How do I switch my dog to Get Joy?

Transition gradually over about a week: days 1–2 serve 75% current food and 25% Get Joy, days 3–4 go 50/50, days 5–6 move to 75% Get Joy, then 100%. A gradual switch protects your dog's gut and helps the microbiome adapt smoothly.

Get Joy is a functional dog nutrition company built around gut health. Its vet-formulated meals include Belly Biotics™ — a proprietary blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics built directly into the food — because gut health drives whole-body health.

How do I store Gently Cooked Fresh Meals?

Gently Cooked Fresh Meals should be kept in the freezer until you're ready to use them — they stay good for up to 16 months frozen. Move 2–3 days' worth of meals to the refrigerator to thaw. Once thawed, use within 3–4 days. Keep moving meals from freezer to fridge as needed until your next delivery arrives — think of it like meal prepping.

How do I store Freeze Dried Raw Meals?

Freeze-Dried Raw Meals are shelf-stable — no refrigeration needed before or after opening. Store your bag in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. After opening, reseal the bag tightly after each use to maintain freshness and protect the live probiotics in Belly Biotics™. For best results, use within 30 days of opening. Unopened bags have a shelf life of 2 years from the manufacture date.

What is the microbiome?

The microbiome is the community of beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms that live in your dog's digestive system. These microbes help break down food, support nutrient absorption, produce beneficial compounds, and maintain digestive balance. When the microbiome is healthy and diverse, it supports digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. When it becomes imbalanced, digestive issues and other health challenges can follow. Supporting the microbiome through nutrition — with whole foods and functional ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics — helps maintain long-term digestive health. Why the microbiome matters for your dog →

What is functional gut-healthy nutrition?

Functional gut-healthy nutrition is food designed to do more than satisfy hunger — it's designed to support specific functions in the body. At Get Joy, that starts with the gut. The digestive system influences nutrient absorption, immune health, energy levels, and overall wellness. That's why we combine whole-food nutrition with Belly Biotics™ (prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics) to intentionally support gut health and digestive balance — rather than just filling a bowl. When the gut works better, everything works better. That's the difference between format-led food and function-led nutrition. Why gut health drives whole-body health → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Is supporting gut health a lifelong commitment?

Yes. Just like exercise, sleep, and good nutrition support our health throughout life, gut health benefits from consistent daily care. The gut microbiome is constantly changing in response to diet, environment, age, and lifestyle. Continuing to feed nutritious, gut-supportive meals helps maintain digestive balance and supports overall wellness throughout your dog's life. The goal isn't to “fix” the gut once. It's to support a healthy, resilient digestive system for years to come. Why gut health is a lifelong habit → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

When will I start to notice changes in my dog’s gut health?

Some dog parents notice changes within the first few weeks, while others see gradual improvements over a longer period. The timeline depends on factors such as your dog's age, current diet, activity level, and overall digestive health. The most important thing is consistency — supporting gut health is a long-term investment, and the benefits often build over time. How gut health develops over time → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

How do I know if Get Joy is working?

Many improvements begin inside the body before they're obvious on the outside. Over time, you may notice: More consistent stools Comfortable digestion Steadier energy Healthy appetite Improved overall vitality Every dog's journey is different, but these are common signs that digestive balance and overall wellness are moving in the right direction. Consistency is key — gut health builds over time. Why gut health takes time → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Why might my dog’s stool change after switching foods?

Stool changes are one of the most common signs that your dog's digestive system is adapting to a new diet. As new ingredients and nutrients enter the digestive tract, the gut microbiome begins adjusting, and stool consistency may temporarily change. In many cases this is simply a sign the digestive system is adapting. Gradual transitions and consistent feeding help support a smoother adjustment. If you have concerns or symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian. How to transition food smoothly → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What should I expect during my dog’s first 14 days on Get Joy?

