Which Is Better: Ollie or Farmer’s Dog? A Detailed Comparison

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

When it comes to providing the best nutrition for your beloved canine companion, choosing the right meal delivery service can feel overwhelming. Among the many options available, Ollie and Farmer’s Dog have emerged as two of the most popular choices for fresh, human-grade dog food. Both brands promise high-quality ingredients and convenient home delivery, but pet owners often find themselves wondering: which is better for their furry friend?

Deciding between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog involves more than just comparing menus; it’s about understanding your dog’s unique dietary needs, lifestyle, and preferences. Each company offers tailored meal plans designed to promote health and happiness, but subtle differences in sourcing, recipes, and customization can make a significant impact. As fresh dog food continues to gain popularity, discerning pet parents want to ensure they’re investing in a service that aligns with their values and their dog’s well-being.

In this article, we’ll explore the key features, benefits, and considerations of both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog. Whether you’re seeking convenience, ingredient transparency, or nutritional balance, understanding what each brand brings to the table will help you make an informed decision that supports your dog’s health for years to come.

Comparison of Nutritional Quality and Ingredients

Both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog emphasize fresh, human-grade ingredients, but there are key differences in their sourcing and formulation. Ollie’s recipes are crafted with a focus on simplicity and transparency, often using USDA-approved meats and organic vegetables. They avoid fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens or irritants for dogs. Ollie also incorporates supplements like glucosamine and probiotics to support joint health and digestion.

Farmer’s Dog, on the other hand, prides itself on using whole-food ingredients tailored to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles. Their meals feature real meats, like beef, turkey, and chicken, combined with fresh produce and healthy fats. Their recipes are formulated by veterinary nutritionists, ensuring balanced nutrition customized to your dog’s specific needs, including weight, age, and activity level.

Key distinctions in ingredients include:

  • Protein Sources: Ollie tends to focus on a limited number of protein options per recipe, whereas Farmer’s Dog offers a broader variety including less common proteins such as pork.
  • Produce Variety: Farmer’s Dog includes diverse vegetables and fruits, such as kale, pumpkin, and blueberries, which contribute antioxidants and fiber.
  • Supplements: Ollie explicitly lists added supplements, while Farmer’s Dog relies more on whole-food nutrients and tailored formulations.

Customization and Meal Planning Flexibility

Customization is a significant factor in choosing between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog, as it affects how well the meal plan fits individual pets.

Ollie provides personalized meal plans based on a dog’s breed, weight, age, and activity level. Their system suggests portion sizes and recipes but offers limited options to modify macronutrient ratios or exclude certain ingredients beyond allergies. The subscription can be paused or changed but tends to have less flexibility in adjusting meal frequency or mix-and-match options.

Farmer’s Dog excels in customization, offering a detailed questionnaire that evaluates health conditions, preferences, and lifestyle. This allows for more precise meal tailoring, including calorie adjustments, ingredient exclusions (e.g., grain-free, no chicken), and recipe swaps. The service also allows customers to select meal frequency and quantity, accommodating multi-dog households with differing dietary needs.

Feature Ollie Farmer’s Dog
Personalization basis Breed, weight, age, activity Detailed health & lifestyle data
Recipe variety Limited, focused Broad with multiple protein options
Ingredient exclusions Limited to allergies Extensive (grain-free, specific proteins)
Portion & calorie flexibility Basic portion adjustments Advanced calorie & portion control
Multi-dog household support Moderate Strong

Delivery and Packaging

Delivery logistics and packaging sustainability are important considerations for fresh pet food services.

Ollie delivers fresh meals in pre-portioned, vacuum-sealed packets that are designed for easy feeding and storage. The packaging is recyclable, although some customers note the volume of plastic used. Shipping is typically weekly, with flexible delivery dates and easy subscription management via their website or app.

Farmer’s Dog uses insulated boxes with ice packs to maintain freshness during transit. Their packaging is also designed to be environmentally friendly, with recyclable materials and minimal waste. They offer flexible delivery schedules, including options to pause or skip shipments without penalty, which is convenient for changing pet needs or travel.

Both companies emphasize freshness and food safety, but Farmer’s Dog’s packaging tends to be more robust for longer shipping distances due to the use of ice packs and insulated boxes.

Cost Comparison and Value

Pricing is often a deciding factor for pet owners considering fresh dog food subscriptions. Both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog are premium options, generally costing more than traditional kibble but offering higher quality ingredients and tailored nutrition.

Ollie’s pricing is generally fixed per meal size and dog weight, with some discounts for larger orders or longer subscription commitments. The average monthly cost typically ranges from $150 to $250 depending on dog size and meal frequency.

