Introduction
Finding the right pet food is one of the most important decisions for any pet parent. A well-balanced diet not only fuels your dog or cat’s daily energy but also supports their long-term health, growth, and happiness. With so many options available in the market, it can feel overwhelming to know which brand offers the best balance of quality, nutrition, and value. Among the most popular and trusted names in the industry are Orijen, Acana, Nutro, Iams, and Pedigree—each bringing a unique approach to pet nutrition.
While Orijen and Acana focus on biologically appropriate, high-protein recipes inspired by natural diets, Nutro emphasizes clean, non-GMO ingredients and wholesome nutrition. Iams combines decades of research with affordability, making it a reliable choice for everyday feeding, while Pedigree offers budget-friendly options trusted by millions of pet owners worldwide. Together, these brands represent a diverse range of philosophies, from premium holistic nutrition to widely accessible daily diets.
In this guide, we’ll explore each of these brands in detail, highlighting their key features, benefits, and pros and cons—helping you make an informed decision about which pet food is the right fit for your furry friend.
1
Orijen
Produced by Champion Petfoods in Canada, Orijen emphasizes whole-prey nutrition, using fresh, regionally sourced ingredients such as free-run poultry, wild-caught fish, and ranch-raised meats. With recipes rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, Orijen ensures pets receive high-quality nutrition that supports energy, muscle health, and overall vitality. Its focus on raw and fresh ingredients appeals strongly to health-conscious pet owners seeking a natural diet for their companions.
A+
Overall Grade
4.9
10K+
Review
- Features
Biologically appropriate, meat-first formulas.
Up to 85% animal ingredients.
Fresh, regionally sourced proteins.
Grain-free recipes with limited fillers.
- Benefit
Promotes lean muscle development.
Provides high energy for active pets.
Supports healthy skin, coat, and digestion.
Mimics the ancestral diet of dogs and cats.
Pros :
✔ Premium, high-protein nutrition.
✔ Fresh and regional ingredients.
✔ Excellent for active pets.
Cons :
✘ Expensive compared to mainstream brands.
✘ Grain-free may not suit all pets.
✘ Limited availability in some regions.
2
Acana
Also produced by Champion Petfoods, Acana offers biologically appropriate diets similar to Orijen but with slightly more affordable formulations. It focuses on fresh regional ingredients like free-range poultry, ranch-raised beef, and wild-caught fish, blended with wholesome fruits and vegetables. Acana’s recipes are protein-rich and nutrient-dense, making them a popular choice for pet parents who value clean, natural nutrition without artificial additives.
A-
Overall Grade
4.7
7.5K+
Review
- Features
50–70% animal ingredients.
Locally sourced meat, fish, and produce.
Grain-free and limited-ingredient options.
Slow-cooked to preserve nutrients.
- Benefit
Supports overall vitality and health.
Ideal for pets with food sensitivities.
Promotes digestive health with natural fibers.
Enhances skin, coat, and muscle development.
Pros :
✔ High-quality natural ingredients.
✔ More affordable than Orijen.
✔ Wide range of recipes for sensitivities.
Cons :
✘ Still pricier than commercial brands.
✘ Grain-free focus not ideal for every pet.
✘ Some picky eaters may find it less palatable.
3
Nutro
Owned by Mars Petcare, Nutro has built its reputation around its “Feed Clean” philosophy. Its formulas avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives while emphasizing real proteins, whole grains, and nutrient-rich vegetables. Nutro offers a variety of lines, including grain-free, limited-ingredient, and wholesome essentials, tailored to dogs and cats across all life stages.
B+
Overall Grade
4.5
8K+
Review
- Features
Non-GMO ingredients.
Real meat as the first ingredient.
No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Specialized formulas for different life stages.
- Benefit
Supports digestion and nutrient absorption.
Helps maintain shiny coats and healthy skin.
Provides balanced nutrition for long-term health.
Suitable for pets with food sensitivities.
Pros :
✔ Clean-label ingredients.
✔ Wide variety of product lines.
✔ Affordable compared to other natural brands.
Cons :
✘ Not as protein-rich as Orijen or Acana.
✘ Some recipes include grains, which may not suit sensitive pets.
✘ Occasional recalls in past years.
