FirstMate pet foods is one of Canadian Pet Connection’s most highly recommended brands, and for good reason.
FirstMate is a family-owned Canadian manufacturer of super premium dog and cat foods at an affordable price point. All FirstMate recipes are formulated by a Veterinarian and specialised Pet Nutritionist. With a broad collection of grain-free and grain-inclusive kibbles, wholesome canned foods, and a selection of tasty treats, FirstMate offers something special for every pet.
That’s why we decided to write a FirstMate Pet Food Review.
About FirstMate Pet Foods
Proudly based in British Columbia since 1989, FirstMate is a family owned and operated Canadian manufacturer of super premium pet foods and treats. With roots stemming from years of Pacific commercial fishing, FirstMate has been a global industry leader for more than 30 years, supplying Canadian pet owners with affordable, innovative, and highly nutritious pet products.
Since their inception, FirstMate has notably grown from a modest plant to a large, modern production facility, including a state of the art human-grade pet food cannery. This evolution not only allows FirstMate to maintain complete control of the entire pet food manufacturing process, it gives pet owners increased assurance in the quality and care of FirstMate’s unique products.
Humble Beginnings
“We feel that to truly produce a superior product you must have control over the quality of your ingredients and manufacturing.” ~Mike Florian, FirstMate Founder & President.
FirstMate Pet Foods was founded by Michael Florian, a BC fisherman, who got involved in aquaculture (fish farming) after realizing the wild fish population was not sustainable. During his time around the fishing industry, Michael noticed many of the fisheries’ guard dogs were eating the fish feed, which was becoming costly for fishery owners. Since this fish feed was high in protein and essential fatty acids, the fishery dogs’ fur was noticeably lustrous. It was this observation that helped Michael identify a clear need for high-quality, affordable pet foods – and that was when the FirstMate brand was born.
What Makes FirstMate’s Products Unique?
- Family owned and operated since 1989
- All ingredients are of the highest quality and sustainably sourced
- All FirstMate products are rigorously safety tested for nutritional properties both onsite and with third-party laboratories
- FirstMate has their own manufacturing facilities providing complete control of production and ingredient supply
- Certified by Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and European Union (EU)
- FirstMate’s Executive Vice President is a Veterinarian and Pet Nutritionist B.SC. M.SC. D.V.M
- FirstMate’s Director of Research has a PhD in Genetics and Genomics, a MSc, and BSc in Zoology and Biology.
- FirstMate offers a wide variety of high-quality, affordable grain-free and grain-friendly options for dogs and cats
- Dry and canned food options, as well as treats
- None of their ingredients, including vitamins and minerlas, come from China.
FirstMate Grain-Free Dog Foods
With nine formulas to choose from, FirstMate offers a diverse variety of high quality grain-free dry dog foods. From their flagship Pacific Ocean Fish Meal, to Australian Lamb, to Chicken Meal with Blueberries, these limited ingredient formulas offer superior taste and digestibility. Plus, all of their limited ingredient recipes are grain and legume free.
While most FirstMate formulas are made for dogs of all life stages, there are also puppy, weight control, large-breed, and small-breed specific options, too.
Their newest formula, Duck & Pumpkin, is perfect for dogs on a limited ingredient diet who suffer from non-duck protein allergies.
FirstMate’s grain-free diets are gluten free, and contain no wheat, corn, or soy; many of today’s most common allergens among pets. This makes FirstMate an ideal choice for dogs with food allergies and digestive sensitivities.
FirstMate Grain-Friendly Dog Foods
Tired of spending $100 on a bag of dog food? One of the biggest benefits to feeding a grain-inclusive diet is affordability. Without compromising on quality, FirstMate’s grain-friendly line is among the most economical super-premium dog foods on the market.
Contrary to popular belief, not all grains are bad for dogs! Free from “filler” grains, FirstMate uses wholesome oats and brown rice, making it one of the best grain-inclusive dog food lines in Canada.
There are three all-life-stage formulas to choose from: Cage Free Chicken Meal & Oats, Wild Pacific Caught Fish & Oats, Cage Free Duck & Oats, and Free Range Lamb & Oats. 75% of the protein in these formulas come exclusively from meat, whereas 25% comes from whole grains.
FirstMate Canned Dog Foods
One of the most significant benefits to having your own cannery is having complete control of the entire manufacturing process. Staying true to their core beliefs, FirstMate was adamant they would not introduce any canned foods to the marketplace until they were able to have this rigorous level of security and assurance in their manufacturing.
