Does Costco Sell Freshpet? Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a pet owner who values high-quality, fresh nutrition for your furry friend, you’ve likely heard about Freshpet—a brand revolutionizing the way pet food is made and sold. With an emphasis on real ingredients and refrigeration, Freshpet stands out from traditional kibble brands. But where can you actually buy it? One of the most common questions among pet parents is: Does Costco sell Freshpet? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the current availability of Freshpet at Costco, how to find it, alternative purchasing options, and why this brand is becoming a favorite for pets and their owners alike.

Understanding Freshpet: A New Approach to Pet Nutrition

Before we dive into where to buy Freshpet, it’s important to understand what makes this brand so unique. Traditional pet foods are often made months in advance, shipped across countries, and stored on shelves. By contrast, Freshpet takes a fresh-from-the-kitchen approach by producing pet food that requires refrigeration to maintain its nutritional integrity.

How Is Freshpet Different from Other Pet Foods?

Freshpet’s manufacturing process emphasizes minimal processing and the use of real meat, vegetables, and healthy grains. Their food is typically made daily and never cooked at high temperatures, which helps retain natural nutrients, enzymes, and flavor.

Key differences include:

• No artificial preservatives: Since the food is kept refrigerated, there’s no need for chemical preservatives.
• Real ingredients: The ingredient lists are short and recognizable—chicken, carrots, peas, and even eggs are common components.
• Refrigerated distribution: This ensures peak freshness until you bring it home.
• Minimal processing: Unlike kibble, which is extruded and cooked at high heat, Freshpet meals are gently cooked and then cooled for shipping.

This model aims to deliver a healthier, tastier alternative for dogs and cats—closer to a home-cooked meal than anything you’d find on a shelf.

Freshpet Product Lines

Freshpet offers a diverse range of products tailored to different dietary needs and life stages. These include:

1. Freshpet Select – A line of fresh, gently cooked meals for both dogs and cats.
2. Freshpet Vital – Higher-protein, grain-free options for pets with specific dietary goals.
3. Freshpet Nature’s Fresh – Focused on clean, natural ingredients with simple formulas.
4. Freshpet Dog Joy – Features fun, treat-style fresh rolls and flavor combinations.
5. Freshpet Cat Cravings – Designed for feline palates with moist, soft textures and real meat.

Their versatility and commitment to quality make Freshpet a top choice for pet owners looking to upgrade their pet’s diet. But where can you get it at scale, and at a good price?

Does Costco Sell Freshpet? The Definitive Answer

Now let’s address the main question: Does Costco sell Freshpet? As of 2024, the answer is: Yes, but availability varies significantly by location.

Costco has begun carrying Freshpet in select warehouse locations across the U.S., particularly in regions with strong demand for premium pet products. However, this is not a nationwide rollout, so whether you’ll find Freshpet at your local Costco depends on your geographic area and the store’s individual inventory decisions.

How to Check Freshpet Availability at Your Local Costco

If you’re shopping at Costco and hoping to pick up Freshpet, there are several reliable ways to check:

1. Visit the Costco Website or App

The Costco website and mobile app now allow members to search products and see what’s in stock at nearby warehouse locations. Simply enter “Freshpet” in the search bar, select your nearest Costco, and view the product details.

2. Call Your Local Costco

Sometimes the online inventory isn’t updated in real time. The most straightforward way to confirm availability is to call the customer service desk at your local Costco warehouse. They can let you know if Freshpet is currently in stock and which variants they carry.

3. Visit the Refrigerated Pet Food Section

Costco stores that carry Freshpet typically stock it in the refrigerated pet food aisle, often near dairy or deli sections. If such a section exists, look for Freshpet’s distinctive packaging: white trays with bold red, green, or black branding. The product will be labeled clearly as “Keep Refrigerated.”

Typical Freshpet Products Sold at Costco

When available, Costco tends to carry popular Freshpet items that appeal to a broad audience, such as:

Some locations may also carry cat-specific lines like Freshpet Cat Cravings with real chicken or salmon. However, cat products are less commonly stocked, reflecting broader market trends where dog food often dominates shelf space.

Why Doesn’t Every Costco Carry Freshpet?

