Orijen Small Breed Dog Food Reviews 2025: Ingredients, Pros, Cons & Real Results
July 31, 2024
Finding the right food for your small dog can be a challenge. Between countless formulas, ingredient claims, and price points, choosing what’s truly best for your furry friend often feels overwhelming. In 2025, Orijen Small Breed Dog Food continues to stand out as one of the top premium choices for pet parents who want to feed their dogs a high-protein, biologically appropriate diet.
But is Orijen really worth the price? Does it suit all small dogs? And how does it compare with competitors like Blue Buffalo or Royal Canin? Let’s explore the full picture in this detailed, vet-reviewed Orijen Small Breed Dog Food review for 2025.
A Brand Built on “Biologically Appropriate” Nutrition
Orijen is produced by Champion Pet Foods, a trusted Canadian company known for its “biologically appropriate” philosophy — meaning its recipes are designed to mirror the natural diets of wild dogs.
The company operates manufacturing facilities in Alberta, Canada, and Kentucky, USA, where it produces its dry and freeze-dried recipes using locally sourced ingredients. Unlike mass-market brands, Orijen controls its own production, which helps ensure freshness, quality, and traceability.
What truly sets Orijen apart is its commitment to whole-prey ingredients — including meat, organs, and bone — to mimic a dog’s ancestral diet. The result? A food that’s naturally high in protein, rich in nutrients, and free from unnecessary fillers.
What Makes Orijen Small Breed Dog Food Special?
Designed specifically for small dogs weighing 1–10 kg (2–22 lbs), Orijen Small Breed Dog Food combines high-quality animal proteins, low carbohydrates, and small, easy-to-chew kibble.
Key Features
85% animal ingredients (2/3 fresh or raw, 1/3 gently dehydrated)
High protein content: around 40%
Low glycemic, grain-free formula
Freeze-dried coating for extra flavor
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Locally sourced meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables
Each bag is packed with a nutrient-dense combination of free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs, complemented by wholesome fruits and botanicals. This makes it ideal for small breeds that need concentrated nutrition in smaller portions.
Ingredient Breakdown: What’s Really Inside?
Orijen is transparent about its ingredients — and that’s one reason it’s so respected among pet owners. Let’s take a closer look at the key components of the Small Breed formula.
Primary Protein Sources
Fresh Chicken & Turkey: High-quality, free-range poultry packed with amino acids that help maintain muscle mass and energy.
Whole Mackerel, Herring & Flounder: Sustainably sourced fish that supply essential omega-3 fatty acids, promoting skin and coat health.
Eggs: A complete protein source rich in vitamins and minerals, though they can trigger allergies in some dogs.
Organ Meats
Chicken Liver & Turkey Giblets: Provide iron, vitamin A, and taurine for heart health and strong immunity.
Fruits & Vegetables
Pumpkin, Squash, Apples, Pears, Blueberries: These add natural fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
Leafy greens like collard greens and spinach: Support digestion and bone strength.
Botanicals
Chicory root, turmeric, and rosemary: Included to promote digestion and act as natural antioxidants.
What’s Missing
No wheat, corn, soy, or artificial preservatives.
No meat by-products or mystery ingredients.
Limited carbohydrates — derived mostly from lentils and peas rather than grains.
Nutritional Analysis
Here’s a snapshot of the typical nutrient breakdown for Orijen Small Breed Dog Food:
| Nutrient | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 40% |
| Crude Fat | 18% |
| Crude Fiber | 4% |
| Moisture | 12% |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.8% |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.8% |
| Calories | 473 kcal/cup |
This makes it one of the most protein-dense small-breed kibbles available, offering sustained energy and lean muscle support.
Feeding Guidelines
Feeding depends on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. Always start with the manufacturer’s recommendations printed on the packaging, then adjust based on your dog’s needs.
As a general rule:
1.5–3 lbs (0.7–1.3 kg): ¼ to ½ cup per day
6–10 lbs (2.7–4.5 kg): ¾ to 1¼ cups per day
15–20 lbs (6.8–9 kg): 1½ to 2 cups per day
Split portions into two meals daily, and ensure fresh water is always available.
Price and Availability in 2025
Orijen Small Breed Dog Food is a premium product, and that’s reflected in the price. In 2025, expect to pay around:
$60–$80 for a 4.5 lb (2 kg) bag, depending on the retailer and location.
