What is Fresh Dog Food? A Complete Guide for Dog Owners
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Fresh dog food is rapidly growing in popularity in the UK, and for good reason. If you’re a dog owner who cares deeply about your pet’s health and happiness, you might be wondering: what exactly is fresh dog food and how does it differ from traditional options?
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In this article, we’ll break down what fresh dog food is, explore its benefits, explain how it’s made and help you decide if it’s right for your four-legged friend.
Understanding Fresh Dog Food
What is a complete dog food?
Fresh dog food refers to pet meals made from minimally processed, high-quality ingredients-similar to what you might prepare in your own kitchen. These diets typically include real meats, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Unlike traditional kibble or canned food, fresh dog food is cooked gently at lower temperatures, helping preserve nutrients and natural flavours.
Many fresh dog food brands deliver pre-portioned, ready-to-serve meals that are kept refrigerated or frozen until feeding time. This focus on freshness means fewer artificial preservatives and additives, and more of the wholesome nutrition that dogs need to thrive.
What makes Years fresh dog food different?
Years fresh dog food is slightly different because thanks to our fresh steam cooking process, you can store it in your pantry or kitchen cupboards, freeing up fridge space.
Our unique cooking method that gently cooks the meals at 78°c while eliminating harmful bacteria while preserving the natural vitamins, minerals and moisture found in fresh, whole foods.
Many other ‘fresh food’ companies use filler ingredients such as legumes and grains along with the cheapest meats. We only use wholefood, seasonal ingredients with unprocessed prime meats.
All Years meals are grain-free, gluten-free annd legume-free, made with vibrant fruits and vegetables and tailored to your dog.
The Key Benefits of Fresh Dog Food
Improved Digestion
Dogs fed fresh diets often experience better digestion and less gastrointestinal upset. That’s partly due to the high digestibility of fresh ingredients, along with the absence of fillers and artificial additives found in some commercial pet foods.
Healthier Skin and Coat
Nutrient-rich fresh foods, particularly those containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from fish oils or hempseed, have been shown to promote shinier coats and healthier skin.
Enhanced Energy and Vitality
Owners frequently report that their dogs show increased energy and playfulness after switching to fresh food. Balanced meals made from real, whole foods provide more bioavailable nutrients, supporting muscle maintenance and overall wellbeing.
Weight Management
Because fresh dog food is portion-controlled and free from high-calorie ingredients which offer very little nutritional benefits, it can help dogs maintain a healthy weight more easily. This is especially important for breeds prone to obesity or for senior pets who require fewer calories.
Fewer Allergies and Sensitivities
Some dogs are sensitive to common proteins or grains found in commercial diets. Fresh dog food recipes, like Years, are often made with single source proteins to help manage different allergies
Is Fresh Dog Food Right for Your Pet?
Most dogs benefit from a diet made with fresh, wholesome ingredients, but it’s important to ensure any diet change is gradual and nutritionally balanced.
Years offers a 7 day trial from just £7 which also acts as a transition for your dog as they start their fresh food diet.
Why Choose Years For Your Dog?
When selecting a fresh dog food provider, quality, transparency, and nutritional expertise are key. Years stands out as a trusted choice for pet parents seeking truly fresh, healthy meals for their dogs. Here’s what sets Years apart:
1. Premium Human-Grade Ingredients
Years uses only the finest human-grade meats, vegetables, fruits and seeds in every recipe. Every batch is free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives, ensuring your dog gets pure nutrition in every bite.
2. Expertly Balanced Recipes
All Years meals are formulated by experienced veterinary nutritionists to meet or exceed AAFCO standards. Each recipe is carefully balanced to support your dog’s health at every age, from playful puppies to wise seniors.
3. Tailored Meal Plans
Years customises portion sizes based on your dog’s age, weight, activity level and dietary needs. This means your dog gets the right nutrition in the right amount - no more, no less.
4. Flexibility
With Years, fresh meals are delivered directly to your doorstep with flexible delivery options to fit your busy schedule. With Years you are always in control and you can pause, skip or stop your plan at any time.
5. Store in the cupboard
Thanks to our unique cooking technique, you can store Years meals in the cupboard for up to 3 months. Get your fridge and freezer space back!
Fresh Dog Food FAQs
Can I make fresh dog food at home?
Yes, but it’s crucial to follow veterinarian-approved recipes to ensure complete and balanced nutrition. Homemade diets may require supplements to meet all your dog’s dietary needs. Years has been formulated with canine nutritionists to be nutritionally complete.
How long does Years fresh dog food last?
Years keeps for up to 3 months in the cupboard for up to 3 months. Just be sure to check the expiry date on the labels. Once you’ve opened a tray, simply use the reusable Stay Fresh™ lid and store it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 7 days.
How do I transition my dog to fresh food?
Transition gradually by mixing increasing amounts of fresh food with your dog’s current diet over 7 - 10 days to avoid digestive upset.
About the author
Kate Hepplewhite
Digital Marketing Manager, Years (Dog mum to a Sprollie-ocker)
Kate Hepplewhite is the Digital Marketing Manager at Years, where she combines her love for dogs with a passion for words. She shares her life with Barney, a lively Springer, Cocker Spaniel and Collie mix, who’s her hiking buddy and daily dose of joy. Together, they’re on a mission to conquer Hadrian’s Wall this year, one muddy mile at a time. When she’s not building digital campaigns, Kate is out in the country with Barney or planning their next big adventure
