How Regenerative Farming Supports Premium Dog Nutrition

Kristina Voltin
Jun 11
12 min read

Regenerative farming improves dog food by producing more nutrient-rich ingredients while helping the planet. It focuses on healthy soil, which leads to crops with higher levels of essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, calcium, and zinc. This means better nutrition for your dog, including stronger bones, improved energy, and a shinier coat.

Key Takeaways:

Healthier Ingredients: Regenerative crops have up to 20% more protein and 48% more calcium compared to conventional farming.
Environmental Benefits: It reduces greenhouse gases, improves water retention, and restores degraded soil.
Consumer Demand: 42% of pet owners look for sustainably sourced food, and brands like Loyal Saints are leading with freeze-dried, regeneratively sourced ingredients.

Freeze-drying preserves nutrients, ensuring your dog gets meals that are both nutritious and eco-friendly. Regenerative farming isn’t just a trend - it’s a way to provide premium nutrition while protecting the planet for future generations.

Pet Health & Regenerative Agriculture | NHP Podcast Ep 54 | Dr Judy Morgan & Dr Zach Bush

What is Regenerative Farming?

At the core of premium dog food lies a commitment to ingredient quality, and regenerative farming plays a big role in achieving that. This method of farming focuses on restoring and improving ecosystems through sustainable land management practices [11]. By prioritizing soil health and biodiversity, regenerative agriculture takes a much-needed step toward a healthier planet.

The philosophy behind regenerative farming stems from a powerful idea: agriculture is not just a linear process but a complex, interconnected web. As the Natural Resources Defense Council puts it, regenerative farming views agriculture as "a network of entities who grow, enhance, exchange, distribute, and consume goods and services" rather than a simple supply chain [7].

This approach challenges conventional farming methods, which often treat soil as nothing more than a physical support for plants. Regenerative farming, on the other hand, sees soil as a living, breathing ecosystem [9]. This distinction becomes even more important when you consider the state of global soil: nearly 25% of land is already degraded, and by 2050, 90% of soil could face the same fate, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization [8].

Leonard Diggs of Pie Ranch captures the essence of regenerative farming beautifully:

"We need to realize that working landscapes provide not just products but also ecosystem services like carbon sinks, water recharge, and evolutionary potential. We need agriculture that does not lose our carbon and does not deplete our people" [7].

The urgency for change is clear. In the U.S. alone, over one billion pounds of pesticides are used annually [8], and soil erosion from industrial farming outpaces natural soil formation by 10 to 100 times [7]. These practices not only harm the environment but also impact the nutritional value of the crops we rely on - for both human and pet diets.

Core Practices of Regenerative Farming

Regenerative farming uses several key strategies to rebuild soil health and promote thriving ecosystems. These methods focus on reducing soil disturbance and encouraging biodiversity.

No-till farming: Instead of plowing, farmers leave the soil undisturbed. This helps preserve the underground network of microbes, fungi, and other organisms that are crucial for nutrient cycling and plant health [7].
Crop rotation and diversification: By rotating crops, farmers prevent nutrient depletion and break cycles of pests and diseases. This natural approach improves soil resilience and nutrient content [12].
Cover cropping: Planting crops specifically to protect and enrich the soil during off-seasons prevents erosion, adds organic matter, and supports beneficial insects and microbes.
Integrated livestock management: Reintroducing animals into farming systems boosts nutrient cycling. For example, a study by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation found that switching to rotational grazing reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 42% and significantly cut pollution [14].
Reducing synthetic inputs: Regenerative farmers aim to limit the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Instead, they rely on natural processes to enhance soil fertility and manage pests [7].

Together, these practices create healthier soils, which in turn produce more nutrient-dense crops.

How Healthy Soil Creates Better Ingredients

Healthy soil is the backbone of regenerative farming and directly impacts the quality of ingredients used in pet nutrition. Soil health is the top priority in regenerative organic agriculture [10].

Rich, living soil contains countless beneficial microbes and organisms that transfer essential nutrients to crops and naturally protect them [13]. This dynamic ecosystem simply cannot be replicated by conventional farming methods.

The results are impressive. Studies show that vegetables grown regeneratively contain 21% more nutrients than USDA averages, while pastures managed regeneratively boast 500% more nutrients than degraded ones nearby [15]. Livestock raised on these nutrient-rich pastures also benefit, producing higher-quality meat with superior nutritional profiles.

