Organic September: The Problems with Feeding Organic Dog Food
Each September, the UK marks Organic September, a campaign that shines a light on organic living and the choices we make as consumers. While most of the focus is on human diets, many homeowners are also exploring whether feeding organic dog food is a better option. But is organic feeding for dogs really as straightforward as it sounds?
The Challenges of Organic Dog Food
Switching your dog to an organic diet may sound like the natural choice, but there are hidden problems that homeowners need to consider.
Firstly, the cost. According to Euromonitor International, the UK pet food market is worth over £3.5 billion, with premium and organic options growing fastest. However, these products can be 30–60% more expensive than conventional dog foods. For multi-pet households, this can quickly add up.
Availability is another issue. While supermarkets stock a range of organic items for humans, organic pet food is often harder to find, meaning homeowners may need to shop online or in specialist stores.
The Human Element
Dog owners are understandably keen to give their pets the best, but feeding organic can sometimes create more stress than comfort. Pet owners report feelings of guilt if they cannot always afford organic options — echoing the same pressures humans face during Organic September.
What’s more, there is still a lack of long-term research into whether organic diets lead to significantly better health outcomes for pets. The British Veterinary Association has noted that balanced nutrition matters more than organic certification when it comes to canine wellbeing. This can leave owners feeling uncertain about whether their efforts are making a meaningful difference.
Technical Problems
Feeding dogs organically also comes with practical challenges.
-
Shorter shelf life: Without artificial preservatives, some organic pet foods spoil more quickly once opened.
-
Nutritional balance: Not all organic recipes are complete diets — some may lack essential vitamins and minerals unless carefully supplemented.
-
Labelling confusion: Just as with human food, the term “organic” can vary in its meaning, especially with imported products.
DEFRA found that organic livestock farming can result in 20–30% lower yields, which pushes up costs and can limit supply. For pet food manufacturers, that often means smaller production runs and less choice on the shelf.
Where Poop Patrol Fits In
At Poop Patrol, we know your dog’s health is central to your household — and we also know what goes in must come out! Whether you choose an organic diet or a standard one, our services ensure your garden stays clean, safe, and usable for the whole family.