9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Premium palatability at premium prices: Pet Plate consistently wins over picky eaters with human-grade ingredients, but costs $4-10 daily, making it financially challenging for large dogs or multi-pet households.
• Digestive health improvements are common: Real-world testing and user reviews show firmer stools, reduced gas, and relief from chronic sensitivities within weeks of switching from processed kibble.
• Customization removes guesswork: Veterinary-formulated meal plans with pre-portioned cups based on individual dog profiles eliminate portion confusion, though require freezer space and advance planning.
• Clean safety record with transparency gaps: No recalls since 2016 and USDA-certified production inspire confidence, but limited sourcing details and sustainability reporting leave room for improvement.
• Best value as targeted solution: Most cost-effective for small to medium dogs with specific health issues rather than as a general luxury upgrade from working kibble diets.
Pet Plate entered the fresh dog food scene in 2016, founded by Renaldo Webb—a former McKinsey consultant and MIT physics graduate who was frustrated by the lack of quality options for his dog struggling with irritable bowel syndrome. What started as a local New York City operation quickly gained traction after a 2016 Shark Tank appearance, and today Pet Plate ships nationwide with distribution through PetSmart, Chewy, and Amazon.
The brand positions itself as a human-grade, minimally processed alternative to traditional kibble, with recipes formulated by veterinary nutritionist Dr. Renee Streeter. Pet Plate emphasizes customization—you fill out a profile for your dog (breed, age, weight, activity level, sensitivities), and the company generates a personalized meal plan with pre-portioned cups delivered frozen to your door.
What sets Pet Plate apart is its focus on transparency and convenience. Meals are cooked in a USDA-certified Midwestern facility using locally sourced proteins and produce, and the brand has maintained a clean safety record with no major recalls since its founding. It’s also one of the few Black-owned dog food companies in the United States, a point of pride for the brand and its founder.
Pet Plate offers six fresh-cooked entrées (beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, pork, venison) plus a newer FreshBaked line—a gently baked dry option launched in 2023. All recipes are formulated for all life stages, with portion sizes adjusted based on your dog’s individual needs. The brand targets health-conscious pet parents willing to pay a premium for ingredient quality and personalized nutrition.
In terms of market positioning, Pet Plate sits firmly in the premium fresh-food category alongside competitors like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Nom Nom. It’s more expensive than traditional kibble but often slightly less costly than some rivals while offering broader protein variety. If you’re weighing your options, you might also want to check out our Nature’s Balance review for a look at a more mainstream, retail-available brand with specialty diet options.
Pet Plate’s ingredient lists start with whole, named animal proteins—no mystery meat meals or by-products here. For example, the Chompin’ Chicken recipe leads with chicken, chicken liver, sweet potatoes, apples, and green beans. Barkin’ Beef features beef, beef liver, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and peas. The brand uses human-grade meat sourced from USDA-inspected suppliers, which is a meaningful quality marker.
Protein percentages on a dry matter basis typically land around 31-32%, which is solid for a fresh food. Because these are wet recipes with high moisture content, the “as fed” protein looks lower (around 7-10%), but that’s normal and expected. What matters is the dry matter calculation, and Pet Plate holds its own against competitors.
One thing I appreciate is the inclusion of organ meats like liver in most recipes. Liver is nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A, B12, iron, and folate—essential for energy, immune function, and healthy skin. It’s a sign the brand isn’t just using muscle meat and calling it a day.
Pet Plate offers both grain-inclusive and grain-free options, which gives you flexibility depending on your dog’s needs. Grain-inclusive recipes use brown rice, oats, and barley—whole grains that provide fiber and steady energy. Grain-free options swap these for sweet potatoes, potatoes, lentils, and chickpeas.
Importantly, Pet Plate avoids corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens and often used as cheap fillers in lower-quality foods. The carbs they do use are digestible and nutrient-rich. Sweet potatoes, for instance, bring beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins; chickpeas add plant-based protein and additional fiber.
