Can you put dry dog food in the fridge? As pet owners, we always want to store our dog’s food as long as possible while keeping its quality.
But is it really helpful when we keep them in the fridge? Let’s dig in to find out the answers and discover the shelf life, dos, and don’ts when storing these foods.
Can You Put Dry Dog Food In The Fridge?

Yes. You can put dry dog food in the fridge.
While these foods don’t require refrigeration, an airtight container in the fridge or freezer can extend its shelf life if you don’t use it before the expiration date.
How Long Does Kibble Last In Fridge?
When you place an unopened bag of dog dry food in the fridge, it generally maintains its quality for approximately 18 months.
This extended shelf life is due to the controlled temperature environment of the refrigerator.
However, once you open it, the food just lasts about 2 months. The fridge slows down spoilage, but closed bags last longer.
Once opened, air and humidity can make it go bad quicker. So, remember to use it up to keep your pup’s meals tasty and healthy!
How To Store Dry Dog Food In The Fridge Properly?
Choose The Proper Storage Container
Opt for a sealable container to prevent moisture from entering and causing mold growth on the kibble.
This also keeps harmful bacteria or odors from other foods in the refrigerator from accessing the kibble and contaminating it.
Placing the unopened bag of dog food directly into a container is the best approach.
Use The Original Packaging
Stick to the original packaging of the dog food as it’s made from food-grade material, helping to prevent spoilage.
Ordinary plastics can draw out oils from the food, leading to rancidity over time.
The original packaging also contains important information about the dog food, which is useful in case of recalls.
Use Airtight Container
Consider using an airtight container, especially for larger bags of kibble. Even for small food bags, using a plastic container is recommended.
The extra layer of protection in the bags ensures that the food remains fresh and uncontaminated.
If you roll up the top of the dry dog food bag and clip it closed, placing it in an airtight container is still a good idea.
Does Dry Dog Food Really Need To Be Refrigerated?
No. Dry dog food, such as kibble or cold-pressed varieties, doesn’t necessitate refrigeration.
Unlike conventional raw dog food, which requires cold storage to prevent bacterial growth, dry food of puppies is made of low moisture content, making it less prone to spoilage.
Storing their kibble at room temperature is perfectly fine.
What Are Factors That Affect The Shelf Life Of Dog Dry Foods?

Storage Conditions
The way your store dog kibbles greatly affects how long it remains good. Storing it in a cool, dry, and dark environment is essential.
Using a food container designed for pet food storage, such as Tupperware, can prevent exposure to air and humidity.
It prevents contamination by pets like rodents and insects, which can make the dog’s dry food go bad.
Besides, extreme heat, direct sunlight, and high humidity levels can boost the degradation process and lead to the loss of nutritional value.
Quality Of Ingredients
The ingredients used in producing dry dog food play a significant role in determining its shelf life.
High-quality ingredients have a longer lifespan than cheaper alternatives containing filler grains such as corn.
Premium ingredients are less prone to degradation, maintaining the food’s freshness and nutritional content for longer.
Packaging
The packaging of dry dog food also contributes to its shelf life.
Airtight packaging helps prevent moisture absorption, which can be a breeding ground for mold growth and deterioration of nutritional value.
Regularly inspecting the packaging for damages or punctures is necessary to ensure that air doesn’t infiltrate the safe container and compromise the food’s quality.
What Are Some Signs Of Spoiled Dog Dry Food?

Unpleasant odor: A foul smell is an immediate giveaway that dry dog food has gone bad.
If you detect an off-putting, sour, or musty odor from the stale kibble, it’s a sign that the food has become rotten and unsafe for consumption.
Mold growth: Mold on the kibble is a clear sign of spoilage.
If you notice any fuzzy patches or discoloration resembling mold on the floor, it indicates that moisture content exceeding 10% is susceptible to mold development.
FAQs
What Is The Safest Way To Store Dry Dog Food?
The safest way to store dry dog food is in a cool and dry place.
It’s best to keep them in your pantry, kitchen cabinet, or cupboard because they can preserve the freshness and quality of the kibble, ensuring your furry friends get the best out of their meals.
Can I Mix Dry Dog Food With Wet Food Or Water Before Serving?
Yes. Mixing dry dog food with water or wet dog food before feeding your dog offers various benefits for your puppies.
The added moisture in wet food provides hydration, while the softer texture is often easier to eat and digest.
Mixing the two types of food ensures your dog receives essential nutrients from various high-quality ingredients.
It also enhances the overall meal experience, offering different flavors and textures.
Therefore, combining wet and dry food provides a balanced and more comprehensive diet, contributing to your dog’s overall well-being and mealtime enjoyment.
How To Choose The Best Dry Food For Your Dogs?
When choosing food for your dogs, it’s best to check the “Crude Protein (min)” value in the Guaranteed Analysis.
Go for foods with higher protein content, which is best for your dog’s muscle and overall health.
Besides, ensure the foods contain healthy fats, such as those from animal sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, to support your dog’s skin and coat.
Avoid empty filler ingredients such as corn, soy, or wheat, which provide little nutrition.
Conclusion
Can you put dry dog food in the fridge? Yes. You can put the kibble in the refrigerator using airtight or original containers or packaging.
However, it’s not necessary because you just need to place the dog’s dry food in a cool and dry place to prevent moisture or pets from accessing it.
The bag that comes in is usually the best. Remember, your dog’s food matters, so take good care of it for the health and happiness of your furry friends.