Which is Better, Sundays for Dogs or The Farmer’s Dog? A Complete Comparison

Choosing the right food for your dog is one of the most important decisions a pet owner makes. With increasing awareness about canine nutrition, many owners are moving away from kibble and exploring fresh, human-grade dog food options. Two of the most talked-about brands in this category are Sundays for Dogs and The Farmer’s Dog. Both emphasize high-quality, fresh ingredients and tailored nutrition. But which one truly delivers better results for your furry friend?

This in-depth analysis explores food quality, ingredients, pricing, customization, convenience, and customer satisfaction to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned owner or new to fresh dog food, this guide will break down everything you need to know about Sundays for Dogs vs. The Farmer’s Dog.

Understanding the Fresh Dog Food Trend

Before diving into the comparison, it’s essential to understand why fresh dog food is becoming increasingly popular. For decades, dogs were primarily fed kibble, which is often packed with preservatives, fillers, and processed ingredients. However, modern research suggests that fresh, minimally processed meals offer superior nutritional benefits.

Fresh dog food brands like Sundays and The Farmer’s Dog aim to provide meals that mirror what dogs would naturally eat—whole meats, vegetables, and healthy fats without artificial additives. These diets are designed to support better digestion, shinier coats, higher energy levels, and long-term health.

Company Background: Sundays for Dogs vs. The Farmer’s Dog

Sundays for Dogs: Simplicity and Transparency

Founded with a mission to make fresh dog food affordable and sustainable, Sundays for Dogs positions itself as a clean, no-nonsense option. The brand emphasizes eco-friendly packaging, batch cooking to reduce waste, and a streamlined menu of four recipes suitable for most dogs.

Sundays’ unique selling proposition lies in its focus on sustainability and affordability. The meals are gently cooked (not raw), flash-frozen, and shipped across the U.S. The company offers a minimalist approach—fewer choices, but each one thoughtfully formulated.

The Farmer’s Dog: Customization and Premium Quality

In contrast, The Farmer’s Dog (often abbreviated as TFD) markets itself as a premium fresh dog food brand with a strong emphasis on personalization. Founded by Jonathan Regev and Brett Podolsky, the company collaborates with veterinarians and pet nutritionists to develop vet-approved recipes tailored to your dog’s age, weight, breed, and activity level.

TFD uses human-grade ingredients, gently cooked and delivered fresh (never frozen) in pre-portioned packages. The goal is to replicate the kind of fresh, home-cooked meals a dog might get from a dedicated owner, but with scientific precision.

Ingredient Quality and Recipe Formulation

One of the most critical factors in evaluating dog food is the quality and source of ingredients. Let’s compare how each brand performs.

Sundays for Dogs: Wholesome and Minimalist

Sundays offers four core recipes:

• Chicken & Turkey
• Beef & Turkey
• Chicken & Lamb
• Beef & Lamb

Each recipe features human-grade meats as the primary ingredient, paired with vegetables like spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Notable features include:

Top Ingredients

• Humanely raised proteins (e.g., cage-free chicken, grass-fed beef)
• Organic produce when possible
• Healthy fats from coconut and flaxseed oil
• No artificial preservatives, fillers, or by-products

Sundays avoids complex formulations. Their meals are nutritionally balanced but designed to serve the majority. The recipes are AAFCO-compliant, meaning they meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials for adult dogs.

Pros

• Eco-friendly, compostable packaging
• Transparent sourcing—farm info available on site
• Batch-cooked to minimize waste

Cons

• Less customization for individual dogs
• Only one life stage supported (adults)
• Limited variety for dogs with special dietary needs

The Farmer’s Dog: Personalized Nutrition

The Farmer’s Dog takes a highly individualized approach. Upon signing up, customers complete an in-depth questionnaire about their dog. Based on the input, TFD creates a customized feeding plan.

