American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Review

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Review of American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe

According to our data, this American Journey recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for all life stages. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe, we'll examine all 45 ingredients and highlight the nutritional contribution of each ingredient.

While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.

  1. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that support your dog's immune system, brain function, and skin and coat health.

  2. Chicken meal is a highly concentrated source of protein made from dehydrated and ground chicken. It provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle development, tissue repair, and overall growth, making it a valuable ingredient for maintaining your dog's health and well-being.

  3. Turkey meal is a high-quality, protein-rich ingredient that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your dog. It supports lean muscle development, healthy organ function, and a strong immune system.

  4. Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.

  5. Sweet potato is a highly nutritious and easily digestible source of complex carbohydrates for your dog. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system and immune function.

  6. Chickpea is a nutrient-dense legume that provides a valuable source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals to support your dog's overall wellbeing.

  7. Pea protein is a plant-based protein source that is often used as a supplement in dog food. It's beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or those on a plant-based diet.

  8. Chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of essential fatty acids like omega-6 which help to maintain a healthy skin and coat. The tocopherols act as natural preservatives.

  9. Dried plain beet pulp is a source of dietary fiber that can help support your dog's digestive health, promote regular bowel movements, and aid in nutrient absorption.

  10. Natural flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appealing to your pet. This can help encourage your dog to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, supporting their overall health and well-being.

  11. Flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients, which can support your dog's skin, coat, and digestive health.

  12. Menhaden meal is a high-quality, concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. It supports healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall well-being, as well as providing essential nutrients for growth and development.

  13. Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  14. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your dog. They're rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function, and also provide fiber to aid in digestion and maintain a healthy weight.

  15. While salt is a necessary component of a dog's diet, providing essential minerals such as sodium and chloride for proper cellular function, it should be provided in moderation to avoid health issues like hypertension or kidney damage.

  16. Salmon oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, immune system, and cognitive function.

  17. Dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that supports your dog's digestive and immune health. This beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy balance of microflora in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, promoting regular digestion and overall wellbeing.

  18. Dried kelp is a natural source of essential minerals and trace elements, which help support your dog's thyroid function and overall health.

  19. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a type of prebiotic fiber that can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria in your dog. They may help support your dog's digestive and immune health.

  20. Vitamin E supplement is an essential nutrient that helps support your dog's immune system, skin health, and overall wellness.

  21. Choline Chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in brain and liver function, muscle movement, and supports healthy metabolic processes.

  22. Taurine is an essential amino acid that supports heart health, vision, and development and function of skeletal muscle.

  23. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of dog food, ensuring your pet receives the highest quality nutrients possible.

  24. Ferrous sulfate is an important source of iron for dogs, a mineral essential for red blood cell production, oxygen transportation, and overall vitality. Adequate iron intake supports your dog's immune system and energy levels.

  25. Zinc proteinate is a highly absorbable form of zinc. It helps support a healthy immune system, skin, and coat in dogs.

  26. Zinc sulfate is a source of the essential mineral zinc, which supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall growth and development.

  27. Iron proteinate is a chelated form of iron that is more easily absorbed by your dog's body, supporting their red blood cell production and overall health.

  28. Yucca schidigera extract is a natural ingredient known for its ability to reduce unpleasant odors in your dog's waste. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support joint health and overall well-being.

  29. Niacin supplement is an important source of vitamin B3, which plays a crucial role in supporting your dog's energy metabolism, nervous system function, and overall health. It also aids in maintaining healthy skin and coat, as well as promoting proper digestion.

  30. Copper sulfate is an essential trace mineral that supports various bodily functions in dogs, including immune system health, skin and coat maintenance, and red blood cell production.

  31. Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.

  32. Sodium selenite is a form of selenium, a necessary trace mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health in dogs.

  33. D-Calcium Pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid, a B-vitamin that helps in energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.

  34. Copper Proteinate is a chelated form of copper that's easier for dogs to absorb, aiding in red blood cell formation and iron absorption.

  35. Riboflavin supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which is crucial for your dog's energy production, cell function, and overall growth and development.

