Selecting the perfect dog food can pose a challenge. With many brands flooding the market and amidst the swirl of dietary trends and commercial hype, discerning the optimal choice becomes elusive. Nonetheless, there’s a unanimous consensus: dogs thrive on premium, natural fare.
The pivotal factor in ensuring your dog’s happiness and well-being is furnishing them with top-notch nutrition. This translates to seeking a natural dog food formula for numerous dog enthusiasts.
While ‘high-quality’ often connotes natural and organic dog food, it can also signify a hefty price tag. Fear not! Contrary to popular belief, nourishing your furry companion with premium, natural, organic dog food is feasible without breaking the bank.
What is the Difference Between Natural & Organic Dog Food?
Deciphering the labels “natural” and “organic” on dog food is crucial.
- Before exploring budget-friendly natural dog food brands, let’s define “natural.” The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) describes it as deriving solely from plant, animal, or mined sources, without synthetic processes or additives.
- In contrast, “organic” requires industry certification. AAFCO states that for animal foods to be labeled “organic,” they must meet strict USDA standards. This includes pesticide-free plant ingredients and animals raised on organic feed without antibiotics or hormones.
Due to certification complexity and ingredient costs, organic dog foods typically have a higher price tag. However, some affordable options are available.
Best Natural Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog prioritizes personalized nutrition, tailoring each meal plan to the individual needs of the dog based on factors like age, weight, and activity level.
Pros
Developed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Features human-grade ingredients.
Ensures 100% completeness and balance for puppies, adults, and seniors.
Cons
Premium-priced option.
Limited variety of recipes compared to other brands.
Among the four natural recipes examined in our assessment of The Farmer’s Dog product line, The Farmer’s Dog Beef stands out.
- Main ingredients: USDA Beef, sweet potato, lentils, carrot, USDA beef liver
- Type: Grain-free (incorporating sweet potatoes, lentils, and carrots)
- Design For: Suitable for All Life Stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and puppies, including large breeds
- Alternate recipes: Turkey, chicken, and pork
This particular recipe primarily sources its animal protein from USDA beef. A dry matter label analysis indicates protein content at 39%, fat at 29%, and estimated carbs at 24%, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 73%.
The product line features human-grade ingredients developed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Each formula from The Farmer’s Dog is meticulously crafted to ensure 100% completeness and balance, catering to puppies, adults, and seniors alike. Although a premium-priced option, it offers a healthy feeding solution for discerning pet owners. It is highly recommended.
A satisfied customer attests, “I love this company. They truly care about their customers and have a great product. My dog has lost weight and is more energetic.”
Ollie Dog Food
Ollie Dog Food
This Ollie recipe features fresh lamb as its primary protein source. It offers a balanced nutrition profile with 37% protein, 30% fat, and 25% estimated carbs, boasting an 82% fat-to-protein ratio.
Pros
High-quality ingredients, including fresh lamb and nutrient-rich vegetables
Grain-inclusive formula
Veterinarian-designed to ensure optimal nutrition and suitability for dogs of all breeds and sizes
Cons
Limited flavor variety
Slightly higher fat content may not be suitable for all dogs
Our Ollie product line review highlights the Lamb Dish with Cranberries among the 5 natural recipes explored.
- Main ingredients: Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, kale, rice
- Type: Grain-inclusive (rice)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Other recipes include turkey, chicken, and beef
This specific Ollie formula primarily sources its animal protein from fresh lamb. Upon dry matter label analysis, it boasts 37% protein, 30% fat, and an estimated 25% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 82%.
Crafted by veterinarians, this meal is tailored to address your dog’s age, weight, breed, activity level, and allergies, utilizing solely human-grade ingredients.
An impeccably balanced formula, freshly prepared and backed with utmost confidence.
One satisfied customer shares, “Leia, who has a sensitive tummy and previously struggled with dry kibble, now eagerly anticipates Mealtime when Ollie is on the menu. The transformation in our dog’s life thanks to Ollie has been remarkable.”
Raised Right Fresh Dog Food
Raised Right Fresh Dog Food
Raised Right’s Adult Pork recipe boasts a high protein content of 57%, derived mainly from fresh pork. With a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%, this grain-free formulation is rich in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for adult dogs.
Pros
Rich in high-quality ingredients
Grain-free formulation
Designed for adult dogs, offering a balanced maintenance profile
A high protein content of 57% promotes muscle health and vitality
Cons
Limited availability
Higher price point
Highlighted in our Raised Right product line review is the Raised Right Adult Pork, among the 11 fresh recipes scrutinized.
