Is It Worth the Money Spent Shipping Dog Food Directly to the Consumer?
Over the past few years, we have witnessed a significant expansion in the range of products available directly to consumers . We are now able to purchase razors, toothbrushes and tampons by subscription, promising not only higher quality but also lower prices. These direct-to-consumer (DTC) products also include dog food , although these companies tend to focus on offering high quality food rather than generating significant cost savings. There are many DTC dog food options out there, but are they worth the money? Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the deal with dog food sold directly to the consumer?
As with other DTC products, part of the beauty of a subscription is that you don’t have to constantly remember to buy what you want. But as reported by NBC News , in most cases, DTC dog food is more about pampering your pet with “better” and more nutritious food than convenience or money saving. These products are intended to fill the gap between affordable dry dog food and really expensive high-end products (probably sold in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store). Brands and services include: Sunday , Tailored , Jinx , Nom Nom, and The Farmer’s Dog .
Is consumer dog food actually healthier?
These DTC dog food companies are betting that people with dogs are willing to pay more for their furry friends’ food if it is better and more convenient for them. But is it really so? Some veterinarians, such as Dr. Christine Neuhauser, MD at Noah’s Ark Animal Clinic , consider feed to be an important part of a dog’s diet. “For dogs, the main benefit of commercially prepared dry dog food is that they eat a complete and balanced diet , ” she told NBC News .
According to Dr. Joseph Waxslag , professor in the Department of Clinical Nutrition, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at the College of Veterinary Medicine in Cornell , the most important thing to consider when choosing a dog food is to make sure it is nutrient-appropriate. standards set by organizations such as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). “If not [complete and balanced], then you need to add vitamins and minerals, ” he told NBC News . “As a veterinary nutritionist, I feel much more comfortable [knowing] that the product is AAFCO compliant.”
This does not mean that DTC dog food does not meet these standards – it is just that it is important that you verify compliance and not simply assume that a higher cost means a higher quality.
Is the price of dog food sold directly to the consumer worth the price?
In short, it all depends on your priorities. If your dog is completely happy with food that meets AAFCO nutritional standards, it may not be worth spending the extra money to upgrade to a more expensive DTC plan. But in cases where your dog may not be eating enough or getting the nutrients it needs, it is worth investing in high quality food that is suitable for humans.
“If you want to feed animals with human-grade foods, it will be more expensive, but if your pet finds it acceptable and really enjoys the meal, I think it’s worth the extra cost,” Veterinarian Dr. Hunter Finn, DVM , told Fast Company . He also recommends only those dog food brands that have a full-time veterinary nutritionist who openly and honestly answer your questions about research, manufacturing, and nutrient profile research.
So it’s ultimately up to you, but while your dog is enjoying a complete and balanced diet, don’t feel like you have to shell out extra money on food for humans.