Hill's Science Diet is a more affordable and widely available option with a strong reputation among veterinarians, offering a variety of formulas for different needs. The Farmer's Dog provides fresh, human-grade food with customizable plans, making it a premium choice for owners prioritizing ingredient quality and convenience, despite the higher cost.
| Attribute | Hill's Science Diet | The Farmer's Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Life Stage Suitability | Offers a wide range of products targeting different life stages, including puppy, adult, and senior. Also has formulas for specific sizes like small and large breeds. | All life stages, according to AAFCO standards |
| Specific Dietary Needs | Offers specialized formulas for various health concerns like weight management, sensitive stomachs, and skin sensitivities. There are also options for oral care, digestive health, and joint care. | Suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, aids in weight management |
| Ingredient Quality and Sourcing | Uses high-quality ingredients and sources them from approved suppliers who meet specific quality standards. Ingredients come from North America, Europe, and New Zealand. Emphasizes ingredient biological function and maintains traceability. Some criticize the inclusion of grains like corn and wheat, and by-products in some formulas. | Human-grade ingredients from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors. Whole foods, avoids feed-grade ingredients |
| Protein Source and Content | Common protein sources include chicken, lamb, or fish. Protein content typically ranges from 18% to 25% depending on the specific formula. Some formulas use soybean meal to boost protein levels. | Beef (39.1%), Turkey (33.9%), Chicken (44.6%), Pork (36.2%) protein (dry matter). Significant percentage of whole muscle and organ meat |
| Carbohydrate Source and Content | Ingredient lists often include whole grains like brown rice and barley. Some recipes contain filler ingredients like whole grain corn and dried beet pulp. Carbohydrate content for the overall product line averages around 57%. | Sweet potatoes, lentils, chickpeas, carrots, and broccoli. Estimated carbohydrate content is 26.8% |
| Fat Source and Content | Fat content generally falls between 10% and 15%. Soybean oil is used, but is considered less nutritious than flaxseed oil or named animal fat. | Salmon oil and natural fats from meats. Beef (28.1%), Chicken (25%), Pork (27.6%), Turkey (19.6%) fat (dry matter) |
| Vitamin and Mineral Content | Formulas include essential vitamins and minerals. They often include vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Some senior formulas contain balanced minerals and antioxidants. | Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, D3, E, taurine. Minerals such as tricalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, and chelated minerals |
| Artificial Additives | Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. However, some wet recipes contain additives like caramel color. | None. No artificial additives, colors, flavors, or preservatives |
| Digestibility and Stool Quality | The brand performs feed trials and digestibility studies. Some formulas, like those for sensitive stomachs, are designed to be highly digestible with prebiotic fiber. | Gently cooked to preserve natural enzymes and nutrients, improves digestibility. Improved stool quality reported |
| Price per Serving | The cost varies depending on the product line, formula, and bag size. As an example, Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Dry Food may cost around $5 per pound, which is more affordable than some premium brands. | Plans start at around $2 per day. For a 50-pound adult dog, the price ranges from $7.25 to $8.00 per day |
| Subscription Options and Flexibility | Not available | Customized meal plans, adjustable delivery frequency, recipe changes, pause or cancel options |
| Veterinarian Recommendation | Widely recommended by veterinarians due to its focus on scientifically formulated nutrition. The company invests in research and maintains relationships with veterinary schools. However, some vets may only recommend specific Hill's Prescription Diet recipes. | Formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists to meet AAFCO standards. Recommended by thousands of veterinary professionals |