Going Green Embracing Organic Dog Food for a Healthier Happier Dog
Best Organic Dog Foods
Tender and True Chicken and Liver Recipe is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Tender and True dry product line.
Tender and True Chicken and Liver derives the vast majority of its animal protein from both chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
Tender and True is USDA certified organic which makes each recipe a rare find for discerning dog owners.
Read our review of the full Tender and True Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic tapioca starch, organic dried pea, organic chickpea Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 29% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog had eczema and allergies. Since switching to the pesticide free dog food, chicken and liver flavor, her eczema is gone. I highly recommend going organic. I really like that the chickens were humanely raised as well."
Gather Free Acres is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Gather product line.
Gather Free Acres gets the lions share of its meat protein from fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat and 42% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
In addition to Gathers certified organic ingredients, each recipe also contains a balanced blend of healthy omega 3 and omega 6 fats. A top choice.
Read our review of the full Gather Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, organic dehydrated chicken, organic peas, lentils, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog Daisy has a sensitive stomach and has been having all sorts of problems due to her food that she didnt even like. I switched her to this food and she has made a 180 turn around for the better. Im very happy with this product."
Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Recipe is one of 8 dehydrated recipes included in our review of the Honest Kitchen product line.
This Whole Grain Chicken formulation derives the bulk of its meat protein from dehydrated chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 15% fat and 50% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
In addition to its multiple organic ingredients, each recipe is processed in a human grade food processing facility.
And each component is non genetically modified (non-GMO) and free of any chemicals or preservatives. All meat ingredients are hormone and antibiotic free, too.
See all available recipes.
Read our review of the full Honest Kitchen Dog Food (Dehydrated) range here
Main Ingredients Dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes, organic flaxseed, organic oats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusiv Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My German Shepherd is a fussy eater, with his fair share of allergies. Ive tried all different brands and this one makes my Shermy happy. Its a great price, easy meal prep and super filling for him. This is the first brand of food I dont have to add anything or convince him to eat what I put down for him. I think I finally found a food we will be sticking with!"
Stella and Chewys Venison Blend is one of 13 raw recipes included in our review of the Stella and Chewys Freeze-Dried Dinner product line.Venison, lamb, lamb liver, venison liver, venison lung
This Venison Blend recipe derives the largest share of its animal protein from both venison and lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 47% protein, 32% fat and 13% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Stella and Chewys promises all its frozen and freeze-dried raw recipes include vitamins and minerals sourced from 100% certified organic fruits and vegetables.
A top-rated, freeze-dried dog food for those not requiring organic meat. Recommended with confidence.
See all 13 available recipes
Read our review of the full Stella and Chewys Freeze Dried Dinners Dog Food (Freeze-Dried) range here
Main Ingredients Venison, lamb, lamb liver, venison liver, venison lung Texture Raw Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 47% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My pretty pittie is allergic to everything, beef, chicken, lamb, tomato (which is in most dog food) grain, etc. It was also recommended that we go with raw food. We have tried many brands of venison, duck, bison and wild boar. This by far is her favorite food. It is easy to store because most of the other brands were frozen. We feed her 2 1/2 "pucks" broken up and mixed with grain free dry food 2x a day. We typically add water to the pucks but she also enjoys them dry right out of the bag."
Carna4 Chicken is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Carna4 product line.
This Carna4 formula derives most of its animal protein from both fresh chicken and chicken liver. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 17% fat and 43% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Features a number of plant-based, organic ingredients. A quality formulation worthy of consideration.
Read our review of the full Carna4 Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Fresh chicken, chicken liver, eggs, organic sprouted barley seed, wild salmon Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, rice) Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com"You will notice the difference in your dog within a few days of switching them to this dry kibble. All of our dogs (2 Seniors, 1 Adult and 3 Puppies) all love the food. They are happier, healthier looking and acting (shiny eyes, shiny coat, more energy, no tummy troubles ie. vomiting/diarreah no itching skin or scratching)."
