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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Exceptional ingredient quality with 96% animal content from New Zealand grass-fed, free-range sources, using whole meats and organs rather than meals or by-products.
• Proprietary air-drying process preserves raw nutrition while creating shelf-stable food, offering convenience of kibble with nutrient retention of minimally processed diets.
• Extremely high calorie density at 427-474 calories per cup means small portions but also potential weight gain issues for less active dogs.
• Premium pricing at $16-18 per pound creates monthly costs of $135-400+ depending on dog size, making it financially prohibitive for many households with larger breeds.
• Perfect safety record with no recalls since founding and consistent palatability success, even with notoriously picky eaters and dogs with food sensitivities.
Walking into a specialty pet store and seeing Ziwi Peak’s distinctive packaging, you immediately know you’re looking at something different. The small bags, the premium price tags, the bold claims about New Zealand sourcing—it all signals that this isn’t your average kibble. But before we get into whether it’s worth the investment, let’s start with what this brand actually stands for.
Founded in the early 2000s in New Zealand, Ziwi Peak emerged from a simple but ambitious idea: create dog food that mirrors what dogs would eat in the wild, using only the highest-quality ingredients available. The brand’s name itself reflects this philosophy—”Ziwi” is a nod to the kiwi bird, New Zealand’s national symbol, while “Peak” represents the pinnacle of pet nutrition the company aims to achieve.
What sets Ziwi Peak apart from the start is its commitment to 100% New Zealand sourcing. Every piece of meat, every organ, every mussel comes from New Zealand farms and waters. This isn’t just a marketing angle—New Zealand has some of the strictest animal welfare and food safety standards globally, and the country’s grass-fed, free-range farming practices align perfectly with Ziwi’s positioning as an ethical, premium brand.
The company’s core values center on three pillars: ethical sourcing, minimal processing, and nutritional integrity. Ziwi Peak follows the Māori concept of kaitiakitanga—guardianship of the land and sea—which means they’re not just thinking about today’s profits but about sustainable practices that protect resources for future generations. It’s a philosophy that resonates with pet owners who care about where their money goes.
Ziwi Peak operates its own manufacturing facilities in New Zealand, with the main production site—the “Super Kitchen”—located in Awatoto, Hawke’s Bay. This facility opened in 2022 after the company relocated from its original Tauranga location, investing heavily in state-of-the-art equipment and expanded capacity. Having full control over production is rare in the pet food industry, and it gives Ziwi Peak the ability to maintain strict quality standards at every step.
The brand’s signature innovation is its Z-TWINTECH air-drying process, which preserves raw nutrition while creating a shelf-stable product that doesn’t require refrigeration. More recently, Ziwi introduced Z-MicroSteam technology for its Steam & Dried line, combining gentle cooking with air-drying to offer an option that addresses food safety concerns some owners have with fully raw diets.
Ziwi Peak has positioned itself firmly in the ultra-premium segment, competing with brands like Stella & Chewy’s, Primal, and Orijen. The brand exports to over 35 countries and has become New Zealand’s largest pet food exporter, which speaks to both its global appeal and its success in building trust with discerning pet owners worldwide.
In terms of reputation, Ziwi Peak consistently scores at the top of expert reviews. DogFoodAdvisor gives it 5 out of 5 stars, and veterinary-reviewed sites like Wag! award it perfect scores with bonus points for ethical sourcing. Perhaps most importantly, the brand has no recall history as of October 2025—a clean safety record that’s increasingly rare as the pet food industry faces more scrutiny.
| Price per pound | $16 – $18 |
| Primary protein | Beef, Chicken, Lamb, Venison, Mackerel, Tripe |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (all life stages) |
| Formula options | 3 product lines (12+ recipes) |
| Availability | Specialty pet stores + online |
One thing worth noting: in 2021, Ziwi Peak was acquired by FountainVest Partners, a Chinese private equity firm. While the company maintains that operations, quality standards, and New Zealand-based production remain unchanged, this ownership shift is something to keep an eye on. Historically, private equity acquisitions in the pet food space have sometimes led to cost-cutting or quality compromises, though there’s no evidence of that happening here yet.
Let’s get into what’s actually in the bag. Ziwi Peak’s ingredient philosophy is straightforward: lots of meat, minimal plant matter, and nothing artificial. The brand’s air-dried recipes contain 96% animal-based ingredients, which is genuinely exceptional. For context, many premium kibbles hover around 60-70% animal content, with the rest coming from grains, legumes, or other plant sources.
Every Ziwi Peak recipe starts with whole, named meats as the first ingredient—beef, lamb, venison, chicken, mackerel, or tripe, depending on the formula. These aren’t meat meals or by-products; they’re actual cuts of muscle meat. Following the primary protein, you’ll find organ meats like liver, kidney, tripe, and lung, which provide concentrated vitamins and minerals that muscle meat alone can’t deliver.
