Whole Earth Farms Dry Dog Food
Rating:
Whole Earth Farms Adult recipe is one of 2 kibble recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, turkey meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Other recipes: Small breed, turkey, salmon, pork, beef, puppy and more
- Price: $
- See both available recipes
This Whole Earth Farms product derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and turkey meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 47% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
A quality yet affordable, grain-inclusive kibble made by Merrick. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer reviewI recently switched to this food due to the recent controversy over Grain Free. This was the only affordable food I found with quality ingredients listed. My dogs love it and it will be the only food I fees from now on.
This Holistic Select formula derives most of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as anchovy and sardine meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 16% fat and 44% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
An exceptional grain-free dog food offering numerous recipe and flavor options. Highly recommended.
The Honest Kitchen Dog Food
The company makes and sells its dog food in dehydrated form. The dog food is made with organic and free-range chicken and human grade ingredients that are great for your dogs health. The dog owners just measure out the food and add water to prepare the meal.
Why Choose The Honest Kitchen Dog Food?
- All the recipes are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients
- The food is free from all kinds of GMOs and other additives
- All the food recipes are prepared in the US
A Veterinarians Perspective On Grain
A more recent trend in the pet food industry is the formulation of grain-free dog foods and grain-free cat foods that exclude foods like corn, wheat and soy from their ingredient list. This mirrors the latest get healthy human nutrition trend toward eliminating grains from the diet and unhealthy food additives such as gluten and high-fructose corn syrup.
While it may make sense for humans to adopt this diet, this cannot be directly applied in the same way to cat and dog nutrition. People may lose weight by substantially eliminating grain-based carbohydrates, but dogs and cats do not have the same metabolism or dietary requirements.
Read Also: Is Iams Dog Food Any Good
Best Big Brand Dog Food: Beneful
Michael J. Anacker, DVM, a veterinarian at the Hodes Veterinary Group in Mine Hill, New Jersey, currently feeds Beneful to his two labs, Munch and Chewi. But hes not loyal to just one brand. If theres a good deal on a brand or a patient returns food to the clinic because the pet didnt like it, then hell use that too, as long as the food is from a trusted dog food company. My philosophy is that all of the major pet foods are good quality foods with only subtle differences, he says. The larger companies are forever improving their foods and trying to beat their competitors. Therefore, if there is something wrong with a competitors food they would call them out on it ASAP. Here are 8 more things vets want you to know about your dogs food.
via chewy.com
Eagle Pack Dry Dog Food
Rating:
Eagle Pack Power Adult is one of 7 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, peas, chicken fat
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, large and giant breed, lamb, pork and more
- Price: $
- See all 7 available recipes
This Eagle Pack recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior kibble at an affordable price. Made by the same trusted company that also produces Wellness. Exceptional value. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer reviewShe seems to be shedding much less on Eagle Pack, and her coat condition is much better than it was. She has always been prone to itches and allergies, and she is no longer scratching herself all the time and gnawing the hair off of her paws. Im happy that this is a food that agrees with her. I wonder why I hadnt heard of Eagle Pack earlier, as I feel that it is a great food at a much more affordable price than other popular high-quality brands.
This Wellness Core formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey, as well as turkey and chicken meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Also Check: Does Petsmart Carry Rachael Ray Dog Food
Get The Latest Recipes Right In Your Inbox:
Keep your dog healthy and fit with this easy peasy homemade recipe its cheaper than store-bought and chockfull of fresh veggies!
I never thought I would be one of those dog owners who made homemade human food for their pups. Not in a million years.
But when Butters recently fell sick with an upset stomach, our vet advised us to feed him a bland diet chicken and rice without any kind of seasoning. So thats what we did we poached a chicken, shredded it in a food processor, and mixed in some white rice and fed him this bland diet for 3 days.
Thats when I started to do some research on homemade dog food, and I have been so amazed as to how many different kinds of vegetables dogs can have. And with the help of Balance IT, you can create so many different recipes for your pup!
Now the best part about making homemade dog food just like making anything at home is that you know exactly what is going into the dog bowl, and not any of that questionable gelatinous gunk from the canned food.
But its important to note that dogs have different nutrient requirements than humans for their proportional body size, such as:
Now this recipe here has a balance of 50% protein, 25% veggies and 25% grains, but the ratios can easily be adjusted to suit your pups breed and/or needs.
