10 Best Pet Food for Picky Eaters 2023: Tasty & Healthy
There’s no denying that our furry family members can be quite pretentious when it comes to food. But what do you do when their taste is extremely refined and demands only the utmost gourmet recipes?
The answer is simple – you look for the best pet food for picky eaters! To give you a hand, I’ve worked with our team of experts and found the 10 best pet food suppliers on the market that focus on ingredient quality, customization, and different dietary needs pets may have.
Ollie is at the top of the list due to the care the brand shows for the general health and well-being of dogs of all ages. Plus, I like that you get well-formulated recipes designed with human-grade ingredients customized to fit your pooch’s needs.
But if this brand doesn’t fit your finicky pet’s demands, others might. So make sure to keep reading.
Short on Time? Here Is the Best Pet Food for Picky Eaters
Ollie – Best overall dog food for picky eaters
The Farmer’s Dog – Best food for picky eaters with a sensitive stomach
Nom Nom – Best science-backed fresh meal recipes
Raised Right – Best low-fat, high-protein content recipes
Open Farm – Best pet food variety for picky eaters
The Best Pet Food for Picky Eaters Reviewed
1. Ollie – Best Overall Dog Food for Picky Eaters
Current deal: Get 60% Off Your Starter Box!
Why I like it: Dogs of all ages can enjoy the high-quality, freshly prepared, human-grade dog food from Ollie’s. That’s because the meals are designed to fit a dog’s nutritional needs but also respect your pooch’s preferences by asking owners to fill in a detailed quiz.
The meal plan is generated based on the data you introduce in the quiz, and the available dishes include mouthwatering ingredients such as beef, chicken, turkey, or lamb in combination with nutritious ingredients such as kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, and peas.
Plus, your pooch can try out various combinations of baked and fresh meals until you find a mixture that fits their taste. Ollie produces both fresh and baked meals that are gently cooked to retain a maximum of nutrients.
Our reviewer said: “Human-grade, healthy ingredients, no added byproducts or fillers, plus superfoods (cod liver oil anyone?) sneaked into each bite are just a few of its obvious benefits.”
Price: Plans range from $4-$8 per day for small dogs and can go up to $12+ for larger breeds (depending on your dog’s nutritional needs). You can also try things out with a starter box, and if your picky eater doesn’t like it, you can get your money back.
Subscription options: Ollie is only available on subscription, but you can control the delivery schedule, recipes, and quantity.
2. The Farmer’s Dog – Best Food for Picky Eaters With a Sensitive Stomach
Current deal: Get 60% off on your first order!
Why I like it: Dogs can have sensitive stomachs (just like us), but due to brands like The Farmer’s Dog this isn’t a problem anymore. The four available vet-formulated recipes (chicken, pork, beef, and turkey) are packed with delicious human-grade ingredients designed to improve digestion and boost the immune system. Plus, all the recipes have fish oil and a proprietary nutrient blend.
To try out any of these mouthwatering recipes, you have to fill in a quiz, after which you’ll be presented with a customized meal plan for your pup.
Our reviewer said: “Ingredients are sourced from local farms, reputable food suppliers, or other suppliers who deliver human food following USDA standards. Many veterinarians prescribe The Farmer’s Dog food for chubby dogs trying to get to a healthy weight.”
Price: The total cost depends on your dog’s size, appetite, and nutrient needs, but prices start at $2/day but can be a bit higher if you’ve got a larger dog. Also, if your pup doesn’t like the food, you can ask for a refund.
Subscription options: The Farmer’s Dog is only available with an auto-renewing subscription, but you can control the delivery frequency, recipes, and quantity of food.
3. Nom Nom – Best Science-Backed Fresh Meal Recipes
Current deal: Take 60% Off Your First Order
Why I like it: Each of the four nutrient-packed recipes (beef, turkey, chicken, pork) was crafted by a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist to ensure the taste and level of nutrients are just right for pups of all ages. Plus, only quality proteins and vegetables are used for this fresh food!