The inconsistency in availability is due to several logistical and operational factors:

• Cold Chain Requirement: Freshpet must be shipped and stored at refrigerated temperatures. This “cold chain” distribution adds complexity for retailers, especially large-scale operations like Costco that need coordination across thousands of SKUs.
• Demand-Driven Strategy: Costco only stocks products that align with member demand. In areas where pet parents prioritize fresh or premium food, Freshpet is more likely to be available.
• Competing Brands: Costco carries other private-label and national brand pet foods (e.g., Kirkland Signature) that already fill the “value” and “premium” categories. Adding a fresh refrigerated option like Freshpet requires additional space and investment.
• Warehouse Space Limitations: Refrigerated display space is finite, and each freezer tray must compete with high-volume items like frozen turkeys, ice cream, and pre-made meals.

Therefore, even if your Costco carries pet food, it may not have the infrastructure or market data to justify Freshpet stock.

Alternatives to Buying Freshpet at Costco

If you can’t find Freshpet at your local Costco, don’t worry—there are multiple other ways to get your hands on this fresh pet food.

Where Else to Buy Freshpet

The company has invested heavily in making its products widely accessible. Major retailers carrying Freshpet include:

• Walmart – Available in-store and online, Walmart has one of the broadest selections of Freshpet products, often at competitive prices.
• Petco – Their fresh refrigerated pet food section usually includes several Freshpet varieties, and they frequently run discounts for rewards members.
• Chewy.com – Offers fast shipping and auto-ship discounts, with some Freshpet lines available through Chewy’s subscription model.
• Target – In-store availability in select locations, particularly in urban areas with high pet ownership rates.
• Local grocery and pet stores – In cities like Atlanta, San Diego, or Seattle, even neighborhood supermarkets carry Freshpet.

Shopping Online: The Future of Fresh Pet Food

E-commerce is revolutionizing how pet owners source their pet’s meals, and Freshpet is no exception. Shopping online offers:

1. Greater selection – You can access niche items like grain-free or limited-ingredient diets not available locally.
2. Subscriptions and savings – Autoship options on sites like Chewy and Amazon often include 5–15% discounts.
3. Delivery to your doorstep – Saves time, especially if your local stores require multiple trips to restock.

Some consumers report receiving Freshpet orders in refrigerated packaging with cold packs, ensuring quality and safety upon arrival.

Cost Comparison: Costco vs. Other Retailers

Even when Costco stocks Freshpet, the price may not always be the lowest. Here’s a general comparison based on national averages:

Interestingly, online retailers can often undercut even warehouse pricing, especially when factoring in member discounts and rebates. This dynamic shifts the incentive to buy elsewhere—particularly because online platforms are more reliably stocked.

Why Pet Owners Choose Freshpet

With so many pet foods on the market, why do so many pet owners go out of their way to buy Freshpet?

Better Digestive Health and Energy Levels

Multiple anecdotal and observational reports suggest that pets fed Freshpet experience:

• Firmer, smaller stools
• Increased energy and mobility, especially in older dogs
• Improved coat shine and skin health
• Reduced itching and allergies (particularly in dogs sensitive to grains or preservatives)

While peer-reviewed clinical studies specific to Freshpet are limited, the improvement in digestion is often attributed to the absence of artificial fillers and the inclusion of whole, functional ingredients.

Picky Eaters Love the Taste

One of the most compelling benefits is palatability. Pets accustomed to dry kibble may initially resist switching, but many eventually flock to the taste of fresh meat in Freshpet meals. Cats, in particular, are drawn to the moist texture and rich aroma of the refrigerated food—a far cry from the dry pellets commonly left in bowls.

Support for Weight Management

Because Freshpet meals are generally lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein compared to traditional kibble, they’re often recommended by veterinarians for pets needing to lose or maintain weight. The satiety factor is stronger, meaning your pet feels full on smaller portions—making it ideal for portion control and healthy feeding habits.