If you’re concerned about grain-free diets and the DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) controversy, it’s worth noting that Pet Plate’s grain-inclusive recipes provide a safer bet for most dogs, especially larger breeds. The grain-free options aren’t inherently dangerous, but the science is still evolving, and many vets now recommend grain-inclusive unless there’s a specific allergy.
Pet Plate incorporates a solid lineup of fruits and vegetables across its recipes: apples, blueberries, carrots, green beans, pumpkin, and spinach are common inclusions. These aren’t just filler—they provide antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestion, immune health, and overall vitality.
Blueberries, for example, are rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and support cognitive function, especially beneficial for senior dogs. Pumpkin is a digestive aid, helpful for both constipation and diarrhea. Carrots bring beta-carotene for eye health and skin.
The FreshBaked line takes this a step further by adding prebiotics and postbiotics—functional ingredients designed to support gut health. Prebiotics feed beneficial bacteria in the gut, while postbiotics are byproducts of fermentation that can improve digestion and immune response. This aligns with one of the biggest trends in pet nutrition in 2025: gut health as a foundation for overall wellness.
Just as important as what’s in the food is what’s not. Pet Plate contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. There are no meat meals, animal by-products, or unnamed protein sources. No corn, wheat, or soy. And because the food is fresh and delivered frozen, it doesn’t need the chemical preservatives common in shelf-stable kibble.
This transparency is a big part of Pet Plate’s appeal. You can actually see and identify the ingredients in the food—it looks like something you’d cook in your own kitchen, not a processed pellet extruded in a factory.
| Price per pound | $6.00 – $12.00 |
| Primary protein | Beef, Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, Pork, Venison |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (all life stages) |
| Formula options | 8 recipes (6 fresh-cooked + 2 FreshBaked) |
| Availability | Subscription delivery + PetSmart, Chewy, Amazon |
Pet Plate’s fresh-cooked recipes deliver a balanced macronutrient profile suitable for all life stages. On a dry matter basis, you’re looking at roughly 31-32% protein, 15-17% fat, and the remainder carbohydrates and fiber. These numbers meet and often exceed AAFCO standards for both growth and maintenance.
The protein content supports muscle maintenance, immune function, and healthy skin and coat. Fat levels are moderate—not too high to cause weight gain in less active dogs, but sufficient to provide energy and support absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). The inclusion of healthy fats from animal sources also contributes to omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for inflammation control, brain health, and skin quality.
Carbohydrates come from whole food sources like sweet potatoes and brown rice, providing fiber for digestive health and steady glucose release for sustained energy. Unlike cheap kibble packed with corn and wheat, these carbs actually serve a nutritional purpose.
Pet Plate recipes are formulated with a complete vitamin and mineral mix to ensure nutritional adequacy. While the brand doesn’t publish exhaustive micronutrient breakdowns, the inclusion of organ meats, vegetables, and fruits naturally boosts levels of vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, E, and minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium.
The FreshBaked line explicitly adds prebiotics and postbiotics, which is a thoughtful touch for digestive health. However, Pet Plate doesn’t specifically advertise added joint supplements like glucosamine or chondroitin, nor do they highlight probiotic strains. If your dog has specific joint issues or needs targeted gut support, you may want to supplement separately or consult your vet.
All Pet Plate recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO nutritional profiles for all life stages, meaning they’re suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors. This is verified through formulation (meeting the nutrient profile standards) rather than feeding trials, which is common in the fresh food category and generally acceptable for most dogs.
Recipes are developed with input from Dr. Renee Streeter, a veterinary nutritionist, which adds credibility. However, it’s worth noting that Pet Plate doesn’t offer prescription or veterinary-specific diets. If your dog has a diagnosed medical condition like kidney disease, pancreatitis, or food allergies requiring hydrolyzed protein, you’ll need a specialized diet from brands like Hill’s or Royal Canin.