Nom Nom is great for finicky dogs because the texture, taste, and smell appeal to our furry friends’ taste buds. Plus, you can always try out Nom Nom’s probiotic supplements designed to support your pet’s gut health.
Our reviewer said: “Nom Nom has not one, but two, Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionists on its team. I mean, wow! When it comes to scientific expertise, you can rest assured Nom Nom has that covered.”
Price: Starting at $2.40 (for small breeds), the costs will go up with your dog’s size and level of activity. Also, if you don’t see the expected benefits within the first 30 days, you can request a full refund of your first order.
Subscription options: Nom Nom works on an auto-renew subscription only, and you control the delivery schedule, recipe combination, and quantity.
4. Raised Right – Best Low-Fat, High-Protein Content Recipes
Current deal: 20% Off Your First Box (16 Bags)
Why I like it: Unlike other fresh food brands, Raised Right’s menu is varied, has separate recipes for adult dogs and puppies, and has several recipes for adult cats. Plus, the recipes include only ingredients you can recognize and are low in carbs (less than 2%) and high in quality protein. This is true because the company doesn’t use high-carb fillers.
The unusually wide recipe selection is also a major plus for picky eaters, who now have options in choosing their favorite flavors. And, there’s an option to test the food by ordering a sample box including several recipes.
Our reviewer said: “Raised Right combines years of experience in farming and ranching with the knowledge of expert veterinarians and pet food scientists to create fresh, nutrition-dense, and safe recipes for cats and dogs.”
Price: Starting at $9.99/bag, the price may make you think twice about it, especially for large dogs. However, you can choose to feed only Raised Right food or combine it with your pet’s usual dry food, which will reduce the needed quantity.
Subscription options: Both auto-renew subscriptions and one-time purchases are available. With the subscription, you can set the delivery between every week and up to 28 weeks. Also, you can choose between full boxes (16 1 lb bags of food) or sample boxes (four bags of food).
5. Open Farm – Best Pet Food Variety for Picky Eaters
Current deal: Save 20% off your first Autoship with code: AUTOSHIPLIFE
Why I like it: Open Farm has a wide range of recipes, in various forms (dry, wet, freeze-dried raw, or gently cooked). Plus, the supplements, treats, and toppers are just as inviting for picky eaters who don’t know what they like.
So, if you have one (or several), fussy eaters, at home, take advantage of the Open Farm offer and try every recipe until you find the right one(s). Also, the offer for cats is just as varied as the one for dogs.
Our reviewer said: “Open Farm is dedicated to providing ethical and sustainable pet food for both cats and dogs, with easily traced ingredients.”
Price: The price varies greatly depending on the type of food you choose, the main protein, and your pet’s needs. Prices start from $7/lb without auto-shipment and can go as high as $80+ per one 22lb dry food bag. If your furry friend is unhappy with the food, you can return it and ask for a refund within 15 days of your purchase.
Subscription options: Both auto-renew subscriptions and one-time purchases are available. With the subscription, you have full control of the delivery schedule.
6. JustFoodForDogs – Great Fresh Food Formulated by a Vet
Current deal: Save 40% off your first order and 5% off recurring autoship orders!
Why I like it: JustFoodForDogs is one of the few brands that formulates different recipes for dogs with different needs. For instance, the company has several recipes for dogs with low appetites and older dogs. Also, puppies get their own selection.
Plus, besides the ready-to-eat recipes on the menu, you can also try out making your own homemade recipes using the JFFD specially formulated nutrient blend. And, if you’re trying to see which flavors work best for your pooch, the JFFD variety packs, which include several recipes in one package, are the perfect starters.
Our reviewer said: “JustFoodForDogs is, without doubt, a reliable brand fully committed to helping pooches of all ages achieve their full potential.”
Price: Prices start at $6.45 and go up depending on your dog’s feeding needs and size. When deciding on quantity, you can use your judgment or the feeding calculator supplied by the company.