  36. Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones, joints, and metabolism in dogs. It also supports the production of collagen, which is vital for healthy skin, coat, and connective tissues.

  37. Vitamin A Supplement is important for supporting vision, immune function, and skin health in dogs.

  38. Manganese Proteinate is a chelated form of manganese, a mineral that supports bone health, metabolism and enzymatic reactions.

  39. Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 that helps support your dog's nervous system function, energy metabolism, and overall health.

  40. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a source of vitamin B6, which is essential for your dog's nervous system function, immune health, and red blood cell production.

  41. Vitamin B12 Supplement is an essential vitamin that helps support brain function and the formation of red blood cells.

  42. Calcium iodate is a source of iodine, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's thyroid function and overall metabolism. It helps maintain proper hormone production and is crucial for overall health and well-being.

  43. Vitamin D3 supplement is an essential vitamin that supports bone health, immune function, and overall well-being in dogs. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus balance in the body, promoting strong and healthy bones.

  44. Folic acid is a crucial B-vitamin that aids in the synthesis of DNA and supports healthy cell growth. It's essential for maintaining your dog's overall health, particularly during periods of rapid growth.

  45. Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant that can help protect your dog's body from the harmful effects of free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can support your dog's overall health and well-being, particularly in regard to joint health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The crude protein value of 32.00% in this pet food is primarily attributed to the high-quality animal protein sources listed at the beginning of the ingredient list. Deboned salmon, chicken meal, and turkey meal are all rich in protein and would contribute significantly to this value. Chicken meal and turkey meal are concentrated forms of protein because they have had most of the moisture removed. Pea protein also contributes to the overall protein content.

Crude fat at 14.00% is likely derived from the deboned salmon, chicken fat, and menhaden fish meal. These ingredients are naturally high in fats, which are essential for a pet's energy, cell function, and overall health. Chicken fat, preserved with mixed tocopherols, is a quality source of essential fatty acids. Additionally, salmon oil not only contributes to the fat content but also provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for skin and coat health.

The maximum of 5.00% crude fiber comes from ingredients such as sweet potatoes, peas, chickpeas, and dried plain beet pulp. These are all sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health. Sweet potatoes and peas are often used in grain-free recipes as healthy, fibrous carbohydrates.

The caloric content of 3740.00 kcal/kg is influenced by the combined macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. While this guaranteed analysis does not explicitly list the carbohydrate content, ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas, and chickpeas contribute to the overall calorie count. The high protein and fat levels also play a significant role in the caloric density of the food.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe costs approximately $3.07 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $11.26$17.59
10 lbs $18.93$29.59
15 lbs $25.66$40.10
20 lbs $31.84$49.76
30 lbs $43.16$67.44
40 lbs $53.56$83.68
50 lbs $63.31$98.93
60 lbs $72.59$113.42
70 lbs $81.49$127.32
80 lbs $90.07$140.73
90 lbs $98.39$153.73
100 lbs $106.48$166.37

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers who have tried American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe generally report their dogs love the taste, with many noting improvements in their pets' health and energy levels. Even picky eaters seem to enjoy the flavor, and the grain-free recipe has been beneficial for dogs with allergies and sensitivities, leading to less itching and better digestion for some. The inclusion of salmon as a primary ingredient is appreciated for its health benefits, though some customers were disappointed to find chicken listed as well, which can be problematic for dogs with chicken allergies.

Despite the positive feedback, there have been reports of dogs experiencing digestive issues and some refusing to eat the food after a change in the formula coinciding with new packaging. A few customers noted their dogs developed loose stools or vomiting, and others mentioned their pets simply lost interest in the food. Concerns about the quality of ingredients and the presence of chicken meal have been raised. However, many dogs seem to thrive on this diet, with owners reporting shiny coats and overall good health.

The packaging has received criticism for not being resealable, which affects the freshness of the food. Some customers have resorted to transferring the food to separate containers to maintain its quality. There have been isolated incidents of bags arriving damaged or with pest infestations, but these seem to be exceptional cases.

In summary, while there are some concerns and negative experiences, the majority of reviews for American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe are positive, with many pet owners committed to the brand due to the visible benefits for their dogs.