When it comes to premium nutrition for your dog, Orijen dog food consistently ranks among the top choices for pet parents who want biologically appropriate, high-protein meals made with fresh animal ingredients. Known for their commitment to mimicking a dog’s natural ancestral diet, Orijen offers grain-free formulas packed with real meat, organs, and cartilage—delivering nutrients in ways that support energy, coat health, digestion, and overall vitality. In this comprehensive roundup, we’ve tested and reviewed seven of the most popular Orijen products to help you find the perfect match for your pup’s age, size, and lifestyle.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Orijen Dog Food Review Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Orijen Original Dry Dog Food for All Ages – Grain Free, High Protein with Fresh Animal Ingredients
This flagship formula from Orijen dog food is designed for dogs of all life stages, delivering a nutrient-dense, biologically appropriate meal packed with fresh regional ingredients. With 85% quality animal components—including free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and nutrient-rich organs—it mirrors what dogs evolved to eat in the wild.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 85% animal ingredients (fresh or raw)
- ✓ Grain-free and carbohydrate-limited
- ✓ Includes WholePrey ratios (meat, organs, cartilage)
- ✓ No plant proteins or synthetic fillers
- ✓ Rich in omega fatty acids for coat and skin health
Why We Recommend It
Orijen Original stands out for its uncompromising commitment to freshness and species-appropriate nutrition. Dogs thrive on this food—owners report shinier coats, better digestion, and sustained energy levels. It’s especially great for active dogs or those with sensitivities to grains and fillers.
Best For
Adult dogs of all sizes, multi-dog households, and pet parents seeking a single, high-quality kibble that meets the needs of different life stages.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally high protein content (38%)
- Uses regional, sustainably sourced meats
- Supports healthy weight and muscle maintenance
- Minimal processing preserves nutrient integrity
Cons:
- Higher price point than conventional kibble
- Strong odor may deter some owners
- Not ideal for dogs with severe poultry allergies
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My two labs have been on Orijen Original for over a year now. Their coats are silky, stools are firm, and they’re full of energy. Worth every penny!” – Sarah T.
Customer Review: “Switched from a cheaper brand and noticed a huge difference in my dog’s digestion and overall happiness. He licks the bowl clean every time.” – Mike R.
2. Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food for Large Breeds – Grain Free, High Protein with Fresh Animal Ingredients
Specially formulated for large breed puppies, this Orijen dog food recipe balances high protein with controlled calcium and phosphorus to support steady, healthy growth—not rapid weight gain that can harm developing joints. Made with 85% animal ingredients, including free-run chicken, turkey, and wild fish.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Tailored for large breed puppy development
- ✓ 38% protein from fresh poultry and fish
- ✓ DHA for brain and eye development
- ✓ Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- ✓ Grain-free with no corn, wheat, or soy
Why We Recommend It
Large breed puppies need careful nutrition to grow strong without putting stress on their bones and joints. This formula delivers premium protein while managing mineral levels—critical for breeds like Goldens, Labs, and German Shepherds. Owners notice calmer energy and fewer digestive upsets during growth spurts.
Best For
Large breed puppies (50+ lbs adult weight) from 2 months up to 18–24 months, depending on breed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Supports healthy skeletal development
- High palatability—even picky eaters love it
- Rich in natural DHA from whole fish
- No artificial preservatives or colors
Cons:
- Expensive compared to standard puppy foods
- Kibble size may be large for very small puppies
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Excellent item. Excellent price. Thank you” – Verified Buyer
Customer Review: “Have a lot of trust in this brand of dog food. My Great Dane puppy is growing steadily and looks incredibly healthy.” – Jessica L.
3. Orijen Freeze-Dried Regional Red Dog Treats – Biologically Appropriate and Grain Free
These aren’t just treats—they’re bite-sized nutrition. Made with ranch-raised beef, wild boar, and lamb, these freeze-dried morsels retain maximum flavor and nutrients without cooking or additives. Perfect for training or rewarding your pup with something truly wholesome.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 100% animal ingredients—no fillers or grains
- ✓ Freeze-dried to preserve natural enzymes and nutrients
- ✓ Single-protein source (ideal for sensitive dogs)
- ✓ Soft texture easy to break into smaller pieces
- ✓ Rich in protein and healthy fats
Why We Recommend It
If you’re serious about clean feeding, these treats align perfectly with Orijen’s philosophy. They’re great for dogs with food sensitivities and make excellent high-value rewards during training sessions. Plus, they stay fresh longer than baked treats.