Subscription options: One-time purchases and auto-renew subscriptions are both available. Subscribed customers have full control of the delivery schedule and can pause or cancel at any time.
7. Spot & Tango – Best Dry Dog Food for Picky Eaters
Current deal: 60% off your first order. Code DELIVERY60
Why I like it: Spot & Tango is one of the few brands that managed to create well-balanced, healthy dry foods for dogs of all ages. Of course, pups can also try the delicious Spot & Tango fresh food recipes, but the three UnKibble blends are often the stars due to the crunchy texture and delicious taste.
Besides being more affordable than fresh food recipes, UnKibble is also easier to store and more convenient to feed. If you choose fresh food, there are two grain-free recipes (Turkey & Red Quinoa and Beef & Millet) that work well for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Our reviewer said: “Not only does Spot & Tango offer your dog a healthy, balanced diet, but the whole process is extremely convenient thanks to its pre-portioned meals and auto-delivery options.”
Price: The cost varies depending on several factors, such as your dog’s appetite and size or whether you decide on UnKibble vs. fresh food. Depending on the customized meal plan, you can expect to pay between $7 per week and $10+ per meal, which is rather steep. But, if you want to reduce costs, you can use Spot & Tango as a topper for your pooch’s regular meals.
Subscription options: Spot & Tango works as an auto-renewing subscription that you can pause and cancel at any time.
8. Chewy – Best Online Shop for All Pets
Current deal: Save 35% On Your First Order
Why I like it: Whether you have dogs, cats, birds, or fish, Chewy has something for you! From various types of food, treats, supplements, and treatments, to toys and clothing, Chewy is the online shop for your pet’s needs.
In terms of food, you can check out all the brands your pet finds delicious and try new ones. The offer also includes a wide range of recipes, such as wet food, gently cooked, kibble, veterinary diets, or premium foods.
Our reviewer said: “One thing Chewy does better than most online pet food retailers is offer great savings with deals and subscriptions.“
Price: For food, prices can start at <$2 per meal and go over $100 per bag/can/pack depending on your options and your pooch’s needs. But this is a full-on online shop for pets, so you can buy other items besides food. Overall, you can order as much or as little as you need, so there’s no upper limit.
Subscription options: Chewy is (and acts as) a regular online shop, but you can set up auto-ship orders for food.
9. PetFlow – Great Options for Dogs, Cats, and More
Current deal: 10% Off Your First Order
Why I like it: Picky eaters will definitely find something to their taste on PetFlow! You get to try out top food brands for dogs, cats, and other pets in various shapes and forms.
I find PetFlow works best for pet parents who like trying new things and don’t need a customized meal plan for their Mr. Whiskers. Plus, besides food, you can add accessories, pharmacy items, treats, toys, and more to the shopping cart.
Our reviewer said: “PetFlow is a great solution for people who know what they want for their pets and are looking for an easy way to get it.”
Price: The price range is rather wide, starting from $2.49/pack and going as high as your budget allows.
Subscription options: Autoship for the items you choose and individual shopping.
10. BarkBox – Designed for Your Dog’s Pleasure
Current deal: 50% off first month
Why I like it: If you want to surprise your dog and have them go nuts with excitement, then you have to try BarkBox! Each box has two toys, two treats, and one delicious chew, but you only know the month’s theme (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Harry Potter, and many others). So, it’s a surprise for you and for Fido.
The toys are original designs created with your dog’s needs and preferences in mind. Also, the treats are tailored for allergy and diet preferences. So, if you have a picky eater in need of some extra excitement, try out your first BarkBox! It’ll definitely do the job and raise your pooch’s activity levels.
Price: Prices start at $23 per month, but the final cost can vary depending on the theme and your options.
Subscription options: BarkBox works as a monthly subscription that you can cancel at any time.