What I find impressive is the inclusion of ground bone in the recipes. This provides natural calcium and phosphorus in ratios that dogs’ bodies recognize and absorb efficiently. It’s a whole-prey approach that mimics what wild canines would consume, and it eliminates the need for synthetic mineral supplements in large quantities.
One ingredient that appears across all Ziwi Peak formulas is New Zealand green-lipped mussel. This isn’t filler—it’s a functional ingredient rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. For dogs with joint issues or those at risk for arthritis, this natural source of joint-supporting compounds is genuinely beneficial. Many joint supplements contain these same compounds in isolated form, so getting them directly from whole food is a nice bonus.
The air-dried line keeps carbohydrates minimal—around 13% on a dry matter basis. The small amount of plant matter comes from prebiotic ingredients like dried apple pomace, inulin, and parsley. These support digestive health and gut flora without adding significant carbs or empty calories.
The newer Steam & Dried line takes a slightly different approach, incorporating vegetables and fruits like pumpkin, peas, quinoa, blueberries, and kiwi. This increases the carbohydrate content moderately but adds fiber, antioxidants, and micronutrient diversity. It’s still a meat-first formula, just with more produce than the air-dried recipes.
Ziwi Peak’s “no” list is as important as its ingredient list. You won’t find grains, potatoes, legumes, meat meals, rendered fats, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. There are no pea proteins or other plant-based protein boosters used to inflate protein percentages on paper. The protein you see on the label comes entirely from animal sources.
For preservation, Ziwi uses mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) and citric acid—both natural, safe preservatives that prevent fat oxidation without the health concerns associated with synthetic options like BHA or BHT.
Every ingredient in Ziwi Peak comes from New Zealand, where farming practices emphasize grass-fed, free-range, and sustainably caught proteins. The beef is grass-fed and grass-finished, the poultry is free-range, and the seafood is wild-caught. New Zealand’s animal welfare standards prohibit the use of added hormones and routine antibiotics, which means you’re getting cleaner proteins by default.
The brand’s commitment to ethical sourcing isn’t just marketing—it’s verifiable through New Zealand’s stringent food safety regulations and the country’s Ministry for Primary Industries oversight. This level of transparency and traceability is rare in the pet food industry.
Numbers on a label only tell part of the story, but they’re still important. Ziwi Peak’s macronutrient profile reflects its high-meat, low-carb philosophy, and the numbers are quite different from what you’ll see in typical commercial dog foods.
The air-dried line delivers between 44% and 51% protein on a dry matter basis, depending on the recipe. The beef recipe, for example, sits at 44%, while others push even higher. This is significantly above AAFCO’s minimum requirements and well above what most kibbles offer. For active dogs, working breeds, or those with high energy needs, this protein density is genuinely beneficial.
What matters as much as the quantity is the quality. Because all protein comes from whole animal sources—not plant proteins or low-quality by-products—the biological value is high. Your dog’s body can actually use these proteins efficiently for muscle maintenance, repair, and energy.
Fat content in Ziwi Peak is also notably high, ranging from 23% to 35% on a dry matter basis. The beef air-dried recipe, for instance, contains about 35% fat. This makes the food extremely calorie-dense—around 427 to 474 calories per cup for the air-dried line.
High fat isn’t inherently bad, but it does require consideration. For highly active dogs, working breeds, or those who struggle to maintain weight, this energy density is perfect. For sedentary dogs, seniors, or breeds prone to pancreatitis, it might be too rich. This isn’t a food you can free-feed to most dogs without risking weight gain.
With carbs sitting around 10-13% in the air-dried line, Ziwi Peak is among the lowest-carb dog foods available. Dogs don’t have a dietary requirement for carbohydrates—they can derive energy from proteins and fats—so this low-carb approach aligns with canine physiology. The Steam & Dried line has slightly more carbs due to added produce, but it’s still well below the 40-50% carb content you’d find in many grain-based kibbles.
Beyond macros, Ziwi Peak shines in micronutrient density. The inclusion of multiple organ meats provides natural sources of vitamins A, D, E, and B-complex, along with minerals like zinc, iron, and selenium. The use of chelated minerals—minerals bound to amino acids for better absorption—is a premium touch you typically only see in high-end formulations.
The green-lipped mussel contributes omega-3 fatty acids in the form of EPA and DHA, which support joint health, brain function, and anti-inflammatory processes. The omega-3 to omega-6 ratio isn’t explicitly published, but given the fish and mussel content, it’s likely favorable compared to poultry-heavy foods.
Because Ziwi Peak is so calorie-dense, feeding amounts are much smaller than with typical kibble. A 30-pound moderately active dog might need only about 2 cups of air-dried food per day, compared to 3-4 cups of standard kibble. This means bags last longer than you might expect, which helps offset the high per-pound cost somewhat.