Best For
Training, dogs with allergies, or as a protein boost between meals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No artificial preservatives or flavors
- Highly digestible and gentle on stomachs
- Strong scent dogs find irresistible
- Convenient resealable packaging
Cons:
- More expensive per ounce than standard treats
- Can crumble if over-handled
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These treats sit well with my dog’s insides—and stay fresh for a long time as long as you don’t leave the package open. These treats are also good for training as the ‘better’ treat for when your dog does something exceptionally good.” – Linda K.
Customer Review: “My picky eater actually gets excited for these! I use them for agility training and she focuses so much better.” – Tom H.
4. Orijen High Protein Dry Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies with Amazing Grains
This newer addition to the Orijen dog food lineup introduces “Amazing Grains”—a blend of ancient grains like sorghum and oats—to provide sustained energy while maintaining high protein levels. Still packed with 90% quality poultry and fish, it supports large breed puppies without sacrificing digestibility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 90% animal ingredients (poultry and fish)
- ✓ Includes beneficial ancient grains
- ✓ Enhanced with probiotics for gut health
- ✓ Balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio
- ✓ Rich in DHA for cognitive development
Why We Recommend It
For owners who want the protein power of Orijen but are open to limited, functional grains, this formula offers a great middle ground. The grains add fiber and slow-release energy, which can help regulate blood sugar and reduce hyperactivity in growing pups.
Best For
Large breed puppies where moderate grain inclusion is acceptable or preferred by the owner.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More affordable than grain-free Orijen lines
- Improved stool quality due to added fiber
- Still free from corn, wheat, and soy
- Excellent for multi-puppy households
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities
- Grain content may not appeal to purists
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My Mastiff puppy loves this food! His coat is thick and shiny, and vet says his growth rate is perfect.” – Amanda P.
Customer Review: “Switched to this from a raw diet for convenience. Pup adjusted easily and has tons of energy.” – David M.
5. ORIJEN® Dry Dog Food, High Protein, Amazing Grains Puppy 22.5LB Freeze Dried Dog Treats, Original…
A versatile combo pack featuring both high-protein puppy kibble and freeze-dried treats—ideal for new puppy parents who want to start strong. The kibble supports growth with 90% animal ingredients, while the treats offer a convenient, nutritious reward option.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Bundle includes kibble and treats
- ✓ 22.5lb bag covers several weeks of feeding
- ✓ Treats made from whole animal ingredients
- ✓ Great value for premium nutrition
- ✓ Supports training and daily nutrition
Why We Recommend It
This bundle simplifies feeding and rewarding your puppy with consistent, high-quality ingredients. It’s especially useful during the critical socialization period when treats are frequent but nutrition must remain top-tier.
Best For
New puppy owners, training-focused households, or as a gift for dog lovers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cost-effective bundle pricing
- Consistent ingredient profile across products
- Treats are easy to carry for on-the-go training
- Large bag reduces frequent repurchasing
Cons:
- Only one flavor option in the bundle
- Treats may be too rich for very small puppies
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect starter pack for our new Golden Retriever puppy! She loves both the kibble and the treats.” – Rachel S.
Customer Review: “Great value and quality. Our trainer even commented on how focused our pup is during sessions—must be the high-protein treats!” – Kevin L.
6. ORIJEN Amazing Grains High Protein Dry Dog Food Puppy Recipe 22.5lb Bag
This 22.5lb bag of Orijen dog food offers excellent value for growing puppies, combining high protein (38%) with ancient grains for balanced energy. Designed to support three key benefits: muscle development, immune health, and digestive wellness—all through natural, whole-food ingredients.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 90% poultry and fish ingredients
- ✓ Includes WholePrey ratios (organs, meat, cartilage)
- ✓ Fortified with probiotics and antioxidants
- ✓ Large bag size reduces cost per serving
- ✓ Sustainably sourced proteins
Why We Recommend It
For families with large breed puppies, buying in bulk saves money without sacrificing quality. This formula maintains Orijen’s high standards while offering slightly more fiber from grains—great for pups who need steady energy throughout the day.
