Who Owns Orijen Dog Food? My Honest Take After the Buyout
Ever wonder who owns Orijen dog food now? I sure did. I used to buy Orijen because it seemed fresh, rich in protein, and made with real meat. But then I learned that Orijen was bought by Mars, the same company behind Pedigree. That made me pause.
In this article, I’ll break down who makes Orijen, how Champion Petfoods fits in, and what this means for your dog. I’ll also share my own story, plus good food brands like Orijen that I’ve tried. Stick around—and feel free to share your thoughts too!
A Quick Look at Orijen Dog Food
I started using Orijen dog food a few years ago when my vet recommended a high-protein diet for my active Labrador, Max. At first, I felt overwhelmed by all the choices. But Orijen caught my eye. The first bag I picked up listed real chicken, turkey, and even eggs—things I’d actually cook at home. That made me feel like I was giving Max real food, not a bunch of fillers.
Orijen follows a “whole prey” approach. They use not just meat, but also organs and cartilage, like how dogs would eat in the wild. It sounded odd at first, but it made sense. The food is full of protein and natural nutrients. After switching, I noticed Max’s coat looked shinier, and he had more energy during our morning walks.
One of my first questions was: Where is Orijen dog food made? That really mattered to me. Orijen makes its food in its own kitchens. They started in Alberta, Canada, and later opened another kitchen in Kentucky. They control every step—no outsourcing, no surprises. That gave me peace of mind.
So, is Orijen different from other dog foods? Yes, absolutely. It feels like a farm-to-bowl meal. Sure, it costs more. But you’re getting clean ingredients, honest labels, and a recipe that fits what dogs are meant to eat.
Who Owns Orijen Dog Food Now?
When I first learned that Orijen was no longer an independent brand, I honestly felt a bit uneasy. I’d always seen Orijen as a small, high-quality company doing things differently. But now, Orijen is owned by Mars, Inc.—yes, the same Mars that makes candy and also owns big pet food brands like Pedigree. That caught me off guard.
The story goes like this: Orijen and Acana were both created by Champion Petfoods, a company based in Canada. They focused on using real meat, fresh ingredients, and a “whole prey” approach to feeding dogs. But in 2023, Champion Petfoods was bought by Mars Petcare. So if you’re wondering who owns Orijen dog food now, it’s Mars—and by extension, the same company behind a large chunk of the pet food aisle.
Mars Petcare isn’t just a side branch of a candy company—it’s a major force in the pet world. They own over 50 pet brands, including Royal Canin, Iams, and Greenies. They also run vet clinics, animal hospitals, and even pet nutrition research centers. So if you’re asking who owns the Orijen dog food company, it’s now part of a much bigger picture.
That shift made me wonder if the quality might change over time. So far, Orijen still seems to use the same high standards and ingredients. But with a company as big as Mars behind the scenes, I do keep an eye on things. Transparency, after all, is one of the main reasons I trusted Orijen in the first place.
The Champion Petfoods Story
Before Mars ever entered the picture, Orijen had roots in a small Canadian company called Champion Petfoods LP. I remember reading the back of the bag when I first bought Orijen for Max and feeling good about supporting a brand that started in Alberta, Canada. It wasn’t some faceless giant—it felt local, grounded, and genuinely committed to making better food for pets.
Champion Petfoods was founded in the 1980s and spent decades building its reputation around quality. Their mission? Craft biologically appropriate dog food with fresh regional ingredients. They didn’t just make Orijen; they also created Acana, another well-known name in the premium dog food world. If you’ve ever compared the two, you know they’re both a step above most of what you find in stores. Champion Petfoods became known for putting ingredient quality and pet health first, long before it was trendy.
What really set Champion apart was its hands-on approach. Instead of outsourcing manufacturing like many big-name pet brands, they made their food in their own kitchens—first in Canada, and later in Kentucky. This gave them tight control over everything, from sourcing to cooking. That’s part of why I trusted them. When you’re feeding a dog like Max—who’ll eat anything, but deserves the best—knowing where the food comes from matters.
