Castor and Pollux dog food is an all-natural brand of premium pet food compared to other dog food brands.
If you didn’t know anything about this brand, you might think that it was named after the founder’s pets but the names Castor and Pollux actually come from Greek mythology.
Twin brothers, Castor and Pollux appeared in several Greek myths but don’t worry – there is nothing mythological about the pet food. It is just wholesome and nutritious pet food, plain and simple.
The company was started by Shelley Gunton and Brian Connolly, loving parents of a lab/pointer mix named Joey. What started as a homemade dog food recipe has blossomed over the past twenty years into one of the top natural and organic pet food brands on the market.
Their pet foods are designed to nourish the bodies of pets from the inside out, providing them with all of the essential nutrients they need and nothing they don’t. It simply stands apart from other dog foods in the market today.
Manufacturer Information
The Castor and Pollux Natural PetWorks company was launched in 1999 with the release of the world’s first branded, premium-quality line of specialty pet food products.
The Organix line of organic pet foods and treats was released in 2003 and three years later, saw the debut of the Natural Ultramix line of products (now discontinued).
Though they began as a family-owned operation, the company was acquired by Merrick Pet Care, Inc. in 2012 in an effort to spread the brand across the country – Merrick is the only U.S. pet food manufacturer certified to product dry and canned organic pet food products.
In 2015, the Merrick Pet Care company was acquired by Nestle Purina PetCare, currently the second-largest pet food company in the world and the largest in the United States.
Because companies that set standards should always be ahead of the game, Castor & Pollux elevated Organix from simply being an organic line into a USDA-certified organic range in 2017.
They also introduced Pristine (a line dedicated to responsibly-sourced food) in that same year.
Castor and Pollux takes pet nutrition very seriously which is why they use only the freshest natural and organic ingredients in their pet food products.
This brand is the self-described “leader in organic and natural pet food” and one of the only pet food companies that offers certified-organic products.
This company makes some pretty lofty claims about the quality and nutrition of their products but these claims appear to be founded in truth.
A quick review of several their products reveals the use of organic meats and digestible carbohydrates, not to mention plenty of healthy fats and wholesome fruits and vegetables.
Organix
The Organix linedebuted in 2013 as a range that specializes in organic pet food. Every Organix product is not just organic, but certified as USDA Organic. What does this mean for you?
You can rest assured that every ingredient in every Organix food is produced without using synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides, added growth hormones or antibiotics, or artificial preservatives. All recipes are non-GMO and contain no soy, corn, or wheat.
The products under the Organix line is composed of dry kibbles, canned food, and treats.
The brands is known to deliver extraordinary nutrition and quality making them a leader in the industry. This recipe is made from organic chicken plus farm-grown veggies such as peas, sweet potatoes and potatoes.
This dog food features a blend of superfoods, omega fatty acids, and premium organic chicken, including fresh chicken, chicken meal, chicken liver, and chicken fat.
Being organic means it may offer more omega fatty acids and has lower salmonella risk compared to conventionally-raised poultry.
This grain-free formula uses sweet potatoes for carbohydrates and includes peas, chickpeas, and sunflower seed meal for additional protein and nutrients.
Sunflower seed meal provides fatty acids, Vitamin E, and trace minerals that support skin, coat, and brain health. The recipe also incorporates coconut oil, sunflower oil, and salmon oil for essential omega fatty acids.
With at least 95% organic ingredients, this food is a balanced and nutritious choice for dogs of all ages and breeds, providing a crude protein content of 26%.
2. Organix Organic Chicken & Vegetable Recipe
Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 ingredients: Organic Chicken, Water Sufficient for Processing, Organic Chicken Liver, Organic Pea Flour, Organic Peas
Made with the intention to assist dogs recover from an injury or illness, this formula contains high caloric content. With ingredients all guaranteed organic, this pate-style meal is just what your fur buddy needs.
This wet dog food is 95% organic and features high-quality chicken as the primary ingredient, providing essential protein for tissue repair and muscle maintenance.
It also contains chicken liver for added protein, vitamin A, and fat, making it suitable for dogs needing to gain or regain weight due to its higher calorie content (42 kcal/12 oz can).
The formula also incorporates peas for protein, along with apples, blueberries, flaxseed, and coconut flour. These ingredients provide antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant-based nutrition. Coconut flour aids digestion and brain function, while flaxseed supports skin health, digestive health, and joint mobility.
The food is enriched with probiotics for digestive health and crafted in small batches to ensure high quality. It’s ideal for dogs requiring extra calories for recovery or weight gain, but may be too calorie-dense for those already at a healthy weight.
3. Organix Organic Cookies Peanut Butter Flavor
Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 ingredients: Organic Chicken, Organic Peas, Organic Brown Rice, Organic Oats, Organic Barley
You can never go wrong with peanut butter and chicken combo. This all-natural snacks offers 95% organic, wholesome ingredients plus it boasts a nice, crunchy texture which is good for the oral health.