Their recipes include:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Ham (limited availability)

Each meal is made with whole-food ingredients—no meals, no fillers. Recipes typically include:

• Lean meats (e.g., USDA-inspected chicken)
• Fiber-rich vegetables (broccoli, green beans, squash)
• Healthy fats (sunflower oil, salmon oil)
• Vitamins and minerals (added naturally or supplemented)

All TFD meals are gently cooked using sous-vide techniques to preserve nutrients and eliminate pathogens. Meals are delivered fresh and must be refrigerated upon arrival.

Pros

• Vet-developed, personalized meal plans
• Formulated for puppies, adults, seniors, and active dogs
• Real-time adjustments based on weight, allergies, etc.
• Strong emphasis on digestibility and palatability

Cons

• More expensive than Sundays
• Greater environmental impact due to frequent fresh shipments
• Some users report inconsistency with delivery timing

Nutritional Analysis: What’s Really in the Food?

To determine which brand is better, we need to evaluate the actual nutritional content. While both claim to be “nutritionally complete,” let’s compare calorie density, protein levels, and overall balance.

Macronutrient Profile (Average Per 1 lb)

Key Insight: The Farmer’s Dog offers a higher protein and fat content, especially important for active dogs or breeds with higher metabolic demands. Sundays, while balanced, is closer to maintenance-level nutrition.

That said, Sundays’ lower-calorie density can be beneficial for less active or overweight dogs. The brand allows owners to adjust portions conservatively, which supports weight management.

Customization and Personalization

Sundays: One Size Fits Most

Sundays takes a “batch-and-serve” approach. Rather than customizing meals for each dog, the brand offers a universal plan suitable for adult dogs. You choose a recipe and portion size based on your dog’s weight.

Advantages include:

• Simplicity: no lengthy onboarding form
• Faster delivery: meals are pre-prepared
• More predictable cost: less variable pricing

However, this lack of customization means that dogs with specific health issues—such as food sensitivities, allergies, or medical conditions like pancreatitis—may not get optimal nutrition unless supplemented.

The Farmer’s Dog: Tailor-Made Meals

TFD’s customization process is one of its standout features. The brand considers:

• Age and life stage
• Weight and ideal body condition
• Breed-specific needs
• Activity level
• Current health conditions

For example, a senior, low-energy Labrador will receive a different calorie plan and ingredient balance than a high-energy Border Collie puppy. The platform also allows adjustments over time—say, if your dog gains weight or starts a new exercise regimen.

This level of personalization ensures that your dog receives precisely what they need, not just what’s convenient. It’s particularly beneficial for:

• Dogs with allergies (TFD can omit common allergens)
• Overweight dogs (controlled calorie intake)
• Pregnant or nursing dogs
• Dogs recovering from illness

Pricing and Value for Money

Cost is a major factor in choosing a fresh dog food brand. Let’s compare the average monthly pricing for a medium-sized dog (30 lbs, active).

Average Monthly Cost (30-lb Dog)

Sundays is significantly more affordable—typically 50% less than The Farmer’s Dog. But is the lower price indicative of lower quality?

Not necessarily. Sundays achieves lower costs through efficient batch cooking, simpler packaging, and standardized recipes. The Farmer’s Dog invests more in logistics, veterinary oversight, and customization—costs that are passed on to consumers.

Who Benefits from Each?

• Sundays is ideal for budget-conscious owners who want fresh food but don’t need advanced customization.
• The Farmer’s Dog is worth the price for owners of dogs with special needs, high-energy pets, or those seeking a truly tailored approach.

Convenience and Delivery Experience

Fresh dog food requires reliable delivery and proper storage. How do these two brands compare?

Sundays: Shelf-Stable and Easy to Store

Sundays meals are flash-frozen after cooking. This offers several benefits:

• Longer freezer storage: up to 6 months
• Less urgency upon delivery
• No need for same-day refrigeration

The food is shipped in compostable, insulated packaging with dry ice, and each pouch is labeled with thawing and feeding instructions.

To serve: thaw a day’s worth in the fridge or warm in a water bath.

For many owners—especially those with busy schedules—this freeze-and-use approach is highly convenient.

