Orijen vs. Hill’s Science Diet: Which Dog Food Is Better?

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Trying to choose the right food for your dog? Two of the biggest names you’ll see are Hill’s Science Diet and Orijen. One relies on decades of veterinary science, while the other focuses on meat-rich, biologically appropriate recipes.

We compare recalls, ingredients, and formulas so you can decide which is the best fit because the right diet means more energy, a shinier coat, and a longer, happier life. Read on as we cover everything you need to know about these two brands in our battle of Orijen vs. Science Diet.

Best For Puppies	Best For Adults	Best For Seniors
Orijen Puppy	Orijen Original	Hill’s Science Diet 7+
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Brand Backstory: Science vs. Nature

A company’s history reveals what fuels its formulas, whether it’s decades of research or a “back to nature” approach. Let’s take a closer look.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s Science Diet dates back to the 1930s when veterinarian Dr. Mark Morris Sr. created a therapeutic diet for a German Shepherd suffering from kidney disease. Dr. Morris Sr. worked with his son, Mark Morris Jr., to take a new dog food line to market with recipes designed to treat specific health conditions.

Their work evolved into Hill’s Pet Nutrition, now owned by Colgate-Palmolive. Over time, Hill’s became one of the most widely available and veterinarian-recommended dog food brands in the world, known for formulas targeting specific life stages and health conditions.

Orijen

Orijen has taken the torch from companies like Science Diet in recent times, and for the last three decades, they’ve been producing incredibly nutritious dog and cat foods. Champion Pet Foods manufactures Orijen, and they maintain two production facilities, one in the United States and one in Canada.

Orijen operates by three guiding principles:

• Biologically appropriate recipes that reflect a dog’s natural carnivorous diet
• Regionally sourced ingredients from trusted farms and fisheries
• In-house manufacturing for quality control

Orijen’s commitment to quality products and regionally sourced ingredients has quickly made them a favorite among discerning dog owners who demand the best for their pets.

Recalls & Reputation: How Safe Are They?

Recalls are relatively common in the dog food industry, and they occur when a product doesn’t meet the company’s standards or when the U.S. Food & Drug Administration  (FDA) steps in and issues a recall of the product. How a company handles recalls says a lot about their standards and transparency.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s Science Diet has one of the most sterling reputations in the industry concerning recalls. While the brand has been on the market for well over 50 years, they’ve only had three dog food recalls to speak of.

• June 2014 – Voluntary recall of 62 bags of Adult Small & Toy Breed dry dog food for potential salmonella contamination. The recall was limited to California, Hawaii, and Nevada, and no consumer issues were reported.
• November 2015 – The company initiated a market withdrawal of several soft food flavors due to labeling issues. No consumer issues were ever reported.
• January 2019 – Recalled batches of canned food for elevated levels of vitamin D.

While rare, these events show Hill’s willingness to take swift action when needed.

Orijen

Orijen stands out for having no dog food recalls in its history.

However, the brand was named in a 2018 class-action lawsuit alleging undisclosed heavy metals and BPA in its dog food. The case was dismissed, and lab tests confirmed their levels were well within safe limits, but it’s worth noting.

What’s Really In The Bowl? Ingredients Compared

Both brands are committed to producing quality foods to keep your dogs healthy and happy. However, here’s where the two brands truly diverge: one leans on science-driven formulations, the other on meat-heavy, whole-food recipes.

Hill’s Science Diet: Vet-Backed Nutrition You Can Trust

Hill’s Science Diet is built on decades of veterinary research, making it one of the most trusted and widely recommended brands in the world. Every formula is designed to target specific life stages or health needs — from puppies and active adults to seniors and dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Key nutrition features include:

• Science-backed recipes developed with veterinarians and pet nutritionists
• High-quality protein sources (like chicken and lamb) to maintain lean muscle
• Mostly grain-inclusive formulas, providing dogs with digestible energy from rice, barley, and oats
• Most formulas contain wheat, corn, and soy
• Antioxidants (vitamins C & E) to boost immune strength
• Made in the U.S. with globally sourced ingredients under strict safety standards

Hill’s may use some meat by-products (organs, bone, fatty tissue, etc.) and more processed ingredients than Orijen, but the brand’s commitment to tailored, vet-approved nutrition has made it a go-to choice for millions of pet parents.

