Can dog food be organic
5 Best Organic Dog Foods (2024)
How to Choose the Best Organic Food for Dogs
When it come to the best organic dog foods, it is important to know that not all diets are created equally. The word organic itself has become somewhat of a buzzword as companies realize pet owners interests in feeding their dogs food that they believe to be the best for them.
Organic and natural dog foods typically are the best for dogs to consume since great care is taken to source ingredients that have been raised in the ideal conditions and that are free from pesticides and other harmful agents. However, there is a difference between what is defined as an organic food and a natural food, and it is important for families to understand this to make the best selection for their dog.
Under the regulations established by the Association of American Feed Control Offices (AAFCO), natural is defined as a feed or feed ingredient derived solely from plant, animal, or mined sourcesnot having been produced by or subject to a chemically synthetic process and not containing any additives or processing aids that are chemically synthetic.
What this typically means in terms of dog foods which are often filled with items that would seemingly defy this description is that a natural food must be free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial colors to be designated as natural. It is also important to note that currently there are no specific rules that companies must adhere to to market their diets as natural dog foods.
Organic foods are bound by a far more stringent set of guidelines. For a dog food to receive the designation of certified organic, all plants included in the food must have been cultivated without the use of any pesticides, artificial fertilizers, genetic modification, irradiation, or sewer sludge.
Any proteins included in organic diets are also required to be taken from animals which were fed organic materials, provided with the opportunity to roam outdoors, and to have never been subjected to treatment by antibiotics or hormones.
Receiving certification as an organic dog food is a lengthy process with many hoops to be jumped through to accomplish. Regulations surrounding the privilege of labeling a dog food as organic are very strict. As a result, sourcing ingredients of this quality as well as achieving certification is an extremely lengthy and expensive task, meaning the dog food itself is more costly for the consumer as a whole.
Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Organic Dog Foods
Organic dog foods are made from the best available ingredients thus meaning their quality is exceptional. Ingredients are most often included in their whole form, and as a result, the food is nutritionally dense. This means that though a food may come with a higher price tag less of it will need to be fed on a daily basis to achieve the same results as a lesser quality food. So though the initial financial output may be high, savings are realized through fewer health issues and a food that lasts longer.
The amount of the best organic food for dogs each dog will need will depend on a number of factors. Among the biggest considerations are age, weight, activity level, breed, and the type of food itself. As a general guideline, it is a good idea to follow the suggested serving sizes printed on the bag of food. These can be adjusted until the correct portion size is determined.
As with all foods, a dogs weight and appetite can help families to assess whether meal sizes should be increased or decreased.
Dietary Requirements for Organic Dog Foods
Even within organic dog foods, some differences do exist. It is important for owners to take the time to understand what is in any food they are considering purchasing for their dog.
One of the key distinctions in organic dog foods today is labeling. Some organic foods will be marketed as containing organic ingredients while others declare themselves to be all-organic. When a food is labeled USDA Organic, this means that the food was certified to contain a minimum of 95% organic ingredients as defined by the USDA. Foods that are simply made with some organic ingredients have a lower requirement imposed on them with only 70 percent of their ingredients required to be certified as organic.
It is also important to select a food that specifically labels its proteins. If an organic food simply lists things such as meats or animal fats, these diets are best avoided.
Within the United States, the FDA is responsible for ensuring a food is suitable for animal consumption. This authority is also regulated by the Department of Agriculture in each individual state. It is important to note that though inspections of food manufacturing plants do occur regularly, notices to comply are not always adhered to, and regulations are not always enforced. This means that not all dog foods that proclaim themselves to be organic truly are.
Always look for the title certified organic on any food that proclaims to be an organic diet. Many companies try to avoid this by stating they include certain ingredients that have received the designation of being a USDA organic product. These may contain one item that has been certified as USDA organic while the food as whole is not certified.
As with all dog foods, it is important that the first ingredient in any organic dog food be a meat with whole meats preferable. Carbohydrates may be from whole grains or fruits and vegetables with their main goal being providing excellent amounts of dietary fiber and antioxidants. Lastly, healthy fats provide dogs with the energy they need and are also a vital help in maintaining good skin and coat quality and promoting healthy joints.
Any food suited for the need of an adult dog should contain a minimum of 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat. Use this criteria as a basic rule of thumb when considering which diet is the best organic dog food.
Things to Look for in the Best Organic Food for Dogs
Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in an organic dog food:
- Whole meat or meat meal proteins heading up the ingredients list
- Prepared without the addition of chemicals, flavorings, fillers, or mystery ingredients
- Enriched with probiotics and helpful supplements
- Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food
- Has been certified organic and bears this designation on its label
Best Wet Dog Foods
Pork Potluck is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes studied in our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line.