Organic Chicken and Liver Recipe is one of 2 wet products included in our review of the Tender and True Canned product line.
This Tender and True organic formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Based on dry matter, this recipe contains 39% protein, 23% fat and 31% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
A smooth, finely-chopped pate consistency. Its 100% complete and balanced nutrition with added vitamins, minerals and other trace nutrients.
Fully organic. Contains no grain, GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy. Also free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. A quality wet diet. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Tender and True Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, water sufficient for processing, organic pea Flour, organic chicken liver, organic chicken heart Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 39% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog is the pickiest dog i have ever had, never wanted to eat anything, always turning his nose up at everything I put him in front of him. Someone suggested Tender and True and it has been a complete turnaround, he cant wait to eat. Cleans the bowl as if her were starving. I highly recommend this product."
Unveiling the Canine Wellness Secret: Organic Dog Food Reviews for a Healthier, Happier Senior Pup
Unveiling the Canine Wellness Secret: Organic Dog FoodReviews for a Healthier, Happier Senior Pup
Unveiling the Power of Organic Dog Food forSenior Canines
Welcome to a journey where science meets canine well-being. I'mexcited to guide you through the world of organic dog food and itstransformative benefits, particularly for our beloved senior dogs.
Section 1: Understanding the Science Behind Organic Dog Food
Decoding the Organic Advantage
In this section, we delve into the scientific intricaciesthat make organic dog food stand out. From superior nutrient profiles toreduced exposure to harmful chemicals, discover why going organic is agame-changer for your senior pup's health.
Organic dog food can indeed offer several advantages foryour senior pups health. Here are some key points:
Superior Nutrient Profiles: Organic dog food often containshigh-quality protein sources in greater amounts than adult maintenance formulasto support lean muscle mass1. This is crucial as older dogs need about 50percent more protein to maintain muscle mass compared to younger ones.
Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Organic dog food isfree from artificial flavors and preservatives, reducing your dogs exposureto potentially harmful chemicals.
Enhanced Skin and Coat: Pet parents who feed their pets ahigh-quality, organic diet often notice improved energy levels, healthy weight,enhanced skin and coat, clear, bright eyes, and better stool from easierdigestibility.
Support for Joint Health and Mobility: Some organic dogfoods contain additional nutrients, like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids,to support joint health and mobility.
Support for Organ Health: For senior dog health problemssuch as heart and kidney disease, youll want a low-sodium food
Section 2: The Top 5 Organic Dog Food Brands for SeniorCanines
Our Expert Picks for Optimal Canine Nutrition
Here are the top 5 organic dog food brands for seniordogs, each carefully selected for their quality and nutritional value:
- Ollie Chicken with Carrots Dog Food: Thisveterinarian-designed meal is optimized for your dogs age, weight, breed size,and activity level. Made with 100% human-grade ingredients, it gets most of itsmeat protein from fresh chicken. It contains 37% protein, 11% fat, and 44%estimated carbs, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 30%.
- Nom Nom Beef Mash Fresh Dog Food: This recipe makes itpossible to feed your dog a homemade meal without all the hard work. It getsmost of its animal protein from fresh ground beef. It contains 35% protein, 17%fat, and 40% estimated carbs, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
- Tender and True Organic Dog Food: This recipe derives thevast majority of its animal protein from both chicken meal and fresh chicken.It contains 29% protein, 18% fat, and 45% estimated carbs, producing afat-to-protein ratio of about 62%. It is USDA-certified organic.
- Gather Free Acres Dog Food: This recipe gets the lionsshare of its meat protein from fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Itcontains 33% protein, 17% fat, and 42% estimated carbs, creating afat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
- Nulo Senior Trout & Sweet Potato with Glucosamine: Thisrecipe is specifically designed for senior dogs. It provides a balanced dietwith a focus on protein and includes glucosamine for joint health.