4
Iams
Founded in the 1940s, Iams has become a household name in pet food. It focuses on providing tailored nutrition across life stages, breed sizes, and health conditions. With recipes that include real animal protein, wholesome grains, and fortified vitamins and minerals, Iams balances quality with affordability, making it an accessible choice for many pet owners worldwide.
B-
Overall Grade
4.3
8.5K+
Review
- Features
Wide variety of breed- and size-specific diets.
Real meat as a primary protein source.
Includes essential vitamins and minerals.
Affordable and widely available.
- Benefit
Provides complete and balanced daily nutrition.
Supports strong muscles and healthy energy levels.
Promotes digestion and nutrient absorption.
Suitable for multi-pet households.
Pros :
✔ Affordable and accessible.
✔ Trusted brand with a long history.
✔ Wide range of formulas for different pets.
Cons :
✘ Contains fillers like corn and by-products.
✘ Not as natural or premium as newer brands.
✘ Some pets may develop sensitivities.
5
Pedigree
Also owned by Mars Petcare, Pedigree is a widely recognized global brand that provides dog food designed for everyday feeding. While not positioned as a premium product, Pedigree delivers balanced nutrition with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s especially popular among households seeking affordable feeding options for multiple pets. Pedigree also supports pet adoption and welfare initiatives, further strengthening its brand presence.
C+
Overall Grade
4.0
6.5K+
Review
- Features
Widely available and affordable.
Formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors.
Dry, wet, and treat varieties.
Enriched with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Benefit
Provides daily balanced nutrition.
Helps maintain energy and vitality.
Easy to find in stores worldwide.
Supports skin, coat, and oral health.
Pros :
✔ Very affordable.
✔ Widely available globally.
✔ Variety of products and flavors.
Cons :
✘ Contains fillers and by-products.
✘ Not as nutrient-dense as premium brands.
✘ Less suitable for pets with sensitivities.
Summary Conclusion
When exploring the wide world of pet nutrition, Orijen, Acana, Nutro, Iams, and Pedigree stand out as five well-recognized names that together cover almost every type of pet parent’s needs. Each brand has its own philosophy, unique selling points, and target audience, which makes them suitable for very different situations.
For pet owners who want to provide a diet that mirrors what dogs and cats would eat in the wild, Orijen and Acana shine with their biologically appropriate, high-protein formulas. Orijen is often considered one of the most premium brands in the market, featuring up to 85% animal ingredients, with recipes crafted from fresh, regionally sourced meats and fish. Acana follows a similar philosophy but offers slightly more affordable options while still focusing on fresh, natural ingredients. Both are excellent for active pets that need energy-dense, protein-rich meals and for owners who value holistic, grain-free nutrition.
Nutro, on the other hand, positions itself around the idea of “clean feeding.” It emphasizes non-GMO ingredients, natural proteins, and recipes free from artificial additives. With its variety of grain-free, wholesome, and limited-ingredient diets, Nutro appeals to owners who want a balanced blend of affordability, clean-label transparency, and quality nutrition. It’s particularly beneficial for pets with sensitivities or owners who prioritize ingredient integrity without paying luxury prices.
Iams has a long history in the pet food market and is trusted by millions of households worldwide. It offers a broad selection of recipes tailored to life stages, breed sizes, and health requirements. While it may not have the premium feel of Orijen or Nutro, Iams delivers solid, research-backed nutrition at a mid-range price, making it an attractive option for families who want dependable food without stretching their budgets too far.
Finally, Pedigree represents one of the most accessible and budget-friendly brands available across the globe. Its formulas are designed to provide complete and balanced daily nutrition at a price point that suits multi-pet households or owners looking for simple, affordable feeding solutions. While it may not carry the same premium quality or ingredient integrity as some of the higher-end brands, Pedigree remains a trusted staple in many homes and is widely recognized for its global reach and support of animal welfare initiatives.
In conclusion, these five brands together highlight the diverse landscape of pet food. From premium, protein-rich diets for health-focused owners (Orijen and Acana) to clean, natural formulas for ingredient-conscious pet parents (Nutro) and affordable, reliable options for everyday feeding (Iams and Pedigree), there is a suitable choice for every pet and every budget. The key for pet parents is to evaluate their furry friend’s age, breed, activity level, sensitivities, and health goals to select the food that will best support their long-term health and happiness.