Orijen and Blue Buffalo Wilderness both target owners seeking high-protein, meat-focused nutrition. But they differ significantly in quality, approach, and price. Here's how they compare.
Brand Overview
Orijen
- Manufacturer: Champion Petfoods
- Philosophy: "Biologically Appropriate" - mirrors wild diet
- Position: Ultra-premium
- Price Point: $$$$
- Meat Content: 85% animal ingredients
Blue Buffalo Wilderness
- Manufacturer: General Mills
- Philosophy: High-protein, grain-free inspired by wild diet
- Position: Premium
- Price Point: $$$
- Approach: Natural ingredients, LifeSource Bits
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Orijen | Blue Buffalo Wilderness |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Price (24-25 lb) | $85-100 | $65-75 |
| Protein | 38-42% | 32-36% |
| Animal Content | 85% | ~60-70% |
| Made in | USA/Canada | USA |
| Fresh Meat Focus | Yes (specific ratios) | Standard |
Ingredient Philosophy
Orijen
- 85% animal ingredients, 15% vegetables/botanicals
- WholePrey ratios (meat, organs, cartilage)
- 2/3 fresh or raw ingredients
- Single kitchen production
- Minimal processing
- No plant proteins for padding
Blue Buffalo Wilderness
- High protein with real meat first
- LifeSource Bits (vitamins, antioxidants)
- No poultry by-products
- Natural ingredients focus
- May include pea protein
- Standard kibble processing
Nutritional Comparison
Protein
- Orijen: 38-42%
- Wilderness: 32-36%
- Orijen significantly higher
Fat
- Orijen: 18-20%
- Wilderness: 14-18%
- Orijen higher
Carbohydrates
- Orijen: ~15% (very low)
- Wilderness: ~25-30%
- Orijen is more meat-focused
Protein Source Difference
- Orijen: All from animal sources
- Wilderness: May include plant proteins (peas)
Product Lines
Orijen
- Original
- Six Fish
- Regional Red
- Tundra
- Puppy/Senior
- Fit & Trim
Blue Buffalo Wilderness
- Chicken
- Salmon
- Duck
- Rocky Mountain (red meats)
- Small Breed/Large Breed
- Puppy/Adult/Senior
Blue Buffalo offers more variety; Orijen focuses on core excellence.
Price Comparison
Per 24-25 lb Bag
- Orijen: $85-100
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness: $65-75
Orijen costs approximately 30-40% more.
Quality Comparison
Manufacturing
- Orijen: Champion Petfoods' own facilities, single kitchen approach
- Wilderness: Various manufacturing facilities
Ingredients
- Orijen: Fresh/raw meat emphasis, specific sourcing
- Wilderness: Quality ingredients but standard sourcing
Research
- Orijen: Biologically Appropriate philosophy, feeding trials
- Wilderness: General Mills resources, standard formulation
Grain-Free Considerations
Both are primarily grain-free brands:
- FDA has investigated grain-free/DCM connection
- Both brands mentioned in FDA reports
- Consider grain-inclusive alternatives
- Consult your veterinarian
Who Should Choose Each
Choose Orijen If:
- You want maximum meat content
- Budget allows ultra-premium
- Your dog is very active
- You prioritize fresh/raw ingredients
- Quality is the only consideration
Choose Blue Buffalo Wilderness If:
- You want high protein at better value
- LifeSource Bits appeal to you
- More variety is important
- Good quality is sufficient
- Brand recognition matters
Our Verdict
For Premium Quality
Orijen is superior in:
- Meat content
- Ingredient quality
- Manufacturing standards
- Nutritional profile
For Value
Blue Buffalo Wilderness offers:
- Good high-protein option
- Better price point
- More variety
- Widely available
The Honest Assessment
Orijen is objectively higher quality. Whether it's worth 35-40% more depends on your priorities and budget. Most dogs do well on either, but Orijen offers genuinely superior nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Orijen really that much better?
Yes, in terms of ingredient quality and meat content. Whether your dog needs that level of nutrition depends on activity level and individual needs. It's definitely higher quality; whether it's necessary varies by dog.
Why is Orijen so expensive?
Fresh/raw meat is expensive. 85% animal ingredients cost more than 60-70%. Champion's single-kitchen approach and quality sourcing add costs. You're paying for genuinely premium ingredients.
Which is better for allergies?
Orijen's purity (no plant proteins padding) may be better for sensitive dogs. However, both are grain-free which has its own concerns. For true allergies, consult your vet about appropriate options.
Are these safe given grain-free concerns?
Both have been mentioned in FDA DCM investigations. Consider grain-inclusive alternatives from established brands. If choosing grain-free, these are quality options, but discuss with your veterinarian.
My dog does well on Wilderness. Should I upgrade to Orijen?
If thriving, no need to change. Orijen is higher quality but not necessary if your dog is healthy. Consider switching only if seeking improvement or your dog's needs change.