Pet parents around the world are always obsessed with keeping their dogs well and happy. The dramatic increase in the rate of pet owners seeking the best organic dog food shows that the health and general fitness of their canine companions are valuable.
In the last couple of years, organic dog food has changed the dynamics of pet ownership and the agriculture-veterinary business. Owners switch from kibble to an organic diet as they grew more concerned about the ingredients and manufacturing of their pet’s meals.
14 Best Organic Dog Foods
We are thrilled to guide you on your hunt for top-notch synthetic-free dog foods. Here are 14 of the best organic food for your canine companions. We hope you are excited because you are in for a treat!
1. Castor and Pollux Organix
Castor and Pollux Organix Recipe is a mixture of organic free-range chicken, organic oatmeal, peas, and barley. The recipe provides a complete and healthy diet for all dogs. With the help of vitamins, omega-3, and six fatty acids, and probiotics, it also promotes proper digestion.
This product has proven itself indispensable in numerous ways. Owners that have switched to or added Organix to their dogs’ diet are delighted! Their pets’ fur has transformed into shinier and softer coats. The smell and consistency of their dogs’ stools have also improved.
Meanwhile, price is an essential factor for many pet owners. Some consumers think that the price of the product is not competitive. The Castor and Pollux Organix Recipe is more expensive than other available options. Hence, dog owners consider other organic food brands.
Pros
- Promotes healthy coat and skin
- Rich in essential fatty acids
- Improves stool consistency and smell
Cons
- It is expensive
- The size of the bag is getting smaller
2. Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Merrick Dog Food is famous in the industry and homes for its deboned real meat ingredient. On top of that are adequate amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin to strengthen your dog’s hips and joints. The Merrick Grain-Free Dog Food is also safe for dogs that are allergic to gluten.
For years, this brand has supported dogs of all ages and sizes. Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food caters to the needs of puppies, small adult dogs, and senior dogs. Not only does it contain high-quality ingredients, but each bag also smells so good! It supplies a great deal of energy to aging dogs and its pellets are also the perfect size for small breeds.
However, there were several issues raised by pet owners. Some say that the brand has shifted down on packaging for the same price while others noticed small rips on their bags. Another observation is the increased shedding by more sensitive dogs.
Pros
- Made from real deboned meat
- Suitable for all life stages
- Perfect kibble size for small dogs
Cons
- Some dogs experienced more shedding
- Some dogs became gassy
3. The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Organic Dog Food
The Honest Kitchen Dog Food contains free-range dehydrated chicken, high protein and calories, and other non-GMO ingredients. All of its contents undergo human-grade processing in a certified facility in the USA. This product provides maximum nutrition for both puppies and adult dogs.
The Honest Kitchen offers more than just safe and nutritional content. There are several flavors to choose from to keep your dog from getting bored with its food. It has also stayed on the shelves of many pet owners because of the human-grade method that people trust.
You have to be cautious, though. Without proper information and handling of the product, dehydrated kibble may cause severe issues for your dog. It is also best to take your dog to the vet first. The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Dog Food might not be appropriate for some dogs with medical histories.
Pros
- Variety of flavors to choose from
- Made with human-grade ingredients
- High in protein
Cons
- Some dogs had issues with dehydrated kibbles
- Price is continuously increasing
4. Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Stella and Chewy’s offer food that is from cage-free poultry and organic-certified plant contents. It has protein-rich, real raw meat that supports appetite and digestion. Moreover, it strengthens the muscles and the immune system of your beloved pet for longer and better life.
The Duck Duck Goose product is loved by dogs as is or modified. It sustains your dog’s need for authentic meat and a complete diet. As you open the package, the smell immediately entices your furry best friends. Thus, making mealtimes more enjoyable and hassle-free.
But, you have to know that the fat content in Stella and Chewy’s is roughly about 35%. Some consumers have noticed unwanted weight gain in dogs that eat the Duck Duck Goose regularly. We know that dogs are addicted to Stella and Chewy’s meat, but moderation is key!
Pros
- Made from certified organic ingredients
- Supports healthy digestion and appetite
- Provides enough nutrients
Cons
- Some dogs gained weight
- Some patties are crumbled
5. Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food
Whole Earth Farms takes pride in the absence of corn, soy, wheat, poultry by-products, and additives in their food. This dog food has high levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals that will help keep adult and senior dogs healthier and happier.
This brand uses meat concentrate, which contains more protein. Also, the Whole Earth Farms Dog Food is recommended by veterinarians for dogs that need fish oil in their daily diet. Dogs that have a seizure history and seizure-related conditions are safe with this certified grain-free food.
