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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• UnKibble uses a unique Fresh Dry™ process that gently cooks and dehydrates whole ingredients, creating a lighter, more digestible texture than traditional extruded kibble while remaining shelf-stable.
• Real-world testing showed significant digestive improvements in a shelter dog with sensitive stomach issues, including firmer stools and better coat quality within three weeks of feeding.
• Premium pricing at $7-11 per pound makes it significantly more expensive than mainstream kibbles but competitively priced against other human-grade brands like The Honest Kitchen and Stella & Chewy’s.
• Perfect safety record with zero recalls and direct manufacturing control at their Pennsylvania facility sets it apart from many competitors that have faced quality control issues.
• Bridges the gap between kibble and fresh food by offering human-grade ingredients and minimal processing without requiring freezer storage or daily meal preparation like fresh diet subscriptions.
Spot & Tango launched in 2018, founded by Russell Breuer and his spouse in New York. The company started with fresh, human-grade meals delivered frozen, then introduced UnKibble in 2020 as a shelf-stable alternative that still prioritized whole-food ingredients and minimal processing. The idea was simple: give dog owners the benefits of fresh food without the hassle of refrigeration or the compromises of traditional kibble.
UnKibble uses a process Spot & Tango calls Fresh Dry™, which gently cooks ingredients at low temperatures and then dehydrates them to preserve nutrients, aroma, and palatability. The result is a kibble that looks and feels different from the hard, uniform pellets you’d find in most supermarket brands. It’s lighter, more porous, and has a texture closer to freeze-dried food—though it’s shelf-stable and doesn’t require refrigeration.
The brand’s core values revolve around transparency, personalization, and quality. Every ingredient is listed clearly, and the company emphasizes that all proteins are human-grade—no meat meals, no by-products, no feed-grade fillers. You start by filling out a questionnaire about your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and any sensitivities, and Spot & Tango generates a personalized meal plan with recommended daily portions. The food arrives with a custom scoop sized to your dog’s needs, which is a nice touch for accuracy and convenience.
In terms of market positioning, UnKibble sits in the premium segment, competing with brands like The Honest Kitchen, Stella & Chewy’s, and other human-grade or minimally processed options. It’s not trying to be the cheapest food on the shelf—it’s targeting owners who want to feed something closer to real food but don’t want to deal with the logistics of fresh or raw diets. The brand has built a strong reputation through direct-to-consumer sales, digital marketing, and word-of-mouth, with consistently high ratings across review platforms.
Spot & Tango operates its own manufacturing facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania, which opened in 2022. This is a big deal because it means they control production directly rather than relying on third-party co-packers. The company also emphasizes that all recipes are formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, which means the same formula can be fed to puppies, adults, and seniors—though portion sizes will vary.
There have been no recalls for UnKibble as of 2025, and the brand hasn’t been involved in any major controversies or legal issues. That’s a strong indicator of reliability, especially in an industry where recalls and quality control problems are more common than most people realize. Spot & Tango also claims full ingredient traceability, though they don’t publish detailed sourcing reports or third-party audit results, which means some of the transparency is based on trust rather than independent verification.
UnKibble offers four core recipes, each built around a single animal protein: beef, chicken, turkey, or cod and salmon. The protein sources are listed as whole meats—beef, chicken breast, turkey breast, cod, and salmon—rather than meals or by-products. This is a meaningful distinction because whole meats retain more moisture and natural nutrients, though they also shrink during cooking, which can make the final protein percentage look lower than it would with concentrated meals.
Protein content across the line ranges from 25% to 27% on a dry matter basis, which is solid for a dry food and comparable to many premium kibbles. The Cod & Salmon recipe hits 27% protein and 17% fat, making it the most calorie-dense option and a good fit for active dogs or those with poultry sensitivities. The Beef & Barley formula also sits at 25% protein but includes organ meats like beef heart and liver, which boost nutrient density and add natural sources of taurine, B vitamins, and iron.