The Steam & Dried line is less calorie-dense at around 300 calories per cup, which makes portion control easier for dogs who need to watch their weight. The canned line varies by formula but generally falls between 200 and 470 calories per 6-ounce can.
Ziwi Peak isn’t a one-size-fits-all food, and that’s actually a good thing. Its specific nutritional profile makes it better suited for some dogs than others. Let’s break down who benefits most from this food and who might be better served by something else.
Active and working dogs are ideal candidates for Ziwi Peak. The high protein and fat content provide sustained energy for dogs who genuinely burn a lot of calories—think agility dogs, hunting breeds, hiking companions, or working farm dogs. If your dog comes home tired after hours of activity, this food will support their recovery and energy needs beautifully.
Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies often thrive on Ziwi Peak, particularly the single-protein canned formulas. The limited ingredient approach and absence of common allergens like grains, potatoes, and legumes make it a solid choice for elimination diets. If your dog has been itching, licking paws, or dealing with chronic ear infections, switching to a clean, limited-ingredient food like Ziwi’s beef or venison canned formula might help identify or eliminate triggers.
Picky eaters tend to respond well to Ziwi Peak’s palatability. The high meat content, strong aroma, and concentrated flavor make it appealing even to dogs who turn their noses up at other foods. Many owners report that their finicky dogs finally eat enthusiastically after switching to Ziwi.
Small breed dogs benefit from the calorie density—they need nutrient-dense food because they can’t eat large volumes. A small dog can meet its nutritional needs with just a handful of Ziwi Peak, and the smaller feeding amounts make the high cost more manageable.
All life stages are covered, as most Ziwi Peak formulas meet AAFCO standards for both growth and maintenance. Puppies, adults, and seniors can all eat the same food, which simplifies things for multi-dog households. The high protein supports puppy growth, while the omega-3s and glucosamine help maintain joint health in older dogs.
Overweight or low-activity dogs might struggle with Ziwi Peak’s calorie density. If your dog is already carrying extra weight or spends most of the day lounging on the couch, the high fat content could lead to further weight gain unless you’re very precise with portions. The Steam & Dried line is a better option for these dogs, but even then, careful monitoring is needed.
Dogs prone to pancreatitis should avoid the air-dried line entirely. With fat content reaching 35%, it’s simply too rich for dogs with sensitive pancreases or a history of pancreatitis episodes. Even the lower-fat canned line (around 25% fat) might be pushing it for these dogs—consult your vet before making the switch.
Budget-conscious owners need to be realistic about the cost. At $16-18 per pound, Ziwi Peak is among the most expensive dog foods available. For large or giant breed dogs, the monthly food bill can easily exceed $300-400. If that’s not sustainable for your household, there are excellent mid-premium options that offer good quality at a fraction of the price.
Dogs with specific medical conditions requiring prescription diets (kidney disease, liver disease, specific urinary issues) should stick with veterinary-formulated foods. Ziwi Peak is a premium maintenance food, not a therapeutic diet.
Nutritional profiles matter, but they’re meaningless if your dog won’t eat the food. Palatability is where Ziwi Peak consistently shines, though there are a few practical considerations worth discussing.
The overwhelming majority of user reviews mention that dogs love the taste of Ziwi Peak. The high meat content, strong aroma, and concentrated flavor make it appealing to most dogs, including notoriously picky eaters. Venison and lamb formulas seem to be particular favorites, though beef and chicken also receive strong marks for acceptance.
The air-dried texture is unique—it’s crispy like kibble but less hard, and it crumbles easily. Some dogs prefer it slightly moistened with water, which releases even more aroma and makes it softer. The Steam & Dried line has a lighter, airier texture that some dogs find even more appealing.
Ziwi Peak offers six flavors in the air-dried line: beef, chicken, lamb, mackerel & lamb, tripe & lamb, and venison. The Steam & Dried line has three options: beef with pumpkin, chicken with orchard fruits, and lamb with green vegetables. The canned line includes beef, venison, chicken, and mackerel & lamb.
This variety allows for rotation feeding, which can help prevent boredom and reduce the risk of developing sensitivities to any single protein. However, compared to brands with dozens of formulas, Ziwi’s range is more focused. For most dogs, six to ten options is plenty, but if your dog has multiple protein allergies, the choices narrow quickly.
Because Ziwi Peak is so different from typical kibble—higher in protein and fat, much lower in carbs—a gradual transition is important. Most owners report success with a 7-10 day transition period, gradually increasing Ziwi while decreasing the old food. Rushing this can lead to loose stools or digestive upset, not because the food is low quality, but because your dog’s gut needs time to adjust to the richer formula.
