natural balance wet dog food reviews

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.

Natural Balance Dog Food Review 2024: Best High Quality Pet Food?

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The Natural Balance dog food brand was founded in Burbank, California by Dick Van Patten in 1989. This company was founded with the intention of providing high-quality pet food products that will support the nutritional needs of pets throughout the duration of their lives.

This brand formulates their products in keeping with strong scientific principles and established nutritional truths, offering a wide range of premium pet food products that are used and respected around the world.

This company uses only the highest-quality meats and proteins in their recipes as well as digestible carbohydrates, healthy fats, and nourishing fruits and vegetables.

For this brand, the health and safety of pets is always the priority and they want to show their love by feeding them the best that nature has to offer.

Manufacturer Information

The Natural Balance brand is owned by the J.M. Smucker Company. The brand originally merged with Del Monte Pet Foods in 2013, but Del Monte Pet Foods was later renamed to Big Heart Pet Brands in 2014.

One year later, it was acquired by the J.M. Smucker Company who still has ownership of the brand. Other pet food brands owned by J.M. Smucker include Meow Mix, Kibbles n Bits, Milk-Bone, Natures Recipe, Milos Kitchen, and Pup-Peroni.

Reviewed Natural Balance Dog Foods

This brand offers a wide selection of different pet food products across several product lines and they general do well in Natural Balance dog food reviews.

Though each product line is unique, they are all made with fresh, natural ingredients like premium animal proteins, healthy carbohydrates, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

This company is so proud of their products that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Because they have so many products to choose from, however, it is easy to find one that will meet your dogs specific needs.

Simply put, this brand is dedicated to preserving the health and wellness of pets everywhere through safe, high-quality and nutritious pet food products.

Natural Balance Dog Food Review

1. Natural Balance L.I.D. High-Protein Pollock Formula
2. Natural Balance L.I.D. Salmon & Sweet Potato Formula
3. Natural Balance Puppy Formula Duck & Potato Formula
4. Natural Balance Synergy Formula
5. Natural Balance Lamb & Brown Rice Formula Large Breed
6. Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken & Salmon Formula
7. Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula
8. Natural Balance Delectable Delights ChopLick'n Stew
9. Natural Balance L.I.D. Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula
10. Natural Balance Ultra Premium Liver Formula

1. Natural Balance L.I.D. High-Protein Pollock Formula

First 5 ingredients: Pollock, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Whitefish Meal, Pea Protein

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

Real, wholesome pollock is the key ingredient, followed by healthful ingredients like garbanzo beans, flaxseed then nourished with vitamins and minerals.

Natural Balance L.I.D. Pollock Formula is a grain-free dry food formulated for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. This high-protein fish recipe is ideal for dogs who are sensitive to other animal proteins, such as chicken or beef.

At 32% protein, this f ormula has one of the highest protein content among limited ingredient dog foods. Made with premium wild caught Alaskan pollock, this recipe helps dogs maintain a lean and strong muscle mass. Alaskan pollock is a high quality protein source that is easy to digest, making it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

This Natural balance recipe also has whitefish meal as an additional source of protein and flavor. Instead of grains, potatoes, or soy this recipe has garbanzo beans and peas as the main sources of carbohydrates. Unlike other recipes, this limited ingredient formula does not include any other vegetables or fruits. The short ingredient list minimizes the risk of allergies in very sensitive pups.

Pollock is naturally high in omega 3 fatty acids. Omega fatty acids help promote healthy skin and lustrous coats in dogs. This formulas main source of fat is canola oil. While it is a plant-based fat, it is also supplemented with menhaden fish oil. Both are healthy fats rich in omega fatty acids.

This high protein recipe is enriched with vitamins and minerals for complete and balanced nutrition in every meal. This grain, gluten, and poultry-free recipe is free from artificial enhancers such as colors, flavors, or preservatives.

It is one of the highest rated products from the brand. Chewy customers have scored this pollock recipe a total of 100%. Owners of sensitive dogs are very happy that they finally found a recipe that does not trigger the allergies of their pups.