You know when your dog gives you that puppy-eyed look that you just can’t resist? It’s time to break out the treats!
These are ideal treats for rewarding or indulging your dog. Each cookie is 1 ½ inches long and contains about 8 calories. They are nutritious with 15% protein, 14% fat, and 5% fiber, and have 10% moisture to help keep dogs hydrated.
The cookies are made with fresh chicken as the primary ingredient and include peas for added protein. Although not grain-free, they contain brown rice, oats, and barley, which provide digestible carbohydrates and fiber.
Other ingredients include chicken fat, natural chicken and peanut butter flavors, flaxseed (for omega fatty acids), and rosemary extract (for natural preservation and antioxidants). These treats are all-natural and provide a tasty, healthy reward for your dog.
Pristine
Responsibly-sourced ingredients is what the Pristine range is all about. The first ingredient in Pristine product line is always a meat or poultry that was responsibly-raised. For fish recipes, they are always wild caught.
Responsibly-raised means the animal the meat comes from has lots of access to natural light, fresh air, and space to roam. They’re also given a healthy diet that makes no use of hormones or antibiotics.
The fish in every Pristine recipe is most assuredly wild caught and MSC-certified (MSC stands for Marine Stewardship Council). Only fisheries with environmentally-sustainable practices are certified by the MSC.
Because Pristine recipes also contain fruits and vegetables, only those responsibly-grown are used. They’re all organic — no chemical pesticides, no synthetic fertilizers, and no GMO. Organic food = healthier pet.
4. PRISTINE Wild-Caught Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe with Raw Bites
Rating: 5/5 stars
First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Lamb Meal, Organic Pea Protein, Organic Peas, Organic Chickpeas
This wholesome and drool-worthy recipe starts with wild-caught salmon that is responsibly caught by a certified sustainable fishery, which is a very good source of omega fatty acids to promote better skin and coat health.
This particular recipe features wild-caught salmon from a sustainable fishery as the main ingredient, providing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that support skin, coat health, brain development, and inflammation management.
To boost protein content, the formula also includes lamb meal and whitefish, alongside plant proteins from peas and chickpeas, achieving a minimum of 28% protein. For carbohydrates, sweet potatoes and tapioca are used, adding dietary fiber.
The recipe includes pork fat, which is less likely to cause allergies and supports energy and metabolism. Pristine’s formulation also includes freeze-dried Raw Bites for added texture and nutrition, making it a balanced, nutrient-dense choice for dogs.
How do we rate this diet? A very high 5! Your dog will definitely enjoy the varying texture and taste with every bite.
5. PRISTINE Free-Range Turkey, Carrot & Apple Stew
Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 ingredients: Organic Turkey, Chicken Broth, Water Sufficient For Processing, Organic Chicken Liver, Organic Pea Protein
This wholesome and delectable recipe starts with organic-fed turkey that is responsibly raised with access to fresh air, natural light and space to roam. Cooked with love in a U.S. kitchen for a wholesome, complete and balanced meal.
Pristine’s wet canned food features a turkey, carrot, and apple recipe with organically-fed, responsibly-raised turkey as the main ingredient. Turkey provides lean protein, ideal for weight maintenance.
The recipe also includes pea protein and dried peas to support protein levels, reaching a minimum of 8% crude protein, which is typical for wet food.
Key ingredients include salmon oil and sunflower oil, which contribute omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin, coat, cognitive function, and overall health. Yucca schidigera is included for its potential to reduce inflammation and waste odor.
Chicken broth enhances palatability and hydration, with a moisture content of up to 81%. Chicken liver adds additional nutrients like iron, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.
Overall, the recipe is high-quality and well-formulated, though a higher protein content would be preferred.
6. PRISTINE Cage-Free Duck, Pea & Carrot Stew
Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 ingredients: Duck, Chicken Broth, Water Sufficient For Processing, Organic Chicken Liver, Organic Pea Protein
This sumptuous recipe features cage-free duck as its topmost ingredient that is responsibly raised without antibiotics or hormones. This recipe has zero corn, grains, soy, wheat or gluten ingredients and no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors.
This stew recipe features fresh duck as the primary ingredient, supplemented by chicken liver for added protein. The recipe also includes chicken broth and water for moisture and flavor.
It contains carrots, dried peas, green beans, and organic tapioca for gluten-free and grain-free carbohydrates, which support digestion.
While the stew provides a balance of omega fatty acids for skin and coat health and is highly digestible, it includes pea protein, a less valuable plant protein compared to animal proteins.
The fats used are plant-based and appear late in the ingredient list. It also contains synthetic vitamins and minerals, which offer limited bio-availability compared to chelated minerals.
