Is A Pup Above Dog Food Right for Your Pet?
When it comes to choosing the best nutrition for your furry best friend, the options can feel absolutely overwhelming. From kibble to fresh-frozen alternatives, the dog food market has exploded with choices—and A Pup Above has become a name that keeps popping up in conversations at dog parks and vet offices alike. But is this fresh dog food brand actually worth the premium price tag, or is it just another trendy option riding the wave of the fresh-food movement?
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into what makes A Pup Above tick, how it stacks up against competitors, and most importantly, whether it’s the right choice for your specific pup. Whether your dog has a sensitive stomach, needs to shed a few pounds, or you simply want to give them the best nutrition possible, we’ve got the answers you’re looking for.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about this popular fresh dog food brand and help you make an informed decision that’ll have your tail-wagging friend thanking you at mealtime.
What Is A Pup Above Dog Food?
A Pup Above is a fresh, gently cooked dog food brand that positions itself as a premium alternative to traditional kibble. Unlike dry dog food that’s been heavily processed and shelf-stable for months, A Pup Above uses a gentle cooking method that aims to preserve nutrients while eliminating harmful pathogens. Think of it as the difference between a home-cooked meal and a TV dinner—both fill your stomach, but one feels a whole lot better.
The company was founded with a mission to provide dogs with food that more closely resembles what their wild ancestors might have eaten, minus the hunting and minus the raw meat concerns. Their recipes typically feature real meat as the primary ingredient, combined with vegetables, fruits, and supplements to create a complete and balanced diet.
What sets A Pup Above apart from some competitors is their specific cooking process. Rather than raw feeding (which carries food safety risks) or high-heat processing (which can destroy nutrients), they use a proprietary gently-cooked method that falls somewhere in the middle. The food arrives at your door in a refrigerated state, which means you’ll need freezer space and a bit of planning ahead.
Ingredients and Quality Standards
When evaluating any dog food, the ingredient list is your starting point. A Pup Above publishes their ingredients transparently, and what you’ll typically find includes real proteins like beef, chicken, turkey, or pork as the first ingredient. This is excellent—your dog is a carnivore at heart, after all.
Beyond the protein, you’ll find vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans, along with fruits such as apples and blueberries. These aren’t just fillers; they provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO standards, which means they’ve been tested for nutritional completeness and balance.
One thing to note: A Pup Above does not use artificial preservatives, by-products, or corn, wheat, and soy. For dogs with grain sensitivities, this can be a game-changer. However, it’s important to understand that “grain-free” doesn’t automatically mean better—some dogs do just fine with grains, and grain-free diets have been scrutinized by veterinary researchers in recent years.
The sourcing of ingredients appears to be a priority for the brand. They work with suppliers to maintain quality standards, though like most pet food companies, they don’t own all their own production facilities. The gently-cooked process means ingredients are heated to a lower temperature than traditional kibble manufacturing, theoretically preserving more of the nutritional value and bioavailability of the food.
Nutrition Profile and Benefits
So what does your dog actually get when they’re eating A Pup Above? Let’s break down the nutritional benefits:
- Higher moisture content: Fresh food contains significantly more water than kibble, which can help with hydration and digestion. This is particularly beneficial for dogs who don’t drink enough water.
- Improved digestibility: The gently-cooked preparation method can make nutrients more available for your dog’s body to absorb and utilize.
- Real whole foods: Unlike some kibbles where meat is rendered down into meals, A Pup Above uses recognizable meat sources that you could theoretically eat yourself.
- Balanced nutrition: Each recipe is formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition, including essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
- Variety of proteins: The brand offers multiple protein options, which can be helpful if your dog needs to rotate proteins or has sensitivities.
Many dog owners report that their pets experience shinier coats, healthier skin, and improved energy levels after switching to fresh food options. Some also notice improvements in stool quality—a telltale sign of better digestion. If you’re concerned about why your dog is always hungry, switching to a more digestible food might help them feel more satisfied with appropriate portions.
Pricing and Value Comparison
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cost. A Pup Above is significantly more expensive than traditional kibble. You’re looking at roughly $4-7 per pound compared to $1-3 for most premium kibbles. For a 50-pound dog, that’s a substantial difference in your monthly pet food budget.
However, when considering value, it’s worth looking at the total picture. Some dog owners argue that premium fresh food can reduce veterinary bills by promoting better health. Others find that their dogs feel more satisfied, potentially reducing the urge to beg or eat non-food items. When comparing fresh food options, evaluating FreshPet and similar brands might reveal comparable pricing across the fresh food category.
It’s also worth considering portion sizes. Fresh food is typically more nutrient-dense than kibble, which can mean you feed less volume. While you’re paying more per pound, you might actually use less total food, which could offset some of the price difference. Understanding how much food you should feed your dog is crucial for maximizing value and maintaining proper weight.
For budget-conscious pet parents, A Pup Above might work best as a supplement to kibble rather than a complete replacement. Many owners mix a portion of fresh food with their regular kibble to get some of the benefits without the full cost.
Real Results from Real Dogs
While testimonials aren’t scientific evidence, they do paint an interesting picture. A Pup Above has thousands of positive reviews from dog owners who report visible improvements in their pets’ health and happiness. Common themes include:
- Improved coat quality and reduced shedding
- Better digestion and healthier stools
- Increased energy and enthusiasm
- Weight management without hunger
- Reduction in itching and skin issues
- Better breath and dental health
However, not every dog thrives on A Pup Above. Some dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs may experience digestive upset during the transition. This is normal when changing any dog food and typically resolves with a gradual transition period. Additionally, some owners report that their dogs simply don’t prefer the taste or texture compared to traditional kibble—picky eaters exist in the canine world too!
