed, activity level, and overall health,” Dr. Caos says.  

Foods formulated for puppies (sometimes called “growth diets”) contain different levels of nutrients to fuel healthy growth. Foods meant for adult dogs (sometimes called “maintenance diets”) provide balanced nutrition to maintain good health and an appropriate weight when fed in the proper amounts. Although senior dogs can eat food labeled for adults, some older pups benefit from a senior or “mature” diet, which is nutrient-dense and offers more protein 

“If your dog is under a year old, they should be on puppy food. When they are 1 to 8 years old, they should be on adult food. And when they are over 8 years old, they should be on senior food,” says Dr. Nicole Savageau, DVM, who also works with The Vets. 

“Many companies not only have specific small, medium, large, and giant breed dog foods, but they also make these foods for all of the different life stages, as well,”  Dr. Savageau adds. “So you could buy small breed puppy food, adult food, and senior food to cover their entire life span.”

If you’re wondering whether dry food or wet food is better for your dog, Dr. Caos says both can be healthy options. “The choice between wet and dry food depends on factors such as your dog’s specific needs, preferences, health conditions, and any recommendations from your veterinarian. Some dog owners choose to feed a combination of both wet and dry food, which can offer the benefits of both types.”

In addition to talking with your veterinarian about what nutritional profile or type of food would benefit your dog the most, you can use a handy tool like this one from Nature’s Recipe. The Find My Recipe tool helps you narrow down your choices according to your dog’s nutritional needs.   

Whether you’re looking for grain-free dog food, natural dog food with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, easy-to-digest dog food, or whole-grain dog food, Nature’s Recipe offers something sure to delight your dog’s taste buds and support their overall health and well-being.

The author received compensation from PetSmart for their services in writing this article.

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You might be surprised to learn that most dogs have some form of dental disease by the age of 3 (1). Tartar, plaque, and bacteria buildup wreak havoc on your dog’s teeth and gums, leading to bad breath, gum inflammation, and tooth loss. 

Brushing your dog’s teeth daily and having them professionally cleaned annually is the gold standard of care for dog dental health. In addition to these two important tactics, some dental health products, inducing dental gels, rinses, bones, chews, and treats, can help keep teeth clean and breath fresh.

Companies like Zesty Paws take it one step farther, with functional dental bones that include ingredients that offer dental support and other health benefits.

What Is Zesty Paws?

Zesty Paws offers a variety of functional products and multivitamins for dogs and cats. Many Zesty Paws products, including their All-in-One-FUNctional Dental Bones, offer multiple health benefits. All Zesty Paws products are manufactured in the United States using high-quality ingredients without artificial flavors or colors. Best of all, they are formulated to taste great so pets love them.

Zesty Paws is a member of the National Animal Supplement Council; having passed a rigorous independent audit of their facilities, Zesty Paws products can carry the NASC Quality Seal.

The company also stands behind the quality of its products, offering a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on all of its domestic products and supplements. In 2022, Newsweek recognized Zesty Paws as one of America’s Best Petcare Brands in the category of Digestive Support for Dogs.

Zesty Paws Product Line

The Zesty Paws product line includes liquid supplements, chews, fish oils, probiotics, training treats, and dental bones. Zesty Paws products are formulated to support various systems, including the gut, hip and joints, skin and coat, heart, liver, eyes, and behavior.

Some examples include Zesty Paws Gut Health, Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites, Zesty Paws Salmon Oil, Zesty Paws Skin and Coat, and Zesty Paws Calming Bites.

Zesty Paws Dental Bones

Zesty Paws All-in-One-FUNctional Dental Bones, part of the company’s multifunctional line of products, are chewy with a ridged texture to support gum health and get between the teeth to fight plaque and tartar.

Zesty Paws dental bones do more than support a healthy mouth. Each is packed with wholesome ingredients that benefit a dog’s skin and coat, joints, and gut health and offer immune support. In addition to cinnamon to help freshen breath, other ingredients include sweet potato flour, rice flour, pea protein, fish oil, and turmeric. 

Putting Zesty Paws Dental Bones to the Test

You never know how your dog will react to a new treat until you try it out. I frequently test new pet products on dogs in my circle. Eva, a 12-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever I often pet sit, was happy to put Zesty Paws All-in-One-FUNctional Dental Bones for large-sized dogs to the test.

Eva is in excellent health, but in recent years, her pet parents have been hesitant to put her under general anesthesia for dental cleanings, preferring to try at-home products like dental bones. Eva can sometimes get an upset tummy when she first tries new things, so we were careful to introduce the Zesty Paws bones slowly. 

The first thing I noticed when I took the bones out of the package was the delicious aroma. Dog bones are not always the best-smelling thing, so it was a pleasant surprise to catch a whiff of the Zesty Paws Dental Bones, which smell like cinnamon baked goods. 

Eva apparently picked up on the attractive aroma too, and was practically dancing to get her paws on one of the bones. Eva is not a picky dog, but she sure did love these dental bones. This is not necessarily a long-lasting chew for all dogs.

Eva got through the bone somewhat quickly, but she did have to gnaw it into smaller pieces, so she seemed to benefit from the chewing action that should help clean her teeth. The bones were very clean, leaving behind no mess or residue. 

A dog of Eva’s size can have up to two of the large-size bones per day, making them a great morning and evening treat. Eva has some joint issues and her mobility has suffered in her older age, so her owners appreciate the additional calcium and omega-3 fatty acids found in the dental bones. 

Things We Like

• Zesty Paws offers a huge selection of supplements and multivitamins for pets. Some target specific needs, but many Zesty Paws products, including All-in-One-FUNctional Dental Bones, are formulated to provide multiple health benefits in areas most dogs commonly need help.
• Zesty Paws products are manufactured in the United States from wholesome ingredients, and do not include any artificial flavors or colors. 
• My test dog loved the taste of the bones, and suffered no digestive upset, even though she often has a sensitive tummy. 
• The smell is pleasant and the bones are not messy. 
• As a member of the National Animal Supplement Council, Zesty Paws products can carry the NASC Quality Seal.

Things to Consider

• Even the large-size dental bones are somewhat small for a large dog like a Labrador Retriever, and they don’t last a terribly long time, making them more of a treat than a chew. 
• This product does not carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Registered Seal, awarded to dental products that submit the results of clinical trials that show the product reduces plaque and tartar on animal teeth. However, the company is working toward getting this seal of approval.

Zesty Paws Reviews: What They’re Saying

Here is a snapshot of what some other customers have been saying about the Zesty Paws Dental Bones:

“We got these for our 5-month-old puppy to get her used to chewing on dental bones and to start her off to a life of clean, pearly white teeth, and she absolutely loves them. They keep her busy long enough for the house to have a little quiet time, and she has not had any digestive disruptions from them! We will definitely keep getting these for her.” —Ambro

“My fur baby has been using these for several months now and they have been wonderful. I can see a difference in his teeth. He is 13 and I’ve always worried about his gums and teeth. I used to brush them, but it was difficult as he did not like that. With this, it is a fun ‘treat’ to him. I also use their vitamins and they are good quality as well and he loves them!” —WhitneyR

“My dog Ollie has a very sensitive stomach and on top of that he’s very picky. He loves all his other Zesty Paws products so when I saw they made dental bones I decided to try them out. Now they’re a part of his morning routine, he gets a bone after breakfast and it takes away the dog food smell from his breath. He has no problems digesting them either!” —Olliepup

Zesty Paws Dental Bones: Our Verdict

After testing out Zesty Paws, the overall verdict is positive. Eva the dog loved the taste. Her pet parents (and I) appreciate the bones’ functional ingredients, pleasant smell, and neatness. These bones seem to provide more nutritional advantage than your average dog treat, though the dental health claims will be stronger once the product earns the VOHC registered seal.

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No doubt about it, dogs love to chew! And for good reason: Chewing is a natural canine behavior that provides both physical and mental stimulation. Plus, all that chomping and gnawing helps support clean and healthy teeth for your dog.

However beneficial chewing may be, excessive chewing isn’t always a welcome behavior…especially if it turns destructive. Luckily, there are plenty of acceptable chews on the market that can help deter your dog from gnawing on your shoes and other off-limits items. And that’s good news for everyone in the family.

Recently, I had the chance to try out two such chews on my own resident chewer, a miniature poodle named Jäger. Better Belly Pork Hide Twists and Better Belly Dental Chews are two new chews designed to offer a safer and more enjoyable way to satisfy your dog’s urge to chew.

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Better Belly: Safer Than Rawhide Bones

Jäger is a bit of a chewing expert. So I’ve tried my fair share of chews over the years, and some are definitely better than others. 

As most pet parents know, actual bones can be risky for dogs to chew. Cooked bones can crack and splinter, cutting your dog’s mouth or doing even more damage if swallowed. And while raw bones may be less likely to splinter, if handled improperly, they can cause food-borne illnesses.

Rawhide chew treats made from dried animal hides are often seen as a safer alternative.  However, traditional rawhide chews can be hard to digest, and if large pieces break off, they can pose choking and intestinal obstruction risks for dogs. 

This is where our test chews come in. Better Belly developed a unique manufacturing process to break down the tough collagen fibers that make traditional rawhide so hard to digest. The result is a highly digestible rawhide that’s designed to break down easily and rapidly, while still providing a long-lasting chew.

