In 2025, dog nutrition is getting a glow-up—thanks to advancements in food science, sustainability, and our growing obsession with treating our pets like the furry family members they are. But with every new “superfood” and wellness buzzword slapped on a label, it’s hard to tell what’s legit and what’s just clever marketing.
At BorkBites, we’re not here for fluff. We’re here for facts. Behind the branding, some trends are rooted in legit nutritional science and backed by emerging research in canine health. From microbiome-boosting ingredients to eco-conscious proteins, these four trends are the ones actually moving the needle—and making waves in the dog food world for all the right reasons.
Whether you’re a curious dog parent or a full-blown ingredient label detective, these are the trends to know in 2025.
🐛 1. Bugs for Breakfast? Yep.
Insect protein is buzzing (literally) its way into more dog bowls this year, and honestly? We’re here for it. Black soldier fly larvae might sound like something you’d find in a horror movie, but they’re sustainable, hypoallergenic, and protein-packed. Plus, they use way less water and land than traditional meat. Translation: good for your pup and the planet.
Try if your dog: Has major food sensitivities or you want to lower your carbon pawprint.
Avoid if: The idea of feeding your dog bugs makes you lose your lunch. (Hey, no judgment.)
- The insect-based pet food market is projected to grow significantly between 2025 and 2035, driven by the demand for sustainable, protein-rich, and hypoallergenic pet food alternatives. (source)
- A study found that 52% of dog owners expressed positive attitudes toward insect-based pet food, with acceptance increasing after learning about its sustainable and nutritional benefits. (source)
🦠 2. Gut Health Is the New Superpower
Think of your dog’s gut as their internal command center. A happy gut = better digestion, immunity, mood, and even skin health. That’s why you’re seeing more brands toss in prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics (yes, that’s a real thing now) into treats, toppers, and kibble.
Watch for: Chicory root, inulin, or “probiotic blend” on the label.
Bonus points: A pooch with chef’s kiss poops. You know what I mean.
- The dog probiotic supplements market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% between 2025 and 2035, highlighting the increasing focus on canine gut health. (source)
- Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics are gaining attention for their role in supporting not just digestive health but also mood, cognition, skin health, and overall wellbeing in pets. (source)
❄️ 3. Freeze-Dried Is the New Fancy
If you’re raw-curious but not into defrosting duck necks before breakfast, freeze-dried food might be your golden ticket. It gives you raw-adjacent nutrition with zero slime factor. Lightweight, shelf-stable, and perfect for picky eaters or on-the-go pups. Your dog will think it’s a treat. (And honestly, same.)
Best for: Pet parents who want a nutrition upgrade without going full raw.
Pro tip: Some brands are all filler, no thriller—read those labels like a hawk.
- Freeze-dried pet food is gaining popularity in 2025 as a preferred choice for health-conscious pet owners seeking raw, nutrient-dense meals that are both convenient and effective.
- Alternative pet food formats like freeze-dried, air-dried, baked, and fresh foods have grown more than 20%, compared to kibble’s 2% to 4% in recent years. (source, source)
🎯 4. Personalized Plans Are In
Your dog isn’t generic. Their food shouldn’t be either. More brands are offering personalized meal plans based on your dog’s breed, weight, allergies, and how much zoomie energy they burn in a day. It’s like a nutritionist, but without the awkward appointment booking.
Great for: Senior dogs, dogs with health conditions, or just Type A pet parents who want total control.
Heads up: Custom = pricier. But hey, your dog’s basically your child.
- The personalized dog food market is projected to reach US$ 282 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 10.3% during the years 2025–2031, reflecting the trend toward customized pet nutrition. (source)
- Personalized nutrition allows for smoother dietary transitions and helps prevent digestive issues that often arise when switching pet foods. (source)
Final Sniff
Not every trend is worth chasing, but these four? Solid gold (or at least solid enough to earn 4 out of 5 Borks). Whether you’re trying to ease allergies, upgrade your dog’s diet, or just feel better about what’s in their bowl, these nutrition trends are more than just buzzwords.
And remember: ingredients first, marketing later. The front of the bag might say “superfood,” but the back will tell you the truth.
P.S. Have you tried any of these trends? Got a freeze-dried fave or bug-based snack you swear by? Tell us on IG or drop a comment—we’re always sniffing out new finds for the next Bork Bowl. 🐾
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