- Main ingredients: Pork, pork heart, pork liver, carrots, blueberries
- Types: Grain-free (carrots, blueberries)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Ideal for Adult dogs
- Variety: Additional recipes include turkey, beef, chicken, and more
This specific Raised Right formula predominantly sources its meat protein from fresh pork. Upon dry matter label analysis, it boasts 57% protein, 23% fat, and an estimated 12% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 40%.
Each limited ingredient diet is meticulously crafted from a single source of animal protein, simplifying the identification of potential food sensitivities. Furthermore, the entire product line undergoes rigorous safety testing for disease-causing bacteria before shipment.
For transparency and peace of mind, the company provides comprehensive test results for each batch, ensuring clients can easily verify before purchase.
Considered one of the premier fresh, high-protein dog foods available, Raised Right comes highly recommended.
One satisfied customer shares, “After using gently cooked dog foods for some time, I stumbled upon Raised Right and was amazed by its significantly higher protein content compared to other options. Upon switching, I immediately noticed the absence of fillers. There’s no turning back for me.”
Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food
Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food
This Nom Nom recipe is rich in protein sourced primarily from ground turkey and includes zinc gluconate and three other chelated minerals, enhancing its nutritional value.
Pros
Rich in essential nutrients
It contains zinc gluconate and three other chelated minerals for optimal health.
Crafted from high-quality, human-grade ingredients
Customized for all life stages, suitable for adult dogs and puppies alike
Cons
Limited flavor variety
Higher price point
Highlighted in our Nom Nom Fresh product line review is the Nom Nom Turkey Fare, among the 4 natural recipes examined.
- Main ingredients: Ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach
- Types: Grain-inclusive (brown rice)
- Design For: All Life Stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Additional recipes include beef, chicken, and pork
This particular Nom Nom recipe primarily derives its animal protein from ground turkey. According to dry matter label analysis, it boasts 36% protein, 18% fat, and an estimated 38% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 50%.
Notably, the inclusion of zinc gluconate and three other chelated minerals sets this recipe apart, representing premium components typically found in higher-quality pet foods.
Nom Nom offers an affordable yet premium fresh-made option, earning our highest recommendation.
For a broader selection, visit our Best Fresh Dog Foods page.
One delighted customer shares, “Mealtime is now a joy for Tula. With Nom Nom, her skin issues have vanished, her coat is radiant, and her stools have never been better. I couldn’t envision feeding her anything other than Nom Nom!”
A Pup Above Dog Food
A Pup Above Dog Food
This recipe primarily uses fresh turkey for protein.
Dry matter analysis: 43% protein, 22% fat, 27% estimated carbs, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
Crafted by experienced veterinary nutritionists.
Fully balanced for adult maintenance per AAFCO standards. It is highly recommended.
Pros
Grain-free recipe with fresh ingredients
Suitable for adult dogs
High protein content from fresh turkey
Cons
Limited flavor diversity
Higher price point
Highlighted in our A Pup Above product line review is the Turkey Pawella, among the 4 fresh recipes featured.
- Main ingredients: Turkey, turkey liver, tomatoes, carrots, green peas
- Types: Grain-free (tomatoes, carrots, green peas)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Ideal for: Adult dogs
- Variety: Additional recipes include beef, pork, and chicken
This specific recipe predominantly sources its animal protein from fresh turkey. Upon dry matter label analysis, it boasts 43% protein, 22% fat, and an estimated 27% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 51%.
A meticulously balanced, fresh food formula meets 100% of AAFCO nutrient profile requirements for adult maintenance. They are crafted by a team of board-certified veterinary nutritionists, each with over a decade of clinical experience in veterinary medicine.
A top-notch natural dog food choice wholeheartedly recommended.
One satisfied customer shares, “Mealtime has become a delightful affair with A Pup Above! Grizzly, who can sometimes be finicky, eagerly devours his food when I incorporate this into his meals. Thanks for simplifying and enriching our mealtime experience!”
Spot and Tango Unkibble
Spot and Tango Unkibble
Spot and Tango Unkibble primarily sources its animal protein from fresh chicken, with a protein content of 26%, fat content of 17%, and estimated carbs at 49%, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
Pros
Chicken is the main ingredient, offering high-quality protein.
Includes brown rice for added nutrition.
Suitable for all life stages.
Cons
Limited flavor variety
Higher price point
Featured in our Spot and Tango product line review is the Unkibble Chicken and Brown Rice, among the 3 dry recipes examined.
- Main ingredients: Chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples
- Types: Grain-inclusive (brown rice)
- Design For: All Life-Stages
- Ideal For: Adult dogs and puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Additional recipes include beef and cod
Spot and Tango Unkibble primarily sources its animal protein from fresh chicken. According to dry matter label analysis, it contains 26% protein, 17% fat, and an estimated 49% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 64%.