One thing I appreciate is that the proteins are clearly identified—no generic “poultry” or “meat” listings. If your dog has a known allergy, you can confidently avoid certain recipes. The Cod & Salmon formula is marketed as hypoallergenic and is the only grain-free option in the lineup, making it the go-to for dogs with multiple sensitivities.
The grain-inclusive recipes—Beef & Barley, Chicken & Brown Rice, and Turkey & Sweet Potato—use whole grains and starchy vegetables as their primary carbohydrate sources. Barley and brown rice are both digestible, nutrient-dense grains that provide steady energy without the blood sugar spikes you might see with refined grains like white rice or corn. Sweet potato is used across several recipes as a gentler, lower-glycemic carb, and it’s naturally rich in fiber and beta-carotene.
The Cod & Salmon formula swaps grains for sweet potato, tapioca, and pumpkin, which keeps it grain-free while still providing structure and energy. Tapioca is a neutral starch that’s easy to digest, though it doesn’t offer much nutritional value beyond calories. Pumpkin adds fiber and can help with digestive regularity, which is why you’ll often see it in sensitive-stomach formulas.
Carbohydrate levels across the line are estimated at 36% to 40% on a dry matter basis, which is moderate for a dry food. This isn’t a low-carb diet, but it’s also not carb-heavy compared to budget kibbles that lean on corn and wheat as primary ingredients. If you’re feeding an active dog or one with higher energy needs, these carb levels should provide steady fuel without excess.
Fat content ranges from 13% to 17%, with the Cod & Salmon recipe at the higher end. The fats come from the whole proteins themselves, plus added flaxseed, sunflower oil, and salmon oil. Flaxseed is a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids (specifically ALA), while salmon oil provides the more bioavailable EPA and DHA, which are better for joint health, skin, coat, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
These fat levels are appropriate for most adult dogs, though they’re not high enough for extremely active working dogs or puppies with very high calorie needs. For the average pet, though, the balance of protein to fat should support healthy weight maintenance and energy levels without tipping into excess.
Each recipe includes a mix of whole vegetables and fruits—carrots, spinach, parsley, cranberries, blueberries, apples, and pumpkin. These aren’t just filler; they provide fiber, antioxidants, and micronutrients that support immune function, digestion, and overall health. For example, cranberries and blueberries are rich in antioxidants and may support urinary tract health, while leafy greens like spinach contribute vitamins A, C, and K.
The formulas also include a vitamin and mineral blend to meet AAFCO standards, plus added probiotics (dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product) for gut health. The use of mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) as a natural preservative is another positive—there are no artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin.
UnKibble avoids meat meals, by-products, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. There are no controversial ingredients like corn, soy, or wheat gluten, and no fillers like cellulose or beet pulp. The ingredient lists are short and readable, which is a good sign for transparency and quality.
One thing to note: there’s no added glucosamine or chondroitin for joint support, so if you’re feeding a large-breed puppy or a senior dog with arthritis, you may need to supplement separately. The Cod & Salmon recipe’s omega-3 content will help with inflammation, but it’s not a substitute for targeted joint ingredients.
| Price per pound | $7.25 – $11.60 |
| Primary protein | Beef, Chicken, Turkey, Cod & Salmon |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (all life stages) |
| Formula options | 4 recipes (3 grain-inclusive, 1 grain-free) |
| Availability | Direct-to-consumer subscription |
Here’s how the four UnKibble recipes stack up on a dry matter basis:
All four formulas meet or exceed AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages, which means they’re nutritionally complete for puppies, adults, and seniors. This is convenient if you have multiple dogs at different life stages, but it also means the formulas aren’t optimized for any one group—they’re a middle-ground compromise.
Protein levels are strong across the board, though not exceptionally high compared to some grain-free or high-protein kibbles that hit 30% or more. For most pet dogs, 25–27% protein is more than adequate, especially when paired with digestible carbs and healthy fats. The Turkey & Sweet Potato recipe has the lowest fat content at 13%, making it a good option for less active dogs or those prone to weight gain.