The first two weeks are a period of adjustment as your dog's digestive system adapts to new nutrition. Many dogs transition smoothly, while others may have temporary digestive changes as their gut microbiome adjusts. During the first few days, your dog is simply getting used to the new food. Around the middle of the transition, you may notice changes in stool consistency or digestion. As the gut adapts, many dogs begin showing signs of improved digestive balance and more consistent stools. Every dog is different, but a little adjustment during the first week is completely normal. A gradual transition over 7–10 days helps. How to transition your dog's food → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Can nutrition help support gut repair and digestive balance?

Yes. Nutrition plays an important role in supporting the gut's natural ability to maintain balance and resilience. The digestive system is constantly renewing itself, and the nutrients your dog consumes help support that process. Whole foods, quality proteins, fiber, and gut-supportive ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics can help nourish beneficial bacteria and promote a healthier digestive environment. While every dog is different, consistent nutrition can help support digestive balance over time. How biotics support the gut → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Why doesn’t better nutrition create overnight results?

Health and wellness are an investment, not a quick fix. When you change your dog's food, their digestive system and gut microbiome need time to adjust. Beneficial bacteria are adapting, nutrient absorption is changing, and the body is learning to process new ingredients. Some dogs show improvements quickly, while others need more time. The goal isn't a dramatic overnight transformation. It's helping your dog build a stronger foundation for long-term health and wellbeing. How gut health builds over time → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Why is consistency important for gut health?

Gut health is built meal by meal, not overnight. Just like people don't see the benefits of healthy eating after a single salad, dogs don't experience lasting digestive improvements from one bowl of food. The gut microbiome responds to consistent habits over time. Feeding a nutritionally balanced diet every day helps create an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive and support digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall wellness. Consistency is often one of the most important ingredients in long-term health. Why consistency matters for gut health → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What does a healthy gut look like in dogs?

A healthy gut does much more than digest food — it supports nutrient absorption, immune health, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. Signs of a healthy gut in dogs may include: Consistent, well-formed stools Healthy appetite Steady energy throughout the day Comfortable digestion Healthy skin and coat Because the gut influences so many systems throughout the body, supporting digestive health helps your dog thrive from the inside out. How to support your dog's gut → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What is Belly Biotics™?

Belly Biotics™ is Get Joy's proprietary gut-health blend built structurally into every Freeze-Dried Raw Meal — not added as a separate supplement or sprinkled on after processing. It combines three components that work together as one complete system: Prebiotics (Inulin)Dietary fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria already living in your dog's gut. Without prebiotics, probiotics have limited fuel to establish and survive. Probiotics (5 strains)Live beneficial microorganisms including Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei, L. reuteri, and Bifidobacterium animalis — replenishing and supporting a balanced gut microbiome. Get Joy retains 3 billion CFU per pound, one of the highest concentrations in pet food. Postbiotics (Yeast Culture)The bioactive compounds produced when probiotics ferment prebiotics — including short-chain fatty acids that nourish the gut lining and support immune regulation. Postbiotics are the functional output of a healthy gut. Most foods stop at probiotics. We go one step further. All three depend on each other, which is why Belly Biotics™ was designed as a complete, integrated system rather than a single-ingredient supplement. This is what makes Get Joy function-led nutrition — not just food. Pre, pro & postbiotics explained → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What ingredients are in the supplements? Are they safe for any dog?

Yes. Our supplements are made with clinically backed functional ingredients and are formulated to be safe for dogs of all ages and breeds. Each blend provides targeted daily support: Mobility: Glucosamine, MSM, and Green-Lipped Mussel to support healthy joints and mobility. Calm: L-theanine, Passion Flower, and Valerian Root to promote relaxation and stress support. Digestion: L-Glutamine, probiotics, and kelp to support gut health and healthy digestion. As always, check with your veterinarian if your dog has specific medical conditions or dietary sensitivities.

Is every bundle okay for puppies?

Yes. Our bundles are great for every stage of life, though some wellness formulas are better suited for specific life stages or needs — like our Puppy Essentials. Check each product page for age recommendations and feeding guidance.

Can I combine multiple supplements together?

Yes. Our supplements are designed to work together as part of a balanced daily wellness routine. Many dogs benefit from targeted support across multiple areas like digestion, calming, skin & coat, or mobility. If your dog has specific health concerns or takes medications, we recommend checking with your veterinarian before adding new supplements.