Once adjusted, most dogs handle Ziwi Peak well. User reviews frequently mention firmer, smaller stools—a sign of high digestibility. When more of the food is absorbed and used by the body, there’s less waste. This is a practical benefit for owners, too: less to clean up in the yard and less odor.
The air-dried and Steam & Dried lines are shelf-stable, which is a huge convenience advantage over truly raw or fresh foods. No refrigeration needed, no thawing, no mess. You can take it on trips, store it in a cupboard, and scoop it like kibble.
The canned line is standard wet food—open, serve, refrigerate leftovers. The 6-ounce and 13.75-ounce cans are BPA-free, which is a nice touch for those concerned about packaging safety.
Portion sizes are small due to calorie density, which means bags last longer than you’d expect. A 2.2-pound bag might seem tiny for $36, but for a small to medium dog, it could provide a week or more of meals.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Ziwi Peak is expensive. At roughly $16-18 per pound, it’s one of the priciest dog foods on the market. Whether it’s worth the cost depends entirely on your priorities, your dog’s needs, and your budget.
For a 30-pound moderately active dog, feeding the air-dried line exclusively would cost approximately $4.50-5.00 per day, or $135-150 per month. For a 60-pound active dog, that jumps to around $8-10 per day, or $240-300 per month. Large and giant breeds can easily exceed $400 per month.
The Steam & Dried line is somewhat more affordable at around $3-4 per day for a 30-pound dog, thanks to lower calorie density requiring slightly larger portions but at a lower per-pound price point.
The canned line is the most expensive on a per-calorie basis, potentially costing $10-15 per day for a medium dog if fed exclusively. Most owners use canned as a topper or occasional meal rather than the sole diet.
The high price reflects several factors: New Zealand sourcing (one of the most expensive agricultural regions globally), 96% animal content (meat is expensive), ethical farming practices (free-range and grass-fed cost more than factory farming), proprietary air-drying technology, and company-owned manufacturing with strict quality controls.
You’re also paying for what’s not in the food: no cheap fillers, no meat meals, no synthetic additives. Every ingredient serves a nutritional purpose.
If Ziwi Peak appeals to you but the cost feels prohibitive, consider these approaches:
Use it as a topper. Mix a small amount of Ziwi Peak with a more affordable base food. This gives you the palatability and nutrient boost of Ziwi without the full cost. Many owners find this works well for picky eaters or dogs transitioning from lower-quality foods.
Choose the Steam & Dried line. It’s more affordable than air-dried while still offering high meat content and quality ingredients. For dogs who don’t need maximum calorie density, it’s a sensible middle ground.
Feed selectively by life stage or activity. Use Ziwi Peak during high-demand periods—puppy growth, pregnancy/lactation, intense training, competition seasons—and switch to a mid-premium food during lower-activity times.
Buy larger bags. Per-pound cost decreases with larger package sizes. If storage isn’t an issue and your dog tolerates the formula well, buying in bulk saves money.
In the ultra-premium space, Ziwi Peak is priced similarly to Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried and Primal raw. It’s notably more expensive than high-end kibbles like Orijen or Acana, which cost around $4-6 per pound. Compared to fresh food delivery services like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie, Ziwi Peak is roughly comparable in monthly cost for small dogs but becomes more economical for larger dogs since you’re not paying for the weight of moisture and shipping.
If you’re considering fresh food delivery, comparing Ziwi Peak to those services makes sense. Not sure whether to choose Ziwi Peak or a fresh delivery option? Read our other review on dog food from Gentle Giants to see how another premium brand approaches quality and pricing.
Understanding how and where your dog’s food is made matters, especially when you’re paying premium prices. Ziwi Peak’s approach to manufacturing and quality control is one of its genuine strengths.
Ziwi Peak operates its own manufacturing facilities in New Zealand, with the primary production site—the “Super Kitchen”—located in Awatoto, Hawke’s Bay. This 12,000-square-meter facility opened in 2022 after the company relocated from its original Tauranga location. The investment in this new facility signals commitment to scaling up while maintaining quality.
Owning the manufacturing facilities gives Ziwi Peak direct control over every aspect of production, from ingredient receiving through final packaging. This is increasingly rare in the pet food industry, where many brands contract with co-packers and have less oversight over day-to-day operations.
The air-drying process is central to Ziwi Peak’s identity. Ingredients are laid out and exposed to warm, circulating air that slowly removes moisture while preserving nutrients. This method retains more vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids compared to high-heat extrusion (the process used for most kibble) or even traditional baking.
The newer Z-MicroSteam technology for the Steam & Dried line adds a gentle cooking step before air-drying. This kills potential pathogens while still maintaining nutritional integrity better than conventional processing. For owners who want the benefits of raw feeding but worry about bacterial contamination, this middle-ground approach makes sense.
