The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has established strict guidelines that must be met by the best organic dog foods listed below.
Regrettably, there is disappointment in stating that the desired outcome is not achieved.
Because they are produced in a tightly regulated manner, organic recipes are typically difficult to find in stores.
In general…
There are 2 categories under which organic dog foods can be grouped…
- Certified organic
- Partially organic
According to the law…
In order to display the official “USDA Organic” seal on their packaging, certified organic dog foods are required to have a minimum of 95% organic ingredients. This makes it easy to identify them as they are the only recipes allowed to bear the seal.
Certified organic foods are not commonly found.
The reality is…
The majority of organic dog foods available in the U.S. consist of a mixture of organic and non-organic ingredients, and the specific proportion of organic ingredients is indicated on the label.
On this page, as we think sequentially, let’s rephrase the following text while ensuring the meaning remains unchanged. We should avoid adding any new information and refrain from removing any existing information.
We will provide our top organic dog food brand recommendations and address the five most commonly asked questions about organic dog food.
Tender and True Organic Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic tapioca starch, organic dried pea, organic chickpea
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Turkey, chicken, salmon, ocean whitefish, and more
The primary sources of animal protein in Tender and True Chicken and Liver are chicken meal and fresh chicken. When we analyze the label for dry matter, we find that the recipe contains approximately 29% protein, 18% fat, and an estimated 45% carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 62%.
Each recipe of Tender and True, being USDA certified organic, is a unique discovery for discerning dog owners.
Gather Free Acres Dog Food
The main source of meat protein in Gather Free Acres is fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Our analysis of the label shows that the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat, and 42% estimated carbs when considering the dry matter. This creates a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 50%.
Gather’s top choice of recipes includes a balanced combination of healthy omega 3 and omega 6 fats, as well as certified organic ingredients.
Castor and Pollux Organix Organic Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic sweet potatoes, organic potatoes, organic peas
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, and more
The majority of the animal protein in Organix Chicken and Sweet Potato is obtained from fresh chicken and chicken meal. After conducting a label analysis, we found that the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat, and approximately 46% carbs based on dry matter. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 58%.
Every ingredient within each recipe is fully certified organic by the USDA, and this certification extends to the entire manufacturing process of the line as well.
One of The Dog Food Advisor’s favorite organic brands is Castor and Pollux Organix, which remains a top choice at all times.
Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes, organic flaxseed, organic oats
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, oats)
- Other recipes: Fish, turkey, beef, various grain-free recipes and more
The main source of meat protein in this Whole Grain Chicken recipe is dehydrated chicken. When analyzing the dry matter label, it is found that the formulation consists of 27% protein, 15% fat, and an estimated 50% carbs. As a result, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 57%.
In addition to featuring various organic ingredients, every recipe undergoes processing in a facility that adheres to the same standards as human-grade food processing facilities.
In addition, every component is devoid of genetic modification (GMO) and does not contain any chemicals or preservatives. Moreover, all meat ingredients are also free from hormones and antibiotics.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic dehydrated chicken, organic peas, lentils, chicken fat
- Type: Grain-free
Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinners
In our review of the Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner product line, Stella and Chewy’s Venison Blend is one of the 13 raw recipes that we have included.
- First 5 ingredients: Venison, lamb, lamb liver, venison liver, venison lung
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Beef, chicken, duck, turkey, rabbit and more
The Venison Blend recipe primarily obtains its animal protein from both venison and lamb. Through our dry matter label analysis, we have determined that the recipe consists of 47% protein, 32% fat, and an estimated 13% carbs. As a result, the ratio of fat to protein is approximately 67%.
Stella and Chewy’s ensures that all of their frozen and freeze-dried raw recipes contain vitamins and minerals that come from 100% certified organic fruits and vegetables.
For those who do not need organic meat, we confidently recommend a highly rated freeze-dried dog food.
Carna4 Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Fresh chicken, chicken liver, eggs, organic sprouted barley seed, wild salmon
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, rice)
- Other recipes: Grain-free duck and grain-free fish
The main sources of animal protein in the Carna4 formula are fresh chicken and chicken liver. When we analyzed the label for dry matter, we found that the recipe has 32% protein, 17% fat, and an estimated 43% carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 52%.
Features a number of plant-based, organic ingredients. A quality formulation worthy of consideration.
Organix Butcher and Bushel Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Organic turkey, organic chicken broth, water sufficient for processing, organic chicken, organic chicken liver
- Type: Grain-free
The majority of the meat protein in this Organix Butcher and Bushel recipe comes from fresh turkey. When measured by dry matter, this recipe has a protein content of 42%, a fat content of 21%, and estimated carbs of 29%, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 50%.
This product is manufactured in a kitchen that has obtained full organic certification. It does not contain any corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives. Additionally, it contains probiotics that promote a healthy digestive system.
A highly recommended superior canned organic dog food.
Tender and True Organic Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, water sufficient for processing, organic pea Flour, organic chicken liver, organic chicken heart
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Turkey and Liver formula
The main source of meat protein in this Tender and True organic formula is fresh chicken. When evaluated based on dry matter, this recipe has a protein content of 39%, fat content of 23%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 31%, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 59%.
The texture of the pate is smooth and finely chopped. It provides a fully balanced and nutritious diet, enriched with additional vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.
