natural balance limited ingredient dog food venison and sweet potato
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food Review (Dry)
The Natural Balance Limited Ingredient product line includes the 21 dry dog foods listed below.
Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Recipe and Label Analysis
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Sweet Potato and Venisonwas selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
Ingredients Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is sweet potato. Sweet potatoes are a gluten-free source of complex carbohydrates in dog food. They are naturally rich in dietary fiber and beta carotene.
The second ingredient is venison. Although it is a quality item, raw venison contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.
After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.
The third ingredient is potatoes. 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 fourth ingredient is pea protein, what remains of a pea after removing the starchy part of the vegetable.
The next ingredient is potato protein, the dry residue remaining after removing the starchy part of a potato.
Even though pea and potato proteins contain over 80% protein, these ingredients would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.
And less costly plant-based products like these can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
The fifth 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 that 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 next item is brewers yeast, which can be a controversial ingredient. 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.
After the natural flavor, we find dicalcium phosphate, likely used here as a dietary calcium supplement.
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 6 notable exceptions
First, we find flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.
However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
Next, this recipe contains 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.
Additionally, we note the use of dried potato products, the dried residue of the potato processing industry primarily consisting of potato pieces, peelings and culls.
With the exception of perhaps its caloric content and a small amount of protein, potato products are of only modest nutritional value to a dog.1
This recipe also includes 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.
Since taurine deficiency appears to be more common in pets consuming grain-free diets, we view its presence in this recipe as a positive addition.
Next, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.
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 Limited Ingredient looks like an average dry dog food.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 22%, a fat level of 11% and estimated carbohydrates of about 59%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 25% and a mean fat level of 13%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 54% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Which means this Natural Balance product line contains
Below-average protein. Below-average fat. And above-average carbs when compared to other dry kibbles.
When you consider the protein-boosting effect of the pea and potato proteins, brewers yeast and flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a recipe containing a moderate amount of meat.
10 Best Venison Dog Food Brands: Exploring Top-tier Cuisine
If your dog is suffering from a food allergy, you dont necessarily need to shell out a small fortune on fancy hypoallergenic dog food the solution may be as simple as switching to a new protein source. For a lean source of complete animal protein, consider venison as an option.
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Keep reading to learn more about the nutritional benefits of venison and to receive our recommendations for three top-rated brands of venison dog food. Venison is becoming more and more common in pet foods so it is not always going to be the right choice.
But if your dog cant tolerate some of the most common proteins like chicken or beef, making the switch to venison might be the right choice.
Look for a product that lists venison or venison meal as the first ingredient and, ideally, as the sole source of protein you should also make sure it includes a digestible carbohydrate that wont upset your dogs stomach.
If youre looking for a venison dog food, consider one of our top choices.
The Top 10 Recommended Venison Dog Food Brands
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
---|---|---|
Our #1 Choice | Go! Sensitivities Limited Ingredient Venison Dry Dog Food
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon |
Merrick Grain-Free Real Venison & Chickpeas Recipe
| Check Price on Amazon | |
Zignature Venison Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Dog Food
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
American Journey Limited Ingredient Venison Recipe
| Check Price on Chewy | |
Merrick Backcountry Big Game Recipe
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe
| Check Price on Walmart | |
Solid Gold Buck Wild Venison
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Natural Balance L.I.D. Sweet Potato & Venison Formula
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Natural Open Range Recipe
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon |
Here are some reviews for three of our top choices of venison dog food.
- Petcurean Go! Limited Ingredient Venison Recipe for Dogs
- Merrick Grain-Free Real Venison & Chickpeas Recipe
- Zignature Venison Limited Ingredient Formula
- American Journey Limited Ingredient Venison
- Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Big Game Recipe
- Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Venison
- Solid Gold Buck Wild Venison, Potato & Pumpkin Recipe
- Natural Balance L.I.D. Venison Formula
- Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Natural Open Range Recipe
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner
1. Petcurean Go! Limited Ingredient Venison Recipe
First 5 Ingredients : De-Boned Venison, Venison Meal, Tapioca, Peas, Pea Flour
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
The Go! line from Petcurean company is specifically designed for dogs with special dietary needs. If you happen to have a dog with food sensitivities, then this kibble is worth considering. Venison is the sole meat source along with antioxidants, omegas and other nutrients. Lastly, it is grain & gluten free.