Today, FirstMate produces fourteen exemplary canned dog foods. From their grain-free and grain-inclusive formulas, to their limited-ingredient diets, FirstMate offers hearty raw cooked canned foods suitable for dogs of all shapes and sizes. All FirstMate’s canned diets are formulated without pre cooked meats or artificial thickening agents.
FirstMate Dog Treats
A good dog deserves good treats, right? Made in small batches and crafted in their Canadian facility, FirstMate’s limited ingredient treats are the perfect reward for your best furry friend.
Overall, there are five tail-wagging treats to choose from. Pet owners may choose between wild caught dehydrated salmon, cage free dehydrated chicken, cage free chicken and blueberries, wild pacific caught fish and blueberries, and free range grass fed lamb and blueberries.
All FirstMate dog treats are free from grains, glycerine, gluten, and peas, and contain no artificial flavours or preservatives. They are also low in calories, making them ideal for all dogs, especially those watching their weight.
FirstMate Grain Free Cat Foods
FirstMate offers dry cat foods in two grain-free options; chicken & blueberries, and Pacific ocean fish with blueberries. In their chicken formula, 95% of the protein comes from cage free chicken in a recipe that is low in ash, magnesium, and carbs, and free from grains, gluten, and peas.
FirstMate’s ocean fish formula derives 95% of its protein from wild caught fish, including herring, anchovies, and sardines.
FirstMate Grain Friendly Cat Foods
If you’re looking for an even more affordable option for your kitties, consider a grain-friendly cat food. FirstMate does a fantastic job of reducing product cost without compromising on overall quality. Choose from their indoor cat formula or the cat & kitten formula, both made with humanely raised Canadian chicken and wild caught fish.
FirstMate uses healthy grains, such as oatmeal and brown rice; never any corn, wheat, or other unwanted grains.
FirstMate Canned Cat Foods
As with their canned dog food line, FirstMate really stands out when it comes to Canadian canned cat foods. Owning your own cannery is a big asset as it gives FirstMate complete control over everything including manufacturing and ingredient quality.
FirstMate offers a broad range of super-premium canned food options for cats, ranging from chicken to turkey to fish.
Overall Impression of FirstMate Pet Foods
FirstMate is quite the innovative company. Well over two decades ago, they were the first Canadian manufacturer to introduce grain-free pet foods to the Country. Now, as pet food companies further their search for unique and novel proteins, FirstMate has once again taken the lead by introducing their Fraser Valley Grub Formula canned dog food in their Kasik’s line.
Despite their creepy-crawly stigmas, insect proteins are considerably more eco-friendly than common animal proteins, and offer exceptional nutrition for pets. Grubs may very well play a significant role in pet food products in the near future. Insects do not produce methane, and require significantly less water than traditional livestock, making them a highly eco-friendly option, too.
FirstMate offers complete transparency in their manufacturing using high quality Canadian ingredients, at a price point that is highly competitive with comparable foods.
From their long standing history in the pet industry, sourcing and manufacturing practices, to product development and innovation, the FirstMate brand is impressive on many levels.
I am new to First Mate dog kibble and just received my first order from Chewy. Why is there writing in CHINESE all over the back?
Hello, Robin. FirstMate, like many brands, sell their products all over the world. Thus, there are many languages on the bag. This is standard in the industry. Nothing to be concerned about.
Why does First Mate list beef meal or lamb meal as first ingredient when other brands are listing meats as first ingredient?
Hello, Grant. Thank you for your question.
“Meals” in pet food, like “beef meal” or “lamb meal,” refer to the meat after it’s been dehydrated and rendered. This process removes water and fat, leaving a concentrated protein source. So, while it may sound less appealing than whole meat, “meals” can actually provide more protein by weight. This doesn’t mean it’s better or worse; it’s just a more condensed protein source. Both “meals” and whole meats have their place in pet nutrition, and it’s essential to consider the overall recipe and nutrient profile of the food.
It is important to note that “meals” do not make reference to any level of quality; there can be low quality “meals” and very high quality “meals”. The high quality “meals” are what is found in super-premium brands like FirstMate.
I hope this is helpful!
Is the first mate wild caught fish food ok to feed a 9 week old pup, as long as the dietary amounts are followed? Currently feeding him 1 cup a day, mixed with water. He’s a 13lb 9 week old purebred German Shepherd 🙂
Hello, Mandy. Thank you for your post.
FirstMate’s Pacific Ocean Fish formula is made for all-life-stages and is perfectly suitable for a GSD puppy. Please be sure to follow the puppy-specific feeding guide and your pooch will thrive on this high quality, Canadian-made product.