This limited ingredient formula is also gentle on sensitive tummies. The dogs are able to keep this food down without upsetting their stomachs. The pups also enjoy its rich, fish flavors. This Natural Balance recipe keeps the pups excited for mealtimes.

Other pet parents find that their dogs coats are much glossier since being switched to this Alaskan pollock recipe. The skin of dogs previously suffering from allergies have also improved. The itching and scratching have been significantly reduced.

This is a highly recommended formula for very sensitive dogs. It is highly palatable, made of high quality ingredients, and has given numerous dogs various health benefits and improvements.

2. Natural Balance L.I.D. Salmon & Sweet Potato Formula

First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Potatoes

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

This limited-ingredient kibble features real salmon as the topmost ingredient and sweet potatoes as an easily digestible source of carbohydrates. An food ideal choice for pets suffering from allergies.

Natural Balance Salmon & Sweet Potato Formula is a grain-free dry food suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. Made of real salmon, this grain, gluten, and poultry-free recipe is ideal for dogs suffering from skin conditions caused by allergies.

Compared to the pollock recipe, this limited ingredient salmon and sweet potato recipe contains less meat protein at 24%. It also has less fat, making it suitable for less active dogs or senior pups. Salmon is one of the most popular protein choices among dogs. Its high quality proteins are also easy to digest. The inclusion of menhaden fish meal even adds more protein and flavor to this recipe

Because of its natural omega fatty acids, salmon recipes are great for sensitive dogs who suffer from skin conditions due to allergies. It does not have corn, wheat, or soy. Instead, its sources of carbohydrates are complex carbs like sweet potatoes, cassava flour, and potatoes.

These nutritious vegetables are also easy to digest. Unlike many other dry dog foods, this recipe has no other vegetables or fruits. If you are looking for a legume or pea-free recipe for your pup, this could be the right dry food for him.

The main source of fat is sunflower oil. This high quality oil is a great source of omega 6 fatty acids. It is also lower in saturated fat compared to animal fat. This salmon recipe also has menhaden fish oil, which is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help support skin and coat health.

This limited ingredient meal is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It is nutritionally complete and balanced.

According to feedback from pet parents, many dogs seem to do well on this said formula. Their owners particularly love that it does not trigger their dogs allergy symptoms, like ear infections, itchy skin, and shedding. They credit this recipe with the improvement of their dogs skin condition.

While some pet parents are relieved to finally find a limited ingredient recipe that is relatively low in fat and calories, a few owners observed that this salmon recipe gave their dogs constipation.

Overall, it is still worth a try; especially if you have a sensitive older, overweight, or less active pup. Many dogs skin and coats have improved after being switched to this limited ingredient recipe.

3. Natural Balance L.I.D. Puppy Formula Duck & Potato Formula

First 5 ingredients: Duck, Duck Meal, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

Contains farm-raised duck as the main component and potatoes as an easily digestible source of carbohydrates. It is enhanced with DHA from marine sources to help support neural development.

This puppy formula is a grain-free dry food formulated for the nutritional needs of growing puppies, as well as pregnant and nursing dogs. It is suitable for all breeds and sizes. With duck as its only source of animal protein, this limited ingredient dry dog food is perfect for pups who are sensitive to other proteins such as beef or chicken.

This duck recipe is 25% protein. Duck is a high quality protein that is full of savory flavor. Many dogs who are allergic to chicken protein do well on duck recipes. It is rich in amino acids that help puppies build lean and strong muscles.

Its sources of carbohydrates are easy to digest vegetables. Complex carbs potatoes, cassava flour, and sweet potatoes are the only carb sources in this recipe. This limited ingredient diet does not contain any other vegetables or fruits that are typically found in many holistic dog food recipes. The minimal ingredients means less risk of triggering allergies in very sensitive pups.

This duck recipe has omega fatty acids from menhaden fish oil and sunflower oil. Omega fatty acids help promote healthy skin and shiny coats. Formulated by a team of board-certified clinical veterinarians, animal nutritionists, research scientists, design engineers and pet feeding analysts; it has all of the nutrients that dogs need for a complete and balanced meal.

