What is The Honest Kitchen?

Founded in 2002 by Lucy Postins in San Diego, California, The Honest Kitchen is a pioneer in human-grade pet food made with real, whole-food ingredients. The brand offers a wide selection of dog food—including dehydrated, dry, and wet options—alongside treats, toppers, and supplements, all crafted to provide balanced nutrition with the same quality you’d expect in your own kitchen. Available for one-time purchase or customizable subscription, their products can be ordered directly from thehonestkitchen.com or through retailers like Chewy and Amazon, as well as select stores nationwide.

What are the Unique Selling Points of The Honest Kitchen’s Products?

The Honest Kitchen’s products stand out for several reasons:

• Pioneers in Human-Grade Pet Food – The Honest Kitchen was the first pet food brand to receive FDA approval for human-grade standards, meaning their recipes are crafted in facilities that meet the same safety regulations as human food production.
  
• Certified B Corporation – As one of the few B Corps in the pet food industry, The Honest Kitchen demonstrates a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility, transparency, and ethical business practices.
  
• Made in the USA – All products are prepared and packaged in the USA, using carefully sourced ingredients from trusted domestic and global suppliers.
  
• Non-GMO Ingredients – The Honest Kitchen formulates its recipes without genetically modified ingredients, supporting cleaner, more transparent nutrition for pets.
  
• Animal Welfare Certifications – The company upholds high ethical standards for animal welfare, with ingredients that meet Global Animal Partnership (GAP) standards and American Humane Certified guidelines.
  
• Premium, Whole Food Ingredients – Recipes are made with real, whole food ingredients sourced from the human food supply chain, ensuring quality, taste, and digestibility.
  

How does The Honest Kitchen Compare to Similar Brands?

Compared to other leading pet food brands, The Honest Kitchen distinguishes itself with its impressive variety of formats, offering dry food, wet food, dehydrated meals, toppers, and supplements—all made with the same uncompromising commitment to quality. Unlike many competitors, their recipes contain no fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products, delivering clean, whole-food nutrition in every bite., The Honest Kitchen remains surprisingly affordable while maintaining high standards like human-grade ingredients and ethical sourcing, especially in certain food categories such as their dehydrated food. 

Here’s how some of The Honest Kitchen’s top products compare to similar brands: 

How much does The Honest Kitchen Cost Compared to Other Brands?

The Honest Kitchen offers a wide range of products, and while its pricing may be slightly higher than traditional “premium” pet food brands, the difference lies in the quality. As a human-grade pet food company, The Honest Kitchen uses higher-quality ingredients sourced from the human food supply chain and manufactures all its products in the USA—factors that naturally increase production costs. However, the brand’s dehydrated dog food provides a more affordable alternative to fresh food without compromising quality. In fact, it’s priced 58% lower than leading fresh food brands, with daily feeding costs starting at just $2.62 for a 30-pound active dog. This makes The Honest Kitchen a smart, value-driven option for pet parents seeking premium nutrition at a more accessible price point.

The cluster food options start at $7.99, while the wet food packages at $25.99.

What Products Does The Honest Kitchen Offer?

The Honest Kitchen offers an impressive range of human-grade pet products that cater to nearly every dietary need and preference. 

• Their flagship Dehydrated Dog Food line—which launched the brand over 20 years ago—continues to stand out as a convenient, shelf-stable, and sustainable alternative to fresh food. Made with whole food ingredients and gently dehydrated, these recipes provide premium nutrition without the need for refrigeration. 
• For pet parents seeking a dry food option, the Whole Food Clusters are a breakthrough innovation: the first human-grade dry dog food on the market. Unlike traditional kibble, these clusters are minimally processed, free from fat sprays or artificial coatings, and crafted to preserve the flavor and integrity of their real ingredients. 
• The brand also offers a fast-growing variety of toppers like the Skin & Coat and Hip & Joint Pour Overs, which were developed with a veterinary nutritionist to deliver targeted functional benefits. 
• Rounding out their lineup are wet foods, treats, hydration boosters, and supplements—all made in the USA with uncompromising quality. Whether you’re looking for a complete meal or a way to enhance your dog’s dinner bowl, The Honest Kitchen provides nutritious, flavorful options rooted in transparency and whole food goodness.

