Best Natural Dog Food: A Complete Guide

Best natural dog food

More and more dog owners in the UK are seeking out natural diets for their pets, but the landscape can be confusing. Words like natural, organic and holistic appear across packaging and marketing, often leaving owners unsure what’s genuinely good and the best natural dog food for their pets.

Natural dog foods generally avoid harsh chemical additives, instead focusing on recognisable ingredients like named meats, vegetables and grains. In contrast, many conventional kibbles rely on vague meat derivatives, artificial preservatives and synthetic flavourings.

It’s worth noting that the term natural isn’t legally defined, but the European pet food authority FEDIAF provides guidance. Under its rules, natural pet foods must be made from plant, animal or mined sources, and not subjected to chemically synthetic processes.

In this article, we’ll look at what “natural” really means, how to choose the best options, and how the Natural Dog Food Company’s range can support your dog’s health and wellbeing.

What counts as natural dog food?

FEDIAF defines “natural” ingredients as those derived from plant, animal, microorganism, or mineral sources to which nothing has been added and that have undergone only physical processing while maintaining their natural composition. Synthetic vitamins and minerals are allowed with an appropriate disclaimer. 

Organic means something produced without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial chemicals.

Holistic is characterised by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole.

These words do not have legal meanings and so it is encouraged to focus on the ingredients list rather than marketing claims. Ingredients list on the back of the pack come under legal scrutiny and so must be an arcuate and true representation of the product.

How to spot a natural dog food

A truly natural dog food should list specific protein sources, such as chicken, lamb or salmon.

These products usually have a simple and easy to understand ingredients list. Steer clear of vague wording like “animal derivatives”, “meat by-products”, or ambiguous fillers, which can mean low-quality ingredients.

At the Natural Dog Food Company, every recipe clearly names its ingredients, so owners know exactly what they’re feeding. You can view full ingredient transparency on our adult chicken, lamb, and salmon dog food pages.

Benefits of feeding natural dog food

Feeding a natural diet brings a range of benefits for your dog:

• Easier digestion – natural ingredients are gentler on the stomach, reducing tummy upsets and loose stools.
• Improved skin and coat – balanced nutrients and natural oils contribute to glossy coats and healthy skin.
• Steady energy levels – many owners notice their dogs have consistent energy and calmer behaviour.
• Support for sensitivities – a balanced natural diet can help with allergies or intolerances by avoiding synthetic additives and unnecessary fillers.
• Long-term health – good nutrition lays the foundation for vitality and wellbeing throughout your dog’s life.

Best types of natural dog food and how to choose

The best natural diet will depend on your dog’s age, size and sensitivities. However, the most trustworthy natural foods share key traits: transparency, quality ingredients and gentle preparation.

Dry natural dog food

Convenient, shelf-stable and nutritionally complete. Look for recipes with clearly named meats and natural preservatives.

Natural food by life stage and dietary needs

Natural formulas are available for puppies, adults, seniors and different breed sizes, as well as dogs with specific needs such as sensitive stomachs, allergies, or picky appetites. Explore our puppy and sensitive diet natural dog food ranges for examples.

For puppies or dogs with specific health conditions, it is advised to consult your vet before making a change.

Key ingredients in natural dog food

Beneficial ingredients to look for include:

• Named proteins such as chicken, lamb or salmon
• Whole grains like brown rice and oats
• Vegetables and fruits for vitamins and fibre
• Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil or flaxseed for skin health
• Natural antioxidants like vitamin E and rosemary extract

Some natural foods use single or novel protein sources to help reduce allergens.

Ingredients to avoid include:

• Artificial preservatives
• Long ingredients lists with complicated ingredients
• Synthetic colours or flavours
• Vague terms like “meat derivatives”, “meat meal” or “by-products”
• Multiple protein sources in elimination diets (single groups such as poultry or fish are better but should still be broken down into individual sources)

Grain-free vs grain-inclusive

Grain-free recipes suit some dogs with sensitivities, but whole grains can be an excellent source of nutrients for many others, cereals should be avoided. The key is choosing digestible, named grains rather than fillers.

Transitioning to natural dog food

Switching to a natural diet should be done gradually:

1. Start with 75% old food and 25% new food for a few days.
2. Move to 50/50 once your dog’s digestion looks stable.
3. Shift to 25/75, then finally 100% natural food within 7–10 days.

Monitor digestion, appetite and energy throughout. Because natural diets are often more nutrient-dense, you may need to adjust portion sizes (for Natural Dog Food products please use our feeding calculator for guidance, found on any of our product pages).

The Natural Dog Food Company’s range

At the Natural Dog Food Company, we pride ourselves on creating recipes with human-grade ingredients, single protein sources, whole grains or vegetables, and natural preservatives.

Our foods are gently cooked to preserve nutrients and contain no artificial additives, colourings or fillers. Explore our adult chicken, lamb, and salmon recipes, or visit our shop page to view the full range.

“Since switching to the Natural Dog Food Company’s salmon recipe, Bella’s digestion has been much better and her coat is shinier than ever. We won’t be going back.” – A happy customer

Choosing a natural dog food with clear, recognisable ingredients and minimal processing can make a real difference to your dog’s health. From improved digestion to healthier skin and coats, steady energy and long-term wellbeing, the benefits are clear.

Explore the Natural Dog Food Company’s range today and see the difference for yourself.

FAQs

Is natural dog food better for my dog?
For many dogs, yes. Natural diets are made with recognisable, minimally processed ingredients and avoid synthetic additives.

How can I tell if dog food is natural?
Check the ingredient list for named proteins, whole grains or vegetables, and natural preservatives. Avoid vague terms and artificial additives.

Can I mix natural dog food with my dog’s current food?
Yes, but transition gradually to avoid digestive upset. Natural Dog Food is a complete diet meaning evening the dog needs is within the product, however if you are adding to the food, please be careful not to overfeed and reduce amounts as necessary.

What’s the difference between natural and organic dog food?
Organic foods must meet strict farming and certification standards. Natural foods avoid synthetic additives but don’t have to be certified organic.

How long does it take to see benefits after switching to natural dog food?
Some owners notice improvements in digestion within a week. Skin, coat and energy changes may take several weeks.

Are grains bad in natural dog food?
Not necessarily. Whole grains like brown rice and oats are nutritious. Grain-free diets are suitable for dogs with specific sensitivities.

Keep in touch:

Facebook: @naturaldogfoodcompany
Instagram: @naturaldogfoodco

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