The Farmer’s Dog: Fresh but Time-Sensitive

TFD meals are fresh, not frozen. They’re delicate and require refrigeration within hours of delivery. The company ships via FedEx with cold packs, and delivery timing is critical.

• Meals last up to 3 weeks in the fridge
• Must rotate stock carefully to avoid spoilage
• Weekend or holiday delays can pose issues

While fresh food may offer superior taste and texture, it demands more diligence from the owner. If you travel often or have inconsistent routines, managing TFD meals can be a challenge.

Tip: TFD offers a “skip delivery” feature, but if meals arrive while you’re away, spoilage risks increase.

Digestibility and Palatability: Do Dogs Actually Like It?

Even the most nutritious food isn’t helpful if your dog refuses to eat it.

Sundays for Dogs: High Acceptance Rate

Based on customer reviews, most dogs enjoy Sundays’ flavor profiles, especially the Chicken & Turkey and Beef & Lamb varieties. The gentle cooking process preserves aroma and texture, making it appealing.

Digestive benefits reported include:

• Reduced stool volume
• Firmer, less odorous feces
• Fewer gas complaints (particularly with the lamb-based recipe)

Some picky eaters may need a transition period, but overall, Sundays maintains a strong reputation for palatability.

The Farmer’s Dog: Almost Universal Praise

TFD consistently receives rave reviews for taste. Because meals are fresh and made to order, the food often smells and looks more like human food, which dogs find irresistible.

Multiple owners report that dogs who refused kibble or even other fresh brands devoured The Farmer’s Dog meals. The high moisture content and cooking method significantly improve palatability.

Digestive improvements noted:

• Smaller, less frequent stools
• Faster digestion
• Improved coat shine and reduced shedding within weeks

One potential downside: the rich oils (especially in beef and salmon-based recipes) can cause loose stools in sensitive dogs at first. Gradual transition is recommended.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

As pet owners become more eco-conscious, sustainability is a key consideration.

Sundays: Leading in Green Practices

Sundays is a leader in sustainable pet food:

• Compostable pouches made from plant-based materials
• Batch cooking reduces energy and water usage
• Eco-friendly insulation in shipping boxes

The freeze-thaw model also reduces waste—meals last longer and spoil less often.

The Farmer’s Dog: Room for Improvement

While TFD uses recyclable trays and cold packs, their fresh delivery model requires:

• More frequent shipping
• Greater refrigeration demand
• More packaging per meal

They are working on sustainability improvements but currently fall behind Sundays in this area.

Verdict: If environmental impact is a priority, Sundays has a clear edge.

Customer Service and Support

Both brands offer customer support, but their approaches differ.

Sundays: Responsive and Transparent

Sundays offers:

• Email and chat support
• Detailed FAQ section
• Strong social media engagement
• Transparent refund and replacement policy

Users report timely responses and hassle-free issue resolution, such as replacing a delayed box.

The Farmer’s Dog: High-Touch but Inconsistent

TFD provides:

• Dedicated customer care team
• Vet nutritionist access during onboarding
• Pause, skip, or adjust plans anytime

However, some customers report slow response times during peak periods and issues with delivery substitutions without notice.

The personalized service is a strength, but execution can be inconsistent.

Real User Reviews and Testimonials

Public opinion across platforms (Trustpilot, Reddit, Yelp) suggests:

• Sundays users appreciate affordability, eco-packaging, and simplicity. Some mention wanting more customization or puppy formulations.
• The Farmer’s Dog users praise results—weight loss, improved energy, reduced allergies. The high cost and delivery logistics are the most common complaints.

One Reddit thread on r/Dogs noted: “Sundays is great for everyday nutrition without breaking the bank. TFD feels like a luxury service—perfect for dogs with health issues.”

Which One Should You Choose?

The answer depends on your dog’s needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.