It has DHA to support cognitive development; taurine for eye and heart health; and calcium and phosphorus to help young pups grow strong bones and teeth.

This duck recipe is free from corn, wheat, soy, grains, gluten, peas, and legumes. It is also chicken-free. This naturally nutritious and delicious dog food contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Little pups seem to enjoy this product, they love having the tasty, crunchy kibbles for meals.

The pups not only love the kibbles, but their digestion also improved. Many of them had sensitive tummies, and previously suffered from issues like diarrhea. Puppies with itchy skin from food allergies are doing quite well on this recipe too. Their owners noticed significantly less scratching after the pups were switched to this recipe.

This kibble is worth trying if you are looking for a grain, gluten, chicken, pea/legume-free food for your puppy. Numerous sensitive puppies who were raised on this recipe have grown up to be quite healthy dogs.

4. Natural Balance Gentle Balance

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Cassava Flour

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

It is a synergistic diet combining the benefits of healthy digestion and superior stool quality. It provides a well-rounded nutrition for all breeds, from puppies to adults.

Natural Balance Gentle Balance Formula is a grain-inclusive dry dog food formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition to adult dogs of every breed and size. This synergistic premium dog food is designed to improve digestion, and help promote healthy skin and coat.

This multi protein recipe features chicken as the main protein source. Aside from real chicken; chicken meal, dried egg, salmon meal, and lamb meal make up most of the 28% total protein content of this recipe.

All of these protein sources give this dog food a lot of rich, meaty flavors that dogs instinctively crave. Chicken meal, salmon meal, and lamb meal are highly concentrated sources of protein that will help dogs maintain a lean muscle mass.

Formulated to promote healthy digestion, this formulas carb sources are fiber-rich wholesome grains. It has brown rice, barley, and oat groats. Fiber helps move food along the digestive tract, and improves stool quality. It also helps dogs feel fuller in between meals. This Natural Balance recipe contains no corn, wheat, or soy.

Prebiotics are also included in this recipe to ensure a healthy digestion. These are types of dietary fiber that feed the friendly bacteria in dogs guts. Many holistic nutrition experts believe that good overall health starts with good digestion. A healthy digestion allows the body to absorb more nutrients instead of turning most of them into food waste.

The primary source of essential fatty acids in this formula is chicken fat. Chicken fat also gives this recipe a boost of chicken goodness that dogs enjoy. Salmon oil is included as an additional source of healthy fat. It is high in omega fatty acids that help improve skin health and promote glossy coats.

Compared to the brands Limited Ingredient Diet formulas, it has more vegetables in its ingredients. It has carrots, flaxseed, dried spinach, parsley, and cranberries. These plant-based ingredients are highly nutritious and have antioxidants that help support cellular health.

Like all Natural balance recipes, this formula contains no artificial enhancers such as colors, flavors, or preservatives.

According to feedback from pet parents, it has done wonders for their pups digestion. Not only do they enjoy its chicken, salmon, and lamb flavors; the dogs are doing quite well on this recipe.

Many of the dogs were previously suffering from issues such as diarrhea or poor stool quality. The high fiber content and prebiotics in this recipe seem to be beneficial for these dogs.

5. Natural Balance Lamb & Brown Rice Formula Large Breed

First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

A grain-inclusive yet gluten-free dry dog food specially designed to meet the nutritional needs of your big buddy. Real lamb is the primary ingredient in this complete and balanced recipe.

This large breed formula is a grain-inclusive dry dog food made for nutritional needs of large breed adult dogs. Large dogs tend to have voracious appetites, and can sometimes inhale their food. This recipe has larger sized kibbles to encourage chewing and eating slowly.

With lamb as the only source of protein, this recipe is ideal for dogs sensitive to proteins such as chicken or beef. Lamb is a highly nutritious and lean protein source that helps large dogs maintain a lean muscle mass.

It is formulated to improve digestion; it has fiber-rich wholesome grains such as brown rice, brewers rice, and rice bran as its main sources of carbohydrates. Fiber helps move food along the digestive tract. It also improves dogs stool quality. Large breed dogs sometimes need a little help in managing their weight. Fiber helps these big pups feel full for longer.