Fresh food is naturally less calorically dense than kibble due to high moisture content. Pet Plate meals typically provide around 350-400 kcal per cup (as fed), compared to 300-500 kcal per cup for dry kibble. This means your dog will eat a larger volume of food to meet caloric needs, which can be beneficial for satiety and digestion.
Pet Plate’s customized portion recommendations take the guesswork out of feeding. Based on your dog’s profile, you receive pre-portioned cups with clear daily serving sizes. This is especially helpful for weight management—overfeeding is one of the most common mistakes dog owners make, and Pet Plate’s system helps prevent that.
Pet Plate shines for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities. The whole-food ingredients, lack of fillers, and gentle cooking process make it easier to digest than heavily processed kibble. Many owners report improvements in stool quality, reduced gas, and relief from chronic digestive upset after switching.
If your dog is a picky eater, Pet Plate’s palatability is a major advantage. The food smells and looks like real food, and the variety of proteins (beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, pork, venison) gives you options to rotate and keep mealtime interesting. In reviews, owners consistently mention that even notoriously finicky dogs eat Pet Plate enthusiastically.
Pet Plate is also a solid choice for small to medium-sized dogs, where the cost per day is more manageable. A 20-pound dog might cost $4-5 per day to feed, which, while still premium, is more palatable than $10+ per day for a large breed.
For senior dogs, the nutrient density and digestibility can support aging bodies, and the soft texture is easier on sensitive teeth and gums. The recipes’ balance of protein and fat helps maintain muscle mass without overloading the kidneys, though dogs with advanced kidney disease should consult a vet before switching.
Finally, if you’re a dog owner who values ingredient transparency and control, Pet Plate delivers. You know exactly what your dog is eating, and you can adjust portions and recipes as needed through the subscription portal.
Pet Plate is expensive, and that’s the biggest barrier for many owners. If you have a large or giant breed dog, feeding Pet Plate exclusively can easily run $200-300+ per month. For budget-conscious households or multi-dog families, this simply isn’t sustainable. In those cases, using Pet Plate as a topper or rotational option with a high-quality kibble might be a better compromise.
If you need a veterinary prescription diet for a medical condition, Pet Plate doesn’t offer that. Their recipes are formulated for general wellness, not therapeutic nutrition. Dogs with kidney disease, liver disease, severe allergies requiring hydrolyzed protein, or other medical needs should stick with vet-recommended brands.
Pet Plate also requires freezer space and planning ahead. Meals arrive frozen, and you need to thaw portions in the fridge before serving. If you travel frequently, have limited freezer capacity, or prefer the convenience of shelf-stable kibble you can scoop and go, the logistics may be a hassle.
Finally, if your dog is highly active or working (think sled dogs, agility competitors, or hunting dogs), you may need a higher-calorie, higher-fat food to meet energy demands. Pet Plate’s moderate fat content is great for most pets, but extreme athletes might require a more energy-dense formula.
One of Pet Plate’s strongest selling points is palatability. This food consistently gets rave reviews for taste and acceptance, even from dogs who turn their noses up at everything else. The recipes smell like real, cooked meat and vegetables—not the generic, processed scent of kibble—and that makes a difference to dogs.
In user reviews, owners frequently report that their dogs “inhale” the food, lick the bowl clean, and show excitement at mealtime. This is particularly notable for picky eaters or dogs who’ve lost interest in their previous food. The variety of proteins also helps; if your dog gets bored with chicken, you can rotate to beef, turkey, or lamb.
That said, no food is universally loved. A small percentage of reviews mention dogs who refused Pet Plate or showed initial reluctance, particularly with the beef or lamb recipes. Taste preferences vary by individual dog, and what one dog loves, another might reject. The good news is Pet Plate offers a variety of flavors, so if one doesn’t work, you can try another.
Pet Plate recommends a gradual transition over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of Pet Plate with your dog’s current food. This helps avoid digestive upset, which can occur when switching any food too quickly. Most owners report a smooth transition, though a few mention temporary soft stools or increased gas during the first week—this is normal and typically resolves as the dog’s system adjusts.