Choose Sundays for Dogs If You:

• Want affordable fresh food
• Prefer frozen meals that last longer
• Value sustainability and eco-friendly packaging
• Have an adult dog with no special health needs
• Want simple, high-quality nutrition without complexity

Choose The Farmer’s Dog If You:

• Want fully customized meals
• Have a puppy, senior, or medically sensitive dog
• Are willing to pay a premium for personalization
• Don’t mind managing fresh, refrigerated meals
• Want the highest protein and fat content

Final Verdict: The Better Choice Depends on Your Priorities

So, which is better—Sundays for Dogs or The Farmer’s Dog?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s a balanced conclusion:

• The Farmer’s Dog wins for customization, protein content, and premium freshness. It’s ideal for dogs requiring targeted nutrition and owners who want personalized veterinary-backed plans.

• Sundays for Dogs wins for affordability, sustainability, and convenience. It’s an excellent entry point into fresh dog food without the steep cost or logistical challenges.

In terms of overall value: Sundays offers exceptional bang for the buck. You get nutritious, human-grade food at about half the price of TFD—with fewer environmental trade-offs.

For health-specific outcomes: The Farmer’s Dog often produces faster, more dramatic results, especially for dogs with allergies, digestive issues, or weight problems.

Tip: Try Both and Compare

Many brands offer introductory discounts. Consider trying a small box of each:

• See which one your dog prefers
• Compare digestion, energy, and coat quality
• Evaluate convenience in your daily routine

You may even find that combining both—using Sundays as a base and TFD for special needs days—is an effective middle ground.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Dog’s Future, One Meal at a Time

The choice between Sundays for Dogs and The Farmer’s Dog isn’t about which brand is universally better—it’s about which one aligns best with your dog’s health goals and your lifestyle.

Both companies represent a significant step forward in canine nutrition, replacing processed kibble with real, wholesome ingredients. While The Farmer’s Dog offers top-tier personalization and freshness, Sundays delivers remarkable value and sustainability.

In today’s market, fresh dog food isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for optimal health. Whether you choose Sundays for its simplicity and affordability or The Farmer’s Dog for its precision and customization, you’re making a powerful investment in your dog’s longevity, vitality, and happiness.

Take the time to assess your dog’s needs, experiment responsibly, and consult your vet if needed. Your dog deserves nutritious, lovingly prepared meals—and both of these brands can deliver just that, in their own way.

What are the main differences between Sundays for Dogs and The Farmer’s Dog?

Sundays for Dogs and The Farmer’s Dog are both premium dog food brands offering fresh, human-grade meals, but they differ significantly in their preparation and delivery models. Sundays for Dogs uses gently cooked, shelf-stable meals that are vacuum-sealed and delivered directly to customers. This approach allows for longer storage without refrigeration, making it convenient for those who want fresh food without frequent deliveries. The ingredients are sourced responsibly and cooked at low temperatures to preserve nutrients, while the recipes are designed to meet AAFCO standards.

In contrast, The Farmer’s Dog provides fresh, refrigerated, fully cooked meals that require immediate refrigeration upon delivery. These meals are shipped frozen but arrive thawed and are meant to be consumed within days. The brand emphasizes customization, offering personalized meal plans based on a dog’s weight, age, breed, and activity level. While both brands prioritize high-quality ingredients and transparency, The Farmer’s Dog typically offers a more tailored nutrition experience, albeit with more storage and preparation considerations for the owner.

How do ingredient quality and sourcing compare between the two brands?

Both Sundays for Dogs and The Farmer’s Dog use high-quality, human-grade ingredients and avoid artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. Sundays sources proteins like cage-free chicken and grass-fed beef, along with whole vegetables such as sweet potatoes and peas, and uses gentle cooking methods to retain nutritional integrity. The brand is transparent about its sourcing and emphasizes clean recipes with short ingredient lists.

The Farmer’s Dog also uses premium ingredients, including pasture-raised meats and organic produce, and discloses detailed sourcing information. Each recipe’s formulation is designed with veterinary nutritionists to ensure balanced, biologically appropriate meals. While both brands are conscientious about ingredient quality, The Farmer’s Dog makes a stronger effort to incorporate organic vegetables and emphasizes sourcing that supports animal welfare and sustainability, giving it a slight edge in transparency and ethics for some consumers.

