In the crowded market of fresh dog food, finding a brand that truly delivers on its promises can be challenging. A Pup Above, a company committed to sustainable practices and high-quality ingredients, caught my attention. I tested four of their recipes with my senior Chihuahua, Papyrus, and this review shares our experience.
A Pup Above’s mission is to create dog food that is sustainable, traceable, and beneficial for pets, people, and the planet. This commitment is evident in their ingredient sourcing, preparation methods, and packaging choices.
Founded in 2018 and relaunched in 2020 by Ruth and Javier Marriott, A Pup Above operates out of Austin, Texas. All their dog food is produced in USDA human-grade kitchens, ensuring high quality and safety standards.
A Pup Above’s fresh food recipes are suitable for most dogs, particularly active, young, and working breeds due to the high protein and fat content. With careful portioning, these meals can also benefit senior and less active dogs. While the recipes are formulated for adult dogs, they can be used as a topper for puppies but shouldn’t be their sole food source before one year of age.
Several key features distinguish A Pup Above from other fresh dog food brands. Their focus on high-quality ingredients, unique cooking process, sustainable sourcing, and flexible ordering options make them a compelling choice for discerning pet owners.
Meat is the primary ingredient in every A Pup Above recipe, contributing to the high protein content. Organ meat from the same animal source is the second ingredient, further boosting the nutritional value. Each recipe also includes a blend of nutrient-rich vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, spinach, and green beans.
A Pup Above utilizes sous vide cooking, a method that involves vacuum-sealing ingredients and cooking them in a temperature-controlled water bath. This gentle approach preserves more nutrients and moisture than traditional cooking, resulting in a higher protein content and better flavor.
A Pup Above prioritizes sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients. Their meat comes from humanely raised animals, with poultry sourced from cage-free facilities and beef from ranches. The fruits and vegetables are non-GMO and grown using sustainable farming practices.
A Pup Above’s commitment to sustainability extends to their packaging, which is 100% recyclable. They also support regenerative agriculture through donations to the White Buffalo Land Trust.
A Pup Above offers four recipes, each featuring a single protein source, catering to dogs with allergies. A sampler pack is available for those who want to try all the flavors. Customers can choose one-time purchases or subscribe and save for a discount and automatic deliveries. A “100% tail wags guarantee” allows for risk-free trials with full refunds if your dog isn’t satisfied.
My experience with A Pup Above has been overwhelmingly positive. Papyrus enjoyed all four recipes, transitioning smoothly without any digestive issues. The high protein content, visible ingredients, and single-source proteins are particularly appealing. The sous vide cooking method preserves nutrients effectively, eliminating the need for added taurine.
While the price point is premium, it’s competitive compared to other fresh dog food brands with similar quality and protein levels. My only minor concern is the packaging format. Each three-pound bag is divided into three separate packs, requiring thawing of larger portions than ideal for a small dog. However, the extended seven-day refrigeration period after opening helps mitigate this issue.
For pet owners seeking fresh, nutritious, and sustainably sourced dog food, A Pup Above is a strong contender. Their commitment to quality, ethical sourcing, and environmental responsibility makes them a brand worth considering.