Better Belly Product Line

Better Belly offers many different types of chews, from knotted bones, to rolls, to twists, in sizes appropriate for dogs large and small. They even have chews wrapped with real meat, like lamb and venison.

Jäger and I were interested in seeing how the brand’s two newest products measured up:

Better Belly Pork Hide Twists

These highly digestible pork hide chews are made with thin sheets of rolled pork hide and have a natural smoke flavor. The chews are grain-free and gluten-free and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Like all of Better Belly’s chews, the pork hide is specially processed to break down the tough fibers, so dogs can chew it more easily and digest it two times faster than traditional rawhide. These small twists are ideal for toy breeds and smaller dogs, though larger dogs can enjoy them too. With 25 in a pack, you can treat your dog for almost a month (the recommended feeding instructions are one chew a day).

Better Belly Dental Chews

Part of Better Belly’s Fresh Breath Dental line, these chews are made of a thin, ridged sheet of specially-processed, easily digestible rawhide rolled into a chew-worthy roll. These chews help support dental health in three ways. First, the rawhide has ridges that help clean the teeth as your dog chews. The chews also contain a special ingredient to help reduce tartar buildup, and they are flavored with spearmint to freshen breath. The chews are grain-free and gluten-free, and contain no artificial flavors or added colors. Like all of Better Belly’s chews, the dental chews can be digested easily—two times faster than traditional rawhide.  

Putting Better Belly to the Test

I was pretty excited about testing out Better Belly’s new chews. (Though it’s possible Jäger was even more eager to try them out.)

One of the first things I consider when looking for new chews is how hard they are. You’d think hardness would be a desirable quality in a chew you want to last for a while. But dogs—especially powerful chewers like Jäger—can actually break a tooth on chews that are too hard. We learned that the hard way when Jäger was younger and ended up needing a root canal after he broke his tooth on a hard chew. 

One way to make sure a chew isn’t too hard is to see if you can bend the chew or push your thumbnail into the chew. Better Belly’s Dental Chews and Pork Hide Twists both passed this test. 

The Dental Chews do not bend, but because the rolls are made with very thin sheets of ridged rawhide, there is some give and I could easily press my thumbnail into the top layer of the chew. The Pork Hide Twists are also rolled, made from thin sheets of pork hide, which is not as tough as beef rawhide. The Pork Hide Twists were flexible enough that I could easily bend them. 

The next consideration when considering a new chew is, of course, taste! If you want your dog to choose a chew over, say, your favorite pair of shoes, then it’s got to be yummy. 

To give each type of chew a fair shot, I introduced them to Jäger on different days. 

With both the twists and the dental chew, he immediately ran off after I gave him his new chew treat and started searching the house for a special hiding spot—something he does when he gets a chew that he considers very high value. After “burying” each chew in the couch cushions for a few hours, he eventually pulled them out and started enjoying chewing on them. 

I was curious if Jäger would like the spearmint flavor of the Dental Chew, and he did! I liked the fact that this chew had no odor and did not make a mess. My dog also enjoyed the Pork Hide Twist, though the smaller twist didn’t last as long as the larger dental chew did. The Pork Hide Twist has a mild smoked meat aroma, and also did not make a mess while Jäger was enjoying them. 

Another key consideration with any chew is digestibility. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, some chews might not agree with their system. Jäger has developed a bit of a sensitive tummy in his senior years and can’t always handle every treat and chew these days. So I was curious to see if the Better Belly chews were truly better for his belly.  

Happily, Better Belly’s proprietary processing system seemed to do the trick for my pup. Jäger digested both chews very well.  

Things We Like

Better Belly chews provide a great highly digestible alternative to traditional rawhide that is safer and more digestible for dogs. All chews can help support dental health, but the company’s Fresh Breath Dental Chews offer extra benefits, with ingredients that help reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath. Better Belly chews come in many different flavors and styles, with plenty of options for dogs with food sensitivities or intolerance who may need to avoid certain ingredients.  

Things to Consider

Because Better Belly’s chews are treated to make them less tough than traditional rawhide, the chews may not last as long as traditional rawhide chews. However, my dog still chewed these for a decent amount of time. The added safety and digestibility made up for the length of time each chew lasts, in my opinion.

Better Belly Chews and Twists: Our Verdict

Better Belly Dental Chews and Pork Hide Twists are an excellent highly digestible alternative to traditional rawhide chews, due to their unique texture, appealing flavors, and easy digestibility. The chews are particularly good options for powerful chewers and dogs with sensitive tummies. The wide variety of sizes, shapes, and flavors provide plenty of options for picky dogs, as well as those with food sensitivities or intolerances that may need to avoid certain ingredients. Overall, these are solid (and yummy!) dog chews that are perfect for satisfying any pup’s urge to chew.

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If you’re thinking about trying fresh pet food, you’re not alone. Once a very small segment, fresh pet food has made a big impact in recent years. Technology research and advisory company Technavio estimates that the fresh pet food market will experience growth of approximately 23 percent from 2020 to 2025. Compared to kibble and canned dog food, fresh dog food is less processed and often contains human-grade ingredients, so it can elevate your dog’s diet to the next level.  

All of the fresh dog food companies offer different recipes, so it’s important to check out their offerings to see if it’s something that will work for your dog. The best way to know if you and your dog will love a fresh pet food brand is to try it. Most companies offer discounted trials so you can see for yourself. We recently put Ollie fresh dog food to the test, so read on for a detailed overview and review. 

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What Is Ollie Dog Food?

Ollie delivers fresh dog food right to your doorstep, eliminating the need to cook for your dog or make a trip to the store to buy dog food. Food is auto-delivered on a regular schedule according to your dog’s individual meal plan. Ollie food is made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, and portions are customized based on your dog’s profile. 

Ollie is headquartered in New York City. The company’s mission is to create the highest quality dog food with the best ingredients available. Ollie food is cooked in small batches in the company’s human-grade facilities in New Jersey. 

Ollie is also environmentally conscious, choosing partners with established and responsible sourcing practices, and working to reduce energy, water, and waste. Most of Ollie’s packaging is recyclable or made from recyclable material (the company eventually hopes to be 100 percent recyclable or recycled).

Ollie Dog Food Features

All of Ollie’s recipes were developed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. The recipes are complete and balanced according to the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AFFCO). 

The company uses human-grade ingredients, sourcing its chicken and beef from high-quality, human-grade farms in the United States, and its premium lamb from human-grade farms in the U.S. and Australia. Ollie dog food contains no by-products, fillers, artificial flavoring, or preservatives.

Ollie food is minimally processed. It’s gently cooked at low temperatures to preserve the nutrients of the high-quality ingredients, then hand-packed, vacuum-sealed, and frozen. It arrives frozen in a box with dry ice to keep the food cold until you can transfer it to your freezer or refrigerator. The food is portioned in resealable packs.

Ollie Dog Food Cost

The cost of Ollie dog food varies depending on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. For a 40-pound, moderately active dog, Ollie costs about $51 per week ($204 per month). 

Ollie Dog Food Recipes

Ollie currently offers three recipes: Chicken Dish With Carrots, Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes, and Lamb Dish With Cranberries. Each recipe contains one main meat protein source, plus carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, oils, and vitamins and minerals. A complete ingredients list for each recipe can be found at MyOllie.com.

Ollie dog food is subscription based, which means you commit to regular home delivery of food. The signup process is quick and easy; simply answer a few questions about your dog (age, breed or mix, weight, activity level, and whether your dog is underweight, normal weight, or overweight). Next, select your recipes. You can opt for just one recipe, two recipes, or all three. Ollie offers a two-week trial at 60 percent off the regular price. Shipping is free (Ollie ships everywhere in the U.S. except Alaska and Hawaii). 

Subscribe today and get 60% off your first box!

Putting Ollie Fresh Dog Food to the Test

For my Ollie trial, I tried two recipes: Chicken Dish With Carrots and Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes. 

My Miniature Poodle Jäger usually eats a premium kibble diet, plus premium canned food. Ollie suggests making the switch to fresh food gradually, to avoid upsetting your pup’s stomach. We followed the transition instructions in our first box, starting by mixing 25 percent Ollie food and 75 percent of our old food, then gradually increasing the amount of Ollie and decreasing the amount of the old food. It takes about 10 days to fully transition to 100 percent Ollie food. 

When testing out a new food, I always first look at the ingredients of the food, looking for high-quality proteins and carbohydrates, as well as healthy extras like fish oil and fruits and vegetables. Next, I consider the packaging of the food. Is it easy to open, serve, and store? But the biggest test of a new dog food is whether my dog likes the taste and how well he does on it, which is easy to judge by looking at his stool output and appearance. 

I love Ollie’s simple recipes that use high-quality, human-grade ingredients. The food looks a bit like canned dog food, but you can see pieces of the wholesome ingredients like chicken, rice, carrots, and spinach. 

When I received my shipment, I put all the food packs into my freezer, leaving one in the fridge to thaw overnight. Each night, I transferred a new pack to the fridge so the food would be ready for the next day. Once opened, Ollie is good for four days in the refrigerator. 