On the other hand, pet owners claim that the quality of this dog food has changed over the past months. According to them, the size, color, and smell are different. Some dogs that are generally happy with this product also act uninterested towards the food.
Pros
- Contains no fillers
- Rich essential fatty acids
- It is grain-free
Cons
- Inconsistent smell and color
6. Wysong Optimal Adult Canine Formula Dry Dog Food
The Wysong Optimal Adult Canine Formula is one of the best in the market for active adult dogs. This food contains low levels of carbohydrate and glycemic index. It also carries organic ingredients, high levels of probiotics, enzymes, micronutrients, natural omega 3, and six fatty acids.
Wysong Formula is the trusted pet food since 1979. It effectively aids in digestion and is also vet-recommended for dogs with diabetes. Probiotics in the product strengthen the immune system of your canine companion, prevents UTIs, and encourage a good mood.
Unfortunately, there are similar reports on the poor condition of the Wysong Optimal Adult Canine Dog Food. Some regular consumers say the scent and texture are different. There might have been courier accountability. But, that is still speculation up to this day.
Pros
- Low levels of carbohydrates
- Rich in essential fatty acids
- Promotes healthy digestion
Cons
- Inconsistent smell and texture
7. Primal Freeze-Dried Dog Food Beef Formula
Primal Freeze-Dried Dog Food Beef Formula is from natural cow’s meat without hormones and additives. It is also gluten, grain, soy, and wheat-free. It contains certified organic ingredients with naturally derived vitamins and minerals for your dog’s optimum health and performance.
This raw diet is perfect for pet owners that used to prepare raw meals themselves but find it time-consuming. The essential nutritional contents in home-prepared dog food are on this product. The Primal Beef Formula also breaks the barrier between dog food and picky eaters.
Due to its healthy ingredients and tempting aroma, the most commonly reported issue on this dog food is unwanted weight gain. It is best to figure out the perfect meal portion for your precious dog. You may visit your trusted veterinarian for help on this, as well. This way, your pet gets to enjoy his food without going overweight!
Pros
- Free from growth hormones and additives
- Supports active dogs
- Provides essential nutrients
Cons
- Can add weight to your dog
- Some parts are crumbled
8. Tender and True Organic Chicken and Liver Recipe Dog Food
Tender and True Organic Dog Food is well-known for its balanced formula appropriate for dogs in all life stages. Its base ingredient is USDA organic-certified cage-free chicken. This dog food recipe is grain-free, as well.
The winning characteristics of this product are the gas odor and pellet size. Consumers have noticed that with Tender and True Dog Food, their dogs no longer emit foul gas odor while digesting. The size of the kibble also makes it easier for people with smaller and picky dogs to munch on this food.
As much as dog owners love the benefits of feeding their dogs Tender and True recipe, the price is a bit of a concern. It is relatively more expensive than other organic dog foods on the market. Inexpensive organic foods that provide the same healthy nutrients became the choice of many owners.
Pros
- USDA-certified
- Prevents dogs from being gassy
- Suitable for small and picky dogs
Cons
- It is expensive
9. Farmina Ancestral Low-Grain Puppy Formula
Are you waiting for an organic dog food specialized for puppies? This one might be it! Fresh protein, carbohydrates, and fibers make up the Farmina puppy dog food. Pea proteins, lentils, or unnecessary plants are not in the formula. Hence, the ideal nutritious meal for your growing pup!
Puppies on the Farmina Dog Food diet are more alert and active than those that are not. These dogs are also excited during meal times because of the smell and mixture of ingredients in the food. The fitting weight and muscle mass of developing puppies are observed alongside this product, as well.
Just like some of the best organic dog foods, the Farmina Organic Formula can cost a little more. Its price is higher compared to commercial puppy dry kibble. There were a few allergic reactions to Farmina, as well. So it is a must to get to know your puppy’s health background first.
Pros
- Contains enough protein, fibers, and carbohydrates
- Supports active dogs
- Ideal for growing puppies
Cons
- The price is higher than other commercial dog foods
10. Health Extension Original Recipe
The Health Extension Original Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a USA-made dog food by three family generations. It is renowned for its blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help keep your dog in shape throughout its years.
The company takes pride in never having product recalls. All because of the healthiest ingredients used to create the best organic dog food. Unappealing breath and stools, and poor coats are the common concerns of pet owners. With the right ingredients from Health Extension, you can say goodbye to those.
Although humans love the product, a lot of dogs do not show excitement when fed with Health Extension dog food. Some owners think it might be the smell or the taste of the organic kibble itself. Dogs are attracted to meat aroma, and this food may be short of that.
