Wild Earth Dog Food Review 2026: My Dogs’ Experience & Results
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I’ve put together the most comprehensive reviews of Wild Earth dog food. As a science-backed, plant-based dog food brand, Wild Earth immediately stood out from the typical fresh or kibble options on the market. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on insights to help you decide whether Wild Earth’s vegan, protein-rich dog food is the right choice for your dog. Before you consider making the switch, I’ll walk you through our month-long experience with the brand—covering everything from ingredient quality and nutritional philosophy to price, palatability, and real-world results. I’ll also address the most common questions dog owners have when considering a plant-based diet. Let’s dive in.
Wild Earth Dog Food Review — At A Glance
Our Verdict
Product Description: Wild Earth is a plant-based dog food manufacturer offering vegan dog food, treats, and supplements, available as one-time purchases or through a subscription model, with an emphasis on sustainable, animal-free nutrition.
Our Verdict & Summary
After reviewing Wild Earth closely — from ingredient sourcing and formulation to real-world feeding feedback — it’s clear this brand is not trying to imitate traditional kibble. It’s intentionally doing something different. What stood out most during our evaluation is how thoughtfully the formula is constructed around amino acid completeness rather than protein source alone, which is often where plant-based dog foods fall short.
In our testing and research, we found Wild Earth to be particularly consistent in quality and digestibility when transitioned properly. Dogs that tolerated the formula well maintained stable energy levels, healthy stools, and good coat condition. While it won’t be the right fit for every dog, Wild Earth delivers on its core promise: a nutritionally complete, plant-based alternative backed by science rather than trends.
This is not a “miracle food,” but for the right dog and owner, it’s one of the most credible vegan dog food options currently available.
Who It’s For ▼
Wild Earth is best suited for adult dogs with sensitivities to animal proteins or owners intentionally seeking a vegan, cruelty-free diet, provided the dog tolerates plant-based nutrition well.
What Makes It Unique ▼
Wild Earth stands out for its use of novel yeast-based protein instead of legumes, its focus on amino acid completeness, and its science-first approach to formulating nutritionally complete vegan dog food.
Downsides & Improvements ▼
The limited recipe variety, higher price compared to conventional kibble, and mixed palatability for some dogs are the most common drawbacks noted by owners.
Bottom Line ▼
Wild Earth is not designed to replace traditional dog food for every dog, but it is one of the most thoughtfully formulated plant-based options available. For dogs that thrive on vegan diets and owners prioritizing sustainability, it offers a legitimate alternative to meat-based kibble. As with any specialized diet, individual response ultimately determines whether it’s the right fit.
Why you should trust us: Our writers, editors and in-house veterinarians spend hours analyzing and reviewing products and services to help find what’s best for you. Read the product review methodology and editorial mission to find out how we test, analyze, and rate
Who Is Wild Earth?
Origin & MissionWild Earth was founded with the goal of rethinking how dogs get their protein. Co-founder Ryan Bethencourt, a longtime advocate for alternative proteins, partnered with veterinary nutritionist Alison Schwimmer to develop a science-backed, plant-based dog food that delivers complete nutrition without relying on animal ingredients.
“Dogs don’t need meat—they need nutrients. Our mission is to deliver
complete, high-quality nutrition in a way that’s better for dogs,
people, and the planet.”
