Natural Balance Targeted Nutrition Gentle Balance Dry Dog Food Review

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Review of Natural Balance Targeted Nutrition Gentle Balance Dry Dog Food

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 Targeted Nutrition Gentle Balance Dry Dog Food 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 Targeted Nutrition Gentle Balance Dry Dog Food, we'll examine all 55 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 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. Brown rice is a whole grain that provides an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients for your dog. The fiber content can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, while the carbohydrates provide energy for an active lifestyle.

4. 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.

5. Cassava flour is a gluten-free carbohydrate source derived from the cassava root. It provides energy for your dog's daily activities and is an excellent alternative for dogs with gluten sensitivities or allergies.

6. Barley is a nutritious, fiber-rich grain that helps promote healthy digestion and provides essential nutrients for your dog's overall health. It is also a great source of energy, vitamins, and minerals.

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

8. Brewers yeast is a natural source of B vitamins and protein, which can help support your dog's skin, coat, and overall health.

9. Salmon meal is a high-quality protein source that also provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, as well as overall wellness.

10. Dried plain beet pulp is a source of dietary fiber that can help support your dog's digestive health, promote regular bowel movements, and aid in nutrient absorption.

11. Oat groats provide a wholesome source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to healthy digestion and overall well-being in your dog.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. Oat fiber is a source of dietary fiber that can help support your dog's digestive health, as well as promoting a feeling of fullness and aiding in weight management.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

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

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

21. 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.

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

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

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

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

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

27. 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.

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

29. 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.

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

31. 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.

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

33. 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.

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

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. Ferrous sulfate is an important source of iron for dogs, a mineral essential for red blood cell production, oxygen transportation, and overall vitality. Adequate iron intake supports your dog's immune system and energy levels.

37. 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.

38. 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.

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 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.

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

42. 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.

43. 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.

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

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

46. 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.

47. Kelp meal is a natural source of essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements that support overall health, skin and coat condition, and immune system function in dogs.

48. Cranberry is a fruit that can provide your dog with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, promoting urinary tract health and boosting their immune system.

49. Parsley flakes are a natural herb that can help freshen your dog's breath and provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health and well-being.

50. L-lysine monohydrochloride is an essential amino acid that is crucial for protein synthesis, tissue repair, and the production of antibodies. It's a beneficial supplement that supports your dog's overall health.

51. 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.

52. 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.

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.

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

55. Spearmint extract provides a natural and refreshing flavor to dog food, as well as offering potential digestive and oral health benefits for dogs.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 28.00% in the Natural Balance Targeted Nutrition Gentle Balance Dry Dog Food is likely contributed by the chicken, chicken meal, and salmon meal. These are all high-quality sources of animal protein which are essential for a dog's muscle development and overall health. Chicken meal, in particular, is a concentrated source of protein because it is rendered from chicken parts and contains less water than whole chicken.

Crude Fat minimum of 16.00% comes from ingredients like chicken fat, salmon oil, and flaxseed. Chicken fat is a high-energy source and also provides essential fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Salmon oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for cognitive function and joint health. Flaxseed also contributes to the fat content and provides additional omega-3 fatty acids.

The maximum Crude Fiber of 6.00% is likely due to the inclusion of ingredients such as brown rice, barley, oat groats, oat fiber, dried plain beet pulp, and psyllium seed husks. These ingredients are sources of dietary fiber which is important for digestive health. Beet pulp, in particular, is a common fiber source in dog foods as it is a moderately fermentable fiber that can help support healthy digestion.

The caloric content of 3700.00 kcal/kg is influenced by the overall macronutrient composition, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The high protein and fat levels, as provided by the chicken, chicken meal, salmon meal, and fats, contribute to the higher calorie content. Carbohydrates from sources like brown rice, cassava flour, and barley also add to the caloric value, providing energy for dogs.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Natural Balance Targeted Nutrition Gentle Balance Dry Dog Food costs approximately $2.69 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.