‘Organic’ is a common term in modern society that is often thrown around, yet few people truly understand what it means. Many people think it’s similar to ‘natural’ or even ‘fresh,’ but nothing could be farther from the truth. What does the green USDA stamp of certified organic really mean for you—and, more importantly, for your dog?
What Does the ‘Organic’ Label Mean?
Organic certification varies by region and jurisdiction, but the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a general and complete guideline to use as a reference. Certified USDA organic foods, whether produced in the US or imported, are guaranteed to be free of antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, irradiation, and bioengineering. In addition to being free from toxins, organic farms and farmers must also adhere to good soil and water conservation practices and follow guidelines on the humane treatment of animals.
Who ensures that farmers are adhering to these strict criteria? Private and state agencies inspect organic farms for compliance, and they can impose fines of up to $10,000 if a product fails to meet USDA standards. With these regulations in place, consumer trust in organic certified products has grown, along with the annual sales of organic foods.
What is Organic Dog Food?
Organic dog food is not a new concept—after all, what did dogs eat just a century ago? However, the general public has been slow to embrace the need for organic dog food, even as food-related health issues and allergies have risen.
Organic dog food is made from organic ingredients with a focus on sustainable and humane farming practices. Although the USDA notes that there is no conclusive evidence proving organic ingredients are “healthier” or more nutritious than conventional ones, doesn’t it make sense that food free of hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides would be a better choice for your four-legged family member?
The Top Five Reasons to Feed Your Pet Organic Dog Food
- A Healthy Weight and More Energy – Are toxins and impurities blocking your dog’s ability to absorb nutrients? Are fillers causing your dog to overeat due to a lack of nutrition? No one knows for sure, but whether it’s the ‘purer’ nutrition or the absence of fillers, dogs fed organic food often eat less, have more energy, and maintain a healthier weight—without starvation diets or excessive exercise!
- Healthier Skin, Ears, and Feet – Does your dog constantly itch or scratch at their ears or skin? Do they suck on their paws until they become red and swollen? Do they have a strong odor or produce more natural oils than other dogs of the same breed? These could be signs of a food allergy. Switching from a filler-heavy food to an organic kibble can often treat these issues holistically, saving you from extra vet visits!
- A Healthier Digestive System – What would your digestive system feel like if you lived on low-fiber, poorly balanced, and overly processed junk food your whole life? That’s how the average dog feels on typical low-nutrient, high-filler, and overly processed commercial food. And if your dog is prone to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, or gas, feeding them a nutritionally balanced organic diet can help reduce or even eliminate digestive discomfort. For dogs with compromised digestive systems due to conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s disease, or colitis, an organic diet can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Add high-fiber whole grains like oats, barley, or legumes along with wholesome meats, and you’ll give your unhappy pup a fresh lease on life!
- Healthier Companion with a Stronger Immune System – You are what you eat, and so is your pet! Balanced, bioavailable nutrition leads to a healthier dog with a stronger immune system, better able to fight off viruses, bacteria, parasites, and all the other issues an unhealthy pet can develop. A bonus? A healthy dog means no more bad breath!
- A Longer, Healthier, and Happier Life – A long life isn’t enough—it also needs to be a happy and healthy one! Dogs fed a nutritionally complete organic dog food, free from pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics, not only live longer but also live better. A shiny coat, healthy weight, improved exercise tolerance, and a strong immune system all contribute to your pet’s ability to live a long, fulfilling life.
Organic dog food provides your pet with nutrition free from toxins, formulated for their optimal health. Don’t you think it’s time to make the switch?