Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula - Duck, Lamb Meal, Wild Boar & Rabbit Recipe Review

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Review of Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula - Duck, Lamb Meal, Wild Boar & Rabbit Recipe

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

Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula - Duck, Lamb Meal, Wild Boar & Rabbit Recipe 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 Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula - Duck, Lamb Meal, Wild Boar & Rabbit Recipe, we'll examine all 56 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. Duck is a highly digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids, which support muscle development and energy in dogs.

  2. Lamb meal is a concentrated protein source, providing essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to support muscle development and overall health in dogs.

  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. Chickpea is a nutrient-dense legume that provides a valuable source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals to support your dog's overall wellbeing.

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

  6. Lentils are a high-quality, plant-based protein source that also provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight for your dog.

  7. Pea protein is a plant-based protein source that is often used as a supplement in dog food. It's beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or those on a plant-based diet.

  8. 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.

  9. Tomato pomace is a fiber-rich ingredient that can help support healthy digestion and maintain a healthy weight in dogs.

  10. 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.

  11. Wild boar is a lean and nutrient-dense protein source for your dog. It contains essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle growth, immune system function, and overall health. As an alternative to more common proteins like chicken and beef, wild boar can be a novel protein source for dogs with food sensitivities.

  12. Rabbit is a lean, novel protein source that is easily digestible and can be beneficial for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.

  13. Duck Flavor enhances the taste of the dog food, making it more appealing for dogs to eat while providing essential proteins.

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

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

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

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

  18. Chicory root extract is a natural source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that promotes healthy digestion and gut bacteria, supporting your dog's immune system and overall well-being.

  19. Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

  20. Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to promote overall health in dogs.

  21. 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.

  22. Parsley is a source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and it also supports fresh breath.

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

  24. Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  25. Kale is a nutrient-rich leafy green packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support a strong immune system, healthy skin, and coat in dogs.

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

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

  28. 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.

  29. Calcium carbonate is a valuable source of calcium, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth, and for supporting proper muscle function in your dog.

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

  31. 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.

  32. 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.

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

  34. 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.

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

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

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

  38. 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.

  39. 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.

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

  41. 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.

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

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

  44. 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.

  45. 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.

  46. 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.

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

  48. 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.

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

  50. The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.

  51. 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.

  52. Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria in your dog, promoting optimal digestion and immune system function.

  53. 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.

  54. 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.

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

  56. 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 34.00% is likely contributed by the first few ingredients listed: duck, lamb meal, chicken meal, chickpeas, peas, lentils, pea protein, wild boar, and rabbit. These are all high protein sources, with the meats and meals providing animal-based proteins, and the chickpeas, peas, lentils, and pea protein providing plant-based proteins.

The crude fat minimum of 16.00% is likely due to the duck, lamb meal, chicken meal, chicken fat, wild boar, and rabbit. Animal-based ingredients, especially meats and meals, are typically high in fats. The chicken fat specifically is a concentrated source of fat.

The crude fiber maximum of 6.00% probably comes from the chickpeas, peas, lentils, ground flaxseed, tomato pomace, spinach, broccoli, carrots, parsley, apples, blueberries, kale, and chicory root extract. These plant-based ingredients are known for their fiber content.

The calories of 3734.00 per kg is a result of the combination of all ingredients but is primarily influenced by the protein and fat content. Protein and fat are the main sources of calories in pet food. The high protein ingredients like duck, lamb meal, chicken meal, wild boar, and rabbit, and the high fat ingredients like chicken fat contribute the most to the calorie content.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula - Duck, Lamb Meal, Wild Boar & Rabbit Recipe costs approximately $3.60 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $20.67
10 lbs $34.75
15 lbs $47.11
20 lbs $58.45
30 lbs $79.22
40 lbs $98.30
50 lbs $116.21
60 lbs $133.24
70 lbs $149.57
80 lbs $165.32
90 lbs $180.59
100 lbs $195.44

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have reported that the Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula has been excellent for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies. Many have noticed improvements in their dogs' skin conditions, coat quality, and digestive health. However, some customers have noted that their dogs were not as enthusiastic about the food as they had hoped, suggesting that taste may be an issue for some pets.

Despite some dogs' initial reluctance, many owners have found that their pets eventually enjoy the food. Some customers have also found creative ways to make the kibble more appealing to their pets, such as mixing it with wet food or breaking it into smaller pieces. However, several customers feel that the kibble size is too large for smaller breeds.

The high protein content of the Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula is appreciated by many customers, particularly those with active dogs. However, some customers have expressed concern about the inclusion of pea protein and lamb meal in the ingredient list. Additionally, a few customers have reported that their dogs experienced digestive issues or allergic reactions after consuming the food.

Many customers have praised the quality of the ingredients in the Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula. However, some have expressed disappointment that certain ingredients, such as wild boar and rabbit, are not more prominent. Despite this, many customers have reported that their dogs' health and vitality have improved since switching to this food.

Despite the largely positive reviews, some customers have reported serious health issues in their dogs, such as heart failure, which they believe may be linked to the grain-free diet. These customers urge caution and recommend consulting with a vet before switching to a grain-free diet. However, it's important to note that these cases are relatively rare and the majority of customers have reported positive experiences with the product.

Overall, the Wellness Core Grain Free Wild Game Formula appears to be a high-quality food that is well-liked by many dogs, particularly those with food sensitivities or allergies. However, it may not be suitable for all dogs, and some owners may need to experiment with different feeding methods to make it more appealing to their pets.