Petcurean pet food company offers four different brands of dog food, the newest of which is their Gather line of products made with organic and sustainably produced ingredients. The NOW line of products features all-natural recipes and the Summit brand includes simple but wholesome recipes for complete health.
The Go! line of products features three different formulas designed for dogs with special dietary needs. The Fit + Free line features maximum meat proteins with zero gluten or grains for optimal energy and fitness.
The Daily Defense product line features recipes designed for preventive care and the Sensitivity + Shine line is made for dogs with food sensitivities and other dietary needs. This lineup includes four LID recipes made with premium proteins like venison.
The Petcurean Go! Limited Ingredient Venison Recipe for Dogs is a great product if your dog suffers from food allergies or sensitivities. It features premium quality venison as the main ingredient and as the solitary meat protein used in the recipe.
This formula contains zero grains, gluten, or potatoes, relying instead on digestible carbohydrates like tapioca, peas, lentils, and chickpeas for carbohydrate energy and dietary fiber. This recipe provides a blend of omega oils for healthy skin and coat as well as plenty of antioxidants for a strong immune system.
This formula features chelated minerals for optimal nutrient uptake and synthetic vitamin supplements for nutritional balance. Youll also be glad to know that it is completely free from by-products as well as corn, wheat, and soy ingredients.
What We Like
- Single protein source
- Created by pet nutrition experts
- Made from only 6 primary ingredients
- Free from gluten, potato and grains
- Highly suitable for pets with sensitivities
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Still caused tummy upset to some
2. Merrick Real Venison & Chickpeas Recipe
First 5 Ingredients : Deboned Venison, Turkey Meal, Lamb Meal, Pork Meal, Chickpeas
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
This venison and chickpeas formula features real deboned meats, poultry and fish as top ingredients. Chickpeas is the main carbohydrate source with supplementary sources from tapioca and peas.
The Merrick Pet Care company follows the tagline, Whole health made right, so you can count on the fact that all of their products offer high-quality nutrition. This company offers their customers a five star promise which guarantees locally grown ingredients, real whole foods, company-owned kitchens, balanced nutrition, and health you can see.
Simply put, Merrick is dedicated to developing some of the best dog food products that money can buy. Merrick offers five different product lines to ensure that there is a product for every dog and every need. The Backcountry line features grain-free, protein-rich recipes with freeze-dried pieces and the Backcountry Raw line consists only of those freeze-dried pieces.
The Limited Ingredient Diet lineup is designed with a single source of animal protein and the Classic line features real deboned meat, poultry, or fish with ancient whole grains.
The Merrick Grain-Free Real Venison & Chickpeas Recipe belongs to Merricks grain-free product line which also features real deboned meats, fish, and poultry as the primary ingredient. This particular recipe lists four different sources of protein within the top five ingredients for a total of 36% protein.
This formula relies on chickpeas as the main source of digestible carbohydrate with peas and tapioca as supplementary carbs. Chicken fat is the main source of fat which is both highly nutritious and biologically valuable for your dog.
Youll also find several fresh fruits and vegetables on the list which provide dietary fiber as well as natural sources for key nutrients. This recipe is supplemented with chelated minerals and dried fermentation products to ensure digestibility and nutritional balance.
What We Like
- Multi-protein formula
- Superior taste and nutrition
- Promotes better joints, coat and skin
- Boasts using premium quality proteins
- Includes real whole foods (veggies and fruits)
What We Don't Like
- Caused stinky breath
- Actual bags are only 22 lbs not 25
3. Zignature Venison LID Formula
First 5 Ingredients : Venison, Venison Meal, Chickpeas, Peas, Chickpeas Flour
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
Looking for a high quality, grain free venison dog food and not worried about the price tag? Consider this formula from Zignature. Apart from having venison as its primary protein source, it also includes legumes, omega fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
This right here, Zignature Venison Formula is a high-quality dog food. Its nutrient profile is beyond any ordinary pet food products out in the market.
It has a range of quality ingredients and limits its meat ingredient to Venison. Furthermore, it also contains legumes which are considered to be a source (high quality) of carbohydrates. Plus, it also has fiber content which promotes healthy digestion.