Made in the USA with High Ethical Standards

Freshpet manufactures its food at a state-of-the-art facility in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Unlike many pet food brands that outsource globally, the company maintains tight control over sourcing, quality assurance, and production processes. According to their sustainability reports, Freshpet uses:

• Meat from USDA-inspected facilities
• Locally sourced produce when possible
• Renewable energy in production (they power part of the plant with solar)

Their dedication to transparency and environmental responsibility resonates with modern pet owners.

What to Consider Before Switching to Freshpet

While Freshpet is a compelling choice, it’s important to consider the full picture before making the switch.

Transitioning Your Pet’s Diet

Switching to any new food should be gradual to avoid digestive upset. The recommended method is:

1. Days 1–2: Mix 25% Freshpet with 75% current food.
2. Days 3–5: Increase to 50% Freshpet.
3. Days 6–8: Use 75% Freshpet.
4. Day 9 onward: Transition complete—100% Freshpet.

Monitoring your pet’s stool, energy, and appetite throughout the process ensures a smooth transition.

Storage and Shelf Life

Unlike shelf-stable kibble, fresh pet food requires diligent storage. Once opened, Freshpet should be consumed within 7 days. It must always be kept refrigerated, and frozen storage is not recommended as it may affect texture and nutrient balance.

Additionally, when shopping at retailers like Costco, be mindful of how long the product has been out of refrigeration—especially during transport. Keeping a cooler in your car during pickup can help maintain the cold chain.

Cost Over Time

Freshpet is generally more expensive per pound than standard dry food. Depending on size and appetite, feeding a large dog exclusively Freshpet can cost $150–$300 per month. However, many pet owners report using it as a topper or supplement to kibble, which maintains the benefits at a lower price point.

Final Verdict: Can You Buy Freshpet at Costco?

To repeat: Yes, Costco does sell Freshpet, but only in select warehouse locations and with limited product availability. Your best bet is to check your local store either online, by phone, or in person. If available, Costco can be a cost-effective source—especially if you’re already a member planning a bulk shopping trip.

But don’t limit yourself. With Freshpet available at major retailers and online platforms, you have multiple reliable ways to access this high-quality pet food, even without a Costco membership. The growing availability reflects a broader trend in pet nutrition—toward freshness, transparency, and wellness.

What This Means for Pet Parents

The appearance of Freshpet at Costco signals a shift in major retailers’ priorities. As consumers demand fresher, more natural foods for their pets, stores are adapting. This is good news for dogs and cats across the country, who stand to benefit from better diets and improved health outcomes.

Whether you’re a long-time Freshpet user or just exploring healthier options for your pet, knowing where and how to buy these products empowers you to make informed decisions. And while Costco might not be the most consistent source, its occasional stocking of Freshpet adds another layer of accessibility in the evolving landscape of pet nutrition.

In the end, the question isn’t just whether Costco sells Freshpet—it’s how committed we are to giving our pets the best possible quality of life, starting with what they eat. And brands like Freshpet, supported by retailers from Walmart to Costco, are helping make that commitment easier than ever.

Does Costco sell Freshpet dog food in its stores?

Yes, many Costco locations do carry Freshpet dog food, though availability can vary by region and individual store. Freshpet is known for its refrigerated, all-natural pet food products made with fresh ingredients like real meat, vegetables, and grains—offering a healthier alternative to traditional kibble. As Costco continues to expand its selection of premium pet nutrition brands, Freshpet has become a popular addition to the refrigerated pet food section in several warehouses across the U.S.

However, not every Costco store stocks Freshpet products due to differences in store size, customer demand, and regional supplier logistics. Customers are encouraged to check with their local warehouse or use the Costco website’s store inventory feature to verify availability before visiting. In some cases, even if Freshpet isn’t on the regular shelves, warehouse staff may be able to order it or provide information about when it might be restocked.

What types of Freshpet products does Costco offer?

Costco typically offers select varieties of Freshpet dog food, focusing on their best-selling and most popular lines. These often include Freshpet Select – Home Cooked Meals, which features recipes like chicken, beef, and duck made with fresh, recognizable ingredients. These refrigerated rolls and trays are designed to support sensitive stomachs and provide improved digestibility due to the use of natural preservatives and low-temperature processing.

