Natural Balance Mini-Rewards Lamb Formula (Soft & Chewy) Review

Review of Natural Balance Mini-Rewards Lamb Formula (Soft & Chewy)

According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Natural Balance Mini-Rewards Lamb Formula (Soft & Chewy), we'll examine all 17 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. Ground Brown Rice is a nutritious whole grain that provides dogs with dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.

3. Dried potato is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides dogs with the energy they need for daily activities. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and well-being.

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

5. Water is an essential ingredient in wet dog food, providing hydration and helping to maintain the proper texture of the food.

6. Glycerin is a natural ingredient used as a humectant to help maintain the moisture content of dog food, keeping it fresh and palatable.

7. While sugar can be found in small amounts in some dog food recipes, it is not considered an essential ingredient for dogs. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain, dental issues, and other health problems in dogs. It is essential to provide a balanced diet with limited added sugars.

8. Cane molasses is a natural sweetener that adds a touch of sweetness to your dog's food, making it more palatable and enjoyable.

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. Gelatin is a natural source of collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and promotes a shiny, healthy coat for your dog.

11. 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.

12. Salmon oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin, coat, joints, and brain function. Mixed tocopherols, a natural form of vitamin E, help preserve the oil, ensuring its freshness and nutritional value for your dog.

13. Phosphoric acid is used in dog food as a pH stabilizer and a preservative, helping to maintain the freshness and quality of the product. It also aids in the absorption of essential minerals, promoting the overall health of your pet.

14. Sorbic acid is a food-grade preservative used to maintain freshness and extend shelf life in dog food. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption in small amounts.

15. Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of dog food. It also acts as an antioxidant, which can help protect your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

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

17. 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

Crude Protein (min) of 7.00%: The primary contributor to the crude protein content in this pet food is lamb, which is the first ingredient listed and thus the most abundant by weight. Lamb is a high-quality source of protein that supports muscle growth and maintenance. Other minor contributors to protein may include the gelatin and possibly the natural flavor, depending on its source.

Crude Fat (min) of 4.00%: The crude fat content is likely derived mainly from the lamb, as animal meat contains natural fats. Additionally, salmon oil is a significant source of fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a pet's coat and skin health. The inclusion of glycerin, while primarily used as a binder or humectant, can also contribute a small amount of fat.

Crude Fiber (max) of 5.00%: The crude fiber content in the food is most likely provided by the ground brown rice, dried potatoes, and dried sweet potatoes. These ingredients are carbohydrate sources that contain varying levels of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and support the gut microbiota. The maximum percentage indicates that fiber is not the primary focus of this food, but it is present in moderate amounts to aid in digestion.