Friday, April 19, 2024

Blue Buffalo Puppy Food Review

Blue Buffalo Weight Management Formula

Dog Food Review: Blue Buffalo

Blue Buffalo has several weight management formulas across its sub-brands. Life Protection has three different healthy weight options, as does the Wilderness range.

Blue Freedom, Basics, and True Solutions also have weight management formulas.

Finally, Natural Veterinary Diet includes a weight management option plus urinary care.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice For Senior Dogs

This Life Protection recipe has been developed specially for dogs in the last quarter of their lives. Its protein and fat levels are on the minimum bracket, so I think it suits inactive older dogs who exercise for about half an hour a day.

The fiber content is fairly high here, so if your dog has digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation, this food can help.This recipe contains low levels of both glucosamine and chondroitin, which work together to protect her joints. As they are small amounts, I would suggest this food to older dogs prone to joint conditions but not yet displaying symptoms.

This dog food is a good choice for those dogs prone to diseases such as cancer, as the high levels of antioxidants here will support your older dogs immune system and work to keep her cells healthy.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food Ingredient Analysis

All Blue Buffalo dog food recipes featured here are soy, wheat, and grain free. They also neglect artificial flavors and preservatives. All of the formulas claim to be beneficial to your dog’s health however as an example we will take one product from our list and break down some of the key inredients for you to consider.

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Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Formula Review

Our Rating 4.6/5 Stars

We all know that dogs descended from wolves, which begs an obvious question why dont we feed them that way? The Blue Buffalo Wilderness line represents a solution for owners who want to feed their pups like the omnivores they truly are. Wilderness is a grain-free puppy food with high protein content thats been gaining in popularity since its release.

The reason why this food had its success with pups is the ingredients list which supported natural foods like chicken, bison, fish oil, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

  • Contains One 11-Lb Bag Of Blue Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken
  • Always Features Real Meat As The 1St Ingredient. High-Quality Protein From Deboned Chicken Plus Chicken And Fish Meal Helps Build And Maintain Strong Muscles….

Wilderness Puppy is also complete and balanced, following the AFFCO standards to meet all your puppys unique needs as they grow and change. Its also made with highly digestible, quality protein to build strong muscle, DHA to help with brain and retinal development, and the right blend of minerals to build strong and healthy bones and joints.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food Formulas Reviewed

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Chicken and Brown ...

Blue Buffalo Dog Food offers different formulas, including wet and dry dog foods, dog treats, and toppers. To help pet owners find the best recipe for their dogs, we have reviewed several formulas.

Summary: This product contains a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been put together by renowned vets and animal nutritionists. The dog food is high in protein as it contains real chicken, which encourages muscle growth. It also contains DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mothers milk, which support cognitive development and retinal health. It contains other ingredients that help promote the healthy development of your dogs body and mind.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Puppies and adult dogs

Flavor Options: Red meat Chicken Turkey

Price: $2.7/pound

  • Some dogs might not like the crunchy texture

Ingredient Analysis

  • Deboned Chicken: Most Blue Buffalo homestyle meals contain deboned chicken that provides the required protein to your dogs diet
  • Peas: This is a great source of plant protein, and it also gives a nice texture to the food. Additionally, it also contains other beneficial nutrients.
  • Fish Meal: Helps reduce inflammation in your dogs body. Also, it is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin & coat health.
  • Sweet Potatoes: These complete the requirement of carbs in your dogs meal. They are a common ingredient in most adult dry dog foods.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Puppies and adult dogs

Price: $2/pound

Cons

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Nine Blue Buffalo Puppy Food Choicesfour Blue Wilderness Puppy Foods