Ollie’s food packs have an easy-peel top, so they are simple to open and easy to reseal if you don’t feed the entire pack at one meal. My dog eats one pack a day, split between two meals, so I liked storing the leftovers in the included airtight “puptainer,” which keeps leftover food neatly stored until the next meal. 

My dog loves the taste of Ollie. He wolfed down his meal and licked the bowl clean. He did well on the food, experiencing no stomach upset and his poops were regular and well-formed— neither loose nor runny. Mealtime got pretty exciting around our house during our Ollie trial!

Things We Like

• Feeding Ollie is ideal for pet parents who want to feed homemade dog food but find the process overwhelming. It’s not easy to cook for your dog at home and ensure he’s getting the proper nutrients in the correct amounts to support optimal health. Cooking for your dog at home is also a lot of work and not something everyone has time to do. 
• Ollie offers high-quality dog food formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. It’s just as complete-and-balanced as kibble and canned food, but super fresh and minimally processed, which preserves the nutrients so your dog can benefit from every bite. 
• The food is shipped to you exactly when your dog needs it—you don’t have to worry about reordering food, running out, or making a last-minute trip to the pet store. Ollie also tells you exactly how much your dog should eat daily to stay at (or get to) his optimum weight. The food is easy to store and serve, and my dog loved the taste.
• If you will be traveling, you can skip a delivery, or Ollie will even ship food to your travel destination (anywhere in the continental U.S.) if you change your delivery address before your cutoff date on your account page—talk about convenience!
• Trying Ollie is risk free since the company offers a 100 percent money-back guarantee. If your dog does not like the food, Ollie will completely refund your starter box.

Things to Consider

• Human-grade ingredients, small-batch cooking, and the ultra-fresh nature of fresh dog food makes this type of food expensive. The cost to feed a 40-pound dog is about $51 per week. 
• To buy Ollie food, you must sign up for an auto-delivery subscription (your credit card is charged automatically every month). If you don’t like commitment, a subscription-based fresh food might not be your best bet. However, you can choose to skip your next delivery or cancel your subscription at any time.
• Currently, Ollie only offers three recipes: chicken, beef, and lamb. The company’s turkey recipe is unavailable due to a national turkey shortage and supply chain disruption. Some other fresh dog food companies have four or more recipes to choose from.
• It’s important to note that Ollie recipes cannot be customized. Although your dog will receive specific amounts of food in the recipes you select, the recipes themselves cannot be changed. For instance, if your dog has an issue with one ingredient in a recipe, that ingredient cannot be removed. 

Subscribe today and get 60% off your first box!

Ollie Dog Food: Our Verdict

If you’re looking to try fresh dog food, Ollie is a solid choice. The company offers high-quality, healthy nutrition conveniently delivered to your door. Though the recipes themselves cannot be customized, you can choose from three different recipes with different meat protein sources and carbohydrates. Our dog had no issue transitioning over to the food and clearly enjoyed his role as taste tester, but it’s reassuring to know that Ollie will refund your starter box if your dog isn’t satisfied. Here’s hoping mealtime is as exciting for you and your pup as it was for us! 

The post Ollie Dog Food Review: Freshly Cooked and Delivered to Your Door appeared first on Vetstreet.

Doh Hawaiian shirts are a fun way to channel vacation vibes the whole year through. They’re perfect for backyard luaus or tiki parties, dining at a dog-friendly beach cafe, Hawaiian dog costumes for Halloween, or simply turning heads wherever you go.

To help your pup rock a tropical look, we rounded up some of the best Hawaiian shirts, dresses, and other tropical accessories for dogs.

Dog Hawaiian Shirts: Fun and Functional Fashion

Hawaiian shirts for dogs are a fun and stylish option for any day or a special day, like holidays or the family vacation photoshoot. They can also be practical, offering an extra layer of protection from the sun — which often comes in handy for hairless breeds, dogs with very short, fine coats, and light-colored dogs — or even warmth for dogs hanging out in chilly, high-AC environments. For function or fashion, Hawaiian shirts for dogs are always in style. 

A quick reminder: Dog fashion is fun, but not all dogs love to wear clothing. If your dog is new to wearing dog clothes, introduce them slowly, and never force your dog to wear anything that makes them feel uncomfortable. 

A Peek at Our Top Picks

With so many Hawaiian-themed dog clothing items to choose from, where do you begin? Here are some of our favorite Hawaiian apparel options for dogs, including Hawaiian shirts, dresses, and even matching styles for pet parents.

• Best Overall Hawaiian Shirt for Dogs: PeekABullies Hawaiian Dog Shirt 
• Best Matching Dog and Owner Shirts with Island Vibes: Dog Threads’ Après BBQ Shirt 
• Best Dog Hawaiian Dress: CuteBone Hawaiian-Print Dog Dress
• Best Matching Hawaiian Shirt and Dress for Dogs: Casual Canine Hawaiian Breeze Dog Dress and Camp Shirt for Dogs  
• Best Budget Hawaiian Shirt for Dogs: DealsByJuly Hawaiian Shirt for Dogs
• Best Personalized Dog Hawaiian Shirt for Humans: YesCustomGifts Custom Dog/Cat Face Hawaiian Shirt  

Plus, here are some extras to accent your pup’s island wear…or alternatives for dogs who just don’t like to wear outfits (no matter how adorable they are).

• Hawaiian-Print Bandana: Bluedog Pet Designs Hawaiian-Print Dog Bandanas
• Hawaiian-Print Dog Collar: Salty Paws Hawaiian-Print Dog Collar
• Hawaiian-Print Dog Leash: Blueberry Pet Essentials Bahamas Vacation Dog Leash
• Dog ID Tag with Island Flair: Two Tails Pet Company Pineapple Pet ID Tag

Best 6 Dog Hawaiian Shirts 

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Overall Hawaiian Shirt for Dogs

Our Pick:  PeekABullies Hawaiian Dog Shirt

PeekABullies’ collection of Hawaiian shirts for dogs offers lightweight and comfortable options just bursting with island style. Choose from a variety of fun tropical patterns in many different colors. These Hawaiian shirts come in a wide range of sizes from XS to 3XL, so it’s easy to find the perfect shirt to fit almost any dog. 

Highlights

• Portion of all sales donated to ASPCA and other animal rescues
• Affordable pricing ranges from $11.99 to $16.99
• Made in the USA

Things to Consider

• Returns and exchanges not accepted

Best Matching Dog and Owner Shirts with Island Vibes

Our Pick: Dog Threads’ Après BBQ Shirt 

Dog Threads makes it easy for you and your pup to leave a lasting impression with matching dog and owner shirts — Hawaiian style. These shirts are 100% cotton and come in a beautiful tropical print with sunset skies, leafy palms, and a rocky mountain backdrop. The button-up shirt for dogs is available in sizes that fit dogs weighing 5 to 110 pounds. For pet parents, there’s a slim-fit button-up shirt for men and a tie-front button-up shirt for women. 

Highlights

• Beautiful print with buttons on both dog and humans styles
• Free shipping and returns on all U.S. orders
• Made in the USA

Things to Consider

• Pricy; sets range from $42 to $75
• Unworn, unwashed, and unaltered items can be returned or exchanged, but only within 30 days of the ship date

Best Dog Hawaiian Dress

Our Pick: CuteBone Hawaiian-Print Dog Dress

If your small-sized girl dog is an island princess at heart, a Hawaiian-print dress is just the ticket. CuteBone’s ruffly layered Hawaiian dresses for dogs are designed for easy wearability and washability. The suspender-style straps make this dress easy to put on and take off. And the colorful prints are just adorable. Choose the cheerful pink pineapple print or the lush tropical floral print. Whether you’re headed to the dog park or a special event, your pup will be transported to an island paradise!   

Highlights

• Made from soft, lightweight, 100% cotton
• Stretchy suspender-style straps
• Available in XXS-L 
• Machine washable

Things to Consider

• Suitable for small-sized dogs only (Yorkie, Chihuahua, Maltese, Bichon, Shih Tzu)

Best Matching Hawaiian Shirt and Dress for Dogs

Our Pick: Casual Canine Hawaiian Breeze Dog Dress and Camp Shirt for Dogs  

If you have both a boy dog and a girl dog, or if your pup has a dog park soul mate, matching outfits are always a hit. Pair Casual Canine’s Hawaiian Breeze Camp Dog Shirt with the company’s matching Hawaiian Breeze Dog Dress for a look that will turn heads everywhere you go. Both the shirt and dress come in a broad range of sizes to accommodate different breeds, though availability varies.  

Highlights

• Versatile designs are easy to put on
• Shirt features easy velcro closures
• Dress has stretchy ruched bodice and adjustable shoulder ties
• Made from lightweight 100% polyester

Things to Consider

• Not a set; must buy shirt and dress separately
• Availability varies 

Best Budget Hawaiian Shirt for Dogs

Our Pick: DealsByJuly Hawaiian Shirt for Dogs

If you’re saving up for a real trip to the tropics, you’ll appreciate this extremely budget-friendly Hawaiian shirt option. The combo of oh-so-affordable prices and range of cute patterns is almost too good to be true. Shirts are available in multiple sizes and come in lots of attractive colors. At less than $10 a pop, you may want to treat your pup to a complete set! 

