Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe (Freeze-Dried Raw) For Dogs Review

Review of Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe (Freeze-Dried Raw) For Dogs

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

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe (Freeze-Dried Raw) 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 Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe (Freeze-Dried Raw) For Dogs, we'll examine all 13 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. Chicken liver is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides your dog with protein, fat, and vitamin A. It's also a great source of iron, copper, niacin, zinc, and phosphorus.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

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

7. 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.

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

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

10. Zinc amino acid complex is a more digestible form of zinc that can support your dog's immune system, skin health, and coat quality.

11. Iron amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable source of iron for dogs, which supports red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body. It helps maintain overall health and vitality for your furry friend.

12. Copper amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable source of copper, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and promotes red blood cell production.

13. Manganese amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable form of manganese, an essential trace mineral that supports healthy bones, joints, and metabolism. This ingredient ensures that your dog receives the proper amount of manganese for optimal health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 30.00%: The primary contributor to the crude protein content in this pet food is the chicken, which is the first ingredient listed and is a high-quality source of protein. Chicken liver, also high in protein, further contributes to this value. Proteins are crucial for the growth, maintenance, and repair of a dog's body tissues.

Crude Fat (min) of 28.00%: The chicken, chicken liver, and flaxseed contribute to the crude fat content. Chicken is a source of animal fat, while flaxseed provides plant-based fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. Herring oil is another significant contributor, being rich in essential fatty acids that are beneficial for a dog's skin, coat, and overall health.

Crude Fiber (max) of 5.00%: Sweet potato is the ingredient most likely responsible for the fiber content. Tapioca starch may also contribute a small amount of fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and support the gut microbiome.

Calories of 4590.00 per kg: The caloric content is influenced by all the macronutrients - proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The high level of calories is likely due to the significant amount of fat from the chicken, chicken liver, flaxseed, and herring oil, as fats are more calorie-dense than proteins or carbohydrates. The inclusion of carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and tapioca starch also adds to the total caloric value.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe (Freeze-Dried Raw) For Dogs costs approximately $25.25 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have expressed that their dogs are very fond of the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe. Pet owners are using it as both a treat and a food topper, noting that even picky eaters are drawn to the taste. The product has become a regular addition to many dogs' diets due to the positive reception from their furry companions.

One particular highlight from the reviews is the product's impact on dogs' health, with one puppy owner mentioning improved digestion and firmer stools. Additionally, a customer consulted their vet and received approval for their older dogs with heart conditions to consume this food, which the pets thoroughly enjoy.

In response to a concern about the treats being too hard and potentially sharp, it's worth noting that most reviews do not mention this issue, suggesting that it may not be a widespread problem. The treats' firmness might be an isolated concern or a matter of personal preference for the pet owner and their dogs.

Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with dogs showing excitement at meal times and owners appreciating the clean, non-staining nature of the treats during walks. The versatility of the product as both a meal enhancement and a treat is also a plus, with one owner planning to explore other flavors to maintain their dog's interest.