So, who owns Champion Petfoods now? That’s where the story shifts. In 2023, Champion Petfoods was bought by Mars Petcare, which means Orijen and Acana are now part of a much bigger family. It was a big change—and not without mixed feelings for pet owners like me. The small company that Champion had is now woven into a global network of brands. If you’re searching for who owns Champion Pet Foods today, the answer is clear: Mars, Inc., the same company behind names like Royal Canin and Pedigree.
Still, it’s worth remembering how Champion built its name. From its founding in Canada to creating two of the most respected dog food brands around, Champion Petfoods LP raised the bar. Whether that bar stays high under Mars is something many of us are watching closely.
What’s the Difference? (Orijen vs. Acana and More)
When people ask, “What’s the difference between Acana and Orijen?” the answer is pretty simple. Orijen packs in more meat and protein, while Acana feels a bit lighter and more balanced. Both come from Champion Petfoods—now under Mars Petcare—and both offer high-quality ingredients. But they serve different dogs with different needs.
Orijen follows a “whole prey” idea. It uses fresh meat, organs, bones, and cartilage—kind of like what wild dogs would eat. You’ll often see the first 8 to 10 ingredients come from animal sources, many of them raw or fresh. This adds up to about 85–90% animal content, which makes Orijen perfect for high-energy dogs who burn a lot of fuel.
Acana, on the other hand, still uses a meat-first approach but leans a little more on plants. Ingredients like lentils, pumpkin, and oats balance out the formula. It usually contains 60–70% animal ingredients, which makes it easier on the tummy. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or doesn’t need a super-rich diet, Acana might be the better choice.
I’ve used both for Max, my Labrador. When he was a puppy, I started with Acana. It had clean ingredients and didn’t upset his stomach. Later, when Max grew into a more active adult—especially after we started hiking on weekends—I switched him to Orijen. His energy spiked, and his coat got glossier fast. Honestly, it felt like feeding him a steak dinner every night. But it’s rich, no doubt. When Max got a stomach bug last year, I eased him back onto Acana, and it helped settle things.
Now? We mostly stick with Orijen. Max thrives on it. But I still keep Acana in the mix. I use it when he’s recovering or when I want to rotate proteins. It’s been a great combo for us.
And if you’re wondering who owns Acana or Orijen, the answer is Mars, Inc. They bought Champion Petfoods in 2023. That means both brands—Orijen and Acana—now sit under the Mars Petcare umbrella, alongside big names like Pedigree. That made me nervous, too. I worried about ingredient changes or shortcuts. But so far, both brands still list whole, real ingredients. They’re still made in Champion’s kitchens in Canada and Kentucky. And no, Mars hasn’t changed Orijen’s formula—at least not yet. I still double-check labels, just to be safe.
So, which food should you pick? If your dog is super active and needs more protein, Orijen is probably the better fit. If they have a sensitive stomach or if you’re looking for a slightly more affordable choice, Acana is a fantastic option. I’ve seen great results from both, and switching between them has worked well for Max based on his activity and health.
At the end of the day, both are top-tier choices. It just depends on what your dog needs. The best part? You don’t have to settle for filler or mystery meat. These brands give your dog real food—and that’s what matters most.
Mars Petcare – Who Are They & What Do They Own?
So, who owns Orijen dog food now? Short answer: Mars, Inc., the same company behind Pedigree and Royal Canin. Yeah, I was surprised too. I used to think of Mars as just a candy giant, but it turns out they’ve quietly built one of the biggest empires in the pet food world. And now, Orijen is part of that empire.
Mars Petcare is the pet food and veterinary division of Mars, Inc., and they’re not just dipping their toes into the industry—they’re running the whole show. They own over 50 pet care brands, including household names like Pedigree, Iams, Greenies, and Royal Canin. If you’ve ever walked through the pet aisle at a grocery store or big-box retailer, chances are at least half of what you see comes from Mars.
