Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Hill's Science Diet
Best Vet-RecommendedThe Farmer's Dog
Best Fresh Food DeliveryPrice
$60-$100 (15-30lb bag)
$2-$15/day (varies by dog size)
Summary
The go-to prescription and everyday food recommended by veterinarians, with more clinical research behind it than almost any other brand. Especially strong for dogs with health conditions.
Fresh, human-grade dog food delivered to your door in pre-portioned packs tailored to your dog's weight, age, and health goals. The top pick for owners who want to step up from kibble.
Pros
- WSAVA-compliant with extensive peer-reviewed nutritional studies
- Prescription formulas available for dogs with kidney disease, allergies, weight issues, and more
- Trusted by veterinarians globally for decades
- Consistent quality control and ingredient sourcing
- Human-grade, restaurant-quality ingredients with no fillers or preservatives
- Pre-portioned meals tailored to your dog's specific size, age, and weight
- USDA-certified kitchens with strong food safety standards
- 50% off first order makes it easy to trial without full commitment
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on this list
- Some dogs find the taste less appealing than other brands
- Regular formulas are less exciting ingredient-wise compared to boutique brands
- Owned by Colgate-Palmolive, which some owners find off-putting
- Significantly more expensive than kibble — costs can run $5-$15/day depending on dog size
- Requires freezer space and advance planning for deliveries
- Not WSAVA-evaluated in the same way as traditional kibble brands
- Subscription model can be difficult to pause or cancel
Our take
If your vet recommends a food, there's a 50% chance it's Hill's — and that's not an accident. The clinical research here is genuinely impressive.
If budget isn't a concern and you want the closest thing to home-cooked meals for your dog, The Farmer's Dog is the clear winner in the fresh food delivery space.
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