Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Recipe For Large Breed Dogs Review

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Review of Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Recipe For Large Breed Dogs

According to our data, this Blue Buffalo recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult dogs. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Recipe For Large Breed Dogs is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult dogs.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Recipe For Large Breed Dogs, we'll examine all 35 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. Turkey is a lean protein source that can help build and maintain muscle mass in dogs. It is also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B6 and niacin.

  2. Turkey broth can be a flavorful addition to dog food that also provides hydration and nutrients. It's a good source of protein and flavor for picky eaters.

  3. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals for dogs, and are also high in fiber which can help keep your dog's digestive system running smoothly.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining a healthy skin and coat, supporting brain function, and promoting overall immune system health in dogs.

  7. Pumpkin is a nutritious and fiber-rich ingredient that can help support your dog's digestive health. Its high fiber content can aid in maintaining a healthy weight and promoting regular bowel movements.

  8. Guar gum is a natural thickening agent derived from the guar bean, used to improve the texture of your dog's food. It also serves as a source of soluble fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and support overall gastrointestinal health.

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

  10. 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.

  11. Carrageenan is a natural thickening agent derived from seaweed that helps improve the texture and consistency of your dog's food.

  12. Cassia gum is a natural thickening and gelling agent derived from the seeds of the Cassia plant. It helps improve the texture of dog food, making it more appealing to your pet. It is also a source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and overall gastrointestinal health.

  13. Cranberry is a fruit that can provide your dog with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, promoting urinary tract health and boosting their immune system.

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

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

  16. 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.

  17. Zinc amino acid chelate is a highly bioavailable form of zinc that supports your dog's immune system, skin, and coat health. This ingredient also plays a crucial role in wound healing and maintaining a healthy metabolism.

  18. Iron amino acid chelate is a highly bioavailable form of iron that supports red blood cell production, oxygen transport, and overall health in dogs.

  19. L-carnitine is an essential nutrient that helps your dog's body convert fat into energy, promoting a healthy weight and supporting their overall well-being.

  20. Copper amino acid chelate is an easily absorbed form of copper, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's connective tissue formation, metabolism, and overall health.

  21. Manganese amino acid chelate is a highly bioavailable form of manganese, a trace mineral that supports bone health and metabolic function.

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

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

  24. Cobalt amino acid chelate is an easily absorbed form of cobalt, an essential trace mineral that supports the production of vitamin B12 and overall red blood cell health in dogs.

  25. 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.

  26. Calcium pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that helps support your dog's energy metabolism and nervous system function.

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

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

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

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

  31. Potassium iodide is a chemical compound that can be used as a source of iodine in your dog's diet. Iodine is crucial for the proper functioning of your dog's thyroid gland.

  32. 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.

  33. 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.

  34. 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.

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

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 7.00% is likely primarily derived from the turkey and pea protein listed in the ingredients. Turkey is a high-quality source of protein that provides essential amino acids for dogs, and pea protein is a supplemental protein source that helps to boost the overall protein content.

The Crude Fat minimum of 6.00% is likely coming from the turkey, which contains natural fats, as well as from added fats like fish oil and flaxseed. Fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a dog's skin, coat, and overall health. Flaxseed is also a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contributing to the fat content and promoting healthy skin and coat.

The maximum Crude Fiber content of 1.50% is relatively low, indicating that this food is not heavily focused on fiber. However, ingredients such as pumpkin, which can aid in digestion, and possibly the potatoes, contribute to this fiber content. The low fiber percentage suggests a focus on easy digestibility, which is often a goal in limited ingredient diets.

The caloric content of 1380.00 per kg is the result of all the combined ingredients, with the main contributors being the protein and fat sources - turkey, pea protein, and fats like fish oil and flaxseed. Carbohydrates from potatoes also contribute to the overall calorie count, providing energy for active dogs.

The other ingredients listed, such as guar gum, carrageenan, and cassia gum, are typically used as thickeners or stabilizers and do not significantly contribute to the guaranteed analysis values. The fruits like cranberries and blueberries, along with the array of vitamins and minerals listed, are included for their nutritional benefits rather than their impact on the protein, fat, or fiber content.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Recipe For Large Breed Dogs costs approximately $3.73 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.