Healthy soil also improves water retention, making crops more drought-resistant and reducing irrigation needs [7]. Additionally, regenerative practices can sequester up to 250 million metric tons of CO₂-equivalent annually in the U.S. alone [7].

For premium dog food, these benefits translate directly into better ingredients. Crops grown in regeneratively managed soil are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that support canine health. When processed with care, such as through freeze-drying, these ingredients retain their nutritional value, resulting in dog food that truly nourishes from the ground up.

As Duncan Cameron, a soil and plant biology professor at the University of Sheffield, puts it: "The regenerative agriculture movement is the solution. It is a pragmatic framework to farming with the lowest possible footprint" [9].

This nutrient-rich approach is a game-changer for creating high-quality ingredients essential for premium dog food.

Nutritional Benefits of Regeneratively Farmed Ingredients

Regenerative farming doesn’t just improve soil health - it also produces ingredients packed with nutrients. Research shows that crops grown using regenerative methods contain higher levels of magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, and essential vitamins, all of which are key to promoting canine health [1].

For example, grains and legumes grown regeneratively can have up to 20% more protein. Regenerative wheat, in particular, boasts impressive increases in minerals like calcium (48% more), magnesium (29% more), boron (41% more), and zinc (56% more) compared to wheat grown conventionally [1][2]. These nutrients are vital for strong bones, proper muscle function, and a healthy immune system.

Vitamins also get a boost from these farming practices. Regeneratively grown crops can deliver 34% more vitamin K, 15% more vitamin E, 14% more vitamin B1, and 17% more vitamin B2. On top of this, they contain 11% more calcium, 16% more phosphorus, and 27% more copper [2]. These nutrient-rich crops are also lower in harmful substances like sodium, cadmium, and nickel, providing cleaner and safer nutrition. Additionally, they offer higher omega-3 fatty acid levels and a healthier balance of omega-6 to omega-3, which can help reduce inflammation, support brain health, and promote a shiny coat and healthy skin [2]. This nutrient density directly supports muscle strength, energy, and overall vitality in dogs.

A study from the University of Texas highlights a concerning trend: between 1950 and 1999, the nutrient content of key compounds like phosphorus, iron, calcium, protein, ascorbic acid, and riboflavin dropped by 9% to 38%. Regenerative farming offers a way to reverse this decline [2][4].

How Freeze-Drying Preserves Nutritional Value

Processing can often strip away nutrients, but freeze-drying is a method that helps preserve them. This process uses sublimation - where ice turns directly into vapor - to remove moisture while maintaining the elevated nutrient levels of regenerative crops.

Freeze-drying locks in the higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, zinc, and copper, ensuring that the nutritional benefits of regeneratively farmed ingredients remain intact in the final product [2]. It also preserves natural flavors and aromas, making the food more appealing to dogs.

More and more raw dog food producers are combining nutrient-rich, regeneratively farmed ingredients with freeze-drying technology to deliver the best possible nutrition for pets [1]. As John Grossmann, president of ADM’s North American oilseeds crush and grain division, explains:

"Modern pet owners increasingly prioritise products that align with values such as environmental stewardship and ethical sourcing...they want products they believe are good for both the planet and for their pets" [3].

Thanks to freeze-drying, the nutritional advantages of regeneratively farmed ingredients are preserved, ensuring your dog gets premium nutrition with every meal.

Benefits of Regenerative Farming for the Planet

Reducing Farming's Impact on the Planet

Regenerative farming offers a way to heal the planet while producing better crops. Consider this: global food systems are responsible for a third of greenhouse gas emissions, use 70% of the world’s freshwater, and drive 90% of tropical deforestation [16]. Agriculture, forestry, and other land use together contribute about 20% of all greenhouse gas emissions worldwide [18]. These numbers highlight just how critical it is to adopt farming methods that work with nature rather than against it.

The environmental advantages of regenerative farming are hard to ignore. These methods can cut greenhouse gas emissions, enhance biodiversity, reduce nutrient pollution, protect against soil erosion, and improve freshwater availability [16]. One standout benefit is its ability to boost water retention. For every 1% increase in organic matter, soil can retain up to 30,000 liters of water per hectare [17]. This means less reliance on irrigation and a better defense against flooding during heavy rains.

Another major upside is that regenerative farming reduces the pressure to clear more natural habitats for agriculture [16]. By increasing the productivity and sustainability of existing farmland, it helps preserve forests, grasslands, and other ecosystems. This not only benefits the environment but also ensures the long-term availability of high-quality ingredients - something that directly supports supply chain stability for industries like pet food production.

