ORIJEN Original Dog Food Review - Biologically Appropriate Premium 2024
In-depth review of ORIJEN Original dry dog food with 85% animal ingredients. See why this Canadian brand commands the highest prices in pet food.
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ORIJEN represents the pinnacle of commercial dog food. Their 'Biologically Appropriate' philosophy means 85% animal ingredients including fresh meats, organs, and cartilage in WholePrey ratios that mirror what dogs would eat in nature. At nearly $4 per pound, it's the most expensive mainstream dog food available. After testing with four dogs over 12 weeks, including two that had failed on multiple other premium brands, we can report that ORIJEN delivers exceptional nutrition - but whether it's worth the premium depends on your dog's specific needs.
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Key Features
- ✓85% quality animal ingredients
- ✓Fresh or raw animal ingredients
- ✓WholePrey ratios include organs and bone
- ✓38% protein from 6 animal sources
Pros
- +Highest meat content available in kibble
- +WholePrey approach mirrors natural diet
- +Exceptional ingredient quality and sourcing
Cons
- −Most expensive mainstream dog food
- −Very high protein may not suit all dogs
Understanding WholePrey Nutrition
ORIJEN's WholePrey concept means including not just muscle meat, but organs (liver, kidney, tripe) and cartilage in ratios that mimic a whole prey animal. This provides natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and glucosamine that other foods add synthetically. The Original formula uses chicken, turkey, whole eggs, and multiple fish species. Two-thirds of the meat is fresh or raw, not rendered meals. This is genuinely different from brands that list 'chicken meal' as their protein source.
Protein and Nutrient Density
At 38% protein and 18% fat, ORIJEN is nutrient-dense. The protein comes from six animal sources, providing complete amino acid profiles. Because the food is so concentrated, dogs eat less volume - a 60lb dog needs only about 2 cups daily. This somewhat offsets the high per-pound cost. Our test dogs maintained excellent body condition and energy on recommended portions. However, the richness requires a slow transition - rushing it caused digestive upset in two test dogs.
Allergy and Sensitivity Performance
Two test dogs had failed on multiple premium foods due to allergies and sensitivities. Both thrived on ORIJEN. One Shepherd mix with chronic ear infections and itchy skin cleared up completely within 6 weeks. A Pit Bull with persistent loose stools achieved firm, healthy digestion. The quality and variety of proteins, combined with the absence of common allergens and fillers, seems to work where other foods fail. For dogs with stubborn issues, ORIJEN may be worth trying.
The Value Question
Is ORIJEN worth nearly double the price of other premium foods? For healthy dogs on quality food, probably not - diminishing returns apply. But for dogs with allergies, sensitivities, or nutritional deficiencies, the investment can pay off in reduced vet bills and improved quality of life. The reduced feeding amounts help justify the cost. If you've tried everything else and your dog still struggles, ORIJEN should be on your list.
Final Verdict
ORIJEN Original is genuinely exceptional dog food. The 85% animal ingredients, WholePrey ratios, and meticulous sourcing create nutrition that approaches what dogs would eat naturally. For dogs that thrive on other quality foods, the premium may not be necessary. But for dogs with allergies, sensitivities, or owners who simply want the best regardless of cost, ORIJEN delivers. The transformation we saw in two struggling dogs was remarkable. It's expensive, but it's expensive for legitimate reasons.