Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy: My Truth Revealed
Open Farm Dog Food Review
I have been feeding Open Farm dog food for a long time now because I wanted something clean, honest, and easy to trust for daily meals. Cheap kibble was never an option, and fully raw diets didn’t feel right for my routine. This middle ground gives both quality and convenience without compromise. Open Farm felt like the middle ground that made sense.
Is Open Farm Dog Food Good?
Short answer: yes.
It is one of the most trustworthy dog foods I have personally used.
I switched to Open Farm when I wanted less processing and clearer labels. From the very first bag, I noticed two things.
First, the food smelled fresh. It did not smell oily or fake.
Second, my dog ate it right away. I did not need to add toppers.
One moment really stood out for me. I had a busy work week. I had no time to prep extras or mix food. My dog still ate every meal without issue.
Stools stayed firm the entire time. That is always my first sign that a food is working.
Another test was travel. Changing places often upsets digestion. With Open Farm, there were no problems at all. That usually does not happen with lower-quality foods.
From a technical view, Open Farm uses high protein and moderate fat. The ingredient list is clear. Nothing feels hidden. That matters to me as a dog owner in the U.S., where labels can be confusing.
Main Focus: Ethical and Clear Nutrition
Open Farm has one main goal. Ethical sourcing with full transparency.
In my experience, this is not just marketing talk. I checked the lot numbers online. I could see where the ingredients came from. That level of detail built real trust for me.
Sourcing (My Real Experience)
Open Farm uses meat from high-welfare farms and fisheries. This includes beef, turkey, chicken, lamb, and salmon.
They avoid factory farming. They focus on traceable supply chains.
From daily use, the quality showed in digestion and energy. My dog stayed active but calm. No wild bursts. No crashes.
That balance matters. Many U.S. dogs spend more time indoors. Steady energy is better than sugar highs.
Ingredients (What I Noticed Over Time)
The ingredient list is clean and easy to read.
It includes:
- Ethically sourced proteins like beef, lamb, chicken, and fish
- Non-GMO fruits and vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, and blueberries
- Ancient grains in some recipes, such as quinoa and oats
- Superfoods like coconut oil
- Added vitamins and minerals for full nutrition
My biggest takeaway was simple. Fewer fillers meant fewer stomach problems.
After about four weeks, I also noticed a shinier coat. That is usually a good long-term sign.
Product Variety (Real-World Use)
Open Farm offers many options. This made testing easier for me.
They offer:
- Dry kibble with ancient grains
- Grain-free kibble
- RawMix kibble with real meat pieces
- Freeze-dried raw patties and morsels
- Wet food like stews and pâtés
- Air-dried and gently cooked meals
- Treats like jerky, biscuits, and dehydrated snacks
This variety helped me rotate proteins. I used salmon, turkey, lamb, and beef. Digestion stayed stable the whole time.
Protein and Fat Balance (Daily Use)
Most Open Farm recipes contain about 29 to 33 percent protein. Fat usually falls between 8.5 and 15 percent.
In daily life, this led to:
- Good muscle tone
- Steady energy
- No weight gain problems
For my dog, this balance worked well for walks and normal activity.
Product Lines (Simple Breakdown)
Open Farm organizes its food clearly.
- Kibble: Ancient Grains, Grain-Free, RawMix
- Wet Food: Stews, pâtés, gently cooked
- Freeze-Dried Raw
- Air-Dried food
- Goodbowl and Tailored Needs options
- Treats: jerky, dehydrated, biscuits
This made shopping easier. That matters in U.S. pet stores where shelf space is limited.
Ingredient Philosophy (My Take)
Open Farm follows radical transparency. Ingredients are ethically sourced and close to human-grade quality.
From daily feeding, I felt confident. I did not second-guess labels. That peace of mind matters more than fancy claims.
Recalls (What I Learned)
Open Farm has had recalls in the past. These affected some freeze-dried raw and RawMix products.