If youre looking for a high-quality dog food that features venison as the primary protein, consider this recipe. This formula contains high quality ingredients that work together to provide for your dogs nutritional needs in a healthy, hypoallergenic way.
This formula is designed for adult canines which also contains omega 6 fatty acids which will aid in developing your pet's skin and coat health. This formula is supplemented with chelated minerals for maximum nutrient absorption as well, and it is grain-free.
Venison is an excellent source of lean protein for dogs, especially for dogs that cant tolerate more traditional protein options. Whether you are looking for a LID or just an alternative protein source, any of our top three recommendations listed above would be a good option for your dog.
What We Like
- Filled with probiotics
- Limited ingredient formula
- Low in cholesterol and fat
- Very nice option for red meat lovers
- Ideal for pets who are allergic to other meats
What We Don't Like
- Not a hit among picky pups
- Caused some tummy issues
4. American Journey L.I.D. Venison & Sweet Potato Recipe
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Venison, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Pea Protein, Venison Meal
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
Savory real deboned venison will greet your dog in every bite, giving your pet a protein-rich meal. And since its venison, the meat is much lower on cholesterol and fat than other protein sources.
Dog parents who are grain-free enthusiasts will love the venison version of American Journeys Limited Ingredient dog food. Savory real deboned venison will greet your pup with every bite, giving your pet a protein-rich diet, with protein making up 22% of the meal.
And because its venison, the meat is much lower on fat and cholesterol than other protein sources. The sweet potato, meanwhile, acts as an energy booster for your dog.
The brand didnt just stop at protein. American Journey also added nourishing ingredients such as omega fatty acids for healthy coat and skin, calcium for strong bones, zinc for thyroid and immune function, Vitamin E for healthy muscles, and a whole lot more nutrients and minerals for a complete and balanced diet.
This recipe is made to be as healthy as possible with no grain or by-product ingredients. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors to cause food sensitivities, either.
What We Like
- Food for all life stages
- Single animal protein source
- Zero corn, soy or wheat
- Made with limited ingredients
- Rich in DHA, antioxidants and Omegas
What We Don't Like
- Contains peas and pea protein
- Distinct peppery smell
5. Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Big Game Recipe
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
This kibble from Merrick imitates the ancestral diet of canines in the wild by including pure freeze dried pieces of raw, deboned lamb with a combination of venison and wild boar. It is one flavorful and nutrient-rich dry dog food.
In the Great Outdoors, undomesticated dogs lived and thrived on a protein-rich diet made of wild game. Merricks Backcountry Raw Infused Big Game Recipe mimics this ancestral canine diet by offering pure freeze-dried pieces of raw deboned lamb that your fur baby will love.
With a minimum crude protein of 38%, this meal provides optimum nutrition for healthy skin and hair, tissue and muscle repair, and the development of antibodies.
Lamb has a distinct taste that even fussy eaters love, and this combination with wild boar and venison offers doggies a flavor-packed, tasty dish.
The meat-based recipe also includes a healthy amount of Omega fatty acids for a beautiful coat and healthy skin, chondroitin for cartilage and joint tissue nourishment, glucosamine for increased joint mobility, and a host of other essential vitamins and minerals.
Made through Merricks High-Pressure Processing system, this dog food strictly adheres to FDA guidelines. It also contains no grains, by-products, or artificial flavorings.
What We Like
- With freeze-dried raw pieces
- Natural, grain free formula
- Rich in Omega fatty acids
- Made with limited ingredients
- Filled with glucosamine and chondroitin
What We Don't Like
- Caused gassiness
- Sometimes missing the raw infused bits
6. Instinct by Nature's Variety Raw Boost Recipe with Real Venison
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
A combination of high protein, grain free kibble with raw pieces of venison making it such a joyous meal for your pooch. It is a multi-protein food as it also contains salmon meal, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, herring meal, freeze-dried lamb, lamb meal and freeze-dried lamb liver, freeze-dried lamb spleen, freeze-dried lamb heart, freeze-dried lamb kidney.
The pure nutrition of raw meat, freeze-dried to preserve all the goodness inside is offered by Instincts Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Venison. Grass-fed venison delivers a rich and earthy taste that even finicky doggos will enjoy.
