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Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food Review (Dry)
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Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food Review (Dry)
By Mike Sagman
Updated: April 22, 2024
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Review of Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Food
Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food receives the Advisors second-lowest tier rating of 2.5 stars.
The Natural Balance Vegetarian product line includes one dry dog food, a recipe claimed to meet AAFCO nutrient guidelines for adult maintenance.
Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content
Brown rice, oat groats, barley, peas, potato protein, canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), potatoes, dicalcium phosphate, dried tomato pomace, natural flavor, calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, choline chloride, taurine, minerals (zinc proteinate, zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, iron proteinate, copper sulfate, copper proteinate, manganese sulfate, manganese proteinate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite), salt, vitamins (vitamin E supplement, vitamin A supplement, d-calcium pantothenate, niacin, riboflavin supplement, vitamin D2 supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, folic acid, biotin), flaxseed, dried spinach, parsley, cranberries, l-lysine monohydrochloride, l-carnitine, citric acid (used as a preservative), mixed tocopherols (used as a preservative), Yucca schidigera extract, dried kelp, l-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), rosemary extract
Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 5%
Red denotes any controversial items
| Guaranteed Analysis | 18% | 8% | NA |
| Dry Matter Basis | 20% | 9% | 63% |
| Calorie Weighted Basis | 19% | 21% | 60% |
Ingredient Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that (once cooked) can be fairly easy to digest. However, aside from its natural energy content, rice is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The second ingredient includes oat groats, a whole grain, minimally processed form of oats. With the exception of their caloric content and the fact theyre also gluten free, oat groats can be considered average in nutritional value.
The third ingredient is barley, a starchy carbohydrate supplying fiber and other healthy nutrients. However, aside from its energy content, this cereal grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The next ingredient includes peas. Peas are a quality source of carbohydrates. And like all legumes, theyre rich in natural fiber.
The fifth item is potato protein, the dry residue remaining after removing the starchy part of a potato.
Even though it contains over 80% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.
The sixth ingredient is canola oil. Unfortunately, canola can be a controversial item. Thats because it can sometimes (but not always) be derived from genetically modified rapeseed.
Yet others cite the fact canola oil can be a significant source of essential omega-3 fatty acids.
In any case, plant-based oils like canola are less biologically available to a dog than fish oil as a source of quality omega-3 fats.
The seventh inclusion is potato. Potatoes can be considered a gluten-free source of digestible carbohydrates. Yet with the exception of perhaps their caloric content, potatoes are of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The eighth ingredient is dicalcium phosphate, likely used here as a dietary calcium supplement.
The ninth ingredient is tomato pomace. Tomato pomace is a controversial ingredient, a by-product remaining after processing tomatoes into juice, soup and ketchup.
Many praise tomato pomace for its high fiber and nutrient content, while others scorn it as an inexpensive pet food filler.
Just the same, theres probably not enough tomato pomace here to make much of a difference.
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Natural Balance product.
With 4 notable exceptions
First, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.
Next, we note the use of taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient and we view its presence in this recipe as a positive addition.
Additionally, we note the presence of sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.
And lastly, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.
Nutrient Analysis
Natural Balance Vegetarian dog food is by design a meatless product.
So, although we do recognize the need for some dog owners to provide (for whatever reason) a completely meat-free diet, we also respect a dogs natural carnivorous bias.
For this reason, the highest rating awarded any vegetarian dog food found on this website can never exceed 2.5 stars.
That said, and before we determine our final rating, its still important to estimate how much plant-based protein might be present.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 20%, a fat level of 9% and estimated carbohydrates of about 63%.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Below-average protein. Below-average fat. And above-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
Our Rating of Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food
Natural Balance Vegetarian is a grain-inclusive dry dog food using a modest amount of potato protein as its dominant source of protein, thus earning the brand 2.5 stars.
Not recommended.
Has Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food Been Recalled?
The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls since 2009 related to Natural Balance.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.
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8 Best VegetarianDogFoods 2024 Reviews & Top Picks
Vegetarian and vegan dog foods are somewhat new alternatives to the dog food industry, often being overlooked for meat-based products. Regardless of the controversy of feeding vegetarian foods to canines, there are some dogs with serious health conditions that require meat-free diets, which can be challenging. Thankfully, there is a wide variety of plant-based dog food brands to choose from, ranging in ingredients, protein sources, and price. If youre looking for vegetarian or vegan dog food, here is our list of Best Vegetarian Dog Foods and their reviews:
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
The 8 Best Vegetarian Dog Foods
1. Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Food Best Overall
Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Food is a meat-alternative dog food designed for dogs that need a meat-free diet. Natural Balance uses a complete and balanced recipe with essential nutrients your dog needs, with the same vitamins and minerals as their meat-based recipes. Its completely plant-based, with a fiber blend to help aid in digestion. Its made with no meat or dairy products that may trigger certain health conditions, including protein allergies.