Ziwi Peak follows New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) food safety programs, which include HACCP-style risk management. The company conducts batch testing for nutritional content, microbial pathogens (including Salmonella), heavy metals, mycotoxins, and chemical residues.
Ingredient traceability is maintained at the batch level, meaning if an issue were to arise, the company could trace ingredients back to specific farms and suppliers. This level of transparency and accountability is what you should expect from any premium brand.
Ziwi Peak has no reported recalls through October 2025. In an industry where even respected brands have faced recalls for contamination or nutritional imbalances, maintaining a clean record for over two decades is noteworthy. It suggests that the quality control systems in place are effective and that the company takes food safety seriously.
For many pet owners, how a brand impacts the environment and treats animals matters as much as the nutrition it provides. Ziwi Peak positions itself strongly on these values, though there are areas where more transparency would be welcome.
Every protein in Ziwi Peak comes from free-range, grass-fed, or wild-caught sources in New Zealand. The country’s animal welfare standards prohibit factory farming practices common in other parts of the world, and animals are raised without added hormones or routine antibiotics. This isn’t just marketing—it’s verifiable through New Zealand’s regulatory framework.
The brand’s commitment to the Māori concept of kaitiakitanga—guardianship of land and sea—reflects a long-term view of sustainability. This philosophy emphasizes protecting resources for future generations, not just maximizing short-term profits.
New Zealand’s grass-fed farming systems have a different environmental footprint than intensive feedlot operations. Grass-fed animals generally produce lower greenhouse gas emissions per pound of meat when managed well, and the pasture-based systems support soil health and biodiversity. However, shipping products globally does add carbon emissions, and Ziwi Peak doesn’t publish detailed environmental impact data or carbon offset initiatives.
The air-drying process is energy-intensive, though likely less so than the high-heat extrusion and baking used for most kibble. The company hasn’t released specific data on energy use or renewable energy adoption in manufacturing.
Ziwi Peak uses BPA-free cans for its wet food line, which is a positive step for consumer safety. The air-dried and Steam & Dried lines come in plastic bags, which are standard for the industry but not ideal from a sustainability standpoint. Information on recyclability or use of recycled materials in packaging isn’t prominently featured, which is an area where the brand could improve transparency.
One gap in Ziwi Peak’s public communications is the lack of formal Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reports or third-party sustainability certifications. While the brand clearly emphasizes ethical sourcing and animal welfare, publishing concrete metrics—carbon footprint, water use, waste reduction goals—would strengthen credibility and allow consumers to make more informed choices.
The 2021 acquisition by FountainVest Partners, a Chinese private equity firm, raises questions about long-term priorities. Private equity ownership can sometimes lead to cost-cutting or shifts away from sustainability initiatives in favor of short-term profitability. As of now, there’s no evidence of this happening, but it’s worth monitoring.
I work at a dog shelter where we regularly test different foods to see how various dogs respond, especially when we’re trying to find the right nutrition for dogs with specific needs or histories. For this test, we chose Ziwi Peak’s air-dried beef recipe and introduced it to a dog named Maple, a five-year-old mixed breed (likely some kind of cattle dog and terrier blend) who came to us about three months ago.
Maple’s story is fairly typical for shelter dogs: she was surrendered by an owner who could no longer keep her, and she arrived underweight with a dull coat and some digestive sensitivity. She’s not a picky eater—quite the opposite, actually—but she’d been having inconsistent stool quality on the standard shelter kibble we use, which made us think she might benefit from something more digestible and nutrient-dense.
When we first opened the bag of Ziwi Peak, Maple was immediately interested. The aroma is strong—definitely meaty, almost like jerky—and she started sniffing around the moment we poured it into her bowl. There was no hesitation at all; she dove right in. For a dog who’s been through the stress of shelter life, that kind of immediate acceptance is always a good sign.
Over the two-week trial period, Maple ate the Ziwi Peak consistently and enthusiastically. We did a gradual transition over the first few days, mixing it with her regular food, and she had no issues adjusting. By day four, she was on 100% Ziwi Peak, and her meal times became noticeably quicker—she’d finish her portions in under a minute, which is fast even for her.
One thing we noticed was that she seemed more satisfied after meals. With the previous kibble, she’d sometimes nose around her empty bowl or look for scraps, but with Ziwi Peak, she’d eat and then settle down calmly. Whether that’s due to the higher protein and fat content keeping her fuller longer, or just the palatability making the meal more rewarding, it’s hard to say—but the behavior change was clear.
The most noticeable change was in stool quality. Within about five days, Maple’s stools became consistently firm and well-formed, with noticeably less volume. This is exactly what you’d expect from a highly digestible food—more nutrients absorbed means less waste. For shelter staff managing outdoor areas, this practical benefit is significant.