The reason was possible contamination from small, non-toxic plastic film pieces used in ingredient liners.
From my view, the response mattered most. The company acted fast. Communication was clear. That shows responsibility.
No brand is perfect. How they handle issues is what counts.
What I Like
Transparency
I could trace ingredients. That made long-term feeding easier to trust.
Ingredient quality
Digestion improved. Stools stayed consistent.
Wide product range
I could rotate proteins and formats without restarting transitions.
What Could Be Better
- Price
It costs more than basic kibble. This may not fit every budget.- RawMix temptation
My dog sometimes picked out the raw pieces first.- Availability
Some recipes sell out fast in U.S. stores.
Open Farm Quick Overview
Recommendation
I recommend Open Farm for dog owners who care about where food comes from. It offers a solid balance of quality and ease. For daily meals, this approach fits well without extra effort. If you’re not ready to fully commit to raw diets, this still feels like a strong and practical choice.
If your dog has severe sensitivities or if you only want fresh meals, more research may help.
But based on my real-world use, Open Farm fits many U.S. homes looking for clean, ethical, and reliable dog food without making things complicated.
Stella and Chewy Dog Food Review
I have been testing Stella and Chewy dog food for a long time. My goal was simple. I wanted to see how a raw-focused diet works in real life, not just on paper.
Raw food sounds great in theory. But daily feeding is what really matters.
Is Stella and Chewy Dog Food Good?
Yes. It is one of the strongest raw-based dog foods I have personally used. It works especially well for picky or sensitive dogs.
I started using Stella and Chewy’s when my dog began skipping meals. Interest in regular kibble was fading fast.
The first thing I noticed was excitement at mealtime. Real excitement. That almost never happens with dry food alone.
One clear moment stood out during a food switch. Normally, I need a slow 10 to 14 day transition. With Stella and Chewy, my dog adjusted in just a few days.
Another test came during boarding. Stress usually kills appetite. This time, meals were still eaten. That told me a lot.
At its core, this brand believes raw food is best. From daily use, I understand why many owners agree.
Main Focus: Raw and Natural Nutrition
Stella and Chewy is built on one idea. Raw food is closest to what dogs are meant to eat.
From my experience, this shows up in energy, digestion, and interest in food.
Meals feel rich and filling. My dog needed smaller portions and still seemed satisfied.
Sourcing (My Experience)
The brand uses ingredients from trusted regions.
These include:
- Grass-fed meats from the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand
- Cage-free poultry
- Wild-caught fish
- Organic fruits and vegetables from the Americas
What stood out most was consistency. Each bag smelled the same. Each bag worked the same.
That matters when feeding raw-style food in the U.S., where quality can vary a lot.
Ingredients (What I Observed)
The ingredient lists are simple and protein-heavy.
They include:
- Grass-fed beef, cage-free chicken, or wild-caught fish as the first ingredient
- Nutrient-rich organs and ground bone
- Organic fruits and vegetables
- Added probiotics and antioxidants
From real use, digestion improved fast. Stools became smaller and firmer.
Within about a month, the coat texture also improved. That usually means the food is being used well by the body.
Product Variety (Daily Use)
Stella and Chewy’s offers many feeding formats.
These include:
- Freeze-dried raw patties and meal mixers
- Frozen raw diets
- Raw-coated and raw-blend kibble
- Wet food like stews, pâtés, and broths
- Treats for training and dental care
This variety helped me mix feeding styles. I could adjust meals without upsetting my dog’s stomach.
Protein and Fat Levels (Real Results)
Raw Blend Kibble usually sits around:
-
Protein: about 30 to 36 percent
-
Fat: about 14 to 18 percent
In daily life, this meant strong energy and good muscle tone.
I did need to watch portions. This food is calorie-dense, and small amounts go a long way.
Product Lines (Simple Breakdown)
Stella and Chewy keep things focused.