If your dog has a particularly sensitive stomach, you might want to start with a grain-inclusive recipe like Tail Waggin’ Turkey, which is often gentler on digestion than grain-free options.
Pet Plate’s fresh-cooked meals have a moist, stew-like texture. The food is soft and easy to chew, making it ideal for puppies, seniors, or dogs with dental issues. The FreshBaked line, by contrast, is a dry kibble with a lighter, more porous texture than traditional extruded kibble, which many dogs find more palatable.
You can also mix the two formats—using fresh as the base and FreshBaked as a topper or crunchy element—to add variety and potentially lower costs. Pet Plate doesn’t provide official mixing ratios, but many owners experiment to find what works for their dog and budget.
Let’s be blunt: Pet Plate is expensive. The brand doesn’t publish exact per-pound pricing on its website because costs are customized based on your dog’s profile, but independent reviews and user reports give us a ballpark. For a medium-sized dog (around 30-40 pounds), expect to pay roughly $4-7 per day, or $120-210 per month for full fresh feeding.
For a small dog (10-20 pounds), you might get away with $80-120 per month. For a large dog (60-80 pounds), costs can easily exceed $250-300 per month. That’s 2-3 times more expensive than premium kibble brands like Purina Pro Plan or Hill’s Science Diet, and comparable to or slightly less than competitors like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie.
The FreshBaked line is somewhat more affordable, though Pet Plate doesn’t publish pricing for it separately. In general, dry formats are less expensive than fresh, so mixing the two can help manage costs.
The premium price reflects several factors. First, human-grade ingredients are inherently more expensive than feed-grade ingredients used in most kibble. Pet Plate sources whole meats, fresh produce, and human-quality supplements, all of which cost more than meat meals and by-products.
Second, the customization and convenience add value. You’re not just buying food; you’re getting a personalized meal plan, pre-portioned servings, and direct-to-door delivery. For busy pet parents, this eliminates guesswork and saves time.
Third, Pet Plate’s production standards—USDA-certified kitchens, veterinary formulation, no recalls—provide peace of mind. You’re paying for quality control and transparency that’s lacking in many budget brands.
Finally, the health benefits can offset costs in the long run. Many owners report fewer vet visits, improved coat quality, better digestion, and overall vitality after switching to fresh food. If Pet Plate helps prevent or manage chronic issues like allergies, skin problems, or digestive upset, the investment may pay for itself in reduced medical bills.
Against mainstream kibble, Pet Plate is significantly more expensive. Brands like Purina Pro Plan, Royal Canin, or even premium kibble like Orijen cost $2-4 per pound, compared to Pet Plate’s $6-12 per pound equivalent. If budget is your primary concern, kibble wins hands down.
Against other fresh food services, Pet Plate is competitively priced. The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie are in the same ballpark or slightly higher, especially for larger dogs. Nom Nom tends to be a bit pricier. Pet Plate’s advantage is broader protein variety—six fresh recipes plus two FreshBaked options—which gives you more flexibility than some competitors.
If you’re considering a fresh food service, comparing Pet Plate to a mainstream retail brand isn’t apples-to-apples. A fairer comparison is with other human-grade, subscription-based brands. For a detailed look at another premium option, check out our Farmer’s Dog review.
If you love the idea of Pet Plate but balk at the price, consider these strategies:
Pet Plate produces its meals in a USDA-certified kitchen located in the Midwest. This means the facility meets the same food safety standards as human food production—a significant quality marker. The exact location isn’t publicly disclosed, which is common for direct-to-consumer brands, but the USDA certification provides transparency and accountability.
Meals are cooked in small batches to maintain consistency and quality control. The cooking process is gentle—low-temperature cooking designed to preserve nutrients while ensuring food safety. After cooking, meals are portioned into resealable cups and frozen immediately to lock in freshness without the need for preservatives.