Long-Term Sourcing for Pet Food Brands

Regenerative farming doesn’t just restore ecosystems - it also secures a reliable supply of nutrient-rich ingredients, which is crucial for top-tier dog nutrition. Pet food companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of these practices in creating resilient supply chains that can keep up with consumer demand. And the demand is real: 42% of global pet owners are looking for pet food made with sustainably sourced ingredients, 66% are concerned about climate change and want to make a difference, and 63% of U.S. pet owners aged 18-34 prefer brands that minimize their environmental impact [3].

Big names in the pet food industry are already making moves. Companies like Mars are investing heavily in regenerative agriculture by collaborating with farmers to adopt techniques like cover crops, no-till farming, and smarter fertilizer use. Mars, for example, has set a goal to implement regenerative practices across more than one million acres by 2030 as part of their broader mission to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 [3].

Jon Peattie, senior vice president of commercial at Mars Petcare US, emphasizes the company’s commitment:

"At Mars, we recognize that an important part of achieving our climate goals is addressing the environmental footprint of our ingredients... Our commitment to regenerative agriculture is a key component of our broader sustainability strategy. These partnerships reflect our dedication to reducing our environmental impact, supporting farmer livelihoods, and helping to ensure a resilient supply chain for the long term" [19].

For premium brands like Loyal Saints, regenerative sourcing provides a dual benefit: it ensures a steady supply of high-quality, nutrient-dense ingredients while actively contributing to environmental restoration. Deri Watkins, regional president at Mars Pet Nutrition Europe, highlights the broader impact:

"Through these partnerships, we're extremely proud to be playing our part in driving regenerative agriculture practices across Europe, restoring soil health, cutting carbon and building a stronger and more sustainable supply chain for farmers and future generations of pets and pet parents" [3].

This approach creates a win-win scenario. Pet owners can feel good knowing they’re feeding their dogs premium, nutritious food while supporting farming practices that help heal the planet. It’s a step toward ensuring that future generations of pets - and their humans - can enjoy a healthier, more sustainable world.

How to Find Dog Food Made with Regeneratively Farmed Ingredients

Finding dog food made with regeneratively farmed ingredients might seem like a challenge, but it’s becoming more manageable as more brands adopt these practices. The trick is knowing how to recognize trustworthy products and where to find credible information about a brand’s sourcing methods. A great starting point is to check for certifications that confirm regenerative farming practices.

Reading Labels and Certifications

The easiest way to identify dog food made with regenerative ingredients is to look for third-party certifications. These certifications ensure that farms and brands meet strict standards to earn their credentials.

One of the most trusted certifications in this field is Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC). To qualify, producers must first meet organic certification standards and then fulfill additional requirements for soil health, animal welfare, and fair treatment of farmworkers [20]. As of April 2025, the ROC program includes 307 certified farms and ranches, 2,040 certified products, and 233 licensed brands [5].

Other certifications to look for include Land to Market Verified Regenerative and A Greener World's Certified Regenerative by AGW [20]. While ROC focuses on specific farming practices, others are outcome-based, measuring tangible results like healthier soil [5].

Melissa Bauer from the Pet Sustainability Coalition emphasizes the importance of rigorous certifications:

"You don't want a certification that's just a pay-to-play model. You want something that has a third-party verification assessment and process" [21].

Be cautious of brands without third-party certifications. Urvashi Rangan from FoodPrint explains:

"Some companies are setting a low bar by making misleading regenerative claims based on one or two practices. Truly regenerative means meeting a comprehensive set of principles and practices" [20].

Interestingly, consumer awareness of regenerative agriculture remains low - only 19% of consumers recognize the term "regenerative agriculture", compared to 59% who are familiar with "organic" [20]. If you don’t see certifications on a product’s packaging, don’t hesitate to reach out to the company directly. Ask about their sourcing practices, partnerships with regenerative farms, and whether they plan to pursue third-party verification [21].

Loyal Saints' Commitment to Quality Ingredients

Loyal Saints is a standout example of a brand dedicated to sourcing high-quality, regeneratively farmed ingredients. Their approach starts with selecting suppliers who prioritize soil health, ethical animal treatment, and sustainable farming methods.

All of Loyal Saints’ products are made in the USA using human-grade ingredients, ensuring that every component meets strict quality standards. This commitment extends to their freeze-drying process, which locks in nutrients while preserving the integrity of the carefully sourced ingredients. The result? Nutrient-rich meals for dogs that also support environmentally conscious farming.