Occasionally, Costco may carry Freshpet Vital and Nature’s Fresh lines, which emphasize grain-free formulations and higher protein content for more active dogs. Availability of specific products depends on the store’s product rotation and regional preferences. Customers interested in a particular Freshpet formula should check both in-store and the Costco website to see current offerings, and may also consider purchasing online through third-party retailers if a preferred variant is unavailable.

Is Freshpet available at Costco in all states?

No, Freshpet is not available at every Costco location across all states, primarily due to the product’s refrigerated requirement and supply chain constraints. Freshpet must be stored and transported in temperature-controlled environments, which limits distribution to stores with adequate refrigerated storage space. As a result, Costco locations in areas with high demand and infrastructure to support fresh pet food are more likely to carry it.

Customers in states like California, Texas, Florida, and various parts of the Northeast report higher availability of Freshpet at their local Costcos. If Freshpet isn’t stocked at a specific warehouse, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will never be available—product lines at Costco are subject to change based on seasonal trends, consumer feedback, and vendor agreements. It’s best to consult the Costco website or call the store directly to get real-time information.

How does Freshpet at Costco compare in price to other retailers?

Freshpet products at Costco are often competitively priced and may offer better value compared to small pet specialty stores or large grocery chains. Due to Costco’s bulk purchasing power and focus on membership savings, customers can frequently find favorable pricing on Freshpet rolls or trays, especially when larger sizes are available. Additionally, Costco occasionally features limited-time promotions or discounts on pet foods, which can further reduce the cost per pound.

However, Freshpet prices at Costco may not always be lower than online retailers like Chewy or Amazon, especially during sales events on those platforms. While Costco’s pricing is generally solid, the main advantage lies in the ability to see and purchase the product in person while shopping for other essentials. Customers should compare per-ounce prices and check for promotions both in-store and online to determine the best deal.

Why is Freshpet refrigerated, and how should I store it after buying from Costco?

Freshpet is refrigerated because it contains no chemical preservatives, artificial flavors, or fillers—relying instead on fresh, natural ingredients that require cool temperatures to maintain freshness and safety. The production process uses gentle pasteurization and sealed packaging to preserve nutrients and ensure the food stays good, but it must remain refrigerated from the time it leaves the factory until it’s served. This ensures the product remains safe and palatable for pets.

After purchasing Freshpet from Costco, it is essential to place it directly in your refrigerator upon returning home. The food should be stored at or below 40°F and used within a few days of opening the package—always refer to the “use by” date printed on the packaging. If you buy a large roll, consider slicing portions and storing them in an airtight container to minimize air exposure and preserve freshness throughout the week.

Can I buy Freshpet for my cat at Costco?

Currently, Freshpet’s cat food options are more limited compared to its dog food offerings, and most Costco locations do not carry Freshpet products specifically formulated for cats. While Freshpet does produce a line called Nature’s Fresh for cats, featuring refrigerated patties made with real chicken or salmon, these are typically found in pet specialty stores or online rather than in warehouse clubs like Costco.

If you’re looking for fresh, high-quality options for your feline at Costco, your best bet might be other premium refrigerated or raw pet food brands that cater to cats. Customers interested in Freshpet for cats should check the Costco website or speak with store staff to see if any cat-specific fresh foods are available locally. Alternatively, Freshpet cat products can be ordered directly from the manufacturer’s website or through authorized online retailers.

Are there any alternatives to Freshpet available at Costco?

Yes, Costco carries several high-quality alternatives to Freshpet in its refrigerated and dry pet food sections. Brands like Nature’s Domain, Kirkland Signature (Costco’s private label), and select varieties from Blue Buffalo and Wellness offer natural ingredients and premium formulations that can serve as excellent substitutes. Some of these options are grain-free or crafted for specific dietary needs, such as weight management, sensitive stomachs, or senior dogs.

For customers seeking fresh or minimally processed pet food, Costco also occasionally stocks raw or frozen diets like Instinct Raw or Stella & Chewy’s, which appeal to pet owners interested in biologically appropriate nutrition. While these products differ in form and storage requirements from Freshpet, they align with similar values of quality, transparency, and real-food ingredients. Exploring the full pet food aisle at Costco can help pet parents find a suitable and cost-effective alternative.