Her coat condition improved over the two weeks, though subtly. She came in with a coat that was a bit rough and lackluster, and by the end of the trial, there was a slight increase in shine and softness. Two weeks isn’t enough time for dramatic coat changes, but the early signs were promising.
In terms of energy levels, Maple seemed about the same—she’s naturally a moderate-energy dog, enjoys her walks and play sessions but isn’t hyperactive. We didn’t see a big shift in her activity, which is fine; she was already in a healthy range behaviorally.
From a practical standpoint, feeding Ziwi Peak was easy. The food doesn’t require refrigeration, scoops cleanly, and doesn’t create dust like some kibbles do. The portion sizes were small—Maple needed only about a cup and a half per day, split into two meals—which meant the 2.2-pound bag we used lasted longer than we initially expected.
The only minor downside was the crumbliness. The air-dried pieces sometimes broke apart into smaller bits at the bottom of the bag, which isn’t a quality issue but does make scooping slightly messier. Adding a bit of water to the food before serving solved this and seemed to make it even more appealing to Maple.
Overall, Maple responded well to Ziwi Peak. The improvements in digestion and stool quality were clear and practical benefits, and her enthusiasm for the food made meal times straightforward. For a dog recovering from the stress of shelter life and needing to gain some weight and condition, the nutrient density and palatability worked in her favor.
Real-world feedback from long-term users often reveals things that short-term tests or nutritional analysis can’t capture. Ziwi Peak has a strong track record in user reviews, though there are patterns worth noting—both positive and negative.
The most frequent positive feedback centers on palatability. Owner after owner mentions that their picky eaters finally found a food they love, or that their dog gets visibly excited at meal times. For dogs who’ve been difficult to feed, this alone can be worth the premium price.
Coat and skin improvements are mentioned in roughly half of long-term reviews. Owners report shinier coats, softer fur, less shedding, and reduced itching or hot spots. These changes typically appear after several weeks to a few months of consistent feeding, which aligns with the time it takes for dietary changes to affect skin and coat health.
Digestive health gets consistent positive mentions. Firmer stools, smaller stool volume, reduced gas, and fewer digestive upsets are common themes. For dogs with sensitive stomachs or chronic digestive issues, many owners report that Ziwi Peak was the first food that worked reliably.
Energy and vitality improvements are noted particularly by owners of active or working dogs. Dogs seem to maintain stamina better, recover faster after exercise, and generally seem more vibrant. This makes sense given the high-quality protein and fat content supporting sustained energy.
The number one complaint is price. Even owners who love the food and see clear benefits often mention that the cost is difficult to sustain long-term, especially for larger dogs. Some use it as a topper or rotate it with less expensive foods to manage the budget.
A small percentage of dogs—perhaps 10-15% based on review patterns—simply won’t eat it or lose interest after initial acceptance. This seems to happen more often with dogs who are extremely picky or after formula changes. Flavor preferences vary; what works for one dog might not appeal to another.
Digestive issues are reported in a minority of cases, usually during the transition period or in dogs with particularly sensitive systems. Some owners mention loose stools or increased gas, particularly with the higher-fat air-dried formulas. For dogs prone to pancreatitis or with very sensitive digestion, the richness can be too much.
Weight gain is mentioned occasionally, usually in less active dogs or when owners don’t adjust portions carefully. The calorie density means even small overfeeding can lead to extra pounds over time. Careful portion control and regular weight monitoring are important.
Owners who stick with Ziwi Peak for years tend to be highly satisfied and loyal to the brand. They’ve seen tangible health benefits, their dogs eat it consistently, and they value the ingredient quality and ethical sourcing. For these owners, the cost is justified by the results.
The owners who stop using it usually do so for financial reasons rather than dissatisfaction with the product itself. Life changes, multiple dogs, or large breed appetites make the cost unsustainable, but they often speak positively about the food even when explaining why they switched to something more affordable.
Ziwi Peak doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Understanding how it stacks up against other premium options helps put its strengths and weaknesses in perspective.
Stella & Chewy’s is probably Ziwi Peak’s closest competitor. Both offer raw-inspired, minimally processed foods with high meat content. Stella & Chewy’s uses freeze-drying rather than air-drying, which preserves nutrients similarly but creates a lighter, crunchier texture. Price-wise, they’re comparable. Stella & Chewy’s has a wider variety of formulas and proteins, while Ziwi Peak emphasizes its New Zealand sourcing and ethical farming. Both are excellent choices; preference often comes down to whether your dog prefers the texture of freeze-dried versus air-dried, and whether New Zealand sourcing matters to you.
Primal is another raw-focused brand offering freeze-dried and frozen raw options. Primal is slightly less expensive than Ziwi Peak and offers more variety in proteins and formulas, including novel proteins like rabbit and goat. However, Primal uses some U.S.-sourced ingredients alongside others, so if single-country sourcing and traceability are priorities, Ziwi Peak has the edge.