Does my dog need supplements?

Supplements help provide targeted support where your dog needs it most — whether that's digestion, joints, skin & coat, calming support, or everyday wellness alongside a balanced diet. Get Joy meals already build in gut support through Belly Biotics™, so supplements are a way to layer in focused help for specific goals. If your dog has a specific health concern or takes medication, check with your veterinarian before adding a new supplement. Start with gut health →

How long does it take to see results?

Every dog is different, but most pet parents notice benefits within a few weeks (around 30 days) of consistent daily use. Some support areas — like digestion or calming — may show results sooner, while mobility and joint support can take longer to build over time. Consistency is key for the best results.

Which bundle is right for my dog?

Whether your dog needs support for skin & coat, digestion, calming, puppy development, or senior mobility, we make it easy to shop by wellness goal and find the right routine for their needs.

What superfoods are safe and healthy for dogs?

Many whole foods commonly called “superfoods” can be beneficial for dogs when used appropriately. Examples include: Blueberries for antioxidants Pumpkin for digestive support Spinach and leafy greens for nutrients Salmon and healthy fats for skin and coat health These ingredients support overall wellness, especially as part of a balanced diet. The most important thing is how ingredients work together: a well-formulated meal focuses on balance, digestibility, and supporting the gut, rather than relying on any single ingredient. Why balance beats any single superfood → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

How much does a monthly fresh dog food subscription cost?

The cost of fresh dog food depends on your dog's size, calorie needs, and feeding plan. Smaller dogs typically require less food, while larger or more active dogs need more to support their energy. Many dog parents choose to: Feed fresh or freeze-dried raw as a full meal Use it as a topper to enhance their current food This flexibility lets you find an approach that fits your dog's needs and your budget. As a guide, Get Joy Freeze-Dried Raw starts at about $3.47 per day for a 10 lb dog on subscription, or roughly $1–$3 a day as a topper. The focus is consistent, high-quality nutrition that supports your dog's health over time. Use freeze-dried raw as an affordable topper → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What should I look for in vet-formulated dog food?

“Vet-formulated” should mean more than a label. Look for food that is: Nutritionally complete and balanced Designed to support digestion and nutrient absorption Made with high-quality, whole ingredients Backed by nutritional expertise, not just trends It also helps when the food supports long-term wellness, not just short-term feeding. A strong formulation considers how the body works — especially the digestive system, which plays a central role in overall health. Get Joy recipes are formulated by ACVN Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists® and built around a gut-first philosophy. Why gut health comes first → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

How can fresh dog food improve my dog’s gut health?

Fresh dog food can support gut health when it's made with digestible, whole ingredients and balanced nutrition. Because the gut is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, what your dog eats directly affects how well their digestive system functions. When meals are easier to digest, the body can: Absorb nutrients more efficiently Support a balanced gut microbiome Maintain consistent stools Support immune function Fresh food is a great step toward better ingredient quality. For even deeper gut support, some diets include functional ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics that nourish beneficial gut bacteria — which is exactly what Get Joy builds in with Belly Biotics™. How biotics support the gut → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What are the best fresh dog food starter options for beginners?

The best place to start is simple. Look for meals made with real, whole ingredients that are easy to digest and nutritionally balanced. Starting with a single protein your dog already tolerates well helps make the transition smoother. Many dog parents begin by: Using fresh or freeze-dried raw food as a topper Gradually transitioning over 7–10 days Keeping feeding consistent day to day The key isn't perfection — it's consistency. Over time, even small improvements in what you feed can support better digestion, energy, and overall wellness. Start with a freeze-dried raw topper → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

How can I tell if my dog is getting enough nutrition?

Your dog's body gives you helpful signals. Signs your dog is getting the right nutrition include: Consistent, well-formed stools Steady energy throughout the day A healthy coat and skin Maintaining an ideal body weight Strong appetite and enthusiasm at mealtime If your dog has inconsistent digestion, low energy, or changes in coat quality, it may be a sign their current diet isn't fully supporting their needs. Because digestion is at the center of nutrient absorption, supporting gut health helps your dog get the most out of every meal. How gut health drives nutrition → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What are the benefits of feeding dogs USDA meat meals?