Caloric density ranges from 3,979 to 4,193 kcal/kg, which is moderate to moderately high. This means you’ll feed less per day compared to lower-calorie kibbles, which can help offset the higher per-pound cost. For example, a 30-pound dog might need around 1.5 cups per day of UnKibble versus 2+ cups of a standard kibble, so the bag lasts longer than you’d expect.
Spot & Tango provides a custom scoop with each order, sized to your dog’s specific calorie needs. This is a nice touch for accuracy and takes the guesswork out of portioning, though you’ll still want to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust as needed—especially during the first few weeks of feeding.
The vitamin and mineral blend ensures that all recipes meet AAFCO minimums for essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and B vitamins. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is balanced for bone health, which is especially important for growing puppies and large-breed dogs.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are present from flaxseed and salmon oil, though the exact ratios aren’t published. The Cod & Salmon recipe will have the highest omega-3 content due to the fish-based proteins, which is beneficial for dogs with joint issues, dry skin, or inflammatory conditions.
The inclusion of probiotics is a plus for digestive health, though the specific strain (Bacillus coagulans) is more heat-stable than some other probiotics, which is why it survives the cooking and drying process. That said, the colony-forming units (CFUs) aren’t listed, so it’s hard to say how effective the probiotic content really is.
UnKibble is a good fit for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities, especially if you’ve struggled with digestive issues on traditional kibble. The gentle cooking process and whole-food ingredients make it easier to digest than heavily processed foods, and the single-protein recipes make it simple to avoid allergens. The Cod & Salmon formula is particularly well-suited for dogs with poultry or beef allergies.
It’s also a solid choice for picky eaters. The texture and aroma are more appealing than standard kibble, and many owners report that their dogs who turned their noses up at other brands will eagerly eat UnKibble. If your dog is selective or has lost interest in food, this could be a relief.
For owners who want the benefits of fresh food without the logistics, UnKibble is a practical middle ground. You don’t need freezer space, you don’t have to thaw meals, and the food is shelf-stable for months. It’s also easier to travel with than fresh or raw diets, so if you’re frequently on the go, this is a convenient option.
The formulas are appropriate for all life stages, so you can feed the same food to a puppy, adult, and senior dog in the same household—just adjust the portions. That said, if you have a large-breed puppy, you’ll want to be mindful of calcium and phosphorus levels to support healthy growth without overdoing it.
UnKibble isn’t ideal for extremely active dogs or working breeds with very high calorie needs. While the caloric density is moderate, the fat and protein levels aren’t as high as some performance or sport formulas. If you have a dog running agility, doing field work, or exercising intensely for hours a day, you may need to supplement with additional calories or choose a higher-fat recipe.
It’s also not a good fit for dogs on prescription or veterinary diets. UnKibble doesn’t offer formulas for kidney disease, urinary health, weight management, or other medical conditions, so if your dog has been prescribed a specific diet by your vet, stick with that.
For owners on a tight budget, UnKibble is probably not realistic. At $7 to $11 per pound depending on the recipe, it’s significantly more expensive than mainstream kibbles. If cost is your primary concern, you’d be better off with a mid-tier brand like Purina Pro Plan or Blue Buffalo. Not sure whether to choose UnKibble or a more budget-friendly option? Read our other review on dog food from Alpo here.
Finally, if your dog has specific joint support needs, you may need to add a glucosamine supplement. UnKibble doesn’t include joint-specific ingredients, so while the omega-3s will help with inflammation, they won’t replace targeted joint care for dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia.
UnKibble comes in four flavors: Beef & Barley, Chicken & Brown Rice, Turkey & Sweet Potato, and Cod & Salmon. Based on user reviews, Beef & Barley and Cod & Salmon are the most popular, with many owners noting that their dogs eat these recipes enthusiastically. The Chicken & Brown Rice formula is also well-liked, though it was recently discontinued in some markets, so availability may vary.
The texture of UnKibble is noticeably different from traditional kibble. It’s lighter, more porous, and breaks apart easily, which makes it feel more like freeze-dried food than extruded pellets. This can be a plus for older dogs or those with dental issues, as it’s easier to chew and doesn’t require as much jaw strength.
