How to Store Dog Food Properly to Keep It Fresh

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Dog food is a perishable product. Fats can turn rancid, mold can grow, pests can invade and bacteria multiply. Proper storage protects nutrition, taste and safety.

Dry food

Kibble is the easiest to store, but it is not indestructible.

• Keep it in the original bag. The bag is designed to protect fats, and it carries the lot number and expiry date, useful in the event of a recall.
• Place the bag in an airtight container. This keeps out air, moisture and pests. Food-safe plastic or metal containers work well.
• Do not pour the food straight into the container and discard the bag, because oils in the container's surface can turn rancid and contaminate fresh food. Wash and dry the container between bags.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight, heat and humidity. Avoid garages and sheds where temperature swings are large.
• Use within about four to six weeks of opening. Buy sizes you can finish.
• Check the best-before date.

Canned and wet food

• Unopened cans and pouches: Store in a cool, dry place and use by the date.
• Opened cans: Cover tightly and refrigerate, and use within the time on the label, often three to five days.
• Left in the bowl: Discard after about two hours, sooner in warm weather.
• Do not use dented, bulging or leaking cans.

See canned dog food pros and cons.

Fresh and raw food

• Keep frozen or refrigerated exactly as directed.
• Thaw in the refrigerator, not on the counter or in warm water.
• Use within the stated time after thawing, typically a few days.
• Wash hands, bowls and surfaces after handling raw meat. See raw dog food diet.
• Freezer-burned food is safe but less palatable.

Freeze-dried and dehydrated

Keep sealed in a cool, dry place, and close the packaging tightly after opening. See freeze-dried vs dehydrated.

Signs food has gone bad

• Sharp, bitter or painty smell, which indicates rancid fat
• Mold, discoloration or clumping
• Insects or webbing
• Slimy texture
• Your dog suddenly refuses it

Throw it away. Do not feed spoiled food. If your dog eats it, watch for vomiting and diarrhea.

Pests and pets

Store food where mice, ants and other pests cannot reach it, and where dogs cannot raid it. Dogs that gorge on a spilled bag are at risk of bloat and pancreatitis. See bloat in dogs. Use latching containers if your dog is clever.

Hygiene

Wash scoops, bowls and storage containers regularly with hot, soapy water. Dry them thoroughly. Wash hands after handling food, particularly raw.

Recalls and safety

Keep the lot number and best-before date, by saving the bag or taking a photo. Sign up to recall alerts from your food manufacturer and local authority.

Travel

Pack portions in sealed containers, and keep them cool. Bring enough of your dog's usual food, since changing food on holiday can upset the stomach. See how to switch dog food safely.

Buying tips

Check the best-before date before buying, and avoid bags that are torn, greasy on the outside or stored in hot sunlight. Large bags may be cheaper per kilogram, but only if you can use them within a few weeks. For multi-dog homes, a big bag may be fine. For a toy breed, smaller bags are usually the better choice.

Travel and emergencies

Keep a few days of your dog's food in a sealed container in your emergency kit, and rotate it regularly. In case of evacuation, include bowls, a can opener and your dog's medications. Dogs forced to eat unfamiliar food during stressful events are prone to stomach upset.

The takeaway

Keep dog food sealed, cool and dry, and treat wet, fresh and raw food like human perishables. When in doubt, throw it out.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.