Highlights

• Incredibly affordable, coming in under $10 a shirt
• Made from polyester
• Available in multiple sizes

Things to Consider 

• Pricing varies according to size

Best Personalized Dog Hawaiian Shirt for Humans

Our Pick: YesCustomGifts Custom Dog/Cat Face Hawaiian Shirt

These shirts are designed for humans, but we just had to include them for all those proud-as-Hawaiian-punch pet parents! Now you can rock a tropical vibe and show the world just how much you love your pup with a Hawaiian-print shirt that features them front and center. YesCustomGifts offers one-of-a-kind tropical-themed shirts in a variety of adult sizes, with your dog’s (or your cat’s!) image custom printed right into the tropical pattern. Simply send a photo of your dog, and YesCustomGifts will design you a custom Hawaiian shirt featuring your furry best friend. 

Highlights

• Made from 95% polyester, 5% spandex for a comfortable fit
• Available in size S-XXXXXL
• Great for gifting

Things to Consider

• For best results, follow the seller’s guidelines when submitting photos of your dog

Alternatives to Hawaiian Shirts for Dogs

If Hawaiian attire is just too formal for your beach-ready pup, or if your dog just doesn’t do clothing or costumes, we’ve got you covered. Here are some fun, tropical-themed alternatives to Hawaiian shirts for dogs. As a bonus, they make great accessories to complement all of the island fashions above!

Hawaiian-Print Bandanna

Our Pick: Bluedog Pet Designs Hawaiian-Print Dog Bandannas 

A Hawaiian-print bandana is a comfortable accessory that gives on-the-go dogs just the right touch of tropical flair, without the need for cumbersome buttons or closures. Bluedog Pet Designs bandanas are easy to tie and come in more than 40 different Hawaiian prints. There’s even a print featuring a bunch of Hawaiian shirts, if you want to get really literal! The 100% cotton bandanas are available in two sizes that should fit most, if not all, breeds and sizes.

Highlights

• A portion of the proceeds benefit Assistance Dogs of Hawaii
• Handmade from 100% cotton
• Available in S/M (6.5 inches from top to tip) and M/L (10.5 inches from top to tip)

Things to Consider

• Returns not accepted

Hawaiian-Print Dog Collar

Our Pick: Salty Paws Hawaiian-Print Dog Collar

Every dog needs a collar, so why not choose one with island appeal? Salty Paws offers high-quality handmade dog collars in a variety of adorable Hawaiian prints. Each one is made from cotton fabric and heavy-duty polyester webbing and features a durable, curved side buckle with quick-release safety feature. 

Highlights

• Comfortable, adjustable, secure
• Collar has stainless D ring and tensile strength up 900 lbs
• Fast and free shipping
• Machine washable
• Matching leashes also available

Things to Consider

• At $24.95, the collars are a little pricey

Hawaiian-Print Dog Leash

Our Pick: Blueberry Pet Essentials Bahamas Vacation Dog Leash

Make your daily walks feel more like a leisurely stroll at a luxury island resort with this tropical leaf-print dog leash. This leash is made from lightweight polyester webbing with a lush leaf pattern, while metal fittings complete the look. Plus, bonus — it’s reasonably priced!

Highlights

• Made of durable polyester
• Good price point
• Handmade  in the USA
• Measures 4 feet x 1 inch

Things to Consider

• For dogs up to 90 pounds

Dog ID Tag with Island Flair

Our Pick: Two Tails Pet Company Pineapple Pet ID Tag

Who says ID tags can’t be fun and functional? Add some tropical bling to your pup’s collar with this adorable pineapple ID tag from Two Tails Pet Company. It’s both dazzling and durable. Plus, you can have it personalized with your pup’s name and your contact information (up to three lines of 14 characters each) for free with purchase, so your dog can always make their way back to you. 

Highlights

• Made from durable brass, gold plating, and hard enamel
• Laser engraving guaranteed not to rub off
• Made in the USA

Things to Consider

• A little pricey, at $23.99

Dog Hawaiian Shirt Buying Guide

Shopping for Hawaiian shirts for dogs is almost as much fun as planning your dream vacation. So have fun browsing all the colorful island-inspired styles. But as you narrow in on your top picks, be sure to keep these three tips in mind.

1. Hawaiian shirts and dresses for dogs come in lots of different styles and materials — from button-down camp shirts and strappy sundresses to stretchy tee-shirts and wraps. Pay attention to little details that can influence fit and wearability. E.g., Buttons will give you a very polished look, but velcro closures may be easier to fasten and unfasten. 

2. Most — but not all — dog fashions are designed to accommodate pups of various sizes, breeds, and body types. Always check the sizing chart to ensure the size you choose will fit your dog. Before buying, use a fabric tape measure to confirm:

• Back length – from the back of your dog’s neck to the base of their tail
• Chest circumference – the widest part of your dog’s chest
• Neck circumference – where your dog’s collar normally sits

If it looks like your dog is in between two sizes, it’s usually a good idea to go larger rather than smaller. When in doubt, reach out to the seller or manufacturer for advice. 

3. Finally, if your dog has a unique or extreme body type, look for Hawaiian shirts made from stretchy material or those with adjustable openings. Or consider one of the many Hawaiian shirt alternatives we listed. 

After all, island style is as much a state of mind as it is a fashion choice. Whether your dog is rocking a full Hawaiian-print ensemble or a pop of tropical color, they’re sure to bring a bit of paradise with them wherever they roam!

The post 6 Dog Hawaiian Shirts for Channeling Vacation Vibes appeared first on Vetstreet.

Fresh dog food is often touted as a healthier, tastier alternative to commercial kibble and canned dog food. If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of fresh dog food, here’s everything you need to know before making the switch.

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Our Top Picks:

• The Farmer’s Dog
• Spot & Tango
• The Pets Table
• JustFoodForDogs
• PetPlate
• Ollie

Best Fresh Dog Food Delivery Services and Brands

Whether you’re looking for fresh dog food that will please your dog’s picky palate or simply want your pet to enjoy the health benefits of fresh fare, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are our top picks for the best fresh dog food brands:

The Farmer’s Dog

Get 50% off your first box of fresh dog food (valid for new customers only).

With The Farmer’s Dog, you not only get high-quality, protein-rich fresh dog food, you get a diet that’s personalized to your dog’s needs. When you subscribe to The Farmer’s Dog, you answer a questionnaire to create an incredibly detailed profile of your pet that captures everything from health concerns and food preferences to snacking habits and weight goals. Based on your answers, The Farmer’s Dog will suggest a meal plan personalized to your dog’s unique needs and characteristics. Your meal recommendations could include up to four different recipes — turkey, beef, pork, or chicken. You can choose up to three different recipes per shipment, or stick with one that your dog loves.

The Farmer’s Dog offers healthy, tasty recipes dogs love, made with human-grade ingredients and without preservatives or by-products. Every recipe is gently cooked in USDA-inspected kitchens, then flash-frozen to preserve maximum nutrients. The food arrives individually portioned, vacuum-sealed, and packed with dry ice in eco-friendly packaging. And if you’re a new customer, you can use this link to get 50% off your first box — all of which puts The Farmer’s Dog at the front of the pack in our book.

Highlights:

• Made with human-grade ingredients 
• Prepared in USDA-inspected kitchens
• Since it’s freshly cooked, there’s no high-heat processing
• Contains no by-products or preservatives
• Recipes are formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists
• Pre-portioned meals shipped on a schedule according to your dog’s size, needs, and preferences

Things to Consider:

• Must sign up for a subscription 
• Can’t customize recipes, though the plan is customized based on individual preferences, health concerns, breed, size, age, and lifestyle
• Must register to view the recipes and ingredients on the website

Spot & Tango

Use this link to save 50% off your two-week trial with code VETSTREET50

Spot & Tango’s palate-pleasing Original Fresh recipes bring all the elements you seek in a healthy, great-tasting dining experience directly to your dog’s food bowl. Well, delivered direct to your doorstep…you take it from there.

Every meal is made using nutritious, whole ingredients you can easily recognize–lean proteins, fresh fruits and veggies, and high-quality carbohydrates–all sourced from local farms and cooked in small batches to guarantee healthy, well-balanced meals for your pup.

Spot & Tango offers three delectable Original Fresh recipes, developed in partnership with animal nutritionists for optimal balance and benefits: Turkey & Red Quinoa, Beef & Millet, and Lamb & Brown Rice.

Not sure which is best for your pet? No worries. Simply register and enter your dog’s details, and Spot & Tango calculates the perfect customized meal plan for your dog based on their age, weight, breed, and health goals.

The price per package varies according to your dog’s weight and activity level and the meal selection(s) you choose. For example, the Turkey & Red Quinoa fresh recipe is the most affordable option based on a 25-pound purebred Spaniel who is fairly active at $2.28 per meal. It’s also the most popular recipe, according to the brand.

Spot & Tango recipes are designed to appeal to even the pickiest palates, as well as a variety of health and dietary needs. Two of the three Original Fresh recipes are grain-free (Turkey & Quinoa and Beef & Millet), while the Lamb & Brown Rice recipe is hypoallergenic and contains healthy grains. And the Beef & Millet recipe has a reputation for appealing to picky eaters.