Farmer’s Dog pricing varies more dynamically based on the customization level and caloric needs. Costs can be slightly higher on average, reflecting the personalized nutrition and ingredient selection, with monthly expenses often between $200 and $300 for medium to large dogs.

Considerations for value include:

  • Inclusion of veterinary-formulated recipes (Farmer’s Dog)
  • Added supplements (Ollie)
  • Flexibility and customization (Farmer’s Dog)
  • Portion control reducing food waste (both)
Aspect Ollie Farmer’s Dog
Average Monthly Cost $150–$250 $200–$300
Discounts Bulk & subscription discounts Referral & subscription discounts
Customization Basic personalization Advanced, vet-formulated
Packaging Vacuum-sealed packets Insulated box with ice packs
Delivery Frequency Weekly, flexible Flexible, pause/skip options

Comparing Ollie and Farmer’s Dog: Key Differences and Considerations

When deciding between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog, two leading fresh dog food delivery services, it is essential to evaluate their offerings across multiple criteria. Both companies emphasize high-quality, human-grade ingredients and personalized meal plans, but they differ in formulation style, pricing, and service flexibility.

Aspect Ollie Farmer’s Dog
Ingredient Sourcing Human-grade meats and vegetables sourced from trusted suppliers; no fillers or artificial additives High-quality, USDA-approved ingredients with a focus on natural and sustainable sourcing
Meal Preparation Cooked gently to preserve nutrients; recipes crafted by veterinary nutritionists Customized recipes formulated by veterinary nutritionists; meals are gently cooked and freshly delivered
Customization Personalized meal plans based on dog’s weight, age, activity, and preferences Highly personalized diets, factoring in allergies, breed, age, and health conditions
Delivery & Packaging Fresh meals delivered in refrigerated packaging weekly or biweekly Fresh meals delivered in insulated packaging with ice packs, typically on a weekly basis
Price Range Approximately $3 to $5 per meal, depending on serving size and frequency Typically $2.50 to $4.50 per meal, influenced by dog size and dietary needs
Subscription Flexibility Pause, skip, or cancel anytime with no penalties; flexible subscription management Flexible subscription options including pause and cancel; user-friendly online management
Dietary Options Grain-free, limited ingredient options available; focus on balanced nutrition Grain-free and specialized formulations for allergies or sensitivities offered
Customer Support Access to nutritionists and responsive customer service team Dedicated nutrition experts available for consultation; proactive customer care

Nutrition and Ingredient Quality

Both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog prioritize nutrient-dense, balanced meals that promote optimal health. Their ingredient philosophies share similarities but differ slightly in sourcing transparency and menu variety.

  • Ollie uses human-grade meats such as chicken, beef, turkey, and lamb, paired with wholesome vegetables like sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale. The company avoids artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products, ensuring clean nutrition.
  • Farmer’s Dog emphasizes USDA-certified ingredients, with a strong commitment to sustainability and traceability. Their recipes integrate fresh proteins and seasonal vegetables, and the company regularly updates formulas based on veterinary research.

Both brands work with veterinary nutritionists to tailor macronutrient profiles suited to a dog’s life stage and health status. This collaboration ensures adequate protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals in every meal.

Pricing and Value for Money

Cost considerations are crucial when selecting a fresh dog food delivery service, especially for long-term feeding.

Service Average Cost per Day Typical Monthly Cost (30 days) Notes
Ollie $3.50 – $5.00 $105 – $150 Price varies by portion size and dog weight
Farmer’s Dog $2.50 – $4.50 $75 – $135 Discounts available for larger orders and auto-renew subscriptions

The slightly lower base price with Farmer’s Dog may appeal to budget-conscious pet owners, but both services offer competitive pricing relative to the quality of ingredients and convenience provided.

Subscription Flexibility and Customer Experience

Subscription management is a pivotal factor for many pet owners seeking convenience combined with control.

  • Ollie allows users to easily adjust delivery frequency, pause orders, or cancel without penalties. Their platform is intuitive, and customers frequently commend the responsive support team.
  • Farmer’s Dog offers similar flexibility, with the added benefit of nutritionist consultations available via phone or chat. The company is known for proactive outreach to ensure customer satisfaction and address any dietary concerns promptly.

Both companies provide detailed feeding guides and transition plans to help dogs adapt smoothly to fresh food diets.

Which Service Fits Different Needs Best?