This recipe contains vital fatty acids with Omegas 3 and 6, which helps support your dogs coat and skin. Another great feature of this brand is that its relatively inexpensive for a specialized diet, which is often much more expensive than regular dog food. The only issue with this dog food is that it may cause indigestion in some dogs, even with the fiber blend. Except for this, we recommend trying Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog food if youre looking for the best vegetarian dog food overall.
- A complete and balanced recipe
- Plant-based with a fiber blend
- Made with no meat or dairy products
- Contains fatty acids for coat support
- Inexpensive for a specialized diet
- Can cause indigestion in some dogs
2. Wysong Dry Vegan Dog Food Best Value
Wysong Vegan Formula Dry Dog Food is a vegan dog food that can be fed to both dogs and cats. It uses a natural, plant-based formula with no animal by-products, which can be found in some vegetarian and non-vegan dry dog foods. It is also made with a flaxseed blend for essential fatty acids, giving your dog an animal-free source of Omega-3 and Omega-6. This vegan kibble also contains vitamins B-6 and B-12, two crucial vitamins for normal brain and nervous system function.
One great benefit of Wysong compared to other brands is that its inexpensive, so you wont have to spend more than youd like for a vegetarian diet. However, the big problem with the kibble is the lack of other essential nutrients, so youll have to feed your dog an additional protein source. Another issue we had is with the unnecessary corn and soy filler ingredients. Due to these two factors, we kept it from our #1 spot. Aside from those two details, we recommend trying Wysong Vegan Formula with another protein source as the best vegetarian dog food for the money.
- Natural plant-based formula
- Made with flax for fatty acids
- Contains B-6 and B-12 vitamins
- Inexpensive compared to other brands
- Needs an additional protein source
- Contains corn and soy fillers
3. Addiction Zen Vegetarian Dry Dog Food Premium Choice
Addiction Zen Vegetarian Dry Dog Food is a premium vegetarian kibble for dogs that need a meat-free alternative for certain health conditions. It features an all-natural blend made with oats, vegetables, and fruits, with no artificial ingredients like flavoring and food coloring.
This kibble is a complete diet with balanced nutrition, so your dog will get all the essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health and nourishment. It doesnt contain any dairy or meat ingredients, making it an ideal option for dogs with animal protein allergies and dairy sensitivity. Its also made with a natural source of fatty acids using canola oil, which helps nourish and soothe your dogs skin and coat.
Addiction Zen is on the expensive side compared to other vegetarian brands, especially if your dog is bigger than 25 pounds. Picky dogs may also refuse this brand, so we recommend trying Natural Balance if your dogs palette is selective. Pickiness aside, we find Addiction Zen Vegetarian Dry Dog Food to be a great premium option for your dog.
- Made with oats, veggies, and fruits
- A complete diet with balanced nutrition
- Contains no dairy or meat ingredients
- Natural source of fatty acids
- On the expensive side
- Picky dogs may not love this brand
4. V-dog Dry Vegan Dog Food
V-dog Vegan Dry Dog Food is a vegan dry dog food designed for to provide an eco-friendly, meat-free kibble for your dog. It features a natural blend of vegan-approved ingredients, made with peas as the main protein source. Another great feature of this dog food is the lack of fillers like dairy, corn, and soy, while also steering away from any animal products or byproducts.
This kibble is also a complete and balanced diet, so its made with all the essential nutrients your dog requires on a daily basis. However, its is expensive compared to other brands, comparable to the prescription diets offered by veterinarians. Another issue with this kibble is with the flavor, so pick dogs may refuse to eat this kibble. V-Dog also has been known to have inconsistent quality control between batches, which can be a health and safety concern for your dog.
For these reasons, we decided to keep it from our Top 3 picks. Otherwise, V-Dog Vegan Dry Dog Food can be a good option if youre new to vegan and vegetarian dog diets.
- A natural blend made with peas
- No animal, dairy, corn, or soy products
- A complete diet with essential nutrients
- Expensive compared to other brands
- Picky dogs may refuse this kibble
- Inconsistent quality control between batches
5. Natures Recipe Dry Dog Food
Natures Recipe Dry Dog Food is a vegetarian kibble that can be used as an elimination diet for dogs with animal protein allergies. It uses a soy-based protein meal blend instead of multiple protein sources, lowering the chance of allergic reactions to it. Its made with natural ingredients and vitamins for a balanced diet, which are sustainably sourced for a greener, eco-friendly product. It also contains fish-free sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are vital for healthy skin, coat, and immune system.