I have a Cocker spaniel mix
of cavileir and springer as well I’m trying to find a low glycemic ..low phosphorous
I read where cockers do not make traurine and there no taurine in the ingredients of first mate I bought a small bag but am concerned about the taurine she has weight issues so I bought the senior /weight all inclusive
I have been feeding her farmina weight management in which she hadn’t list any weight so I’ll be asking vet to check for thyroid ..
Before that she eating royal canin satiety and was always hungry I don’t think she did well on the corn it contains then started farmina for about a year when there was a shortage of royal canin and couldn’t get her food half the time
Cockers are prone to urinary crystals no signs of but that why I ask about the phosphorous amount
Hello, Luann.
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about your dog’s diet. Proper nutrition is paramount for your pet’s overall health, and I understand your concerns, particularly regarding taurine, phosphorus, and glycemic content.
First, it’s important to mention that while some breeds may be predisposed to taurine deficiency, dogs typically produce taurine on their own from the dietary sulfur amino acids cysteine and methionine. Many high-quality foods, including FirstMate, ensure their formulas contain adequate levels of these essential amino acids. However, if you’re still concerned about taurine deficiency, you might consider a supplement after consulting with your vet.
As for low glycemic and low phosphorus diets, these can be beneficial for dogs prone to certain health conditions. A low glycemic diet can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and aid in weight management. On the other hand, a low phosphorus diet is typically recommended for dogs with kidney issues.
Lastly, regular exercise combined with a balanced diet is the key to healthy weight management. Given that your Cocker Spaniel mix has not been losing weight on her current diet, a discussion with your vet is indeed a good idea to rule out any potential medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism.
As always, any changes to your pet’s diet should be done gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach and under the guidance of a vet.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions. I’m here to help!
Hi Brandon!
We have currently been feeding our 11 month old Bernese Mountain dog TLC Whole Life. She went into heat at 9 month and has put up a fuss with her meals ever since. We’ve been currently adding other food samples, an egg, or treat dust’ on top of her 3 meals a day as she just will not eat without something. We don’t feel she has any sensitivities (possibly beef but maybe has grown out of it now) and not sure she should be on a grain free diet. She has seemed to acquire some issues with anal glands. Previously pumpkin worked however this picky pup will not eat raw pumpkin now.
We did just put a sample of First Mate chicken with salmon on her current kibble and she devoured it.
What would you recommend as a really good quality food? Her coat is beautiful and we don’t want to compromise her health with a not so great kibble.
Hello, Michelle. Thank you for posting.
To learn more about my highest rated dog foods, please refer to my Top 22 Canadian Made Dog Foods 2022 Rankings. These are the best of the best. Moreover, consider rotating your dog’s diet regularly, as this will help keep her interest piqued without the need to add food toppers and such.
I hope this is helpful, Michelle. Please let me know if you have any further questions.
Hello Brandon, I have a 2 year old mini labradoodle ,not only is she a very picky eater but she also suffers with allergies one of the worst one seems to be chicken. We have tried her on multiple Vet recommended dog food and either she throws them back up or she will not even try them . Duck seems to agree with her especially if I mix it with a bit of wet food .I have her on Omega 3 as well as probiotics any recommendation of your dry food most certainly would help . Thank you Heidi
Hello, Heidi. Thank you for posting.
Please email me brandon@canadianpetconnection.ca, and I am happy to help.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Hello Brandon,
I have a purebred Beagle 5 yrs. Old
Is it better to put her on chicken lamb or fish and is there a differnce?
Thank you kindly!
Hello, Carla.
There is no nutritional benefit of picking one protein over another. All of these formulas are 100% nutritionally complete and balanced. I would recommend rotating among these proteins, as rotating diets regularly is a very healthy thing.
Give that some thought and let me know if you have any questions.
My 11 year old dog is on medication for hypothyroidism but is constantly getting sores all over and in spots that can’t be reached for scratching so that isn’t the cause. He’s eating first mate lamb and oatmeal but I wonder if there’s any diet changes or additives that could be made. I realize that this is probably a vet problem but I’m getting desperate as my poor dog is living most of his day when he isn’t out on walks with a cone on his head.
I’m very impressed with first mate and even more so now that I’ve read this article.
Hello, Sarah. Thank you for posting.
I am happy to help, however this is a situation that requires a little bit of a conversation. Please feel free to email me at brandon@canadianpetconnection.ca at your convenience. Thank you.
