Dogs are family. And as pet parents, the least we can do is make sure our fluffy ones are happy, healthy, and living their best lives. That’s where organic dog food enters the scene. Packed with all the good stuff and free from nasty fillers, antibiotics, and preservatives, organic dog food makes it a favorite for those who prioritize their dog’s well-being.
And when it comes to choosing what’s the best types of dog food for your furry friend, you’ve got options! Whether you’re leaning toward organic dry, wet, or raw dog food, there’s something for every pup’s taste and dietary needs.
Why Choose Organic Food?
Switching to organic food can be a blessing for your dog’s health, especially if it struggles with issues like allergies or skin conditions. Organic dog food often has higher-quality, cleaner ingredients—without synthetic pesticides, artificial additives, or unnecessary fillers.
Besides the health perks, choosing organic also means you’re supporting environmentally friendly practices. By going organic, you’re not only helping your furry friend live healthier but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable planet.
1. Improved Digestion and a Healthier Gut
Organic dog food typically comes with high-quality ingredients that are easier on your pup’s digestive system. Without artificial preservatives, additives, or heavily processed fillers, it helps your dog absorb nutrients more easily. This means fewer digestive issues, better gut health, and often smaller, more consistent stools. For dogs prone to tummy troubles, switching to organic can be a huge relief.
2. Fewer Allergies and Reduced Sensitivity
With fewer artificial ingredients and chemicals, organic dog food cuts down on exposure to common dog food allergies. On top of that, it uses simple, whole ingredients and often single protein sources—less risk of an allergic reaction. Over time, this cleaner diet can help your dog’s system become less reactive to minor irritants. Plus, by getting rid of inflammation and reactions from artificial ingredients, your pet can enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
3. Vitality and a Healthy Glow
One of the first things you’ll notice when switching to organic food is that your dog seems more energetic and looks better, too. The high-quality ingredients give your pup a boost in nutrients without any fillers. This nutrient-rich diet is also good for its skin and coat—think of it as “beauty from within.” Vitamins, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants in organic ingredients make way for a shinier, softer coat and healthier skin, so your pup’s inner health shows on the outside as well.
4. Supporting a Sustainable Future
Choosing organic food for your dog isn’t just good for them—it’s good for the planet, too. Organic farming avoids the use of harmful chemicals and follows sustainable practices to protect the soil and save on water—unlike the mess that commercial farming leaves behind. By going organic, you'd be supporting eco-friendly farming that’s kinder to the environment and promoting a more sustainable future for all. It’s a choice that benefits your pup while contributing to a healthier planet.
How to Transition Your Dog to Organic Dog Food
Switching your pup to organic dog food can be super rewarding, but there are ways to make the change smooth and stress-free. First things first: choosing the best organic dog food for your dog’s needs is key. There are plenty of options out there, whether you’re looking at dry, wet, or raw organic food. Factor in your dog’s age, size, and any health needs it might have, and you’ll be off to a great start. Once you’ve got the right food, it’s time to make the transition.
Most dogs respond best to a gradual transition, usually spread out over 7 to 10 days. As with any dietary shift, changing dog food right away can lead to digestive problems, especially in puppies with delicate stomachs. This is why it’s always best to take baby steps. Start by mixing a small quantity of the organic food with the current food.
For example, you can fill the bowl with around a quarter of the new organic food and three-quarters of the old food on the first day. Stick with that blend for a couple of days so Fido’s system starts adjusting. As the days go by, gradually add more of the organic food and less of the old food. By midweek, you can aim for a 50-50 mix of both foods and then turn the ratio around, working up to a full switch by day ten.
This way, your pup’s digestive system has time to adapt to the new ingredients. If your dog has a particularly sensitive stomach, you may want to stretch the transition period a little longer, maybe two weeks, to make it even easier on them.
