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Natural Balance Dog Food Review (2024)

Natural Balance Dog Food Review

Introduction

In the dynamic world of pet nutrition, Natural Balance stands as a distinguished brand, celebrated for its dedication to creating high-quality, balanced diets that cater to the diverse needs of dogs. Recognized for its unique approach to pet health, Natural Balance offers formulations designed to promote overall well-being, prioritizing both the physical and emotional health of pets. This review explores Natural Balance Dog Food, highlighting its core philosophies, wide-ranging product line, and the distinct nutritional benefits that set it apart in a competitive field.

Combining real-world pet owner testimonials, insights from nutrition experts, and a thorough analysis in comparison with other brands, our objective is to provide a comprehensive guide that aids dog owners in making informed dietary choices for their pets. By focusing on the critical role that nutrition plays in a dogs health, longevity, and happiness, we emphasize the importance of selecting a diet that truly supports pets in leading joyful, healthy lives.

Company Overview

Natural Balance has established itself as a beacon of innovation and quality in the pet food industry since its inception. Guided by a philosophy that every pet deserves the best nutrition science can offer, Natural Balance has been relentless in its pursuit of creating the most balanced and healthful diets. The brands journey began with a foundational commitment to nutritional excellence, aiming to cater to the diverse needs of pets through each stage of their lives. What sets Natural Balance apart is its unwavering dedication to combining scientific research with natural ingredients to formulate diets that promote optimal health.

The brands holistic view extends beyond the bowl; it encompasses a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical ingredient sourcing. By partnering with local farmers and prioritizing renewable resources, Natural Balance not only contributes to the health of pets but also to the health of the planet. This dual focus on pet wellness and environmental stewardship resonates strongly with eco-conscious pet owners, positioning Natural Balance as a brand that cares for animals and the earth alike.

Product Line and Ingredients

The breadth and depth of Natural Balances product line are a testament to the brands dedication to meeting the nuanced nutritional needs of pets. From high-quality proteins sourced from both land and sea to a rich variety of vegetables and whole grains, each ingredient is selected with care and purpose. Natural Balances range includes specialized diets such as limited ingredient formulas, designed to minimize the risk of food sensitivities, and targeted solutions for weight management, reflecting a comprehensive approach to pet nutrition.

This meticulous attention to ingredient quality and diet formulation is what makes Natural Balance a trusted name among pet owners. The brands commitment to transparency about its sourcing and manufacturing processes further solidifies its reputation, offering peace of mind to consumers seeking the best for their pets. Whether its a growing puppy, an active adult, or a senior dog with specific dietary needs, Natural Balance provides a solution that is both wholesome and scientifically backed.

27 Varieties of Natural Balance Dry Dog Food

Nutritional Content and Benefits

Natural Balance Dog Food shines in its ability to merge macronutrient balance with vital micronutrients and functional ingredients, creating diets that support every facet of a pets health. Each formula is enriched with a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to fortify the immune system, promote digestive health, and ensure a lustrous coat. The strategic inclusion of dietary fibers and prebiotics in Natural Balances diets exemplifies the brands holistic approach to nutrition, prioritizing gut health as a cornerstone of overall well-being.

This comprehensive nutritional philosophy ensures that pets not only enjoy their meals but also derive maximum health benefits from them. Natural Balances focus on creating diets that support pets from the inside out has garnered acclaim from pet owners and professionals alike, cementing its status as a leader in holistic pet nutrition.

Pricing and Availability

Natural Balance is committed to making its premium dog food widely accessible to pet owners, balancing quality with affordability. The brands extensive distribution network, encompassing both brick-and-mortar pet stores and online retailers, ensures that pet owners have easy access to its products, regardless of their location. By offering competitive pricing across its diverse product range, Natural Balance makes it possible for a broader audience to provide their pets with high-quality nutrition.

This approach to pricing and availability demonstrates Natural Balances commitment to pet health and owner satisfaction. The brands efforts to ensure that its nutritious diets are both affordable and widely available align with its mission to enhance the lives of pets and their owners across the globe.

Most Popular Natural Balance Dog Foods Best Current Online Price

Testimonials and Consumer Feedback

The positive impact of Natural Balance on pet health is vividly illustrated in the testimonials and feedback from satisfied pet owners. Stories of transformative health improvements, from enhanced vitality and energy to improved coat condition and digestive health, abound. These firsthand accounts speak to the efficacy of Natural Balances nutritional approach, with many pet owners noting significant health benefits that have made a real difference in their pets quality of life.

Pet owners frequently express gratitude for Natural Balances commitment to quality, noting the positive changes in their pets health and appearance as a testament to the brands value. Despite the premium pricing, the consistent praise from consumers highlights the brands success in delivering superior nutrition that supports pets in leading healthier, happier lives.

Expert Reviews and Opinions

Nutrition experts and veterinarians hold Natural Balance in high regard, often recommending it due to its science-driven approach to pet nutrition. The brands dedication to using high-quality ingredients to create balanced and nutritious diets resonates well within the professional community, reinforcing its position as a top choice for conscientious pet owners.

Experts particularly appreciate the brands effort to provide specialized formulas catering to various health needs, such as sensitivities, weight management, and life stages, which are backed by rigorous scientific research and nutritional expertise. This alignment with veterinary nutritional standards ensures that pets are receiving diets that support not only their physical health but also their overall well-being, making Natural Balance a commendable option for those seeking optimal care for their dogs.

Comparative Analysis

In the crowded marketplace of pet nutrition, Natural Balance distinguishes itself through a holistic approach to pet health, offering an appealing alternative to well-known brands like Blue Buffalo and Orijen. What sets Natural Balance apart is not just its commitment to quality but also its dedication to sustainability and ethical practices in sourcing ingredients.

