Orijen Original Dry Dog Food Review – Premium Biologically Appropriate Nutrition
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5
Best for: Dogs of all life stages who thrive on high-protein, grain-free diets with fresh/raw ingredients.
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Key Features
✔ 85% Animal Ingredients – Includes free-run chicken/turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs
✔ Grain-Free & Low-Carb – No corn, wheat, soy, or tapioca
✔ Fresh or Raw Ingredients – Mimics a dog’s natural ancestral diet
✔ WholePrey™ Ratios – Contains meat, organs, cartilage, and bone (in balanced proportions)
✔ Made in Canada – Sourced from trusted regional farmers and fishers
Pros vs. Cons
✅ Pros:
Extremely high protein (38%) and fat (18%) for energy and lean muscle
Rich in omega-3s (from sardines, herring, and flaxseed) for skin/coat health
Limited processing – Air-dried coatings preserve nutrients
All life stages – Suitable for puppies to seniors
⚠️ Cons:
Expensive (~8/lb) – One of the priciest kibbles on the market
Too rich for some dogs – May cause looses tools if transitioned too quickly
Not for sedentary dogs – High calorie/fat content can lead to weight gain
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How It Compares to Other Premium Foods
| Feature | Orijen Original | Acana (Sister Brand) | Taste of the Wild Prey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein % | 38% | 31–35% | 32% |
| Animal Ingredients | 85% | 60–75% | 70% |
| Price per lb | $$$$ (~8) | $$$ (~5) | $$ (~4) |
| Best For | Active dogs, raw feeders | Budget-conscious premium buyers | Mid-range grain-free option |
✔ Choose Orijen if: You want the closest kibble to a raw diet and cost isn’t a concern.
✔ Choose Acana if: You like Orijen’s philosophy but need a more affordable option.
✔ Choose TOTW if: You want good quality grain-free at a lower price.
Transition Tips
Mix gradually over 10+ days (start with 25% Orijen).
Feed slightly less than usual (higher calorie density).
Monitor stool – Firmness indicates proper digestion.
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Real User Experiences
"My Border Collie’s coat has never been shinier!" – Omega-3s made a visible difference.
"Expensive but worth it." – Owners report fewer vet visits long-term.
"Too rich for my Bulldog." – Some less active dogs do better on Acana.
Final Verdict
Best for:
Active/working dogs (e.g., Huskies, Shepherds, Sporting breeds)
Owners who prioritize biologically appropriate nutrition
Dogs with grain sensitivities
"The gold standard of kibble – if your budget allows." 🐕💎