Orijen: Meat-Rich Meals That Mimic A Wild Diet

Orijen builds its reputation on biologically appropriate, meat-first recipes designed to mimic a dog’s natural diet. Their dry foods feature about 85% animal ingredients (like free-run chicken, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs) and 15% fresh fruits, vegetables, and botanicals—think apples, pumpkin, and leafy greens.

While best known for grain-free diets, Orijen also offers amazing grain-inclusive formulas made with oats, quinoa, and millet instead of corn, wheat, or soy. These provide extra fiber and steady energy without the common fillers.

Key nutrition boosters include:

• Two-thirds fresh or raw meats for peak flavor and nutrients
• Probiotics to support digestion
• Omega-3 fatty acids from fish and fish oil for skin and coat health
• Antioxidant-rich produce (like blueberries and carrots) for immune support

With freeze-dried coating options reaching up to 90% animal protein, Orijen is one of the most protein-dense, nutrient-rich, and minimally processed dog foods available today.

Hill’s Science Diet vs. Orijen: Quick Ingredient Comparison

Range Of Formulas: Does Hill’s Or Orijen Offer More?

Dog food manufacturers need to make a variety of foods to cater to dogs throughout their entire lifecycle. Here’s how the two companies’ different formulas stack up against each other.

Dogs need different nutrition depending on their age, size, and health condition—and the best brands step up with targeted formulas to match.

• Life Stage Needs: Puppy, adult, and senior blends ensure dogs get the right balance of protein, fat, and nutrients for growth, maintenance, and healthy aging.
• Breed Size Options: Small-breed kibbles are designed for tinier mouths and faster metabolisms, while large-breed recipes support joint health, controlled growth, and calorie needs.
• Special Diets: Sensitive stomach, skin allergies, joint care, and weight management formulas help with common health challenges.

So, how do Hill’s and Orijen measure up when it comes to variety?

Hill’s Science Diet offers 40+ dry dog food recipes and 30+ wet food options, covering every life stage, breed size, and a wide range of health needs. Hill’s also offers a Prescription Diet line that can only be purchased with a prescription from your vet.

Orijen, on the other hand, focuses on a smaller but specialized lineup with about 20 dry recipes and 10 wet food options.

To see which brand is the best fit for your pup, let’s break it down by life stage.

Puppy Formulas Comparison

The puppy stage (up to 12–18 months, depending on breed) is one of the most important phases in a dog’s life. Proper nutrition during this time lays the foundation for strong bones, healthy organs, and lifelong vitality.

Puppies need higher protein levels to fuel growth, along with DHA and omega fatty acids to support brain and eye development.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s offers a solid variety of grain-inclusive puppy formulas tailored by size and health needs.

• 10+ puppy recipes (dry & wet)
• Chicken is the primary protein source in most recipes (a few lamb options)
• Includes small breed, large breed, and general puppy formulas
• Puppy sensitive stomach & skin formula available (salmon)
• Strong focus on balanced nutrition with added DHA from fish oil
• Limited alternative proteins and no grain-free options

Orijen

Orijen takes a meat-first, biologically appropriate approach with some of the most protein-rich puppy foods available.

• 6 dry puppy formulas: regular, large breed, and small breed
• 1 puppy pâté recipe
• Each contains 85% premium animal ingredients: free-run chicken, turkey, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught fish
• Fresh fruits & veggies like apples, pumpkin, and spinach for natural nutrients
• Includes probiotics for gut health and omega-3 fatty acids for brain and eye development
• Grain-free and grain-inclusive lines using oats, quinoa, and millet for added fiber
• Freeze-dried toppers available for extra protein and flavor boost

Puppy Formula Top Pick: Orijen Grain-Free Puppy Food Review

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Orijen’s Puppy Formula is one of the most protein-rich options on the market, designed to mimic the diet puppies would naturally thrive on. With 85% animal ingredients from free-range chicken, turkey, organ meats, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught fish, this recipe delivers premium nutrition for growth and muscle development.

The grain-free formula is balanced with lentils, chickpeas, fresh fruits, and whole vegetables (collard greens, pumpkin, cranberries, etc.), ensuring puppies get a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals without fillers or artificial additives. High in protein and fat, it’s especially suited for active, growing pups that need plenty of energy.