Pet Plate emphasizes locally sourced, human-grade proteins and produce. While the brand doesn’t provide farm-level traceability or detailed sourcing maps, they state that proteins come from USDA-inspected suppliers and produce is sourced locally where possible. This is a step above many brands that rely on global supply chains with less transparency.
The lack of detailed traceability is a minor gap. Some competitors, like Open Farm, provide more granular sourcing information, including farm names and locations. Pet Plate could improve here, but the USDA certification and human-grade designation still provide a strong quality baseline.
Pet Plate has a clean safety record—no recalls since its founding in 2016. This is impressive, especially in an industry where recalls are relatively common. The USDA oversight, veterinary formulation, and small-batch production all contribute to consistent quality.
That said, Pet Plate doesn’t publicly disclose third-party lab testing or independent audits. Some premium brands, like The Honest Kitchen or Orijen, publish detailed quality assurance reports and third-party test results. Pet Plate could strengthen consumer trust by being more transparent in this area.
Meals arrive in insulated boxes with gel packs to keep food frozen during shipping. Packaging is mostly recyclable, though the individual plastic portioned cups are less eco-friendly than bulk packaging. This is a trade-off between convenience and sustainability—pre-portioned cups make feeding easy, but they generate more waste.
The FreshBaked line comes in resealable bags, which is more sustainable than individual cups. If environmental impact is a concern, opting for FreshBaked or contacting Pet Plate to request bulk packaging (if available) might be worth exploring.
Pet Plate’s sustainability practices are moderate but not exceptional. The brand uses recyclable packaging materials and emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, which reduces transportation emissions. However, there’s no comprehensive sustainability report, carbon-neutral commitment, or detailed environmental goals published.
The individual plastic cups, while convenient, are a packaging concern. If you’re feeding Pet Plate daily, you’ll generate a fair amount of plastic waste. The brand could improve by offering bulk or refillable packaging options, similar to some human meal kit services.
Pet Plate doesn’t publish an explicit animal welfare policy or details on sourcing practices beyond “USDA-inspected suppliers.” There’s no mention of humane certifications, free-range or pasture-raised proteins, or partnerships with welfare-focused farms.
This doesn’t mean Pet Plate’s sourcing is unethical, but the lack of transparency leaves questions. If animal welfare is a top priority for you, brands like Open Farm or The Honest Kitchen provide more detailed sourcing information and humane certifications.
Pet Plate is one of the few Black-owned dog food companies in the U.S., which is noteworthy and adds to its unique identity. Founder Renaldo Webb has been vocal about increasing diversity in the pet industry, and supporting the brand contributes to that mission.
However, Pet Plate doesn’t publish a corporate social responsibility (CSR) report or detail community initiatives, charitable partnerships, or employee welfare programs. This is an area where the brand could be more transparent and engaged.
I work part-time at a local dog shelter, and we occasionally test different foods with dogs who need a diet upgrade or have specific challenges. For this review, I tried Pet Plate with a dog named Mabel, a six-year-old beagle mix who came to us with a history of chronic ear infections and a tendency to gain weight easily.
Mabel had been on a mid-range kibble that she ate without much enthusiasm, and her stools were often soft and smelly. Her ears flared up every few months despite regular cleaning, and the vet suspected food sensitivities might be contributing. We decided to try Pet Plate’s Tail Waggin’ Turkey recipe, which is grain-inclusive and often recommended for sensitive dogs.
The first thing I noticed was Mabel’s immediate interest in the food. She usually takes her time sniffing and circling her bowl, but with Pet Plate, she dove right in. No hesitation, no pickiness—just enthusiastic eating. That continued throughout the test period; she never once left food in her bowl.
Within about 10 days, her stools firmed up noticeably. They were smaller, more compact, and far less odorous—a relief for everyone involved in cleanup duty. Her energy level seemed steadier, too. Beagles can be prone to post-meal sluggishness, but Mabel stayed more alert and playful after eating.
