Sustainable Dog Food: 5 Best Brands Reviewed for 2024

Your dog’s dinner bowl might seem like a small thing, but sustainable dog food choices can make a massive difference for the planet—and your pup’s health. Gone are the days when pet nutrition meant choosing between what’s good for Fido and what’s good for Mother Earth. Today’s best sustainable dog food brands prove you don’t have to compromise.

Let’s be real: most of us want our dogs to thrive while also feeling good about our environmental footprint. The problem? Wading through marketing claims, greenwashing, and endless product options feels like herding cats (no offense to cat lovers). That’s why we’ve dug deep into the sustainable dog food market to bring you the real deal—brands that actually walk the walk, not just talk the talk.

Why Sustainable Dog Food Actually Matters

Before we jump into the best brands, let’s talk about why sustainable dog food isn’t just trendy—it’s necessary. The pet food industry generates roughly 64 million tons of greenhouse gases annually. That’s right: your dog’s kibble has a carbon footprint bigger than most people’s cars.

Sustainable dog food options address this by using responsibly sourced ingredients, reducing waste, and often incorporating rotating protein sources that don’t strip the planet bare. When you choose eco-friendly dog food, you’re voting with your wallet for a better future. Plus, these foods often contain higher-quality ingredients, which means better digestion, shinier coats, and fewer vet visits for your furry friend.

What Makes Dog Food Actually Sustainable?

Not all dog food claiming to be “green” is created equal. Real sustainable dog food checks several boxes:

• Responsible sourcing: Ingredients come from suppliers with ethical practices and minimal environmental impact.
• Minimal packaging waste: Recyclable or compostable materials instead of plastic mountains.
• Ethical protein choices: Fish from sustainable fisheries, humanely raised meat, or alternative proteins like insects and legumes.
• Carbon-neutral operations: Companies that offset their emissions or use renewable energy.
• Transparency: You can actually trace where ingredients come from (not a mystery meat situation).

The best sustainable dog food brands don’t just slap a green label on old formulas. They fundamentally rethink how dog nutrition works while respecting planetary boundaries.

Brand #1: Nom Nom – Fresh, Sustainable Excellence

Nom Nom has become a darling of the sustainable dog food world, and for good reason. This brand uses fresh food feeding routines with locally sourced, human-grade ingredients whenever possible.

What sets them apart: Nom Nom partners with local farms and suppliers, reducing transportation emissions significantly. Their recipes rotate seasonal ingredients, supporting sustainable agriculture practices. The packaging? Recyclable and compostable. They’re transparent about sourcing (you can literally see where your chicken comes from), and they offer pet food transition schedules to help your dog adjust smoothly.

The downside: Fresh food isn’t cheap. Expect to pay premium prices, though many owners argue the health benefits justify the cost. Plus, you’ll need freezer space and a bit of meal-planning discipline.

Brand #2: Ollie – Sustainability Meets Convenience

If fresh food sounds amazing but your life is chaos, Ollie bridges the gap between sustainable dog food and actual convenience. They use human-grade ingredients from certified suppliers and deliver fresh meals right to your door in insulated packaging.

Ollie’s sustainability credentials include: partnerships with regenerative farms, minimal plastic packaging, carbon-neutral shipping, and recipes developed with veterinary nutritionists. They’re also transparent about their supply chain, and their meals are gently cooked (not processed to death like traditional kibble).

The catch: Like Nom Nom, price is steep, and delivery logistics mean this won’t work everywhere. But if you’re serious about sustainable dog food without the DIY hassle, Ollie delivers.

Brand #3: The Farmer’s Dog – Regenerative Agriculture Focus

The Farmer’s Dog takes sustainability seriously by partnering with regenerative farms that actually improve soil health and carbon sequestration. This is sustainable dog food with a mission.

Their approach: USDA-approved kitchens, human-grade ingredients, and a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint through regenerative agriculture partnerships. They also offer flexible subscription options and adolescent dog nutrition guidance tailored to your pup’s age and size.