Life Protection Formula: Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice RecipeLife Protection Formula: Puppy Lamb & Oatmeal RecipeLife Protection Formula: Small Breed Puppy Chicken & Oatmeal RecipeLife Protection Formula: Large Breed Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice RecipeBlue Freedom Grain-Free Puppy Chicken RecipeBlue Freedom Grain-Free Puppy Beef RecipeBlue Freedom: Grain-Free Puppy Chicken RecipeBlue Freedom: Grain-Free Large Breed Puppy Chicken RecipeBlue Basics: Puppy Turkey & Potato RecipeBlue Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe: Puppy BisonBlue Wilderness: Puppy Chicken RecipeBlue Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe: Puppy Red Meat DinnerBlue Wilderness: Large Breed Puppy Chicken Recipe

I analyze dog foods based on the system developed by Sarah Irick’s Rating Scale which provides a number and letter grade based on an analysis of the ingredients in any type of food.

For the purposes of this Blue Buffalo Puppy Food review, I examined a couple of the Life Protection Formulas, the Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice, Puppy Lamb & Oatmeal and the Small Breed Puppy Chicken.

Since all three of these foods are relatively similar and all came out with the same score, I have clumped them together as a group. The following information for this Blue Buffalo Puppy Food Review is provided on the Blue Buffalo website.

Overview Of Blue Buffalo

Bill and Jackie Bishop began to take an interest in pet health issues when their Airedale, Blue, started suffering from health problems. This led them to develop Blue Buffalo Dog Food, which contained only the finest natural ingredients to promote a strong immune system.

Blue Buffalo dog food does not contain by-product meals, wheat, corn, or soy proteins, nor artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. As far as I can see, none of their recipes contain dairy or egg, either. They produce two grain-free lines of dog food, a Limited Ingredient line, and an antioxidant-rich Life Protection line.

All of their foods contain LifeSource Bits, small dark kibbles with a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been “cold-formed” to help retain the potency of their ingredients. These bits include whole source ingredients from a range of fruit and veg.

Blue Buffalos motto is Love them like family. Feed them like family, a sentiment I believe shines through in the formulation of their recipes.

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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice For Puppies

This recipe is specifically developed for puppies, who need a special diet as they are growing up. The protein and fat levels are pretty high, so I think it suits more active puppies.

The omega-3s are high here, coming from fish oil and flaxseed, so it is a good choice for pups with long coats, as well as for those suffering from itchy, sore skin.

There are no ingredients for joint support, so, in my opinion, its not the best choice for puppies prone to joint problems.

As with all Life Protection recipes, it is not grain-free, so if your puppy has shown signs of sensitivity to grains, you should opt for a different food.

Finally, the high-antioxidant blend here will help protect your dogs immune system and give her a good, healthy start in life.

Is Blue Buffalo A Good Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Dog Food Review | Is this Dog food brand recommended?

Yes, Blue Buffalo Dog Food is good.

The quality of ingredients used to produce the Blue Buffalo dry and wet dog foods is excellent. All recipes feature real meat as the main ingredient, with no filler or poultry by-products used.

Offering high-protein and homestyle recipes, the brand makes its formulas on recommendations by animal nutritionists and veterinarians. They are loaded with high-quality protein, glucosamine, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them suitable for both large and small dogs.

Plus, the brand provides detailed accessibility to the ingredients that they use. And finally, most of the brands products are available and highly rated on online platforms like Amazon and Chewy.

Also Check: How Good Is Blue Dog Food

Which Types Of Dogs Might Do Better With A Different Brand

All dogs in any stage of life can benefit from the delicious and nutritious recipes offered by Blue Buffalo. However, when it comes to your dog, their preference is vital. While this company prides itself on providing only the most beneficial food for your pets, some dogs may simply not enjoy the taste.

If you find that your dog turns their nose up at the Blue Buffalo brand, you might try Pure Balance or similar food. This brand has many of the same benefits with different recipes, so you can find one that works best for your pooch.

In addition to canine preference, you may find that you simply cant commit to the cost each time you purchase food. Blue Buffalo is a premium dog food. While it isnt at the highest end of the scale, it is still somewhat costly.

