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Victor: Has The Dog Food Brand Issued A Recall In 2024?
(Photo Credit: Grace ChonGetty Images)
Knowing there's something wrong with the dog food you're feeding your canine friend is anything but good news for a dog owner. Therefore, it's important to have crucial information to protect your dog's health and overall well-being.
There's been an increasing number of pet food brands issuing recalls, not only in the past few years, but as recently as in 2024. While there are different reasons why a company may decide to recall their products in compliance with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the major reason is usually contamination.
Is Victor among the pet food companies that have recalled their dog food in 2024? Here's everything you need to know.
Has Victor recalled its dog food in 2024?Thankfully, none of Victor's pet food products are under recall in 2024. So far, the Texas-based company hasn't announced a voluntary recall, and neither has the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed so.
It's also worth noting that there are no official reports of dogs sickened or dying after consuming Victor's dog foods in 2024. That means every pet food product from Victor is currently safe for consumption for our canine friends.
If you would like to learn more about past or current dog food recalls, we recommend you visit the Food and Drug Administration website.
When was the last Victor dog food recall?Victor Pet Food last issued a recall in 2023. According to the FDA, this recall targeted Victor Super Food Premium Dog Foods — among them the Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food — that had the Best By Dates 10/31/24.
Victor Pet Food issued this voluntary recall after a random sample test of the stated products uncovered possible Salmonella contamination. Unfortunately, some dogs and humans fell ill from the Salmonella bacteria.
While pets end up directly infected with Salmonella after consuming contaminated dog food, humans become sick if they handle the contaminated product without washing their hands thoroughly afterwards.
The post Victor: Has the Dog Food Brand Issued a Recall in 2024? Appeared first on DogTime.
Best Dog Food For Sensitive Stomachs, According To A Veterinarian
Food plays an important role in a dog's digestive health. Diets with exotic proteins and fewer ingredients are popular, but are they right for your dog's sensitive stomach? Conversations about the best dog food brands can be as controversial as cars and sports teams, but to help pet owners navigate the vast realm of dog foods for sensitive stomachs, I've covered my top picks that are available without a prescription. Before you go out and change your dog's diet, have a conversation with your veterinarian about what's best for your dog's nutritional needs.
How to choose the best dog food for sensitive stomachs Talk with your veterinarianA pet's health and diet history should be assessed by a veterinarian to determine if they truly have a sensitive stomach and not another medical condition, such as an endocrine condition called Addison's disease, or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, where they lack digestive enzymes. Your veterinarian is also your best resource for determining if your dog should be on a grain-free or grain-containing diet.
If a diet change is needed, your veterinarian will likely recommend a specific food to you (maybe via a twelve week food trial), or they may let you know which ingredients to avoid. Your veterinarian will need to know what treats, chews and supplements you give your dog. In addition to addressing diet, your dog may also need additional products to support their gut health, like a veterinary probiotic that is backed by research (e.G. Purina's FortiFlora.)
Pay attention to your dog food brand's protein sourceThough not all food intolerances pertain to protein, if a dog has a true allergy to a food, it's more likely that protein is the culprit than a carbohydrate. Even though determining what ingredients your dog can tolerate often takes time (e.G. A food trial), you may have also noticed that your pup doesn't respond well to certain protein-based treats. Navigating which protein to pick or avoid is best done with your veterinarian's guidance.
Limited-ingredient diets ideally have just one protein source and one carbohydrate source. But dog foods that are listed as limited-ingredient may actually contain more than one protein or more than one carbohydrate source. For example, Earthborn's Holistic Venture Limited-Ingredient Roasted Lamb & Butternut Squash contains two protein sources: lamb and Alaska pollack meal.
Then, there are novel proteins. A novel protein food is one that doesn't contain a standard protein, like beef, chicken, turkey or lamb. Instead, they contain protein sources like kangaroo, bison, or rabbit. To be novel, the protein must truly be one that a dog has never been exposed to.
Instead of an over-the-counter food, your veterinarian may also determine that your pet needs a prescription veterinary diet that contains hydrolyzed protein. When a protein has been hydrolyzed, its structure has been altered to reduce its allergenic potential.