The aroma is also stronger and more natural than standard kibble—it smells like real meat and vegetables rather than the generic “dog food” scent. Some owners find this appealing because it reassures them that the food is made from whole ingredients, though a few have noted that the smell can be a bit strong if you’re storing the bag in a small space.
UnKibble has a success rate of around 80–85% with picky eaters, according to user reviews. Dogs who have been reluctant to eat other kibbles often show more enthusiasm for UnKibble, likely because of the texture and aroma. That said, there are always exceptions—some dogs simply prefer wet food or fresh diets, and no dry food will appeal to every dog.
If your dog is picky, the Turkey & Sweet Potato or Cod & Salmon formulas tend to be the most palatable, possibly because of the milder proteins and gentler carb sources. The Beef & Barley recipe is richer and may be less appealing to dogs with sensitive palates or digestive systems.
The custom scoop that comes with each order is a thoughtful detail. It’s sized to your dog’s calorie needs, so you don’t have to measure with a standard measuring cup or guess at portions. This makes feeding faster and more accurate, especially if you’re feeding multiple dogs with different needs.
The kibble itself is easy to pour and doesn’t create a lot of dust, which is a nice change from some drier kibbles that leave a film of powder at the bottom of the bag. The bags are resealable, though they’re not as heavy-duty as some premium brands, so you may want to transfer the food to an airtight container to keep it fresh.
UnKibble is priced between $7.25 and $11.60 per pound, depending on the recipe and bag size. The grain-inclusive formulas (Beef & Barley, Chicken & Brown Rice, Turkey & Sweet Potato) are on the lower end of that range, while the Cod & Salmon recipe is significantly more expensive at around $10 to $11 per pound.
For a 30-pound dog, you’re looking at roughly $2 to $3.50 per day, depending on the recipe and your dog’s activity level. That’s more than most mid-tier kibbles but less than fully fresh diets like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie, which can run $5 to $8 per day for the same size dog. If you’re comparing UnKibble to other human-grade or minimally processed options like The Farmer’s Dog, it’s actually a more affordable choice—especially if you factor in the convenience of shelf-stable storage.
UnKibble sits in a unique space between traditional kibble and fresh food. It’s more expensive than mainstream brands like Purina, Hill’s, or Blue Buffalo, but it’s also made with higher-quality ingredients and a gentler cooking process. If you’re currently feeding a premium kibble in the $3 to $5 per pound range, UnKibble is a step up in quality, though it comes with a noticeable jump in cost.
Compared to other human-grade brands like The Honest Kitchen or Stella & Chewy’s, UnKibble is competitively priced. The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated formulas can run $8 to $12 per pound, and Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried options are often even higher. UnKibble offers similar ingredient quality and digestibility at a price point that’s slightly lower or on par, depending on the formula.
Whether UnKibble is worth the cost depends on your priorities. If you value ingredient transparency, digestibility, and convenience, and you’re willing to pay a premium for those benefits, then yes—it’s a solid investment. The quality of the ingredients is high, the formulas are well-balanced, and the feeding experience is straightforward.
If you’re primarily focused on getting the most protein or the lowest cost per calorie, UnKibble probably isn’t the best fit. There are cheaper options with similar macronutrient profiles, and there are higher-protein options for the same price. But if you’re looking for a food that bridges the gap between kibble and fresh, UnKibble delivers on that promise.
Spot & Tango operates its own 66,700-square-foot facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania, which opened in 2022. This is a significant advantage because it means the company controls every step of production, from ingredient sourcing to final packaging. They’re not relying on third-party co-packers, which can sometimes lead to inconsistencies or quality issues.
The facility is designed for both fresh and dry food production, and UnKibble is made using the Fresh Dry™ process, which involves gently cooking ingredients at low temperatures and then dehydrating them to remove moisture while preserving nutrients. This process is different from traditional extrusion, which uses high heat and pressure and can degrade some vitamins and enzymes.
