Choosing the best organic dog foods is a hot topic for pet owners. With so many new foods on the market, it is hard to know which one to choose.
The best dog food will give your pet all of the nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life, without any toxins or ingredients that can be harmful to their health.
A dog is the same like most of your farm animals, without great nutrition, they’re not going to be able to produce, whether that’s laying eggs, fighting off intruders or producing great meat.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic certification is a rigorous process that farms and food companies must go through in order to be able to label their products as organic. The organic seal assures consumers that the product has been grown and processed using sustainable methods that meet or exceed federal guidelines.
In this article I will talk about what organic dog food is, what the effect on your dog is and whether it’s worth the extra money. Let’s get started!
What is Organic Dog Food?
Organic dog food is a type of pet food made from ingredients that have been organically grown without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or ionizing radiation.
In addition to being produced using organic farming practices, organic dog food can also contain other organic ingredients such as organic vegetables and minerals.
Because food from organic sources are produced without the use of synthetically made ingredients, all 100 percent organic dog food is free from artificial preservatives.
Organic dog foods can be grouped into 2 categories
- Certified organic
- Partially organic
Certified organic dog food must meet the USDA’s strict organic standards of at least 95% organic ingredients, while partially organic dog food contains some, but not all, organic ingredients. Only fully certified organic products (as per the USDA) are allowed to carry the USDA seal of approval.
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) recognizes 3 categories of organic products:
- 100% organic – these are products that are made with 100% organic ingredients.
- Organic – made with at least 95% organic ingredients. As per above, these are products that can carry the USDA seal of approval.
- Made with organic ingredients – products that are made with a minimum of 70% organic ingredients with strict restrictions on the remaining 30% (including no GMOs).
What organic dog foods is made of
Organic dog foods is primarily made of organic meat. Normally, one would find ingredients such as organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic tapioca starch, organic dried pea, organic chickpea turkey, chicken liver, turkey necks, whole sardines, turkey hearts, turkey livers, dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes, organic pea flour, organic flaxseed, and organic oats in organic dog food.
Sounds disgusting to us human, but it’s quite the delicacy for our furry friends!
Benefits of going Organic for your Dog
There are many benefits that come with feeding your pup organic dog food.
- Organic dog food is more nutritious than non-organic alternatives. Organic ingredients are grown in a way that preserves the nutritional value of the food. In contrast, conventionally grown crops are often sprayed with pesticides and other chemicals that can leach into the food and make it less nutritious.
- Organic dog food is safer than non-organic alternatives. Organic farming practices forbid the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. These chemicals can be harmful to both pets and people.
- It is better for the environment. Organic farming practices are environmentally friendly and help to protect the environment.
- Organic dog food is better for the welfare of animals.
Common health benefits of organic foods include higher nutritional value, increased dietary fiber, enhanced energy levels, and healthier skin and coats. Because there are no pesticides or chemicals used in the production of organic pet food, many people believe that it is safer for pets. GMOs (genetically modified organisms) as mentioned above, are found in many conventional dog foods, but not organic dog food.
How to Choose the Best Organic Dog Food for Your Furry Friend
Choosing the best organic dog food for your pet can be a bit overwhelming because there are so many options out there. You may ask yourself, what type of protein should I look for? What kind of carbohydrates and vitamins should I avoid?
When choosing an organic dog food, it is important to consider your pet’s individual needs. Some dogs have food allergies or sensitivities, so it is important to choose a food that does not contain any ingredients that your pet is allergic to.
It is also important to choose a food that contains all of the nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy. Such nutrients would include protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
| Brand | Type | Protein Source | USDA Certified | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castor & Pollux Organix Chicken & Pea | Dry kibble | Organic chicken | Yes (95%+) | Everyday feeding, active dogs |
| Newman’s Own Organics Adult | Dry kibble | Organic turkey | Yes | Sensitive stomachs |
| Tender & True Organic Turkey & Liver | Wet food | Turkey | Yes | Seniors, picky eaters |
| ZIWI Peak Air-Dried | Air-dried | Venison/lamb | No (NZ sourced, antibiotic-free) | High protein, raw-food transition |
| Sojos Complete Meal Organic Bites | Freeze-dried | Organic chicken | Yes | Farm dogs, active breeds |
Castor & Pollux Organix Chicken & Pea
Castor & Pollux Organix is one of the most recognisable names in the certified organic pet food space, and for good reason. The Chicken & Pea formula is made with organic free-range chicken as the first ingredient, meaning it meets the USDA’s strict 95%+ organic threshold and carries the full seal of approval. The kibble itself is grain-free, which suits dogs that are sensitive to wheat or corn.