Orijen and Acana are often mentioned as alternatives for owners who want high-quality ingredients but prefer traditional kibble. Both brands use fresh, regional ingredients and high meat inclusion (though not as high as Ziwi Peak’s 96%). They’re significantly less expensive—roughly $4-6 per pound versus Ziwi’s $16-18—which makes them more accessible for larger dogs or tighter budgets.
The trade-off is processing method. Kibble requires high-heat extrusion, which degrades some nutrients and requires more synthetic vitamin supplementation. Ziwi Peak’s air-drying preserves more of the natural nutrition. If you can afford it and your dog does well on it, Ziwi Peak offers a step up in nutrient retention and ingredient purity. If budget is a concern, Orijen or Acana provide excellent quality at a more manageable price.
Brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Nom Nom offer fresh, gently cooked meals delivered to your door. These services provide high moisture content, human-grade ingredients, and personalized portion plans. Monthly costs are comparable to Ziwi Peak for small to medium dogs, though fresh food becomes more expensive for larger breeds due to the weight of water content and shipping.
The main difference is convenience and storage. Fresh food requires freezer space and thawing, while Ziwi Peak is shelf-stable. Fresh food provides more moisture, which benefits hydration, while Ziwi Peak offers more concentrated nutrition per ounce. Both approaches have merit; the choice depends on whether you value the convenience of shelf-stable food or the hydration and whole-food appeal of fresh meals.
Ziwi Peak’s unique combination of ultra-high meat content (96%), New Zealand sourcing, air-dried processing, and shelf stability creates a niche that few competitors occupy. If these factors align with your priorities—and your budget allows—it’s genuinely one of the best options available. If any of those factors is less important to you, there are excellent alternatives that offer strong quality at lower price points.
To summarize and expand on the suitability question: Ziwi Peak is best suited for active adult dogs, working breeds, performance dogs, and dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The high protein and fat content support the energy needs of dogs who genuinely burn a lot of calories, while the limited ingredient formulas help manage sensitivities.
Puppies can eat Ziwi Peak, as most formulas meet AAFCO standards for growth. The nutrient density supports healthy development, though portion control is important to avoid overfeeding. For large and giant breed puppies, consult your vet to ensure calcium and phosphorus ratios are appropriate for controlled growth.
Small breed dogs benefit from the calorie density—they can meet their needs with small portions, and the cost becomes more manageable when you’re only feeding a cup or less per day. The palatability also helps with picky small breeds who can be notoriously difficult to feed.
Senior dogs can thrive on Ziwi Peak, especially if they’re maintaining good body condition and activity levels. The omega-3s and glucosamine from green-lipped mussels support joint health, which is beneficial as dogs age. However, if your senior is less active and prone to weight gain, choose the lower-fat Steam & Dried line or reduce portions carefully.
Ziwi Peak is not ideal for overweight dogs, low-activity dogs, or dogs with pancreatitis unless you’re using the lower-fat options and monitoring closely. It’s also not suitable for dogs requiring prescription diets for medical conditions—stick with veterinary-formulated foods in those cases.
Here’s my honest take: Yes, Ziwi Peak is excellent dog food—arguably one of the best on the market in terms of ingredient quality, nutrient density, and ethical sourcing. The 96% animal content, New Zealand grass-fed and free-range proteins, minimal processing, and clean safety record justify its place at the top of the premium category.
But “excellent” doesn’t automatically mean “right for everyone.” The price is genuinely prohibitive for many households, especially those with large dogs or multiple pets. At $16-18 per pound, you’re looking at monthly food bills that rival or exceed what some people spend on their own groceries. If that’s not sustainable for you, there’s no shame in choosing a mid-premium brand that offers solid quality at a fraction of the cost.
For the right situation—active dogs, dogs with sensitivities, small breeds, owners who prioritize ingredient purity and ethical sourcing—Ziwi Peak delivers real value. The health benefits many owners report (better coat, improved digestion, sustained energy) aren’t just placebo effect or marketing; they’re the result of feeding genuinely nutrient-dense, highly digestible food.
Would I recommend it to a friend? Absolutely, if their budget allows and their dog fits the profile. For my friend with a highly active Border Collie who competes in agility, Ziwi Peak would be perfect. For my friend with a low-activity senior Basset Hound prone to weight gain, I’d suggest something lower in fat and calories—maybe Ziwi’s Steam & Dried line as a compromise, or a mid-premium option like Wellness CORE.
Would I buy it for my own dog? If I had a small to medium active dog with no budget constraints, yes. For a large or giant breed, I’d likely use it as a topper or rotational option rather than the sole diet, simply because the cost would be hard to justify long-term when excellent mid-premium options exist.