The flavor is further enhanced with salmon and herring meal and real bites of lamb that not only provide a yummier taste but are also excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Containing a minimum of 35% crude protein, each serving will provide your pet with all the nutrients he needs for a healthy immune system and proper cell maintenance and repair.
The high omega fatty acids (3 and 6) found in the recipe strengthens a dogs coat and skin health, immune function, and growth. Zinc, selenium, and Vitamins A, E, and C have also been added into the mix for a complete balanced diet.
This recipe contains no grain, soy, potato, by-product meal, or artificial colors and preservatives, which makes for a truly healthy doggy food.
What We Like
- Protein-rich kibbles
- Features multiple protein sources
- With freeze-dried raw venison pieces
- Filled with antioxidant rich ingredients
- Zero fillers, by-products and artificial preservatives
What We Don't Like
- Price a bit high
- Caused stomach upset
7. Solid Gold Buck Wild Venison, Potato & Pumpkin Recipe
First 5 Ingredients: Venison, Turkey Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Chickpeas
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
A holistic, gluten and grain free dry dog food is what Solid Gold offers. Packed with pastured-raised venison, probiotics, omega fatty acids and other essential nutrients make this product an outstanding source of complete nutrition.
Adult dogs with sensitive stomachs need holistic food thats not just grain- or gluten-free but tasty as well. The Wild Venison, Potato & Pumpkin recipe from Solid Gold offers doggies an excellent source of complete nutrition thats easy on the tummy.
Packed with millions of probiotics, every bite of this yummy recipe aids in your dogs proper digestion and reduced likelihood of urinary tract infection and allergic reactions.
Pasture-raised venison is the number 1 ingredient in this food. Leaner than beef and with less calories than chicken, venison is a healthy protein source.
Containing 23% of minimum crude protein, it has enough to support proper muscle growth and repair, brain function, and hormone production.
Aside from protein, the recipe contains DHA for neural development; Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health; taurine for proper heart function; and Vitamins E and C as antioxidants.
A holistic pet food, this product by Solid Gold Buck is also crafted with other superfoods such as carrots, blueberries, and pumpkins for a wholly nutritious blend.
What We Like
- Grain and gluten free
- Great for dogs' gut health
- With 90M living probiotics per pound
- Contains whole superfood ingredients
- Made by Americas first holistic pet food since 1974
What We Don't Like
- Not for picky eaters
- Contains peas and pea fiber (potential allergen)
8. Natural Balance L.I.D. Sweet Potato & Venison Formula
First 5 Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Venison, Pea Protein, Potato Protein, Canola Oil
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
Recipe starts with sweet potatoes and venison making it delectable. A limited ingredient kibble comprised with simple, organic ingredients that promotes overall health from nose to tail.
Premium ingredients and a chock full of essential nutrients wrapped up in one flavorful package best describes Natural Balances LID Formula. This food offers a tasty grain-free and healthy alternative for pets, with venison as the single source of animal protein.
Because its venison, the meat is leaner and contains less saturated fat than other meat sources. At a 20% minimum protein content, this formulation supports a luxurious coat, healthy skin, and strong muscles.
The sweet potato provides the energy boost the body needs in the form of carbohydrates. As a soluble fiber, its easily digested and aids in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system.
Other vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin E, Vitamin A, biotin, calcium, folic acid, manganese, and taurine complete the wholly nutritious blend. This recipe contains no artificial colors or flavors.
What We Like
- Savory recipe
- Grain free sources of fiber
- Uses limited number of ingredients
- Filled with Omegas and Taurine
- Supports dog's overall health and well-being
What We Don't Like
- Poor packaging
- Kibble sizes for new batch different from old ones
9. Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Natural Open Range Recipe
First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Chicken Meal, Dried Peas, Whole Dried Potatoes, Pea Flour
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
This Peak Open recipe has multi-protein sources: beef, lamb and venison. Imagine the aromatic and flavorful meaty dish your pet is going to have with this one. Such a delightful treat!
Brimming with pure meaty goodness, Rachael Rays Natural Open Range dog food formula combines three flavorful protein-rich animal sources into one hearty fare. Its a nutrient-dense recipe that contains a minimum 30% of crude protein from red meat sources: farm-raised beef, venison, and lamb.