- Freeze-Dried Raw: Dinner Patties and Meal Mixers
- Raw-Coated and Raw Blend Kibble
- Wet Foods: stews, pâtés, and broths
- Treats: dental and training options
Everything stays centered on raw or raw-inspired feeding.
Ingredient Philosophy (My Take)
The philosophy is clear. Feed dogs the way nature intended.
There is minimal processing. Raw ingredients are used heavily.
From feeding it myself, this approach feels honest and well done.
Recalls (What to Know)
Stella and Chewy’s have had recalls in the past. These were related to Listeria monocytogenes.
For me, the response mattered most. Notices were clear. Steps were taken to fix the issue.
That matters when dealing with raw products. No brand is perfect. How they act is what counts.
What I Like
Strong taste appeal
My dog ate it even during stressful times.
Raw nutrition benefits
Digestion improved. Portions became smaller.
Flexible feeding
It worked as a full meal or as a topper.
What Could Be Better
Price
It is expensive, especially for large dogs.
Storage needs
Freeze-dried is easy. Frozen raw needs freezer space.
Not for everyone
Some dogs and owners may not want raw diets.
Stella and Chewy Quick Overview
Recommendation
I recommend Stella and Chewy for dog owners who want raw-style nutrition without doing everything from scratch.
It works well for picky eaters, active dogs, and dogs with digestion issues.
If you are on a tight budget, uncomfortable with raw feeding, or need the cheapest daily option, more research may help.
But based on my real experience, this brand delivers real results when raw nutrition is the goal.
Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy: Detailed Comparison
I’ve been testing out both brands in real life, not just reading labels. I used them during normal weeks, busy days, and even travel. This comparison reflects how they actually perform in a real dog household.
Brand Overview: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
Open Farm focuses on ethical sourcing, while Stella & Chewy’s centers on raw nutrition. With Open Farm, transparency comes first, and that difference shows right away. I noticed the brand puts more effort into traceable ingredients and everyday balance than extreme formulas.
Open Farm Overview
Open Farm is built around clean labels, ethical farms, and clear sourcing. From my experience, it feels designed for long-term daily feeding, not just short-term results. The food stays consistent, easy to use, and gentle on digestion, which matters when feeding dogs every day. ethical sourcing and transparency. It feels built for everyday feeding with peace of mind.
| Aspect | Open Farm |
|---|---|
| Core Philosophy | Ethical, traceable nutrition |
| Best Known For | Transparency and sourcing |
| Feeding Style | Kibble-first with raw options |
- Rating: 9/10
Stella & Chewy’s Overview
Stella & Chewy’s is built around the belief that raw food is best. It feels more intense and nutrition-dense.
| Aspect | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|
| Core Philosophy | Raw, ancestral nutrition |
| Best Known For | Freeze-dried raw foods |
| Feeding Style | Raw and raw-inspired |
- Rating: 8.5/10
Ingredient Analysis: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
Both brands use quality ingredients, but their formulas differ in structure.
Protein Sources, Carbs & Produce
Both brands use real meat. The difference is how much plant matter is included.
| Category | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Sources | Beef, turkey, lamb, fish | Grass-fed beef, cage-free poultry |
| Carbs & Grains | Grain-free & ancient grains | Very low carb |
| Fruits & Veggies | Pumpkin, carrots, blueberries | Organic fruits & veggies |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8.5/10
Nutritional Analysis: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
Protein and fat levels reflect each brand’s feeding style.
| Nutrient | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | ~29–33% | ~30–36% |
| Fat | ~8.5–15% | ~14–18% |
| Fiber & Extras | Balanced, digestion-friendly | Dense, raw-based nutrients |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 8.5/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 9/10
Vet & AAFCO Approved: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
Both brands meet AAFCO standards for complete nutrition.