The ASPCA provides guidelines for pet nutrition that can help you evaluate whether any food, including A Pup Above, meets your dog’s specific needs.
Potential Concerns and Drawbacks
Every product has its limitations, and A Pup Above is no exception. Here are some genuine concerns to consider:
- Storage and convenience: You need freezer space and must plan meals in advance. This isn’t grab-and-go like kibble. If you travel frequently or have limited freezer space, this could be problematic.
- Cost: As mentioned, the price point is substantial for many households. If you have multiple large dogs or a tight budget, fresh food might not be feasible.
- Limited availability: A Pup Above is primarily available online, so you can’t pop into a local store if you run out unexpectedly.
- Transition period required: You’ll need to gradually introduce A Pup Above to avoid digestive upset, which means patience and planning.
- Individual variation: Just like humans, not every dog’s digestive system responds the same way to dietary changes.
- Shelf life: Once thawed, the food needs to be used within a certain timeframe, typically 4 days. This requires good meal planning.
It’s also worth noting that while fresh food sounds inherently healthier, it’s not automatically superior to all other options. Some high-quality kibbles from brands like Purina Pro Plan are formulated by veterinary nutritionists and provide excellent nutrition at a fraction of the cost.
How to Transition Your Dog to A Pup Above
If you decide to try A Pup Above, transitioning properly is crucial. A rushed diet change can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and vomiting. Here’s the proper way to do it:
- Week 1: Mix 25% A Pup Above with 75% of their current food
- Week 2: Mix 50% A Pup Above with 50% of their current food
- Week 3: Mix 75% A Pup Above with 25% of their current food
- Week 4: Feed 100% A Pup Above
Some dogs with particularly sensitive digestive systems might need an even slower transition. Watch for signs of digestive upset, and if you notice your dog experiencing diarrhea, slow down the transition process. It’s also a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making major dietary changes, especially if your dog has existing health conditions.
The transition period is also a great time to monitor your dog’s response. Are they more energetic? Is their coat looking better? Are they maintaining a healthy weight? These observations will help you determine if A Pup Above is truly the right fit for your specific pet.
Comparing to Similar Brands
A Pup Above isn’t the only fresh dog food on the market. If you’re considering making the switch to fresh food, it’s worth comparing options:
Fresh Pet: Another popular fresh option, FreshPet offers similar benefits with slightly different pricing and formulations. They use a similar fresh approach but with some variations in sourcing and cooking methods.
Nom Nom: This brand offers human-grade ingredients and customizable meal plans based on your dog’s specific needs. It’s comparable in price to A Pup Above.
The Farmer’s Dog: Another subscription-based fresh food service with similar positioning. They emphasize locally-sourced ingredients and offer personalized meal plans.
Purina Pro Plan: If you want to stick with kibble but get premium nutrition, Purina Pro Plan is a good dog food option formulated by veterinary nutritionists with various specialized recipes.
The choice between these options often comes down to personal preference, budget, and your specific dog’s needs. Some owners find that a combination approach works best—mixing fresh food with quality kibble to balance cost and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Pup Above safe for all dogs?
A Pup Above is generally safe for most healthy adult dogs. However, puppies, senior dogs, dogs with certain health conditions, and pregnant or nursing dogs may have specific nutritional needs. Always consult with your veterinarian before switching to a new food, especially if your dog has health issues. The AAFCO provides standards that foods must meet, but individual dogs may have unique requirements.
Can I mix A Pup Above with regular kibble?
Absolutely! In fact, many dog owners do exactly this. Mixing fresh food with kibble can provide some of the benefits of fresh food while reducing the overall cost. Just ensure the combined meal still provides complete and balanced nutrition. If you’re unsure, consult with a veterinary nutritionist.
How long does A Pup Above last once thawed?
Once thawed, A Pup Above typically lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator. This is why meal planning is important. Many owners thaw only what they need for a few days to avoid waste.
Will my picky dog eat A Pup Above?
Some picky eaters love the taste and texture of fresh food, while others prefer the crunch of kibble. There’s really no way to know until you try. The brand does offer a satisfaction guarantee on some offerings, so you might be able to try it with minimal risk.
Is A Pup Above better than high-quality kibble?
“Better” depends on your dog’s individual needs and your priorities. Fresh food offers benefits like higher moisture content and potentially better digestibility, but premium kibble formulated by veterinary nutritionists can also provide excellent nutrition. The best food is the one that keeps your dog healthy, maintains an ideal weight, and fits your lifestyle and budget.
Can dogs with chicken broth in their diet also eat A Pup Above?
Yes, there’s no conflict. In fact, adding chicken broth to your dog’s diet can complement fresh food nicely. Just ensure the broth is low-sodium and doesn’t contain onions or garlic, which are toxic to dogs.
How does A Pup Above compare nutritionally to raw feeding?
A Pup Above is gently cooked, which eliminates many food safety concerns associated with raw feeding while still preserving more nutrients than traditional kibble. Raw feeding carries risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances if not carefully formulated. A Pup Above offers a middle ground that many veterinarians consider safer while still providing fresh food benefits.
