Instinct Raw Boost Skin & Coat Grain-Free Recipe With Real Chicken Review

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Review of Instinct Raw Boost Skin & Coat Grain-Free Recipe With Real Chicken

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

Instinct Raw Boost Skin & Coat Grain-Free Recipe With Real Chicken 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 Instinct Raw Boost Skin & Coat Grain-Free Recipe With Real Chicken, we'll examine all 53 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. Chicken is a lean, easily digestible source of protein that provides essential nutrients for your dog's growth and maintenance. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

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

  5. Tapioca is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy and can be easily digested by most dogs.

  6. Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid) is a source of essential fatty acids which can improve skin and coat health, as well as provide a concentrated source of energy.

  7. Ground flaxseed is an excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. It can support your dog's skin and coat health, digestive system, and overall well-being.

  8. Egg product is a highly digestible source of protein that also provides essential amino acids to help build and maintain your dog's muscle tissue.

  9. Freeze dried chicken (ground with bone) 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 contributes to a strong immune system.

  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. Freeze dried chicken liver is a highly nutritious ingredient that provides a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and protein for your dog. It is an excellent addition to dog food, as it supports overall health and well-being, and contributes to a shiny coat and strong immune system.

  12. Ground chia seed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and essential nutrients that can support your dog's overall health. This ingredient can help maintain healthy skin and coat, support joint health, and aid in digestion. Including ground chia seed in your dog's diet can provide numerous health benefits.

  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. Salmon oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, immune system, and cognitive function.

  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. 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. Pumpkin seed is a natural source of antioxidants, beneficial oils, and fiber. It also has deworming properties.

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

  19. Freeze Dried Chicken Heart is a great source of lean protein and taurine, an essential amino acid for heart health in dogs.

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

  21. 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.

  22. 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.

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

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

  25. 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.

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

  27. 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.

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

  29. 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.

  30. 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.

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

  32. 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.

  33. Apple is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's digestive health, immune system, and overall well-being.

  34. Freeze dried cod is a high-quality source of protein that supports muscle development and provides omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. The freeze-drying process retains the nutritional content while providing convenience and a longer shelf life.

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

  36. 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.

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

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

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

  40. Ethylenediamine dihydriodide is a form of iodine used in dog foods. Iodine is crucial for your dog's thyroid health, which regulates metabolism and energy.

  41. Hydrolyzed yeast is used as a flavor enhancer in dog food. It can also support a healthy immune system and aid digestion due to the presence of beta-glucans.

  42. Yeast culture is a beneficial ingredient included in dog food to support overall digestive health. It is a natural source of prebiotics, which help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improve nutrient absorption, and aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

  43. 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.

  44. 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.

  45. Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract is a source of enzymes that can aid in the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients.

  46. Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract is a source of beneficial enzymes that can aid in digestion and the breakdown of nutrients in your dog's food. This helps ensure that your dog can properly absorb and utilize the nutrients they need for optimal health.

  47. The dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract is a probiotic that helps promote a healthy gut microbiome, improving your dog's digestion and overall health.

  48. Beet juice is a natural source of sugars and can enhance the taste of the dog food. It also contains fiber which promotes digestive health.

  49. 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.

  50. 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.

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

  52. Montmorillonite clay is a natural source of minerals and can help support your dog's digestive health by binding and eliminating toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.

  53. 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.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 32.50% in this pet food is likely contributed by the chicken, menhaden fish meal, chicken meal, and egg product. Chicken and chicken meal are high-quality sources of protein that provide essential amino acids necessary for a dog's muscle structure and function. Menhaden fish meal is another concentrated source of protein that also supplies omega-3 fatty acids. The inclusion of egg product further boosts the protein content, as eggs are known for their high biological value in terms of protein content.

The Crude Fat minimum of 20.00% can be attributed to ingredients such as chicken fat, menhaden fish meal, and salmon oil. Chicken fat is a high-energy source and also provides essential fatty acids for skin and coat health. Salmon oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin and coat, as well as supporting the immune system and overall health.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 4.00% is relatively low, indicating that the food is not extremely high in indigestible plant matter. The fiber in this food likely comes from ingredients such as peas, ground flaxseed, and other plant-based ingredients. Peas provide fiber and are also a source of carbohydrates and protein. Ground flaxseed is another ingredient that contributes to the fiber content and also provides omega-3 fatty acids.

The calorie content of 4615.00 per kg indicates that this is a high-energy food, which is consistent with the high levels of protein and fat. The caloric density is important for active dogs or those needing to maintain weight, and it is influenced by the combined macronutrient profile of the food, including fats and proteins, which are more calorie-dense than carbohydrates.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Instinct Raw Boost Skin & Coat Grain-Free Recipe With Real Chicken costs approximately $5.23 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $24.26
10 lbs $40.80
15 lbs $55.31
20 lbs $68.62
30 lbs $93.01
40 lbs $115.41
50 lbs $136.44
60 lbs $156.43
70 lbs $175.60
80 lbs $194.10
90 lbs $212.02
100 lbs $229.46

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have expressed satisfaction with how Instinct Raw Boost Skin & Coat Grain-Free Recipe With Real Chicken has positively impacted their pets. One terrier mix, known to be extremely picky, eagerly eats this particular food, which is a relief for the pet owner. Similarly, a customer with a picky eater named Tyler notes that not only does Tyler continue to enjoy the food after three weeks, but it has also helped alleviate his itchy skin, indicating an improvement in his condition.

Several pet owners have observed noticeable improvements in their dogs' coats and overall health after switching to this food. An owner of an 80-pound amstaff reports that after feeding their dog Instinct for over a year, and the skin and coat formula for four months, the dog's coat has become softer and shinier. Despite the higher price point, the customer feels the benefits justify the cost. Another owner mentions that their dog's itching has subsided since incorporating this food into their diet, which involves a mix of home-cooked meals and this kibble.

For those concerned about the appeal of the food, reviews highlight that even notoriously finicky dogs, such as a German Shepherd mentioned by one customer, are fond of the flavor. This suggests that the recipe is well-received by pets with selective tastes. While some negative reviews point out a lack of freeze-dried pieces or an overpowering fishy smell, these seem to be isolated incidents that may not reflect the overall quality and appeal of the product to other dogs.