| Aspect | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| AAFCO Compliance | Yes | Yes |
| Vet Acceptance | High | Moderate to High |
| Life Stages | All life stages | All life stages |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8/10
Dietary Options & Formulations
Open Farm offers flexibility; Stella & Chewy’s leans raw.
| Feature | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Raw / Freeze-Dried | Yes | Yes (core focus) |
| Kibble Options | Many | Limited |
| Grain-Free Choices | Yes | Mostly grain-free |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8.5/10
Availability & Selection: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
Both are widely available in the U.S., but Open Farm is easier to find in-store.
| Factor | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Stores | Very common | Common |
| Online | Easy access | Easy access |
| Recipe Variety | Very wide | Focused |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8/10
Ethical Sourcing & Sustainability
Open Farm leads in transparency and traceability.
| Aspect | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Ethical Sourcing | Strong focus | Strong focus |
| Transparency | Ingredient traceability | Less detailed |
| Sustainability | Core mission | Secondary focus |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9.5/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8.5/10
Pros & Cons of Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Open Farm | Ethical, balanced, flexible | Higher cost than basic kibble |
| Stella & Chewy’s | Highly palatable, raw nutrition | Expensive, storage needs |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8.5/10
Performance: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
From daily feeding, both performed well. Stella & Chewy’s gave faster results. Open Farm stayed consistent.
| Aspect | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Digestion | Very stable | Very strong |
| Energy Levels | Balanced | High |
| Coat & Skin | Improved | Improved quickly |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 8.5/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 9/10
Ease of Use: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
| Factor | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Feeding | Very easy | Moderate |
| Storage | Simple | Needs care |
| Travel Friendly | Yes | Freeze-dried only |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8/10
Value for Money: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
| Aspect | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Per Meal | Moderate | High |
| Portion Efficiency | Good | Very high |
| Long-Term Value | Strong | Situational |
Ratings:
- Open Farm: 8.5/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8/10
Overall: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
Open Farm fits daily feeding. Stella & Chewy’s shines for raw lovers.
| Category | Open Farm | Stella & Chewy’s |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Everyday feeding | Raw-focused diets |
| Learning Curve | Low | Medium |
| Overall Balance | Excellent | Powerful but intense |
Final Ratings:
- Open Farm: 9/10
- Stella & Chewy’s: 8.5/10
Safety & Recall History of Open Farm & Stella and Chewy
Both brands have had recalls. Open Farm recalls involved non-toxic packaging material. Stella & Chewy’s recalls involved listeria risks, which is common in raw food.
Where to Buy Open Farm & Stella and Chewy
Both brands are easy to find in the U.S. You’ll see them at major pet stores and trusted online retailers.
Conclusion: Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
If you want ethical, transparent, and easy daily feeding, Open Farm feels like the safer long-term choice.
If you want raw nutrition and high food drive, Stella & Chewy’s delivers strong results.
I see Open Farm as a steady daily partner. I see Stella & Chewy’s as a powerful tool. The best choice depends on how raw you want to go and how much effort you want to put in.
FAQs for Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy
What are the main differences between Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy?
Open Farm focuses on ethical sourcing and balanced meals. Stella & Chewy’s focuses on raw nutrition. One is flexible. The other is raw-first.
Which is better for picky dogs, Open Farm or Stella and Chewy?
Stella and Chewy often work better for picky dogs. The raw taste is strong. Open Farm still works well but feels more mild and balanced.
Is Open Farm vs Stella and Chewy better for everyday feeding?
Open Farm is easier for daily feeding. It stores well and needs less prep. Stella and Chewy can take more effort, especially with raw or frozen options.
Are Open Farm & Stella and Chewy AAFCO approved?
Yes. Both brands meet AAFCO standards for complete nutrition. They support all life stages when fed as directed and used correctly.
Which brand is safer, Open Farm or Stella and Chewy?
Both brands have had recalls. Open Farm issues were packaging-related. Stella and Chewy recalls involved raw food risks like Listeria. Handling matters.