When Should Dogs Eat Mature Food
six to 12 months oldGrowth foods necessary at the puppy stage have higher protein levels and calorie counts to meet your pups developmental needs. But once your pup is six to 12 months old those needs change. Thats usually when your puppy is nearing his adult height and can transition to adult food.
Read Also: Rachael Ray Dog Food Petsmart
Diamond Naturals Dry Kibble
Rating:
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete is one of 13 kibble recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Other recipes: Large breed, small breed, puppy, senior, lamb, beef and more
- Price: $
- See all 13 available recipes
This Diamond Naturals formula derives most of its animal protein from chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 29% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Diamond Naturals was recently selected as one of our most affordable dog foods. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer reviewI own competitive English setter females. Im always looking for the best value per pound in what I feed my dogs. Over the past 25 years Ive tried many different foods and found that 30/20 or higher works best based upon the condition, looks, stamina, palatability and stool size, consistency and frequency. Ive fed this food before and found it is very close to, if not better than the Sport/Performance food it competes with!
This Nulo Freestyle recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey, as well as turkey and salmon meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 20% fat and 35% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
How To Shop For Dry Dog Food
As with anything else regarding your pet, a good place to start is talking to your veterinarian in this instance, about your dogs dietary requirements. Then look at the ingredient list on a bag of dry dog food. You can easily tailor a dry food diet to your pup’s unique needs because it is convenient and available in a variety of flavors, formulas from life-stage and breed-specific to weight management, says Ferris.
While your dog cant speak, their body can tell you a lot about whether or not youve picked the right brand of dry food, too. Dogs should have stools that are of normal consistency, formed and relatively easy to pick up, says Neuhauser, who also points out that a healthy coat and skin, and maintaining weight not gaining or losing too much are signs of good health.
When shopping for dog food, the Association of American Feed Control Officials , a nonprofit that helps set standards for animal feed and pet foods, recommends that you read the label, select a food based on your pets breed, age and health, and follow the manufacturers feeding guidelines. When it comes to ingredients like preservatives, Ferris suggests dog owners look for natural options over synthetic ones. Natural preservatives such as vitamin C, vitamin E and oils of rosemary, clove or other spices are better alternatives to chemical preservatives such as BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin, which are often added in dog foods, says Ferris.
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Best Overall: Royal Canin
Think of it as pet food fit for kings and queensRoyal Canin offers foods for all sorts of dogs: purebreds, young, old, large, and small. Plus, you can choose from wet and dry food options with this brand.
The companys values are inspiring: Not only do they focus on making food thats healthy for pets, but they are also intent on reducing their environmental impact. The company got its start in France in the 1960s, and has gone on to be an international brand, with food sold around the world. Royal Canin is available for sale at local pet foods stories and vet offices, as well as many popular online retailers.
But Not All Veterinarians Feel That These Claims Are Misplaced
Dr. Tom Lonsdale, Australian veterinary surgeon and author of Raw Meaty Bones, says that there is a systemic problem beginning with the relationship between veterinary colleges and major pet food companies.
For many years, the veterinary elite has enjoyed a comfortable ride on the back of the junk pet food Trojan horse. Junk food poisoning of pets is the worldwide norm, thanks to veterinary protection for the economic colonialists Mars, Nestle, and Colgate-Palmolive.
In the same video, Dr. Lonsdale goes on to state that major veterinary colleges are inappropriately linked to and influenced by Hills Pet Nutrition , Nestle Purina, and Mars.
Also Check: Grain Free Iams Dog Food
Why Do So Many People Distrust Veterinary Nutritional Advice
Fueling the trends towards distrust of veterinary nutritional advice is the idea that veterinarians really arent well-educated on nutrition, and that what they do know about nutrition comes straight from representatives of the largest pet food manufacturers.
Pet food consumer advocacy sites like TruthAboutPetFood claim that veterinarians only go through a couple of hours of nutrition classes, and that almost all of these classes are sponsored by large pet food companies like Hills Pet Nutrition, giving the vets of the future a biased perspective on companion animal nutrition.