Hi Brandon – my 190lb Saint Mastiff has trouble with his ears (a smelly wax build up and when this occurs he licks his paws a lot) and we believe that it is food related. The vet said to give him limited ingredient foods and this we can do, however, these cost so much more; as you can imagine given his size he eats a lot! I’m wondering you have any suggestions for a more cost effective way for us to feed him the best food for less 🙂
Thanks for any suggestions!
S
Hello, Sharon. Thank you for your post.
I am happy to help you with this problem. There is much to discuss, please email me brandon@canadianpetconnection.ca, and I am happy to help. Thank you!
What can I add to my 1 yr old goldendoodles diets to fill them up more. They are currently on First Mate Pacific blend and they get the full required amount per day but they still run outside after every meal and eat away at the grass. I read somewhere that they are maybe missing fiber. Can you elabourate on this please
Thank you
Hello, Mary.
When it comes to dogs eating grass, there are many reasons why this happens. Many dogs, by nature, are grazers, and will instinctually consume grass. Consuming grass doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong.
If your dogs are eating the proper amount of food as suggested in the brand’s feeding guidelines, and your dogs are maintaining their optimal weight, then I would not worry about filling them up more. There is a fine line between want and need, and given the opportunity, many dogs will consume more food than they need. This is one of the reasons why there is a pet obesity epidemic happening in North America right now.
If you are feeding FirstMate to your dogs, I can assure you your dogs are not eating grass because they are missing any nutrition in their diet. FirstMate is among the highest quality brands on the market today.
I hope you find this information helpful, Mary.
Hi Brandon, I have a soon to be 15 years old/ 14.6 lbs. Shih Tzu that was recently diagnosed with Cushing disease. I have given him Royal Canin dog food (age appropriate formulas) since he was a young puppy. He’s been eating the weight control since he was about 2. As of late, it’s been impossible to find the weight control formula. Went to Mud Bay, a sales associate compared the two brands. She gave me some samples and told me to talk with my veterinarian to see what she thinks. She approved the change and Napoleon loves all 3 samlpes. I just bought the Chicken Meal w/Blueberries.
I’m concerned about him gainning weight. What do you think?
Thank you
Jerry
Hello, Jerry. Thank you for your post.
As I am not a veterinarian, I cannot comment on your dog’s diagnosis of cushing’s disease.
With that said, no dog food will make your dog lose or gain weight faster than another, providing you are feeding an amount conducive to your dog’s individual needs. You are in control of how much your dog consumes, so keep an eye on that and you should be just fine.
I hope this is helpful. I am here if you have any further questions.
All of FirstMate’s can formulas are nutritionally appropriate for both dogs & cats so perfectly ok for a dog to eat from a can with a cat label and vice versa. I buy the 12oz dog cans to feed both my dogs & cats.
First Mate fish formula for my dog was not available today. I bought the canned cat food instead and sprinkled this on his kibble.
Is it OK to feed my dog the cat fish formula ?
Hello, Valerie. I do not see a problem feeding the cat formula providing it is temporary. Long term, it is best to stick with a species-appropriate diet.
Hi Brandon!
I came across this page and ended up down the rabbit hole reading all of your articles, lol
I just had a quick question. Do you think their grain free formulas would be good for a cat who has previously had crystals? He only had them once, and after plenty of research I came to the conclusion that I think the food we had switched them too was too high in magnesium and phosphorus.
They are currently on the vet formula for urinary tract health.. which I’m not fond of because I don’t think it’s a good quality food, and I think paying $134 for garbage is ridiculous. I notice on the cat formulas they advertise a low ash content, which is why I was thinking of switching to that. Curious on your thoughts!
P.s. I’ve been sharing all of your information with my coworkers (I work at an independent pet store where we carry many of these brands!), as it’s really nice to have information from someone well versed in nutrition advocating for a lot of the products we use!
Hello, Jamie. Thank you for your questions and comments.
There are many things pet owners can to do preventatively help urinary health. Since cats are obligate carnivores, grain-free diets are more biologically appropriate, so I would certainly recommend a grain-free diet for a cat. When it comes to urinary health, I would recommend rotating among several high-quality grain-free cat foods. Regular rotation is the key part.
You may find our article on Feline Urinary Health interesting.
While these measures may help lower the risk of developing urinary tract problems in the future, there are no guarantees. Unfortunately, it is still possible for a cat to develop urinary tract issues regardless of the steps we take.
Prescription pet foods are not the only ones with a low ash content. Consider alternatives like Wysong Uretic, and 1st Choice Adult Urinary Health.
I hope you find this information helpful, Jamie. Happy to help if you have any further questions!