Are the nutritional formulations of Sundays and The Farmer’s Dog complete and balanced?

Yes, both Sundays for Dogs and The Farmer’s Dog formulate their meals to be nutritionally complete and balanced according to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards. Sundays ensures each recipe meets the essential nutrient requirements for adult dogs, incorporating healthy fats, proteins, fiber, and carefully selected vitamins and minerals. The brand conducts feeding trials and uses independent lab testing to verify nutrient content.

The Farmer’s Dog goes a step further by having each recipe custom-developed with input from board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Their meals are formulated to provide optimal nutrition tailored to individual dog profiles, including life stage, weight, and health goals. Additionally, they offer real-time adjustments to feeding plans based on your dog’s progress. While both brands meet standard nutritional adequacy requirements, The Farmer’s Dog’s personalized approach may provide more targeted nutritional benefits.

How do pricing and subscription models differ between the two companies?

Sundays for Dogs tends to be more affordable, with pricing starting around $3 to $5 per meal depending on your dog’s size and chosen plan. The brand offers a straightforward subscription model with flexible delivery intervals, and customers can easily adjust or pause orders. Packaging is designed for convenience, with pre-portioned meals that require no thawing or refrigeration before serving.

The Farmer’s Dog typically has a higher price point, ranging from $5 to $8+ per day for an average-sized dog, due to the use of fresher ingredients and personalized meal planning. Subscriptions are based on calculated daily feeding needs, and while flexible, changes require a bit more planning due to the perishable nature of the food. Despite the higher cost, many customers find the personalized service and fresher preparation justifies the investment, especially for dogs with specific dietary needs.

Which brand offers better convenience and storage options?

Sundays for Dogs excels in convenience and storage, as their gently cooked meals are shelf-stable for several weeks before opening. This means you don’t need immediate refrigeration upon delivery, and unopened bags can be stored in a pantry. Once opened, the food should be refrigerated and used within a few days. The vacuum-sealed packaging also makes serving portions quick and mess-free, ideal for busy pet owners.

The Farmer’s Dog requires more attention to storage and timing. Meals arrive refrigerated and must be kept in the fridge or freezer upon delivery. Thawing is required if frozen, and most meals have a 5-7 day shelf life in the refrigerator. This freshness model ensures optimal nutrient retention but demands more planning. For households with reliable refrigeration and routines, The Farmer’s Dog works well but may not suit those seeking low-maintenance feeding solutions.

How does customer service and delivery reliability compare?

Sundays for Dogs receives generally positive feedback regarding its customer service and delivery reliability. The brand ships via standard carriers and provides email tracking updates. Customers appreciate responsive support for order changes or issues, and the shelf-stable format reduces pressure if a delivery is slightly delayed. The consistent packaging also minimizes spoilage risks during transit.

The Farmer’s Dog relies on refrigerated shipping and precise delivery windows, which can occasionally lead to delays or scheduling concerns, especially during peak times or extreme weather. However, they offer proactive notifications, shipment tracking, and easy access to customer support for rescheduling or reporting spoiled meals. Their team often replaces compromised orders promptly. While their logistics are more complex due to perishability, most customers report high satisfaction when deliveries go smoothly.

Can either brand accommodate dogs with food sensitivities or allergies?

Sundays for Dogs offers a limited number of recipes, but they are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system with single animal proteins and no common allergens like corn, soy, or wheat. The brand provides clear labeling, making it easier for owners to avoid known irritants. While they don’t offer fully customized plans, their transparent ingredient lists help in identifying suitable options for sensitive dogs.

The Farmer’s Dog provides more robust support for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. They offer personalized plans and allow vet-recommended modifications upon request. Their menu includes limited-ingredient recipes and the option to exclude certain proteins or carbs based on your dog’s needs. Staff often consult with pet parents and can work with veterinarians to tailor meals, making it a better choice for dogs requiring specialized diets.