All proteins in UnKibble are human-grade and sourced from USDA-approved suppliers. The company emphasizes that ingredients are traceable, though they don’t publish detailed sourcing reports or farm names. This is fairly standard for the industry, but it does mean you’re taking their word for it rather than seeing independent verification.
The fruits, vegetables, and grains are also sourced from U.S. suppliers, and the company claims to prioritize non-GMO ingredients where possible. There are no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and the food is preserved with mixed tocopherols (vitamin E), which is a natural and safe option.
UnKibble has no recalls as of 2025, which is a strong indicator of consistent quality control. Spot & Tango hasn’t been involved in any FDA warnings, lawsuits, or safety controversies, which sets it apart from some larger brands that have had multiple recalls over the years.
The company claims to conduct regular testing for pathogens, heavy metals, and mycotoxins, though they don’t publish third-party lab results or certifications like HACCP or ISO 22000. This is an area where more transparency would be helpful, especially for owners who want to see independent verification of safety claims.
Spot & Tango mentions sustainability as a core value, but the specifics are limited. The company doesn’t publish a formal sustainability report, carbon footprint data, or detailed information about packaging materials. The bags are resealable and appear to be recyclable in some areas, but they’re not compostable or made from fully recycled materials.
The Fresh Dry™ process may have a lower environmental impact than traditional extrusion because it uses less heat and energy, but without published data, it’s hard to say how significant that difference is. If sustainability is a top priority for you, this is one area where UnKibble could improve its transparency.
The company doesn’t publish detailed animal welfare standards or certifications for its protein sources. There’s no mention of Certified Humane, Global Animal Partnership, or similar third-party audits, which would provide more assurance that the animals are raised in humane conditions.
That said, the use of human-grade proteins suggests a higher standard than feed-grade ingredients, which are often sourced from factory farms or lower-welfare operations. If animal welfare is a concern, you may want to reach out to Spot & Tango directly to ask about their sourcing practices.
I volunteer at a local dog shelter, and we recently had the chance to test UnKibble with one of our longer-term residents. Her name is Maple, a six-year-old mixed breed with some shepherd and possibly Lab in the mix. Maple came to us about four months ago after her previous owner passed away, and she’s been a bit of a challenge when it comes to food. She’s not exactly picky, but she’s sensitive—she’s had bouts of loose stools and occasional vomiting with several of the standard kibbles we’ve tried, and her coat has always looked a bit dull and dry.
We decided to try the Turkey & Sweet Potato formula because it’s marketed as gentle on digestion, and we thought the lower fat content might be easier on her stomach. We transitioned her over about a week, mixing increasing amounts of UnKibble with her old food, and by day eight she was eating it exclusively.
The first thing I noticed was that Maple seemed more interested in her meals. With the previous kibble, she’d eat eventually, but she’d often walk away from the bowl and come back later. With UnKibble, she finished her meals within a few minutes and licked the bowl clean. The texture seemed to appeal to her—it’s lighter and breaks apart more easily than traditional kibble, and I think that made it more satisfying to chew.
Over the next three weeks, we saw some clear improvements. Her stools became firmer and more consistent, which was a relief after weeks of dealing with digestive unpredictability. The volume was smaller too, which made cleanup easier for the shelter staff. Her coat also started to look shinier and feel softer, especially around her neck and back. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation, but it was noticeable enough that a couple of volunteers commented on it.
Energy-wise, Maple seemed about the same—she’s always been a moderately active dog, and that didn’t change. She wasn’t bouncing off the walls or suddenly more playful, but she also didn’t seem sluggish or less interested in walks. I’d say her energy level stayed steady, which is exactly what you’d want.
The only minor downside was that the food has a stronger smell than the kibble we’d been using before. It’s not unpleasant—it smells like real meat and vegetables—but it’s more noticeable, especially when you first open the bag. A few of the staff mentioned it, though none of them found it off-putting.
Overall, UnKibble worked well for Maple. It didn’t solve every problem or turn her into a completely different dog, but it made a real difference in her digestion and coat quality, and she seemed to enjoy eating it. For a dog with a sensitive stomach and a history of inconsistent stools, that’s a meaningful improvement.
