Freeze-Dried Fish Recipe Cod, Salmon & Pork
Verified Jun 16, 2026
This is a high-protein, freeze-dried food for dogs of all life stages, including large-breed puppies. It uses cod, salmon, pork, and pork liver as main protein sources, with added fruits, vegetables, salmon oil, and green-lipped mussel for a nutrient-dense formula. The recipe also includes multiple probiotic strains and omega-3 fatty acids, and can be fed as a complete diet or as a topper over other foods.
Nutritionally, this is a very strong, high-density option for dogs who do well on a fish-forward, mixed-protein diet and for owners who like the convenience and palatability of freeze-dried food. The protein and fat levels are appropriate for all life stages, including large-breed growth per AAFCO formulation, and the extras like green-lipped mussel, salmon oil, and probiotics are nice additions. Because it’s very calorie-dense, portion control is important, especially for less active dogs or those prone to weight gain.
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At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Multiple named animal proteins (cod, salmon, pork, pork liver, eggs) at the front of the ingredient list provide high-quality, varied amino acids.
- AAFCO complete and balanced for all life stages, including large-breed puppies, which is a higher standard than many foods meet.
- High protein (38% min) and fat (22% min) on an as-fed basis, with added taurine and omega-3s (from salmon oil and flaxseed) for overall support, especially skin and coat.
- Includes green-lipped mussel and chicken cartilage as natural sources of joint-supporting compounds, plus several probiotic strains for digestive support.
Considerations
- Contains multiple potential allergens (fish, pork, egg, chicken cartilage), so it would not be suitable for dogs needing a limited-ingredient or single-protein diet.
- Very calorie-dense at about 258 kcal per cup, so portions need to be carefully measured to avoid unwanted weight gain, particularly in smaller or less active dogs.
- Freeze-dried foods can be fed dry, but rehydrating is recommended for good hydration and may be better for dogs with dental or swallowing issues, which adds a step for some owners.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Cod
Cod is a lean white fish used in pet foods as a high-quality, easily digestible animal protein that provides essential amino acids, B vitamins (notably B12), selenium and modest amounts of omega‑3 fatty acids for skin, coat and overall health. It is palatable and low in fat, but should be properly deboned and sourced; avoid feeding raw fish without appropriate processing (some raw fish can contain enzymes that affect thiamine) and monitor for fish allergies or contaminants such as mercury.
02
Salmon
Salmon is commonly used as a high-quality animal protein and rich source of omega‑3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) in dog and cat foods, supporting skin and coat condition, joint and cognitive health, and overall muscle maintenance. While very nutritious, salmon can be an allergen for some pets and raw salmon may pose risks from parasites, thiaminase-related thiamine loss, and region-specific pathogens (e.g., salmon poisoning); owners should avoid feeding uncooked bones and consider sourcing to minimize contaminant and sustainability concerns.
03
Pork
Pork is used in pet foods primarily as a high-quality animal protein and flavor enhancer, supplying essential amino acids, B vitamins (especially B12 and niacin), iron and zinc, plus fat for calorie-dense energy; it can be suitable for both dogs and cats when balanced in a complete diet. Because pork can be relatively high in fat, it may be inappropriate for pets requiring low‑fat diets or those prone to pancreatitis, some animals may have sensitivities to pork, and raw or undercooked pork can carry parasites or pathogens so it should be properly processed or cooked.
04
Pork Liver
Pork liver is an organ meat used in pet foods as a nutrient‑dense source of high‑quality protein and concentrated vitamins and minerals—notably vitamin A, B vitamins (including B12 and folate), iron and copper—that support red blood cell production, skin/coat condition and overall metabolism. Because liver is very rich in vitamin A and certain minerals, it should be included in limited amounts to avoid hypervitaminosis A or mineral imbalances and must be properly processed to reduce pathogen risk; pets with urinary stone issues or a pork sensitivity should use caution.
05
Coconut Flour
Coconut flour is a gluten-free, grain-free plant-based ingredient commonly used in pet foods and treats as a high-fiber, low-carbohydrate flour replacement and moisture-absorbing binder; it provides substantial dietary fiber plus some protein and medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs). Its high fiber content can help increase stool bulk and support lower-glycemic recipes for dogs, but excessive inclusion can reduce overall nutrient digestibility and cause gas or loose stools, so it should be used in moderation and carefully balanced—especially for cats, which are obligate carnivores and require primarily animal-based protein; coconut allergy is rare but possible.
Nutritional Breakdown
How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter
As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.What is calorie density
How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional
adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.Brand
Best Breed is a premium holistic pet food brand focusing on naturally formulated diets for dogs and cats. The brand highlights its veterinarian-developed recipes, use of high-quality animal proteins, and exclusion of artificial preservatives or ingredients. It targets pet owners seeking vet-formulated, natural, holistic nutrition options.
Visit Best BreedManufacturer
Products are made in the United States with a focus on small-batch production to ensure freshness and quality. Best Breed maintains rigorous ingredient sourcing and safety protocols and follows AAFCO nutritional guidelines.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Best Breed Freeze-Dried Fish Recipe Cod, Salmon & Pork has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Best Breed ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Best Breed. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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