Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Mini Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe Review

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Review of Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Mini Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe

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

Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Mini Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry 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 Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Mini Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe, we'll examine all 51 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. Dehydrated lamb is a high-quality protein source for dogs, made by removing moisture from lamb meat. It provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to support muscle growth, maintenance, and overall health.

  3. Whole spelt is a nutritious whole grain that provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

  4. Whole oats are a nutritious and easily digestible grain that provides essential nutrients, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, to support your dog's overall health and digestion.

  5. Chicken fat is a highly palatable source of energy, providing essential fatty acids for a healthy skin and coat, as well as supporting your dog's immune system.

  6. Herring is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids support a healthy skin and coat, reduce inflammation, and promote optimal brain function and overall health in dogs.

  7. Dehydrated herring is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids to support your dog's muscle growth and overall health.

  8. Dried whole egg is a highly digestible source of protein for dogs, and it also provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

  9. Dried Beet Pulp is a source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health and provides energy for dogs.

  10. Herring oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy skin and coat, support brain function, and contribute to overall heart health in your dog.

  11. 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.

  12. Sun-cured alfalfa meal is a nutrient-dense ingredient that provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

  13. Chicken cartilage is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are beneficial for joint health.

  14. Inulin is a natural prebiotic fiber that supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut, promoting digestive health and overall immune function.

  15. 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.

  16. Yeast extract is a natural source of high-quality protein, B vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog's muscle development, energy levels, and overall health. It can also help enhance the flavor of dog food, making it more palatable for your pet.

  17. 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.

  18. Dried spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall wellness.

  19. Psyllium seed husk is a natural source of soluble fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and maintain regular bowel movements. It can also help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating.

  20. 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.

  21. Dried Sweet Orange is a source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, promoting a healthy immune system.

  22. Dried pomegranate is a nutrient-dense fruit that provides your dog with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Antioxidants help combat free radicals and oxidative stress, promoting a strong immune system and overall health.

  23. 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.

  24. Dried brewers yeast is a natural source of B vitamins and amino acids, which can help support your dog's skin, coat, and overall health.

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

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

  27. 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.

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

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

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

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

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

  33. 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.

  34. Thiamine hydrochloride, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient that supports your dog's nervous system, metabolism, and energy production. It's important for maintaining overall health and well-being in dogs.

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

  36. 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.

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

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

  39. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system and overall well-being. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and vision, making it an essential ingredient for your dog's diet.

  40. Zinc methionine hydroxy analogue chelate is a highly bioavailable form of zinc, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and proper metabolic function.

  41. Manganese methionine hydroxy analogue chelate is a highly bioavailable form of manganese that supports your dog's bone and joint health, enzyme function, and overall well-being.

  42. Ferrous glycine is a highly bioavailable form of iron, an essential mineral that supports your dog's immune system, energy production, and red blood cell function. This ingredient contributes to overall health and vitality in your canine companion.

  43. Copper methionine hydroxy analogue chelate is a highly bioavailable source of copper, which is important for various bodily functions including iron absorption, brain development, and immune function.

  44. Selenium yeast is a natural source of the mineral selenium which supports immune function and provides antioxidant benefits.

  45. 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.

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

  47. 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.

  48. Aloe vera gel concentrate can provide digestive support and promote skin health in dogs.

  49. Green tea extract contains antioxidants that help protect your dog's cells from damage and support overall health.

  50. 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.

  51. 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

Crude Protein (min) of 30.00%: This high level of protein is primarily provided by the lamb and dehydrated lamb, which are the first two ingredients and thus the most abundant in the formula. These are excellent sources of animal protein that help support muscle growth and maintenance. Dehydrated herring and dried whole eggs further contribute to the overall protein content, providing a diverse profile of essential amino acids necessary for a growing puppy.

Crude Fat (min) of 20.00%: The crude fat content is quite significant in this puppy food, which is essential for supplying energy as well as supporting cell structure and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Chicken fat, herring oil, and the fats naturally present in the lamb and herring provide this high fat content. Fats also contribute to the palatability of the food and help with skin and coat health.

Crude Fiber (max) of 2.50%: The crude fiber content is relatively low, which is suitable for a growing puppy's digestive system. Fiber is essential for gastrointestinal health, and the sources in this food include whole spelt, whole oats, dried beet pulp, suncured alfalfa meal, psyllium seed husk, and various dried fruits and vegetables such as dried carrot and dried spinach. These ingredients help regulate the digestive process and provide prebiotic benefits, while ensuring the food is not too high in fiber, which could interfere with nutrient absorption.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Mini Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe costs approximately $4.47 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppy
5 lbs $14.73
10 lbs $24.77
15 lbs $33.57
20 lbs $41.65
30 lbs $56.45

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate the high-quality ingredients in Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Mini Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats, and Blueberry Recipe, with many noting that their puppies love the taste and are thriving on it. The lamb-first formula is well-received by those seeking alternatives to chicken-based diets, and the inclusion of grains and blueberries is often highlighted as a positive feature.

Several reviewers have mentioned that their picky eaters readily accepted this food, indicating its palatability. They also report improvements in their puppies' coat quality and digestive health after switching to Farmina. The absence of fillers and by-products in the ingredients list is frequently cited as a reason for their trust and satisfaction with the brand.

While there have been isolated incidents of mold in the bags, the company seems responsive with replacements, and these instances do not detract from the overall high ratings for the food's quality and appeal to dogs. Some dogs have experienced digestive issues like constipation or gas, but these seem to be the exception rather than the norm. The brand is also commended for its wholesome approach to puppy nutrition, with some owners noting better stool consistency and reduced allergic reactions after transitioning to Farmina.

In response to concerns about the freshness of the product, customers are reassured by the vacuum-sealed packaging, although they do expect fresher products considering the price point. Despite this, many are willing to invest in the brand for the perceived health benefits for their puppies. The food's aroma, described as stinky by some, is not seen as a deterrent, and a few even find it pleasant, especially noting the scent of blueberries.

The brand's commitment to using non-GMO ingredients and avoiding glycosphate is appreciated by those who are health-conscious about their pet's diet. Even though the kibble size was an issue for some, with one customer finding the mini kibble too small for hand-feeding during training, the overall consensus is that Farmina provides a balanced and nutritious option for puppies, with many planning to continue using the brand as their dogs grow.