Orijen Original Wins
Winner
Orijen Original Grain-Free High-Protein dry dog food bag

Orijen Original

8.9

Owners who want the absolute best ingredient quality regardless of cost

VS
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe with Roasted Bison dry dog food bag

Taste of the Wild High Prairie

8.2

Dogs with chicken or grain sensitivities who need novel protein sources at a reasonable price

David Nakamura
David Nakamura

Score Comparison

Criteria
Orijen Original
Taste of the Wild High Prairie
Overall Score
8.9
8.2
Ingredient Quality
9.5
8.0
Nutritional Profile
9.5
8.0
Safety Record
10.0
9.0
Ingredient Transparency
9.5
7.5
Value Per Serving
5.5
8.5
Palatability & Acceptance
9.0
8.5

Pricing & Features

Specification
Orijen Original
Taste of the Wild High Prairie
Price
$2.13/day
$0.96/day
Package Price
$100 for 47 days
$54 for 56 days

Making Your Decision

Orijen Original logo

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
Taste of the Wild High Prairie logo

When to Choose Taste of the Wild High Prairie

Dogs with chicken or grain sensitivities who need novel protein sources at a reasonable price

Taste of the Wild offers exotic proteins (bison, venison) at a surprisingly accessible price point. The grain-free formula suits dogs with sensitivities, though the FDA's ongoing DCM investigation into grain-free diets is worth monitoring. Excellent safety record and strong value for a novel-protein food.

Strengths

  • Novel protein sources (roasted bison, roasted venison) ideal for dogs with common allergies
  • Grain-free formula with sweet potatoes and peas as carb sources
  • Clean safety record with zero recalls in 5+ years

Limitations

  • Grain-free formulas have been investigated by FDA for potential DCM links
  • Bison and venison are listed but meal forms provide the bulk of animal protein
  • Made by Diamond Pet Foods — shares manufacturing with budget brands

Ready to Get Started?

Orijen Original Grain-Free High-Protein dry dog food bag

Orijen Original

Score: 8.9
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe with Roasted Bison dry dog food bag

Taste of the Wild High Prairie

Score: 8.2