Best of all is the brand’s 100% Happy Pup Guarantee. If your dog doesn’t love their Original Fresh recipes, Spot & Tango will give you your money back.

Highlights

• Made with 100% fresh, whole ingredients you can actually recognize in your dog’s bowl.
• Contain no meat by-products, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives.
• Recipes are formulated for all life stages by a team of veterinary nutritionists.
• Each recipe is complete and balanced for both puppies and adults according to AAFCO’s nutritional standards.
• Each meal is gently cooked in small batches in a USDA kitchen for nutritional integrity. 
• No gluten, soy, wheat, or corn in any of the recipes.
• Recipe info, ingredients, and nutritional analysis are available on the Spot & Tango website. 

Things to Consider

• Must store the food in your refrigerator or freezer.
• Pet parents must sign up for a meal subscription. 
• The recipes cannot be adjusted, but three recipe options are personalized to your dog’s needs.

The Pets Table

Imagine being able to personalize your dog’s food so they eat a healthy, tasty meal every single time. The Pets Table is a subscription-based service that offers fresh human-grade food without any preservatives or fillers. Developed in conjunction with veterinarians, Sara Wilson, Associate Director or Veterinary Nutrition, is on staff at The Pets Table. She is only one of 100 Board-Certified Veterinarian Nutritionists in the USA.

Fresh options include from chicken casserole with green beans, beef stew with carrots, or turkey casserole with broccoli.On arrival, freeze or refrigerate your delivery. If feeding, thaw a packet of The Pets Table fresh food in your refrigerator for 12 hours prior to feeding. Cut the top of the packet when ready to serve, squeeze out the daily portion into your dog’s bowl, and store the remainder in the refrigerator.

Touted as their ‘best tasting recipe,’ each fresh meal supports your dog’s gut health, contributes to healthy skin and coat, and supports their immune system. Each recipe meets or exceeds the AAFCO minimum requirements for protein.

Highlights

• The Pets Table is brought to pet parents by Hello Fresh
• Made with human-grade ingredients
• Ability to take a quiz on the website to determine your dog’s best options
• Ability to postpone or skip a box
• Real ingredients you can see and pronounce

Things to Consider

• Each fresh recipe is grain-free
• Produced in a facility that processes eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, sesame, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, and wheat.

JustFoodForDogs

JustFoodForDogs offers a wide variety of fresh dog food (and cat food, too). You can choose from fresh-frozen meals, PantryFresh (self-stable fresh food), prescription diets, custom meals for dogs with food allergies or other special needs, and DIY Homemade kits (recipes and nutrient blends to make your own dog food at home). The fresh-frozen line features seven delicious recipes, including Beef & Russet Potato and Venison & Squash. The PantryFresh line features eight recipes, including specialized formulas, such as Joint & Skin Support. All recipe details, including the ingredients and nutritional analysis, are listed on the JustFoodForDogs website. 

JustFoodForDogs can be ordered online and shipped to your home (auto-ship is available, but not required). You can also purchase meals made with human-edible ingredients from one of JustFoodForDogs’ USDA-inspected kitchens or at one of the company’s pantries, located inside select veterinary clinics and pet stores.

If you aren’t sure which formula your dog will like best, start with the JustFoodForDogs variety packs. Whether you have a puppy, a dog with a sensitive tummy, or any size or type of dog, a variety pack is made with your pup in mind. Take 50 percent off your first variety box and enjoy the savings while your dog enjoys his tasty meals.

Highlights

• Made with premium ingredients sourced from restaurant suppliers
• Minimally processed to retain nutrients
• Wide variety of recipes and types of food
• Customized recipes available, including prescription recipes
• Vet-formulated recipes promote proper immune system health
• Convenient auto-delivery is available, but not required

Things to Consider

• Feeding amounts vary depending on the recipe and the type of food

PetPlate

Subscription-based PetPlate offers four fresh dog food recipes — Chompin’ Chicken, Barkin’ Beef, Tail Waggin’ Turkey, and Lip Lickin’ Lamb. All recipe information, including the ingredients and nutritional analysis, can be found on the PetPlate website. You can even get a quick cost estimate based on a few general details about your pet without having to register. Made with human-grade ingredients, PetPlate fresh dog food is minimally processed and gently cooked in USDA-inspected facilities, then frozen for shipping. 

Though most fresh dog foods come in vacuum-sealed packaging, PetPlate comes in small, recyclable, plastic tubs with lids, which means you don’t have to transfer the food to a separate container after opening it. The company also offers two different meal plan options — a Full Plan if you want to feed your dog a 100% fresh-cooked diet, or a less-expensive, scaled-down Topper Plan, which provides enough fresh food to mix in with your pet’s current diet.

Highlights

• Vet-designed recipes made with real ingredients in human-grade kitchens
• Formulated to promote healthy weight, shiny coat, allergy relief, more energy
• Minimally processed; contains no by-products or preservatives
• Conveniently packaged in recyclable plastic tubs with lids 
• 100% money-back guarantee on your first order

Things to Consider

• Must sign up for a subscription 
• Recipes can’t be customized

Ollie

Subscribe today and get 60% off your first box!

Ollie offers four fresh dog food recipes (beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb) made with human-grade ingredients. All recipe details, including full ingredient list and nutritional analysis, are listed at myollie.com. Ollie fresh dog food is made without by-products, fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives. After being gently cooked to preserve nutrients, the food is frozen into bricks and vacuum-sealed in plastic with peel-off tops. The first shipment comes with a reusable plastic “pup-tainer” and lid to help keep thawed food fresh, plus a handy serving scoop for easier feeding. If your pup turns their nose up at any of the recipes, Ollie will send a different recipe or offer a refund.

Subscription-based Ollie is home delivered on a schedule that is tailored to your dog’s needs and unique meal plan. If you will be traveling during an upcoming shipment, Ollie can send the food to your temporary destination (anywhere in the continental United States) with advance notice. You can also opt to pause your delivery until you return home.

Highlights

• Made with human-grade ingredients gently cooked in small batches
• 100% real food, no by-products, fillers preservatives, or artificial flavors
• Recipes are formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist 
• Starter pack comes with bonus pup-tainer and scoop
• 100% money-back guarantee

Things to Consider

• Must sign up for a subscription 
• Recipes can’t be customized

What Is Fresh Dog Food?

Fresh dog food is typically made with simple, whole-food ingredients, like fresh meat, vegetables, and grains. These are gently cooked and then frozen to maintain peak freshness. Some pet stores sell fresh dog food, but many manufacturers offer subscription and delivery services, so your dog’s fresh food can be shipped right to your doorstep. To serve, pet parents simply thaw the pre-portioned food packet in the refrigerator then feed it to their dog. The label will reveal how long a thawed package lasts in the fridge — usually three to five days. 

Most fresh dog foods are made from wholesome, high-quality ingredients that are minimally processed and contain no by-products or preservatives. As a result, fresh dog food is generally better for your pup because it retains more nutrients and health-boosting benefits from its ingredients. Fresh dog food also tends to be tastier than most commercial kibble and canned foods, making it a great choice for picky eaters. 

Fresh dog food also tends to be pricier than other types of dog food. Most fresh dog food companies are subscription-based, meaning you’re required to sign up and commit to regular, automatic shipments. Depending on the size of your dog, you might need a good amount of freezer space to store a few weeks’ worth of fresh dog food. Companies generally set up a shipping schedule that works well for you and your dog, and you can usually pause or cancel shipments if you will be out of town. 

What Is Human-Grade Dog Food?

You may see the phrase “human-grade” proudly featured on some fresh dog food packaging. That definitely sounds appealing, but what does it really mean? In order to market dog food as human grade, the ingredients, manufacturing processes, and finished product must meet the same high quality and safety standards that govern food made for people.

Any dog food that does not meet these higher human-grade standards is deemed “feed grade.” That means it is suitable to be fed to animals, but could contain ingredients like bone meal or meat meal that are not approved for human consumption.

Where and how dog food is made also determines whether it is human-grade or feed-grade. For example, The Farmer’s Dog prepares its fresh dog food recipes in kitchens that meet all USDA and FDA safety and quality standards for human food. So not only can you be sure your dog is enjoying food made from ingredients you would eat yourself, you can rest easy knowing that it’s cooked and processed according to the good manufacturing practices established for human-edible foods.

All that said, fresh dog foods are still intended for dogs, not humans, and must say so on the label.

Fresh Dog Food: What to Look For

Most fresh dog foods have a lot in common when it comes to quality and ingredients. But each brand offers slightly different recipes, packaging, and delivery options. So be sure to shop around to find the fresh food diet that’s perfect for your dog…and convenient for you.

Start by checking out the recipes listed on the company’s website to see if you spot any ingredients that are a problem for your pet. In most cases, you can’t remove an ingredient from the recipe if your dog is allergic to it or flat out doesn’t like it. Though one company, JustFoodForDogs, does offer custom fresh dog food formulations, including prescription diets. 

All dog foods, whether commercial or fresh, should be formulated to meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which ensures the food is nutritionally complete and balanced. Foods that meet AAFCO standards for “maintenance” are suitable for adult dogs. If you have a puppy, look for fresh dog food that meets the AAFCO standards for “growth” or “all life stages,” both of which would provide balanced nutrition to support your pup.