Look at your dog food brand's fat contentA reduced-fat diet can be helpful for dogs with a sensitive digestive tract. That's why you may have been told to feed your dog plain, skinless chicken breast and white rice for diarrhea – it's bland and low-fat. Look for foods whose minimum crude fat is less than 17% (usually, a maximum won't be listed). For example, a minimum of 13%, like Earthborn's Holistic Venture Duck Meal & Pumpkin, may work better for some dogs compared to ACANA's Wholesome Grains Duck & Pumpkin, whose minimum is 17%.
Look at the life stage of your dog food brandSome foods are listed as "All Life Stage" and these can potentially be too much fat for a senior dog (e.G. ACANA's Wholesome Grains Duck & Pumpkin at 17%.) The packaging will also say in fine print if they are or aren't suitable for large breed puppies (breeds that will be 70 pounds or more as an adult). When shopping on websites like Chewy, don't rely on the website's own summary of the food specifications because some of the pages have incorrect information.
For example, on Chewy, neither Canidae PURE Goodness Salmon & Oatmeal Puppy or Acana Wholesome Grains Duck & Pumpkin All Life Stage diet meet the nutritional requirements for large breed puppies and the product packaging states that in fine print. But the summary provided by the website incorrectly says these foods are appropriate for large breed puppies. Look at the manufacturer's photos or website to clarify if a dog food is suitable for your dog's age.
Our top picks for best dog food brands for sensitive stomachs Best dry dog food for sensitive stomach: Zignature Select Cuts Trout & Salmon MealWith trout as the first ingredient—and no poultry—this food is a great place to start for a dog with a sensitive stomach or dogs with a poultry allergy. Though it's possible for any protein to be an allergen, fish allergy in dogs is less common than chicken or beef. If your dog turns their nose up at fish, the Select Cuts line also offers turkey and lamb. Many premium brands of dog foods (including Zignature) manufacture diets that contain peas, chickpeas, lentils and/or dry beans, but the Select Cuts line is free of these. These ingredients—also known as pulses—are being further researched, as they've been linked to some cases of canine diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM,) a type of heart disease. Pulses are particularly common in dry, grain-free dog foods but are sometimes also in diets containing grain.
Specifications:This fish-based diet is a great option for dogs needing a food with fewer ingredients, no poultry, plus it doesn't contain peas, lentils, chickpeas or dry beans.
Best dry dog food for sensitive stomach
Zignature Select Cuts Trout & Salmon Meal Best wet dog food for sensitive stomach: Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Grain-Free Duck & Potato
This duck-based diet is great for dogs who can't tolerate chicken, turkey, lamb or beef. Though some dogs can have a duck allergy, it's less likely than a chicken allergy. This food does contain one pea ingredient (pea protein), which is difficult to avoid with grain-free or limited-ingredient diets. The only reason I didn't choose the whitefish flavor option on this product is because it contains both peas and pea flour.
Specifications:Due to this being a wet food and not dry, where kibble size can be an issue, this duck-based food is a great choice for small and large breeds alike.
Best wet dog food for sensitive stomach
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Duck & Potato Adult Canned Dog Food, 12.5-oz, 12ct Best senior dog food for sensitive stomachs: Wellness CORE Digestive Health Age Advantage
This low-fat, single animal protein diet is great for senior dogs with a sensitive stomach. With nutrients such as glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids, this food also supports joint health.
Specifications:If your senior dog doesn't have a poultry allergy and your veterinarian has determined that peas are okay for your pet, this food is one to consider.
Best senior dog food for sensitive stomachs
Wellness CORE Digestive Health Age Advantage Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food, 24-lb bag Best dog food for puppies with sensitive stomach: Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Puppy Turkey & Potato
If your puppy does well on turkey, this food is a great choice because it is free of chicken, beef, lamb, corn, wheat, soy, dairy and eggs. It also contains nutrients that support healthy development, such as arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are derived from fish oil.
If you need a fish option for a small or medium breed puppy, consider Canidae PURE Goodness Salmon & Oatmeal Puppy. That food, however, does not meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. If your puppy can tolerate chicken and turkey, Wellness CORE Digestive Health Puppy: Chicken & Brown Rice is a great option too, including for large breed puppies.
Specifications:This is a great dog food for puppies with a sensitive stomach because the nutrient profile supports healthy development and gut health, plus the first ingredient is a chicken-alternative protein.