• Complete & balanced nutrition for adult dogs and puppies of all breeds and sizes, as well as adult mothers (gestation/lactation).
• 100% human grade with visible whole food ingredients
• Clusters are made by mixing small batches of fresh ingredients.
• Use Code 40VET for 40% off your first purchase.

Get 40% off on The Honest Kitchen

What Are The Honest Kitchen’s Best Selling Products?

The Honest Kitchen’s best selling products are listed below:

• Whole Grain Chicken Dehydrated Food for Dogs
• Whole Grain Chicken Whole Food Clusters for Dogs
• Limited Ingredient Fish Dehydrated Dog Food
• Pumpkin Pour Overs
• Instant Goat’s Milk
• Ocean Chews: Cod Fish Skins
• Jerky Harvest Mini Bars

With a selection of over 70 products just for dogs, you can explore everything The Honest Kitchen has to offer by visiting their website here.

Are The Honest Kitchen Products FDA Approved?

No, the Honest Kitchen is not technically FDA approved as the FDA regulates the pet food industry but does not formally approve pet food. Oversight of pet food labeling and marketing claims is now largely handled at the state level through AAFCO (the Association of American Feed Control Officials). This means that The Honest Kitchen must individually substantiate its “human grade” claims with each state, a rigorous process especially important for products sold in physical retail stores, where regulation is more stringent than for online-only brands. As a result, The Honest Kitchen’s human grade status carries more weight and credibility compared to online-only brands that may make similar claims without submitting proper documentation. 

What Makes The Honest Kitchen’s Products Safe for Pets?

The Honest Kitchen’ products are safe for pets thanks to their strict preparation and manufacturing processes. Their recipes are made in facilities that must meet the same strict safety and sanitation standards required for human food production, ensuring every bite is clean, safe, and thoughtfully prepared.

Unlike conventional pet foods — which are often made under regulations meant for livestock — The Honest Kitchen uses only high-quality, non-GMO ingredients. That means no mystery by-products or questionable fillers, just real, whole foods you’d recognize in your own kitchen.

Each formula is developed with the expertise of veterinary nutritionists to support your pet’s unique dietary needs. Whether your dog has sensitivities, allergies, or simply deserves the very best, The Honest Kitchen offers a wide variety of options tailored to promote optimal health and well-being.

As the brand explains, “Human grade” doesn’t mean their food is made for humans to eat — it means it’s crafted to a standard worthy of human kitchens. Every product is stored, handled, and prepared with the same care and cleanliness you’d expect in your own home, while still being nutritionally balanced to meet your pet’s specific needs according to AAFCO guidelines.

In short, The Honest Kitchen brings peace of mind to pet parents by combining exceptional ingredient quality with unmatched safety standards — because your pet’s food should be held to the same standards as your own.

How Effective are The Honest Kitchen Products?

The Honest Kitchen takes pet wellness seriously — and they have the research to back it up. Their supplements and foods are formulated with high-quality, functional ingredients that support everything from digestion and mobility to stress relief and heart health. But beyond ingredient quality, The Honest Kitchen goes a step further by rigorously testing the effectiveness of their products through scientific studies and customer feedback.

In one of their most recent In-Home AAFCO Feeding Trials, The Honest Kitchen exceeded the required standards by testing a broader range of health indicators — including echocardiograms for dogs on their grain-free diets. The results confirmed that their recipes support overall health and, notably, cardiovascular wellness in dogs.

Another study focused on their dehydrated fish recipe revealed that 73% of dogs with skin issues showed improvement, with 27% of those seeing complete resolution of symptoms. Even more compelling, 81% of participants experienced additional, unexpected health or behavioral benefits.

These scientific findings align with what pet parents consistently report: real, visible improvements in their pets’ well-being. From better digestion and increased mobility to reduced anxiety and healthier skin, many owners say they see results within just a few weeks.

