Whether you’re trying out a new dog food to suit your pup’s tastes or his changing body, figuring out the best food for your four-foot pooch can be a hassle.
This is especially true if you’re left with a full-size bag of kibble that your pup doesn’t like or his tummy can’t handle. Of course, you can always donate them to a shelter in need, but over time, the process can get expensive.
But, if you want to reduce waste and cost, you can try to find some free or low cost samples. This is not a viable solution for feeding your dog long-term, but it does mean that you will get a small amount of kibble to try. this will prevent you from having to spend money unnecessarily or bring home kilos of food that your dog might hate.
Learn more about free and low-cost dog food samples with us below!
where to get free dog food samples: key takeaways
- There are several places where owners can get free or low-cost dog food samples. These sources will never provide enough free food to keep your dog well fed, but they are invaluable for try new flavors before buying a ton of money in a big bag.
- Manufacturers often offer free or low-cost food samples, but they’re not the only game in town. You can also get some free food through retailers or even your vet.
- While free dog food samples are certainly helpful to owners, it is important to avoid abusing these systems. Many manufacturers and retailers stop offering these programs when the owner try to take advantage of their generosity. .
different types of free and low-cost dog food samples
There are several types of free and low-cost dog food samples, but some are harder to find than others. but no matter which “free” opportunity you select, it’s important to read the fine print to avoid hidden strings.
100% free dog food samples
Free dog food samples used to be much more common, but as people game the system and drive up manufacturing costs, they’re no longer easy to find. there are still a few left, usually dotted around pet stores and boutiques.
low cost sample dog food boxes
Nowadays, inexpensive dog food sample boxes are gaining in popularity. Costing between $5 and $20 per box, they contain several sample packs of food for you to try. Sampler sachets can all be the same type of protein or can offer a variety of different meat proteins, making them an attractive option for many puppy parents, especially those who are picky eaters and want to find a dog food your picky pups will love before committing to a full bag!
companies that offer free dog food samples
While it’s not as common to find free dog food samples these days, there are still some manufacturers that offer them. Some brands are better known than others, but each is worth researching if you’re looking for a new dog food on the market.
It’s also worth noting that some companies may offer free samples in exchange for a survey that includes your contact information, which will add you to a marketing mailing list.
Opportunities for free food come and go, but these manufacturers have been offering free dog food samples recently:
- zignature: Free 4-ounce samples are available at authorized zignature retailers. you can view the list on their site or request a free sample be sent to you if there is no retailer near you.
- essence – fill out an online form that includes your protein preferences and sensitivities of your dog and receive a free sample. Be sure to also read our full review of Essence Dog Food to learn more!
- The Pet Way: Take a short quiz about age, health , dietary restrictions and more for your pup , and receive a free sample of the pet food that may work best for him.
- taste of the wild: Call the hotline or visit your local flavor of the wild store for a sample.
- pet chef of ga: complete a contact form to get your free sample. those who live outside of the atlanta metro area may incur shipping costs.
- barky’s inn: Arizona residents can receive samples of premium puppy food by calling or texting Text to their hotline number.
- The Pet Pantry: North Carolina residents can only receive free samples by completing an online form. $7 shipping charge may apply.
- pawtree – This is more of a tasty add-on to dog food, but picky hounds may enjoy it to spice up mealtime food. just pay $2.95 for postage and receive a sample.
- Happy Dog: Parents of puppies in the UK can request a free sample by completing an online form and paying £2.99 postage.
- trophy pet food: parents in the uk can get a free sample by completing a short online form.
- petonly: This Canadian company offers a variety of free dog food samples and puppy parents only need to pay the costs shipping.
- Sundays Food for Dogs: A boutique dog food manufacturer offering premium air-dried kibble, Sundays Food for Dogs offers free 2-ounce samples; you only have to pay a flat shipping fee of $5.
companies that previously offered free samples of dog food
In the past, other manufacturers have offered free sample promotions. check their websites and social media regularly for future sample offers.
Manufacturers that occasionally run free sample promotions include:
- purina
- rachael ray nutrish
- applaws
- pedigree
- crave
- orijen
- I nurture
- mascot chef express
Another tip is to look at retailers rather than manufacturers. Sometimes companies like Petco or Tractor Supply run promotions for free small bags of dog food with purchase. Sales representatives also sometimes visit large pet stores during peak hours, such as weekends, during which they offer free samples of quality brands, including instinct.
You can also ask your veterinarian during your next visit if the practice offers free dog food samples.
companies that offer cheap sample boxes
Although they may not offer free food for owners, some manufacturers do have sample boxes available at very low prices. this allows your dog to test before committing to a large order. these usually contain enough food for a few meals.
If you’re looking for affordable dog food sample boxes, check out these companies:
- Honest Cooking: These kits offer five grain-free and grain-included starter boxes, make 8 pounds of food, and cost between $22.99 and $24.99.
- canidae: Purchase a trial bag for $9.99 at participating retailers.
- The Pet Provider: Browse a selection of samples available in various options of protein, ranging from $1 to $4 each.
- luke’s all natural: For $19.99 or $29.99 for a jumbo pack, you’ll receive a box containing a variety of food samples .
do not abuse companies that offer free or low-cost samples
While helpful, free and low-cost dog food samples are not something you should rely on for long-term feeding of your dog.
Abusing these programs can not only cause manufacturers to discontinue them for other puppy parents, it can also lead to an upset stomach if you constantly change your dog’s food. it can also make it difficult to identify which food is causing the stomach problems if you are mixing kibble. more seriously, it can mask possible underlying conditions if you’re blaming the new food for your stomach aches.
If you recently lost your job and can’t afford to feed your dog, be sure to also check out our guide on how low-income families can get free dog food. We also have a list of organizations that help pay vet bills if you’re having trouble paying for your dog’s medical care.
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Have you ever received free or low-cost dog food samples for your dog? Where did you get them? what type? tell us in the comments!