Key Features

• First 10 ingredients are high-quality animal products
• Grain-free recipe
• Contains fresh vegetables and fruits
• Prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
• Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin & coat
• No corn, wheat, gluten, or soy
• No fillers, artificial colors, or artificial flavors
• 475 kcal per cup
• 38% protein, 20% fat, 6% fiber

Price

• Starts at $34.99 (4.5-lb bag)

Adult Formulas Comparison

Once dogs reach adulthood, the goal shifts from growth to maintenance, energy balance, and long-term health. Adult foods need to deliver quality protein for lean muscle, plus the right mix of fats, fiber, and micronutrients for digestion, skin, and coat.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s has one of the widest adult dog food lineups, making it easy to find a fit for different needs.

• 40+ adult formulas (dry & wet)
• Options for small breed, large breed, healthy mobility, sensitive skin & stomach, weight management, oral care, and more
• Mostly grain-inclusive with chicken or lamb as main proteins (only 1 grain-free option)
• Fortified with omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants
• Great for dogs with specific health or size-based needs
• Less protein overall compared to Orijen (around 20–25%)

Orijen

Orijen keeps its lineup tighter, but focuses on nutrient-dense, biologically appropriate recipes.

• 10 adult dry formulas, plus wet stews and freeze-dried options
• Grain-free and grain-inclusive options (oats, quinoa, millet)
• Formulas for small and large breeds and weight management
• 38%+ protein from free-run chicken, turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs
• Fresh fruits & veggies like pumpkin, spinach, and blueberries for natural fiber and antioxidants
• Probiotics for digestive support
• Omega-3 fatty acids from fish for healthy skin & coat
• Minimally processed with two-thirds fresh or raw meats

Adult Formula Top Pick: Orijen Original High-Protein Adult Food Review

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Orijen’s Original Adult Formula is crafted to fuel active dogs with a biologically appropriate, meat-first recipe. The first five ingredients are fresh animal proteins — chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver — giving it an impressive 38% protein content.

This grain-free formula goes beyond meat by incorporating whole fruits, vegetables, natural herbs, and roots for added antioxidants. Prebiotics and probiotics support digestive health, while omega-3 fatty acids promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.

With no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial fillers, Orijen remains one of the cleanest and most nutrient-dense choices for adult dogs.

Key Features

• First four ingredients are real meat
• Includes fresh chicken & turkey
• Contains whole fruits and vegetables
• Prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
• Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin & coat
• No corn, wheat, gluten, or soy
• Grain-free recipe
• 473 kcal per cup
• 38% protein, 18% fat, 4% fiber

Price

• Starts at $34.99 (4.5-lb bag)

Senior Formulas Comparison

As dogs age, their needs can change dramatically. Seniors often require fewer calories, more joint and mobility support, and carefully balanced nutrients to maintain muscle while avoiding excess weight gain.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s is one of the strongest brands for senior-specific diets, with a wide range of targeted options.

• 10+ senior formulas (dry & wet)
• Options for small breed, large breed, and 7+, 11+ life stages
• Lower in calories for weight control (around 350 kcal/cup)
• Moderate protein (~15%) for lean muscle maintenance
• L-carnitine for metabolism support
• Omega-6 fatty acids & vitamin E for skin and coat
• Antioxidants for immune health
• Veterinarian-recommended and widely available

Orijen

Orijen does offer a senior recipe, but the line is limited compared to Hill’s. This formula caters to active senior dogs who don’t need reduced calories, but it is lower in fat than Orijen’s adult recipes.

• 1 main senior formula (plus all-life-stage options that work for seniors)
• Very high protein (38%), designed to maintain muscle mass
• Includes fresh meats, fruits, and vegetables like pumpkin and spinach
• Omega-3 fatty acids for joint and skin health
• Probiotics for gut health
• Grain-free only
• Not as many targeted formulas for breed size or specific senior health concerns

Senior Formula Top Pick: Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7+ Review

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Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ is a trusted choice for aging dogs, formulated with veterinarians’ input to support mobility, metabolism, and overall vitality. This recipe is grain-inclusive, providing easily digestible carbohydrates for steady energy.