If you are looking for a cheaper option thats still a healthy selection, you might try Diamond Naturals or a similar brand. They have a wide variety of delicious meals that your pet can benefit from.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dog Food Natural Dry Dog Food For Adult Dogs Chicken And Brown Rice 30 Lb Bag

  • REAL MEAT FIRST: Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient. High-quality protein from real chicken helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles. Plus they contain wholesome whole grains, garden veggies and fruit.
  • FOR ADULT DOGS: BLUE Life Protection Formula adult dog food contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs, and features omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
  • WITH LIFESOURCE BITS: This formula contains BLUEs exclusive LifeSource Bits a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists, to support immune system health, life stage requirements, and a healthy oxidative balance.
  • A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals. BLUE contains NO chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
  • Contains one 30 lb. Bag of BLUE Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice

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Blue Buffalo Life Protection

The Life Protection range is specifically designed for puppies and small breeds. While it is a grain-inclusive formula, it doesnt contain cheap fillers like corn, wheat, or soy.

Life Protection is fortified with LifeSource Bits for building a healthy immune system and improving your dogs skin and coat condition.

You can expect an average feeding cost of $0.94 for puppies, and $1.37 for small breed adults or seniors.

If you have small dogs or are looking to feed your puppy a well-rounded and balanced diet, then this specially-formulated kibble from Blue Buffalo Life Protection is highly recommended for your pet.

Has Blue Buffalo Dog Food Been Recalled

Blue Buffalo Blue Wilderness Chicken Senior Dry Dog Food, 4.5 lbs ...

Yes, Blue Buffalo Dog Food has been recalled. To be more precise, the company has three recalls.

In March 2017, there was a voluntary recall of Wilderness Rocky Mountain Red Meat Dinner Wet Food due to a high level of naturally-occurring beef thyroid hormones that cause restlessness, increased heart rate, weight loss, urination, and increased thirst.

The Food and Drug Administration reported a single pet parent whose dog developed these symptoms and later recovered. Blue Buffalo investigated and decided to recall the batch.

In October 2010, a scientist at the Michigan State University investigated why dogs around the country were falling sick. It found that these dogs had high levels of vitamin D in their blood. 16 of these dogs were eating the BLUE Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe diet.

The company recalled all bags of BLUE Basics Salmon Recipe, BLUE Buffalo Wilderness Chicken, and BLUE Life Protection Adult Large Breed Chicken Recipe, having the best before dates of 7/12/11 through 10/26/11.

And finally, in April 2007, there was a voluntary recall of many pet foods and one batch of Buffalo baked dog treats. They contained rice protein obtained from Wilbur-Ellis, which was contaminated with melamine before arriving Blue Buffalo production facility.

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What Is The Nutritional Value Of Blue Buffalo Dog Food Recipes

The nutritional value of the Blue Buffalo recipes ranges from average to above-average dry dog food.

As a group, the Blue Buffalo brand features a moderate level of protein, a high level of fat, and an average level of carbs which is a satisfactory proportion of nutrients for dogs.

Blue Buffalo dog food recipes are a great option for those looking to balance cost and quality.

Do Blue Buffalo Dog Food Recipes Include Chicken

Some Blue Buffalo Dog Food recipes include chicken. This may be in the form of a chicken meal, but not chicken meal by-products. Some recipes also include chicken fat which is obtained by rendering the chicken.

Are Blue Buffalo Dog Foods produced from slaughterhouse waste?

Blue Buffalo Dog Food doesnt use chicken by-product meals. using organs, feet, beaks, and other unwanted cuts.

When you feed your pet with dog foods that include by-product meals, the nutritional quality can be low and thus unhealthy for your pup.

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Blue Buffalo Dog Food Ingredients Quality

Blue Buffalos main marketing point is ingredient quality. They pride themselves in:

  • Using no animal by-product meals.
  • Using no artificial colouring and preservatives.
  • Using no corn, wheat or soy.
  • Providing grain free alternatives.
  • Use real meat as a first ingredient.