During this transition period, keep a close eye on how your dog is doing. Watch for any changes in its appetite or energy levels; these can sometimes show how well they’re adjusting to the new food. If Fido seems to show less interest in eating, a bit of bloating, or even a change in their energy, it probably needs a little extra time to get used to the new food. In that case, mix in a bit more of their old food for a few more days. It’s all about finding the right balance so that your fluffy friend feels comfortable with the transition.
One more thing to look out for during the switch is your dog’s poop. It’s normal to see a slight change in the stool as the little rascal adjusts to the new food. But if you notice any persistent issues, like loose stools or signs of discomfort, it’s best to reach out to your vet. They can help you adjust the feeding process or maybe recommend trying another organic food brand.
Switching to organic food is all about giving your dog the best possible nutrition, so it’s worth taking the time to transition smoothly. In the end, your pup will be fully enjoying its new organic diet.
Breakdown of Organic Dog Food Options
When it comes to going organic, it’s all about what works best for your pup. You have organic dry dog food, which is convenient and has a longer shelf life—a daily go-to. For a bit more moisture and flavor, organic wet dog food can be a hit, especially with picky eaters. And if you want to go all-natural, organic raw dog food is nutrient-packed and closest to what dogs may eat in the wild.
Here are the types of organic dog food along with top picks for each.
* Please note that we have no affiliation with any of the brands listed in this section. The recommendations are purely based on our research.
Organic Dry Dog Food
What’s best about dry food, or kibble, is that it lasts long and is easy to store—and has all the perks you’d expect from organic food. Plus, it’s free from any antibiotics and hormones. This way, you know your pup is getting a clean, wholesome meal. Organic dry dog food is packed with all the protein Fido needs to stay strong and energetic. And since it’s made with non-GMO ingredients that are easy to digest, organic kibble helps keep that tummy healthy.
Top Picks for Organic Dry Dog Food
1. Goodbowl™ Grass-Fed Beef & Brown Rice Recipe
- Ingredients: Humanely raised beef, ocean menhaden fish meal, barley, peas
- Protein level: 25%
- Price: starts at $3.18 per lb
Goodbowl is the way to go if you want real, quality ingredients. Also available in salmon and chicken, this kibble’s got grass-fed beef as the first ingredient—no antibiotics or added hormones—plus brown rice to keep it gentle on your dog’s tummy. It’s oven-baked, which keeps the flavor and nutrients locked in, and it’s packed with 25% protein, DHA, and essential nutrients for well-rounded nutrition. It has no weird fillers, so your pup gets only the good stuff.
2. Tender & True’s Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe
- Ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic dried peas, organic chickpeas, organic flaxseed meal
- Protein level: 26%
- Price: starts at $26.99 for 4 lbs
This one puts organic chicken at the top of the ingredient list, a good foundation for a healthy meal, and it skips the usual fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. It’s USDA-certified organic, meaning it meets high standards, and the chicken itself is G.A.P. certified as humanely raised and harvested. It’s clean and simple, with zero artificial stuff—no colors, flavors, or preservatives. Plus, it’s all made right here in the USA.
3. Gather Free Acres Organic Free-Run Chicken
- Ingredients: Organic free-run chicken, organic dehydrated chicken, organic peas, lentils, krill meal, organic flaxseed, blueberries, cranberries
- Protein level: 30%
- Price: starts at $6.11 per lb
Gather’s organic recipe is a great mix of quality ingredients in one pup’s bowl. The main protein is free-run, organic chicken, making it a solid pick if your dog does well on single-protein diets. It’s also packed with non-GMO ingredients like organic peas, lentils, blueberries, and cranberries, adding a nice balance of nutrients and antioxidants. Sustainably sourced krill brings in EPA and DHA to support heart health and a shiny coat. Plus, it’s totally clean, with no antibiotics, growth hormones, or artificial additives.
Organic Wet Dog Food
One way to get your doggo wagging its tail is with organic wet dog food. The gravy or jelly in the food gives Fido a nice hydration boost. And let’s be real—the rich aroma and flavor are a huge win. For picky eaters, wet food is often more tempting, and that extra flavor can turn even the most reluctant eaters into full-on foodies. Senior dogs love it too, not just because it’s tasty but also because the softer texture is easy on their teeth and needs less chewing—perfect if they’re dealing with dental issues. It’s a win-win in a can.