Best dog food for puppies with sensitive stomach
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Puppy Turkey & Potato Best dog food brand for sensitive stomach: Wellness
With their CORE Digestive Health line and two Simple limited-ingredient lines (grain-free and grain-containing,) there are plenty of gut-supporting options to choose from. All of the dry foods contain probiotics and prebiotic fiber. The dry CORE Digestive Health line contains seven dry diets, covering bases for Puppy, Small Breed Adult, Large Breed Adult, Adult and Senior. There are also three canned food options, all of which contain prebiotic fiber.
Simple (a grain-containing line) offers two protein options—duck and lamb—in both canned and dry. As with the CORE Digestive Health canned food, Simple also contains prebiotic fiber. The Simple Grain Free dry line has four options, including one for small breed dogs. Wellness has a total of nine different dry dog food lines to choose from.
Specifications:Wellness is my overall top pick for non-prescription, sensitive stomach dog food because of the variety of choices they offer and the ingredients they include that support gut health and overall wellness.
Best dog food brand for sensitive stomach
Best grain-free dog food for sensitive stomach: Earthborn Holistic Venture Limited-Ingredient Duck Meal & PumpkinThis higher fiber diet is made with farm-raised ducks (from France) as its only protein source. And it only contains two carbohydrate sources: Pumpkin and tapioca. The Venture line also comes in Alaska pollock, bison, rabbit, lamb, turkey and boar. To my delight, none of the foods in this line have peas, lentils, chickpeas or dry beans.
However, if you opt for one of the other protein options, read the label, as some of them have more than one animal protein source. For example, the rabbit and lamb diets also contain Alaska pollock. But the duck, pollock and turkey choices are single protein diets.
Specifications:This limited-ingredient diet is a win for me because it has the benefit of containing a single protein source, it's chicken-free and pea-free, it's lower in fat (crude fat minimum is 13%) and it's made in the United States.
Best grain-free dog food for sensitive stomach
Earthborn Holistic Venture Limited-Ingredient Duck Meal & Pumpkin Best budget dog food for sensitive stomach: Wholesomes Sensitive Skin & Stomach with Salmon Protein
Wholesomes is made by the same parent company as Earthborn, a family-owned business called Midwestern Pet Foods. This salmon-meal diet is free of peas, lentils and chickpeas and the price point is comparable to Purina ONE Plus Adult Digestive, which is chicken-based and corn-based. There is also a lamb meal and brown rice option.
Not all foods that are listed as "All Life Stages" actually meet the nutritional requirements for large breed puppies but this food does. Always read the fine print on the product itself. The bag will say whether there is an exception for puppies that will be 70 pounds or more as an adult.
Specifications:Dog food for allergies, be it digestive and/or skin, tends to be expensive but this food is a great option for someone on a budget whose dog needs to avoid ingredients like chicken.
Best budget dog food for sensitive stomach
Wholesomes Sensitive Skin & Stomach with Salmon Protein Signs your dog needs a special dog food brand for sensitive stomachs
There are many signs that your dog might have a sensitive stomach; however, these signs can also be indicative of serious medical issues. If your dog is having any sort of new, recurring, or ongoing digestive issues, please consult with your veterinarian so more serious medical issues are ruled out first.
VomitingDogs with a sensitive stomach can respond to an abrupt diet change with vomiting. They may also vomit when given foods that have a higher fat content or after eating excessive treats. Due to the many reasons for vomiting and the varying degrees of seriousness, if your dog has recurring vomiting, let your veterinarian know right away.
Diarrhea or loose stoolIf your pet is having loose stool due to a sensitive digestive tract, it can occur after a change in diet, the introduction of a new treat or if they got into the trash. In addition to noting what the possible trigger was, make sure to note things like frequency of loose stool (e.G. Once or twice a day or multiple times a day) if there is blood or not, and if your pet is straining to defecate or not. These pieces of information will help your veterinarian arrive at a diagnosis.
FlatulencePassing gas, or flatulence, can occur for many reasons, some of which don't specifically have to do with diet. But for dogs with a sensitive digestive tract, suddenly introducing them to a new food may cause them to experience flatulence. You might also hear gut sounds. That is, your dog's belly is gurgling. These things may also arise if a dog ingests something they shouldn't have. Sometimes, flatulence can occur on an ongoing basis when a food is poorly digested because it contains certain fiber-containing ingredients like peas, soybeans and beans.
