Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, and providing them with the best nutrition is crucial for their growth and development. ORIJEN Puppy Recipe stands out as a Biologically Appropriate diet, prioritizing high-quality animal ingredients to support your puppy’s journey to peak health. This formula is rich in protein and fat, mirroring what a dog would naturally consume in the wild, ensuring their systems are fueled for optimal development.
Understanding Biologically Appropriate Nutrition
Champion Pet Foods, the Canadian manufacturer behind ORIJEN, is dedicated to creating diets that align with a pet’s ancestral eating habits. Their “whole prey” model incorporates muscle meat, organ meat, and bone, providing a natural and bio-available source of essential nutrients. This approach significantly reduces the need for synthetic supplements, as the nutrients are more readily absorbed and utilized by your puppy’s body. ORIJEN Puppy Recipe boasts 85% meat content, complemented by 15% fruits, vegetables, and botanicals, making it one of the most meat-dense kibbles available. This makes it an excellent choice for owners who occasionally supplement raw or fresh food diets with high-quality kibble.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Breakdown
The ORIJEN Puppy Recipe features a rich blend of fresh and raw animal ingredients, including free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish like flounder and mackerel, and cage-free eggs. The ingredient list is extensive, showcasing the commitment to diverse protein sources and nutrient-dense organ meats and vegetables:
- Primary Proteins: Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Mackerel, Eggs, Chicken Liver, Turkey Giblets (liver, heart, gizzard).
- Dehydrated Meats: Dehydrated chicken, turkey, mackerel, and chicken liver ensure concentrated protein content.
- Legumes and Vegetables: Whole red lentils, pinto beans, peas, chickpeas, pumpkin, butternut squash, collard greens, pears, and apples provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Fats and Oils: Chicken fat and pollock oil are crucial sources of essential fatty acids.
- Supplements: Includes essential vitamins and minerals, along with probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis, Lactobacillus casei) to support gut health.
Guaranteed Analysis
ORIJEN Puppy Recipe is formulated to be nutrient-dense, with a guaranteed analysis that supports rapid growth:
- Crude Protein (min.): 38%
- Crude Fat (min.): 20%
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids (min.): 3.5%
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min.): 0.8%
- DHA (min.): 0.2%
- EPA (min.): 0.2%
Caloric Content
The metabolizable energy is 3960 kcal/kg (449 kcal per 8oz cup), with a balanced macronutrient profile: 39% from protein, 16% from carbohydrates, and 45% from fat. This high-fat, high-protein, low-carbohydrate formulation is designed to support your puppy’s energy needs without excessive starch.
Feeding Guidelines for Your Growing Puppy
ORIJEN Puppy Recipe is suitable for puppies of all breeds and sizes, meeting the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages, including the growth of large-breed dogs. Remember that your puppy’s individual needs will vary based on environment, age, and activity level. The feeding table provided offers a starting point, and it’s essential to monitor your puppy’s weight and adjust portions accordingly to maintain an optimal body condition.
Recommended Daily Feeding Guide (using a standard 8-ounce measuring cup):
| Current Weight of Puppy | Expected Adult Weight: Toy & Small Breeds (11 lb / 5 kg) | Expected Adult Weight: Small – Medium Breeds (22 lb / 10 kg) | Expected Adult Weight: Medium Breeds (44 lb / 20 kg) | Expected Adult Weight: Medium – Large Breeds (66 lb / 30 kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LBS | KG | Cups (g) | Cups (g) | Cups (g) |
| 4.5 | 2 | 2/3 (76 g) | 2/3 (76 g) | 2/3 (76 g) |
| 11 | 5 | 2/3 (76 g) | 1 (114 g) | 1 1/3 (152 g) |
| 22 | 10 | – | 1 (114 g) | 1 3/4 (200 g) |
| 33 | 15 | – | – | 2 1/3 (266 g) |
| 44 | 20 | – | – | 1 3/4 (200 g) |
| 55 | 25 | – | – | – |
| 66 | 30 | – | – | – |
- For Gestating Puppies: Increase food intake by 25% to 50% of the adult amount.
- For Lactating Puppies: Feed “free choice,” allowing them to eat as much as they need.
Always ensure fresh, clean water is available. It’s recommended to store the food in a cool, dry place, sealing the bag tightly to maintain freshness. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor your puppy’s health and growth.
Choosing the right food is a significant step in ensuring your puppy thrives. ORIJEN Puppy Recipe offers a comprehensive, nutrient-rich diet that supports all aspects of your puppy’s development, from bone strength to cognitive function.