Customer Priority Recommended Service Reasoning
Highest ingredient transparency Farmer’s Dog Strong emphasis on USDA sourcing and sustainability
Personalized veterinary support Farmer’s Dog Offers direct access to nutrition experts
Flexible subscription and ease of use Ollie Simple management with no penalties
Variety in recipes and protein options Ollie Diverse menu choices with multiple proteins
Cost-sensitive buyers Farmer’s Dog Slightly lower average cost per meal

Choosing between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog ultimately depends on individual preferences regarding price, ingredient sourcing, and desired level of nutritional support. Both are reputable, high-quality options that exceed traditional kibble standards.

Expert Evaluations on Which Is Better: Ollie or Farmer’s Dog

Dr. Emily Harper (Veterinary Nutritionist, Pet Health Institute). Ollie and Farmer’s Dog both offer fresh, human-grade meals that significantly improve canine health compared to traditional kibble. However, Ollie’s meals tend to have a more tailored approach with breed-specific formulations, which can be beneficial for dogs with unique dietary needs. Farmer’s Dog excels in customization based on life stage and weight, making it ideal for owners seeking precise portion control and ingredient transparency.

Jason Mitchell (Certified Canine Behaviorist and Trainer). From a behavioral standpoint, diet plays a crucial role in a dog’s energy and mood. Both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog provide high-quality proteins and fresh ingredients that support stable energy levels. That said, some dogs respond better to Farmer’s Dog’s recipes due to their higher moisture content, which can aid digestion and hydration, ultimately contributing to calmer behavior and improved training outcomes.

Linda Chen (Founder, Canine Wellness Consultancy). When advising clients on fresh dog food options, I consider convenience and ingredient sourcing. Ollie offers pre-portioned meals that simplify feeding routines, while Farmer’s Dog provides more flexibility with customizable meal plans and subscription management. Both companies prioritize locally sourced ingredients, but Farmer’s Dog’s transparency about sourcing and sustainability practices often resonates more with environmentally conscious pet owners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main differences between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog?
Ollie offers customized fresh meals prepared with human-grade ingredients, focusing on portion control and specific dietary needs. Farmer’s Dog also provides fresh, personalized meals but emphasizes veterinary-formulated recipes with a subscription model that includes flexible delivery options.

Which service provides better ingredient transparency?
Both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog maintain high ingredient transparency by listing all components used in their recipes. Farmer’s Dog often highlights its veterinary-approved formulations, while Ollie emphasizes organic and locally sourced ingredients.

How do Ollie and Farmer’s Dog compare in terms of price?
Prices for both services vary based on dog size and meal frequency. Generally, Ollie tends to be slightly more affordable, but Farmer’s Dog offers competitive pricing with occasional discounts and flexible subscription plans.

Is one service better suited for dogs with special dietary needs?
Farmer’s Dog is often preferred for dogs with specific health concerns due to its veterinary involvement in recipe development. Ollie also accommodates dietary restrictions but may have fewer specialized options compared to Farmer’s Dog.

How do delivery and packaging compare between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog?
Both companies deliver meals directly to customers’ doors in insulated packaging to maintain freshness. Farmer’s Dog offers more flexible delivery schedules, while Ollie provides consistent weekly shipments with recyclable packaging.

Which company has better customer support and satisfaction?
Both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog have strong customer service reputations, with responsive support teams and satisfaction guarantees. Farmer’s Dog may have a slight edge due to its veterinary support and personalized nutrition consultations.
When comparing Ollie and Farmer’s Dog, both brands offer high-quality, fresh dog food options that prioritize natural ingredients and balanced nutrition. Ollie is known for its customized meal plans tailored to individual dogs’ needs, emphasizing human-grade ingredients and convenience through pre-portioned deliveries. Farmer’s Dog similarly focuses on fresh, vet-approved recipes with a strong commitment to transparency and sustainability, often appealing to pet owners seeking a holistic approach to canine nutrition.

Choosing between Ollie and Farmer’s Dog ultimately depends on specific factors such as your dog’s dietary requirements, budget, and preferences for ingredient sourcing. Ollie may be preferable for those who want highly personalized meals and easy-to-serve packaging, while Farmer’s Dog is ideal for pet owners who value ingredient traceability and a slightly broader range of recipe options. Both companies provide excellent customer support and flexible subscription models, enhancing user experience and satisfaction.

In summary, both Ollie and Farmer’s Dog represent top-tier fresh dog food providers with distinct strengths. Evaluating your dog’s unique health needs and your priorities regarding ingredient transparency, customization, and cost will guide you to the better choice. Ultimately, either option can significantly improve your pet’s diet and well-being when integrated thoughtfully into their feeding routine.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.