Transparency is at the heart of Loyal Saints’ mission. For today’s pet owners - especially the 63% of Americans aged 18–34 who prefer brands that minimize their environmental impact [3] - this level of openness is a big draw. Loyal Saints not only shares details about their ingredient sourcing but also ensures their products are free from additives and fillers, letting the natural benefits of regeneratively farmed ingredients take center stage.

Additionally, Loyal Saints’ formulations are veterinarian-approved, ensuring that the nutritional value of their ingredients translates into real health benefits for dogs. As the movement toward regenerative agriculture gains momentum, Loyal Saints continues to lead the way, offering pet owners a sustainable and responsible choice for their furry companions’ nutrition.

Conclusion: Why Regenerative Farming Matters for Premium Dog Nutrition

Regenerative farming provides nutrient-packed ingredients that enhance premium dog food. Research highlights that crops grown through regenerative methods boast a richer nutrient profile, which directly supports canine health [1] [2]. This approach counters decades of nutrient depletion, ensuring dogs get the vitamins and minerals they need to thrive.

When crops are cultivated in healthy, revitalized soil without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, they naturally develop higher levels of essential nutrients. Dr. Patrick Holden, founder of the Sustainable Food Trust, puts it best:

"Soil is the foundation of health - for plants, animals, people and the planet. Without it, nutrient density in food declines" [6].

Beyond nutrition, regenerative farming also addresses environmental concerns [22]. With 66% of global pet owners expressing concerns about climate change and seeking eco-friendly choices, sustainable farming practices resonate strongly with modern consumers [3]. This approach not only supports the planet but also ensures a steady supply of high-quality ingredients for premium dog food.

Brands like Loyal Saints showcase how regenerative farming can elevate pet nutrition. By sourcing human-grade ingredients from farms committed to soil health and sustainability, Loyal Saints creates freeze-dried dog food that combines exceptional nutritional value with environmental responsibility. Their dedication to transparency and ethical sourcing gives pet owners confidence that they're providing their dogs with meals that are both nutrient-dense and responsibly produced.

The freeze-drying process preserves the nutrients in regeneratively farmed ingredients, ensuring each meal supports optimal canine health. This thoughtful combination of sourcing and processing results in dog food that not only nourishes pets but also contributes to a healthier planet.

As John Grossmann from ADM notes:

"Modern pet owners increasingly prioritise products that align with values such as environmental stewardship and ethical sourcing... Ultimately, they want products they believe are good for both the planet and for their pets" [3].

Regenerative farming offers exactly that - a solution that delivers healthier, nutrient-rich ingredients while restoring the land that sustains us all.

FAQs

How does regenerative farming improve the quality of ingredients in premium dog food?

Regenerative farming takes ingredient quality to the next level by focusing on soil health and biodiversity, which naturally boost the nutrient profile of crops. Methods like crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tilling help enrich the soil, leading to plants packed with more essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

What’s more, these techniques steer clear of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, resulting in cleaner, safer ingredients for your dog. By incorporating crops grown through regenerative practices, premium dog food can provide nutrient-rich, wholesome meals that contribute to your pet's health and vitality.

How does regenerative farming benefit the environment and improve the quality of premium dog food?

Regenerative farming offers a range of environmental perks while boosting the quality of ingredients found in premium dog food. By embracing techniques like crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage, this farming method enhances soil health, promotes biodiversity, and helps lower carbon emissions. Healthier soil leads to nutrient-packed crops, which means your dog's food is made with ingredients rich in essential nutrients.

On top of that, regenerative farming cuts back on the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This reduces harmful runoff into waterways, safeguarding ecosystems. These eco-friendly practices not only help the planet but also ensure your pet enjoys top-quality, all-natural ingredients in their meals.

How can I tell if a dog food brand uses regeneratively farmed ingredients and supports sustainability?

To find dog food brands using ingredients from regenerative farming, start by checking the packaging or visiting the brand's website. Look for terms like organic, non-GMO, or ethically sourced, and keep an eye out for certifications tied to sustainable or regenerative farming practices. Companies focused on these efforts typically make them easy to spot.

Dig deeper into the brand’s transparency about their sourcing and farming methods. Many share details through blogs, FAQs, or even customer service. Choosing dog food from brands that align with regenerative agriculture not only supports your furry friend’s well-being but also helps promote a healthier planet.