This lamb and brown rice recipes source of essential fatty acids is sunflower oil. Unlike Natural Balances other recipes, this has no animal fat such as salmon oil or menhaden fish oil. Sunflower oil is a good source of omega 6 fatty acids, and is lower in saturated fat than animal fat. This recipe has both omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that support skin and coat health.

This formula is enriched with calcium for strong bones and teeth. However, it does not have supplements such as glucosamine or chondroitin that support joint health. These supplements are especially beneficial to large dogs.

This limited ingredient, grain-inclusive recipe from Natural Balance is gluten-free. It also has no potatoes, legumes, and peas. With only lamb as the protein source, this recipe is completely poultry-free.

It is praised by many pet parents for the health benefits it gives to their big pups. Many dogs allergic to chicken are thriving on this lamb and brown rice recipe. Owners of other dogs have reported improved digestion and stool quality.

However, some pet parents whose dogs have been eating this recipe have complained about the new formulation. The new formula triggered itchy skin in a few dogs, while others encountered digestion issues that they previously did not have with the old formula.

Overall, this is a good dog food to try if your large pup needs a gluten-free or chicken-free grain-inclusive diet. Many sensitive pups thrive on this lamb recipe, though the same cannot be said for a few dogs who were used to the old formula of this product.

6. Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken & Salmon Formula

First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Dried Peas, Oat Groats

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

Formulated to keep your dog nutritionally balanced even though they are eating less calories, this meal offers a special protein and fiber blend to help your dog lose punds in a healthy and tasty way.

Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken & Salmon Formula is a grain-inclusive dry food specifically formulated for chonky adult pups of all breeds and sizes. Made to manage chubby pups weights, this recipe is nutritionally balanced with fewer calories. It contains a special protein and fiber blend that can help your dog feel full as they lose weight in a healthy manner.

Some weight management dog foods have a lower percentage of protein. Natural Balance Fat Dogs has a good amount of protein at 26%. This multi protein recipe has chicken meal and salmon meal as its main sources of protein. Both are high quality, concentrated sources of protein that help dogs maintain a lean muscle mass.

Fat Dogs formula has wholesome grains that are high in fiber, such as oat groats and barley. Fiber helps dogs feel full until their next meal. It also helps improve their digestion.

To add more healthy fiber, Fat Dogs has dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, dried tomato pomace, and oat fiber. It also has L-carnitine that promotes a healthy metabolism, and helps dogs burn fat.

To ensure complete and balanced nutrition, this low-fat recipe still includes a healthy fat source. It has chicken fat which is not only a good source of essential fatty acids, but also gives this recipe a lot of meaty flavor. Palatability is very important in weight management. If your dog does not enjoy his diet food, youll have no choice but to continue feeding him food that may not help him get to his ideal weight.

It also has salmon oil; salmon oil is naturally high in omega fatty acids that promote healthy skin and lustrous coats. This grain-inclusive recipe is free from corn, wheat, or soy. It has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

It is a hit among numerous chonky pups. Even picky pooches seem to love this chicken and salmon recipe. The low-fat, high fiber formula has helped many dogs lose excess pounds. According to their owners, the dogs are feeling much better with their lighter weights.

This is a highly recommended diet food, especially if you have a picky pup on your hands. It has delivered excellent results to a lot of formerly chunky dogs. It is packed with flavor, and has the right balance of nutrients to help pups get to their ideal weight.

7. Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula

First 5 ingredients: Brown Rice, Oat Groats, Pearled Barley, Peas, Potato Protein

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

This provides adult dogs with the same essential nutrients found in diets with meat as the protein source but uses only vegan ingredients. Enriched with DHA and EPA which aids in healthy brain function.

Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula is a grain-inclusive dry dog food formulated for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. This dog food contains no animal proteins or dairy products. It is a vegan recipe for dogs.

While it is a vegetarian/ vegan formula, this recipe is nutritionally balanced and complete. It is 18% protein, which meets the protein requirement of dogs. Its main sources of protein are peas and potatoes. This high-fiber, plant-based recipe is recommended for dogs with protein allergies.

