Let’s be real for a second. Looking at the price of high-end dog food feels a lot like looking at a restaurant menu where none of the entrees have prices listed. You just know it's going to hurt your wallet, but you aren't sure if it's "nice weekend dinner" hurt or "rent is due" hurt. If you’ve been targeted by those sleek ads of slow-motion beef chunks falling into a bowl, you’re probably wondering about the actual cost for a months supply of the farmers dog.
It is not a simple "one size fits all" price tag. Honestly, it's kinda annoying. You can't just walk into a store and grab a bag for $45.99. Because the food is "fresh" and portioned to your specific dog’s metabolism, the price swings wildly.
I’ve seen people pay $60 a month, and I’ve seen people pay $500. That’s a massive gap.
The Math Behind the Bowl
Basically, The Farmer’s Dog doesn't sell by weight; they sell by the calorie. They use an algorithm that looks at your dog's age, activity level, and whether they’re a "chunky monkey" or a "skinny legend."
For a tiny dog—think a 10-pound Yorkie that spends most of its day napping on the sofa—you’re looking at roughly $2.50 to $3.25 per day. Do the math, and that’s a monthly cost of about $75 to $98. That’s manageable for most folks who want to skip the kibble.
But things get spicy when you have a big dog.
👉 See also: The Gospel of Matthew: What Most People Get Wrong About the First Book of the New Testament
If you own a 75-pound Golden Retriever that loves to hike, the daily cost jumps to about $7.50 or $8.00. Suddenly, your cost for a months supply of the farmers dog is hitting $225 to $240.
Real-World Pricing Estimates (2026 Data)
To give you a clearer picture, here is how the numbers generally shake out based on the latest 2026 pricing tiers. Keep in mind, these are averages—your actual quote will vary based on whether you choose the Turkey, Beef, Chicken, or Pork recipes (Lamb usually costs about 10-15% more).
- Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): You’ll likely spend between $63 and $105 per month.
- Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs): This is the sweet spot for many, landing between $96 and $144 per month.
- Large Dogs (50–100 lbs): Prepare your bank account for $140 to $230 per month.
- Giant Breeds (100+ lbs): This is where it gets wild. A Great Dane can easily cost $400 to $500+ per month.
Why is it so expensive?
It’s human-grade. That’s the buzzword they use, but what it actually means is that the food is made in USDA-inspected kitchens. You could technically eat it. (Don't, though. It's unseasoned and probably tastes like bland meatloaf).
Traditional kibble is "rendered." That’s a polite way of saying they take leftover animal parts, cook them at massive temperatures until the nutrients are basically dead, and then spray them with fats and vitamins so dogs will actually eat it. Fresh food like this is gently cooked. It preserves the moisture.
Veterinary nutritionists like those at the American College of Veterinary Nutrition often point out that fresh diets have around 70-80% meat content. Compare that to the 15-25% you find in "premium" dry food. You’re paying for the protein.
✨ Don't miss: God Willing and the Creek Don't Rise: The True Story Behind the Phrase Most People Get Wrong
The Sneaky Costs Nobody Mentions
There’s a hidden "cost" to fresh food that isn't just the dollar amount.
Freezer space. You’re going to get a massive box of frozen bricks every few weeks. If you have a tiny apartment fridge, you’re going to be playing Tetris with your frozen peas and Lean Cuisines just to fit your dog's dinner.
Also, the packaging. Some users find the pouches a bit messy. You have to squeeze the food out, and if you don't use a clip, it can make your fridge smell like... well, wet dog food.
How to Lower the Monthly Bill
If the cost for a months supply of the farmers dog makes you want to cry, you have options. You don't have to go "all or nothing."
- The "Topper" Strategy: This is my favorite hack. You tell the website you want to use the food as a "topper" instead of a full meal. You mix a smaller portion of the fresh food with high-quality kibble. This cuts your monthly cost by 50% or more while still giving your dog those fresh nutrients.
- The DIY Route: The Farmer's Dog actually sells a "Nutrient Blend." They give you the recipes for free, you buy the meat and veggies at the grocery store, and you just add their powder. It’s a lot of work, but it saves about 40% compared to the pre-made plan.
- Subscription Frequency: Adjusting your delivery to every 4-6 weeks sometimes unlocks slight shipping discounts or "bulk" pricing, though this depends on your dog's portion size.
Is it actually worth it?
Honestly? It depends on your dog.
🔗 Read more: Kiko Japanese Restaurant Plantation: Why This Local Spot Still Wins the Sushi Game
If you have a dog with "mystery allergies" that makes them itch constantly, or a senior dog that has stopped eating their kibble, the price is often worth the lack of vet bills. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association has noted that better nutrition can lead to fewer skin issues and better weight management.
However, if you have a perfectly healthy 2-year-old Lab and a tight budget, spending $200 a month might be overkill. You can find high-quality air-dried or "gently baked" kibbles that bridge the gap for half the price.
Actionable Steps for Your Budget
Before you commit, do these three things to make sure you aren't overspending:
- Take the 90-second quiz: Go to their site and get an actual quote. Don't guess. The "introductory offer" is usually 50% off, so your first two weeks will be very cheap.
- Clear out your freezer: Make sure you actually have room for 14 to 28 days of food.
- Check the ingredients: If your dog is allergic to chicken, make sure you uncheck the chicken recipe, or the "cheap" price they show you might go up when you switch to the more expensive beef or lamb options.
At the end of the day, the cost for a months supply of the farmers dog is an investment in your dog's longevity. It's a lot of money, sure. But if it keeps them around for an extra year or two without chronic health issues, most of us would say that's money well spent.