— Ryan Bethencourt, Co-Founder
|
Wild Earth Benefits According to Science
The Research
| Research Finding | Key Result |
|---|---|
| Overall Health Improvement | In a survey of 3,000 Wild Earth customers whose dogs were fed the diet for at least three months, 86% reported a positive health benefit after switching to Wild Earth.[3] |
| Energy & Vitality | 44% of dogs showed increased energy levels after transitioning to a Wild Earth plant-based diet.[3] |
| Skin & Coat Health | 50% of dogs experienced improved coat quality, while 43% had reduced itching, suggesting benefits for skin and dermatological health.[3] |
| Digestive Health & Stool Quality | 54% of dogs showed improvements in stool quality, and 41% experienced reduced flatulence and gas after switching to Wild Earth.[3] |
| Joint Health & Mobility | 26% of dogs demonstrated improved joint health, potentially linked to the anti-inflammatory properties of plant-based nutrition.[3] |
| Coat & Skin Outcomes (Independent Study) | A study involving 233 pet owners found that 38% of pets developed healthier, shinier coats after transitioning to a vegan diet, with reductions in oily and scaly skin conditions.[4] |
| Overall Health & Longevity | Research reviewing over 300 dogs fed vegan or vegetarian diets for their entire lives reported excellent or good health status by veterinary standards, with a median lifespan of 12.6 years.[4] |
| Veterinary Outcomes vs Meat-Based Diets | Lead researcher Dr. Andrew Knight found that dogs on vegan diets may be healthier and less hazardous than those on conventional meat-based diets, with fewer veterinary visits reported overall.[5] |
Our Testers & Judges
To evaluate Wild Earth under real-world conditions, we tested it with dogs of different breeds, sizes, and dietary backgrounds. These dogs were observed for palatability, transition response, and overall acceptance before moving into deeper analysis of ingredients and nutrition.
Bandit
Wilder
Wild Earth Dog Food Unboxing
Wild Earth delivers a straightforward, no-frills unboxing experience that reflects its practical, sustainability-focused approach. The shipment arrives neatly packed, clearly labeled, and easy to store—without unnecessary packaging or refrigeration.
Wild Earth arrives in a standard cardboard box containing shelf-stable dry kibble bags and/or treats. No ice packs or insulated liners are required. The packaging prioritizes freshness and convenience, with clear feeding instructions and storage guidance included inside.
Wild Earth Ingredients
Wild Earth’s Performance Formula features a transparent, plant-based ingredient list built around yeast-derived protein rather than animal by-products or meat meals. The recipes avoid artificial colors and chemical preservatives, focusing instead on functional plant ingredients and targeted nutrient support.
The foundation of Wild Earth’s Performance Formula is dried yeast, a highly digestible, non-animal protein source selected for its amino acid profile and consistency. This yeast protein is paired with potato protein, whole grains, functional plant oils, and fiber-rich ingredients designed to support digestion, energy metabolism, and nutrient uptake.
The ingredient panel includes barley, oats, millet, grain sorghum, and sweet potato as carbohydrate sources, along with flaxseed, sunflower oil, and canola oil for essential fatty acids. Added prebiotic fibers help support gut health, while marine microalgae provides a plant-based source of DHA.
To support complete and balanced nutrition, Wild Earth incorporates a range of functional nutrients and fortification elements, including:
Wild Earth Sourcing & Manufacturing
Wild Earth follows a modern sourcing and manufacturing approach centered on plant-based ingredients, veterinary formulation, and sustainability. While its supply chain is more globally distributed than some fresh-food brands, the company prioritizes ingredient transparency, safety standards, and ethical sourcing practices.
Wild Earth dog food is produced in the United States using a combination of domestically
and internationally sourced plant-based ingredients, including fungal proteins, grains,
legumes, and functional nutrients. Recipes are developed with veterinary nutrition input
and formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult maintenance.
Unlike traditional meat-based pet food manufacturing, Wild Earth’s production model avoids
animal agriculture altogether, reducing reliance on intensive farming practices. This
plant-based approach contributes to a lower environmental footprint while still maintaining
consistency, quality control, and food safety standards expected of commercial pet food
manufacturing. To date, Wild Earth has no publicly reported product recalls.
Our Wild Earth’s Dog Experience
A breakdown of our dog’s experience with Wild Earth
Day 1
Bandit approached the Wild Earth kibble with curiosity. After a few sniffs, he began eating without hesitation, which isn’t always guaranteed with new foods.
Week 1
As we gradually transitioned from his previous kibble, Bandit continued to eat consistently and finished most meals without needing encouragement.
Week 2
Stool quality stabilized during the full transition, and we noticed less gas compared to his previous diet.