Feeding meals made with USDA-quality meat means starting with ingredients held to high standards for safety and quality. But quality meat is just one piece of the puzzle. Dogs thrive on balanced nutrition that supports digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall wellness. High-quality protein provides essential amino acids for muscle development, energy, and everyday vitality. Paired with thoughtfully selected, gut-supportive ingredients, these meals can help: Support healthy digestion Promote steady energy Maintain strong muscles Contribute to overall wellbeing The goal isn't just feeding protein. It's feeding your dog in a way that supports how their body actually works — starting with the gut. Why gut-first nutrition matters → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

How environmentally friendly are your deliveries?

Caring for dogs also means caring for the planet they explore every day, so we design our packaging to balance sustainability, safety, and food freshness. Our Fresh Meals arrive in a recyclable cardboard box with insulated liners that keep meals cold in transit. We use a paper-based liner that is 100% curbside recyclable and designed to replace materials like Styrofoam — it locks in cold and blocks heat while reducing environmental impact. All of our packaging materials are BPA-free, non-toxic, and food-safe, and we keep looking for ways to reduce waste. For the most accurate disposal instructions, refer to the liner included in your shipment.

Did the recipe or ingredients change?

No. The recipes, ingredients, and nutrition remain exactly the same.

Who’s the toughest critic of Get Joy recipes?

Dogs. They're honest, enthusiastic, and never shy about sharing their opinions. If a bowl doesn't come back empty, we go back to work. That's why every Get Joy order is backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee. If your pup isn't loving their meals, just let us know and we'll make it right.

What makes Get Joy recipes different?

Get Joy recipes are designed around one simple idea: when the gut works better, everything works better. Instead of focusing only on food trends or formats, we build our meals to support digestion, nutrient absorption, immune health, and overall vitality — starting with real, whole ingredients and thoughtful formulation. We offer two types of meals, each created with the same gut-first philosophy: Freeze-Dried Raw Meals — whole ingredients preserved by gently removing moisture at low temperatures (not cooking), keeping nutrient integrity in a convenient, shelf-stable food. Each recipe combines premium proteins with our proprietary Belly Biotics™ blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Gently Cooked Fresh Meals — whole ingredients gently cooked for safety, digestibility, and flavor, providing balanced nutrition with high-quality proteins and vegetables. Across both formats, Get Joy recipes are made with real, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, designed to support the gut microbiome, and formulated for complete and balanced daily nutrition. The result is functional nutrition that helps dogs feel better from the inside out. Meet Belly Biotics™ → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

What is the dog gut microbiome and why does it matter?

The gut microbiome is the community of beneficial bacteria and microorganisms living in your dog's digestive system — and it matters because it influences far more than digestion. These microbes help break down food, produce certain nutrients, support immune function, and maintain digestive balance. When the microbiome is healthy and balanced, digestion works more efficiently and the body absorbs more of the nutrients it needs. When it's imbalanced, dogs may experience digestive discomfort, inconsistent stools, or other health changes. Because so much of the immune system is connected to the gut, supporting a healthy microbiome through nutrition can help maintain long-term wellness — from the inside out. How pre, pro & postbiotics support the microbiome → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Can improving gut health improve my dog’s overall wellness?

Yes. The digestive system plays a central role in many areas of a dog's health. A balanced gut helps the body: Absorb nutrients more efficiently Support immune function Maintain healthy inflammation levels Produce steady energy Maintain healthy skin and coat Because so much of the immune system is connected to the gut, improving digestive balance can support overall wellness from the inside out. This is the heart of Get Joy's gut-first approach. Why gut health is whole-body health → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

How do I know if my dog has gut health issues?