Overall, the stew offers balanced nutrition suitable for dogs of all life stages but could be improved by replacing pea protein with additional meat-based ingredients, incorporating animal-based fats, and adding chelated minerals and probiotics.
7. PRISTINE Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Raw Meal or Mixer (Chicken)
This mouthwatering dog food topper was made with responsibly sourced ingredients from trusted suppliers. The very first ingredient is organic-fed, free-range chicken that is raised without any antibiotics or hormones.
Mixers were created to take away a pup’s food boredom. Say you’ve found the perfect healthy balanced meal for your pet, but it only comes in one or two flavors.
After weeks of eating the same thing over and over, your dog is going to want some change. Adding mixers, or food toppers, to their regular food will bring the variety that they crave.
Pristine offers a wholesome food topper to add variety to your dog's regular diet while keeping it healthy. This recipe features chicken, chicken liver, and chicken broth for a rich, savory taste.
It includes fruits and vegetables like apples, blueberries, peas, and carrots, which provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and carbohydrates.
Key ingredients such as salmon oil, dried kelp, and chicory root offer additional health benefits. Salmon oil provides Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for cell health, while kelp delivers essential vitamins, minerals, and iodine to support thyroid function. Chicory root, a prebiotic fiber, improves digestion and nutrient absorption.
The ingredients are raw and freeze-dried, preserving nutrients and freshness. This food topper contains 44% crude protein and fewer calories, making it ideal for weight maintenance or loss. It can be served dry or hydrated with water for a nutritious addition to any meal.
These grain free treats boasts grass-fed, free-range lamb as its topmost ingredient. Cooked with love in a U.S. kitchen for a wholesome, delectable snack your pooch will be happy about.
A purposeful reward for your pet will benefit both of you. Your pet will get that tasty treat he deserves, while you get to be content knowing that you’re giving him nothing but healthy food.
These sausage treats offer a simple, nutritious reward for your dog. Made from free-range lamb, they are ideal for dogs with beef allergies. Lamb provides a rich, savory taste and is high in omega fatty acids.
The recipe contains only four ingredients: lamb for protein (30% minimum), dried cultured skim milk for calcium and vitamin D (though not suitable for lactose-intolerant dogs), mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) as a natural preservative, and rosemary extract, which also acts as a preservative and has anti-cancer properties. Each treat contains 29 calories, making them a filling but occasional reward.
9. PRISTINE Grass-Fed Beef Bone Broth Seasoned with Turmeric
Rating: 4.5/5
All ingredients:Beef Broth, Beef Fat, Salt, Natural Flavor, Organic Turmeric
This delicious broth is 100% free of artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors. It’s also formulated with zero allegenic ingredients such as grains, soy, corn, wheat or gluten, making it a great choice for dogs with allergies.
Bone broth is becoming a popular addition to dog diets due to its nutritional benefits. Made by simmering bones, it is rich in glucosamine and collagen, which support joint and bone health. This Pristine beef bone broth recipe contains only five ingredients: beef broth, beef fat, salt, natural flavor, and turmeric.
Though low in protein (0.5%) and high in moisture (98%), it can boost hydration and add flavor to meals, especially for picky eaters or recovering dogs.
The broth is palatable, with beef fat adding taste and warmth, while turmeric acts mainly as a flavor enhancer and colorant. Overall, it's a nutritious and simple option for extra nourishment.
Good Buddy
The Good Buddy is a line of delicious snacks crafted for all occasions. They’re healthy, low in calories, and a great accompaniment to full meals.
10. Good Buddy Peanut Butter Flavor Cookies
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
First 5 ingredients: Whole Wheat Flour, Rolled Oats, Canola Oil Naturally Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Peanut Butter, Whey Powder
Made from all natural ingredients that are not only healthy, but tasty too. The cookies are oven-baked to a golden, crunchy texture and have an aroma dogs love.
Good Buddy cookies are oven-baked dog treats made from all-natural ingredients with no added sugar or salt.
The primary ingredient is whole wheat flour, providing fiber for digestion and carbohydrates for energy, making it suitable for dogs not allergic to wheat. Rolled oats add more fiber, carbohydrates, and linoleic acid for healthy skin.
Additional ingredients include canola oil, rich in omega fatty acids and vitamins E and K; peanut butter, a safe and beloved flavor for dogs; whey powder for extra protein; garlic powder, which boosts immunity and repels fleas in safe quantities; eggs for protein; and dried kelp, which provides minerals and vitamins.
These cookies are healthy and flavorful, with other available flavors like Cheddar Cheese and Pumpkin & Apple.
Beef provides most of the protein (32%), while sweet potatoes add beta-carotene, fiber, and calcium. Dried cultured skim milk contributes additional protein and calcium but may not be suitable for dogs with dairy sensitivities.