Week 3
Bandit’s energy levels remained steady, with no noticeable weight gain or loss, suggesting the portions were easy to dial in.
One Month
After a full month on Wild Earth, Bandit showed consistent digestion, maintained a healthy body condition, and continued to eat meals reliably.
Wild Earth Video Review
How Much Is Wild Earth Dog Food?
| Bag Size | Formula | One-Time Purchase | Subscription Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 lb bag | Performance Formula | $99.99 | $84.99 (15% off) |
| 4 lb bag | Performance Formula | $36.00 | $30.60 (15% off) |
| 28 lb bag | Maintenance Formula – Classic Roast | $125.00 | $106.25 (15% off) |
| 4 lb bag | Maintenance Formula – Classic Roast | $25.99 | — |
| 28 lb bag | Maintenance Formula – Golden Rotisserie | $125.00 | $106.25 (15% off) |
| 4 lb bag | Maintenance Formula – Golden Rotisserie | $24.99 | — |
Recipes Overview & Review
We analyzed and reviewed each recipe to tell you what they are best for based on their nutritional analysis and ingredients.
Performance Formula
Ingredients: Dried yeast, barley, oats, grain sorghum, potato protein, millet, canola oil, sweet potato, flaxseed, sunflower oil, L-carnitine, vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Value:
Why should you consider it: This formula is designed for active or aging dogs that need higher protein from plant-based sources, using yeast as the primary complete amino-acid protein instead of meat. It includes DHA for brain support, taurine and L‑carnitine for heart and metabolism, prebiotics and fiber for digestion, and omega fatty acids for skin and coat. It is 100% vegan, grain-inclusive, and formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult maintenance.
Classic Roast
Ingredients: Barley, brown rice, grain sorghum, dried yeast, potato protein, millet, canola oil, sweet potato, flaxseed, vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Value:
Why should you consider it: Designed for adult dogs with average activity levels who don’t require elevated protein or fat intake. Using yeast-based protein as its foundation, this formula delivers complete amino acids while keeping calories and fat moderate, making it well-suited for weight maintenance and long-term feeding. It’s a practical option for dogs with animal-protein sensitivities and owners seeking a balanced, plant-based daily diet.
Golden Rotisserie
Ingredients: Barley, brown rice, grain sorghum, dried yeast, potato protein, millet, canola oil, sweet potato, flaxseed, vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Value:
Why should you consider it: Golden Rotisserie offers the same core nutritional profile as Classic Roast but with a different flavor, making it good for dogs that enjoy variety while staying on a gentle, grain‑inclusive vegan formula. It supports skin and coat health with added omegas, is suitable for sensitive stomachs, and meets AAFCO maintenance standards for adult dogs.
Pork Recipe
Ingredients: Oat flour, strawberry, peanut butter, dried asparagus, organic reishi mushroom product, dried kelp, dried cranberry fruit, mixed tocopherols, green tea extract, rosemary extract.