With moderate protein (15.5%) to maintain lean muscle, L-carnitine to boost metabolism, and a blend of antioxidants, it’s designed to help older pups stay active and healthy. Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E round out the formula, keeping the skin soft and coat shiny. At 352 kcal per cup, it’s also a lighter option for seniors who may not burn as many calories.

Key Features

• Veterinarian-endorsed brand
• Made from natural ingredients
• Grain-inclusive recipe
• High-quality protein supports your furbaby’s lean muscles
• Antioxidant-rich dog food
• L-carnitine to boost metabolism
• Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E support skin and coat health
• 352 kcal per cup
• 15.5% protein, 10.5% fat, 4% fiber

Price

• Starts at $20.99 (5-lb bag)

Wet Food Comparison

Wet food is a great way to supplement your dog’s meal for some extra flavor and texture, and can be a great option for dogs who are picky eaters, need extra hydration, or have dental concerns. Let’s see how each brand stacks up in this department.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s has one of the largest wet food selections on the market.

• 30+ wet food options across puppy, adult, and senior lines
• Specialized recipes for weight management, sensitive stomachs, and joint care
• Balanced nutrition with added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
• Includes L-carnitine for metabolism and omega-6 fatty acids for skin & coat
• Grain-inclusive, with chicken and turkey as the most common proteins
• Highly palatable stews, pâtés, and loaf styles

Orijen

Orijen’s wet food line is much smaller but highly premium.

• Limited wet food lineup (10 options) compared to Hill’s
• 1 puppy pâté option
• Focuses on meat-first stews made with fresh animal proteins
• Grain-free with no fillers like corn, wheat, or soy
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from wild-caught fish
• Includes fruits & vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, and spinach for natural nutrients
• Designed to mimic whole-prey nutrition in a canned format

Wet Food Formula Top Pick: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Stew Review

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Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Hearty Stew is crafted for pups who need to slim down or maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing taste. Backed by clinical results, over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this recipe as directed.

The stew combines lean protein sources with veggies like carrots, peas, and spinach in a savory broth that keeps dogs satisfied. It’s made with natural, wholesome ingredients — no artificial flavors or preservatives — and includes prebiotics for healthy digestion. At just 247 kcal per can, it’s a calorie-conscious wet food that still supports lean muscle and overall vitality.

Key Features

• Clinically proven to support weight loss & maintenance
• Balanced nutrition with prebiotics for digestion
• Wholesome ingredients, no artificial flavors or preservatives
• Ideal for less active, neutered, or weight-prone dogs
• 247 kcal per can
• 4% protein, 1.5% fat, 4% fiber (wet food basis)

Price

• Starts at $50.28 (12.5 oz can, case of 12)

Final Verdict: Orijen vs Hill’s Science Diet

Both Hill’s Science Diet and Orijen are trusted, high-quality brands, but with very different philosophies. Hill’s Science Diet shines when it comes to senior nutrition and wet food variety, especially for dogs with health concerns that need vet-formulated diets.

Orijen, on the other hand, dominates in the puppy and adult categories with its meat-rich, fresh-ingredient recipes that fuel growth, muscle, and overall vitality.

If your pup has a specific health condition, weight challenge, or needs a size-targeted recipe, Hill’s is the safer bet. But for most healthy dogs, Orijen’s holistic, biologically appropriate diets deliver unmatched nutrition — even if it comes at a higher price point.

Price & Availability: Hill’s is typically more affordable and can be found in almost any pet store or veterinary office. Orijen is more expensive and usually purchased through specialty retailers or online (like Amazon or Chewy).

The Bottom Line

Hill’s Science Diet → Best for seniors, wet food variety, and dogs with specific health conditions. Affordable, widely available, and vet-recommended.

Orijen → Best for puppies and adults. Protein-packed, fresh-ingredient diets that mimic a natural canine diet. Pricier, but unmatched in quality.

Beyond Kibble & Cans

Dog nutrition is evolving, and many pet parents are exploring fresh dog food, air-dried dog food, and custom subscription meals for added flavor, convenience, and health benefits. Brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, Spot & Tango, and Badlands Ranch offer exciting alternatives that go beyond traditional kibble and canned food. We’ve reviewed and tested them so you can find the best fit for your pup’s lifestyle and health needs.

Have you tried Orijen or Hill’s Science Diet for your pup? Let us know in our comments about your experiences and what other dog food brands you’d recommend.