Nom Nom Pork Potluck derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh ground pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 28% protein, 20% fat and 44% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
If youve ever wished you could feed your dog a fresh, home-cooked meal but you didnt know how to make sure it was nutritionally complete and balanced then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
The first time you visit Nom Noms website, youll answer a few questions about your dogs age, weight, breed and suspected allergies. Nom Nom will then create a customized, single protein diet designed to keep your dog at optimal weight.
Expertly designed by Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN).
An excellent limited ingredient recipe and a solid place to start an at-home elimination diet. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale Texture Coarsely ground Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults + puppies (including large breeds) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow.com"Nom Nom has been delivering food for our picky Aussie/Border Collie mix for the last six months. He always eats it and he loves it. It is VERY convenient. If someone is watching him while we travel - we just send the correct number of pouches. So easy. We will not be cancelling anytime soon."
This Turkey Recipe is one of 4 human-grade wet formulas included in our review of The Farmers Dog product line.
The Farmers Dog Turkey Recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%. Other flavor options.
The entire product line is designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and each recipe is made with human-grade ingredients.
All Farmers Dog formulas are 100% complete and balanced and meet AAFCO nutrient standards for all life stages which makes each recipe suitable for puppies, adults or seniors.
A healthy feeding option for those able to afford the premium price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmers Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, parsnip Texture Coarsely ground Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"BEST dog food our dog has ever had! Our Coton De Tulear is the pickiest dog ever. We have searched forever to get a food that he will consistently eat and this is the ONLY food he will consistently eat. I love the fact that not only is it human grade food but it is formulated especially for him. His coat is thicker and softer than ever. If you love your dog feed him food from The Farmers Dog. Your dog will love it and you will love knowing it is healthy and safe."
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Chicken and White Rice received the Dog Food Advisors rating of 4.5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this range made by Just Food For Dogs, a company founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Shawn Buckley.
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Chicken and White Rice derives the bulk of its protein from chicken, which is naturally rich in the 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 33% protein, 11% fat and 49% carbohydrates. . . with a fat to protein ratioof 53%.
This Pantry Fresh range is vet-recommended, fresh, human-grade food. They can be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened).
Read our review of the full Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Water, chicken, rice, carrots and spinach Texture Wet Type Fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
"I absolutely love this product. After thawing it and serving it, you can visibly see the nutrients and the fact that it is human grade food. It looks like food I would eat for lunch. I mix it with kibble since we still are on a budget, however my dog loves it!! She gets a cup of this food and a cup of kibble per meal, and she destroys the wet food before touching the kibble. It's also super easy to use in a slow feeder or puzzle feeder! It has also helped my dog with her energy levels, and overall she's more energetic and ready for the day with this food. 11/10 would recommend and would buy again!!!"
Turkey Pawella is one of4 fresh recipescontained inour reviewof the A Pup Above product line.
A Pup Above Turkey Pawella acquires the better part of its meat protein fromfresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 22% fat and 27% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
The formula also includes zinc amino acid complex and 3 otherchelated minerals, costly supplements found in better quality pet foods.
An exceptionallimited ingredientdiet. And a solid option for dogs with suspectedfood intolerances. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full A Pup Above Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey hearts, turkey livers, turkey gizzards, tomatoes Type Grain or grain-free (depends on recipe) AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Beef, Pork, Chicken Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at APupAbove.com"Mealtime is so much more fun with A Pup Above! Grizzly can sometimes be a picky eater, but watching him chow down his food when I add this to his meal is just so satisfying. Thanks for making mealtime so easy and delicious for us!"
Raised Right Beef is one of11 fresh recipesincluded inour reviewof the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein fromfresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only The Turkey Patty is one of 6 frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
The We Feed Raw Turkey Patty derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free, raw frozen Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
All Life Stages Chicken and Rice is one of 4 canned recipes included in our review of the Canidae product line.
This recipe derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 41% protein, 30% fat and 22% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 72%.
A superior, all life stages, wet formula. Free of corn, wheat or soy. Highly recommended.
See all 4 available recipes
Read our review of the full Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, dried egg product, brown rice Texture Finely-chopped pat Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 41% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"All 4 of my dogs love it. I love the ingredients. It's nice and soft, easy to mix into dry food. And my old man teddy who doesn't have bottom teeth likes how soft it is too."
Merrick Cowboy Cookout is one of 10 canned recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic product line.
Cowboy Cookout takes the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
A healthy, grain-free food for adults or puppies. Highly recommended.
See all 10 available recipes
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, beef broth, chicken broth, beef liver, carrots Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My retriever loves it. She is a difficult dog to feed as she either doesn't like it or it upsets her stomach. This is a winner, she loves it, and it settles well with her digestive track."
Ollie Turkey is one of 4 human-grade recipes covered in our review of the Ollie fresh dog food product line.
