Dog Nutrition - Dog Food Comparison
80Dog Food Reviews - Dog Food Ratings
There are two types of reviews
- Shopping List - 10 Point review used for simple understanding of pet food ingredients.
- Pet Food Danger Gauge - 30 point review used for more detailed review of the "fine print" of pet food ingredients.
Dog Food reviews are based on if Gluten, Corn, Soy, Wheat, Animal Digest are present in your pet's dog food. Extra points are awarded for the good stuff in the dog food. Points are deducted if by-products and other junk are used to produce these dog foods. Points are also deducted from the Dog Food Rating if the Pet Food Company has had Dog Food Recalls.
Ask Susan Peters Other Sites of Interest:
See all the reviews for cat food, cat treats, dog food, and dog treats.
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K9 Advantix Flea Control for Dogs Over 55 Pounds, 6 Pack
Price: $59.85
List Price: $85.49 |
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K9 Advantix Flea Control for Dogs 21-55 Pounds, 6 Pack
Price: $58.25
List Price: $78.29 |
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K9 Advantix Flea Control for Dogs 11-20 Pounds, 6 Pack
Price: $54.99
List Price: $78.49 |
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K9 Advantix Flea Control for Dogs 55 Pounds and Over, 4 Pack
Price: $40.50
List Price: $62.49 |
Dog Food Review
How did your brand of Dog Food do in the Dog Food Review?
Dog Food Review pages are now broken down by the letters. If, for example, you are looking for "Purina" brand dog food Dog Food Review you must access the Dog Food Review page titled "Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison "P" Listings.
Here are the links to the pages for each Dog Food Review:
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison A Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison B Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison C Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison D Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison E Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison F Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison G Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison H Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison I Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison J Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison K Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison L Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison M Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison N Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison O Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison P Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison Q Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison R Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison S Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison T Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison U Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison V Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison W Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison X Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison Y Listings
- Dog Food Review - Dog Food Comparison Z Listings
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Dogswell Happy Heart Chicken Breast, Flax Seed & Taurine, 3-Count 16-Ounce Bags
Price: $28.00
List Price: $53.97 |
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Petmate Deluxe Fresh Flow Pet Fountain Medium, White
Price: $24.99
List Price: $39.99 |
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Drinkwell Pet Fountain
Price: $37.89
List Price: $49.99 |
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Grizzly Salmon Oil All-Natural Dog Food Supplement in Pump-Bottle Dispenser, 32 Ounces
Price: $24.50
List Price: $32.99 |
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see comment under beniful
Can you add Natural Balance and Little Cesar's to your list please?
Thank you so much for doing this.
Yes, I was curious to see Natural Balance and Blue Buffalo
Your site is wonderful. I'd like to see Royal Canin dog food on your list - my interest is the Yorkshire Terrier specific food. Thanks!!
My dog was diagnosed with acute renal failure less than 2 weeks ago, after being switched to Nutro Weight Management canned food about 3 months ago. While the batch he was currently eating was not on the recall list, we have no way of knowing if he previously ate some. However, since he had been eating his currently batch less than 2 weeks before showing symptoms, I am suspcious of it. If you are feeding canned Nutro, I would not continue even if it's not on the recall list. My dog has suffered horribly, and we have already spent about $2000, and still don't know his long term chances.
How does Blue buffalo compare to Purina?? The "Guaranteed Analysis" of protein, fiber and the like appear very similar, but the are Blue Buffalo's ingredients that much better?
Read up on Solid Gold and Innova. I would swear by them and even eat them myself if I had to. You might even be able to contact the owners of Solid Gold to get the exact ingredients, their source, and every detail about their process. You would be lucky if they made people food so good.
"How does Blue buffalo compare to Purina?? The "Guaranteed Analysis" of protein, fiber and the like appear very similar, but the are Blue Buffalo's ingredients that much better?"
Number 1 look at the ingredients in Blue Buffalo, huge difference. There's no soy or wheat 2 common allergies, no corn; corn is converted to sugar and hard to digest. They use whole grains, all their ingredients only come from human suppliers and are human grade. There's no by-products, unnamed animal fats unlike Purina and most of your other grocery store brands. bluebuff.com
"How does Blue buffalo compare to Purina?? The "Guaranteed Analysis" of protein, fiber and the like appear very similar, but the are Blue Buffalo's ingredients that much better?"