Pros
- Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Improves immunity
Cons
- Not for picky eaters
- Has a strong smell
11. Newman’s Own Dog Food
Newman’s is an exceptional brand known for its fiber-rich organic brown rice and real organic poultry and fish. Your furbaby will surely love this juicy, aromatic dog food that contains all the essential nutrients.
This product caters to the particular needs of your canine friends. It has helped with multiple cases of breathing problems and gastrointestinal upset. Newman’s dog food is probably the most-loved food by picky eaters, as well. The meaty smell will make your dog jump for joy!
There is not much lousy feedback for Newman’s Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe. But, some customers received flavors that are different from what they ordered. Remember to take note of the flavor labels and specific denominations before ordering. Double-checking will prevent needless frustration and product returns.
Pros
- Rich in fiber
- Helped dogs with GI problems
- Suitable for picky eaters
Cons
- Not for dogs with grain allergies
12. Evanger’s Heritage Classics for Dogs
This organic dog food is both grain and gluten-free. It is a perfect match for dogs allergic to grains and gluten. For dogs with seizure-related histories, Evanger’s Heritage Classics is also a wise choice. Your pet’s optimal health is the target of the chelated minerals added to the product.
There is a rare significant certification on top of the benefits of this organic dog food. Evanger’s Heritage Classics is kosher certified and supported by the Chicago Rabbinical Council. Not all dog foods are certified for dogs to consume during Passover.
But, the growing concern of product supporters, especially dog owners, is the decline in quality control of Evanger’s dog food. There is the visible low moisture content in cans resulting in rubbishy dog food texture. Dogs that used to love this product now seem uninterested in it as well.
Pros
- Free from grain and gluten
- Kosher-certified
- Good for dogs with histories of seizure
Cons
- Low moisture content
13. Gather Free Acres Organic Free-Run Chicken Dry Dog Food
Gather produces certified organic dog food made from real and range chicken as its first ingredient. It is highly palatable with a single source of meat protein. It also includes non-GMO vegetables including organic lentils, blueberries, cranberries, and peas that are rich in antioxidants.
This dog food contains EPA and DHA fatty acids that support heart and brain development and function, plus healthy skin and coat. It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals to provide balanced and complete nutrition for adult dogs.
Pros
- Free from corn, wheat, and soy
- Does not contains artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors
- Highly palatable
Cons
- Not for dogs with chicken and lentils allergies
- Has a strong smell
14. Purina Beyond Organic Chicken, Egg & Carrot Recipe Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Purina Beyond is made with a free-range chicken as its first ingredient raised without growth hormones and antibiotics. It is a nutrient-dense dry dog food that your small breed dogs will love. It is free from soy, wheat, corn, and poultry by-products.
This dog food is loaded with antioxidants to help improve your dog’s immune system and digestion. It contains enough level of protein to develop your dog’s lean and strong muscles. Purina Beyond is certified by USDA. It means they did not use prohibited synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
Pros
- Free from artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors
- The right size of kibbles for small dogs
- Loaded with essential vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Not for dogs with egg and chicken allergies
What Are Organic Dog Foods?
Natural ingredients make up organic dog food. Livestock for organic food is fed wholesome feeds and does not consume antibiotics or growth hormones. Fruits and vegetables, as well, are cultivated without the use of human-made pesticides, fertilizers, and extenders.
Commercial dry food, on the other hand, is usually the most inexpensive. However, the high levels of heat in the process cause nutrients such as protein and vitamins C and E to dry up. The same system also creates carcinogens – the leading cause of cancer and other fatal diseases in canines. Unlike the famous dry kibble, organic dog food does not undergo a very high heat process. Thus, retaining its essential nutrients. Because of this, the biggest difference between organic and kibble is the impact on a dog’s overall wellness.
Dog owners and veterinarians alike, find organic dog food more nutritious and reliable. The presence of real vitamins and minerals results in smoother skin, better breath, and healthier-looking stool. Moreover, feeding your beloved pet the best organic dog food has long-term advantages. An increased immunity, lowered risk for common canine illnesses, and a longer life expectancy are some of them. Thanks to non-toxic, quality ingredients, and techniques!
How To Choose The Right Organic Dog Food?
With several brands in the market, choosing the best organic dog food for your pet can be a bit of a challenge. We are eager to help you out! See our comprehensive checklist for organic dog food shopping below.
Go for Organic, Not Natural
To this day, some people still think that organic and natural food are the same. That is not the case. Here’s why:
A dog food’s base ingredient is meat. The branding “natural” means that in the course of converting the meat to dog food, there have been no synthetic elements added. However, it does not necessarily state natural farming. The use of growth hormones and the like is still possible. “Organic,” on the other hand, means that chickens and cows lived quality lives and ate high-grade organic food. And just like natural food, there have been no additives involved in the processing. Organic dog food is the total package.