Salt is present in small amounts to aid in digestion and act as a preservative, while mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) serve as antioxidants and natural preservatives.
Each treat contains 24 kcal, so portion control is essential. These treats are easy to chew, making them suitable for older dogs, and are a favorite for their smoky flavor and nutritious ingredients.
Made in the USA?
Though the Nestle Purina PetCare has a global reach, the Castor and Pollux brand is produced and manufactured exclusively in the United States. Though the company has changed hands, their products are still developed by a team of experts in the field of animal nutrition and organic ingredients.
This company does more than just provide premium-quality organic foods for pets – they are also dedicated to giving back to the community, especially for pets in need.
The PetWorks Partner Program was created to provide pet rescue groups and organizations around the company with high-quality natural and organic foods. Since the program began, they donated more than 4 million bowls of food to pets in need.
Where do they Get Their Ingredients?
The Organix line of pet food and treats from Castor and Pollux was the first and most complete line of organic-certified pet food products in the United States. They continue to be a leader in the field of organic and natural pet food. This company believes in the power of quality nutrition which is why they use only the freshest natural ingredients in all of their products.
They believe in the power of organic ingredients to reduce allergies, to improve digestion, and to boost overall health in pets – that is why all of their ingredients are sourced right here in the United States.
Recall List
Not only are they dedicated to using the highest quality ingredients in each of their products, but they also take quality control and safety measures very seriously in the manufacture of those products.
In 2018, the brand voluntarily recalled two products under the Good Buddy range (Prime Patties Real Beef Recipe and Sausage Cuts Real Beef Recipe) after one of the products were found to contain elevated levels of a naturally-occurring beef thyroid hormone. (High levels of the hormone may cause increased urination, thirst, and heart rate; weight loss; and restlessness.
Only those with best before dates occurring between May 19, 2017 to September 1, 2019 were affected. Since then, no other recalls have been issued.
How expensive are their products?
Pristine and Organix have mostly the same price range. An 18-lb bag of dry kibbles may set you back $70 and up, while a case of 12.7 oz (12 cans inside) canned wet food may cost you $35 and up depending on the recipe.
Meanwhile, Good Buddy treats can cost around $6 upwards, depending on flavor.
Apart from the food mentioned above, Castor & Pollux also sells rawhide treats for pups that are determined to chew. These are sold under the Good Buddy line.
Here is their Product List
Though Castor and Pollux had a modest start, they now offer a wide range of products for both dogs and cats. Their pet foods can be divided into several product lines – Organix, Natural Ultramix, and Good Buddy.
The Organix line of products was released in 2003 and it contains both classic and grain-free recipes featuring certified-organic ingredients. The Natural Ultramix brand joined the lineup in 2004 and it features high-quality, natural ingredients like real meat and grain-free carbohydrates.
The Good Buddy line of products consists of nutritious and flavorful dog treats. Though each product line is different, they are all made with natural, wholesome ingredients in recipes that are complete and balanced. You couldn’t ask for more.
Dry Products
They offer a wide variety of dry products which are divided into two main product lines. The Organix line of dry foods features both classic and grain-free recipes made with certified-organic ingredients as well as a limited selection of kibbles infused with freeze-dried raw bites.
The Natural Ultramix line of products features natural ingredients as well as added vitamins and minerals – there are also a few recipes infused with freeze-dried raw bites. Here is a list of dry recipes:
Organix Dry Food Recipes:
ORGANIX Organic Puppy Recipe With Healthy Grains
ORGANIX Organic Small Breed Recipe With Healthy Grains
PRISTINE Grain Free Cage-Free Duck, Pea & Carrot Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Free-Range Chicken, Pea & Carrot Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Free-Range Turkey, Carrot & Apple Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Grass-Fed Beef, Pea & Carrot Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Grass-Fed Lamb, Carrot & Apple Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Small Breed Cage-Free Duck Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Small Breed Free-Range Chicken Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Small Breed Grass-Fed Beef Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Small Breed Grass-Fed Lamb Stew
PRISTINE Grain Free Free-Range Chicken Bone Broth
PRISTINE Grain Free Free-Range Turkey Bone Broth
PRISTINE Grain Free Grass-Fed Beef Bone Broth
PRISTINE Grain Free Grass-Fed Beef Bone Broth Seasoned With Turmeric
Treats
In addition to an assortment of dry food and wet food products, Castor and Pollux also offers a dedicated line of dog treats called Good Buddy.
These treats come in the form of dental chews, jerky strips, sausage cuts, and an assortment of rawhide bones and treats, good new for pet owners who wants variety. Here is a list of Good Buddy dog treat recipes:
Noreen possesses a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree from Informatics International College. While this credential might not elucidate her passion for pets, it does demonstrate her technical expertise and diverse character.
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