The resultant diet is a diet made from premium ingredients. Despite the company being young, their products have already suffered a number of recalls, putting into question their quality control protocols.

Blue Buffalo Freedom Adult Chicken Grain

Blue Buffalo vs. Purina One® Dog Food

Dogs that have food sensitivities need a special diet that limits the number of ingredients they consume.

Blue Buffalos Adult Chicken recipe from the Freedom line has real chicken, potatoes, pea protein, blueberries, cranberries, and flaxseed.

Its made with LifeSource Bits and antioxidants and no by-products or meat meals.

This dog food recipe is rated at 4.3 stars, with a daily feeding cost of $1.51.

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Is Blue Buffalo Good Dog Food

Overall, Blue Buffalo is an excellent brand in the pet food market. Its products contain high-quality named protein sources and well-digested grains or grain-free carbohydrate sources. Moreover, the ingredients do not include gluten, wheat, corn, soy, or artificial additives. Value for money, Blue is one of the best options for dogs. Due to the wide range of products, you are sure to find the right recipe for your pooch.

What Company Owns Blue Buffalo Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Dog Food is a family business that was founded in 2002. In 2018, the brand had grown significantly and was acquired by General Mills for $8 billion.

The company also owns brands like Haagen-Dazs, Pilsbury, Annies, Inc, and Epic Provisions.

In the third quarter of 2021, Blue Buffalo raked in $436 million in sales, with $1.29 billion in sales over the nine months of 2021.

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Do Vets Recommend Blue Buffalo

Some vets recommend, and some dont recommend Blue Buffalo products. This varies from individual to individual, as each expert may have different experiences and opinions. But lets not forget that the companys products were developed with the help of veterinarians and animal nutritionists. Also, the brand has a line of Veterinary Diet products.

Blue Basics Limited Ingredient

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Natural Puppy High Protein Grain Free Chicken ...

This Blue Basics Limited Ingredient dog food with turkey and potato is an excellent choice for dogs who enjoy the taste of poultry but cant have chicken. Rather than having any grain or multiple proteins, turkey is the single protein source.

There are 347 calories per cup and a total of 20.0% crude protein. Deboned turkey is the first ingredient, followed by oatmeal, brown rice, turkey meal, and potatoes. This combination provides adequate protein, carbohydrates, and overall nutrition.

While this food is ideal for pets who need limited ingredients in their diets, looking over the label is crucial. There could still be small measurements of ingredients that could serve as irritants for sensitive dogs.

With the Blue Basics Limited Ingredient Formula, salmon is used as the single protein source. There are no animal byproducts, but salmon meal is used as a source of glucosamine. The first several ingredients are deboned salmon, oatmeal, brown rice, salmon meal, peas, and potatoes.

This combination of ingredients provides a healthy balance of carbohydrates and protein for immunity and muscle. It has 20.0% crude protein and 362 calories per cup.

Some dogs do not handle fish that well. So, while it is a limited-ingredient diet, they may still show a sensitivity to the type of protein used. Similarly, some dogs have a problem with other carbohydrate additives, so be sure to check with your vet before introducing this to your pets diet.

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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food Natural Dry Dog Food For Adult Dogs Chicken And Brown Rice 15 Lb Bag

  • REAL MEAT FIRST: Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient. High-quality protein from real chicken helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles. Plus they contain wholesome whole grains, garden veggies and fruit.
  • SMALL BREED DOG FOOD: Specially formulated for the wellness of adult small breed dogs, BLUE Life Protection Formula Small Breed dry dog food contains increased levels of protein and carbohydrates
  • WITH LIFESOURCE BITS: This formula contains BLUEs exclusive LifeSource Bits a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists, to support immune system health, life stage requirements, and a healthy oxidative balance.
  • A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dog foods are made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals. BLUE contains NO chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.Calorie Content: 3,648 Kcals/kg, 397 Kcals/cup
  • Contains one 15 lb. Bag of BLUE Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice

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