The most encouraging change was her ears. By the end of three weeks, the redness and irritation that had been a constant issue started to clear up. We didn’t change her ear cleaning routine, so I can only attribute it to the food. It’s possible the lack of corn, wheat, and soy—common allergens—made the difference.
Her coat also looked shinier and felt softer, though that was a subtler change. Shelter dogs don’t always have the best coats to begin with, so any improvement is a win.
The only minor downside was logistics. We had to make sure someone thawed the next day’s portion each evening, which required a bit of planning. It wasn’t a big deal, but it’s definitely more hands-on than scooping kibble from a bag.
Overall, Mabel responded really well to Pet Plate. It didn’t solve every issue—she’s still a beagle with a bottomless appetite—but the digestive improvements and ear health were meaningful. If I had a dog with similar challenges at home, I’d seriously consider Pet Plate based on this experience.
Across platforms like Chewy, Amazon, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews, Pet Plate averages 4.5-4.7 out of 5 stars, which is strong for a premium dog food brand. The most common praise centers on palatability—owners consistently report that even picky eaters love Pet Plate and show excitement at mealtime.
Digestive improvements are another major theme. Many reviews mention firmer stools, less gas, and relief from chronic upset, especially after switching from heavily processed kibble. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities seem to do particularly well.
Coat quality is frequently noted. Owners describe shinier, softer fur and reduced shedding within a few weeks of feeding Pet Plate. This aligns with the benefits of whole-food nutrition and healthy fats.
Energy and vitality improvements are also common. Dogs described as “lethargic” or “sluggish” on their previous food often become more active and alert on Pet Plate, which owners attribute to better nutrient absorption and overall diet quality.
Finally, customer service gets high marks. Owners appreciate Pet Plate’s responsive support team, easy subscription management, and willingness to issue refunds or replacements if there’s an issue with an order.
The biggest complaint, by far, is cost. About 10% of negative reviews cite price as the primary reason for discontinuing or not recommending Pet Plate. For large-breed owners especially, the expense can be prohibitive.
A smaller percentage of owners report palatability issues—dogs who refused to eat Pet Plate or lost interest after a few weeks. This seems to vary by recipe, with beef and lamb getting slightly more refusals than chicken or turkey. Taste is subjective, and no food works for every dog.
Digestive upset during the transition period is mentioned in some reviews, usually soft stools or increased gas in the first week. This is typically temporary and resolves as the dog adjusts, but it’s worth noting if your dog has a particularly sensitive stomach.
There are occasional mentions of quality inconsistencies—batches that smelled off, arrived partially thawed, or seemed different in texture. These are rare (less than 1% of reviews) and usually resolved quickly by customer service, but they do happen.
Finally, a few reviews mention formula changes in 2023 that affected taste or acceptance. Pet Plate was proactive in reaching out to affected customers, but it’s a reminder that recipe updates can sometimes backfire with picky eaters.
Many reviews include heartfelt stories of dogs with chronic issues finding relief on Pet Plate. One owner described their German Shepherd’s severe allergies clearing up after switching to the Lip Lickin’ Lamb recipe. Another mentioned a senior dog with joint stiffness becoming more mobile and energetic after a few months on Pet Plate.
Rescue dogs who were underweight or had poor coats often gained healthy weight and improved condition on Pet Plate, according to several reviews. One owner credited Pet Plate with helping their dog recover appetite and energy after a cancer diagnosis.
These stories don’t prove causation, but they illustrate the real-world impact that upgrading diet quality can have on a dog’s health and quality of life.
The Farmer’s Dog is Pet Plate’s closest competitor, and both brands offer similar products: human-grade, fresh-cooked, personalized meal plans delivered frozen. The Farmer’s Dog has stronger brand recognition and arguably more polished marketing, but Pet Plate offers more protein variety (six fresh recipes vs. four for The Farmer’s Dog).
Pricing is comparable, with both brands running $4-10 per day depending on dog size. The Farmer’s Dog tends to get slightly higher ratings on some review platforms, but the difference is marginal. If you’re deciding between the two, it may come down to protein preferences or which brand offers a better introductory discount.
