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USDA Certified Organic Dog Food: What It Means and Why It Matters

When it comes to feeding your dog, quality starts at the source. USDA certified organic dog food is made with ingredients that meet strict federal guidelines for how they’re grown, raised, and processed. That includes no synthetic pesticides, no antibiotics, and no genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

But USDA Organic certification isn’t just about what’s removed—it’s about what’s protected. Clean, whole ingredients. Higher animal welfare standards. And traceability from farm to bowl.

At Tender & True, we take that certification seriously. Every organic recipe we offer meets USDA Organic standards, so you can feel confident about what’s going into your dog’s bowl—every single time.

Understanding the USDA Organic Label

Not all “organic” claims mean the same thing. The USDA Organic seal guarantees that at least 95% of the ingredients are certified organic. That means:

  • No synthetic fertilizers or chemical pesticides
  • No antibiotics or growth hormones
  • No GMOs
  • Animals raised on certified organic farms with access to the outdoors
  • Transparent supply chains with third-party verification

When you see the USDA Organic seal on Tender & True packaging, it’s not a marketing claim—it’s a legally regulated certification backed by our supply chain, farming partners, and formulation process.

Benefits of Feeding USDA Certified Organic Dog Food

Choosing USDA certified organic dog food means feeding with intention and confidence. Benefits include:

  • Clean ingredient profiles – With fewer additives and no artificial preservatives
  • Trusted sourcing – Ingredients come from certified organic farms and fisheries
  • Better digestion – No fillers, by-products, or common allergens like corn, wheat, or soy
  • Naturally nutrient-rich – Organic ingredients are grown in healthier soil and harvested for peak nutrition

It’s why many pet parents looking for the best natural dog food turn to certified organic options—they want real food, responsibly made.

What Sets Tender & True Apart

Tender & True was the first brand to offer a complete line of USDA certified organic dog food nationwide. That commitment to better sourcing, better standards, and better nutrition drives every recipe we create.

Our formulas are developed with veterinarians and meet AAFCO requirements for complete and balanced nutrition. But what truly sets us apart is our dedication to transparency—knowing where every ingredient comes from, how it was grown, and how it supports your dog’s health.

Whether you're feeding a small puppy, a senior dog, or anything in between, we offer options that combine organic dog food standards with functional nutrition.

Inside the Bag: Organic Proteins and Real Ingredients

Our USDA Organic dry food recipes start with premium animal proteins like organic chicken and organic turkey—always the first ingredient. We pair these with organic vegetables and whole grains, never including corn, soy, or wheat.

You won’t find artificial flavors, preservatives, or fillers in any of our organic recipes. That’s because we believe all natural organic dog food should mean what it says: clean, simple, and responsibly made.

Explore some of our best-selling options:

Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe – Made with organic chicken as the first ingredient and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals

Organic Turkey & Liver Recipe – A high-protein formula with organic turkey and nutrient-rich liver

Small Breed Organic Chicken Recipe – Specially designed kibble size for small dogs, with organic chicken and no artificial ingredients

Small Breed Organic Turkey & Oats Recipe – Gentle on digestion, complete for everyday feeding, made with ancient grains and organic turkey

Each product is made with care, ensuring your dog gets the cleanest version of food possible—without sacrificing taste or balance.

Why Organic Matters for Small Breeds, Too

Small dogs often have big nutritional needs. From higher metabolisms to sensitive digestive systems, they benefit from food that’s thoughtfully crafted. That’s why our USDA Organic small breed recipes focus on:

  • Smaller kibble size for easier chewing
  • Balanced fat and protein levels to support energy
  • Certified organic ingredients to avoid fillers and unnecessary additives

For small breed pet parents looking for the best natural dog food, these recipes offer tailored nutrition with a certified organic edge.

Certifications That Back It Up

At Tender & True, we don’t ask you to take our word for it. Our recipes are certified by respected third-party organizations:

  • USDA Organic – Government-regulated, third-party verified
  • Global Animal Partnership (G.A.P.) – Ensures animal welfare standards at the farm level
  • Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) – Sustainable fishing practices for recipes with seafood
  • AAFCO Nutritional Standards – Guaranteed complete and balanced

These certifications ensure we deliver organic dog food that meets your expectations—because we hold ourselves to them every step of the way.

Certified to Care

Choosing USDA certified organic dog food is more than a label—it’s a commitment to better ingredients, cleaner nutrition, and a healthier future for your pet.

At Tender & True, we believe food should be as thoughtfully made as it is transparently labeled. That’s why we were pioneers in bringing certified organic dog food to stores nationwide, and why we continue to raise the bar in responsible sourcing.

Whether you’re switching to organic for the first time or expanding your current feeding plan, you can count on Tender & True for food that supports your dog’s health with integrity, clarity, and purpose.

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