Appetite changeWhen dogs with a sensitive stomach aren't responding well to something they ate, one of the symptoms can be a decrease in appetite, or not wanting to eat at all. Did you just change your pet's diet or add in a new treat? Did you recently have a family event at your house with lots of people and irresistible food? Or does your dog share your interest in indoor or outdoor plants and is sampling them?
Please discuss a decreased appetite with your veterinarian right away because it can be a sign of a major medical issue, such as a gastrointestinal foreign body (e.G. A toy trapped in the intestinal tract.) Waiting even a few days to address this can have dire consequences.
What goes into a quality diet for dogs?Generally, a quality diet for dogs promotes good gut motility, supports bacterial diversity in the intestinal tract and reduces gut inflammation. A certain food can be part of a quality diet and still not be digestible for a particular pet. To complicate things for the pet food shopper, food packaging sometimes states the product is "highly digestible," (like my top pick listed below). However, this term doesn't have a standardized definition.
What goes into digestibility?There are many factors that are involved in what makes the best dog food brands digestible for a certain dog, including:
So what food should your sensitive-stomach-pup eat? Unfortunately, there's no simple answer that works for all dogs because the reasons for a sensitive stomach (or sensitive digestive tract) are vast, and can be caused by factors inside or outside of the digestive tract. Factors from within the digestive tract include things like your dog eating something they shouldn't have, a food allergy, abrupt diet changes, intestinal parasites or a disruption in the gut bacterial population due to antibiotics. Factors from outside the digestive tract include things like kidney issues, pancreatitis or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
How we selected the best dog foods for sensitive stomach QualityI selected these foods based on the quality of ingredients, favoring meat and meat meal over meat by-products. These diets are also formulated without corn, wheat or soy. I selected diets that contain nutrients which support digestion and overall health, such as prebiotic fiber, probiotics and omega fatty acids. Some even contain glucosamine +/- chondroitin for joint health.
The caveat with probiotics in food, however, is that even if it's applied after the dog food has been processed, probiotics aren't going to stay viable in an open, non-refrigerated bag. They also don't withstand long storage. So, how long ago was the food produced? This is one of the reasons why a dog on a food containing probiotic may still need additional probiotic supplementation.
LabelingAll of the foods I chose are from established, reputable brands. The diets meet the nutritional guidelines of the Association for the American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for the life stage for which they are labeled. Due to the retail scope of the article and the inability of pet owners to obtain veterinary therapeutic diets without a prescription, those diets were not covered. Only foods labeled specifically as sensitive stomach, digestive health or limited-ingredient were reviewed.
Pulses and exotic proteinWhether or not a food contained pulses that have become common in dog food (peas, lentils, chickpeas or dry beans) was also a big factor, due to the FDA's concern that, for some dogs, these ingredients may be linked with diet-associated DCM, a type of heart disease. Since more research is needed, I avoided exotic protein sources for the same reason.
Exotic protein and/or pulses caused me to not pick foods by many brands, such as Solid Gold, ACANA, Orijen, Taste of the Wild and Canidae. For example, Solid Gold's Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach Salmon and Vegetable contains chickpeas, lentils, and peas as the third, fourth and fifth ingredients, respectively. And Orijen's Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food contains red lentils, pinto beans, navy beans, green lentils, chickpeas and peas.
After evaluating your pet's health and nutritional needs, your veterinarian is the best person to decide if your dog should be on an exotic protein diet and if a diet containing peas, lentils, chickpeas, or dry beans is okay.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) What food is good for dogs that throw up?There is no one food that will work for all dogs who vomit because there are numerous reasons for vomiting. For dogs with a sensitive stomach, things like food palatability, fat content, fiber type and quantity, protein sources and carbohydrate sources all need to be considered. You and your dog may also need to go through some trial and error to find the best dry dog food or canned food that works for them.
Does sensitive stomach dog food help?Sensitive stomach dog food, sometimes called dog food for allergies, can help if the pet truly has a diet-responsive condition. However, it's possible that even when diet is an important component of your dog's treatment, they may also need additional digestive support in the form of additional fiber, probiotics or even medication. Talk with your veterinarian before adding anything to your pet's diet.