By combining science-backed formulas with ongoing customer feedback, The Honest Kitchen ensures their supplements and foods are not just safe, but truly effective.

Do Pet Owners Notice Long-Term Benefits From Using The Honest Kitchen’s Products?

Pet owners consistently notice long-term health benefits in their animals with regular use of The Honest Kitchen food products. Each recipe, treat, and supplement is carefully formulated with a balanced blend of scientifically backed ingredients to support overall wellness from the inside out.

In a recent customer survey of over 1,000 pet parents who feed The Honest Kitchen’s complete and balanced recipes daily, the reported results speak volumes:

• 77% of customers saw improved overall well-being and energy
  
• 80% reported better digestion
  
• 71% noticed healthier skin and shinier coat

These results reflect feedback from customers whose pets experienced specific health concerns — and while individual results may vary, the trends are compelling.

You can explore many of these real-life transformations through the brand’s True Stories — firsthand testimonials from pet parents who’ve seen remarkable improvements in their pets’ health since switching to The Honest Kitchen. These stories reinforce what the data shows: thoughtfully made, human-grade nutrition can make a lasting difference.

How do The Honest Kitchen Products Address Specific Health Needs of Pets?

The Honest Kitchen offers a wide range of thoughtfully crafted recipes designed to support pets with specific dietary needs or health conditions. Whether your vet has recommended a low-sodium, low-phosphorus, low-carb, or high-protein diet, The Honest Kitchen provides tailored options to help meet those nutritional guidelines — making it easier to manage conditions like diabetes or kidney disease through food. Their team is also available for one-on-one product consultations to guide pet parents toward the best match for their pet’s unique health requirements.

For pets with food sensitivities or allergies, The Honest Kitchen offers limited ingredient recipes made with just six whole food ingredients plus essential vitamins and minerals. These simple yet complete meals minimize the risk of triggering intolerances without sacrificing nutrition. Additionally, their base mix recipes allow pet parents to add their own raw or cooked protein — a flexible solution ideal for dogs with specific protein allergies or rotating diets.

Are There Any Side Effects Associated With The Honest Kitchen’s Products?

Like with any dietary change, some pets may experience mild side effects when transitioning to The Honest Kitchen’s food or supplements — but these instances are rare and typically short-lived. Based on customer feedback, the most commonly reported reaction is temporary digestive discomfort, such as mild gas or looser stools, often occurring during the initial adjustment period. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s always a good idea to introduce new products gradually and consult your veterinarian, especially if your pet has known allergies or pre-existing conditions.

According to The Honest Kitchen, one of the most noticeable changes pet parents might observe is an increase in stool volume — particularly when switching to their dehydrated whole food recipes. This is completely normal. These high-moisture, high-fiber meals are made with real, colorful ingredients like carrots and spinach, and it’s common to see small pieces of these whole foods appear in your pet’s stool. Despite their visibility, the nutrients, phytonutrients, and antioxidants are still being absorbed effectively.

In most cases, the “side effects” are simply signs that your pet is adjusting to a fresher, more natural diet — one that supports long-term health and vitality.

Are The Honest Kitchen Products Suitable for All Dogs and Cats?

Yes — The Honest Kitchen offers a comprehensive range of products tailored to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and cats at every life stage. For dogs, their lineup includes recipes specially formulated for puppies (including large breeds), adults, and senior dogs, ensuring balanced support from early growth to golden years. For cats, all recipes are carefully crafted to provide complete and balanced nutrition for both kittens and adult cats. With species- and age-appropriate formulations, The Honest Kitchen makes it easy to find the right fit for your pet’s unique stage of life.

What Sets The Honest Kitchen Apart From Their Competitors?

The Honest Kitchen distinguishes itself through a combination of human-grade quality, rigorous safety standards, and a strong commitment to ethical business practices as a certified B Corporation. Unlike conventional pet foods, The Honest Kitchen’s products are made in facilities that meet the same safety and cleanliness standards as those used for human food production. Their ingredient sourcing also prioritizes non-GMO, whole food components, reflecting a focus on both nutrition and transparency.