So, the next time you’re going out to buy organic dog food for your canine companions, take a closer look at the certification seals, listed ingredients, and other labels. Make sure that you are bringing home real organic dog food to your pets.
Opt for Gluten-Free
Gluten causes health issues in many dogs. Some of these are skin and ear infections and gastrointestinal difficulties. Dogs that are allergic to this need a no-gluten diet. Fortunately, some of the best organic dog food brands are gluten-free.
Visit your trusted veterinarian to know if your dog is hypersensitive to gluten. Also, you have to take note that gluten-free and grain-free are two different classifications. Make it a habit to carefully examine the labels before buying.
Ingredients
As a responsible pet owner, you have to pay attention to the substances that enter your dog’s body, as well. The list of ingredients will point you to the direction of the best organic dog foods. For starters, consider brands that are more transparent about their ingredients than others.
Some varieties use vague names. Examples are animal by-products and animal fat. Usually, these imply unnatural substitutes. Find a brand that is open and honest to the specific ingredients. This way, you can educate yourself on what is healthy and not for your dog.
Then, you will have to read the labels closely. When it says, “Made with Organic Ingredients,” about 70% of the elements meet the organic standards of USDA. But, when it reads “USDA Organic,” 95% of its contents are USDA-approved. A 25% gap in the quality of ingredients is a huge deal.
Certifications
Lastly, certifications are significant when searching for the best organic dog food. Certificates serve as an assurance of a company’s dedication to providing safe and nutritious products. Acknowledgment from the FDA, USDA, and AAFCO means that the company has complied with voluntary inspection and product testings.
But, inspection and certification from these boards are not for free. Some companies choose not to undergo examinations because of the price they are required to pay. Nonetheless, they are still allowed to put their products on the shelves.
You will notice a seal on the packaging when the company fulfills the requirements of the food regulatory boards. Products that carry a certification seal are preferable to consume. They are also highly recommended by the inspecting bodies.
Organic Dog Foods – FAQs
This guide will not be complete without frequently asked questions! We know that you may still want clarifications. That is what we are here for, so keep reading our additional information below.
The healthiest natural dog food depends on your pup’s specific needs. Many organic and natural dog food brands contain wholesome ingredients for holistic pet well-being. Reading the labels of each brand is the key.
More protein is for puppies and young adult dogs. Senior dogs require more vitamins. Canines with diseases often need fish oils, more minerals, and less grain in their diet. There are different nutritional requirements for every dog. Your task as a pet parent is to determine which of these ingredients will help your dog flourish.
Ultimately, organic dog food is better than commercial dry dog food. The manufacturing process of commercial kibble omits essential nutrients. More so, it gives rise to carcinogenic pellets that can cause cancer and other canine illnesses.
The ingredients in organic dog foods carry the secret to a well-rounded, healthier, and satisfied companion. These are protein, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, and many more.
With a hundred other options out there, you must be confused about which ones to trust. As for us, we have our top ten in mind. You can refer to this list and do some more research. Familiarizing yourself with these products can be an advantage for you and your dog. If you are looking for organic food that is sure to entice your picky dog to eat, you should consider the following brands:
1. Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties
2. Primal Freeze-Dried Dog Food Beef Formula
3. Newman’s Own Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice
4. Farmina Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food
5. The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Organic Whole Grain Dog Food
If you want organic foods that contain additional healthy nutrients, you should try these instead:
1. Health Extension Original Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe
2. Wysong Optimal Adult Canine Formula Dry Dog Food
3. Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food
4. Castor and Pollux Organix Organic Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe
5. Evanger’s Heritage Classics for Dogs
As a bonus, check out this short catalog of the best dog foods to feed an active and athletic dog!
Among other reliable organic dog foods, Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties is the front-runner. If you are looking for dog food that can make your fur baby look forward to feeding time, this is the food to get!
Stella and Chewy’s carry a distinct meaty smell that appeals to a dog’s appetite. The patties are also juicy with or without cooking. And the best part of all this? Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Patties are jam-packed with wholesome ingredients for your pet’s healthy diet!
Just like humans, our canine companions’ lives are affected by what they eat. But, they cannot decide for themselves. Therefore, it is your job as pet owners to protect their wellness. Always consider organic dog food. There is no acceptable reason to feed your pets with harmful foods.
Take time to inspect dog food labels. Study these ingredients and choose the brand that offers what your dog needs most. After all, their health and contentment is our happiness.
