Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe For Dogs Review

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Review of Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe For Dogs

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

Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe For 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 Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe For Dogs, we'll examine all 59 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. Duck is a highly digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids, which support muscle development and energy in dogs.

  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. 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.

  4. 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.

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

  6. 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.

  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. Tapioca starch is a grain-free carbohydrate source derived from the root of the cassava plant. It is used in dog food as a binding agent and energy source. Tapioca starch is easily digestible, making it a suitable ingredient for dogs with sensitive stomachs or grain allergies.

  9. Flaxseed meal is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as their immune and cognitive function.

  10. Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, are a great source of protein and fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.

  11. 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.

  12. Venison is a lean, high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle development and maintenance. It is also a novel protein, making it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

  13. Natural chicken flavor is a dog food ingredient used to enhance the taste and aroma of the product, making it more appealing to your pet. It is derived from real chicken and does not contain any artificial additives or chemicals. This natural flavoring helps encourage your dog to eat and enjoy their meals.

  14. Dried egg is a high-quality protein source that contains all the essential amino acids a dog needs.

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

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

  18. 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.

  19. Alfalfa meal is a nutrient-dense plant-based ingredient that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support your dog's overall health.

  20. Kelp is a nutrient-dense sea vegetable that provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including iodine, which supports thyroid health.

  21. 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.

  22. 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.

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

  24. Avocado is packed with healthy fats and nutrients that can support your dog's skin and coat health, boost their immune system, and contribute to overall health.

  25. Dried apple is a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and overall well-being. It also provides a natural sweetness that dogs enjoy.

  26. Dried carrot is a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog's immune system, vision, and overall health. This ingredient is also high in dietary fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight.

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

  28. Papaya is a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that can promote overall health in dogs. It supports a healthy immune system, digestive health, and provides antioxidants to protect against cellular damage.

  29. Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

  30. Kale powder is a concentrated source of vitamins and antioxidants that can support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  31. 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.

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

  33. 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.

  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. 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.

  36. Iron sulfate is an important source of iron, an essential mineral that supports your dog's red blood cell production, overall health, and vitality.

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

  38. 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.

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

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

  41. 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.

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

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

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

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

  46. 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.

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

  48. 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.

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

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

  51. 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.

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

  53. 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.

  54. Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is an essential antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system and helps reduce inflammation.

  55. 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.

  56. The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.

  57. 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.

  58. 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.

  59. Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product is a beneficial probiotic ingredient used in dog food. It helps support a healthy digestive system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This probiotic also aids in nutrient absorption and can improve your dog's overall immune system function.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The guaranteed analysis value of Crude Protein (min) of 35.00% is quite high, indicating that this dog food is rich in proteins. The primary contributors to this value are the animal-based ingredients: deboned duck, chicken meal, menhaden fish meal, turkey meal, and deboned venison. These ingredients are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues in dogs. The chicken meal, in addition to providing protein, is also a source of glucosamine, which supports joint health.

Crude Fat (min) of 18.00% reflects the amount of fat in the food, which is necessary for energy, as well as for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The ingredients contributing to this fat content include chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), which is a high-quality source of essential fatty acids. The menhaden fish meal may also contribute to the fat content, as fish are often good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for skin and coat health.

Crude Fiber (max) of 5.00% indicates the amount of indigestible or partially digestible plant material in the food, which aids in digestion and helps to keep the gastrointestinal system healthy. Ingredients such as sweet potatoes, peas, flaxseed meal, garbanzo beans, dried chicory root, and various fruits and vegetables contribute to the fiber content. Sweet potatoes and peas, in particular, are known for being high in dietary fiber.

The caloric content of 3665.00 per kg provides information on the energy that the product yields. This energy comes from the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the ingredients. Given that the product is grain-free, the carbohydrates are likely coming from sources such as sweet potatoes, peas, and tapioca starch, which are less traditional but still effective sources of energy for dogs.

Overall, the guaranteed analysis and the list of ingredients suggest that Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe for Dogs is formulated to provide a high-protein, moderate-fat, and moderate-fiber diet with a focus on quality animal proteins and grain-free carbohydrate sources.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe For Dogs costs approximately $4.57 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $26.69
10 lbs $44.88
15 lbs $60.83
20 lbs $75.48
30 lbs $102.31
40 lbs $126.95
50 lbs $150.07
60 lbs $172.07
70 lbs $193.15
80 lbs $213.50
90 lbs $233.22
100 lbs $252.39

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Many dog owners have found Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe to be a hit with their pets, especially for those with picky eaters. One customer mentioned their Great Pyrenees, who is selective about kibble, finally enjoyed their meals without fuss. In contrast, a negative review noted that all four of their dogs rejected the food, but this seems to be an isolated issue as other reviews are positive.

Several dogs with specific dietary needs or preferences have taken well to the food. For instance, a chihuahua enjoys it mixed with another brand, and a malnourished dog showed significant health improvement after being on this diet for six months. Although one dog didn't immediately take to it, the owner is considering other options, suggesting that the food's appeal may vary from dog to dog.

Some dogs with skin issues have benefited from the duck-based, grain-free formula, which is particularly helpful in hot, humid climates. A traveling vet's recommendation led one owner to choose this brand, resulting in a noticeable improvement in their dog's skin condition. Additionally, a long-term user reported that their working dog and other pets have thrived on Evolve for over five years, enjoying good health and energy levels.

A couple of dogs switched to Evolve after their regular brand was discontinued, and both have adapted well to the new food, despite one of them having a serious health condition. Another dog owner, whose pet is generally indifferent to meals, believes their dog likes the duck and venison recipe, although the dog's eating habits remain inconsistent. Overall, the feedback suggests that Evolve Grain-Free Deboned Duck, Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe is well-received by many dogs, with a few exceptions based on individual tastes and preferences.