Top Picks for Organic Wet Dog Food
1. The Honest Kitchen Simmered Salmon and Chicken One Pot Stew
- Ingredients: Wild-caught salmon, cage-free chicken, brown rice, broccoli, coconut
- Protein level: 10%
- Price: $25.74 for a pack of six
This is a mega choice if you want to go the extra mile with human-grade ingredients. Prepared in collaboration with a chef, this hearty meal combines wild-caught salmon, cage-free chicken, brown rice, and broccoli with a touch of coconut for added flavor and nutrition. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients—no fillers or GMOs—and is vet-recommended, making it well worth the splurge. You can serve it as a complete meal or a nutritious topper to boost your dog’s kibble. One Pot Stew also comes in other recipes including Turkey and Lamb with Beef. A variety pack is available, too.
2. Open Farm's Chicken & Salmon Pâté
- Ingredients: Humanely raised chicken, chicken broth, potatoes, chicken liver
- Protein level: 7.5%
- Price: starting $0.32 per ounce
Another great choice for wet dog food is Open Farm's Chicken & Salmon Pâté. It’s made with humanely raised chicken and rich chicken liver, along with responsibly sourced fish, certified by Ocean Wise®. Non-GMO veggies like sweet potatoes and spinach give it an extra boost of nutrients. With a smooth 7.5% protein blend, it’s perfect on its own or as a tasty topper to keep your pup's meals exciting. Other recipes from this brand include turkey, surf and turf, chicken and beef, and even a plant-based option.
3. Turkey Pawella by a Pup Above
- Ingredients: Turkey, turkey hearts, turkey livers, bone broth, tomatoes, carrots, green peas, rice, turmeric, thyme, parsley, APA nutrient mix
- Protein level: 13.8%
- Price: starting at $1.36 per meal
If you’re looking for something with an extra kick, give Turkey Pawella a try. It’s packed with super ingredients like turkey heart, liver, and bone broth—all solid protein sources that support gut and joint health. Plus, it’s loaded with veggies like tomatoes, carrots, and peas, along with rice for fiber and easy digestion. It also has turmeric and herbs for a natural boost to coat health, fresher breath, and immunity. A chicken recipe is available, too.
Organic Raw Dog Food
Sometimes, you want to give your canine companions a taste of the wild from the comfort of your home. That’s why there’s organic raw dog food. A raw diet can help keep your pup’s weight in check while bringing some great health perks. Dogs on this diet usually have more energy, healthier skin, and cleaner teeth—you may even notice their coat getting shinier over time. With fresh, unprocessed ingredients like raw meat, bones, and veggies, it’s about as close to nature as it gets. That being said, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet to see if it's the right fit for your dog.
Top Picks for Organic Raw Dog Food
1. Viva Chicken for Dogs
- Ingredients: 90% humanely raised chicken with no antibiotics or hormones, 8% organic fruits and veggies, 2% natural supplements
- Protein level: 14.4%
- Price: $12 for a pack of two
Viva’s Chicken for Dogs is a game-changer if you’re looking for clean, nutrient-rich raw food. It’s packed with quality ingredients including chicken heart, liver, broccoli, cranberries, and cod liver oil. This AAFCO-approved formula has a boost of probiotics specifically added for food safety. While it’s a bit on the pricey side, it makes a great topper for kibble, adding balanced nutrition and a boost of flavor to your dog’s meal. You can buy it chunked or ground—whichever Fido prefers. Viva’s raw dog food is also available in beef, turkey, duck, and rabbit, plus beef and turkey for puppies.
2. Dr. Marty Pets’ Nature's Blend Essential Wellness
- Ingredients: Turkey, beef, salmon, duck, beef liver, turkey liver, turkey heart, flaxseed, sweet potato.
