Dehydrated Grain-Free Chicken Clusters vs Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Harvest Chicken Dog Food

Overview

Both The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Grain-Free Chicken Clusters and Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Harvest Chicken Dog Food are premium, ethical choices for conscientious pet owners. Each brand scores an impressive 92/100 on our ethics scale and carries a $$$ price point. The Honest Kitchen product is a dehydrated, grain-free cluster that rehydrates quickly, while Open Farm offers a freeze-dried raw formula designed to preserve nutrients without cooking. Both are chicken-based, non-GMO, and certified by leading ethical organizations.

Ethics diff

The key ethical difference lies in certification depth. The Honest Kitchen holds four major certifications: B Corp, Cruelty-Free, Certified Humane, and Non-GMO. Certified Humane ensures third-party verified animal welfare, a detail Open Farm lacks. Open Farm, however, is certified by Leaping Bunny (a stricter cruelty-free standard than the generic Cruelty-Free label) and holds B Corp and Non-GMO certs. While both are strong, The Honest Kitchen's Certified Humane badge gives it an edge in farm animal welfare for ethical shoppers who prioritize livestock conditions.

Everyday use

Texture and preparation differ notably. The Honest Kitchen clusters are dehydrated – you add warm water to create a soft, stew-like meal. They are easy to portion and gentle on digestion, ideal for dogs who prefer moist food. Open Farm's freeze-dried raw kibble can be served straight from the bag as a crunchy treat or rehydrated for a raw meal. It requires no cooking and retains more natural enzymes. For travel or quick feeding, Open Farm is more convenient; for dogs with dental issues or who enjoy a softer texture, The Honest Kitchen wins.

Value

Both are $$$, but value differs per use. The Honest Kitchen dehydrated clusters expand significantly when rehydrated, so a box may yield more servings than expected, potentially lowering the cost per meal. Open Farm's freeze-dried raw is calorie-dense and requires no water addition, making it more expensive per serving but requiring smaller portions. If your dog is a large breed, The Honest Kitchen may be more economical; for small dogs or occasional toppers, Open Farm offers concentrated nutrition without waste.

Bottom line

Both products are ethical standouts, but The Honest Kitchen edges ahead for shoppers valuing Certified Humane animal welfare. For those prioritizing strict cruelty-free standards (Leaping Bunny) or raw feeding convenience, Open Farm is equally excellent. The tie is close, but The Honest Kitchen's broader certification suite offers slightly more comprehensive ethical assurance.