Healthy Naturals: What “Natural” Really Means on Dog Food Labels

Published Date: 5/8/2025
Healthy Naturals: What Makes a Dog Food 'Natural'?

You’ve seen it a hundred times—dog food labeled as “natural.” It sounds reassuring, but what does “natural” really mean when it comes to your dog’s nutrition? Understanding this term can help you make better choices for your pet’s health and avoid being misled by marketing fluff.

What Does “Natural” Mean in Dog Food?
According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), “natural” pet food must be made without chemically synthetic ingredients—except for added vitamins and minerals. This means no artificial flavors, dyes, or chemical preservatives. However, that doesn’t automatically mean a product is balanced or of high nutritional value—it just excludes certain types of additives.

What’s Actually in Natural Dog Food?
True natural dog foods feature real, whole ingredients such as named meats (like chicken, beef, or salmon), fruits, vegetables, and sometimes whole grains. Instead of synthetic preservatives, they may use natural ones like tocopherols (a source of vitamin E). These foods aim to keep ingredients recognizable and close to their original state, making them gentler on digestion and less likely to cause allergic reactions.

How to Choose the Right Natural Dog Food
Even if a product is labeled “natural,” that doesn’t guarantee it’s nutritionally complete. Always look for the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement to ensure the food meets your dog’s dietary needs. Seek out short ingredient lists with real, whole foods, and choose trusted brands that are transparent about their sourcing and production. “Natural” is a good start—but informed label reading is key.

Takeaway
The word “natural” means fewer synthetic ingredients—but not necessarily balanced nutrition. Look for real foods, AAFCO compliance, and ingredient transparency to make the healthiest choice for your dog.