Is wet or dry food better for dogs with sensitive stomachs?Though wet food contains more water content, it isn't automatically better for a dog with a sensitive stomach compared to dry food. The best way to determine which food may be better for your dog is to talk with your veterinarian. Since a food trial is the best way to determine if a pet will do well on a food or not, it may take some trial and error to find the best food for your pet.
What dog food is good for dogs with stomach issues?There is no one dog food that is appropriate for all dogs with stomach issues. For example, some dogs with a sensitive stomach may tolerate chicken just fine but may not be able to have foods and treats that are high in fat. Other dogs may not be able to consume poultry at all, even if it's in hydrolyzed form.
How do I transition my dog to dog food for sensitive stomachs?If possible, transition your dog to their new food over at least 10 days, potentially even 14 days. The way to do this is from day one to three, mix 75% of their old food with 25% of the new food. From day four to six, mix the food 50:50. On day seven to nine, use 25% of the old food and 75% of the new food. On day 10, offer 100% of the new food. Talk with your veterinarian if they feel like you should take longer (14 days) to transition your pet from one food to another.
The Best Puppy Foods Of 2024
Best wet These formulas from Wellness, Blue Buffalo, and Hill's are some of the best puppy foods you can buy. Petco; Chewy/Business Insider
The best dog food recipes are complete and balanced, which means they contain all the necessary nutrients required for a specific life stage, such as growth — the first stage of life when a puppy is growing. According to our experts, "complete" means the food contains all the essential nutrients required for a specific life stage, and "balanced" indicates that the nutrients are present in appropriate proportions.
Puppies need more macronutrients like protein and fat and micronutrients like vitamins and minerals than adult dogs, says Dr. Emily Luisana, a veterinary nutritionist at Friendship Hospital for Animals in Washington, DC. These nutrients give them enough energy for their rapid growth and playful behavior. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for puppy development since they aid in eye and brain development, Luisana says.
Our top picks for the best wet puppy food include recipes that meet or exceed the AAFCO's recommended nutrient profiles for puppies (22.5% protein and 8.5% fat) on a "dry matter basis," which is the nutrient content of food when the moisture content is removed. You can determine the dry matter basis by following the instructions provided by the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, contacting the food manufacturer directly, or seeking assistance from your veterinarian.
Wellness Complete Health Puppy RecipeChicken and salmon are the main protein sources in this food. Salmon provides omega fatty acids for proper brain development. Other healthy ingredients include sweet potatoes, apples, and bananas. The nutritional breakdown is 39% protein, 27% fat, 2% fiber, and 434 kcal per 12.5-ounce can, or about 35 calories per ounce.
Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Puppy Chicken and Vegetable RecipeChicken is the main protein source in this puppy food. Standout carbohydrates include carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, brown rice, and barley. This food also contains healthy extras like fish oil for omega fatty acids. It consists of 38.8% protein, 30% fat, and 2.6% fiber, with 422 kcal per 12.5-ounce can, or about 34 calories per ounce.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken and Barley Entree Canned Dog FoodThis puppy food has chicken as its main protein source. Whole grain corn, cracked pearled barley, and soybean meal provide carbohydrates. Other healthy ingredients include fish oil for omega fatty acids. It consists of 28% protein, 21.6% fat, and 1.7% fiber, with 482 kcal per 13-ounce can, or about 37 calories per ounce.
Best dry Wellness, Purina, and Merrick make high-quality dry food for puppies. Wellness; Purina; Merrick/Business Insider
As omnivores, puppies can eat both plant and animal protein-based foods, Welborn says. She explains that plant-based ingredients, such as soy, quinoa, chickpeas, barley, rice, and oats, help make puppy food nutritious and affordable.
Therefore, when it comes to the best dry dog food, grain-free recipes aren't necessarily healthier for dogs or puppies. In fact, there is ongoing concern surrounding grain-free dog foods and their potential link to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Luisana advises pet parents to discuss their puppy's diet with their veterinarian if they're feeding a grain-free diet or want to switch to a grain-free option.
Opting for kibble from a reputable manufacturer that meets the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) criteria and adheres to stringent quality control standards provides assurance that the recipe fulfills all your pup's nutritional requirements, says Dr. Julie Churchill, a veterinary nutritionist and professor of nutrition at University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. Our kibble recommendations for the best puppy foods are from trusted brands with exceptional quality control standards, including recipe oversight by on-staff veterinary nutritionists.