Remember, its always best to consult with your vet beforemaking any major changes to your dogs diet. They can provide guidance based onyour dogs specific needs and health conditions.
Section 3: How to Incorporate Organic Dog Food Into YourSenior Dog's Diet
Seamless Integration into Daily Life
Heres a roadmap to help you incorporate organic dog foodinto your senior dogs diet:
1. Gradual Transition: Switching your dogs diet abruptlycan lead to digestive issues. Instead, gradually introduce the new food over aweek. Start by mixing 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food. Slowlyincrease the proportion of the new food while decreasing the proportion of theold food each day.
2. Portion Control: Its important to feed your dog theright amount of food. Too much can lead to obesity, while too little can leadto malnutrition. Check the feeding guidelines on the foods packaging as astarting point. You may need to adjust the portion size based on your dogsage, weight, and activity level.
3. Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on your dogs health asyou switch to the new diet. Look for changes in weight, energy level, and stoolconsistency. A healthy diet should result in a well-maintained weight, highenergy levels, and firm, brown stools.
4. Regular Vet Check-ups: Regular vet check-ups are crucialduring this transition period. Your vet can monitor your dogs health and makenecessary adjustments to the diet plan.
Remember, every dog is unique. What works for one might notwork for another. Its always best to consult with a vet before makingsignificant changes to your dogs diet. They can provide personalized advicebased on your dogs specific needs.
Section 4: Frequently Asked Questions About Organic Dog Foodfor Senior Dogs
1. What sets organic dog food apart from regular options?
Organic dog food is made from ingredients that are grownwithout pesticides, artificial fertilizers, genetic modification, irradiation,or sewage sludge. Animal ingredients in organic dog food must come fromanimals raised on organic feed, given access to the outdoors, and not treatedwith antibiotics or hormones. The ingredients in organic dog food can onlyundergo certain types of processing.
2. Are there specific benefits for senior dogs?
As dogs age, their nutritional requirements change andevolve. Obesity, arthritis, and cognitive and appetite loss are common problemsfor seniors. Organic dog foods are often more nutrient-rich than other caninefoods, which can help preserve the nutritional content. This is becauseorganic ingredients tend to be fresher and free from artificial substances.
3. How to choose the best organic food for my senior pup?
The best starting place for any senior is to feed them thehighest-quality balanced diet possible. You should be aware of just a fewimportant factors that apply to most senior dogs. This will help you choose thebest dog food for your senior dog. Healthy seniors need more protein, notless, to fuel muscle. Older dogs need about 50 percent more proteinto maintain muscle mass compared to younger ones.
4. Is organic dog food suitable for dogs with allergies?
Yes, organic dog food can be suitable for dogs withallergies. The best dog foods for allergies are available in 2 recipe designs:Limited-ingredient diets and Hypoallergenic dog foods. Limited ingredientdiets contain fewer items, which can make it easier to pin down the specificingredient (known as an allergen) to which your pet may be allergic.
5. Can organic dog food improve my dogs coat and skinhealth?
Yes, certain ingredients in organic dog food can contributeto a healthy coat and skin. For example, chia seeds are rich in Omega-3essential fatty acids and promote a dogs skin and coat health while helpingfight off and clear up skin inflammation. Almonds contain all that makes up theentire vitamin E family, specifically tocopherols and tocotrienols, which arehuge helpers in promoting healthy skin and hair.
6. Addressing concerns about organic dog food pricing.
Organic Dog Food Pricing: Organic dog food tends to be moreexpensive than regular dog food. The average organic dog food is priced about23% higher than a comparable size package of regular dog food. However, thishighly specialized category of dog foods can sometimes be found selling for asmuch as 40% more than their conventional counterparts.
7. Are there any scientific studies supporting organic dogfood benefits?
Some studies have found some benefits to organicfoods, which could potentially extend to organic dog food. For instance,compared to conventional foods, organic foods have been found to have smallincreases in antioxidants, small increases in phosphorus, and higher amounts ofomega-3 fatty acids. However, the current scientific evidence supporting the nutritional benefits of natural pet food products is limited. Its importantto note that the healthiest dietary choices for dogs are nutritionally sounddiets.
