Are you wondering what fresh dog food is and whether it’s right for your pup? You’re not alone. As more pet parents seek out wholesome, high-quality nutrition, fresh dog food has emerged as a popular choice. In this post, we’ll explore what fresh dog food is, its benefits, how it compares to other types of dog food, and how Merrick Fresh Selects fits into the picture.

What is Fresh Dog Food?  

Fresh dog food is made with whole, minimally processed ingredients that are gently cooked to preserve nutrients and flavor. It’s not raw, and it’s not homemade—though it shares some characteristics with both. Unlike dry kibble or canned wet food, fresh dog food is typically refrigerated or frozen and served after thawing.  

Fresh dog food is fully cooked, reducing the risk of pathogens found in raw diets. It’s also expertly formulated to be complete and balanced, unlike many home-cooked meals that may lack essential nutrients.

Benefits of Fresh Dog Food

Fresh dog food offers a range of benefits that appeal to both dogs and their humans:  

• Enhanced Palatability: Dogs love the taste and texture of fresh food.  
• Healthy Hydration: Like wet food, fresh food contains more moisture than kibble.  
• Ingredient Transparency: You’ll recognize all the main ingredients on the label.  
• Sensitivity-Friendly Options: Limited ingredient recipes made with single source proteins can be beneficial for dogs with sensitivities.

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Fresh vs. Fresh Frozen Dog Food  

Fresh frozen dog food, like Merrick Fresh Selects, is frozen immediately after cooking to lock in nutrients and extend shelf life. It shares all the benefits of fresh food—high-quality ingredients, gentle cooking, and complete nutrition—but adds convenience.

Why choose fresh frozen?

• Longer shelf life
• Nutrient preservation through freezing
• No need for artificial preservatives

Fresh frozen dog food is a great way to enjoy the benefits of fresh food with added practicality.

Ingredients in Fresh and Fresh Frozen Dog Food

Fresh and fresh frozen dog foods are built around premium ingredients:

• High-Quality Proteins: Real deboned meats like turkey, beef, and chicken
• Fresh Vegetables and Whole Grains: Like brown rice, carrots, and peas
• Vitamins & Minerals: Added to ensure complete nutrition
• Limited Ingredient Recipes: Make it easy to know exactly what’s in your dog’s food  

Merrick Fresh Selects is crafted with a limited number of ingredients and added nutrients. These fresh frozen meals are fully cooked—not raw—and meet AAFCO standards for adult dog maintenance. Recipes include Turkey & Brown Rice, Beef & Brown Rice, and Chicken & Brown Rice, all made without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

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Is Fresh Frozen Dog Food Right for Your Dog?

Choosing the right food depends on your dog’s age, activity level, health conditions, and your lifestyle.

Pros:

• High-quality nutrition
• Great for picky eaters
• Supports healthy hydration
• Can be fed as a complete meal, topper, or treat  

Considerations:  

• Ensure you have the freezer space to store fresh frozen meals  
• Be sure to plan for some meal prep time just like you would for your own meals, since fresh frozen food needs to be thawed  
• In addition to all its benefits, keep in mind that fresh frozen food comes with a higher cost than kibble or canned wet food  

Fresh frozen dog food is especially beneficial for adult dogs with food sensitivities or those needing a more enticing meal option. 

As one of our on-staff veterinarians shared, “Mealtimes should be enjoyable, and delicious fresh frozen food can add fun and variety into your dog’s mealtime experience.”

Can I Make Fresh Dog Food at Home?  

While homemade dog food may seem appealing, it carries risks. Crafting a nutritionally complete and balanced meal requires deep knowledge of canine dietary needs. Without proper formulation, homemade meals can lead to deficiencies or imbalances. For most pet owners, professionally prepared fresh dog food offers a safer, more reliable alternative.

How to Feed Fresh Frozen Dog Food  

Feeding fresh frozen dog food is simple but requires attention to handling:  

• Portioning: One cup of Merrick Fresh Selects replaces approximately ¼ cup of dry dog food when used as a topper. See our website or individual product packaging for specific feeding instructions for each Fresh Selects recipe.  
• Puppies: These recipes are formulated for adult dogs. Consult your vet before feeding to puppies.  
• Safe Handling: Thaw in the refrigerator. Once thawed, unopened packages last up to 7 days; opened packages should be used within 5 days.  
• Serving: Don’t leave food out for more than 30–60 minutes. Refrigerate unused portions promptly.  
• Complete Nutrition: Merrick Fresh Selects are complete and balanced, suitable as a full meal or a topper.  

As with any new food, be sure to transition your pet gradually by following recommended guidelines.

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Conclusion  

Fresh dog food offers a compelling alternative to traditional kibble and wet food. Whether used as a full meal or a topper, fresh dog food can elevate your dog’s nutrition and mealtime experience. Fresh frozen options like Merrick Fresh Selects provide the same advantages with added convenience and shelf life.  

“Fresh frozen options like Merrick’s Fresh Selects are packed with nutrition,” one of our Merrick vets explains, “and their novel form can appeal to dogs with particularly ‘refined’ palates.”

Before making changes to your dog’s diet, consider their individual needs and consult your veterinarian. Merrick remains committed to delivering wholesome, high-quality nutrition that supports an ideal body condition for all dogs.  

Ready to explore fresh frozen dog food? Learn more about Merrick Fresh Selects and discover the best recipe for your dog.  

For more expert tips on pet food, explore our other feeding articles.