Wellness Complete Health Puppy Deboned Chicken, Oatmeal, and Salmon Meal RecipeDeboned chicken, chicken meal, and salmon meal are the main proteins in this food. The list of carbohydrates includes oatmeal, barley, peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, blueberries, apples, and flaxseed. It also contains probiotics and omega fatty acids from salmon meal and salmon oil. The nutritional breakdown is 29% protein, 18% fat, 4.5% fiber, and 450 kcal per cup.
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Chicken and Rice FormulaChicken, poultry byproduct meal, and fish meal are the main protein source in this dry food. Standout carbohydrates include rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn and wheat, and corn germ meal. Healthy extras consist of omega fatty acids from fish oil and soybean oil. The food contains 28% protein, 18% fat, 3% fiber, and 456 kcal per cup.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy RecipeChicken and chicken meal are the main protein sources in this recipe. Carbohydrates include brown rice, barley, oatmeal, apples, and carrots, and there are healthy extras including omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. It consists of 28% protein, 16% fat, 3.5% fiber, and 406 kcal per cup.
Best for large breed puppies These formulas from Nutro, Purina, and Royal Canin are formulated to promote healthy bones and weight in large breed puppies. Chewy; Purina/Business Insider
Welborn says feeding large breed puppies a diet specifically formulated for their needs is crucial. "There are certain orthopedic diseases that can occur with rapid growth, so large breed diets have a very specific ratio of calcium to phosphorus to help prevent these diseases from occurring," she says.
Additionally, large breed puppy food tends to be lower in caloric density to prevent puppies from becoming overweight. "The goal is appropriate and ideal growth, not maximum growth," Luisana says. She recommends monitoring your puppy's growth alongside a breed-specific growth chart like these ones by Waltham Petcare Science Institute.
Our picks meet a large breed puppy's needs with healthy additions like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
Nutro Ultra Large Breed PuppyChicken and chicken, lamb, and fish meals provide protein in this recipe. Carbohydrates include barley, brown rice, oats, kale, pumpkin, apples, carrots, blueberries, and spinach. Healthy extras include glucosamine, chondroitin from chicken meals, and omega fatty acids. The food contains 26% protein, 14% fat, 4% fiber, and 350 kcal per cup.
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Large Breed FormulaChicken is the main protein source in this food for large breed puppies. Standout carbohydrates include rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, and whole grain wheat. Healthy extras consist of omega fatty acids from fish oil plus glucosamine. The food contains 30% protein, 18% fat, 4.75% fiber, and 430 kcal per cup.
Royal Canin Large Puppy Thin Slices in GravyThis puppy recipe includes chicken, pork byproducts, chicken liver, and pork plasma as meat protein sources. Carbohydrates include brewers rice flour and wheat gluten. Other healthy ingredients include omega fatty acids from fish oil. This food contains 43.01% protein, 12.03% fat, 4.69% fiber, and 320 kcal per 13-ounce can.
Best for small breed puppies Wellness, Blue Buffalo, and Hill's make the best puppy foods for small breeds. Wellness; Amazon; Chewy/Business Insider
When it comes to the best dog food for small dogs, kibble size matters. "Very small dogs may have issues chewing large kibbles, whereas large breed dogs may have issues with very small kibbles," says Welborn. She adds that most puppies should eat at least three to four times daily, transitioning down to about twice a day as they reach adulthood.
Welborn says small breed puppies typically have a higher metabolism than large breed puppies, but that doesn't necessarily mean you should feed them more. Instead, talk to your veterinarian about their ideal body size and lifestyle. "Dogs typically sleep 70% of the day," says Welborn. "If they're sleeping that much, they don't need a ton of calories."
Our recommendations for the best puppy foods for small breeds meet the energy needs of small dogs, and our dry options include kibbles that are small enough for your tiny puppy to manage.
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed PuppyDeboned turkey, chicken meal, and salmon meal are the main proteins in this food that has undergone feeding trials. The list of carbohydrates includes oatmeal, barley, brown rice, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. This puppy food also contains probiotics and omega fatty acids from salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, and salmon oil. The nutritional breakdown is 28% protein, 19% fat, 4.25% fiber, and 489 kcal per cup.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy Chicken and Oatmeal RecipeDeboned chicken and chicken meal are the main protein sources in this food for puppies. Carbohydrates include oatmeal, barley, peas, brown rice, carrots, and sweet potato. Healthy additions include probiotics and omega fatty acids from fish meal and fish oil. The food contains 29% protein, 17% fat, 5% fiber, and 415 kcal per cup.
