A Deep Dive Into the Perfect Organic Pet Treats

One shake of the treat bag can result in your dog or cat seemingly teleporting to your side, ears up, and eyes fixed in anticipation. Treats are a great way to spoil our fur babies, but pet owners are becoming increasingly concerned with what they give their pets. Fillers? Additives? Unpronounceable ingredients? No thanks.

Pet treat and food companies have noticed pet owners' changing preferences. If you take a trip to your local pet store or visit your favourite pet supplies website, chances are you’ll see plenty of varieties of organic pet treats, food, grooming products, and more.

But is the term “organic” a marketing ploy, or is there something more to it? And if it’s worth going for organic pet care products, how do you choose the best ones?

In this article, we explore the answers to these questions and give you a plethora of recommendations for different organic pet care products that are worth your time.

Why Should You Consider Pet Organic Treats?

Pet organic treats must strictly comply with the same regulations and standards as our organic food before receiving Canada Organic certification. The organization responsible for ensuring these regulations is the Canada Organic Regime (COR).

Organic pet treats and food must generally be grown and raised on organic farms without containing the following:

• Genetically modified ingredients
• Toxic pesticides
• Synthetic hormones
• Antibiotics
• Sewage splurge
• Artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors
• Irradiation

Farmers working on organic farms must also follow guidelines, including properly treating animals and following adequate soil and water conservation methods. They must also strictly adhere to the Canadian authority’s regular inspections and keep tabs on food production and processing.

The main reason why fur parents trust organic pet treats over standard ones, despite the higher costs, is because of the wide selection of benefits the animals will enjoy. Let’s go over the most essential ones.

Enhanced Energy Levels

Organic pet treats usually have higher-quality ingredients due to the regulations surrounding them. As a result, they have a more positive impact on your pet’s health. Organic treats are also more nutrient-dense than standard treats.

Moreover, organic treats usually contain more protein, which helps boost your pet’s immune system.

Smoother Skin and Coat

Most organic pet treats contain ingredients with essential fatty acids, such as berries, pumpkin, flax seeds, and more. These ingredients can benefit your pet’s coat and skin, improving their condition and reducing the risks of itching and flaking. As a result, your pet will have a glossier and more healthy-looking coat.

Prevent Food Allergies

Some pets may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients commonly found in standard pet treats, such as artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Because organic treats have simple and natural ingredients, they help prevent your pets from encountering allergic reactions, which often manifest as skin issues.

Additionally, filler ingredients found in standard treats can contribute to developing food allergies. Fortunately, organic pet treats don’t contain these nutrients, which can also help the animal’s digestion.

Balanced Nutrition and Healthier Weight

Organic pet treats have a heightened focus on the nutrients that your pet actually needs, which helps maintain their weight. A dog or cat at a healthy weight is going to have a better quality of life compared to an overweight or obese pet.

Better Gut Health

The premium ingredients and nutrients present in organic treats can help prevent nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and other digestive issues. The whole purpose of organic treats is to focus on natural ingredients. Not only do organic treats often contain little or no fillers or additives, the natural ingredients in these treats can also have a positive effect on your pet’s gut health, helping them stay regular and have less stinky poops.

Some organic pet treats include prebiotics or probiotics, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Prebiotics are indigestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that can enhance gut microbiota balance.

Best Organic Pet Treats

Now that organic pet treats are becoming more diverse and famous, the options will continue to grow. This can leave you confused about the best brand to provide for your pet. After narrowing down hundreds of options, let’s take a look at the best organic treats, which most veterinarians also vouch for.

*Pricing as of November 2023.

Wet Noses All-Natural Peanut Butter Banana Treats

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Wet Noses All-Natural Peanut Butter Banana Treats contain natural banana and peanut butter flavors approved by dogs. These treats are non-GMO-verified and certified USA organic. No wheat, corn, soy, dairy, animal byproducts, or artificial preservatives exist.

The main advantage of these all-natural peanut butter banana treats is the huge amount of vitamin B and calcium they contain, which is excellent for your pet. These treats are also grain-free and easily chewable, promoting better dental health.

$68.38 CAD for a 2.27 kg box. Pricing as of November 2023.

Cookie Pal Dog Biscuits with Sweet Potato and Flaxseed

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Dogs who prefer sweet treats will love Cookie Pal Dog Biscuits with Sweet Potato and Flaxseed. These treats contain whole foods, including lentils, sweet potato, cinnamon, and flaxseeds.