Nutritional Value:
Why should you consider it: Use koji as a complete, highly digestible plant protein, supporting muscle maintenance without animal ingredients. Are fully vegan and avoid common meat allergens, which can help dogs with sensitivities or households avoiding animal products. Include real fruits and veggies (like strawberry, beet, banana, and peanut butter) plus superfoods such as kelp and reishi mushrooms that contribute extra vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Key Features
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Yeast-based protein source | Uses dried yeast as the primary protein instead of animal meat, offering a novel option for dogs with common meat sensitivities. |
| Plant-based formulation | Relies entirely on plant ingredients, which may appeal to owners seeking alternatives to traditional meat-based dog food. |
| Allergen-friendly approach | Avoids common animal proteins like beef, chicken, and dairy that are often linked to food sensitivities. |
| Complete adult maintenance nutrition | Formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult dogs, ensuring balanced daily nutrition. |
| Developed using nutrition science | Recipes are formulated with input from animal nutrition experts and food scientists. |
| Shelf-stable dry kibble | No refrigeration required, making storage and feeding simpler than fresh or frozen diets. |
| Functional ingredient additions | Includes taurine, L-carnitine, prebiotic fibers, and DHA from marine microalgae to support overall health. |
| Environmental sustainability focus | Plant-based recipes are designed to reduce the environmental footprint compared to meat-heavy dog foods. |
| Ingredient transparency | Full ingredient lists and guaranteed analysis are clearly disclosed for each formula. |
| Multiple formulas available | Offers Performance and Maintenance formulas, along with treats, allowing owners to choose based on activity level. |
| Subscription flexibility | Optional subscription plans provide discounts with the ability to adjust or cancel at any time. |
| Novel treat ingredients | Wild Earth treats use koji-based protein, adding variety and palatability without animal ingredients. |
| No artificial colors or preservatives | Preserved naturally using mixed tocopherols and avoids synthetic dyes. |
| Consistent formulation | Dry kibble format allows for predictable feeding and easier portion control. |
Wild Earth Reddit Reviews
Check out what people are saying about Wild Earth on Reddit.
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Wild Earth Pros & Cons
- Dogs with animal-protein sensitivities often show improved tolerance after switching
- Digestion tends to stabilize when the food is introduced gradually
- Supports consistent energy levels and weight maintenance in adult dogs
- Complete amino acid profile from yeast-based protein rather than legumes alone
- Ingredient list remains consistent, making it easier to track dietary responses
- Works well as a long-term daily diet for dogs that tolerate plant-based nutrition
- Many dogs maintain healthy stools once fully transitioned
- Appeals to owners seeking an animal-free, sustainability-focused option
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Dry, shelf-stable format makes storage and feeding simple
- Lower risk of common meat-related allergy flare-ups
- Clear feeding guidelines make portion control straightforward
- No antibiotics or hormones by design due to the absence of animal ingredients
- Uses yeast-derived natural umami flavoring to mimic meaty taste without animal inputs
- Relies on GMO crops intentionally to improve yield efficiency and reduce land use
- Cruelty-free formulation with no animal testing or animal-derived ingredients
- Mission-driven brand focused on disrupting traditional meat-based pet food systems
- Palatability can be inconsistent, especially for dogs accustomed to meat-heavy diets
- Some dogs experience loose stools if the transition is rushed
- Limited recipe variety may lead to food boredom over time
- Not ideal for dogs that require very high-fat or performance-level diets
- May require toppers during the initial transition for picky eaters
- Price can feel high for owners comparing it to conventional kibble
- Vegan formulas may not be suitable for every dog without monitoring
- Less appealing for dogs with extremely strong meat preferences
- Results vary noticeably depending on the individual dog
- Manufactured using heat extrusion, similar to most traditional dry dog food
- Contains wheat germ, which may not be suitable for dogs with wheat allergies
- No grain-free recipe options currently available
- Packaging is not recyclable despite the brand’s sustainability focus
- Shipping availability is limited compared to larger global pet food brands
Average Global Score
| Review Source | Rating | Review Volume | Sentiment | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | ≈ 4.4 / 5 | Multiple listings | Mostly positive | Strong satisfaction with quality; some palatability issues |
| Chewy | ≈ 4.4 / 5 | 100+ combined reviews | Mostly positive | Varies by formula; performance recipes rate higher |
| Better Business Bureau | No star rating | Limited complaints | Mixed | Issues mainly related to billing & subscriptions |
| Trustpilot | ≈ 3.7 / 5 | Low volume | Mixed | Limited data; not fully representative |
| Wild Earth Website | ≈ 4.3 / 5 | 1,300+ survey responses | Very positive | 86% of customers reported health improvements |
| Canine Bible Rating | 4.6 / 5 | Editorial review | Highly positive | Based on formulation, research & real-world evaluation |
| Overall Average | ≈ 4.2 / 5 | — | Positive | Average of all numeric review sources |
Wild Earth vs The Competition
| Brand | Recipes | Ingredient Quality | Customization | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Earth | Performance & Maintenance formulas | Plant-based, yeast-derived protein, no animal meat | Low (fixed formulas) | $$–$$$ | Dogs with meat sensitivities, eco-conscious owners |
| Petaluma | Oven-baked plant-based kibble | Organic grains & plant proteins | None | $$$ | Owners seeking organic, plant-based kibble |
| V-Dog | Vegan kibble & treats | Plant-based protein blends | None | $$ | Owners seeking a fully vegan dog food |
| Halo | Multiple kibble recipes | Whole-meat & plant ingredients | None | $$ | Traditional kibble with cleaner sourcing |
| Open Farm | Kibble & gently cooked | Ethically sourced animal proteins | Low | $$$ | Owners prioritizing ethical meat sourcing |
| Just Food For Dogs | Fresh vegan recipe | Whole-food, plant-based ingredients | None | $$$ | Owners wanting a fresh, plant-based alternative |
Can Puppies Eat Wild Earth?