The most common praise for UnKibble centers on palatability and digestibility. Owners frequently mention that their dogs eat the food enthusiastically, even if they’ve been picky or reluctant with other brands. One user wrote, “My senior dachshund actually eats this every day and has stopped shedding—vet noticed the difference!” Another said, “We switched from expensive fresh food, saved $40/month, and our lab’s digestion improved in less than 10 days.”
Coat and skin improvements are also frequently mentioned, with many owners reporting a shinier coat, softer fur, and reduced shedding within a few weeks. One reviewer noted, “Energy increased, coat became soft, and joint pain lessened. It’s worth every penny.”
Digestive benefits are another major theme. Users report firmer, smaller stools, less gas, and fewer stomach issues. One owner wrote, “After struggling with allergies and stool problems, UnKibble solved both. Two years and counting—so grateful!”
The most common complaints involve cost and palatability issues. Some owners feel the food is too expensive for what you get, especially compared to mid-tier kibbles with similar macronutrient profiles. One reviewer said, “Too expensive and not better than premium kibble I used before.”
A small percentage of dogs refuse to eat UnKibble or stop eating it after a few weeks. One owner wrote, “Dog loved it, then refused after two weeks—no idea why.” This seems to be more common with the Cod & Salmon formula, which some dogs find too fishy.
Digestive issues are rare but do occur. A few users reported loose stools or vomiting, though it’s unclear whether this was due to the food itself or a rushed transition. One owner said, “Dog had loose stools for two weeks; support said to wait, but it didn’t improve.”
There are also occasional complaints about quality inconsistencies, such as bags arriving with a strange odor or batches that seem different from previous orders. One user wrote, “Bag arrived with strong rancid smell; company offered refund, but disappointed.” These reports are infrequent, but they do suggest that quality control isn’t perfect.
The overall sentiment is 87–92% positive, with most users reporting noticeable benefits in digestion, coat quality, and energy. Negative reviews make up only 3–7% of feedback, and most of those are related to cost or individual dogs refusing the food. Spot & Tango’s customer service gets high marks, with most negative reviewers noting that the company responded quickly and offered refunds or replacements.
The Honest Kitchen is the category leader in dehydrated dog food, and it shares many similarities with UnKibble: human-grade ingredients, minimal processing, and a focus on transparency. The main difference is that The Honest Kitchen requires you to add water before feeding, which makes it more like a fresh meal. UnKibble is shelf-stable and can be fed as-is, which is more convenient for some owners.
In terms of price, the two brands are comparable, with The Honest Kitchen running $8 to $12 per pound depending on the formula. Nutritionally, they’re also similar, though The Honest Kitchen offers more variety in terms of recipes and protein options. If you want the convenience of dry food without the need to rehydrate, UnKibble is the better choice. If you prefer a food that’s closer to fresh and don’t mind the extra step, The Honest Kitchen is worth considering.
Stella & Chewy’s is known for freeze-dried raw and raw-coated kibbles, which are minimally processed and nutrient-dense. The freeze-dried formulas are more expensive than UnKibble, often running $12 to $15 per pound, but they’re also higher in protein (typically 35–45%) and lower in carbs.
If you’re looking for a high-protein, low-carb option and you’re willing to pay a premium, Stella & Chewy’s is a strong contender. But if you want a more balanced macronutrient profile with moderate protein and carbs, UnKibble is a better fit. Stella & Chewy’s also has a raw component, which some dogs tolerate better than others—UnKibble is fully cooked, so it’s safer for dogs with compromised immune systems or sensitive stomachs.
Alpo is a budget-tier brand owned by Nestlé Purina, and it’s about as far from UnKibble as you can get in terms of ingredient quality and price. Alpo uses meat and bone meal, by-products, and artificial flavors, and it’s priced at $0.80 to $1.30 per pound—roughly one-seventh the cost of UnKibble.