8. Can I mix organic dog food with homemade meals?
Yes, you can mix organic dog food with homemade meals.Veterinarians recommend starting with about 25% new food and 75% old food, thengradually increasing the amount of new food until you reach 100%. However,its crucial to ensure that homemade meals are nutritionally balanced. Ahomemade dog diet should contain an appropriate balance of protein,carbohydrates, fiber, and fat. Its recommended to consult your veterinarianor a canine nutritionist before switching your dog to a homemade diet.
9. How does organic dog food contribute to joint health insenior dogs?
Organic dog food can contribute to joint health in seniordogs. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin arebeneficial for older dogs with joint problems. These nutrients support jointhealth and reduce inflammation. Optimal levels of vitamins and mineralspromote the efficient production of cartilage and nutritionally support boneand nerve function.
10. Understanding the organic certification process for dogfood.
The term "organic" is officially defined by AAFCOas meeting the production and handling requirements of the U.S. Department ofAgricultures (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP). Organic products areproduced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, andmechanical practices that foster the cycling of resources, promote ecologicalbalance, and conserve biodiversity. Synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge,irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used. Organic regulationsspecific to pet foods are currently being developed. In the interim, the NOPhas said that pet foods claiming to be organic must meet its human foodregulations. Certified organic foods will display a USDA organic seal and mustbe made of at least 95% organic ingredients.
11. Are there any breed-specific considerations for organicdog food?
While all breeds of dogs can theoretically benefit fromorganic foods, some will see more noticeable improvements than others. Forexample, breeds with sensitive stomachs or allergies may have fewer digestiveissues or skin problems when switching to an organic diet. Somebreed-specific diets might address specific health concerns. For instance,large breeds might be prone to joint issues, while smaller breeds might havedental concerns. Active breeds might require more calories, while sedentarybreeds might need fewer. However, it's important to note that all dogs havethe same basic nutritional requirements, and there are no major differencesbetween different breeds.
12. Tips for transitioning from conventional to organic dogfood.
Transitioning your dogs diet from conventional to organicshould be done gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upset1. Heres a recommendedtransition schedule:
- Days 1-2: Mix 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food.
- Days 3-4: Mix 50% new food with 50% old food.
- Days 5-6: Mix 75% new food with 25% old food.
- Day 7: Feed your dog 100% new food. If your dog shows signsof stomach upset, slow down the process and give them more time to adjust.
13. Exploring organic dog treats for senior canines.
There are many organic treats available that are suitablefor senior dogs. Some treats are softer, have fewer ingredients, or addresscertain health needs. You can also make homemade treats using ingredients likeunsweetened Greek yogurt, organic pumpkin puree, brewers yeast, and dog-safesalmon oil.
14. What role does organic dog food play in preventingobesity in older dogs?
Organic dog food can play a role in preventing obesity inolder dogs. As dogs age, their maintenance energy requirements (MER) decreasedue to decreases in lean body mass and activity level. Feeding your dog abalanced diet that matches their energy needs can help maintain a healthyweight7. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation causedby obesity.
15. Addressing potential side effects of transitioning toorganic dog food.
Transitioning to a new diet can cause temporarygastrointestinal upset in some dogs, including symptoms like diarrhea,vomiting, increased production of gas, and decreased appetite. If thesesymptoms persist, its best to consult with your veterinarian1. Always monitoryour dogs reaction to the new food and adjust the transition paceaccordingly.
Conclusion:
Organic dog food can indeed play a pivotal role in enhancingthe well-being of senior dogs. Its all about providing your furry friend witha balanced diet that meets their specific needs. Remember, transitioning toorganic food should be done gradually and under the guidance of a veterinarian
