Is ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food the pinnacle of canine nutrition, or does the premium price tag outweigh the benefits? With its promise of grain-free goodness, fresh and raw ingredients, and a formula designed for all life stages, ORIJEN Original certainly makes a bold claim. As an Amazon’s Choice product with over 14,000 ratings and a solid 4.6-star average, it’s clear this dog food has garnered significant attention. But what are pet owners really saying? Let’s delve into a detailed review, drawing insights from product information and a wide range of customer experiences.
Protein Powerhouse with WholePrey Goodness
ORIJEN Original boasts an impressive 85% animal protein content, derived from sources like chicken, turkey, salmon, and whole herring. The ingredient list reads like a carnivore’s dream, with the first five ingredients being chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver. This focus on animal-based ingredients aligns with a dog’s biological needs, providing a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. As one reviewer aptly put it, “Primary ingredients are wild meats, fish, poultry. Not by-products, but meat suitable to be offered to human consumers.”
The “WholePrey” concept is central to ORIJEN’s philosophy, incorporating not just muscle meat but also organs and bones, mimicking a dog’s natural diet in the wild. This holistic approach aims to deliver a nutrient-dense meal without relying heavily on plant-based fillers. Customers consistently praise the high-quality ingredients, noting the absence of plant fillers and the inclusion of “meat suitable to be offered to human consumers.”
Quality and Palatability: A Hit with Most Dogs
The consensus among reviewers is that ORIJEN Original is a high-quality dog food. Many customers highlight the superior ingredients compared to other commercial brands, even those marketed as premium. “But the QUALITY is much HIGHER than most commercial, premium and super-premium pet foods,” one reviewer states, emphasizing the perceived value in the ingredient quality.
For many dogs, the taste is a definite win. Owners report eager eaters, with some even using the kibble as training treats. “My dogs are very eager eaters, now. And I have used the kibble, by itself, and a training treat for them as well. They love it!” shares a satisfied customer. Another mentions, “She actually loves her dinner time! Overall the smell of it it’s not fake like other dog food you find on a grocery store.” This suggests a natural aroma and flavor that appeals to canines.
Coat Shine and Health Benefits
A frequently mentioned benefit in customer reviews is the improvement in coat health. Many owners rave about their dogs developing a beautiful, shiny coat with reduced shedding after switching to ORIJEN Original. “His coat remains healthy-looking and shiny, with little to no shedding,” one user notes. Beyond aesthetics, some reviewers observed improvements in their dogs’ overall health and vitality, including better stool consistency and increased energy levels.
The Price Point: Premium Food, Premium Cost
The high quality of ORIJEN Original comes at a premium price. Value for money is a recurring theme in reviews, with mixed opinions. Some customers acknowledge the expense but deem it worthwhile for the superior ingredients and perceived health benefits. “Love this dog food. So do my two boys. The food despite being EXPENSIVE, is in my opinion, the best dog food on the market,” one reviewer admits, highlighting the trade-off between cost and quality.
However, others express concerns about the price, especially when feeding larger dogs or multiple pets. While some find it “good price for this high quality puppy food”, the general sentiment leans towards ORIJEN being a more expensive option compared to average dog foods.
Digestive Sensitivities and Smell: A Word of Caution
While many dogs thrive on ORIJEN Original, some reviewers report digestive issues, particularly diarrhea. “The food gave her diarrhea,” shares one customer, while others mention vomiting and digestive upset. It’s important to note that these experiences are not universal, and many dogs digest the food without any problems. However, it’s wise to transition to ORIJEN gradually and monitor your dog’s stool and overall well-being, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Another point of contention is the smell. Some describe it as strong and pungent, which can be off-putting to some owners, although some dogs seem to find it appealing. “Sure, the smell is bad when you open the bag - it’s pungent and lingers,” one reviewer remarks, while others find the “smell of it it’s not fake like other dog food.” Smell perception is subjective, and while it might be a minor inconvenience for some, it could be a deterrent for others.
Conclusion: A Top-Tier Choice for Dedicated Owners
ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food stands out as a high-protein, grain-free option packed with quality animal ingredients. Customer reviews largely validate its reputation for quality, with many praising its positive impact on coat health, palatability, and overall well-being. However, the premium price and potential digestive sensitivities are factors to consider.
If you are prioritizing top-tier nutrition and are willing to invest in a high-quality, biologically appropriate diet for your dog, ORIJEN Original is undoubtedly a strong contender. However, if budget is a primary concern or your dog is known for digestive sensitivities, it’s prudent to weigh the pros and cons carefully and perhaps consider a gradual introduction while closely monitoring your pet’s reaction.
Ultimately, the decision to choose ORIJEN Original depends on your individual priorities and your dog’s specific needs. But for those seeking a grain-free, protein-rich food with a focus on whole animal ingredients, ORIJEN Original remains a highly regarded option in the premium dog food market.