The dog biscuits are prepared in an environmentally friendly bakery with zero waste. They are also a bit crunchy, with each treat bar containing three squares. Each square has 13 calories. Cookie Pal Dog Biscuits also contain Omega-6 fatty acids, which have the following benefits:

1. Promote shinier coat
2. Prevent inflammation
3. Enhance muscle condition because of the protein component

$7.99 CDN for a 300 g bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

Full Moon Natural Organics Jerky

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Full Moon Natural Organics Jerky uses human-grade organic ingredients. The main ingredient is free-range chicken, making the jerky chewy and meaty. Plus, the natural chicken flavor contains essential minerals and vitamins.

Other ingredients in the jerky include cultured skim milk, ground brown rice, vinegar, cane sugar, and hickory smoke flavor. You can also try Full Moon’s ducky fillets and beef jerky for other alternatives. They are organic as well!

$22.10 CAD for one 14oz bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

Riley’s Organic Pumpkin and Coconut Treats

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Riley’s Organic Pumpkin and Coconut Treats are crunchy biscuits packed with natural coconut and pumpkin flavors. All ingredients are human-grade and organic, free from sugar salt, wheat, soy, corn, and other artificial preservatives.

Riley’s organic treats are also 100% vegan and non-GMO-verified. Other flavors include tasty apple, peanut butter and molasses, and sweet potato.

$11.13 CAD per 142 g bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

Castor & Pollux Organix Chicken Flavor Organic Cat Treats

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Castor and Pollux Organic Chicken Flavor Cat Treats contain 95% organic ingredients, and the primary protein source is free-range chicken. Each treat only has one calorie, making it an excellent choice for animals who need to lose weight. There are no chemical pesticides, antibiotics, or synthetic fertilizers added.

Each treat also features a tasty and crunchy drumstick shape. There are no corn, soy, or wheat contents, perfect for cats with dietary restrictions.

$21.09 CAD per 60 g bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

Yitto Paws Organic Puppy Treats

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These organic puppy treats from Yitto are perfect bite-sized crunchy biscuits containing oats, apples, beets, strawberries, peanut butter, and rosemary extract. Each treat has four calories and no sugar added! Most veterinarians also swear by these organic goodies.

Yitto Paws Organic Puppy Treats are also human-grade and contain no corn, wheat, or soy. They are also high in fiber, promoting digestion and better gut health.

$17.78 CAD for a 227 g bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

Full Moon Organic Chicken Training Treats

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Another recommended organic treat from Full Moon is perfect for dogs engaged in active training. These bite-sized goodies contain organic chicken as the primary ingredient. Each treat only has three calories with no artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Full Moon Organic Treats also contain the essential amino acids your dog needs to maintain healthy digestion, a smooth coat, and strong immunity.

$10.63 CAD for a 6 oz bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

Don’t Stop With Treats: Organic Pet Food Considerations

Besides treats, providing organic pet food can also significantly improve the animal’s overall health and well-being. They are more sustainable because of organic farming practices, which also help reduce soil erosion and protect the environment.

Moreover, organic pet food also contains higher nutritional value because of the condition of the surroundings where the ingredients were sourced and grown.

However, choosing the best organic pet food for your furry companions can be overwhelming, like organic treats. Important factors must be considered because they affect how your pet’s body responds to the food. Here are critical considerations when shopping for an ideal organic pet food:

Assess Your Pet’s Needs

The best organic pet food must live up to your pet’s nutritional needs. This can help you determine the excellent option to help with the animal’s overall health and well-being.

Your pet’s needs can be based on the following:

Age and Current Life Stage

Nutritional requirements differ in each life stage. For instance, puppies and kittens need a diet for growth and development, while adult animals need nutrients to improve and maintain their well-being. Subsequently, aging pets also need specialized dietary considerations to help prevent their bodies from deteriorating faster.

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Activity Level

Your pet’s nutritional requirements are influenced by their activity level. Pets with high activity levels, like working dogs or those in agility training, demand a greater calorie intake and specific nutrients to sustain the amount of energy they spend. Conversely, less active pets may benefit from a diet that assists in managing a healthy weight without excess calories.

Breed and Size

Larger breeds may also have distinct requirements compared to smaller ones. Certain breeds may be predisposed to specific health issues that can be controlled or avoided with proper nutrition. It's advisable to investigate your pet's breed and seek advice from your veterinarian to identify any unique dietary factors.

Health Condition

Preexisting health conditions can also affect your pet’s nutritional requirements, especially allergies, kidney disease, or digestive problems. Consulting with the vet is essential to determine whether adjustments must be made to improve your pet’s dietary requirements.

Allergies

Similar to humans, pets can develop allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients. It's crucial to pinpoint any potential food allergies or intolerances your pet might experience, such as grains, particular proteins, or additives. If your pet displays signs such as itching, digestive disturbances, or skin irritations, opt for a pet food without these allergens.