The bottom line: Ziwi Peak is genuinely premium dog food that lives up to its claims. It’s not overpriced relative to what you’re getting—the ingredient quality and processing justify the cost. But it’s still expensive in absolute terms, and that reality means it won’t be the right choice for everyone, even if their dog would thrive on it. Be honest with yourself about your budget, your dog’s needs, and your priorities. If Ziwi Peak checks all those boxes, you’re getting one of the best foods available. If it doesn’t, there are plenty of other good options that might fit better.
Ziwi Peak’s premium pricing reflects genuine quality factors: 96% New Zealand-sourced animal ingredients, ethical farming practices, proprietary air-drying technology, and company-owned manufacturing. For active dogs, those with food sensitivities, or small breeds where portions are manageable, many owners find the health benefits justify the cost. However, for large dogs or tight budgets, the monthly expense can easily exceed $300-400, making it unsustainable for many households. Consider your dog’s specific needs, activity level, and your long-term budget before committing.
Due to its high calorie density (427-474 calories per cup for air-dried formulas), Ziwi Peak requires much smaller portions than typical kibble. A 30-pound moderately active dog typically needs only about 2 cups per day, compared to 3-4 cups of standard kibble. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the package and adjust based on your dog’s body condition, activity level, and individual metabolism. The small portions mean bags last longer than expected, helping offset the per-pound cost.
Yes, most Ziwi Peak formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, including puppy growth. The high protein and nutrient density support healthy development. However, portion control is crucial to avoid overfeeding, especially for large and giant breed puppies where controlled growth is important. For large breed puppies, consult your veterinarian to ensure the calcium and phosphorus ratios are appropriate for proper skeletal development.
Ziwi Peak was acquired by Chinese private equity firm FountainVest Partners in 2021. The company maintains that all operations, quality standards, and New Zealand-based production remain unchanged. As of October 2025, there’s no evidence of quality compromises, and the brand maintains its clean recall record. However, historically, private equity acquisitions sometimes lead to cost-cutting, so it’s worth monitoring for any changes in ingredients, sourcing, or manufacturing practices over time.
The air-dried line uses traditional air-drying technology to preserve raw nutrition while creating shelf-stable food, with 96% animal content and higher calorie density. The Steam & Dried line combines gentle steam cooking with air-drying, addressing food safety concerns while maintaining nutritional integrity. Steam & Dried includes more vegetables and fruits, has slightly lower calorie density (around 300 calories per cup), and costs somewhat less. Both are excellent; choose based on whether you prefer maximum meat content (air-dried) or additional produce variety with enhanced food safety (Steam & Dried).
Ziwi Peak can be excellent for dogs with food sensitivities, particularly the single-protein canned formulas. The limited ingredient approach and absence of common allergens like grains, potatoes, legumes, and artificial additives make it suitable for elimination diets. However, always consult your veterinarian before changing foods for a dog with confirmed allergies, and introduce any new food gradually. The beef, venison, and lamb single-protein options are particularly useful for identifying trigger ingredients.
The air-dried and Steam & Dried lines are shelf-stable and don’t require refrigeration, even after opening. Store them in a cool, dry place in their original packaging or an airtight container. This convenience advantage over raw or fresh foods makes Ziwi Peak practical for travel and eliminates the need for freezer space. Only the canned line requires refrigeration of leftovers after opening, like any wet food.
Ziwi Peak’s high calorie and nutrient density means dogs need much smaller portions to meet their nutritional needs. With 96% animal content and minimal fillers, more of the food is actually usable nutrition rather than empty bulk. This concentrated nutrition means less volume is required, similar to how a small piece of steak is more satisfying than a large bowl of rice. The smaller portions also result in firmer, smaller stools since more nutrition is absorbed and less passes through as waste.
Senior dogs can thrive on Ziwi Peak, especially if they maintain good body condition and moderate activity levels. The omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine from New Zealand green-lipped mussels support joint health, which is beneficial for aging dogs. However, less active seniors prone to weight gain should be fed carefully—consider the lower-calorie Steam & Dried line or reduce portions accordingly. For seniors with specific health conditions requiring prescription diets, stick with veterinary-formulated foods.
Both Ziwi Peak and fresh food delivery services like The Farmer’s Dog offer premium nutrition with high-quality ingredients. Fresh services provide higher moisture content and human-grade preparation, while Ziwi Peak offers convenience through shelf-stability and concentrated nutrition. Cost-wise, they’re comparable for small to medium dogs, but Ziwi Peak becomes more economical for larger dogs since you’re not paying for water weight and shipping. Choose based on whether you prioritize convenience and concentrated nutrition (Ziwi Peak) or maximum freshness and hydration (fresh delivery).
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