You can purchase it online through Amazon, Chewy, PetSmart, or Orijen’s official website, as well as select local pet boutiques.
While it’s more expensive than average, many pet owners agree that the superior ingredients and noticeable health benefits justify the cost.
Customer Reviews & Real Owner Feedback
Most users continue to rate Orijen Small Breed Dog Food 4.5 to 5 stars in 2025. Here’s what pet parents are saying:
“My Yorkie has a super sensitive stomach, but Orijen Small Breed worked wonders. No more bloating or itching!” – Verified Chewy Review
“Expensive but worth it. My dog’s coat has never looked shinier.” – Amazon Reviewer
“I’ve tried multiple brands, but my picky Chihuahua finally eats consistently with this one.” – PetSmart Review
The most common praise centers around improved energy, digestion, coat quality, and appetite.
The main complaints are the high price and limited availability in smaller stores.
Is Orijen Suitable for Dogs with Allergies or Sensitive Stomachs?
Yes — generally. Orijen uses natural, high-quality, and easily digestible ingredients that are gentle on most dogs’ stomachs. However, it does contain chicken and eggs, two common allergens.
If your dog has known sensitivities, you may want to try Orijen Six Fish Grain-Free, which excludes poultry entirely and uses fish as the sole protein source.
Orijen vs Blue Buffalo vs Royal Canin
When it comes to comparing Orijen Small Breed with other leading brands, here’s how it stacks up:
| Feature | Orijen Small Breed | Blue Buffalo Small Breed | Royal Canin Small Breed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Content | ~40% | ~26% | ~24% |
| Primary Ingredients | Fresh meat & fish | Meat + grains | Meat meal + grains |
| Artificial Additives | None | Minimal | Some |
| Price Range | $$$ | $$ | $$$ |
| Suitable For | Active small dogs | Sensitive or senior small dogs | Dogs with medical/dietary needs |
Verdict:
Choose Orijen for high protein, natural ingredients, and active dogs.
Choose Blue Buffalo if you want more affordable, gentle formulas.
Choose Royal Canin for dogs with specific medical conditions or veterinary diets.
Pros and Cons of Orijen Small Breed Dog Food
Pros
Exceptionally high-quality, locally sourced ingredients
85% meat and fish content for superior protein
No artificial additives or fillers
Small kibble size suited for tiny mouths
Great for energy, coat, and muscle maintenance
Grain-free and low-carb
Suitable for dogs of all ages and activity levels
Cons
High price compared to most brands
Contains chicken and eggs (possible allergens)
Not widely available in supermarkets
May be too protein-rich for dogs with kidney issues
Recall History & Safety
Orijen has an excellent safety record.
No recalls have occurred in the United States.
A 2008 voluntary recall in Australia involved cat food only, due to labeling issues.
While Orijen was mentioned by the FDA during the 2018 grain-free/heart disease investigation, no evidence has linked Orijen specifically to health issues. Champion Pet Foods continues to maintain transparency about sourcing and production.
Orijen Small Breed for Puppies, Seniors & Weight Control
For Puppies: The formula’s high protein supports healthy growth. Feed according to puppy weight guidelines.
For Seniors: Still suitable, though owners may prefer Orijen Senior for adjusted calorie levels.
For Weight Management: Its low-carb, high-protein nature helps maintain lean muscle while supporting healthy weight when portions are controlled.
Grain-Free Options
Yes — the Orijen Small Breed formula is entirely grain-free, using legumes like lentils and peas instead of grains. This helps avoid common sensitivities to corn or wheat. However, the brand also offers “Amazing Grains” recipes for owners who prefer some whole grains in their dog’s diet.
Conclusion: Is Orijen Small Breed Worth It in 2025?
After reviewing all aspects — from ingredients to owner experiences — it’s clear that Orijen Small Breed Dog Food remains one of the best premium options for small dogs in 2025.
Its focus on fresh, regional, whole-prey ingredients sets it apart from mass-produced kibbles. The formula supports digestion, coat health, and sustained energy — exactly what small, active dogs need.
Yes, it’s pricey — but you’re paying for quality, transparency, and nutrition that aligns with your dog’s biological needs.
If your small breed thrives on protein-rich food and you don’t mind spending a bit more, Orijen Small Breed Dog Food is an excellent investment in your pet’s long-term health.
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