Over the past decade, the demand for ethical and sustainable products has significantly increased. And it's not just limited to human consumption — pet owners are also becoming more conscious about what they feed their furry companions.

In fact, 38% of pet owners in the U.S. prefer all-natural pet foods, and 79% would pay more for healthier dog food options.

With the global pet food industry responding to this growing demand, there has been a surge of ethical dog food options on the market. But how do you choose the right one for your pet? Here's everything you need to know.

When you think of ethical food, you may think of “organic,” “all-natural,” or “locally grown” produce. The same concept applies to ethical dog food. While the term “ethical” is somewhat subjective, in this context, It’s a type of pet food that is produced responsibly and sustainably, preserving the well-being of the animals, environment, and people involved in its production.

There are many facets that someone could consider to determine if they think a pet food is ethical. A few key characteristics of ethical and sustainable dog food production practices include:

• Use of human grade and whole food ingredients

• No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

• Responsibly sourced proteins from ethical farms and fisheries

• Use of organic or non-GMO ingredients

• Transparency in sourcing and production processes

• Biodegradable packaging materials

Unlike conventional commercial-grade pet food, ethical dog food focuses on the quality and sustainability of ingredients rather than just meeting nutritional requirements.

Manufacturers use high-quality, human grade ingredients that are free from harmful chemicals and additives. Ethical dog food also has a low carbon footprint, promotes fair trade practices, and supports animal welfare.

Aside from direct health benefits for your pet, there are many other advantages to choosing ethical dog food:

As highlighted earlier, a key focus of ethical dog food is the welfare of animals involved in the production process. Ethical dog food manufacturers prioritize the humane treatment of animals and avoid practices like factory farming.

Instead, they source their proteins from free range farms, where animals are allowed to roam and graze freely, promoting a better quality of life for the animals.

Unlike factory-farmed animals, free range animals are not subjected to overcrowded, unsanitary conditions and don’t receive growth hormones or antibiotics. Animals used in ethical dog food are treated with respect and compassion, resulting in happier and healthier animals.

Ethical food manufacturers employ production methods that have a lower environmental impact compared to those used in making conventional pet food. Organic and non-GMO ingredients reduce the use of harmful chemicals that pollute soil, air, and waterways.

Ethical dog food manufacturers also prioritize sustainable farming practices, such as crop rotation and composting, which protect biodiversity, reduce carbon emissions, and conserve water.

The packaging used for ethical dog food is also eco-friendly, often made from recyclable materials and without excessive plastic or wasteful packaging that ends up in landfills.

Another good thing about ethical dog food brands is that they value transparency and honesty when it comes to the sourcing and production of their products. Ethical pet food brands openly share information about where their ingredients come from, the production methods used, and any certifications or testing that is done.

This level of transparency builds trust with customers, who can feel confident that they are feeding their pets high-quality and ethically made food. It can lead to long-term loyalty and satisfaction, as dog owners can be sure that they are doing the best for their furry companions.

Walking down the pet food aisle, you may feel overwhelmed by the variety and choices of dog food available. If you are looking to switch to ethical dog food, here are some key things to consider.

When you know where and how the ingredients are sourced, it’s easier to ensure your dog’s food is high-quality and nutritious.

You may choose to consider brands that use locally sourced, organic ingredients to support sustainable and ethical farming practices. Locally sourced ingredients also mean that the food is fresher and has a lower carbon footprint, as it doesn't have to travel long distances to reach your home.

Also look for characteristics like:

• Human grade ingredients from whole-food sources like sweet potato, veggies, and animal- and plant-based protein

• Humane animal treatment, such as free range, open-farm, and grass-fed or pasture-raised

• Industry certifications like American Humane Certified and MSC Certified (for sustainable seafood)

• Environmental initiatives like using solar energy, regenerative farming, and composting

• Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

You may also want to avoid foods made in or containing ingredients from countries with lax standards or a history of food recalls, such as China.

Ethical food production practices go hand in hand with ingredient sourcing. Typically, ethical dog food manufacturers prioritize sustainable and humane production methods that support animal welfare and environmental sustainability. This includes:

• Using low-stress processing methods, such as cold pressing, roasting, and dehydration, to preserve the nutritional value and flavor of the ingredients

• Avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals, preservatives, and fillers that can harm your pet's health

• Ensuring safe handling and storage of ingredients to prevent contamination

• Regularly testing for safety and quality assurance, including testing for harmful substances like heavy metals and bacteria

Look for brands with certifications that ensure high standards for ethical and sustainable production methods, such as USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Global Animal Partnership (GAP) certification.

Companies with transparent practices and strong ethical values often have a mission beyond just selling pet food. They strive to make a positive impact on the world and give back to their communities by:

• Donating a portion of their profits to animal welfare organizations and other charitable causes

• Partnering with shelters and rescue organizations to provide food for homeless pets

• Supporting sustainable and ethical farming initiatives through their sourcing practices

• Advocating for animal welfare and sustainable living through education and awareness campaigns

• Using eco-friendly and recyclable packaging to reduce their carbon footprint

• Becoming B Corp certified, which means they meet rigorous standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency

These initiatives can help you feel good about your purchases, knowing that they are supporting a company that aligns with your own values.

The Honest Kitchen stands out for its unwavering commitment to ethical sourcing and manufacturing. Our brand is built on the belief that our pets deserve healthy, nutritious food made from high-quality ingredients that are ethically sourced and produced.

We prioritize transparency in all aspects of our business, from ingredient sourcing to production methods. As a certified B Corp, we hold ourselves to high ethical standards and continuously strive to make a positive impact on the world.

Our products are made from whole, human grade ingredients, with aromas and flavors that will have your dog drooling. We are proud to say that all of our products align with ethical standards and are USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. Our packaging is eco-friendly and 100% recyclable, reducing our carbon footprint and waste.

The Honest Kitchen offers a full selection of ethical dog food, including:

• Whole Grain Dry Dog Food Clusters

• Grain Free Dry Dog Food Clusters

• Butcher Block Pâté Wet Food

These delicious, human grade, and minimally processed dog food options make it easy to maintain a healthy diet for your pup that aligns with your personal ethical standards.

Ethical dog food is the best choice for your furry friend and the planet. When choosing a dog food brand, prioritize ingredient sourcing, manufacturing practices, and company values. This helps you ensure that your pet is getting the highest quality nutrition while also supporting companies that make a positive impact.

The Honest Kitchen is a leading ethical dog food brand committed to transparency, sustainability, and animal welfare. Our products are made with human grade ingredients from ethical sources, and we always use sustainable production methods.

Shop the full selection of delicious and nutritious ethical  dog food options.

*Health Disclaimer: This post is educational in nature and doesn’t constitute health advice. Please consult your pet's veterinarian or other healthcare professional for specific guidance on this topic.