Hill's Science Diet Savory Stew With Chicken and Vegetables Small Paws PuppyChicken, pork liver, and pork plasma are the main protein sources in this puppy food. Brown rice, wheat flour, carrots, potatoes, and peas provide carbohydrates. Essential and beneficial additions include l-lysine for immune support and omega fatty acids for healthy development. The food contains 30.7% protein, 18.1% fat, 1.8% fiber, and 88 kcal per 3.5-ounce tray.
Best for sensitive stomachs If your puppy has digestive troubles, your vet may recommend one of these foods from Royal Canin, Wellness, or Blue Buffalo. Royal Canin; Chewy/Business Insider
Puppies can be born with sensitivities to ingredients or allergies to specific proteins, Luisana says. However, she adds that sensitivities and true food allergies aren't as prevalent as pet parents might believe. If you suspect your puppy is suffering from a food-related reaction or experiencing any gastrointestinal upset, it's crucial to work with your veterinarian to identify the root cause. Your veterinarian may recommend an elimination trial or a prescription diet, such as our pick from Royal Canin.
It's important to feed your pet high-quality puppy food that makes up 90% to 95% of their daily calorie needs, Churchill says. This ensures your pup gets all the necessary nutrients and minimizes the risk of gastrointestinal upset. The remaining 5% to 10% of daily calories can be from the best dog treats. Ideally, they serve as rewards during puppy training.
Veterinary nutritionists who ensure each recipe meets growing puppies' needs formulated our recommendations. Our gut-healthy picks also include soluble and insoluble fiber sources and probiotics that aid digestion.
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Puppy Ultra Soft Mousse in SauceThe main protein sources in this food are chicken, poultry, and pork byproducts; chicken; and pork plasma. Brewers rice flour is the standout carbohydrate source. Healthy additions include antioxidants from carotene and omega fatty acids. The food contains 48.85% protein, 29.8% fat, 7.84% fiber, and 140 kcal per 5.1-ounce can.
Wellness Core Digestive Health Wholesome Grains Puppy Chicken and Brown Rice RecipeDeboned chicken, chicken meal, and turkey meal are the main protein sources in this food. Brown rice, barley, oats, flaxseed, pumpkin, cranberries, apples, pomegranates, and blueberries provide carbohydrates. Essential and beneficial additions to this food include probiotics and omega fatty acids from marine microalgae oil. The food contains 31% protein, 15.5% fat, 4% fiber, and 398 kcal per cup.
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin and Stomach Care Puppy Potato and Turkey RecipeDeboned turkey and turkey meal make up the single animal-protein type in this sensitive stomach puppy formula. Oatmeal, peas, brown rice, potatoes, peas, pumpkin, and dried kelp are standout carbohydrate sources. Essential and beneficial additions to this food include probiotics and omega fatty acids. The food contains 26% protein, 15% fat, 5% fiber, and 394 kcal per cup.
Best fresh food Ollie, Just Food for Dogs, and The Farmer's Dog make puppy-friendly fresh dog food. Ollie; Just Food for Dogs; The Farmer's Dog/Business Insider
Fresh food options are a relatively recent addition to the pet food market, and they provide pet parents with gently cooked recipe alternatives to processed food. You can order them through convenient subscription plans or as needed. Our fresh food recommendations for puppies meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, and brands ship them right to your doorstep.
Because the food is delivered fresh, it tends to have a heftier price tag. It's also preservative-free, so you'll need to read the storage and serving instructions carefully.
When your puppy eats a high-quality diet, Luisana says you'll notice healthy skin, fur, and nails, normal bowel movements without vomiting or diarrhea, an ideal body condition score, and healthy muscle mass. The best puppy foods below include fresh ingredients such as USDA pork, chicken thighs, and whole rice.
Read our full reviews of The Farmer's Dog, Just Food for Dogs, and Ollie for more details.