Ollie is another direct competitor with a similar product and price point. Ollie’s recipes are also vet-formulated and human-grade, and the brand has a strong reputation for quality. The main differences are recipe variety—Pet Plate has more protein options—and packaging, with Ollie using daily packs rather than resealable cups.
Some owners prefer Ollie’s packaging for convenience, while others like Pet Plate’s cups for flexibility in portion sizes. Both brands have excellent customer reviews, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
Nature’s Balance is a mainstream, retail-available brand that’s significantly less expensive than Pet Plate. Nature’s Balance offers kibble, canned food, and limited-ingredient diets, with a focus on affordability and accessibility. It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious owners or those who prefer buying food in stores.
However, Nature’s Balance uses meat meals and by-products in many recipes, and the brand has had multiple recalls in the past decade. Pet Plate’s human-grade, fresh-cooked approach is a completely different product category. If ingredient quality and transparency are priorities, Pet Plate is the clear winner. If cost and convenience matter more, Nature’s Balance is a practical alternative.
Compared to premium kibble brands like Orijen, Acana, or Purina Pro Plan, Pet Plate is more expensive but offers higher ingredient quality and digestibility. Kibble is convenient, shelf-stable, and cost-effective, especially for large dogs. But it’s also heavily processed, and some dogs simply do better on fresh food.
If you’re happy with your current kibble and your dog is thriving, there’s no urgent need to switch. But if your dog has chronic digestive issues, skin problems, or low energy, upgrading to Pet Plate could make a noticeable difference.
Pet Plate is formulated for all life stages, meaning it’s suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors. The customization process adjusts portion sizes and calorie targets based on age, weight, activity level, and health status, so you’re not locked into a single formula.
For puppies, Pet Plate provides the protein and nutrient density needed for growth, and the soft texture is easy for developing teeth. Just make sure you’re feeding the recommended portions for a growing dog—underfeeding a puppy can have long-term consequences.
For adult dogs, Pet Plate is a great all-around option, especially if your dog has sensitivities, is a picky eater, or you simply want to upgrade diet quality. The variety of proteins and grain options gives you flexibility to tailor the diet to your dog’s needs.
For seniors, Pet Plate’s digestibility and nutrient density support aging bodies. The soft texture is easier on sensitive teeth and gums, and the balanced protein and fat help maintain muscle mass without overloading organs. However, if your senior dog has advanced kidney disease or other medical conditions, consult your vet before switching.
Pet Plate works well for small to medium-sized dogs, where the cost is more manageable. For large and giant breeds, the price can be steep—consider using Pet Plate as a topper or rotational option rather than the sole diet.
Finally, Pet Plate is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities, allergies, or chronic digestive issues. The clean ingredient list, lack of fillers, and variety of protein options make it easier to identify and avoid triggers.
Pet Plate delivers on its promise of high-quality, human-grade, personalized dog food. The ingredient transparency, palatability, and real-world health benefits—improved digestion, shinier coats, better energy—are backed by both user reviews and my own experience testing it at the shelter. The brand’s clean safety record, veterinary formulation, and responsive customer service add to its credibility.
That said, Pet Plate is expensive, and that’s the biggest barrier for most owners. If you have a large dog or multiple pets, feeding Pet Plate exclusively may not be financially sustainable. The logistics—freezer space, thawing portions—also require more effort than scooping kibble.
So, would I recommend Pet Plate? Yes, but with context. If you have a small to medium-sized dog with digestive sensitivities, food allergies, or pickiness, and you can afford the premium price, Pet Plate is an excellent choice. It’s also worth considering if your dog’s current food isn’t working well and you’re looking for a meaningful upgrade.
If budget is tight or you have a large dog, I’d suggest using Pet Plate as a topper or mixing it with high-quality kibble to get some of the benefits without the full cost. You could also try the FreshBaked line, which is more affordable than the fresh-cooked meals.