Fresh Dog Food: Tips and Advice

Talk to your veterinarian before making the switch to fresh dog food to find out if your dog has any special dietary needs. As with any food change, it’s best to gradually introduce the new food by mixing it with your dog’s previous food. This will help avoid any stomach upset, which can happen if you abruptly change your dog’s food to something new.

Start with 25% fresh food and 75% old food for a few days, then move on to a 50/50 mix for a few more days. Finally, mix 75% new food with 25% old food before feeding 100% new food. The entire transition process should take about a week. 

Fresh dog food contains no preservatives, so it must be stored in the freezer until you are ready to serve it. Thaw one day’s worth of food at a time in the refrigerator overnight (or follow the specific instructions given by the company). Once opened, fresh dog food lasts anywhere from three to five days in the fridge (check your food packaging or instructions to find out how long yours lasts after opening).

The post Best Fresh Dog Food: 5 Options to Consider appeared first on Vetstreet.

Choosing the Best Cat Litter Box Supplies 

When it comes to helping your cat adopt good bathroom habits, the two most important purchases are the litter box and the litter that goes inside it. If your cat doesn’t like their box or litter, they might decide to go outside the box—something you want to avoid at all costs. You should have one litter box per cat in the house, plus one additional box. That means a household of two cats should have a total of three litter boxes.

Types of Litter Boxes

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Litter boxes come in a broad variety of sizes and styles. Covered litter boxes are helpful in keeping litter from being scattered outside the box, but they also trap smells inside—a feature humans like, but most cats do not. If a cat finds their litter box too smelly, they might decide not to use it. But many cats enjoy the privacy afforded by a covered box, so keep your box extra clean to encourage consistent habits.

Uncovered litter boxes are a popular option, as most cats will happily use them. Some litter boxes, like the Litter-Robot 4 by Whisker, are even automated to make litter chores nearly hands-free. These automatic, self-cleaning litterboxes use electronic mechanisms to scoop and clean them after your cat goes to the bathroom. 

Regardless of the style of box you choose, make sure it’s big enough for your cat to comfortably use. A litter box should be at least as long as the length of your cat’s body from nose to tail. 

Types of Cat Litter

You’ll find many different types of cat litter, including clumping clay litter, silica gel litter, and litter made from pine, wheat, corn, grass, walnut shells, and paper. In general, most cats prefer a soft, fine-particle litter like clumping clay. It’s always a good idea to choose unscented cat litter. Perfumes intended to cover up litter box odors can be irritating to a cat’s sensitive nose and may cause litter refusal. 

Cat Litter Box Supplies: 9 Essentials We Love

Here are some must-have litter box supplies—from the absolutely essential to extras so helpful, you won’t want to live without them. 

• Litter boxes (at least one per cat, plus one more)
• Cat litter
• Litter scoops
• Litter box mats (optional)
• Litter box liners (optional)

All cats are individuals with different preferences, but the vast majority of cats like a large, uncovered litter box and an unscented, soft, clumping cat litter. If your cat doesn’t seem to like these, a bit of trial and error may be in order. Try two different litters or two different style boxes and see if your cat has a preference.

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Overall Litter Box

Our pick: Litter-Robot 4 by Whisker

Shop now and save $50 off any Litter-Robot purchase

This self-cleaning, automatic litter box tops our list because it handles so many litter box chores, you don’t need to waste your time and money on litter box supplies and upkeep.

The innovative Litter-Robot 4 has all the must-have automated features that made the original Litter-Robot such a hit, including a patented sifting system that automatically separates your cat’s waste from the clean litter without you having to lift a finger. In addition, this upgraded model has plenty of high-tech improvements, like smart sensors that detect when your cat is using the litter box, to ensure their safety. Other new features include a WhisperQuiet cleaning cycle, plus an enlarged waste drawer and optional odor neutralizing system to ensure your home stays fresher longer between litter changes.

Highlights

• Automatically removes waste without clogging or jamming
• Sensors detect and deposit solid waste in drawer for easy cleanup
• Whisker app tracks usage, litter levels, and when it’s time to empty
• Works well with almost any clumping or scoopable litter
• Suitable for up to 4 cats

Things to Consider: 

• At over $600, it’s a big investment
• Some cats may need time to get comfortable using a self-cleaning litterbox

Best Litter Box (Uncovered)

Our pick: Smart Paws Cat Litter Box

Many cats like uncovered litter boxes because they don’t trap smells inside. But the downside is that cats are more likely to fling litter outside of an uncovered box when digging inside. The high walls of the Smart Paws cat litter box help keep litter inside, while the lower entrance ensures cats can enter and exit the box easily.

Highlights 

• High sides keep litter inside the box.
• Low entrance makes it easy for cats to use.
• Simple design is easy to clean.

Things to Consider 

• Enthusiastic diggers may still fling litter outside the box.

Best Smart Litter Box Monitor

Our pick: Petivity Smart Litter Box Monitor

Imagine being able to access real insights about your cat’s weight and behavior every time they use the litter box. Petivity helps give cats a voice by empowering pet parents to manage their cat’s health from home. Place your cat’s litter box atop the Petivity unit. In conjunction with the Petivity app, you will receive alerts that may help indicate a health issue to discuss with your veterinarian.

Highlights

• Uses Artificial Intelligence technology to develop a profile for each cat in your household
• Tracks important information in the free app
• Receive information about your cat’s weight and daily visits to the litter box each day
• Works with multiple cats without the need for a special collar or chip

Things to Consider

• Some cats may prefer a slow integration of the Petivity into their routine
• A bit on the pricey side for some budgets
• The Petivity Smart Litter Box Monitor pairs with the Petivity app, which is available for Android 10 or higher, and iPhone running iOS14 or higher

Best Litter Box (Covered)

Our pick: Petmate Booda Dome Clean Step Litter Box

Some cats prefer a covered box, which affords privacy and ensures the cat cannot be ambushed by another cat while using the box. Petmate’s Booda Dome Clean Step Litter Box keeps litter inside the box and cuts down on litter odor in your home. The grooved steps that lead to and from the main litter box area capture litter from your cat’s paws, so they don’t track it outside the box and throughout your home. 

Highlights 

• Covered box with charcoal filter contains litter odors.
• Grooved clean steps prevent litter tracking.
• Large, roomy size. 

Things to Consider 

• Some cats do not like the smells that become trapped inside a covered box.
• Shape and dimensions may make it harder to clean than a rectangular box. 

Best Cat Litter Subscription Service 

Our pick: Kitty Poo Club

For cat owners who want to make litter box maintenance as streamlined as possible, a monthly cat litter subscription service might be just the ticket. After signing up, you’ll receive a bag of litter shipped to you on a recurring schedule—so you never have to worry about running out or needing to haul heavy cat litter from the store. The Kitty Poo Club goes one step further, sending a pre-filled, leak-proof cardboard litter box that you can recycle monthly when your new shipment arrives. You’ll never have to scrub a litter box again! 

Highlights

• Choose from five litter types: diatomite, clay, silica, fine-grain, or organic soy.
• Convenient—never run out of litter.
• Disposable cat litter box—no need to scrub.
• Dome available as an add-on.
• No-risk guarantee. 

Things to Consider

• Limited litter selection, but you can purchase the litter box only and use your own litter if preferred.
• More expensive than buying litter without a subscription. 

Best Cat Litter

Our pick: Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter

Most cats like a soft clumping litter that doesn’t contain perfumes, which can overwhelm a cat’s ultra-sensitive nose. Although Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter contains no perfumes or dyes, it fights odors with scent-free activated charcoal. The litter has strong clumping action, and the low-dust formula won’t irritate your cat’s respiratory tract.  

Highlights

• Unscented litter won’t bother a cat’s nose.
• Activated charcoal fights odors.
• Strong clumping action.
• 10-day odor control guarantee.

Things to Consider

• Soft litter can be tracked outside the box.
• Clumps cannot be flushed. 

Best Litter Box Scoop

Our pick: DurAnimals DuraScoop 

After you choose a litter box and cat litter, the next most important tool in your litter box cleaning arsenal is the litter box scoop. The DurAnimals DuraScoop is made from sturdy aluminum and has a soft, ergonomic handle. This large scoop is durable and effective, making short work of litter box scooping duties. This is an essential as one of your cat litter box supplies.

Highlights

• Durable aluminum scoop is made to last.
• Textured grip for easy handling.
• Large size.

Things to Consider

• Does not come with a cover or storage container.

Best Litter Box Mat

Our pick: iPrimio Cat Litter Trapper EZ Clean Mat

A cat litter box mat can help capture litter stuck to your cat’s paws so it’s not tracked throughout the house. The iPrimio Cat Litter Trapper EZ Clean Mat is made with two layers. The top layer looks like a honeycomb with large holes that snag stray litter, trapping it between the two layers. Peel back the top layer to dump the dropped litter into the trash or back into the litter box. 

Highlights

• Dual-layered design traps and holds litter.
• Water repellent with a plastic bottom layer so urine won’t leak through. 
• Easy to clean.
• Extra-large size. 

Things to Consider

• May be difficult to empty litter from between layers.

