Frozen & Fresh is Best:

Why Frozen Whole Foods Are a Game-Changer for Your Dog’s Health

By: Chef Justine

Date: August 11, 2024

When it comes to doggo nutrition, fresh or frozen whole foods are gaining traction for promoting better health outcomes compared to highly processed kibble and canned food. Recent studies by the University of Illinois and The Farmer’s Dog highlight that fresh, lightly processed diets can improve dogs' digestion, weight management, immune function, and even life expectancy. Let’s dive into some of the compelling research behind this movement and explore the benefits of feeding your pup fresh and frozen whole foods.
 

Higher Digestibility and Nutrient Absorption

Research has shown that minimally processed, human-grade ingredients have a significantly higher digestibility rate compared to traditional pet foods. A study conducted by the University of Illinois found that dog food and treats (like ours!) made with human-grade ingredients, such as fresh meat and vegetables, are highly digestible, with dogs absorbing over 85% of the amino acids in these foods. This is a big win for dog owners because better nutrient absorption translates to more energy, a healthier coat, and overall improved health outcomes. Additionally, dogs fed fresh diets often produce smaller and less odorous stools, an added bonus for pet parents who gag at the smell or are made by their significant other to pick up the turds… :)

Improved Weight Management and Longevity

Sadly, obesity is a significant (and preventable) health issue for dogs, affecting roughly 56% of pet dogs in the U.S. Fresh food diets offer more precise portion control, which simplifies weight management and feeding. Maintaining an ideal weight is not just about keeping your dog slim—it LITERALLY can add years to their life. Research published by the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine has shown that leaner dogs live up to 2.5 years longer than their overweight peers. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want 2.5 more years with their fur babies?! By providing fresh, portion-controlled meals, dog owners can help their pets maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related illnesses, such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

Enhanced Immune Function with Fresh Ingredients

A diet rich in whole, fresh ingredients supports a robust immune system, which helps dogs fend off infections and illnesses. Fresh diets are packed with phytonutrients and antioxidants from vegetables like carrots, butternut squash, and green peas. These nutrients, which are often destroyed during the high-heat processing of kibble, help strengthen dogs’ immune defenses and reduce inflammation. A study by the Farmer's Dog found that long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fresh or frozen food diets, play a crucial role in maintaining a dog’s immune health by reducing inflammatory responses.

Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases and Health Complications

Whole food diets may help lower the risk of certain chronic diseases in dogs. One study in the Translational Animal Science journal noted that dogs consuming diets made with high-quality, fresh or frozen ingredients showed significantly improved health markers, including heart health and joint mobility. These benefits are partly due to the use of real, nutrient-dense proteins (like muscle and organ meat) instead of the by-products often found in commercial kibble. High-quality proteins in fresh food have been linked to a better mood in dogs, potentially due to their positive effects on serotonin, a key hormone for well-being.
Additionally, research published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that dogs fed with reduced portions of commercial food had fewer health problems and longer lifespans than those on regular diets. Fresh and frozen diets go a step further by being naturally nutrient-dense, reducing the need for fillers that contribute to obesity and health complications.

The Joy of Variety and Real Flavor

For many dogs, fresh food simply tastes better…duh…This isn’t just about preference; the variety in flavors and textures found in fresh foods can also support mental stimulation and enrichment for dogs. Dogs, much like humans, benefit from a varied diet. Rotating fresh ingredients allows for a broader nutrient profile and reduces the risk of nutrient deficiencies that can result from repetitive, processed diets. And the next time you look into your pup’s eyes, just think about what it would be like to eat those kibbles and processed treats every day of your life.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your dog fresh or frozen whole foods can seem like a big change, but science backs up the benefits of this choice. The shift toward human-grade, minimally processed diets shows promise in extending dogs’ lifespans, reducing the risk of chronic illnesses, and improving their quality of life. If you’re considering a switch, consult with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s dietary needs are met. With the right approach, feeding fresh or frozen food and treats can make a world of difference for your pup. After all, they make a world of difference in yours. :)

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about the author

chef justine kelly

Completely dog obsessed, Chef Justine Kelly, brings over 25 years of experience in the culinary world to every wellness recipe at Puppops, Inc., so your fur babies can eat like family (because they are.) Her career includes co-founding renowned meal kit company, Sunbasket, and as the Executive Chef at San Francisco's James Beard Award-winning restaurant, The Slanted Door. Her pup, River, is her second favorite daughter.