If your primary concern is affordability, Alpo is a viable option. It meets AAFCO standards and provides complete nutrition, even if the ingredients aren’t as high-quality. But if you care about ingredient transparency, digestibility, or avoiding by-products and fillers, UnKibble is worth the extra cost. The two brands serve completely different markets, and there’s no real overlap in terms of target audience.
Brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Nom Nom offer fresh, gently cooked meals delivered frozen. These are the closest competitors to UnKibble in terms of ingredient quality and philosophy, but they require freezer space and daily thawing, which isn’t practical for everyone.
Fresh diets are generally more expensive than UnKibble, with costs ranging from $5 to $8 per day for a medium dog. UnKibble is more affordable at $2 to $3.50 per day, and it’s shelf-stable, which makes it easier to store and travel with. If you want the benefits of fresh food without the logistics, UnKibble is a solid compromise. If you have the freezer space and you’re willing to pay more for fully fresh meals, brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Nom Nom are excellent choices.
UnKibble is best suited for adult dogs of all sizes with normal to moderate activity levels. The balanced macronutrient profile—25–27% protein, 13–17% fat—works well for pets who aren’t working or competing but still need quality nutrition to support their health and energy.
It’s also a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities. The gentle cooking process and whole-food ingredients make it easier to digest than heavily processed kibbles, and the single-protein recipes make it simple to avoid allergens. The Cod & Salmon formula is particularly well-suited for dogs with poultry or beef allergies.
For picky eaters, UnKibble is worth a try. The texture and aroma are more appealing than standard kibble, and many owners report that their dogs who refused other brands will eat UnKibble eagerly. If your dog has lost interest in food or is selective about what they eat, this could be a relief.
UnKibble is also appropriate for puppies and seniors, since all formulas are AAFCO-compliant for all life stages. That said, if you have a large-breed puppy, you’ll want to be mindful of portion sizes and calcium levels to support healthy growth. For seniors with joint issues, the omega-3 content in the Cod & Salmon formula will help with inflammation, though you may still need to add a glucosamine supplement for targeted joint support.
It’s not ideal for extremely active dogs or working breeds with very high calorie needs. The fat and protein levels are moderate, so if your dog is running agility, doing field work, or exercising intensely for hours a day, you may need to supplement with additional calories or choose a higher-fat recipe.
Yes, UnKibble is a high-quality dog food that delivers on its promises of ingredient transparency, digestibility, and palatability. The formulas are well-balanced, the ingredients are human-grade and clearly labeled, and the gentle cooking process preserves more nutrients than traditional extrusion. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, picky eaters, or owners who want to feed something closer to real food without the hassle of fresh diets, UnKibble is a solid choice.
That said, it’s not perfect. The price is a barrier for some owners, especially if you have a large dog or multiple pets. At $7 to $11 per pound, it’s significantly more expensive than mainstream kibbles, and while the quality justifies the cost, it’s not realistic for everyone. If you’re on a tight budget, there are cheaper options that still meet AAFCO standards, even if the ingredient quality isn’t as high.
The lack of joint-specific ingredients is another limitation. If your dog has arthritis or hip dysplasia, you’ll need to add a separate supplement for glucosamine and chondroitin. The omega-3s in the Cod & Salmon formula will help with inflammation, but they’re not a substitute for targeted joint care.
From a nutritional standpoint, UnKibble is strong. The protein and fat levels are appropriate for most adult dogs, the carbohydrate sources are digestible and nutrient-dense, and the vitamin and mineral blend ensures complete nutrition. The formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, which means you can feed them to puppies, adults, and seniors, though portion sizes will vary.
The safety record is excellent—no recalls, no controversies, no FDA warnings. That’s a big deal in an industry where recalls are more common than most people realize, and it speaks to the company’s commitment to quality control.
Would I buy this for my own dog? If I had a dog with a sensitive stomach, food sensitivities, or a history of being picky, absolutely. The digestibility and palatability are real, and the ingredient quality is top-notch. For a healthy adult dog with no special needs, I’d probably compare it to other options in the same price range—like The Honest Kitchen or Stella & Chewy’s—before committing, but UnKibble would definitely be on my shortlist.