This dual emphasis offers a unique value proposition to pet owners who are not only concerned about the nutritional content of their pets food but also the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment. While the competition remains fierce, Natural Balances ability to marry nutritional excellence with environmental responsibility positions it as a standout choice for pet owners who prioritize both the health of their pets and the planet.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-Quality Ingredients: Natural Balances use of scientifically formulated ingredients ensures pets receive diets rich in nutrients necessary for their health and development.
• Nutritional Profiles: The brand offers comprehensive nutritional solutions designed to meet the needs of pets at all life stages, addressing specific health concerns with precision.
• Sustainability: A strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing reflects Natural Balances dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible manufacturing practices.

Cons:

• Premium Pricing: The premium nature of Natural Balances products may place them out of reach for some pet owners, despite the value they offer in terms of quality and nutritional benefits.

Overall Score

Natural Balance Dog Food Overall Score: 8.5/10

Achieving an 8.5 out of 10, Natural Balance Dog Food excels in providing premium nutrition that supports the holistic health of pets. This score reflects the brands successful blend of high-quality, scientifically backed ingredients, and its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.

While the price point of Natural Balances products is indicative of their premium status, the tangible health benefits and positive impact on environmental sustainability justify the investment. Pet owners are advised to consider their pets individual nutritional requirements and consult with professionals to make informed dietary choices that best support their companions health and happiness. Natural Balance stands as a principled choice for those seeking to nourish their pets responsibly and sustainably.

Natural Balance Fat Dogs Review (Dry)

Natural Balance Fat Dogs Review (Dry)

By Mike Sagman

Updated: April 22, 2024

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Review of Natural Balance Fat Dogs

Natural Balance Fat Dogs earns the Advisors second-highest tier rating of 4.5 stars.

The Natural Balance Fat Dogs product line includes one dry dog food, a recipe claimed to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult maintenance.

Recipe and Label Analysis

Label and nutrient data below are calculated using dry matter basis.

Natural Balance Original Ultra Fat Dogs Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal and Barley

Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content

Chicken meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, dried peas, oat groats, barley, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, dehydrated alfalfa meal, oat fiber, pea protein, dried tomato pomace, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), natural flavor, brewers dried yeast, dried eggs, dried carrots, dried spinach, dried parsley, salmon oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), vitamins (vitamin E supplement, ascorbic acid (source of vitamin C), niacin, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate, d-calcium pantothenate, riboflavin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, biotin, vitamin D3 supplement), dl-methionine, taurine, choline chloride, inulin, minerals (zinc proteinate, zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, iron proteinate, copper sulfate, copper proteinate, manganese sulfate, manganese proteinate, sodium selenite, calcium iodate), salt, potassium chloride, l-carnitine, l-lysine monohydrochloride, mixed tocopherols (preservative), citric acid (preservative), Yucca schidigera extract, rosemary extract, green tea extract, spearmint extract

Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 10.5%

Red denotes any controversial items

Ingredient Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.

The second ingredient is salmon meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate.

Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.¹

The third ingredient includes chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. Like peas, beans and lentils, chickpeas are a nutritious member of the fiber-rich legume (or pulse) family of vegetables.

However, chickpeas contain about 22% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The fourth ingredient lists dried peas. Dried peas are a good source of carbohydrates. Plus theyre naturally rich in dietary fiber.

However, dried peas contain about 27% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.

The fifth 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 sixth item 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 is beet pulp. Beet pulp is a controversial ingredient, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing.

Some denounce beet pulp as an inexpensive filler while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits.

We only call your attention here to the controversy and believe the inclusion of beet pulp in reasonable amounts in most dog foods is entirely acceptable.

The eighth ingredient is pea fiber, a mixture of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber derived from pea hulls. Aside from the usual benefits of fiber, this agricultural by-product provides no other nutritional value to a dog.

The ninth ingredient is alfalfa meal. Although alfalfa meal is high in plant protein (about 18%) and fiber (25%), this hay-family item is more commonly associated with horse feeds.

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 7 notable exceptions

First, we find pea protein, what remains of a pea after removing the starchy part of the vegetable.

Even though it contains over 80% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.

And less costly plant-based products like this can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.

Next, this food includes 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.

In addition, brewers yeast can be a controversial item. Although its a by-product of the beer making process, this ingredient is rich in minerals and other healthy nutrients.

Fans believe yeast repels fleas and supports the immune system.

Critics argue yeast ingredients can be linked to allergies. This may be true, but (like all allergies) only if your particular dog is allergic to the yeast itself.

In addition, a vocal minority insists yeast can increase the risk of developing the life-threatening condition known as bloat. However, this is a claim weve not been able to scientifically verify.

In any case, unless your dog is specifically allergic to it, yeast can still be considered a nutritious additive.

Whats more noteworthy here is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

Next, we note the inclusion of inulin, a starch-like compound made up of repeating units of carbohydrates and typically sourced from chicory root.

Not only is inulin a natural source of soluble dietary fiber, its also a prebiotic used to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in a dogs digestive tract.

We also 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.

Another note-worthy addition is 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

Based on its ingredients alone, Natural Balance Fat Dogs looks like an above-average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 29%, a fat level of 8% and estimated carbohydrates of about 55%.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 29%.

Above-average protein. Below-average fat. And above-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the chickpeas, pea products, alfalfa meal and brewers yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat.

Our Rating of Natural Balance Fat Dogs

Natural Balance Fat Dogs is a grain-inclusive dry dog food using a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4.5 stars.

Highly recommended.

Natural Balance Fat Dogs Recall History

The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to Natural Balance through April.

You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.

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