Why Fresh Food Smells (and Feels) Better to Dogs

If you’ve ever opened a bag of PawCo fresh meals, you know the smell is irresistible… for dogs, that aroma is everything. Dogs rely on their sense of smell far more than their taste buds, which is why fresh food instantly feels more appealing than kibble. Here’s why fresh food smells and feels better to your pup—and why it matters.

1. Aroma = Appetite

Dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors, compared to about 6 million in humans.
Fresh ingredients like real vegetables, proteins, and superfoods release natural aromas that are more intense than dry kibble.
A strong, appetizing smell signals freshness and quality, encouraging your dog to eat eagerly and enjoy mealtime.

Quick Tip: Rotate flavors or recipes to keep the scents exciting—your dog’s nose will thank you!

2. Texture Matters

Fresh meals have a soft, moist texture that’s easier for dogs to chew and digest.
Kibble’s dry, uniform texture can feel monotonous, especially for pups with sensitive teeth or older dogs.
Fresh food mimics the texture of natural prey or whole foods, which dogs instinctively enjoy.

Quick Tip: Serve fresh meals at room temperature to maximize aroma and make them even more enticing.

3. Visual Appeal Enhances Enjoyment

Dogs can see color, especially in shades of blue and yellow. Vibrant fresh ingredients like pumpkin, cranberries, and carrots make meals visually stimulating.
Bright, varied colors paired with natural aroma help dogs anticipate a rewarding, delicious experience.

Quick Tip: Mix in toppers or seasonal ingredients for both visual and aromatic variety.

4. Fresh Food Promotes Positive Associations

When meals look, smell, and feel good, dogs are more likely to form strong positive associations with feeding time.
This can help with picky eaters, encourage better eating habits, and reduce mealtime stress.

Quick Tip: Pair meals with a brief play session or cuddle time to create a happy routine around fresh food.

Conclusion
Dogs eat with their noses first, their paws second, and their mouths third. Fresh food wins because it engages all their senses—smell, texture, and sight—while providing complete nutrition they need to thrive. At PawCo, our meals, toppers, and treats are designed to be aromatic, delicious, and irresistible, making mealtime something both you and your dog can feel good about.