In an article posted on the Feline Nutrition Foundation website, Andrea Tasi, VMD, a 1988 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, says that In my 4 years of veterinary school, I had one class, one semester long, on nutrition. Most of this course focused on which prescription diet to recommend for which disease and why. For well pets, I was taught to recommend Pick one dry food and stick with it.
In all likelihood, your veterinarian is not a veterinary nutritionist and isnt specifically qualified to talk about feline nutrition. The average veterinarian is not a nutrition specialist. In most cases, what a veterinarian has learned about nutrition comes from experience and continuing education, and not their years in veterinary school.
Whats The Best Dog Food
Our list includes 10 of the best dog food brands available on the market right now. Of course, not every dog needs the same, and there arent any universal products. You should always bear in mind your pets specific needs, health, and requirements, plus, stay in contact with your veterinarian who knows your dogs medical history and all his health issues then, you are the one who knows your canines preferences. With all that in mind, you will be able to find the best possible option vet recommended dog food. Our list is only suggestions, or inspiration, for you to learn all about the dog food and to start looking.
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Advantages Of A Premium Veterinary Diet
- all protein is of a high biological value and completely balanced
- no soybean products are used
- no added artificial colours or flavour enhancers
- optimal fibre levels
- fibre from beet-pulp
- correct balance of fatty acids
- highly palatable
Diet is as important for our pets as it is for us. To minimise the health risks associated with poor diet, like pet obesity, make sure your pet is eating the most suitable food for their breed and life stage.
Keep Your Pooch Happy And Healthy
Madeleine Burry has written about how to care for pets for more than 10 years. Her articles have appeared in AAA’s Via Magazine, PetCareRx, and other outlets.
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the bestproducts youcan learn more about ourreview process here.We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
The Spruce / Chloe Jeong
Best for Large Dogs: Purina at Chewy
The Pro line has plenty of options for large and giant dog breeds, which have different nutritional needs throughout their lives.
Best for Small Dogs: Wellness Pet Food at PetCo
To meet your small dog’s nutritional needs, this company packs plenty of calories into smaller kibble bites that are easy to chew.
Dogs arent necessarily super picky when it comes to what they eat. Havent we all observed them scrounging through the trash for a tasty bit of leftovers or a bone to gnaw on? But your poochs voracious appetite doesnt mean that just any food is a good option for dinneror breakfast or lunch.
When choosing a dog food brand, youll want to consider the ingredients that are used, along with the companys ethos. That is, youll want to feel confident that the company cares about your pets health and safety as much as you do.
Here are the best dog food brands on the market to keep your pup’s system in top shape.
Also Check: Iams Veterinary Formula Renal Plus Dry Dog Food
Vet Recommended Dog Food Comes With A Seal Of Approval From Those That Know Best Whats Best For Our Four
A healthy diet is essential for your dogs overall well-being. Not only that feeding the right type of food will make sure they are healthy, full of energy, and maintain optimal weight, but food can influence a myriad of common issues such as allergies or digestive problems. But how should you know which type of dog food is ideal for your pet? The safest bet is going for vet recommended dog food as these formulas have been either created by veterinarians or widely approved by them. This means that youve at least eliminated one big issue before narrowing down your choice- youll know that the food youve picked is something that an expert would advise you to give your pet and that there are no potentially problematic ingredients or lack of important nutrients.
Next, youll have to further customize the choice by considering your pets tastes, medical history, and your own budget. Some pooches prefer wet food, others love kibble, and some might need their diet to help them recover or keep in check a certain health problem, such as diabetes or obesity. To help you make the best choice, weve rounded up the best recommended dog food out there- all you have to do is pick one that will suit your pets requirements the best.
1. Editors choice: Hills Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit
2. Runner up: Royal Canin Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
3. Customers choice: Purina Pro Plan with Probiotics
Natural Balance Dog Food
All the Natural Balance Dog Food recipes are grain-free and have meat as their primary ingredient. The food comes in different varieties like duck, chicken, lamb, bison, fish, venison and beef and some vegetarian options also. Moreover, it also offers special food formulas for overweight and dogs with special needs.
Why Choose Natural Balance Dog Food?
- It is free from all kinds of artificial additives and colours
- It offers grain-free and other varieties of dog food
- They make specially formulated food for dogs with special dietary needs
Read Also: Darwin Raw Dog Food Reviews