Consulting with the Veterinarian

Your pet’s vet will always know best. Regular consultations and communication are essential because these doctors fully understand the animal’s health and diet history. This way, they can make personalized recommendations regarding your pet’s diet and nutrition based on their needs.

More importantly, the vet can also determine the balance between dietary modifications, portion sizes, and essential nutrients.

Ensure Organic Certification

The pet food must have an organic certification seal from a reputable organization. Look for labels like Certified Organic to ensure the product meets the guidelines necessary for organic production.

Compare Availability and Cost

Evaluate the cost and accessibility of various organic pet food brands. Although organic pet food can become more expensive than standard alternatives, choose a brand that fits your budget and available resources. Moreover, consider the brand's availability in your location to ensure a consistent supply of your pet's preferred organic food.

Should You Opt for Organic Raw Pet Food Over Traditional?

Preferring organic raw pet food over traditional depends on various factors because no two pet animals have similar needs. Aside from the relevant factors mentioned above, choosing raw pet food will also require time and effort to ensure it has all the ingredients to fulfill essential nutrients.

A vet consultation is, again, essential when deciding on this matter. You must weigh the potential benefits and risks to check whether a raw diet will provide precisely what your pet needs to stay strong and healthy.

Organic raw food can be a compelling choice because it contains natural and high-quality ingredients without the following:

• Artificial additives
• Processed ingredients
• Fillers with empty calories
• Synthetic chemicals and pesticides

Best Organic Pet Food

Below are the top 4 recommendations on the best organic pet food in the market today. Each option has premium-quality ingredients and is certified organic.

* Pricing as of November 2023.

1. Tender and True Organic Dog Food

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Tender and True Organic Dog Food feature six dry recipes, and the most popular is the Chicken and Liver Recipe. The ingredients include:

1. Organic Chicken
2. Chicken meal
3. Tapioca starch
4. Dried peas
5. Chickpea

This organic dog food is grain-free, providing proteins to your pets through the fresh chicken and chicken meal, with a fat-to-protein ratio of 62%. The brand is certified USDA organic. Other recipes include turkey, salmon, ocean whitefish, and more.

Starts at $26.22 for a 4 lb bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

2. Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Organic Chicken Recipe All Life Stages Canned Cat Food

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One of the most affordable organic pet food for cats is Castor and Pollux Organix Organic Chicken Recipe. It’s a nutritionally balanced canned cat food that uses natural ingredients without pesticides, antibiotics, added growth hormones, GMOs, and synthetic fertilizers.

These canned foods by Castos & Pollux are cooked in an organically-certified kitchen in the United States. It’s also certified by the AAFCO certified.

$2.59 CAD per can. Pricing as of November 2023.

3. Gather Free Acres Dog Food

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Gather Free Acres Dog Food is grain-free, with the following ingredients: dehydrated chicken, chicken, organic peas, chicken fat, and lentils. It has a fat-to-protein ratio of 50% and also contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.

Gather Free Acres also takes pride in including taurine in the recipe, supporting vision and heart health. It’s also MSC certified, supporting your pet’s brain health.

$47.99 CAD per 2.72 kg bag. Pricing as of November 2023.

4. Purina Beyond Organic Natural Wet Cat Food

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Most cats sometimes prefer wet foods because they have higher moisture levels that can fit the animal’s diet. Vets recommend these options over dry food for cats suffering from urinary disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and picky eaters.

Purina Beyond Organic Natural Wet Cat Food has two recipes:

• Sweet potato pate and organic chicken
• Carrot pate and organic chicken

The main protein source is organic chicken, and Purina uses free-range chicken sustainably raised in the US.

$1.89 CAD per can. Pricing as of November 2023.

Organic Pet Food Recipes to Follow

Homemade pet food diets are also becoming popular because it’s easier to control the ingredients when you’re making them. At the same time, homemade recipes are considered healthier because no processed ingredients are involved.

However, it’s not as easy as you think it is. Certain factors are critical before switching your pet to a homemade diet. Here are important considerations:

1. The recipe must be completely balanced.
2. Measuring the ingredients and adequately preparing the food can be tedious and time-consuming.
3. You must prepare your budget for buying the ingredients because homemade food can be more expensive than kibble.
4. Picky pets call for sourcing multiple recipes so that you can periodically change the diet, keeping the animal interested.

What You Will Need

After deciding on a recipe that will work, you must prepare a few things to make the process easier. Before starting, you need a food scale for measuring ingredients, a food processor to break down huge components, pots, and pans for cooking, and containers for portioning. Your ingredients must be fresh and high-quality, not heavily processed, seasoned, or canned.