Offering the quality of fresh ingredients in a convenient dry form, this product comes highly recommended.
One satisfied customer shares, “I often worry about Hoagie’s nutrition with regular dry kibble. Spot and Tango Unkibble provides a good alternative without the hassle of raw food, which can be expensive and concerning in terms of freshness.”
Purina Beyond Natural Dog Food
Purina Beyond Natural Dog Food
Purina Beyond Natural Pate recipes mainly use fresh beef for protein, with a 36% protein content, 27% fat, and 28% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of around 75%.
Pros
Natural Texas beef is the main ingredient.
Grain-free
Suitable for adult dogs.
Budget-friendly.
Cons
Limited flavor variety
Texture may not suit all preferences
The Beef, Potato, and Green Bean recipes are highlighted in our Purina Beyond product line review among the 10 wet formulas analyzed.
- Main ingredients: Beef, beef broth, chicken, liver, potatoes, green beans
- Types: Grain-free pate (potatoes, green beans)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Ideal For: Adult dogs
- Variety: Additional recipes include beef, chicken, turkey, and various others
Purina Beyond Natural Pate recipes predominantly derive their meat protein from fresh beef. Analyzing the dry matter label, it boasts 36% protein, 27% fat, and an estimated 28% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 75%.
Crafted with natural Texas beef, this high-protein wet dog food contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Its pate consistency makes it a perfect topper, infusing authentic flavor and vitality into any processed dry kibble.
Affordably priced, this option is a reliable “natural” choice, quickly earning our recommendation.
One satisfied customer shares, “My two dogs adore this canned food for its ground texture, unlike the chunky consistency of most canned dog foods. It blends wonderfully with dry food or when mixed with medications.”
Diamond Naturals Dog Food
Diamond Naturals Dog Food
Diamond Naturals Chicken and Rice derives most of its protein from fresh chicken, with a 29% protein content, 18% fat, and 45% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
Pros
Fresh chicken is the primary protein source.
Includes wholesome grains like brown rice and barley.
Budget-friendly choice.
Cons
Limited flavor variety
It may not suit dogs with specific dietary restrictions or preferences
Highlighted in our Diamond Naturals product line review is the Chicken and Rice, among the 13 dry recipes scrutinized.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, white rice
- Types: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley, white rice)
- Design For: All Life Stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Additional recipes include beef, lamb, chicken, and various others
Diamond Naturals Chicken and Rice primarily sources its meat protein from fresh chicken. According to dry matter label analysis, it contains 29% protein, 18% fat, and an estimated 45% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
This fully balanced, grain-free formula is a perennial favorite among budget-conscious dog parents, earning its place on our Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food list. It stands as a top choice for those seeking exceptional value.
One satisfied customer shares, “My dogs thrive on Diamond Naturals Dog Food. Their coats are glossy, and their stools are perfect. I trust Diamond Naturals for their well-being.”
Orijen Dog Food
Orijen Dog Food
Orijen Original derives its protein mainly from fresh chicken and turkey, with a 43% protein content, 20% fat, and 28% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Pros
Premium animal ingredients.
Grain-free formula.
High protein content (43%).
Complete and balanced.
Cons
Limited flavor variety
It may not suit dogs with specific dietary restrictions or preferences
Highlighted in our Orijen product line review is the Orijen Original, among the 9 dry recipes assessed.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, chicken liver
- Types: Grain-free
- Design For: All Life Stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and puppies (including large breeds)
Orijen Original derives its primary animal protein from fresh chicken and turkey. According to dry matter label analysis, it contains 43% protein, 20% fat, and an estimated 28% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Formulated with 85% premium animal ingredients, including poultry and fish, it provides a comprehensive and balanced blend of essential protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Enhanced with a freeze-dried coating to deliver a burst of raw flavor, Orijen remains a perennial favorite among pet owners. It comes highly recommended.
One satisfied customer shares, “This food offers excellent quality for your furry companions, crafted with real meat and protein as the top priority.”
Honest Kitchen Human-Grade Natural Dog Food
Honest Kitchen Human-Grade Natural Dog Food
Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken derives its protein mainly from dehydrated chicken, with a 27% protein content, 15% fat, and 50% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
Pros
Real human-grade ingredients.
Grain-inclusive formula with barley and oats.
Suitable for all life stages.
Convenient rehydration process.
Cons
Limited flavor variety
It may not suit dogs with specific dietary restrictions or preferences
Highlighted in our Honest Kitchen product line review is the Whole Grain Chicken, among the 8 dehydrated recipes assessed.