When I first heard that Orijen was bought by Mars, I wasn’t sure how to feel. I’ve always trusted Orijen because it felt personal—high-protein, thoughtfully made, and not mass-produced. So learning that Mars, the same company that owns Pedigree, now owns Orijen dog food, definitely made me pause. It felt like a local bakery getting bought by a global fast-food chain. You wonder: Will the recipes change? Will they start cutting corners?
To be fair, Mars Petcare does more than just sell food. They also own AniCura clinics across the globe. They’re deeply involved in pet health and nutrition, running research centers like the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. That gave me some peace of mind—at least they’re not guessing when it comes to dog food science.
Still, I keep asking: What does Mars own when it comes to pet food brands? Basically, if it’s a big name, they probably own it. That includes everything from grocery-store staples like Pedigree to vet-recommended formulas like Royal Canin. And now, with the Orijen Mars deal, they’ve added premium, meat-first brands like Orijen and Acana to their lineup.
I’ll be honest, knowing that the same company owns both Pedigree and Orijen still makes me cautious. It’s not that Pedigree is bad, but it’s just not in the same league as Orijen in terms of ingredients or philosophy. That’s why I always check the label, even now. So far, nothing’s changed—Orijen still lists fresh, whole meats and avoids the fillers I try to steer clear of. But if that ever changes, I want to be the first to know.
So, who owns Mars Petcare? It’s part of Mars, Inc., a privately held family-owned company. No shareholders, no quarterly earnings calls. Just a lot of power behind the scenes. That’s what makes it tricky—they’re not transparent in the same way a public company might be. But at the same time, that independence may help them focus long-term on quality—if they choose to.
In the end, the Mars acquisition of Orijen isn’t necessarily bad—it just changes the context. You’re no longer buying from a small Canadian company; you’re buying from a global powerhouse with massive influence in the pet world. That doesn’t mean the food isn’t good. It just means we, as dog owners, need to stay informed, read ingredients, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
Is Orijen Still Good After Mars Bought It?
When I found out that Mars bought Orijen, I was a little worried. Mars makes candy and big pet food brands like Pedigree. Orijen always felt like a top-notch brand, and I didn’t want that to change.
So, is Orijen still good after the Mars buyout?
Yes—so far, it still looks and feels like the same high-quality dog food.
No Recalls = Big Peace of Mind
I looked into Orijen’s recall history. Guess what? No recalls in the U.S. or Canada—ever. The only one was in 2008 for cat food in Australia. That’s it.
That tells me they’re still doing things right.
Still Clear About Ingredients
Orijen has always been open about what’s in their food. They use fresh meat from trusted sources. Even now, they share where their ingredients come from and how the food is made. That hasn’t changed.
Why I Still Feed It to My Dog
After Mars took over, I watched closely. Max still loves the food. His coat is shiny. He has energy. He looks great. The food looks and smells the same too.
So yes—I still trust Orijen.
Mars may own them now, but the food hasn’t changed for the worse. Max is doing well, and that’s what matters to me.
Is Orijen Actually Good for Dogs?
In short? Yes—Orijen is widely considered one of the best dry dog foods you can buy. But like any dog food, it depends on your dog’s individual needs. Let’s break down why so many vets, breeders, and picky pet parents trust it—and when it might not be the best fit.
What makes Orijen stand out? It’s the ingredient quality and protein content. Orijen formulas are rich in real meat, often making up 85–90% of the recipe. That includes a mix of fresh, raw, and dried meats, often with organ meats and bone—just like a dog would naturally eat in the wild. This “whole prey” approach gives dogs more natural nutrients without needing a bunch of synthetic additives.
Plus, it’s grain-free (in most recipes) and skips cheap fillers like corn, wheat, soy, or meat by-products. That’s a big win if your dog has sensitivities.
But here’s the key: Orijen is high in protein and fat. That’s great for active dogs, growing puppies, and breeds with high energy needs. But if your dog is older, has kidney issues, or is a couch potato (no judgment), it might be too rich. You’ll want to ease into it and watch for any digestive upset.