Ollie Turkey derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh turkey and organ meat. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
The company designs each custom feeding plan based on your dogs weight, age, breed type, activity level and allergies and then recommends a precise portion size, according to the number of calories needed to keep your dog at ideal weight.
The food is delivered to you on a flexible schedule. Once in your home, store the food in your freezer and thaw them (as needed) in your refrigerator.
An exceptional, grain-free option ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet thats as close to homemade as you can get but without all the hard work. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot Texture Coarsely ground Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 39% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at MyOllie.com"Jolene has been with Ollie from the beginning. She never has digestive issues or allergies. Her coat is shiny, she has energy, and I'm thankful I can get fresh food for her delivered at my door."
Bed and Breakfast is one of 14 canned recipes included in our review of the Weruva product line.
This Weruva recipe gets the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 57% protein, 10% fat and 25% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 18%.
An exceptional, grain-free formula. Highly recommended.
See all 14 available recipes
Read our review of the full Weruva Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, water, egg, pumpkin, sweet potato Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 57% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults & all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My finicky eater loves this food. In addition to being picky, she also has a very sensitive tummy and allergies to A LOT of ingredients found in most pet foods. This food is perfect for her - it doesn't cause any issues at all and she gobbles it up! I highly recommend it."
Wellness Turkey Stew is one of 6 canned recipes included in our review of the Wellness Stews product line.
Wellness Turkey Stew derives most of its animal protein from fresh turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 22% fat and 25% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A super-healthy, wet formula with an exceptional fat-to-protein balance. Highly recommended.
See all 6 available recipes
Read our review of the full Wellness Stews Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey broth, water sufficient for processing, turkey liver, carrots Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults & small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Not only is my Boy crazy about this Food, its low in Calories which is Perfect. It has the right balance of Protein, fat & moisture - or so I think! The Turkey has not bothered his stomach so it's been a win win & a keeper for us."
Original with Real Beef is one of 6 canned recipes included in our review of the Instinct Original product line.
This Instinct recipe derives the largest share of its meat protein from fresh beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 52% protein, 34% fat and 6% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A nutritionally balanced wet dog food. Highly recommended.
See all 6 available recipes
Read our review of the full Instinct Original Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef liver, beef broth, tricalcium phosphate, ground flaxseed Texture Finely-chopped pat Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 52% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults & small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I started putting this on my miniature pincher's dry food and he loves it. He is diabetic and it does not effect his blood sugar. This is a real blessing."
This Red Meat formula is one of 13 canned recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms canned product line.
This Whole Earth Farms formula takes the dominant share of its meat protein from fresh beef and lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 23% fat and 33% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior grain-free adult canned formula ideal for adult dogs. Not suitable for puppies. Highly recommended.
See all 13 available recipes
Read our review of the full Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef broth, beef liver, lamb, pork liver Texture Pat or stew Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Both Buddy, our 16 year old Chihuahua and Pannuccio our 13 year old Italian Greyhound loved the Whole Earth Red Meat Recipe canned dog food. They loved the change from the Stew type chunky food to the creamy recipe one. Very satisfied with my purchase of this food."
Natures Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon is one of 3 canned recipes included in our review of the Natures Recipe product line.
Natures Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 65% protein, 12% fat and 16% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 18%.
An exceptional wet option. Highly recommended.
See all 3 available recipes
Read our review of the full Natures Recipe Dog Food (Trays) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, salmon, brown rice Texture Chunks in gravy Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 65% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"She loves seafood and the chicken mix, never any leftover. Other foods would always be a hit or miss on if she would eat it but with the Nature's Recipe any flavor is Always a Hit and she cleans her plate!"
Chicken Dinner is one of 12 canned recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes product line.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Chicken Dinner derives most of its animal protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 27% fat and 26% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
A nutritionally complete canned formula ideal for all adult dogs.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Dog Food (Wet) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Texture Finely-chopped pat Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 39% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Was giving my dog a different brand in small single servings because I only give her a small amount of wet food at dinner. But I decided to try this because she is getting older and I want to give her better food. She loves it and I have noticed that her stools are better formed. Win for me and her!"
Eukanuba Beef and Vegetable Stew is one canned recipe included in our review of the Eukanuba product line.
Eukanuba Adult Beef and Vegetable Stew derives most of its animal protein from chicken and beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 22% fat and 25% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A superior formula for adults.
See the available recipe
Read our review of the full Eukanuba Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Water, chicken, beef, beef liver, pork plasma Texture Chunks in gravy Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Ive used Eukanuba since 1994 for every dog and cat Ive had. Our current rescued Pitbull wasnt drinking enough water, so I started mixing this wet food with the dry. He completely went crazy for it, even licking the bowl clean. It smells pleasing to me and visibly shows meat and veggies. And this brand has always produced good, solid bowels. So I know hes healthy, and is getting a shiny coat."