Digestive imbalance can show up in several ways — some obvious, some easy to overlook. Common signs of gut imbalance in dogs include: Inconsistent stools Gas or digestive sensitivity Frequent itching or skin irritation Low or inconsistent energy Changes in appetite Occasional vomiting or stomach upset Because the gut plays such an important role in digestion, immunity, and inflammation balance, these symptoms can point to a digestive system that needs better support. Improving nutrition and supporting the gut microbiome can often help restore balance over time. If symptoms are severe or persistent, consult your veterinarian. How to support your dog's gut → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

Do dogs need probiotics in their food?

Probiotics can play an important role in supporting the balance of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut. A healthy gut microbiome helps with digestion, nutrient absorption, immune support, and maintaining a stable digestive environment. Many dog parents choose foods that include prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics — these work together to nourish beneficial bacteria and maintain a healthy gut ecosystem. Consistent dietary support helps maintain that balance over time. That's why Get Joy builds Belly Biotics™ — all three biotics — directly into every Freeze-Dried Raw Meal, rather than relying on a sprinkle-on probiotic alone. Pre, pro & postbiotics explained → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →

The Get Joy Blog

Word Around The Park

Q: Is there a discount for trying Get Joy?

Yes — new customers get 50% off their first order, then 10% off every order after that. Every order is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Q: Why did Neil Patrick Harris invest in Get Joy?

In Neil Patrick Harris's words: “Our dogs have been devouring Get Joy for the past three years. So, rather than just continuing to order the food, I decided to invest and become an owner. I'm putting my money where their paws are.”

Q: What dog food does Neil Patrick Harris feed his dogs?

Neil Patrick Harris's dogs — Gidget, Spike, Chunk, and Bianca — eat Get Joy Freeze Dried Raw Meals with Belly Biotics™ built in, along with Get Joy superfood organ treats and targeted supplements.

Q: Is Neil Patrick Harris an owner of Get Joy?

Yes. Neil Patrick Harris is a co-owner and investor in Get Joy. He and his family fed their four dogs Get Joy for three years as regular customers before he invested in the company in 2026.

Q: What's included in each bundle?

In every bundle, our experts choose the right products based on the area of support. Whether you're looking for skin & coat, calm, digestion, mobility, puppy, or senior support, our panel of experts selected each product to serve a purpose.

Q: Do puppies need special gut health support?

Young dogs benefit from digestive support, especially during weaning or food transitions. Their developing microbiomes are more sensitive, so choose puppy-appropriate probiotics and avoid dramatic dietary changes that could disrupt their delicate digestive balance. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet or adding new supplements.

Q: Can I feed my puppy Get Joy?

Yes — Get Joy is formulated for puppies. Both our Freeze-Dried Raw Meals and our Gently Cooked Fresh Meals are formulated to the same complete-and-balanced standard for all life stages, including puppies. Both meet the toughest AAFCO standard — All Life Stages, including large-breed puppies expected to weigh over 70 lbs as adults. Puppyhood is the ideal time to start supporting gut health, because your puppy's gut microbiome and immune system are still developing. The prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in our Belly Biotics™ blend help set the foundation for strong digestion, nutrient absorption, and healthy growth. As with any diet change, transition gradually over about 7–10 days so your puppy's system can adjust. If your puppy has specific health needs, check with your veterinarian.

Q: Why should I feed my dog fresh food vs. kibble?

Kibble is a high-heat, highly processed food often made with rendered ingredients, artificial preservatives, and low-quality fillers. While many dogs survive on dry food, research increasingly links heavily processed diets to poorer health outcomes — including allergies, digestive issues, and reduced immune function. Fresh, whole-food nutrition gives your dog a meaningful upgrade: Better nutrient bioavailability — whole-food ingredients are more digestible and usable than rendered meals. Gut microbiome support — real ingredients feed the beneficial bacteria that drive immunity, mood, coat, and energy. No fillers or synthetic additives — what goes in is what you can see and recognize. At Get Joy we go one step further: every Freeze-Dried Raw Meal includes Belly Biotics™ — a built-in blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics — so every bowl actively supports gut health from the inside out. Freeze-dried vs. fresh: the difference → · Shop Freeze-Dried Raw →