Brown rice, oat groats, and barley are fiber-rich ingredients that help improve dogs digestion. This especially benefits dogs with very sensitive digestive systems. Having a healthy digestive system allows the body to absorb more nutrients. This Natural Balance recipe is fortified with vitamins and minerals needed by dogs to be healthy and strong.

Canola oil provides this Vegetarian Formula with essential fatty acids. It has omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and thick, glossy coats. It has L-carnitine which supports metabolic health; and taurine which promotes vision and heart health.

This vegetarian formula contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and has none of the common fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy.

Believe it or not, it is actually one of the brands highest rated dry food recipes. Based on feedback from pet parents, one of the most common reasons that they purchased this plant-based product is due to their vets recommendation. Dogs with severe protein allergies are sometimes prescribed with a plant-based diet.

Many owners whose dogs enjoyed this plant-based kibble are quite pleased with the results that this formula was able to deliver. After trying various dog foods with different animal proteins, the elimination of all animal protein has significantly helped control the allergies of these dogs.

Other dog parents noticed an increase in the energy levels of their dogs. This can also be attributed to their better digestion, as a result of a high-fiber diet. Some dogs have also lost weight on this recipe.

While we generally prefer to feed dogs with food made with high quality animal proteins, in some cases, a vegetarian diet can be quite helpful to dogs with severe protein allergies. If your dog requires a vegetarian diet, it is definitely highly recommended due to the great feedback it has received from pet parents.

If you suspect that your dog has allergies, we advise that you consult your vet so that your dogs condition can be properly diagnosed and addressed.

8. Natural Balance ChopLickn Stew Dog Stew Formula

First 5 ingredients: Tuna Broth, Tuna, Lamb, Dried Egg, Brown Rice

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

Gourmet dog stews that have been hand crafted to provide balanced nutrition that is sure to indulge your pets taste buds. With added salmon oil helps to maintain a healthy coat and skin.

If youre looking for a high-quality wet food to feed your dog, this ChopLickn Stew Dog Stew is a great option to consider this can be confirmed by positive many Natural Balance reviews. This formula features hearty chunks of lamb and tuna as well as tender brown rice, carrots, and peas, all cooked to perfection in a savory gravy.

This dog food recipe is complete and balanced for all adult dogs and it is so full of natural flavor that your dog wont be able to get enough of it. It is also free from corn, wheat, and soy ingredients as well as artificial additives so you can feel good about feeding it to your dog.

It also contains what some would consider as novel proteins, so there may be a lower risk for triggering food allergies and sensitivities.

The first ingredient in this recipe is tuna broth which helps to maintain the moisture level of the product while also providing natural fish flavor. This ingredient is followed by fresh tuna, fresh lamb, and dried egg three high-quality sources of complete animal protein.

For carbohydrates, this recipe relies on brown rice as well as peas and carrots. These ingredients provide carbohydrate energy as well as dietary fiber they also provide natural sources for key vitamins and minerals.

For fats, this recipe includes canola oil and there is an assortment of synthetic vitamins and minerals as well. Several of the minerals are chelated which means that they have been chemically bound to protein molecules to ensure optimal nutrient uptake. This recipe could benefit from some dried fermentation products for probiotic support, but it does seem to offer decent digestibility.

Overall, this wet food is a high-quality recipe, though there is a little room for improvement. This formula starts off strong with tuna and lamb as the primary proteins, but you should also note the inclusion of pea protein.

It is unclear how much this plant protein contributes to the total protein content of the recipe. This recipe also features canola oil, a plant-based oil, as the primary source of fat so it is less biologically valuable than an animal fat. All in all, however, this recipe meets your dogs nutritional needs and there arent any ingredients that are inherently bad for your dog.

9. Natural Balance L.I.D. Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Dehydrated Potatoes

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

Packed with natural smoked flavor, premium protein and complex carbohydrates that fuels the energy he needs for a full day of work or play. Made with sweet potatoes which is fiber-rich to help aid in good digestive health.

