JustFoodForDogs is a company that makes fresh, human-grade pet food that can be purchased online or in stores across the United States. Their products aim to provide complete and balanced nutrition for dogs using ingredients you might find in your own kitchen. Many pet owners wonder if JustFoodForDogs is recommended by veterinarians. The short answer is yes, JustFoodForDogs meets the nutritional standards set by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and their recipes are formulated by veterinary nutritionists. However, as with any pet food, owners should consult with their own vet before switching foods.
Veterinary formulation and approval
One of the unique aspects of JustFoodForDogs is that their recipes are formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Dr. Oscar Chavez, DVM, MSc, MRCVS helped develop their recipes and continues to oversee their nutritional standards. Having veterinary nutritionists involved in creating and approving recipes is important, as they are experts in the specific nutritional needs of dogs. General veterinarians study some aspects of clinical nutrition, but specialists have completed several years of additional training and research focused entirely on animal nutrition and dietary requirements. Having veterinary nutritionists involved demonstrates that science and health are core values for the company.
In addition to being formulated by veterinarians, JustFoodForDogs meets the nutritional standards set by AAFCO. AAFCO, the Association of American Feed Control Officials, is a group that creates nutrient profile recommendations for complete and balanced pet foods. Pet food manufacturers can formulate their products to meet AAFCO standards, have feeding trials to prove the food is nutritionally sound, or do both. JustFoodForDogs products meet AAFCO standards, meaning the recipes contain appropriate levels of protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients required in dog foods. Meeting these national guidelines is another way JustFoodForDogs recipes are vet recommended.
Ingredients and preparation
The ingredients and preparation methods used by JustFoodForDogs also make it a vet recommended option. JustFoodForDogs uses whole, fresh ingredients from USDA approved sources. Some of the main ingredients include:
- Muscle meat and organ meat (heart, liver)
- Whole vegetables and fruits
- Grains (oats, barley, rice)
- Healthy oils (salmon, coconut)
They avoid using any rendered meats, artificial preservatives, or anonymous by-products. JustFoodForDogs prepares their food in USDA-inspected kitchens in small batches. The food does not sit in inventory and is shipped fresh across the country within days of preparation. These high standards for fresh, wholesome ingredients are appreciated by veterinarians and pet owners alike.
Nutritional benefits
The nutritional benefits from JustFoodForDogs recipes make them a good choice from a health perspective. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits:
- High protein from animal sources
- Limited ingredients makes it easy to track nutrients
- Whole foods provide natural sources of key nutrients
- Contains probiotics and prebiotics for gut health
- Variety of recipes to meet different life stages and needs
The protein levels meet or exceed recommendations to support an active, healthy dog. Whole food carbohydrates provide natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients compared to refined grains. Healthy fats from salmon oil, coconut, and other sources provide fatty acids for skin and coat health. Added supplements round out the recipes to give balanced nutrition. With these benefits, it’s clear why veterinarians would recommend JustFoodForDogs to pet owners looking for a nutritious choice.
Veterinarian testimonials
In addition to having veterinary formulated recipes, some veterinarians who have used JustFoodForDogs foods have provided positive testimonials:
“As a veterinarian for over 25 years and just recently switching my own dogs to JustFoodForDogs, I am so impressed with the noticeable health improvements in such a short time. I recommend JustFoodForDogs to all my clients.” Dr. Ken Zicker, DVM
“JustFoodForDogs offers nutritious and delicious food that promotes health, longevity, and excellent body condition. My own dogs thrive on their recipes, and I recommend JustFoodForDogs diets to my clients.” Dr. Ernie Ward, DVM
These testimonials from veterinarians who have used the food in their own practices speaks volumes about how JustFoodForDogs is recommended within the veterinary community. Seeing positive changes in pets’ health motivates vets like Dr. Zicker and Dr. Ward to recommend it to their clients.
Some vets have concerns
However, it’s worth noting that some veterinarians do express concerns about fresh, homeprepared diets like JustFoodForDogs. Here are some of the common concerns:
- Risk of nutritional imbalances if owners make homemade food themselves
- Higher cost compared to commercial kibble diets
- Dogs that are picky or have allergies may resist diet change
- Owners may improperly store or handle fresh food
For veterinarians unfamiliar with JustFoodForDogs and their protocols, these concerns are understandable. However, their veterinary-formulated recipes, commitment to safety, and proper home storage instructions help alleviate those issues. Cost is still higher than kibble, which is a valid concern for some owners. However overall, most vets acknowledge the benefits fresh food can provide.
Veterinary monitoring is still recommended
It’s important to note that while JustFoodForDogs meets veterinary standards, any diet change should involve consulting your personal vet. Here are some tips for including your vet if considering this diet:
- Ask if they recommend fresh diets and get their opinion on JustFoodForDogs
- Have your vet examine your dog before switching to check overall health
- Follow up with lab work after several months to ensure bloodwork is still normal
- Be open with your vet about any concerns that come up during the transition
Monitoring weight, energy levels, stool consistency, skin and coat health, and running occasional lab tests can help confirm your dog is thriving on a fresh food diet. Working together with your vet is key.
Puppy and senior dog considerations
Puppies and senior dogs have some unique nutritional needs that warrant special mention:
Puppies
Puppies need higher levels of certain nutrients like protein, calcium, and calories to support growth and development. JustFoodForDogs Growth and Development puppy recipes meet these needs with:
- At least 30% protein from animal sources
- Balanced calcium and phosphorus levels
- Metabolizable energy for growth: 4000 kcal/kg
Following their feeding guidelines tailored for puppies can help support healthy growth. Staying within the recommended daily calorie intake levels is important to avoid overnutrition.
Senior dogs
Many senior dogs can benefit from the digestibility and palatability of fresh dog food. Adjustments might include:
- Lower calorie recipes to maintain ideal weight
- Increased omega-3s for joint health and cognition
- Added glucosamine/chondroitin for mobility
- Probiotics and fiber for digestion
JustFoodForDogs Senior and Weight Management recipes offer these tailored nutritional benefits. Monitoring any health issues and discussing diet with your vet is still important. But a fresh food diet may be helpful for many older dogs.
Conclusion
In summary, while individual veterinarians may have differing opinions, JustFoodForDogs can be considered a vet recommended option that offers nutritional benefits for dogs. Their recipes are formulated by PhD nutritionists to meet AAFCO standards. Veterinarians who have used the food report good results in their own patients. However, working with your personal vet to monitor your dog is still important should you make the switch to this fresh food diet. By offering whole-food, vet-formulated recipes delivered fresh, JustFoodForDogs aims to provide the benefits of homecooked food with the expertise and convenience pet owners desire.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Veterinary formulated recipes | Higher cost than commercial kibble |
| Meets AAFCO nutritional standards | Diet change may be difficult for some dogs |
| Uses fresh, whole food ingredients | Proper handling and storage required |
| Provides balanced nutrition | Consult vet before switching foods |
| Customizable recipes available |