- Main Ingredients: Dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes, organic flaxseed, organic oats
- Types: Grain-inclusive (barley, oats)
- Design For: All Life Stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Additional recipes include turkey, beef, fish, and more
Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken derives a significant portion of its animal protein from dehydrated chicken. According to dry matter label analysis, it contains 27% protein, 15% fat, and an estimated 50% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
Crafted with natural human-grade ingredients, this formula provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs and puppies of all breed sizes.
Add warm water, and the product rehydrates four times its packaged weight, making it an ideal topper for dry kibbles. A 10-pound box yields 40 pounds of fresh dog food, making it a cost-effective choice. It comes highly recommended.
One satisfied customer shares, “My dog adores this product. The sight of the box excites her. It offers great nutritional value, and my dog can’t get enough of it.”
Canidae Pure Natural Dog Food
Canidae Pure Natural Dog Food
Canidae Salmon and Sweet Potato derives its protein mainly from fresh salmon, with a 36% protein content, 16% fat, and 41% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Pros
Limited ingredient design.
Grain-free formula.
Complete and balanced nutrition.
High protein content from fresh salmon.
Satisfied customers highly recommend it.
Cons
Limited flavor variety
It may not suit dogs with specific dietary restrictions or preferences
Our Canidae product line review highlights the Salmon and Sweet Potato among the 10 dry recipes assessed.
- Main Ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, lentils, sweet potatoes
- Types: Grain-free (garbanzo beans, peas)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Ideal for: Adult dogs
- Variety: Additional recipes include duck, salmon, wild boar, lamb, bison, and more
Canidae’s Salmon and Sweet Potato recipe primarily derives its animal protein from fresh salmon. According to dry matter label analysis, it contains 36% protein, 16% fat, and an estimated 41% carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Crafted with a limited ingredient design, incorporating only 8 “real” ingredients, this formula offers complete and balanced nutrition without soy, wheat, corn, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
A standout natural dog food selection, highly recommended.
One satisfied customer shares, “My dogs are notoriously picky eaters—a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd—but both adore this food! It’s rare for them to agree on anything, so I highly recommend it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I transition my dog to natural food without causing illness?
Transition gradually by mixing 20% “new” food with 80% “old” food initially. Then, over the next 8 to 9 days, slowly increase the proportion of new food until it reaches 100%.
| Schedule | Old Food | New Food |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 and 2 | 80% | 20% |
| Days 3 and 4 | 60% | 40% |
| Days 5 and 6 | 40% | 60% |
| Days 7 and 8 | 20% | 80% |
| Day 9 | 0% | 100% |
Why do certain natural dog foods have no preservatives?
Remember, canned foods don’t require preservatives; most fresh cooked or raw dog foods are refrigerated. Consequently, many of these natural recipes inherently lack preservatives.
What are the key characteristics of the best natural dog foods?
While the FDA mandates that natural foods be free of artificial ingredients, this definition needs more depth. To identify the best natural dog food, additional criteria are essential:
- Absence of artificial ingredients
- Avoidance of controversial preservatives
- Natural moisture content exceeding 70%
- Minimal processing at lower temperatures
- Resemblance to real food rather than dry pellets
It’s worth noting that dry dog foods only fulfill some of these criteria.
Is natural dog food always grain-free?
Not necessarily. ‘Natural’ indicates ingredients sourced from minimally processed plant, animal, or mined sources, excluding chemicals.
Some natural dog foods are grain-free, while others incorporate grains. However, neither type qualifies as natural if it contains artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Explore The Doggo Bio’s Best Grain-Free Dog Food for our top recommendations.
Are natural dog foods also deemed organic?
Some natural recipes may also hold an organic certification. However, it’s crucial to note that organic dog foods are subject to stringent regulation. Products certified as organic must adhere to rigorous standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Given their higher standards and associated costs, the finest organic dog foods may be less readily available in stores.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the significance of natural dog food cannot be overstated. As responsible pet owners, we must ensure that our furry companions receive nutrition that matches their natural dietary requirements.
Natural dog food, devoid of artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives, offers many benefits, including improved digestion, bolstered immune function, and overall better health and vitality for our cherished canine friends. By prioritizing natural ingredients and wholesome nutrition, we enhance our pets’ well-being and nurture a more robust bond founded on trust, care, and respect.
Let’s persist in prioritizing the quality and integrity of our pets’ diets, providing them with the nourishment they deserve for a happy, healthy life by their side.
However, it’s important to note that the information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional guidance. We strongly advise consulting with a veterinarian or pet nutrition specialist for any inquiries regarding your dog’s dietary or health needs.