American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Large Breed Puppies Review

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Review of American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Large Breed Puppies

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

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

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

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

  24. 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.

  25. 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.

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

  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. 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.

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

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

  32. 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.

  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. 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.

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

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

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

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

  39. 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.

  40. 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.

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

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

  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 guaranteed analysis of the American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Large Breed Puppies indicates a minimum crude protein content of 32.00%. This high level of protein is likely contributed by the primary ingredients such as deboned salmon, chicken meal, and turkey meal. These are all high-quality sources of animal protein, which are crucial for the growth and muscle development of large breed puppies. Pea protein also contributes to the overall protein content, although it is a less complete protein compared to animal sources.

The crude fat content is listed at a minimum of 14.00%. This is a moderate amount of fat, suitable for growing puppies who require energy and essential fatty acids for development. The fat content in this food likely comes from ingredients like chicken fat, which is a high-quality source of energy and fatty acids, and menhaden fish meal, which also provides omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon oil is another contributor, known for being rich in omega-3s, which are beneficial for a puppy's skin and coat health.

Crude fiber is at a maximum of 4.50%. Fiber is important for digestive health, and in this formula, ingredients such as peas, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and dried plain beet pulp are likely the main sources of fiber. These ingredients provide not only fiber but also various nutrients and carbohydrates for energy.

The calorie content is 3578.00 per kg, which provides an estimate of the energy the food provides. This is influenced by the proportions of protein, fat, and carbohydrates in the food. The caloric density is important for ensuring that growing puppies receive enough energy for their active lifestyles and development needs without becoming overweight.

Overall, the guaranteed analysis reflects the nutritional emphasis on protein and fat appropriate for large breed puppies, supported by the selected ingredients which provide these macronutrients along with essential vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Large Breed Puppies costs approximately $2.83 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppy

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers with large breed puppies have expressed great satisfaction with the American Journey Grain-Free Dry Food Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe. Many have noted improvements in their puppies' digestive health, with reports of resolved stomach issues and better-formed stools. The larger kibble size is also appreciated as it seems well-suited for bigger breeds.

The food's ingredient list and affordability have garnered positive comments. Pet owners have observed noticeable growth in their puppies and improvements in their coats, indicating that the food supports healthy development. Some reviews mention switching from other brands due to issues like soft stools and skin problems, and have found that American Journey alleviates these concerns.

While a few customers have reported their dogs not favoring the smoked flavor or experiencing digestive upset, these instances appear to be exceptions. Many dogs seem to love the taste, with owners noting their pets' eagerness during meal times. The food's effect on coat health has been highlighted, with several reviewers mentioning a shinier and softer texture after switching to this recipe.

Some pet owners have chosen to mix the grain-free formula with grains or other foods, either due to personal preference or following their vet's advice. This adaptability speaks to the food's versatility. Despite some concerns about the lack of grain in the diet, the majority of feedback remains overwhelmingly positive, with pet owners recommending the food for its quality and the positive impact on their puppies' well-being.