This fully organic diet is entirely free of grain, GMOs, corn, wheat, and soy. Additionally, it does not include any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It is a high-quality wet food that comes highly recommended.
Castor and Pollux Organix Tiny Feasts
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken broth, organic chicken liver, organic spinach, organic dried peas
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Chicken recipes, turkey recipes and more
Most of the meat protein in Castor and Pollux Organix Tiny Feasts comes from fresh chicken. The recipe has a protein content of 43%, fat content of 27%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 22%, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 63%.
Castor and Pollux, the top-rated certified organic pet foods producer, lives up to its exceptional reputation for quality with this recipe. The smaller physical size of this recipe makes it an excellent feeding choice for smaller dogs, hence highly recommended.
While organic food may be pricier than non-organic options, there are valid reasons to contemplate buying organic dog food brands. Numerous studies indicate that organic food generally possesses greater nutritional value compared to its non-organic counterparts. Furthermore, organic food is cultivated without the use of pesticides, which is beneficial considering the amount of chemicals our bodies, as well as our pets’ bodies, already encounter; therefore, there is no need for any additional chemicals in our food.
Why Fresh Dog Food?
At Naked Dog Bistro, our primary focus is on creating our own fresh organic dog food, although we do offer a few organic dog food brands for sale. The reason we prefer fresh food is because it allows us to carefully choose the finest organic ingredients, ensuring that our fresh dog food, along with other reputable brands, is always of high quality and suitable for human consumption.
One of the reasons why we enjoy fresh dog food is because it generally lacks preservatives, gluten, or grain. Although not all dogs have problems with gluten or grain, some may experience digestive issues or allergies, making it beneficial to choose grain-free dog food. Preservatives are commonly used to extend the shelf life of food, but dogs do not require these chemicals in their diet. Therefore, fresh dog food is an excellent option to avoid including preservatives in your dog’s meals.
In addition, fresh dog food is adored by dogs. If your dog is selective and refuses to eat kibble or canned food, you might want to consider fresh dog food as a fantastic and nutritious alternative. We offer various delightful options, but if you are not within our vicinity, there are alternative brands available nationwide that you can look into, such as The Farmer’s Dog or Just Food For Dogs. Some of these companies can even formulate a custom-made dog food specifically designed to meet your furry companion’s unique dietary requirements or constraints.
Is Raw A Good Option?
Sometimes people mistakenly think that “fresh dog food” and “raw dog food” are the same thing. However, fresh dog food is actually cooked and typically made with high-quality ingredients that are suitable for human consumption. It is important to note that fresh dog food does not contain any preservatives, unlike canned food or kibble.
Raw food for dogs is currently popular, but generally not recommended due to the risk of cross-contamination, especially if there are children or immunocompromised individuals in the home. Moreover, if your dog has pancreatitis, it is advisable to feed them cooked food rather than raw. However, we offer a range of our fresh dog food that is safe for dogs with pancreatitis.
Choosing Organic Dog Food Brands
No matter if you choose kibble, canned, or fresh dog food, there are some suggestions to assist you in discovering the most suitable option for your beloved pet.
1. Read The Label
Humans often find it challenging to read every food label due to their consumption of a diverse range of foods. Nevertheless, it is still advisable for them to read these labels. Conversely, dogs consume the same diet and treats on a daily basis, making it possible and necessary for dog owners to devote some time to reading food labels.
If you come across unfamiliar chemicals or words, or if you notice terms like “chicken meal” or fillers like corn, it is likely that the food is of lower quality, even if it claims to be organic dog food. Despite being pesticide-free, organic dog food could still include questionable ingredients. Therefore, ensure that your dog’s food is as pure and natural as can be.
2. Talk To Your Veterinarian
Your veterinarian can be an excellent source of information if you need assistance selecting a different type of dog food. Although vets typically have a few brands, including prescription dog foods, available in their offices, they are usually willing to suggest other organic dog food brands. Consult your vet to determine whether fresh dog food, canned food, kibble, or a combination is suitable for your dog. If you are interested in preparing homemade dog food, your veterinarian can also provide recommendations for ingredients such as nutritious proteins and reliable sources of carbohydrates.
3. Don’t Compare Your Dog To Other Dogs
It is important to consider that not all organic dog food brands provide the same nutritional support. Each dog has unique dietary needs, and what may work for one dog may not work for another. For instance, some dogs require grain-free food, while others need to avoid potatoes, beef, or chicken. Dogs at risk of pancreatitis should consume lower-fat options. Moreover, puppies and senior dogs have different nutritional requirements compared to regular adult dogs. If your dog has allergies or stomach problems, we advise consulting your vet about the ingredients and brands of dog food.
4. Start Small
When it comes to changing a dog’s diet, it is important to take it step by step. If you are considering switching to a different food brand, it is recommended to introduce a small amount of the new food gradually over a day or two. As time goes on, you can slowly increase the amount of new food while reducing the amount of old food. This approach allows your dog’s digestive system to adapt to the change and enables you to assess if the new food suits your dog well.
If you decide to change your dog’s diet, we advise waiting a few weeks before making any other nutritional adjustments. It is not advisable to introduce new treats or doggie bone broth during this time. Mixing multiple elements in your dog’s diet may cause confusion if their stomach becomes upset, as you will not be able to determine whether it is caused by the new food or the new treats.