What’s impressive: Their transparency reports actually show their environmental impact. They’re not hiding behind vague green claims. The meals are fresh, nutritionally balanced, and customizable based on your dog’s needs.

Reality check: Premium pricing applies here too. Fresh, sustainable dog food costs more because—surprise!—ethical sourcing and proper wages for workers actually cost money.

Brand #4: Sundays – Plant-Forward Sustainability

Sundays offers a unique angle on sustainable dog food by going plant-forward without being fully vegan. Their recipes include sustainable fish and responsibly raised poultry, balanced with nutrient-dense plants and supplements.

Why it’s sustainable: Sundays reduces reliance on factory-farmed meat, uses minimal packaging, partners with suppliers committed to environmental standards, and even donates a portion of proceeds to environmental organizations. They’re also affordable compared to other fresh-food options, making sustainable dog food more accessible.

The formula: Gently cooked, nutrient-dense, and designed by veterinary nutritionists to ensure your dog gets complete nutrition despite the plant-forward approach. Perfect for owners wanting to reduce their pet’s environmental impact without going full vegan.

Brand #5: Wild Earth – Insect Protein Innovation

If you want truly cutting-edge sustainable dog food, Wild Earth uses insect protein—specifically crickets and mealworms. Before you gag, hear us out: insects are the most sustainable protein source on the planet.

The sustainability story: Insects require 2,000x less water than beef, produce zero methane, and convert feed to protein 80x more efficiently than cattle. Wild Earth’s kibble is made from cricket flour and mealworm protein, combined with vegetables and probiotics. It’s not just sustainable—it’s revolutionary.

The reality: Your dog won’t care that their kibble contains insects. They’ll just know it tastes good and their digestion improves. The kibble is shelf-stable, affordable compared to fresh options, and genuinely reduces environmental impact. Some dogs with chicken sensitivities actually thrive on this.

Potential hesitation: The “eww, bugs” factor is real for humans, but nutritionally and environmentally, this is genius sustainable dog food.

How to Transition to Sustainable Dog Food

Found a sustainable dog food brand you love? Don’t just dump it in the bowl and hope for the best. Digestive systems need time to adjust. Most veterinarians recommend a 7-10 day transition, gradually mixing the new food with the old.

For fresh or gently cooked options, follow the brand’s specific guidelines (most provide detailed pet food transition schedules). Watch for signs of digestive upset: loose stools, vomiting, or unusual lethargy. If issues persist, consult your vet—sometimes dogs need longer transitions or different formulas.

Cost Considerations: Is Sustainable Dog Food Worth It?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: sustainable dog food costs more. A month of fresh sustainable dog food might run $200-400 depending on your dog’s size, while conventional kibble might cost $30-60.

But consider the full picture: Better nutrition often means fewer vet visits for digestive issues, allergies, or nutritional deficiencies. Healthier coats mean less grooming. Improved digestion means less poop to scoop (a genuine quality-of-life improvement). Many owners find the long-term health benefits justify the upfront cost.

Budget-conscious option: Mix sustainable brands with conventional kibble, or choose kibble-based sustainable options like Wild Earth instead of fresh food. Every step toward sustainable dog food helps.

Reading Labels: Greenwashing vs. Genuine Sustainability

The sustainable dog food market attracts greenwashing like a dog park attracts golden retrievers. Here’s how to spot the real deal:

• Vague claims: “Natural,” “eco-friendly,” and “green” mean nothing without specifics. Ignore them.
• Transparent sourcing: Real sustainable dog food brands tell you exactly where ingredients come from.
• Third-party certifications: Look for B Corp status, USDA organic, or other verified certifications.
• Detailed impact reports: Genuine brands publish their environmental impact and carbon footprint data.
• Supply chain transparency: Can you trace ingredients back to the source? If not, skip it.