The Farmer's Dog Pork RecipePork and pork liver make up proteins in this fresh food option. Sweet potato, potato, green beans, and cauliflower are carbohydrate sources. Beneficial nutrients in this food include omega fatty acids from salmon oil. The food contains 39% protein, 32% fat, 2% fiber, and 311 kcal per 1/2 pound or 39 calories per ounce.
Just Food For Dogs Chicken and White Rice RecipeChicken thighs, chicken liver, and chicken gizzards are the proteins in this feed-trial-tested food. Long-grain rice, spinach, carrots, and apples are carbohydrate sources. Beneficial nutrients in this food include omega fatty acids from fish oil. The food contains 34% protein, 12.2% fat, 0.6% fiber, and 43 kcal per ounce.
Ollie Turkey Dish With BlueberriesTurkey and turkey liver make up the protein in this fresh food. Standout carbohydrates include lentils, carrots, and oats. Beneficial additions to this food include blueberries for antioxidants, pumpkin for fiber, and kale for beta-carotene. The food contains 43% protein, 25% fat, 2% fiber, and 1,390 kcal ME/kg or 39 kcal per ounce.
What to look for in dog food for puppies
Our experts say the following criteria are important to consider when shopping for the best puppy food:
AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for growth: AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that recommends nutritional profiles based on an animal's life stage. While they don't approve pet foods, selecting a puppy food formulated for growth or all life stages means the food is completed and balanced to meet your puppy's nutritional needs.
Guaranteed analysis: Our experts recommend examining the amount of nutrients, such as protein, fat, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, in a puppy food. You'll find these values in the guaranteed analysis on the can or bag of food, or the manufacturer can provide the guaranteed analysis. Welborn says to discuss the guaranteed analysis of puppy food with your veterinarian who can ensure your puppy is eating a minimum of 22.5% protein and 8.5% fat, along with other essential vitamins and minerals that support their growth.
Ingredient list: This shows all the ingredients used in the recipe, arranged in order of weight. If an ingredient appears at the top of the list, it makes up a significant portion of the food's overall weight. Our experts say puppy foods have no specific ingredients to avoid, including healthy protein sources such as byproducts and byproduct meals. However, our experts recommended against feeding puppies (or any dogs) grain-free diets due to their potential connection to DCM.
Healthy extras: The best puppy foods have extra ingredients for healthy development, skin, and joints. For example, Welborn says food may include antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and l-lysine and selenium to support the immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, help with the development of the brain and nervous system in young animals and are essential in dog food for puppies. You'll find most of these beneficial nutrients listed in the guaranteed analysis.
Calorie content: Pet foods typically provide feeding charts as a starting point to determine the appropriate amount to feed your pet. However, Welborn says your veterinarian is the best resource for determining how many calories your puppy should eat daily. Puppies need high-calorie food to fuel their rapid growth. As your puppy nears adulthood, Luisana says it's crucial to discuss your dog's nutritional plan with your veterinarian. The most common reason to consider a switch to adult food — once your puppy has reached muscular maturity — is to avoid obesity that can be associated with high-calorie puppy foods, she says.
Breed-size formulation: According to our experts, if you have a large breed puppy, buying puppy food specifically formulated for them is crucial. This is because large breed puppies require specific nutrient ratios and calories to prevent them from growing too quickly, which can cause lifelong orthopedic issues. "Unless a diet specifically says it is labeled or tested for 'growth of large breed puppies,' it should be assumed it is not appropriate for this subset," Luisana says.
Feeding-trial tested versus formulated foods: If a food's label says it has gone through feeding trials, it has been deemed safe and palatable by feeding it to a group of animals. On the other hand, foods labeled as formulated were not fed to animals during nutritional testing.
Welborn points out that feeding trial testing is expensive, and not all companies can afford to conduct the tests on all or some of their pet foods. "There are many excellent foods in the market that are listed as a formulated diet," she says. "These foods have been available for a long time and have been shown to provide excellent nutrition."
Expert formulations: Churchill says she only recommends products from manufacturers that fulfill WSAVA guidelines. Among other quality-control standards, the brand employs a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist and perhaps a PhD-level animal nutritionist. The best puppy food picks in this guide have been formulated under the guidance of an animal nutrition expert.
Next-level ingredients. Purchasing puppy foods marketed as human-grade, organic, sustainably caught, or cage-free might mean paying more per meal. Although these ingredients typically cost more and may not offer extra nutrition to your puppy, choosi
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