Best Litter Box Liners

Our pick: Jonny Cat Heavy Duty Jumbo Litter Box Liners

Cat litter box liners make cleanup easier when it’s time to change out all the litter. Simply lift the bag and tie it closed, then throw it away. The litter box itself remains clean. Jonny Cat Heavy Duty Jumbo Litter Box Liners are extra thick to withstand a cat’s digging and scratching in the box. Plus, they have a drawstring so you can easily and securely close the bag when it’s time to toss out the litter. The extra-large size fits almost any litter box. 

Highlights

• Made from heavy-duty, tear resistant plastic.
• Thick plastic prevents cuts down on litter box cleanup.
• Easy-to-close drawstring. 
• Jumbo size fits most litter boxes.

Things to Consider

• Aggressive scratchers may be able to pierce the liner.
• May not fit all litter boxes.

How Often Should You Clean a Litter Box?

While these recommendations can help make maintaining a clean bathroom easier, there’s no such thing as a hands-off approach to litter boxes (though a Kitty Poo Club subscription comes pretty close!). Here are some helpful tips to ensure you’re holding up your end of the kitty litter cleaning conundrum.  

The key to making sure your cat uses their box is keeping it as clean as possible. No one likes using a dirty bathroom—including your cat! Scoop solids at least once daily (two or three times a day is better). Once a week, dump out all the litter and replace it with fresh litter.

Monthly, dump the litter and scrub the box well using hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue. You might need to scrub the box weekly, depending on the type of litter you use and your cat’s bathroom habits. A heavy-duty litter box liner can eliminate the need to scrub out the box.

Simply replace the liner and litter weekly. If you go the recyclable litter box route, maintain your litter as directed, then discard the litter and recycle the box when your new shipment arrives.

The post Cat Litter Box Supplies: 9 Essentials We Love appeared first on Vetstreet.

Dog bowls come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and designs. Some are even ingeniously crafted to encourage slower eating or make travel easier. If you’re in the market for a new bowl for your dog, this sea of options can feel overwhelming. Read on to find some of the best dog bowls available — ones that truly stand out from the crowd — and learn how to choose the best one for you and your dog.

Choosing the Best Dog Bowl for Your Pup

Dog bowls are a necessity, but how do you know which ones are right for your dog? Keep these points in mind when shopping for dog bowls:

Size: Small dogs can drink out of almost any size bowl, though the tiniest toy dog might prefer a smaller bowl with lower sides. Large dogs and giant breeds need the biggest bowl you can find. (These are also nice if you have more than one dog.) If you’re buying bowls for a puppy, consider buying the size you’ll need when your pup is fully grown; otherwise, you’ll be shopping again in a few months.

Material: This matters more than you think. Plastic dog bowls are usually the most affordable, but they are also the least durable. Dogs can easily knock over lightweight plastic bowls. Over time, plastic can become warped, cracked, and even chewed up. Plastic dog bowls are also the least sanitary option because bacteria can grow within tiny scratches on the bowl’s surface. Ceramic dog bowls are more stable and sanitary than plastic, but ceramic is heavy and it can chip or crack if dropped. Bowls made of stainless steel are among the best options. Stainless steel bowls are lightweight, yet extremely durable. They’re also easy to clean and don’t harbor bacteria.  

Appearance: Your dog’s bowl might be in your kitchen or living room, so you may be looking for something that’s not just functional, but stylish, too. Though this consideration is probably the least important, cute dog bowls or bowls that coordinate with your décor are an added bonus.

Extra features: Some bowls are designed to help your dog eat more slowly or more comfortably, and some are ideal for traveling, hiking, or camping. Automatic dog feeders ensure your pup never goes hungry, even if you’ll be home a little late.

How We Ranked Our Favorite Dog Bowls

When choosing the best dog bowls, we considered the bowl’s material (plastic, ceramic, or stainless steel), ease of cleaning, and durability.

Plastic dog bowls ranked higher if they were made from BPA-free materials, but stainless steel dog bowls generally ranked higher than plastic. Ceramic is also a good choice, though their physical weight makes them hard for some people to handle, and they are less durable than stainless steel as they can crack or break. 

Because crowdsourcing opinions is always helpful, we also looked at consumer reviews to ensure the majority of those who purchased the product were happy with it. Price point was another consideration. If two bowls otherwise ranked closely, a lower price tipped the bowl into the winner’s circle. 

8 Best Dog Bowls to Consider

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Our Picks

• Best Automatic Dog Feeder: Petlibro Granary Automatic Pet Feeder
• Best Slow Feeder Dog Bowl: Outward Hound Fun Feeder
• Best Elevated Dog Bowl: Neater Feeder Express Elevated Bowls
• Best Ceramic Dog Bowl: Rae Dunn by Magenta Stoneware Medium Dog Bowl
• Best Dog Bowl for Large Dogs: Yeti Boomer Dog Bowl
• Best Dog Bowl for Small Dogs: Dogit Double Diner Stainless Steel Dog Bowls
• Best Personalized Dog Bowl: Wild One Personalized Bowl
• Best Travel Dog Bowl: Prima Pets Collapsible Travel Bowl with Carabiner

Best Automatic Dog Feeder 

Our pick: Petlibro Granary Automatic Pet Feeder

Automatic dog feeders are helpful for dogs that eat small, frequent meals, or for pet owners who work long hours outside the home. You also can sleep in on the weekends knowing your dog won’t be pestering you for their breakfast. Depending on the size of your dog, the Petlibro Granary Automatic Pet Feeder holds one to six kibble meals. It keeps food fresh, protecting it from moisture and insects. The sanitary stainless steel bowl is detachable and easy to clean. You can program specific meal times or use the manual feeding button to feed on demand. And there’s even a way to record a 10-second personalized voice message to let your pet know when the meal is served.

Highlights:

• Two sizes: 3-liter capacity (black) and 5-liter capacity (white)
• Sanitary stainless steel bowl
• Easy-to-read LED display
• Dual power supply (USB-C adapter or three alkaline D batteries)
• Infrared sensor stops dispensing food if food outlet becomes blocked

Things to Consider: 

• Expensive ($80-$90)
• Not recommended for kibble larger than .6 inches in diameter
• Must be taken apart to clean

Best Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

Our pick: Outward Hound Fun Feeder

Dog bowls for fast eaters are designed to force dogs to eat at a slower, safer pace. Gulping down food too quickly can cause dogs to suffer from digestive issues like gas and regurgitation. Dogs who eat too fast may not feel full and end up begging for more food, which can lead to obesity. Special ridges in the Outward Hound Fun Feeder slow feeder dog bowl make dogs slowly forage to get the kibble out. The BPA-free plastic bowl is top-rack dishwasher safe. 

Highlights: 

• Comes in three sizes (small/tiny, medium/mini, and large/regular) and a variety of colors
• Non-slip base
• BPA-free plastic 

Things to Consider: 

• May be hard to clean by hand
• Plastic is less sanitary and durable than stainless steel

Best Elevated Dog Bowl

Our pick: Neater Feeder Express Elevated Bowls

Elevated dog bowls, also called raised dog bowls, make mealtime easier because dogs don’t have to stoop down and hunch their necks to eat and drink. Elevated dog bowls can also cut down on dropped food and drips on the floor. The Neater Feeder’s removable stainless steel bowls are easy to clean and refill. Dropped kibble is trapped inside the feeding compartment, and sloshed water drains into a catch basin. The medium/large size accommodates an optional Neater Pet Brands slow feed bowl. All parts of the feeder are dishwasher safe. 

Note: Some studies have suggested that elevated dog bowls may contribute to bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with air and twists in on itself. Talk to your veterinarian before choosing raised dog bowls for your dog. 

Highlights: 

• Comes in two sizes (small and medium/large) and two colors (cappuccino and gunmetal)
• Sanitary stainless steel bowls
• Contains messes

Things to Consider: 

• Expensive ($46.99)
• Must be taken apart to clean

Best Ceramic Dog Bowl

Our pick: Rae Dunn by Magenta Stoneware Medium Dog Bowl 

Ceramic dog bowls are heavy, so they’re great for dogs who tend to push their bowls around. Ceramic is also easy to clean and more sanitary than plastic. Rae Dunn by Magenta Stoneware Medium Dog bowls are also as cute as they are functional, featuring cute sayings like “Good dog,” “Gulp,” “Slurp,” and “Paws Off.”

Highlights: 

• 5-cup capacity
• Dishwasher and microwave safe 

Things to Consider: 

• Heavy
• Stoneware can break or chip if dropped or banged

Best Dog Bowl for Large Dogs

Our pick: Yeti Boomer Dog Bowl

Large dog bowls are essential if you have a large or giant dog breed, but they can also work well for smaller dogs or multi-dog households. Like Yeti’s high-quality drinkware, the brand’s Boomer Dog Bowl is made from double-wall, non-insulated stainless steel that’s dishwasher safe, making it durable and easy to clean. The bowl holds 64 ounces of water and features a non-slip ring on the bottom so it stays put. The stylish Boomer bowl is available in nine colors.  