Wild Earth dog food is not specifically formulated for puppies, as the brand’s current recipes are designed to meet AAFCO standards for adult maintenance, not growth or all life stages. Puppies have higher calorie needs and require precise levels of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and DHA to support proper bone, muscle, and neurological development, which are not explicitly guaranteed in adult-only formulas. While some owners consider Wild Earth for puppies with severe animal-protein sensitivities under veterinary guidance, it is generally recommended to choose a dog food labeled for growth or all life stages during puppyhood, or to use Wild Earth only with close monitoring and professional nutritional oversight.
Is Wild Earth Dog Food Safe?
Wild Earth dog food is safe, healthy and nutritionally balanced (AFFCO approved). Popular belief says that dogs are exclusive meat-eaters. The reason is partly because dogs are related to wolves and are in the scientific order of “Carnivora.” Despite its name, the order also includes herbivores and omnivores, such as Giant Pandas and Raccoons.[8] Over millennia, dogs have evolved several differences from wolves. The genomes of dogs have evolved to allow them to digest plant-based starches and thrive on food that contains a wide variety of ingredients, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, grains, meat, poultry, fish, and more.[9] However, a plant-based diet may be risky for some dogs. That’s why you should always consult your vet before you start your dog on a new diet.
NOTE: If you are concerned about grain-free diets and their relationship to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), don’t be. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that no scientific evidence exists that a grain-free diet causes DCM.[10] Wild Earth has eliminated this from its recipes.
Customer Service Experience
Wild Earth provides generally responsive and helpful customer support, with service quality that aligns with a smaller, mission-driven brand rather than a large subscription food company.
In our review, Wild Earth customer service is primarily handled through email and online support channels rather than phone-based assistance. Responses are typically clear, informative, and focused on ingredient transparency, feeding guidance, and order issues. While response times can vary during peak periods, support interactions tend to be courteous and solution-oriented, particularly when addressing subscription changes, refunds, or product questions related to plant-based nutrition.
Ordering, Shipping & Delivery
Wild Earth offers a straightforward ordering process with predictable delivery timelines, reflecting the simplicity of a dry, shelf-stable dog food model.
After placing our order, we received a confirmation email followed by a standard shipping notification with tracking details once the package shipped. Orders are delivered in durable cardboard boxes using conventional carriers, and because Wild Earth is a dry kibble, there are no temperature concerns or special handling requirements. Delivery times are generally reasonable, though shipping availability is more limited than larger pet food brands, and international options are restricted. Overall, the experience is reliable, simple, and aligned with expectations for a direct-to-consumer dry dog food brand.
Wild Earth Shark Tank
You may already know Wild Earth from the popular show Shark Tank. Ryan Bethencourt, CEO of Wild Earth vegan dog food, walked onto the Shark Tank stage in 2020. He presented the idea of plant-based dog food as one of the solutions to kibble fillers and preservatives, pet food recalls, pet obesity, and environmental impact. The vegan dog food company also presented plant-based dog treats offered in five flavors. However, some Sharks were not immediately sold on the claim that dogs could easily transition to a meat-free diet. Bethencourt defended his vegan dog food position by stating that most vets agree that a meat-free diet is just as healthy as a meat-based diet.
