Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe For Small Breed Adult Dogs Review

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Review of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe For Small Breed Adult 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 Life Protection Formula Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe For Small Breed Adult 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 Life Protection Formula Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe For Small Breed Adult Dogs, we'll examine all 61 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. Lamb is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids necessary for your dog's muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. It's also a good option for dogs with sensitivities to other protein sources, such as chicken or beef.

  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. 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.

  4. Barley is a nutritious, fiber-rich grain that helps promote healthy digestion and provides essential nutrients for your dog's overall health. It is also a great source of energy, vitamins, and minerals.

  5. Oatmeal is a highly digestible and nutritious source of carbohydrates that provides your dog with energy, fiber, and essential nutrients for a healthy digestive system and overall well-being.

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

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. Pea starch is a carbohydrate source derived from peas, providing an alternative to grains for dogs with sensitivities. It serves as a source of energy, supports healthy digestion, and contributes to the overall balance of your dog's diet. Pea starch also has a low glycemic index, which can help manage blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes or weight management needs.

  11. Fish meal is a highly digestible protein source for dogs, providing essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients. It supports skin and coat health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

  12. Dried yeast is a nutrient-rich ingredient that provides essential B vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It supports a healthy immune system, promotes skin and coat health, and aids in maintaining overall well-being in your dog.

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

  14. Dried egg product is a highly digestible source of protein that can help to build and maintain your dog's muscle tissue.

  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. Dicalcium phosphate is a calcium and phosphorus supplement that helps to support the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth in dogs.

  17. Direct dehydrated alfalfa pellet is a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich ingredient that supports your dog's digestive health and overall well-being. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote a healthy immune system and contribute to a well-balanced diet.

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

  19. 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.

  20. Dried chicory root is a natural prebiotic fiber that can help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and support your dog's digestive health. It also contains inulin, which can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and support overall immune system function.

  21. Alfalfa nutrient concentrate is a nutrient-dense ingredient made from alfalfa, a plant rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can support your dog's overall health by providing essential nutrients, promoting a healthy immune system, and improving digestion.

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

  23. 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.

  24. L-threonine is an essential amino acid that supports the immune system, muscle growth, and the production of collagen in dogs, contributing to a healthy skin, coat, and joints.

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

  26. Dried sweet potato is a source of dietary fiber which aids in healthy digestion, and also contains vitamins like vitamin A and C.

  27. 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.

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

  29. 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.

  30. 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.

  31. Vegetable juice color is a natural coloring agent derived from vegetables, providing a visually appealing appearance to dog food without the use of artificial colors or preservatives.

  32. Glucosamine hydrochloride is a vital supplement that supports joint health and mobility in dogs. It helps maintain the cartilage in joints, reducing inflammation and promoting overall joint comfort.

  33. 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.

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

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

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

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

  38. Barley grass is a nutrient-rich plant that provides a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog's immune system, digestion, and overall health.

  39. Parsley is a source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and it also supports fresh breath.

  40. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spice that can help support your dog's joint health, immune system, and overall well-being.

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

  42. 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.

  43. Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for a dog's metabolism and energy production, and supports healthy skin and coat.

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

  45. 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.

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

  47. 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.

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

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

  50. 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.

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

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

  54. Riboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is essential for energy production, cell function, and fat metabolism in your dog's body.

  55. 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.

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

  57. 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.

  58. 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.

  59. 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.

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

  61. Oil of rosemary is often used in dog food as a natural preservative. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit your dog's health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 24.00%: This value indicates that the product contains a minimum of 24% protein. Protein is a crucial nutrient for dogs as it helps in the growth and repair of their body tissues. It also plays a vital role in the creation of antibodies that help fight infections. A high protein content is particularly beneficial for active dogs and those with high muscle mass.

Crude Fat (min) of 16.00%: The product contains a minimum of 16% fat. Dietary fat is essential for dogs as it provides them with the energy they need to stay active. It also aids in the absorption of certain vitamins, contributes to a healthy skin and coat, and enhances the flavor of the food, making it more appealing to the dog.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: The maximum crude fiber content in this product is 4%. Dietary fiber is important for a dog's digestive health. It aids in maintaining a healthy weight by making dogs feel full without adding extra calories. It also helps in regulating bowel movements and can contribute to the prevention of certain health problems like constipation and diarrhea.

Calories of 3721.00 per kg: This value means that the product contains 3721 calories per kilogram. This caloric content helps pet owners determine the appropriate serving size for their pets, based on their weight, activity level, and overall health status. It's important to feed the right amount to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related health issues.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe For Small Breed Adult Dogs costs approximately $2.86 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $16.46
10 lbs $27.68
15 lbs $37.52
20 lbs $46.56
30 lbs $63.10

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers express great satisfaction with Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, particularly noting its positive impact on their dogs' digestive health. Many report that their sensitive-stomach or picky-eating pets have had no issues with the lamb and brown rice recipe, and some have seen improvements in their dogs' coat condition.

Several reviewers have enthusiastically shared that their dogs, who previously showed little interest in other brands or flavors, now eagerly consume the lamb and brown rice variety. They appreciate the small breed-specific kibble size and the high-quality ingredients that contribute to their dogs' overall health and well-being.

Even among the few customers whose dogs did not prefer the lamb flavor, there is recognition of the brand's nutritional value. These customers often mention their intent to explore other flavors within the Blue Buffalo range that might be more appealing to their pets.

Some owners have experienced transformative results after switching to Blue Buffalo, with their dogs showing increased energy levels and fewer gastrointestinal issues. The brand is also praised for providing grain-inclusive options, which are important for certain breeds with specific dietary needs.

In response to the minority of negative reviews, it's evident that food preferences can vary greatly among individual dogs, and what works for one may not work for another. However, the overwhelming majority of feedback indicates that Blue Buffalo's lamb and brown rice recipe is a successful and beloved choice for many small breed dogs.