Aside from meat protein, the formula also includes chicken fat, menhaden fishmeal, and flaxseed as sources for Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids (healthy coat and skin); dried peas as a source of Vitamin A (optimal function of muscles and nerves); and sweet potatoes to get carbohydrates (fuel). Theres also calcium, manganese, Vitamin E, iron, choline, and much more.
This recipe uses no poultry by-product meal, gluten, grains, and fillers. There are no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, either.
What We Like
- 30% high quality protein
- Made from 3 novel protein sources
- Free from fillers, grains and gluten
- Perfect for puppies and adults alike
- Portion of proceeds helps animals in need
What We Don't Like
- Big kibble size
- Some find it too greasy
10. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Tapioca Starch, Pea Protein, Peas
WHY YOU SHOULD BUY
A special blend of halibut, wild salmon and venison sourced from the Alaskan frontier, this high protein kibble will surely help your dog build and maintain lean muscle mass.
Consisting of deboned wild salmon, venison, and halibut, this recipe brings dogs a tasty meal consisting of at least 30% crude protein. This macronutrient is responsible for building and repairing tissues and supporting healthy skin and hair.
A precise blend of omega fatty acids and DHA (for shiny coats and healthy skin), complex carbohydrates (for energy), and essential vitamins and minerals (for strong bones, teeth, and overall optimal health) round up the tasty and nourishing food.
A unique blend mimicking an Alaskan mountain wolfs diet, this Denali Dinner recipe by Blue Buffalo gives domesticated canines a tantalizing taste of the Alaskan frontier. Its especially formulated by animal nutritionists and holistic veterinarians to bring a nutritionally balanced and complete meal to dogs.
Crafted using the brands LifeSource Bits system, the blend of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins are cold-formed for longer-lasting potency. This formula uses no soy, wheat, corn, grain, or chicken/poultry by-product meals.
What We Like
- Very unique recipe
- Contains complex carbohydrates
- Formulated by animal nutritionists
- Filled with nutritious fruits and veggies
- Protein sources from wild salmon, venison and halibut
What We Don't Like
- Always out of stock
- Contains peas and chicken
What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Venison?
Venison is the name for the red meat that comes from deer. Though often considered a novel protein, venison is actually very common in the United States so it cant really be called an exotic protein. Compared to popular commercially raised meats like beef, pork, and lamb, venison is a lean mean.
Also, because it isnt commercially grown, it usually doesnt contain growth hormones or antibiotics. Because venison is a type of animal protein, it is technically possible for your dog to develop an allergy, but many dogs tolerate venison well this makes it a popular protein for use in LIDs as well as formulas designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs.In terms of its nutrition, venison contains about 150 calories for a 3.5-ounce portion (about 100 grams). A portion this size contains just 2.4 grams of fat, compared to about 205 calories and 10 grams of fat for a same-size portion of top beef loin. It is also worth noting that less than half of the fat in venison is saturated fat.
Unchanged: In regard to protein content, a 3.5-ounce serving of venison contains nearly 30 grams of protein, and lean protein at that. Venison is also rich in iron, niacin, riboflavin, and B vitamins it also has higher levels of omega-3 fatty acid than beef. If youre looking for a lean, nutrient-rich, and novel protein for your dog, venison is a great option to consider.
Is venison meal good for dogs?
Yes. They are free-range, grass-fed and never given any hormones, antibiotics, or GMO feed. Venison is high in protein and iron yet low in fat. It is also rich in nutrients like vitamins B12 and B6, riboflavin and niacin.
Where does venison for dog food come from?
Venison is the general term for deer meat. Most of the venison that is used in European pet foods comes from New Zealand but due to a global shortage, the price of venison has shot up over the last few years making it one of the most expensive meat options found in dog foods.
Is venison dog food good for dogs with allergies?
Grain-free dog foods are always gluten-free. Instead of opting for a common protein like beef or chicken that may be causing irritation in a dog with food allergies, a novel diet may be centered around a less-common protein like venison, duck or salmon.
Is venison good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
If you do want to try feeding your dog something different, I recommend either a novel protein diet (e.g., duck and potato or venison and pea) or a highly digestible diet. Some varieties are only available through veterinarians and benefit from tighter quality-control measures than do over-the-counter foods.