Wellness CORE Original Turkey & Chicken
Owners committed to grain-free feeding who want high-protein, clean ingredients
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Orijen Original
Owners who want the absolute best ingredient quality regardless of cost
Orijen is widely considered the gold standard of commercial dog food. 85% animal ingredients, WholePrey ratios with organs and cartilage, zero recalls ever. The ingredient list reads like a butcher shop menu. The only real barriers are the ~$2.13/day price and the grain-free DCM concern.
Strengths
- Zero recalls in brand history — impeccable safety record alongside sister brand ACANA
- 85% animal ingredients from fresh/raw free-run chicken, turkey, and wild-caught fish
- WholePrey ratios include organs and cartilage — mimics natural ancestral diet
Limitations
- Most expensive option at ~$2.13/day — ultra-premium pricing
- Very high protein content (38%+) may be too rich for sedentary dogs
- Grain-free formula subject to FDA DCM investigation concerns
When to Choose Wellness CORE Original Turkey & Chicken
Owners committed to grain-free feeding who want high-protein, clean ingredients
Wellness CORE is a strong grain-free option with deboned turkey and chicken leading the formula. High protein content and no artificial anything. The grain-free DCM concern is the main caveat — if your vet approves grain-free, this is one of the better options in the category.
Strengths
- High-protein grain-free formula with deboned turkey and chicken as top ingredients
- No wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, or artificial additives
- Clean safety record with no recalls in 5+ years for dry food
Limitations
- Grain-free formula falls under FDA DCM investigation umbrella
- Premium pricing at ~$1.67/day for a grain-free option
- Ingredient transparency could be stronger on sourcing origins