Quick Comparison Table
Starting Price | Minimum Order | Meal Type | Shipping | Active Deals | |
$4-$8 per day | 2 weeks worth of meals | Fresh | Free | Get 60% Off Your Starter Box! from Ollie | |
$2/day | 2 weeks worth of meals | Fresh | Free | Get 60% off on your first order! from The Farmer’s Dog | |
$2.40 | 2 weeks worth of meals | Fresh | Free | Take 60% Off Your First Order from Nom Nom | |
$9.99/bag | Sample Box (4 Bags) or Full Box (16 Bags) | Fresh | Free | 20% Off Your First Box (16 Bags) from Raised Right | |
$7/lb without auto-shipment | 1 item | Fresh, dry, freeze-dried raw, gently cooked | $5.99 or free for orders over $50 | Save 20% off your first Autoship with code: AUTOSHIPLIFE from Open Farm | |
$6.45 | 7.8lb bag | Fresh Frozen, Pantry Fresh (shelf-stable), DIY Nutrient Blend | $10, or free for autoship deliveries | Save 40% off your first order and 5% off recurring autoship orders! from JustFoodForDogs | |
$7 per week | 2 weeks worth of meals | Fresh, UnKibble Fresh Dry | Free | 60% off your first order. Code DELIVERY60 from Spot & Tango | |
<$2 per meal | 1 item | Fresh, dry, raw, gently cooked | $4.95 or free for orders over $49 | Save 35% On Your First Order from Chewy | |
$2.49/pack | 1 item | Fresh, dry, wet, freeze-dried, gently cooked | $5.95 or free for orders over $49 | 10% Off Your First Order from PetFlow | |
$23 per month | 1 box per month | Treats | Standard shipping fees apply | 50% off first month from BarkBox |
Tips for Choosing the Best Pet Food for Picky Eaters
It’s not easy to choose recipes for picky eaters, especially when they can’t say loud and clear what they like. However, our pets aren’t that complex – they’ll most likely eat fresh and tasty foods, so here are a few tips to help you choose:
Human-grade ingredients: The best pet food recipes use simple, whole ingredients that are safe to eat by humans as well. Ingredients such as lean meats, veggies, oil fish, and more make for some of the healthiest recipes.
Options for customization: Even though you can’t change the recipe, a meal plan designed based on your pet’s caloric needs is a good idea. This way, you know how much to feed and which recipes work best.
Vitamins and essential nutrients: Dogs, cats, and other pets have specific nutritional needs that can only be met by adding various elements to their foods. Talk with your veterinary and ask them about your pet’s needs, and then check that the recipes you feed them are formulated to meet those needs.
Fresh vs. dry: Both types of food are fine as long as they're made following official guidelines. In general, older and younger pets might have trouble with dry food because of their teeth.
Bottom Line: Which Pet Food Brand is Best for a Picky Eater?
The best food for your pet is the one that fits their test and nutritional needs. This is why you have to try a few brands and types of food (fresh, raw, dry, wet, and so on) before you can decide.
While many of the pooches that try out Ollie’s delicious foods are quite happy with it, there are some picky eaters who don’t like it as much. If this is the case, there are other fresh food brands with good recipes to try. Also, some companies have reshaped kibbles and turned dry food into delicious and healthy meals. And, if none of these work, check out our list of the best fresh dog food delivery services.
FAQ
What is the number one healthiest dog food?
Ollie is one of the fresh dog food brands on the market designed to improve digestion and boost energy levels. Also, the recipes are formulated with natural, human-grade ingredients and meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages.
What is the best pet food recommended by vets?
Nom Nom is a brand that leans stronger toward the scientific side of formulating the best recipes. However, a vet will always recommend foods based on your pet’s specific needs, so Nom Nom may not always be their first choice.
Which brand of pet food is best?
Spot & Tango is an excellent option for dogs who like dry and fresh food. However, if you have a cat or another pet, a company like Open Farm or Chewy may be the best option.