Here are a couple of simple organic pet food recipes for both dogs and cats:

Organic Chicken and Rice Dog Food:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 cup organic brown rice
• 1/2 cup organic carrots, chopped
• 1/2 cup organic peas
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken in a large pot with water until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and shred it.
2. Cook rice in the same pot as per the package instructions.
3. In a separate pot, cook the chopped carrots and peas until tender.
4. Mix the cooked chicken, rice, and vegetables.
5. Let it cool before serving.

Organic Salmon and Sweet Potato Cat Food:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup organic salmon, cooked and flaked
• 1/4 cup organic sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• 1/4 cup organic peas, cooked and mashed
• 1/4 cup organic carrots, cooked and mashed
• 1/4 cup organic chicken broth (low sodium)

Instructions:

1. Cook and flake the salmon.
2. Cook and mash the sweet potato, peas, and carrots.
3. Mix the salmon, vegetables, and chicken broth.
4. Let it cool before serving.

Other Organic Pet Products

As more people embrace a holistic approach to pet care, the demand for organic pet products has also risen. These products offer a range of benefits, from supporting your pet's well-being to reducing their exposure to synthetic chemicals and toxins. Let’s talk about organic pet vitamins, shampoo, and grooming products.

Organic Pet Supplements / Organic Pet Vitamins

Wholistic Pet Organics is a leading brand providing USDA-certified organic pet supplements and vitamins. The brand guarantees all products are pure and potent, cruelty-free, with no fillers and artificial ingredients, and made in-house.

The Ninth Life, Inc. features Longevity Products for dogs and cats, which serve as vitamins to supplement your pet’s health.

Another organic pet supplement that you should give to your pet daily is TRI-ACTA. As many as 20% of dogs will develop joint issues over one year of age, and more than 80% of cats will develop joint pain over the age of 10. TRI-ACTA is a preventative joint supplement that you can easily incorporate into your pet’s diet simply by sprinkling the powder into their food. What makes TRI-ACTA unique is that it contains 100% natural and active ingredients that already occur in your pet’s body; the supplement is just providing more of them to promote better joint health. With two types of glucosamine that together provide maximum mobility, plus chondroitin (helps cartilage repair and regeneration) and Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM, a natural anti-inflammatory), your pet will be able to move around more easily in no time.

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Organic Pet Shampoo

4-Legger uses clean and natural ingredients, providing the best organic shampoo for your dogs. All products from this brand are certified as non-toxic and suitable for all animals, including those with preexisting health conditions.

Pure and Natural Pet is also a leading brand selling organic pet shampoos, including fragrance-free conditioners.

Organic Pet Grooming Products

The best products from Earth Bath are natural wipes, best used to wipe dirt from your pet’s muddy paws after a long walk. The wipes are also 100% biodegradable.

Boodhie Dog pet products are also all-natural and nontoxic, with the breath spray as the bestselling product. This product not only serves to freshen your dog's breath but also plays a role in combatting the bacteria in a dog's mouth, contributing to the long-term maintenance of oral health.

Mobility Supplements: The Perfect Addition to Your Pet Care

Mobility supplements are designed to enhance the quality of life for your furry friends by promoting their joint health, flexibility, and overall mobility.

While maintaining lean body weight and promoting regular exercise are crucial for joint health, nutritional supplements can further enhance joint comfort and safeguard the cartilage, which acts as a cushion to prevent bone-on-bone friction during your dog's movements.

TRI-ACTA is a great joint supplement that can be incorporated into your dog or cat’s daily diet to support their joint health. TRI-ACTA contains essential ingredients, including two types of glucosamine (not often found in pet joint supplements), chondroitin (works with glucosamine to prevent cartilage degradation), and MSM (a natural anti-inflammatory). By giving your cat or dog TRI-ACTA, you can help prevent them from developing serious joint conditions later in life.

If your pet already suffers from a joint condition, TRI-ACTA H.A. is our extra-strength version. It includes all of the ingredients in TRI-ACTA, but also includes hyaluronic acid. This essential ingredient increases the viscosity of the synovial fluid in your pet’s joints, allowing for easier movement.

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Summary

Organic pet treats are natural, high-quality snacks for pets that prioritize health and well-being. They are made from organic ingredients, free from synthetic chemicals and additives. These treats can promote better digestion, healthier skin, and coats and may also suit pets with food sensitivities or allergies.

While organic pet treats can be slightly more expensive than conventional options, many pet owners believe they provide a healthier choice for their animals. It's essential to consider your pet's specific dietary needs and preferences when selecting organic treats and consult with a veterinarian for tailored recommendations.

Mobility supplements are useful adjuncts to your pets, providing overall care to maintain joint health. TRI-ACTA H.A. and TRI-ACTA are effective joint supplements for dogs, cats, and horses, helping with mobility, inflammation, and age-related soreness. Get in touch to find a retailer or place an order, or check out our FAQ for answers to any lingering questions you might have.