Highlights: 

• Holds 64 ounces of water
• Made of durable and sanitary stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe
• Non-slip grip
• Attractive design

Things to Consider: 

• Expensive ($50)
• May rust over time

Best Dog Bowl for Small Dogs

Our pick: Dogit Double Diner Stainless Steel Dog Bowls

Small dog bowls with lower sides are easier for tiny dogs to access. Perfect for toy breeds and small dogs, the Dogit Double Diner Stainless Steel Dog Bowl Set is two bowls in one. This attractive set features a small footprint, so it’s compact. And bowls stay put, thanks to non-slip rubber feet. The stainless steel bowls are removable and dishwasher safe.

Highlights: 

• Sanitary stainless steel bowls are dishwasher safe
• Non-slip base
• Available in four colors (pink, blue, black, and white)

Things to Consider: 

• Bowls hold a very small volume (5.4 ounces and 11.8 ounces)

Best Personalized Dog Bowl

Our pick: ​​Wild One Personalized Bowl

Made of food-grade stainless steel, this sturdy yet stylish dog bowl can be personalized with your choice of words and cute emojis like chicken legs and paw prints. Happy customers report that the bowls don’t slide around, thanks to a non-slip silicone base, and find that they blend in nicely with their home decor, rather than being an eyesore.

Highlights:

• Food-grade stainless steel bowl 
• Available in three colors: black, tan and spruce
• Dishwasher safe
• Non-slip silicone base
• 4-cup capacity

Things to Consider:

• Personalization is an additional $10 and can add up to 3 days to standard shipping times
• There is a limit of up to 26 characters
• Personalized bowls can’t be exchanged or returned

Best Travel Dog Bowl

Our pick: Prima Pets Collapsible Travel Bowl with Carabiner

A travel dog bowl is great for long car rides, camping trips, hiking, or playtime at the dog park. The lightweight Prima Pets Collapsible Travel Bowl collapses down into a small disc and even comes with its own carabiner, so you can clip it to your belt or bag while out and about. This accordion-style bowl made from food-grade silicone is top-rack dishwasher safe. It comes in 1.5-cup and 5-cup capacities and four colors (blue, purple, pink, and grey). 

Highlights: 

• Collapsible
• Lightweight
• Dishwasher safe

Things to Consider: 

• Thin silicone may tear if handled too roughly

Dog Bowl Hygiene Tips

Clean your dog’s bowls properly to help them last longer and ensure they don’t harbor dangerous bacteria and mold. Wash food bowls and water bowls daily using hot, soapy water. Then thoroughly rinse and dry the bowls with a soft kitchen towel, or allow them to air dry. Alternatively, you can place bowls in your dishwasher (check first to make sure the bowls are labeled dishwasher safe). For automatic feeders, wash the bowl daily and clean all washable components according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

The post 8 Best Dog Bowls for Every Need appeared first on Vetstreet.

What Is a Pet Water Fountain?

Our Top Picks:

• Petlibro Capsule Automatic Pet Water Fountain
• Petlibro Stainless Steel Pet Water Fountain
• Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain by PetSafe
• Drinkwell Seascape Ceramic Dog & Cat Fountain
• Catit Flower Fountain
• Petmate Deluxe Fresh Flow

A pet water fountain is an electric device that uses circulating pumps and filters to keep your pet’s water fresh and clean. Some pets, especially cats, prefer drinking running water (it’s why many pets are drawn to sink faucets, showers, sprinklers, and other water sources). For dogs or cats that don’t drink enough water, especially in hot weather, introducing a pet water fountain might encourage them to drink more. Pets with certain health issues like urinary-tract disease or kidney disease also benefit from staying well hydrated. 

Shopping for a Pet Water Fountain: What to Look For

Pet water fountains come in many different sizes, styles and price points, with varying levels of sound and water movement to appeal to pets of all sizes and drinking preferences. When shopping for a pet water fountain, consider the following:

Material: Pet water fountains may be plastic, ceramic, or stainless steel. Plastic is lightweight and generally less expensive than ceramic or stainless steel, but plastic can be irritating to some pets’ skin, and this porous material can harbor bacteria. If your pet has sensitive skin or suffers from facial acne, consider a stainless steel or ceramic model.

Size: Smaller fountains are sufficient for one or two cats or small dogs. If you have larger dogs, or more than two pets, look for a fountain with a larger water capacity and/or drinking reservoir. 

Water movement: Fountains may feature a water stream (great for pets that like to drink out of a sink faucet), water bubbler, and/or multiple water flow options. Some are even adjustable so you can fine-tune them to your pet’s preferences.  

Sound: Pet water fountains use pumps to circulate water. Some fountains are louder than others, either due to the pump or the splashing sound of the water (common with fountains that feature water streams). If you or your pet are noise-sensitive, look for a quiet model. 

Maintenance: All pet water fountains require routine cleaning and maintenance to keep them sanitary and working properly. Look for fountains that are easier to clean, with easy-to-clean parts.

Best Pet Water Fountain: 6 Options to Consider

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Petlibro Capsule Automatic Pet Water Fountain

The Petlibro Capsule offers a wide water reservoir plus two water flow options: stream and bubbling fountain. The unique translucent design lets you easily see when the water level drops so you can fill it up. The filter contains activated carbon to remove bad tastes and odors, and ion exchange resin to soften the water. This fountain is virtually silent, so it’s great for noise-sensitive individuals. 

Highlights

• 2-liter water capacity
• Adjustable flow
• Whisper quiet
• BPA-free plastic
• Dishwasher safe

Things to Consider

• May be too small for large dogs or multi-pet households
• High filter-replacement frequency (every two to four weeks)
• Plastic may cause skin irritation in sensitive animals

Petlibro Stainless Steel Pet Water Fountain

The Petlibro Stainless Steel Pet Water Fountain’s adjustable-flow spout allows you to make the stream bigger or smaller, and the design prevents splashing. Stainless steel pet water fountains are both durable and sanitary, resisting more bacteria growth than plastic (1). The Petlibro fountain is also easy to clean—all parts other than the pump and filters are dishwasher safe. Using silent pump technology, this fountain is extremely quiet. 

Highlights

• 2-liter water capacity
• Sanitary stainless steel
• Adjustable flow
• Virtually silent
• Dishwasher safe

Things to Consider

• May be too small for large dogs or multi-pet households
• High filter-replacement frequency (every two to four weeks)

Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain by PetSafe

The Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain by PetSafe is a large pet water fountain, offering a 1.3 gallon water capacity ideal for larger dogs or multi-pet households. Pets can drink from the adjustable free-falling water stream or from the bowl-like reservoir at the bottom of the fountain. An activated carbon filter removes bad tastes and odors, keeping water fresh and clean. 

Highlights

• 1.3 gallon water capacity ideal for larger pets
• Adjustable flow
• BPA-free plastic
• Dishwasher safe

Things to Consider

• Plastic may cause skin irritation in sensitive animals 

Drinkwell Seascape Ceramic Dog & Cat Fountain

The Drinkwell Seascape Ceramic Fountain is functional, stylish and virtually silent. Because ceramic is heavy, the fountain is also extremely sturdy and won’t slide around. Easy to clean, the ceramic bowl and tower are dishwasher safe. Carbon filter and foam filters keep the water clean and fresh tasting.

Highlights

• 2-liter water capacity
• Attractive design
• Dishwasher safe
• Nearly silent
• Dual foam and carbon filters
• Sturdy

Things to Consider

• More expensive than many plastic or stainless steel fountains
• May be too small for large dogs or multi-pet households
• High filter-replacement frequency (every two weeks) with two filters requiring replacement

Catit Flower Fountain

The Catit Flower Fountain offers three water flow options: gentle, bubbling, or calm streams that run off each petal. The triple-action filter contains activated carbon to remove bad tastes and odors, and ion exchange resin to soften the water. A water-level indicator lets you see when the fountain needs to be refilled. 

Highlights

• 3-liter water capacity
• Triple-action filter
• Affordable 

Things to Consider

• May be too small for large dogs or multi-pet households
• Plastic may cause skin irritation in sensitive animals
• High filter-replacement frequency (every four weeks)

Petmate Deluxe Fresh Flow

If you’re looking for a large pet water fountain, the Petmate Deluxe Fresh Flow water fountain comes in two sizes: 3-liter or 6-liter water capacity for multi-pet households or larger dogs. The fountain’s “water-slide” design prevents splashing and ensures quiet water flow. A charcoal filter removes bad tastes and odors, keeping water fresh and clean. Hand wash only.

Highlights

• 3-liter or 6-liter water capacity
• Splashproof
• Quiet
• Affordable

Things to Consider

• Plastic may cause skin irritation in sensitive animals
• High filter-replacement frequency (every four weeks)
• Not dishwasher safe

Using a Pet Water Fountain: Tips and Advice

Pet water fountains need regular maintenance to keep them clean and functioning. Always read the product manual carefully and follow all the manufacturer’s recommendations on cleaning frequency and how often to replace pet water fountain filters. 

In general, pet fountains need to be taken apart and cleaned every few weeks, more frequently with heavier use or if the water is looking grimy. Wash all parts according to the manual (either in the dishwasher or by hand), and clean the pump well with the proper equipment (usually special cleaning brushes). Top off the fountain with water regularly to make sure the levels never drop too low. Letting a pump run dry will burn it out and require a full pump replacement.  

When considering the overall cost of a pet water fountain, don’t forget about the ongoing cost of replacement filters. Refer to your specific pet water fountain’s manual to find out how frequently filters need to be replaced.

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