Bethencourt cited Dr. Knight, a Professor of Animal Welfare and Ethics and Director of the Centre for Animal Welfare at the University of Winchester, who states that dogs can thrive on vegetarian diets as long as they are nutritionally complete and reasonably balanced. Further research evidence from the University of Winchester said dogs and cats could experience fewer health complications and higher activity levels on a vegetarian diet.[12]
Bethencourt’s Wild Earth dog food valuation was $11 million. Ryan attributed the valuation to the extensive R&D (Research & Development). Bethencourt explains the process of making koji-based protein. Wild Earth made a deal with Shark Tank billionaire Mark Cuban, who offered $550,000 to invest in the brand. Fellow sharks critiqued his decision, saying that vegan dog food was not solving an environmental problem but exacerbating waste with bougie dog treats. This claim was quickly put to rest with the research provided by UCLA, ‘meat-based dog and cat food account for one-third of carbon emissions produced by the meat industry.
Ultimately, Ryan walked away from Shark Tank with a successful deal and sought to bring the benefits of vegan dog food to every dog owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wild Earth Dog Food Worth It?
Plant-based diets are definitely on the rise, despite being a controversial way to feed your pet. Our consensus is that Wild Earth vegan dog food is worth trying, as it is safe and nutritious. Our research and scientific studies show that vegan dog nutrition may be a great alternative to traditional dog food. The team at Wild Earth has worked hard over the years on research and development to bring together fresh, wholesome plant-based ingredients to provide dogs with healthier nutrition. Whether you are looking for an all-natural, chemical-free dietor trying something different to find relief from allergies and gastrointestinal issues plaguing your pup, Wild Earth’s clean vegan dog food is a great choice. Check out our best vegan dog food guide to learn more about the benefits of plant-based dog diets and other vegan dog food brands.
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Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Wild Earth
- Okin, G. S. (2017). Environmental impacts of food consumption by dogs and cats. PLOS ONE.
- Wild Earth. (2024). The Wild Earth Effect.
- Knight, A., & Leitsberger, M. (2016). Vegetarian versus Meat-Based Diets for Companion Animals. Animals, 6(9), 57.
- Dodd, S. A. S., Cave, N. J., Adolphe, J. L., Shoveller, A. K., Verbrugghe, A., & Abood, S. K. (2022). Vegan versus meat-based dog food: Guardian-reported indicators of health. PLOS ONE,
- Rubenstein, G. (2020, October 22). Lab-Grown Dog Food Is First Step to a Clean Meat Empire. Proto life.
- Hamajima, H., Matsunaga, H., Fujikawa, A., Sato, T., Mitsutake, S., Yanagita, T., Nagao, K., Nakayama, J., & Kitagaki, H. (2016). Japanese traditional dietary fungus koji Aspergillus oryzae functions as a prebiotic for Blautia coccoides through glycosylceramide: Japanese dietary fungus koji is a new prebiotic. SpringerPlus, 5(1).
- DACVN, C. R. H., VMD, MS, & DACVN, C. R. H., VMD, MS. (2016, July 21). Vegan Dogs – A healthy lifestyle or going against nature? Clinical Nutrition Service at Cummings School.
- Axelsson, E., Ratnakumar, A., Arendt, M.-L., Maqbool, K., Webster, M. T., Perloski, M., Liberg, O., Arnemo, J. M., Hedhammar, Å., & Lindblad-Toh, K. (2013). The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starch-rich diet. Nature, 495(7441), 360–364.
- Griff. (n.d.). What we know about canine DCM and its link to diet? Wild Earth Help Center.
- Statista. (n.d.). Average price of of dry pet food by type U.S. 2019.
- Knight, A., & Leitsberger, M. (2016). Vegetarian versus Meat-Based Diets for Companion Animals. Animals, 6(9), 57.