Would I recommend it to a friend? Yes, with the caveat that they need to be comfortable with the price. If they’re already feeding a premium kibble or considering a fresh diet but want something more convenient, UnKibble is a great middle ground. If they’re currently feeding a budget brand and just looking to upgrade without breaking the bank, I’d probably suggest a mid-tier option like Wellness or Nutro first.
Overall, UnKibble is a well-made, thoughtfully formulated dog food that bridges the gap between traditional kibble and fresh diets. It’s not the cheapest option, and it’s not the highest-protein option, but it’s a reliable, transparent, and effective choice for owners who want to feed their dogs real food without the logistics of fresh or raw diets. If that sounds like you, UnKibble is worth trying.
UnKibble uses a gentler cooking process called Fresh Dry™ that preserves more nutrients than traditional extrusion, plus it’s made with human-grade whole meats instead of meat meals or by-products. The ingredient quality is significantly higher than standard kibble, which translates to better digestibility and palatability for most dogs. Whether it’s “better” depends on your priorities—if you value ingredient transparency and digestibility, yes. If you’re primarily focused on cost per pound, probably not.
For a 30-pound dog, you’re looking at roughly $60 to $105 per month, depending on which recipe you choose. The grain-inclusive formulas (Beef & Barley, Turkey & Sweet Potato) are on the lower end, while the Cod & Salmon formula is more expensive. The higher caloric density means you feed less per day than with standard kibbles, which helps offset some of the cost.
Yes, all UnKibble formulas are AAFCO-compliant for all life stages, so they’re nutritionally complete for puppies, adults, and seniors. You’ll just need to adjust the portion sizes based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. For large-breed puppies, be mindful of not overfeeding to support healthy growth rates.
The Cod & Salmon formula is your best bet for dogs with common protein allergies. It’s the only grain-free option and uses fish proteins instead of poultry or beef. Each recipe is built around a single animal protein, so if you know your dog’s specific triggers, you can easily avoid them. The Turkey & Sweet Potato formula is also a good option for dogs sensitive to chicken or beef.
Yes, like any food change, you should transition over 7-10 days by gradually mixing increasing amounts of UnKibble with your dog’s current food. Start with 25% UnKibble and 75% old food for the first few days, then increase to 50/50, then 75/25, and finally 100% UnKibble. This helps prevent digestive upset during the switch.
Once opened, UnKibble should be used within 6-8 weeks for best freshness and nutritional value. Store it in a cool, dry place in the original bag or transfer it to an airtight container. The bags are resealable, but they’re not as heavy-duty as some brands, so an airtight storage container might help maintain freshness longer.
UnKibble has no recalls as of 2025, which is impressive in an industry where recalls are fairly common. Spot & Tango hasn’t been involved in any FDA warnings, lawsuits, or major safety controversies. They manufacture in their own facility in Pennsylvania, which gives them more control over quality than brands that use third-party co-packers.
Many owners report that UnKibble helps with digestive issues, likely because of the gentle cooking process and whole-food ingredients. The single-protein recipes make it easier to identify and avoid triggers, and the lack of artificial preservatives and fillers reduces potential irritants. The Turkey & Sweet Potato formula tends to be the gentlest on sensitive stomachs due to the lower fat content.
Absolutely. UnKibble works well as a base with wet food, bone broth, or other healthy toppers mixed in. Just make sure to account for the extra calories when determining portions to avoid overfeeding. The custom scoop that comes with your order is sized for feeding UnKibble alone, so you’ll need to adjust if you’re adding other foods.
Spot & Tango’s fresh food is fully cooked and delivered frozen, requiring refrigeration and daily thawing. UnKibble uses the same high-quality, human-grade ingredients but is gently dried to make it shelf-stable. The fresh food is more expensive and logistically challenging, while UnKibble offers similar ingredient quality with the convenience of traditional kibble. Think of UnKibble as the middle ground between fresh food and standard kibble.
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