Did you know that 85% of ORIJEN Original Formula consists of high-quality animal ingredients? This staggering percentage sets it apart in the premium dog food market. As a veterinary nutritionist, I’ve analyzed countless dog food brands, and ORIJEN’s commitment to mirroring a dog’s ancestral diet caught my attention.
Premium Ingredients That Mirror Nature’s Diet
The foundation of ORIJEN Original Formula rests on its first five ingredients: fresh or raw chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver. This carefully selected combination mirrors the natural prey diet of ancestral canines, delivering essential nutrients in their most bioavailable form.
The WholePrey approach incorporates meat, organs, and cartilage, providing a complete nutritional profile similar to what dogs would consume in the wild. Fresh ingredients are preserved through refrigeration, while raw ingredients are frozen at peak freshness to maintain their nutritional integrity.
Organ meats like chicken liver and heart contribute vital nutrients, including iron, vitamin A, and B vitamins. Cartilage provides natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, supporting joint health and mobility.
Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits
This formula boasts an impressive 38% protein content, supporting lean muscle development and maintenance. The balanced ratio of Omega-3 (0.8%) to Omega-6 (3.1%) fatty acids promotes healthy skin and a lustrous coat.
The grain-free formulation makes this food particularly suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities. Energy distribution follows a natural pattern: 39% from protein, 42% from fat, and 19% from carbohydrates, delivering 3,860 kcal/kg of metabolizable energy.
Feeding Guidelines and Portion Control
Dogs weighing 10-20 kg require different portions based on their activity level. Less active dogs need 120-160 grams daily, while active dogs should receive 150-240 grams. These amounts should be divided into two meals per day.
Fresh, clean water should always be available to support proper hydration and digestion.
Value Analysis and Size Options
ORIJEN Original Formula comes in three package sizes:
- 4.5 lb bag: $34.99
- 13 lb bag: $72.99
- 23.5 lb bag: $105.99
These packages are available through major retailers like Petco, though availability may vary by location.
Real Pet Owner Experiences
Pet owners frequently report improvements in their dogs’ coat condition and energy levels after switching to ORIJEN Original Formula. Many note enhanced digestive health and overall vitality in their pets.
Some customers mention a strong fishy odor, which is attributed to the high fish content in the formula. Others describe an initial adjustment period for their dogs’ digestive systems, which typically resolves as pets adapt to the nutrient-dense formula.
Making the Right Choice
Your dog deserves nutrition that honors their biological needs. ORIJEN Original Formula delivers premium ingredients with scientific backing. While the price point reflects its quality, the health benefits and satisfaction reported by pet owners make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking top-tier nutrition for their dogs.
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