The verdict? Orijen is one of the cleanest, most protein-rich kibble options on the market. But it’s not “one-size-fits-all.” It’s ideal for dogs who thrive on a meat-based, high-protein diet—but always talk to your vet if your dog has special health needs.
FAQs About Orijen, Acana, and Champion Petfoods
Who makes Orijen dog food?
Orijen is made by Champion Petfoods, a company based in Canada. They’ve built their name around high-protein, fresh-ingredient dog food. I remember switching to Orijen after a friend raved about it. The quality was clear right from the start—my dog’s coat got shinier, and his energy improved.
Who owns Orijen dog food now?
Orijen is now owned by Mars, Inc. Yes, the same company that makes candy also owns a bunch of pet food brands. They bought Champion Petfoods in 2023. At first, I was a little unsure. Big companies don’t always mean better. But for now, the food still feels like the Orijen I’ve trusted for years.
Where is Orijen dog food made?
Orijen is made in two places—Alberta, Canada, and Kentucky, USA. I love that they’re open about where they make the food. I checked out their site and saw photos of the kitchens. It’s clear they take pride in clean spaces and real ingredients. That helped me feel good about what I was feeding my dog.
Is Orijen better than Acana?
Orijen and Acana both come from Champion Petfoods, but they aren’t quite the same. Orijen has more protein and more meat. Acana is a bit simpler and easier on the stomach. I’ve tried both. Orijen worked better for my active dog, but I recommend Acana if your pup needs something milder.
Did Mars change the Orijen formula?
So far, there’s no proof that Mars changed the Orijen recipe. But I get why people worry. When a big company buys a brand, changes often follow. I haven’t noticed a difference with my dog, but some folks online say their pets didn’t react well. If you’re switching to Orijen now, just keep an eye out.
Is Orijen worth the price?
Orijen costs more than many other dog foods. Still, I think it’s worth it. When I feed my dog Orijen, I see real results—better energy, better digestion, and fewer vet visits. If you can swing it, it’s a strong choice. But if not, there are other great foods out there with similar ingredients.
What company owns Champion Petfoods?
Champion Petfoods is now part of Mars Petcare. Before the buyout, they were independent. Now they sit under the same umbrella as brands like Pedigree and Royal Canin. That shift worries some pet owners, but the core of Champion still seems intact. Time will tell if that stays true.
Final Thoughts – Should You Still Trust Who Owns Orijen Dog Food?
Yes, I still trust Orijen dog food—but with an open eye.
When Mars bought Orijen, I was worried. Big companies sometimes cut corners to save money. But so far, Orijen still looks and smells like the food my dog has loved for years. His coat is soft, his energy’s up, and I’ve seen no signs of change in quality.
Orijen remains a high-protein, premium dog food—even after being bought by Mars.
That said, I keep checking the label and reviews, just in case. One thing I’ve learned? Even the best brands can shift when ownership changes. Staying informed helps me make the best choice for my pup.
When choosing any premium dog food, don’t just fall for buzzwords.
Look at the first five ingredients. Are they real meats or vague “meal blends”? Read up on the brand’s recalls and sourcing. Trust your gut and your dog’s reaction. I once tried a “top-rated” brand that upset my dog’s stomach—glowing reviews aren’t everything. Trust what you see in your dog.
Corporate takeovers don’t always mean bad news—but they do mean change.
Sometimes it’s small. Sometimes it’s a full shift in values. So while I still feed Orijen, I also stay open to change. If the quality ever dips, I won’t hesitate to move on. I love my dog too much to stick with a brand just out of habit.
In the end, the bag on your shelf matters less than how your dog feels.
If Orijen keeps working for your dog like it has for mine—great. If not, there are other good options out there. Your pup’s health is the real goal. And for now, Orijen still earns a spot in my home.
Taslima Akter Sumaiya is a passionate pet mom and founder of PetFoodHubing.com. With real-life experience and insights inspired by USDA-ARS experts like Dr. Jitender P. Dubey, she writes honest, research-backed reviews to help dog and cat parents choose the best food. Trust her to simplify pet nutrition—with love and science. Read More…