Check out resources from the AAFCO to understand pet food regulations, or consult PetMD’s nutrition section for science-backed guidance on sustainable dog food choices.

Environmental Impact Beyond the Bag

Choosing sustainable dog food is step one. Consider the full picture of your dog’s environmental footprint: toys made from recycled materials, eco-friendly waste bags for poop (yes, this exists), and rotating protein sources even within brands to reduce monoculture farming.

Some sustainable dog food brands partner with organizations that plant trees for every purchase or donate to environmental causes. Every choice compounds. Your dog’s dinner bowl can genuinely make the world better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sustainable dog food actually better for my dog’s health?

Generally, yes. Sustainable dog food brands typically use higher-quality, less-processed ingredients with better nutritional profiles. This often translates to better digestion, healthier skin and coat, and more stable energy levels. That said, individual dogs have individual needs. Consult your vet before making major dietary changes, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or sensitivities.

Can I afford sustainable dog food on a tight budget?

Fresh, sustainable dog food is pricey, but you have options. Kibble-based sustainable brands like Wild Earth are much more affordable. You can also supplement conventional kibble with sustainable options, or mix sustainable brands strategically. Even partial switches toward sustainable dog food reduce your environmental impact.

Will my dog like sustainable dog food?

Most dogs love fresh, sustainable dog food because it actually tastes like food (not processed mystery meat). Even kibble-based sustainable options are formulated to be palatable. That said, some dogs are picky. Most brands offer trial sizes or satisfaction guarantees, so you can test before committing.

How do I know if a brand is genuinely sustainable?

Look for transparency. Real sustainable dog food brands publish detailed information about sourcing, environmental impact, and certifications. Check third-party reviews from veterinary nutritionists, not just marketing materials. Verify claims through independent sources like the B Corp directory if the brand claims that certification.

Is insect protein safe for dogs?

Absolutely. Insect protein is a complete protein source with all essential amino acids dogs need. It’s hypoallergenic, easily digestible, and actually more sustainable than any traditional protein. Dogs have no concept of “ew, bugs,” so they’re perfectly happy eating cricket flour.

Can I make sustainable dog food at home?

You can, but it requires serious nutritional knowledge. Homemade diets often lack essential nutrients like taurine, calcium, or specific vitamins unless you’re working with a veterinary nutritionist. If you want to go this route, consult AAFCO guidelines and ideally work with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to ensure your recipe is balanced.

Making the Switch: Your Action Plan

Ready to embrace sustainable dog food? Here’s your roadmap:

1. Research: Identify 2-3 brands that align with your values and budget.
2. Consult your vet: Discuss your dog’s specific nutritional needs and any health considerations.
3. Start small: Order a trial size or sample to test before committing.
4. Transition slowly: Use a 7-10 day transition period, following the brand’s guidelines.
5. Monitor: Watch for digestive changes, energy levels, and coat quality over 4-6 weeks.
6. Adjust as needed: Not every sustainable dog food brand works for every dog. Be willing to experiment.

The sustainable dog food movement is real, growing, and genuinely making a difference. Your dog gets better nutrition, and the planet gets some relief. That’s a win-win that deserves a celebratory tail wag.

Final Thoughts: Your Dog, Your Planet, Your Choice

Choosing sustainable dog food isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Whether you go fully fresh with Nom Nom, embrace insect protein with Wild Earth, or simply swap conventional kibble for a more sustainable option, you’re making a difference. Your dog deserves the best nutrition possible, and our planet deserves better than the status quo of industrial pet food production.

The five brands reviewed here represent different approaches to sustainable dog food, from fresh and local to innovative and plant-forward. The best choice depends on your dog’s needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. But whichever path you choose, you’re joining a movement toward more responsible pet nutrition.

Your dog will thank you with better health, more energy, and those adorable head tilts when dinner smells like actual food instead of processed mystery meat. And the planet will thank you too.