While their products may carry a higher price point than traditional kibble, they are positioned as a more accessible alternative to fresh, freeze-dried, or raw diets — offering shelf stability, ease of preparation, and consistent quality. The Honest Kitchen aims to strike a balance between premium nutrition and everyday practicality, making it easier for pet owners to integrate higher-quality feeding options into their daily routines.

What Are the Pros and Cons of The Honest Kitchen’s Products?

How Can You Easily Transition Your Pet to The Honest Kitchen’s Products?

Transitioning your pet to The Honest Kitchen is a straightforward process, but doing it gradually helps ensure a smooth adjustment—especially for dogs accustomed to processed kibble or canned food. For most pets, a 7–10 day transition period is recommended, though those already on a varied, raw, or home-cooked diet may adapt more quickly—often within 5 days.

Begin by mixing a small amount of The Honest Kitchen food into your pet’s current meals. A good starting point is ¼ Honest Kitchen and ¾ of their original food, though more sensitive dogs may benefit from an even slower introduction. For pets with hardier stomachs, a ½ and ½ split might work well. Gradually increase the portion of The Honest Kitchen food while reducing the previous diet each day. This allows your pet’s digestive system and gut flora to adjust comfortably to the new nutrition.

Every pet is unique, so it’s important to monitor their response and adjust the transition pace as needed for their size, sensitivity, and overall health.

What is The Honest Kitchen’s Delivery and Shipping Process?

The Honest Kitchen offers dependable and trackable shipping options, so customers can monitor their delivery every step of the way. Orders over $49 qualify for free shipping, making it even easier to stock up on essentials. For added peace of mind, every purchase is backed by a 90-day money-back guarantee.

If you’re not completely satisfied, The Honest Kitchen will provide a free return shipping label and an RMA number for authorized returns. To qualify, the product must be at least half full, remain in its original packaging, and not be expired. Please note that final sale items, such as short-dated promotions, are not eligible for return. Refunds are issued to the original payment method, excluding any original shipping fees. Returns are not accepted after 90 days from the purchase date.

This flexible return policy reflects The Honest Kitchen’s commitment to customer satisfaction and product quality.

How Does The Honest Kitchen’s Subscription Service Work?

The Honest Kitchen makes it easy to ensure you never run out of your pet’s favorite meals. Customers can order products on-demand or set up a flexible subscription directly through the website. Simply select the “Subscribe” option on your chosen product, then choose the delivery frequency that fits your needs.

Subscriptions can be customized per product—so you might receive treats weekly and food monthly—or bundled into a single recurring order. New subscribers receive 25% off their first subscription, followed by an ongoing 5% discount on every recurring order.

Managing your subscription is just as simple. You can pause, cancel, or adjust delivery schedules anytime through your online account, giving you full control over your pet’s pantry.

How Environmentally Friendly is The Honest Kitchen’s Packaging?

The Honest Kitchen prioritizes sustainability in its packaging choices, aiming to reduce environmental impact without compromising product quality. As of 2023, over 60% of its packaging is made from renewable materials and is fully recyclable. Additionally, all virgin paperboard used in its packaging comes from responsibly managed forests that are certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These choices reflect the company’s broader commitment to reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices across its supply chain.

What Do Customers and Veterinarians Say About The Honest Kitchen?

For over two decades, The Honest Kitchen has been a pioneer in revolutionizing the pet food industry with its commitment to human-grade, whole food nutrition. What began as a mission to raise the standards for pet food has grown into a trusted name backed by more than 50,000 five-star reviews and thousands of customer testimonials. Pet parents consistently report improved appetite, digestion, and overall health—even among notoriously picky eaters. Many pet parents credit The Honest Kitchen for not only making mealtime enjoyable again, but also for supporting their pets’ long-term health. Veterinarians echo this praise, with Dr. Leilani Alvarez, DVM, noting the brand’s exceptional quality and unwavering dedication to nutritional excellence. As The Honest Kitchen continues to set benchmarks in transparency, safety, and innovation, it remains a go-to choice for pet owners seeking real food that delivers real results.