- Protein level: 37%
- Price: $30.95 per bag
An easy raw food option for dogs is Dr. Marty’s Nature's Blend Essential Wellness. This high-protein, freeze-dried food starts with real meat—turkey, beef, salmon, and duck—so you’re getting quality cuts without fillers or weird additives. And with 37% protein, it’s great for keeping up your pup’s energy, digestion, and overall health. The Prep couldn’t be simpler: just grab the right amount of nuggets for your dog’s size, add water, and it’s good to go in three minutes—no fridge, freezer, or mess involved.
3. Instinct Raw Boost Puppy Grain-Free With Real Chicken
- Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey Meal, Peas, Menhaden Fish Meal, Chickpeas, Freeze Dried Chicken, Salmon Oil.
- Protein level: 36%
- Price: starts at $5.4 per lb
With this recipe, you get high-protein kibble mixed with freeze-dried raw bits, giving your pup added nutrition and taste in every meal. Cage-free chicken tops the ingredient list, offering plenty of protein for growth and play, with DHA for brain and eye health. This grain-free option is loaded with probiotics, higher omegas, and extra antioxidants to support immune, gut, and skin health. And, of course, it skips grains, corn, and artificial additives—just quality ingredients to help your pup thrive.
Tips for Selecting the Best Organic Dog Food for Your Furry Friend
Picking the right organic dog food can feel a little overwhelming with all the options out there. Here are some tips to help you zero in on what’s best for your pup:
1. Consider Your Dog’s Age, Size, and Health Needs
Dogs have unique needs based on their age, size, and health conditions. Puppies, for example, have different energy and nutrient needs compared to adult or senior dogs. Also, big breeds will want food that supports their joints and bones, especially as they get older. Small breeds prefer food in smaller kibble sizes that are easy to chew, while seniors benefit from food that supports cognitive function and joint health.
For dogs with specific health issues like sensitive stomachs or skin issues, organic wet dog food is a go-to choice. And, of course, every dog has its own taste. Some may love the crunch of dry food, while others can’t resist the scent of wet food. In any case, it’s all about finding the right fit for your pup.
2. Always Read the Label
When choosing organic dog food, the label is your best guide. Look for an AAFCO statement to see if it meets basic nutrition standards and a USDA organic seal to make sure it’s free from synthetic additives, pesticides, and other unwanted ingredients. Check if high-quality protein, like organic chicken or salmon, is the first ingredient—this is a priority for your dog’s health. Avoid vague ingredients like “meat meal” and aim for non-GMO fruits, veggies, and whole grains. If it says “100% Organic” or “Organic” (at least 95% organic), that means it’s cleaner, healthier, and also supports eco-friendly farming practices.
3. Dry, Wet, or Raw—It’s Up to Your Dog
Once you’ve got the basics covered, you’ll want to think about the type of organic food you’re going for—dry, wet, or raw. Each has its benefits, and honestly, it often comes down to what your pup prefers. Dry food is convenient, easy to store, and can be good for dental health, while wet food is more hydrating and can be a hit with picky eaters or seniors who need softer food. Raw food, on the other hand, is the closest to a dog’s natural diet and offers some great health perks—but it might not be for every dog, so it’s worth calling your vet before getting Fido into a raw diet.
If you’re switching brands or trying a new type of food, start with a small can, pouch, or sample. This way, you can test if your dog likes it and how their system handles the new food before buying the food in bulk. Some brands even offer trial packs, so you can sample a few flavors or types to see what your dog enjoys most. Take your time to try things out and you’ll find an organic option that’s just right for your furry friend. Remember to read the labels, too.
To Wrap Up
Choosing the best organic dog food for your pup is all about finding what makes it feel its very best. Whether you’re going for dry, wet, or raw, taking the time to transition can make all the difference. The result is a happy and healthy doggo. And of course, organic doesn’t just mean quality ingredients but also a cleaner, greener planet.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.