This is a grain-free wet food formulated for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. This limited ingredient recipes only source of animal protein is chicken. It is recommended for dogs sensitive to other protein sources, such as beef.

Chicken is one of the most popular proteins among dogs. Aside from being tasty, chicken is quite easy to digest. This pate also has chicken meal and chicken liver, which gives it a richer flavor and texture.

This chicken and sweet potato formula has flavor-packed chicken broth. This makes this pate a delicious way to add more hydration to your pups diet. As it is nutritionally complete and balanced, this chicken recipe can be served on its own as a meal, or served on top of kibble as a meal enhancer.

This grain and gluten-free recipe has hearty potatoes and sweet potatoes as its sources of carbs. It is also free from peas and legumes. It has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Unlike many wet dog foods, this recipe contains no carrageenan. Carrageenan is an additive that some experts claim may contribute to certain conditions in dogs.

Dogs love the tasty chicken goodness of this canned food; they lick their bowls clean every time they are served this meaty pate.

Dogs who have various digestive issues also thrive on this recipe. A few owners even use it as an alternative to more expensive prescription food. Based on ingredient quality, palatability, and results delivered, this is a highly recommended canned food for sensitive dogs.

10. Natural Balance Ultra Premium Liver Formula

First 5 ingredients: Beef Liver, Beef Broth, Beef, Brown Rice, Carrots

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

This premium dog food is made from high quality meats, healthy, organic vegetables and brown rice, then blended with all of the nutrients and flavor your dog's body and taste buds' crave.

Natural Balance Ultra Premium Liver Formula is a grain-inclusive wet dog food formulated for dogs in all life stages. It is suitable for all dog breeds and sizes. This pate is nutritionally balanced and complete, making it a great meal on its own. It can also be served as a kibble-topper to incorporate more moisture into your pups diet.

With beef liver as the most plentiful ingredient, this Natural Balance Ultra Premium recipe is loaded with a lot of nutrients. Liver is a lot higher in nutrients than muscle meat. It also has a rich flavor that dogs just love. Beef is also added to this recipe for more protein, flavor, and texture.

Beef broth gives Liver Formula another layer of flavor that dogs crave. It also ensures that this pate is soft, smooth, and easy to chew even for senior pups or young puppies.

To support digestive health, this liver recipe has fiber-rich brown rice and oat bran. Fiber improves digestion by helping food move along the digestive tract. Hearty veggies like carrots and potatoes provide additional texture and nutrients to this healthy pate. Carrots are high in antioxidants that help support cellular health as well as the immune system.

This grain-inclusive recipe has no corn, wheat, or soy. While it has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, it does contain carrageenan. Some experts claim that this additive commonly found in wet pet food may potentially contribute to certain conditions in pets.

As expected, this canned food is quite popular among dogs. Pups do love liver whether its from chicken or beef. It also agrees with the stomachs of many sensitive dogs.

However, a handful of customers find this pates texture quite inconsistent. According to them, some cans had a much drier pate that needed some scraping.

While many pet parents find that this wet dog food smells quite pleasant, a few buyers said that the scent is too strong for their liking.

It is a highly palatable wet food that is packed with nutrients. Apart from having carrageenan as an additive, the rest of its ingredients are only nutritious natural ingredients and supplements.

11. Natural Balance Wild Pursuit Chicken, Turkey Meal & Quail Formula

Product may have been discontinued

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Turkey Meal, Dried Peas, Dried Garbanzo Beans, Chicken Meal

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

WHY YOU SHOULD BUY

Includes diverse nourishment from three distinct, deliberately combined animal protein sources: Chicken, Turkey Meal, and Quail. A unique blend of premium-quality protein sources helps support muscle health.

As part of the Wild Pursuit line of products, this recipe is designed in keeping with your dogs natural evolutionary diet. This recipe features high-quality protein from numerous animal sources, including freeze-dried pieces for more natural flavor and optimal nutritional integrity.