Pros: Widely available in independent pet stores and online; genuinely USDA-certified at the highest tier; grain-free with a clean ingredient list; no artificial preservatives or colours. Cons: Price per pound is higher than conventional kibble; some dogs with chicken sensitivities may need an alternative protein source.
Best for active adult dogs that need consistent, high-quality everyday nutrition. If you run a farm with working dogs, this is a solid all-rounder that scales well when bought in larger bags.
Newman’s Own Organics Adult
Newman’s Own is well known for its human food lines, and the Organics adult dog formula brings that same ethos to pet nutrition. The primary protein is organic turkey, a leaner white meat that is generally easier on the digestive system than chicken or beef. It’s USDA-certified organic, and the brand donates all after-tax profits to charitable causes — a genuine plus for conscientious buyers.
Pros: Turkey-based protein is gentler on sensitive stomachs; certified organic; good value compared to some premium organic brands; ethical brand credentials. Cons: Slightly lower protein percentage than some performance-focused formulas; less widely stocked in farm or rural supply stores.
This is the pick for dogs that have shown signs of food intolerance or recurring digestive issues on chicken-based diets. It’s also a good option for owners who want to support a brand with a strong social mission alongside solid nutrition.
Tender & True Organic Turkey & Liver
Tender & True focuses on wet food, which is a meaningful distinction for older dogs or those that struggle with hard kibble. The Turkey & Liver formula is USDA-certified organic and uses humanely raised turkey with no antibiotics ever used — a claim backed by third-party certification. The high moisture content (around 78%) helps with hydration, which is especially important for senior dogs or breeds prone to urinary issues.
Pros: Excellent for seniors and picky eaters; high moisture aids hydration; genuine USDA certification; humanely raised protein sourcing. Cons: Wet food is more expensive per calorie than dry kibble; shorter shelf life once opened; not ideal as a sole food source for very large or highly active breeds without supplementation.
Tender & True is the right call for older dogs, dogs recovering from illness, or any dog that has started turning its nose up at dry food. It also works well as a topper mixed into kibble to boost palatability and add moisture to a dry diet.
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried
ZIWI Peak is a New Zealand brand that operates outside the USDA certification framework — but that doesn’t mean it cuts corners. All meat is sourced from New Zealand’s pasture-raised, free-range, and grass-fed animals with no antibiotics, no growth hormones, and strict country-of-origin traceability. The air-drying process removes moisture slowly at low temperatures, preserving nutritional integrity in a way that is closer to raw feeding than conventional kibble.
Pros: Extremely high protein and fat content (ideal for working or active dogs); no grains, fillers, or artificial anything; great for dogs transitioning off raw diets; long shelf life for an air-dried product. Cons: Not USDA-certified organic (sourced under New Zealand’s own standards); premium price point — among the most expensive per pound in this list; very rich, so portion control is important.
ZIWI Peak is the standout choice for high-energy farm dogs, working breeds, or any dog coming off a raw food regimen that needs a convenient but nutritionally dense alternative. The venison and lamb formulas are also excellent for dogs with common protein allergies.
Sojos Complete Meal Organic Bites
Sojos takes a different approach with its freeze-dried format: you rehydrate the bites with water before feeding, which results in a fresh, whole-food meal texture that many dogs prefer over dry kibble. The Organic Bites formula is USDA-certified organic with organic chicken as the lead protein, supported by organic fruits and vegetables. The freeze-drying process locks in nutrients without heat damage, making it nutritionally closer to fresh food than almost any kibble on the market.
Pros: Certified organic; freeze-dried process preserves maximum nutrition; whole food ingredients including real fruits and veg; dogs that refuse kibble tend to eat this enthusiastically. Cons: Requires preparation (adding water) which adds time; more expensive than kibble on a per-serving basis; the rehydrated texture is not suitable for dogs that prefer crunchy food.
Sojos is an especially good fit for farm dogs and active outdoor breeds that need dense, whole-food nutrition in a format that travels well and stores easily. The rehydration step becomes second nature quickly, and the quality of ingredients is difficult to match at this price tier.
Why You Should Feed Your Pet an Organic Diet, and what you should avoid feeding them
There are many reasons why you should feed your pet an organic diet. The most important reason is that organic diets are healthier for your pet than non-organic diets.
Organic ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, so they are not exposed to any harmful chemicals. This means that they are less likely to develop food allergies or sensitivities.
Organic diets are also better for the environment. Organic farming practices help to protect the environment by using fewer natural resources and creating less waste.
While it’s great that you are interested in providing your dog with USDA certified organic dog food, there are a lot of things you should also avoid feeding your dog.
The first and most important is artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These additives are often found in processed foods and can be harmful to your pet’s health.
You should also avoid feeding your dog foods that contain grains, as many dogs are allergic or sensitive to them. Processed foods, including canned food and kibble, are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt. These foods can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems in dogs.