While this kibble seems great on the surface, it has a slightly strong chemical smell that can be unpleasant for you and your dog. It also wasnt too popular taste-wise with picky dogs, which is probably due to the artificial odor. Another potential issue is that it can cause indigestion in some dogs, so youre better off skipping this one if your dog has a sensitive stomach. If your dog new to vegetarian diets, we recommend trying other brands to lower the chances of stomach or allergy issues.
- Soy-based protein meal blend
- Natural ingredients for a balanced diet
- Contains fish-free sources of Omegas 3 and 6
- A slightly strong chemical smell
- May lead to indigestion in some dogs
- Picky dogs may not like the taste
6. Halo Vegan Dry Dog Food
Halo Vegan Dry Dog Food is an alternative to feeding your dog a traditional, animal-based dry kibble. Its made with a protein-rich blend of natural ingredients, all made with sustainably sourced, non-GMO ingredients. This dog food is a complete and balanced dog kibble that provides your dog with the daily required nutrition, so you wont need to add an additional protein source to this kibble. It also doesnt contain any meat, corn, or dairy products, so its an option for dogs with food sensitivities.
The first thing we noticed with Halo Vegan Dry Dog Food is that it can cause excess gas and other stomach problems, causing unnecessary discomfort in your dogs digestive system. Another problem we encountered is the flavor of this kibble, with some dogs not liking this flavor and refusing to eat it. Lastly, Halo Vegan dog kibble is an expensive, premium dog food, so its not the best choice if youre looking for a good value. For high-quality ingredients without the premium price, we recommend trying Natural Balance Vegetarian dog food first.
- A protein-rich blend of natural ingredients
- Complete and balanced dog kibble
- Contains no meat, corn, or dairy products
- Can cause excess gas
- Some dogs do not like the flavor
- Expensive premium vegan food
7. Purina Veterinary Diets Vegetarian Dry Dog Food
Purina Veterinary Diets Vegetarian Dry Dog Food is a prescription vegetarian dry dog food. Its designed with limited ingredients and nutrient sources for dogs with multiple allergies, with no artificial flavors or ingredients. Its made with a single hydrolyzed, plant-based protein, so its easier to absorb and reduces the risk of an allergic flareup. Its also made without meat or dairy ingredients, which can also cause reactions like itchy, red skin.
The problem is that Purina Veterinary Diets is expensive and requires a vet prescription, so its not something that is readily available. It also contains corn and soy ingredients that some dogs have reactions to, so youll have to skip this product if your dog has sensitivities to both of those filler ingredients. Lastly, some dogs simply didnt like this flavor, which is rare for Purina brand dog foods.
If your dog needs the limited ingredients and youve tried everything else, this might be an option. However, there are vegan and vegetarian brands available that may be better for your dog instead.
- Designed for dogs with allergies
- Single hydrolyzed plant-based protein
- Made without meat or dairy ingredients
- Expensive and requires a vet prescription
- Contains corn and soy ingredients
- Some dogs may not like the flavor
8. Petcurean Dry Recipe Vegan Dog Food
Petcurean Vegan Recipe Dry Dog Food is a vegan dry kibble that provides an eco-friendly, plant-derived diet for your dog. Its made with a single source of pea-based protein source, with no animal products or by-products that can cause itchy skin and other health issues. Its also made with flaxseed and sunflower oil blend to provide your dog with Omega-3 and Omega-6, which help improve and nourish your dogs skin and coat.
However, Petcurean Vegan Dry Dog Food has potential issues that outweigh any benefits. The first initial problem is that most dogs dont like the flavor, so you may not even know if your dog can benefit from this specific vegetarian diet. Another potential issue is excessive gas, which can be a dealbreaker for breeds that are already prone to gassiness. This kibble also has a strong artificial potato smell, even though its an all-natural food that shouldnt have anything artificial in it.
Lastly, it may not be the most expensive food, but Petcurean is still somewhat pricey compared to most meat-based dog foods. We recommend trying one of our Top 3 picks if youre looking for consistent results and a better value.
- Pea-based protein source
- Flax and sunflower oil blend
- Most dogs dont like the flavor
- May cause excessive gas
- Strong artificial potato smell
- Somewhat expensive vegan dog food
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Vegetarian Dog Food
After carefully reviewing and comparing each vegetarian dog food, the winner for best vegetarian dog food overall is Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Food. Its a high-quality dry kibble made with a complete and balanced diet, with no animal-derived products. For Best Value, the winner is Wysong Vegan Formula Dry Dog Food. While it does need an additional protein source, it is still much less expensive than other vegan dog food blends.
Hopefully, we have made it easier for you to find the right vegan or vegetarian brand for your dog. We looked for the best vegetarian dog food products with your dogs safety and health in mind. Remember, its always important to talk to your veterinarian before switching your dogs protein source. If youre not sure where to start, ask your vet for advice and recommendations for transitioning your dog to a plant-based diet.
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