As a life stages formula, this recipe is perfect for puppies and adult dogs and it is balanced for dogs of all breed sizes. It is completely grain-free, made with legumes as the primary source of carbohydrate, as well as supplementary proteins and prebiotics for healthy digestion. This recipe is free from corn, wheat, and soy ingredients as well as artificial additives.

This Chicken, Turkey Meal & Quail Formula starts off strong with fresh chicken and turkey meal as the top two ingredients. These are both high-quality sources of complete animal protein which means that they contain all of the essential amino acids your dog needs.

You do need to keep in mind that fresh meats like chicken contain 70% moisture, or more, so when the dog food is cooked to remove that moisture, the final volume of protein you get from the fresh chicken might be significantly lower.

Turkey meal, however, has already been cooked down to 10% moisture so it contains as much as 300% more protein by volume than fresh chicken. This recipe also contains supplementary proteins like chicken meal, dried egg, and quail.

There is also pea protein which, as a plant protein, is less biologically valuable than animal protein for your dog but there is plenty of animal protein either way.

For carbohydrates, this recipe relies primarily on dried peas and dried garbanzo beans. Legumes like garbanzo beans are complex carbohydrates that digest more slowly than simple carbs, so they have a lesser effect on your dogs blood sugar levels.

They are also a rich source of carbohydrate energy, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients. Some of the other carbohydrates used in this recipe include tapioca starch as well as an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables.

There are also supplementary sources of fiber like dried plain beet pulp. This recipe has a total of 4.5% crude fiber which is within the 5% maximum recommendation for dogs. There are also plenty of healthy fats like chicken fat as well as synthetic supplements for nutritional balance.

Overall, this Wild Pursuit Formula is rich in animal protein and contains plenty of natural sources for key nutrients. The carbohydrates used in this recipe are highly digestible and there is a maximum of 4.5% crude fiber.

Chicken fat, a highly nutritious ingredient, is the primary source of fat and there is a balance of omega fatty acids. The only problems with this recipe are the inclusion of pea protein and a few ingredients that some may consider questionable like dried plain beet pulp and brewers dried yeast. These ingredients have not been definitively linked to any negative effects, however.

Made in the USA?

The J.M. Smucker Company is headquartered in Orrville, OH but Natural Balance is headquartered in San Francisco. Although the brand website doesnt provide specific information about where their products are produced, they are a U.S. based company and they seem to make their products in the USA as well.

In fact, if you check the label for one of their products youll find the following claim, Packaged with Pride in the USA.

Ingredient Sourcing:

Natural Balance is dedicated to making sure that pets get the best nutrition possible, so they use only the highest quality ingredients including premium animal proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, the company does not provide specific information in regard to where they get their ingredients.

The statement about this brands products being Packaged with Pride in the USA only speaks to where the products are made, not where the ingredients come from.

Natural Balance Recall History List

This brand takes the safety and quality of their products very seriously which is why they put them through rigorous testing procedures. This company runs nine different tests on each batch so consumers can Buy with Confidence their products also come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Although this company is very careful with their ingredients and their products, there are some Natural Balance recalls you should be aware of. Here is an overview of the recalls that have affected this brand:

• In May 2012, the FDA issued a recall for certain batches of dry dog food due to potential salmonella contamination. This recall affected several recipes including the following Sweet Potato & Venison, Lamb Meal & Brown Rice, Sweet Potato & Bison, Vegetarian, Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Large Breed Bites, and Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Small Breed Bites.
• In June 2010, the FDA issued a recall for certain batches of Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Food Formula in 5-pound and 28-pound bags due to potential salmonella contamination.
• In July 2007, the FDA issued a recall for 15-ounce cans of four wet food formulas due to the potential for botulinum contamination. This recall affected the following recipes Irish Stew with Beef Potato & Carrots, Chinese Takeout, HOBO Chili, and Southern Style Dumplings.
• In March 2007, an AVMA report called for a recall of several canned foods and treats due to melamine contamination. This recall affected both dry foods and wet foods for dogs and cats.

How Expensive Are Their Products?

As a high-quality pet food brand that uses fresh, natural ingredients, Natural Balance dog food recipes are more a little more expensive than the typical dry food. You must remember, however, that with these recipes you are paying for quality.

