Blackwood All Life Stages Special Diet - Salmon Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Review

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Review of Blackwood All Life Stages Special Diet - Salmon Meal & Brown Rice Recipe

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

Blackwood All Life Stages Special Diet - Salmon Meal & Brown Rice 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 Blackwood All Life Stages Special Diet - Salmon Meal & Brown Rice Recipe, we'll examine all 60 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 meal is a high-quality protein source that also provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, as well as overall wellness.

  2. Brown rice is a whole grain that provides an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients for your dog. The fiber content can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, while the carbohydrates provide energy for an active lifestyle.

  3. Millet is a gluten-free grain that provides essential nutrients like magnesium, copper, and phosphorus, promoting your dog's heart health and bone health.

  4. Oat groats provide a wholesome source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to healthy digestion and overall well-being in your dog.

  5. Ground grain sorghum is a gluten-free, whole-grain ingredient that provides a source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and sustained energy levels for your dog.

  6. Canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of healthy fats that can help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. It's preserved with mixed tocopherols (forms of vitamin E) to maintain freshness.

  7. 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.

  8. Rice bran is the outer layer of the rice grain and it's a good source of dietary fiber, helping to support your dog's digestive health. It also contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants.

  9. Dried tomato pomace is a fiber-rich ingredient derived from tomatoes, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut in dogs.

  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. Lecithin is a naturally occurring fatty substance that can help support your dog's overall health. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cell membrane integrity and provides essential fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, lecithin aids in fat digestion and absorption, promoting optimal nutrient utilization.

  12. Monosodium phosphate is often used in dog foods as a source of phosphorus, a mineral that is essential for bone health and energy production in your dog's body.

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

  14. 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.

  15. DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that supports your dog's overall health by promoting proper protein synthesis, maintaining healthy skin and coat, and aiding in the detoxification process.

  16. Pumpkin meal is a rich source of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and promotes regular bowel movements in your dog. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, potassium, and iron, for overall health.

  17. Dried seaweed meal is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can support your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

  18. Dried cranberry is a natural source of antioxidants and dietary fiber, which can help support your dog's digestive health and urinary tract health.

  19. Dried blueberries are a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support your dog's immune system, eye health, and overall well-being. This ingredient adds a burst of flavor and color to your dog's food, making it more enjoyable and nutritious.

  20. Dried apple pomace is a natural source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients for dogs. It supports digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.

  21. Calcium carbonate is a valuable source of calcium, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth, and for supporting proper muscle function in your dog.

  22. L-lysine is an essential amino acid that helps support a healthy immune system and aids in the production of enzymes and antibodies.

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

  24. 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.

  25. 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.

  26. Ground rosemary is an antioxidant-rich herb that can help support your dog's overall health. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit dogs with joint issues and can also aid in digestion, making it a valuable addition to your dog's diet.

  27. Ground thyme contains natural antioxidants and adds a subtle flavor to your dog's food, while also promoting overall health.

  28. While ground cumin is mainly used for flavor, it also provides some antioxidant benefits, although it is typically used in small amounts.

  29. Ground yellow mustard is a flavorful and nutritious ingredient that contains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support your dog's immune system and overall well-being.

  30. Crushed red chili pepper is a spice that adds a unique flavor to dog food. In small amounts, it can be beneficial to your dog's digestion and metabolism. However, it is essential to use caution with this ingredient, as excessive amounts can cause irritation and discomfort.

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

  32. L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate is a stable form of vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system, joint health, and overall wellness.

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

  34. 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.

  35. 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.

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

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

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

  39. Vitamin A acetate is a form of vitamin A, which is essential for your dog's overall health. It supports healthy vision, immune function, and proper growth and development. Vitamin A acetate also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and coat, ensuring your dog looks and feels its best.

  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. Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of dog food. It also acts as an antioxidant, which can help protect your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  42. 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.

  43. Biotin is a B-vitamin that's important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails in dogs.

  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. 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.

  46. 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.

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

  48. 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.

  49. 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.

  50. Zinc Oxide is a source of zinc, an essential mineral that supports immune function and skin health in dogs.

  51. 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.

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

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

  54. Manganous oxide is an important trace mineral that helps support your dog's metabolism, bone formation, and nerve function.

  55. 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.

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

  57. Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria in your dog, promoting optimal digestion and immune system function.

  58. Dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product is a probiotic that can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog's gut, supporting overall digestive health.

  59. Dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog's gut, promoting digestive health.

  60. Dried lactobacillus reuteri fermentation product is a probiotic that helps support your dog's digestive health by maintaining a balanced gut flora. It can also promote a healthy immune system and may help alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or constipation.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 24.50% is largely contributed by the Salmon Meal, which is the first ingredient listed. This ingredient is a concentrated source of animal protein. Other ingredients like Brown Rice, Millet, and Oat Groats also contribute to the protein content, but to a lesser extent.

The Crude Fat minimum of 14.00% is primarily from the Canola Oil, which is preserved with Mixed Tocopherols. Fats are essential for energy and healthy skin and coat. The Salmon Meal also contributes to the fat content.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 3.50% comes from several ingredients. The Brown Rice, Oat Groats, and Ground Grain Sorghum are grains that provide dietary fiber. The Dried Plain Beet Pulp is a fiber-rich by-product of sugar beet processing, and Rice Bran is the hard outer layer of grain. These ingredients help with digestion and stool quality.

The Calories of 3578.00 per kg are derived from all the ingredients, but primarily from the Salmon Meal and Canola Oil, which are high in protein and fat respectively. The grains (Brown Rice, Millet, Oat Groats, and Ground Grain Sorghum) also contribute significant calories as they are sources of carbohydrates.

In addition to these, the recipe includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and supplements that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the pet. The probiotics listed at the end (Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium animalis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus reuteri Fermentation Product) aid in digestion and boost the immune system.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Blackwood All Life Stages Special Diet - Salmon Meal & Brown Rice Recipe costs approximately $2.79 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $10.68$16.70
10 lbs $17.97$28.08
15 lbs $24.36$38.06
20 lbs $30.22$47.22
30 lbs $40.96$64.00
40 lbs $50.83$79.42
50 lbs $60.09$93.88
60 lbs $68.89$107.64
70 lbs $77.33$120.83
80 lbs $85.48$133.56
90 lbs $93.37$145.90
100 lbs $101.05$157.89

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate the Blackwood All Life Stages Special Diet - Salmon Meal & Brown Rice Recipe for its positive effects on their dogs' health, including improved digestion, energy levels, and skin conditions. Dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies seem to respond particularly well to this food. Several reviewers reported that their dogs' stools became more regular and their coats shinier after switching to this formula.

However, some customers expressed concerns about the food causing yeast infections in their dogs' ears due to ingredients like beet pulp and millet. It's recommended to consult with a vet if your dog has similar issues.

Price increases have dissuaded some customers from continuing to purchase this food, despite their satisfaction with the product itself. They believe that there are other brands with similar ingredients available at a more affordable price.

A few customers also noted that while their dogs enjoyed the food initially, they eventually lost interest. This could be due to the small size of the kibble, which some dogs may not find satisfying.

Despite these concerns, many customers are happy with the results they've seen in their dogs' health and plan to continue using this product. They appreciate its high-quality ingredients and the fact that it caters to dogs of all life stages.