The best way to ensure that your pet is getting the healthiest diet possible is to provide them with a balanced organic diet. This means feeding them a mix of organic dry and wet food, as well as giving them occasional table scraps that are organic.
Organic Dog Foods, Organic Dog Treats And Why They Are Good For Your Pet
Many dog owners want to give their furry friends treats that are wholesome and healthy. With all of the recent research about unhealthy ingredients in many commercial foods, it’s not surprising that many pet parents are looking for organic options.
The good news is that there are many organic dog foods, treats, and snacks on the market today. Some of those dog treats include:
- Castor & Pollux Organix Organic Chicken Cookies
- Wet Noses All-Natural Peanut Butter Banana Treats
- 4Legz Organic All-Natural Crunchy Dog Treats
- Trader Joe’s Organic Chicken and Brown Rice Sticks
- Full Moon Natural Organics Chicken Jerky
- Green Butterfly Brands Organic Beef Sticks
How much more does organic dog food cost?
A recent study found that organic dog food is priced between 23% to 40% higher than regular dog food. This study compared “like for like”, meaning the size of the package and weight was equal in the study. It’s crazy!
Up to 40% more to have your puppy eat dog foods containing organic chicken liver, organic chicken fat, organic sweet potatoes! I wonder what the dogs of movie stars eat? Probably organic raw food, talk about “premium dog food” segment.
There’s quite a rational reason why organic foods is more expensive, normally it is because organic farming is more costly than regular farming.
How to get your dog accustomed to organic dog food
If your dog is used to natural dog food, freeze dried dog food, dry food or any other type of food which is not organic, you can follow these steps to change your pet’s food!
Where to buy the best organic dog food
There are more options than ever for buying quality organic dog food, and the right channel depends on your priorities — convenience, price, or access to specialist advice. Independent pet supply stores are worth seeking out first. Staff at dedicated pet shops tend to have hands-on knowledge of the brands they stock and can walk you through ingredient differences, portion guidance, and how to transition your dog between formulas. Many independent stores also carry locally sourced or small-batch organic brands that never make it onto the shelves of larger chains.
Big-box retailers like PetSmart and Petco have expanded their organic and natural pet food sections significantly in recent years. Both chains now maintain dedicated shelving for USDA-certified organic options including Castor & Pollux Organix and comparable brands, often at competitive prices. They are a practical option when you need to pick up food alongside other supplies in a single trip.
Online is where the best value tends to live. Chewy’s Autoship subscription programme typically saves 30–35% off the standard price, and the convenience of scheduled home delivery is hard to beat — particularly for rural or farm locations. Amazon Subscribe & Save works similarly and is useful if you already consolidate household purchasing there. Buying direct from brand websites (Castor & Pollux, Sojos, and ZIWI Peak all have direct stores) often unlocks bundle deals and loyalty discounts not available elsewhere.
One practical note on bag size: buying in bulk lowers cost per pound, but organic dog food contains fewer artificial preservatives than conventional food, which means it can go stale faster once opened. For most dogs, a 14–25 lb bag is the sweet spot — large enough to save money but small enough to use within 4–6 weeks of opening. Store in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight, and freeze any portion you won’t use within that window.
Conclusions
Organic dog food is a great way to ensure your pet’s health and well-being. By feeding them an organic diet, you are giving them the best possible option that won’t expose their bodies to any harmful chemicals or additives. For the brave ones, you can also go over to an insect based food diet for your furry friend!
The benefits of organic diets can be seen in both physical conditions like allergies and sensitivities but also behavioral changes such as weight gain or loss, diabetes, etc.
These all stem from what goes into our pets’ mouths on a day-to-day basis so it’s important for us to feed them foods which will help preserve their quality of life while supporting healthy lifestyle choices!
FAQ on Organic Dog Foods
Organic dog food is made with ingredients that are certified organic. This means that the ingredients were grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or other chemicals. The food may also be free from antibiotics and hormones.
While there is no conclusive evidence that organic dog food is better for pets than non-organic food. However, some people believe that organic food is healthier because it does not contain any harmful chemicals.
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) recognizes 3 categories of organic products:
– 100% organic – these are products that are made with 100% organic ingredients.
– Organic – made with at least 95% organic ingredients. As per above, these are products that can carry the USDA seal ofapproval.
– Made with organic ingredients – products that are made with a minimum of 70% organic ingredients with strict restrictions on the remaining 30% (including no GMOs).
There is no evidence that organic food is better for dogs than conventional food. However, some people believe that organic food is healthier because it does not contain any harmful chemicals.
Some benefits of feeding your dog organic food may include:
– improved skin and coat health
– reduced risk of allergies
– increased energy levels
– improved digestion and nutrient absorption
– reduced risk of cancer
