Living in New York City means my days are busy and my nights are short. The one constant in my routine is my Westie, Otis. He’s the kind of dog who struts down the street like he owns the block, makes friends with every doorman in the neighborhood, and insists on taking the scenic route through Central Park.
When I first adopted Otis, I ordered Cesar on Amazon. I wanted an option that seemed healthier than kibble but also convenient and affordable. After dealing with some skin and tummy troubles, I was encouraged by a friend to explore fresh food options instead, which led me to JustFoodForDogs (JFFD).
Here’s how Cesar stacks up against JustFoodForDogs, based on our experience.
If you’re looking for real ingredients…JustFoodForDogs
Wanting to treat Otis, I’d been feeding him Cesar’s filet mignon recipe (ooh la la). Turns out the top 3 ingredients are beef (good…), pork by-products (huh?), and chicken liver (huh, in a filet mignon recipe?)… with “filet mignon flavor” appearing later among a long list of ingredients that I couldn’t always pronounce. I was shocked to see many other fillers and additives that I actively avoid in my own diet. Not quite the steakhouse-quality meal I’d expected.
By contrast, I’ll never forget the first time I opened a JustFoodForDogs packet. The food actually looked like food … not like gelatinous mush. I could see chunks of beef (the #1 ingredient), potatoes, and green beans like something I’d meal-prep for myself. Otis sniffed the air, wagged his tail, and practically spun in circles waiting for his JustFoodForDogs.
If you want to avoid hidden additives…JustFoodForDogs
Otis has long struggled with sensitive skin, sometimes getting random red patches on his belly. My vet couldn’t pin down the exact cause but suggested that an ingredient in his food or treats might be bothering him. While researching JFFD, I was pleased to find that their food has no preservatives or fillers. It’s simply gently-cooked fresh food. Since making the switch, Otis’s skin issues have calmed, which is a huge stress relief for me!
If manufacturing standards matter to you…JustFoodForDogs
I actually stopped by a JustFoodForDogs kitchen after strolling past the Lincoln Center location with Otis. It looked more like a restaurant than anything pet-related, with an open kitchen and chefs cooking in plain sight.
I love that JustFoodForDogs is 100% human-grade, meaning their food is produced using standards and ingredients that make it safe for even me to eat. I can’t say the same for Cesar, not that I’d even want to taste test it…
Cesar is feed-grade food. I didn’t know what that meant until I researched it. I’ll spare you the (gross) details, but if you find yourself sleepless in bed one night, you might want to Google it for yourself…
If you want proven health benefits…JustFoodForDogs
One of the first things I noticed after switching Otis was the change in his bathroom habits. Less poop, firmer texture, easier to manage—gross, but true. Turns out, that’s because JustFoodForDogs is 40% more digestible than traditional pet food, which means Otis gets more nutrition in every bite.
Plus, his coat is shinier, and he has more stamina for our long weekend walks in Central Park.
If you listen to the experts…JustFoodForDogs
When I mentioned to my vet that Otis had switched to JustFoodForDogs, she perked up and congratulated me on my choice. She told me that JustFoodForDogs is the #1 vet-recommended fresh food brand. I wish I’d known sooner!
The Final Verdict: JustFoodForDogs Wins
Cesar may be convenient and affordable, but the trade-off in quality just wasn’t worth it for Otis and me. Since switching Otis to JustFoodForDogs, I’ve seen tangible changes: more energy on our morning runs, fewer tummy troubles, a healthier coat, and a dog who genuinely looks forward to every meal. For us, the choice is clear: JustFoodForDogs wins across the board. It’s real food, made to human standards, and it’s given Otis the quality of life he deserves.