Best For
Budget-conscious owners of medium to large breed puppies who still want premium nutrition.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lower cost per pound than smaller bags
- Supports healthy growth and immunity
- Highly palatable—puppies eat it eagerly
- No artificial additives or by-products
Cons:
- Storage can be challenging in small spaces
- Grains may not suit grain-sensitive dogs
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I did a lot of research trying to put together a balanced diet for my now 7 months old puppy, and this has honestly been one of the best choices we made. We use Orijen as kibble, for low-value treats, scatters, in snuffles and other toys…” – Emily R.
Customer Review: “My dog absolutely thrives on this food! The ingredients are top quality — full of real meat and nutrients — and I can tell the difference in her energy level, coat shine, and overall health.” – Jessica W.
7. Amazon Business American Express Card
While not a dog food product, the Amazon Business American Express Card is a smart financial tool for pet businesses or frequent buyers of premium pet supplies like Orijen dog food. Earn 5% back on eligible Amazon purchases, enjoy no annual fee, and access expense management tools.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods
- ✓ No annual fee
- ✓ Built-in expense reporting
- ✓ Fraud protection and purchase alerts
- ✓ Ideal for recurring pet supply purchases
Why We Recommend It
If you regularly buy high-end dog food, treats, or supplies, this card can significantly reduce your long-term costs. The 5% rebate on Orijen purchases adds up fast—especially with large bags or subscription deliveries.
Best For
Pet owners who buy in bulk, run pet-related businesses, or want to maximize savings on everyday pet expenses.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Substantial savings on frequent purchases
- Easy integration with Amazon Business account
- No foreign transaction fees
- Reliable customer service
Cons:
- 5% back only on first $100k in Amazon spending annually
- Requires good credit for approval
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The Amazon Business Prime American Express Card is a strong option for small businesses that frequently make purchases from Amazon and its associated businesses, offering enhanced rewards and financing options…” – Business Owner
Customer Review: “It is a great card to have, we purchase almost everything on our card.” – Verified User
Complete Buying Guide for Orijen Dog Food
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating Orijen dog food, we prioritize ingredient quality, protein source diversity, life stage suitability, and digestibility. Orijen’s “biologically appropriate” philosophy means real meat always comes first—no plant proteins masquerading as meat substitutes. We also assess whether the formula supports your dog’s specific needs: puppies need balanced minerals, seniors benefit from joint support, and active dogs thrive on high protein.
Budget Planning
Orijen is a premium brand, and prices reflect that. Expect to pay $70–$100 for a 22–25lb bag of dry food. However, many owners find they feed less due to high nutrient density, which can offset costs. Consider buying larger bags or using rewards cards (like the Amazon Business Card) to stretch your budget. Freeze-dried treats are pricier per ounce but used sparingly, making them manageable for most households.
Final Thoughts
Orijen isn’t just dog food—it’s a commitment to feeding your pet as nature intended. While it’s an investment, the results in coat quality, energy levels, and digestive health often speak for themselves. Whether you choose the grain-free Original formula or the newer Amazing Grains line, you’re giving your dog food that respects their carnivorous biology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orijen dog food suitable for puppies?
A: Yes! Orijen offers several puppy-specific formulas, including options for large breeds and those with “Amazing Grains.” These are designed to support healthy growth with balanced protein, fat, and essential nutrients like DHA and glucosamine.
Q: Can Orijen cause digestive issues in some dogs?
A: Due to its high protein and fat content, some dogs may experience loose stools during the transition period. We recommend gradually mixing Orijen with your current food over 7–10 days to allow their system to adjust.
Q: Is Orijen grain-free?
A: Not all Orijen products are grain-free. While classic lines like Original and Puppy are grain-free, newer “Amazing Grains” formulas include ancient grains like sorghum and oats for added fiber and energy.
Q: Where is Orijen dog food made?
A: Orijen is manufactured in Alberta, Canada, using regionally sourced ingredients. The company emphasizes traceability and works with trusted farmers and fishers.
Q: How long does a 22.5lb bag of Orijen last?
A: It depends on your dog’s size and activity level. A 50lb active dog may consume about 4–5 cups per day, meaning a 22.5lb bag (approx. 90 cups) lasts roughly 18–22 days.
Ready to give your dog the nutrition they deserve? Whether you’re looking for a complete meal or a tasty reward, our top-rated Orijen dog food picks offer something for every pup. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and start your dog on the path to better health today!