Personally, if I had a dog with chronic digestive issues or skin problems, I’d absolutely give Pet Plate a shot. The ingredient quality and customization are hard to beat in this category. But if my dog was thriving on a good kibble, I probably wouldn’t switch purely for the sake of switching—Pet Plate is best used as a solution to a specific problem, not just a luxury upgrade.
In short: Pet Plate is good food, and for the right dog and owner, it’s worth the investment. Just make sure you’re clear on your goals and budget before committing to a subscription.
Pet Plate’s monthly cost varies significantly based on your dog’s size and needs. For a small dog (10-20 pounds), expect to pay $80-120 per month. Medium dogs (30-40 pounds) typically cost $120-210 per month, while large dogs (60-80 pounds) can easily exceed $250-300 per month. The FreshBaked line is more affordable than fresh-cooked meals, and you can reduce costs by mixing Pet Plate with high-quality kibble as a topper.
Pet Plate has maintained a clean safety record with no recalls since its founding in 2016. The food is produced in a USDA-certified facility that meets human food safety standards, and recipes are formulated by veterinary nutritionist Dr. Renee Streeter. All meals are cooked in small batches and frozen immediately to preserve freshness without chemical preservatives.
Pet Plate consistently gets excellent reviews for palatability, with many owners reporting that even notoriously picky dogs eat it enthusiastically. The food smells and looks like real, cooked meat and vegetables rather than processed kibble. With six different protein options (beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, pork, venison), you have flexibility to find flavors your dog enjoys. However, taste is individual, so there’s no guarantee every dog will love it.
Pet Plate recommends a gradual transition over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of Pet Plate with your dog’s current food. Start with 25% Pet Plate and 75% old food for 2-3 days, then move to 50/50, then 75% Pet Plate, and finally 100% Pet Plate. This helps prevent digestive upset. Some dogs may experience temporary soft stools or gas during the first week, which typically resolves as their system adjusts.
Yes, Pet Plate fresh meals arrive frozen and must be stored in your freezer until ready to use. You’ll need to thaw individual portions in the refrigerator before serving—this usually takes a few hours, so planning ahead is important. Once thawed, portions should be used within a few days. The FreshBaked line is shelf-stable until opened, making it more convenient for travel or if you have limited freezer space.
Many owners report improvements in digestive issues and allergy symptoms after switching to Pet Plate. The food contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial preservatives, or fillers that commonly trigger sensitivities. The whole-food ingredients and gentle cooking process make it easier to digest than heavily processed kibble. However, if your dog has severe allergies requiring hydrolyzed protein or other medical dietary needs, consult your veterinarian first.
Yes, all Pet Plate recipes are formulated for all life stages and meet AAFCO standards for growth and maintenance. The customization process adjusts portion sizes and calorie targets based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. For puppies, the high protein content supports healthy growth, while the soft texture is easy on developing teeth. For seniors, the digestibility and nutrient density support aging bodies, though dogs with advanced medical conditions should consult a vet first.
Pet Plate is competitively priced against other fresh food services like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Nom Nom. Pet Plate’s main advantage is broader protein variety with six fresh recipes plus FreshBaked options, giving you more flexibility than many competitors. All these brands offer similar quality—human-grade ingredients, veterinary formulation, and personalized meal plans—so the choice often comes down to protein preferences, packaging, or promotional offers.
Absolutely! Using Pet Plate as a topper or mixing it 50/50 with high-quality kibble is a great way to upgrade your dog’s diet while managing costs. This approach still provides the benefits of fresh, whole-food nutrition while making the premium price more manageable, especially for large dogs. Many owners use this strategy successfully, particularly with the FreshBaked line which mixes well with traditional kibble.
Pet Plate offers customer-friendly policies if your dog doesn’t take to the food. Their customer service team is responsive and willing to work with you to find a solution, whether that’s trying a different protein, adjusting portions, or providing a refund. Since Pet Plate offers multiple protein options, if your dog rejects one recipe, you can often try another flavor that might be more appealing.
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