Orijen original dog food: A Deep Dive into Premium Canine Nutrition 

As a discerning pet owner, you know that the right nutrition is the foundation of your dog’s health and happiness. With an abundance of dog food brands on the market, each claiming to be the best, it can be challenging to navigate the options. Orijen has long stood out as a leader in premium dog nutrition, with its original formula being a cornerstone of its offerings.

This guide will take a deep dive into Orijen Original dry dog food, exploring its biologically appropriate philosophy, breaking down its ingredient list, and providing a comprehensive feeding guide.

The Biologically Appropriate™ Philosophy: Nourish as Nature Intended 

Orijen’s core mission is to feed dogs according to their evolutionary and biological needs. In the wild, canines thrive on a diet rich in whole-animal ingredients, and Orijen’s Biologically Appropriate™ philosophy seeks to replicate this natural diet. This means formulating recipes with a high percentage of meat, organs, and cartilage, mirroring the diet a dog would consume in its natural habitat.

This approach stands in stark contrast to many commercial pet foods that rely heavily on processed grains, plant-based proteins, and fillers. Orijen’s focus on nutrient-dense animal ingredients provides the concentrated nutrition your dog needs for optimal health and vitality.

Key Nutritional Features of Orijen Original 

High protein content

Orijen Original boasts a minimum of 38% crude protein, a significant amount that supports strong, lean muscle mass and provides sustained energy for active dogs. This high-protein content is derived from a variety of fresh or raw poultry and fish, ensuring your dog receives a wide spectrum of essential amino acids.

Limited carbohydrates

With a focus on animal-based ingredients, Orijen Original contains significantly fewer carbohydrates than many conventional dog foods, with only 19% of calories from carbs. This low-glycemic formula helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, supports a healthy body weight, and reduces the risk of obesity and diabetes.

“WholePrey” ingredients

The “WholePrey” ingredient list includes not just meat, but also nutrient-dense organs, and bones. These parts of the animal are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which are crucial for overall health. This holistic approach to ingredient sourcing ensures your dog receives a complete and balanced diet, similar to what they would eat in the wild.

Freeze-dried coating

To enhance palatability and appeal to even the pickiest eaters, Orijen kibble is coated with freeze-dried liver. This adds a boost of natural flavor and aroma that dogs find irresistible, ensuring they get excited for every mealtime.

Added probiotics and prebiotics

For optimal gut health, Orijen includes prebiotics and probiotics, such as chicory root and Enterococcus faecium. These beneficial bacteria aid in digestion, support a healthy immune system, and contribute to overall digestive wellness.

A Detailed Look at the Ingredient List 

Orijen is transparent about its ingredients, and the list for the Original recipe is a testament to its commitment to quality. The first five ingredients are always fresh or raw animal sources, highlighting the protein-first philosophy.

A typical ingredient list for Orijen Original includes:

• Fresh or raw chicken
• Fresh or raw turkey
• Fresh or raw flounder
• Whole mackerel
• Chicken liver
• Whole red and green lentils
• Whole pinto and navy beans
• Pollock oil
• Whole pumpkin and butternut squash
• Variety of fresh fruits and vegetables

The recipe also includes a carefully selected blend of vitamins, minerals, and botanicals to ensure a complete and balanced meal.

Feeding Guide for Orijen Original

Determining the right portion size for your dog depends on several factors, including their weight, age, and activity level. As Orijen is nutrient-dense and highly concentrated, you may find yourself feeding less than with other brands.

Here is a general guide, but always consult the bag for specific recommendations and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns:

• Adult dogs: Start with the recommended feeding amount for your dog’s weight and adjust based on their activity level. For example, a less active dog will need less food than a highly active working dog.
• Puppies: Puppies have different nutritional needs and often require higher protein and calories to support their growth. Orijen provides specific feeding guidelines for puppies on its packaging, often recommending higher portions based on age and anticipated adult weight.
• Gestation and lactation: Pregnant and lactating dogs have increased nutritional needs. Orijen recommends increasing the portion size by 25-50% during gestation and offering “free-choice” feeding during lactation to ensure the mother dog and her pups get sufficient nutrition.

The Importance of a Gradual Transition 

Switching to a new, nutrient-rich food like Orijen requires a gradual transition to prevent digestive upset. A sudden change can shock your dog’s system, leading to diarrhea or vomiting.

Here is a recommended 10-14 day transition schedule:

• Day 1-2: Mix 25% new food with 75% old food.
• Day 3-4: Mix 50% new food with 50% old food.
• Day 5-6: Mix 75% new food with 25% old food.
• Day 7+: Feed 100% Orijen, assuming your dog has transitioned well.

During this process, monitor your dog’s stool and behavior. If they experience any digestive issues, slow down the transition and contact your vet if symptoms persist.

Addressing Recent Concerns: Formula Changes and Ownership 

Recent years have seen some mixed reviews and concerns from long-time Orijen customers, particularly following the acquisition of Champion Petfoods by Mars Petcare. Some pet owners have reported changes in their dogs’ health, such as digestive issues or skin irritation.

Orijen maintains that it has not compromised on quality and that any formula adjustments have been made to enhance digestibility, palatability, and sourcing. It’s always wise to monitor your dog closely when introducing any new food and consult your vet if you notice adverse effects.

Making an Informed Decision: Pros and Cons

Like any dog food, Orijen Original has its strengths and weaknesses. Here is a balanced look to help you make an informed decision.

Pros

• High-quality ingredients: Orijen uses fresh or raw, high-quality animal ingredients, setting a high standard for premium dog food.
• High palatability: The freeze-dried liver coating makes Orijen highly palatable, even for picky eaters.
• Supports overall health: The nutrient-dense formula supports immune health, digestive wellness, and a healthy skin and coat.
• Biologically appropriate: The high-protein, low-carb formula aligns with a dog’s evolutionary diet, promoting a healthy weight and overall well-being.
• Reputation for quality: Despite recent changes, Orijen has a long-standing reputation for producing premium pet food and is generally well-regarded by many experts.

Cons

• Price: Orijen is a premium dog food, and its price point can be a barrier for some pet owners.
• Recent customer concerns: Some customers have reported negative experiences following the ownership change, raising concerns about potential formula adjustments and consistency.
• High protein: While a pro for most, the high protein content might be too rich for some dogs, especially those with certain health conditions or sensitive stomachs.
• Not suitable for all puppies: While approved for all life stages, the Original formula is not recommended for the growth of large-breed puppies.

Final Verdict: Is Orijen Original Right for Your Dog?

Orijen Original is an excellent choice for dog owners seeking a high-protein, grain-free diet with a focus on whole-animal ingredients. Its nutritional profile, packed with premium fresh and raw proteins, aligns with a dog’s biological needs and supports overall health from immune function to a shiny coat.

However, the premium price and some recent customer feedback mean it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. It’s crucial to consider your dog’s specific needs, budget, and willingness to monitor their transition closely. By understanding the full nutritional picture, you can decide if Orijen Original is the right premium food to fuel your dog’s adventures for years to come.