The price for a 22- to 30-pound bag of their dry food ranges from about $42 to $70, depending on the product line. The LID and Wild Pursuit recipes tend to be a little more expensive than the Original recipes. You can purchase 13-ounce cans of wet food in cases of 12 for $19 to $36 which averages to around $2.30 per can.

There are also 2.75- and 8-ounce tubs available. If youre looking to save money on this brand, you might be able to find some Natural Balance dog food coupons online.

List of Current Products Available:

The Natural Balance pet food brand offers an assortment of dry foods, wet foods, rolls, and treats. Their products can be divided into six different categories including Grain Free, Healthy Digestion, Healthy Weight, High Protein, Limited Ingredients, and Vegetarian.

This brand offers a wide range of healthy options for dogs in all life stages with more than 20 different flavors to choose from. With so many choices available, you can select the product that best suits your dogs unique nutritional needs.

When it comes to their dry food products, this brand offers several product lines. The Original Ultra line includes life stages and breed size formulas featuring chicken and brown rice as the main ingredients.

The Wild Pursuit line features protein-rich, grain-free recipes and the Vegetarian line includes a single plant-based recipe. There are several reduced calorie formulas and a fairly extensive line of Limited Ingredient Diets for dogs with food sensitivities. Here is a list of their dry recipes:

Original Ultra Recipes:

• Chicken, Chicken Meal, & Duck Meal
• Chicken, Brown Rice, & Duck Meal Puppy
• Chicken, Chicken Meal, Duck Meal Small Breed Bites
• Chicken, Brown Rice, Duck Meal Large Breed Bites

Limited Ingredient Diet Recipes:

• Chicken & Sweet Potato
• Chicken & Sweet Potato Small Breed Bites
• Lamb Meal & Brown Rice
• Lamb & Brown Rice Puppy
• Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Large Breed Bites
• Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Small Breed Bites
• Legume & Duck Meal
• Potato & Duck
• Potato & Duck Puppy
• Potato & Duck Small Breed Bites
• Sweet Potato & Bison
• Sweet Potato & Fish
• Sweet Potato & Fish Small Breed Bites
• Sweet Potato & Venison

Wild Pursuit Recipes:

• Beef & Lamb Meal
• Chicken, Turkey Meal & Quail
• Trout, Salmon Meal & Tuna

Other Recipes:

• Synergy
• Vegetarian
• Reduced Calorie
• Fat Dogs Low Calorie

Wet Products Though this brand has an extensive collection of dry food products, their wet food offerings are a little more limited. There are two product lines for wet food Limited Ingredient Diets and Delectable Delights. The former comes in 2.75-ounce wet food cups while the latter comes in both 2.75-ounce cups and larger 8-ounce tubs. Here is a list of their wet recipes:

Limited Ingredient Diet Recipes:

• Chicken & Sweet Potato
• White Fish & Sweet Potato

Delectable Delights Recipes:

• Fetchin Catchins Dog Stew
• Gobbler Cobbler Dog Stew
• Pawpaya Pilaf Dog Stew
• Ducken-itas
• Wooferole
• Surf N Turf
• Bowl O Barkgundy
• ChopLickn Stew
• Chow-Down Chowder

Rolls If you prefer to feed your dog fresh food, youll be glad to know that this brand offers four different types of dog food rolls. These rolls come in 4-ounce, 1-pound, 2.25-pound, and 3.5-pound sizes and they are complete and balanced in terms of your dogs nutritional needs.

These rolls can be chopped, grated, or crumbled for feeding and they come in four flavors chicken, beef, duck & turkey, and lamb & chicken.

Treats In addition to their dry food, wet food, and rolls, this company also offers a large selection of treats including limited ingredient jerky treats, dental chews, meat sticks, training treats, and more. Here is a list of their dog treat recipes:

Treats:

• Mini Rewards
• L.I.T. Limited Ingredient Treats
• Jumpin Stix
• Jerky Bark
• Dental Chews
• Tender Cuts
• Meatballs
• Belly Bites