Number 1 look at the ingredients in Blue Buffalo, huge difference. There's no soy or wheat 2 common allergies, no corn; corn is converted to sugar and hard to digest. They use whole grains, all their ingredients only come from human suppliers and are human grade. There's no by-products, unnamed animal fats unlike Purina and most of your other grocery store brands. bluebuff.com
"If you are feeding canned Nutro, I would not continue even if it's not on the recall list."
Nutro is part of the recall, all the Nutro Ultra canned food was recalled along with all their pouches and most of the canned in their natural choice line. Double check the dates on the cans, save them, get the food tested, and take your pet to vet if you think they've been affected
HI,I AM WORRIED MY DOGS WHOM EAT PURINA DRY FOOD MIXED WITH PEDIGREE CANNED MAY BE SICK ALSO.ANYONE ELSE?BARBARA
I want every body to remember my dog wilma jean who passed away yesterday from the dog food recall
WHERE DO YOU FIND THE NUMBERS INVOLVED AND WHICH
NUMBERS ARE YOU REFERRING TO 1.5/11 9.5/11 4/6 ETC.?
Erica sorry to hear about Wilma Jean...
It breaks my heart to read about all the losses of dogs and cats..My heart goes out to all of you pet parents out there. Words can't convey the sadness I feel because the carelessness of the food industry. Because of them we lost so many wonderful animals(angels) Please lets regulate and test the pet food.
I am working to make these dog food reviews all a ten point system. Be patient with me for this is a work in progress.
Thanks,
Susan Peters
Thank you for all you are doing. I am thinking of changing my dogs to Nutro Natural Choice DRY food. (I only feed them dry). Do you have any information on these products? I chose the Natural Choice Lite and the Chicken & Rice with Oatmeal for sensitive stomachs. Thanks you again!
http://hubpages.com/hub/Nutro_Natural_Choice_Lite_
http://hubpages.com/hub/Nutro_Natural_Choice_Chick
or you can click on the dog food brand and it will take you to the dog food review for that brand
Help!! Im at my wits end.. I just started using Blue Buffalo pet food for my dogs and cats bout 15 days ago now I find out that Blue Buffalo is recalling their product because they use the same company as Natural Balance. It has the rice protein concentrate in it. I also heard that cats will starve if they don't like the food. Should I go back to Fancy Feast? Im scared to try any other organic/holistic food because it could be contaminated too! What should I do?
I hate to advise. Read the labels. No corn, wheat, soy, or rice protein concentrate. I don't like to feed my pets manure, either. (Animal Digest)
Here's a site worth visiting http://www.squidoo.com/dogfoodsecretsreview.
All about the danger's of commercial dog food, tips on how to read those labels and useful homemade dog food recipes.
I heard that Canidae has the same ingredients as Kirkland Brand. I use the puppy food. Do you have a review on that one?
I'm having trouble coming up with the Kirkland Brand ingredients. I don't suppose you have a link to a site with the ingredients, do you?
Canidae puppy review, coming right up. You can check on the "All Stages" review. Seems they have covered the Puppy Formula with just one product. Oh, Dry or Canned?
Susan Peters
For Pattie, I wish I saw your comment earlier. Please read the horror stories associated with nutro food products on Shane4242, PetFood Recall Nutro Dry Dog Food. I just read where they are still denying that their products are tainted. I believe that they are, those stories will tell a lot and there a lot of them. I would have to agree with checking into Innova, Canadai, and I keep reading on Flint River too, sounds like you should do your own research. Good luck but don't feed Nutro products. I wouldn't trust Blue Buffalo, that is considered a commercial grade food if I am not mistaken. Susan did you hear anything else on Nutro lately? PS, Susan I like your sites :)
Beth,
Nothing new from Nutro since May 2nd. I've posted their latest recall (nothing new). Thanks for the "cudos", Beth. Glad I can help.
Susan Peters
I've been told Kirkland is affiliated with Diamond.
Willie,
Yes, Kirkland is affiliated with Diamond.
Susan
Having difficulty finding a good food for 7 mo old Pembroke Corgi male. He's a bit finicky, yet is healthy and just about full grown. I don't want him to gain weight. have been through 3 dry dog foods, and he starts out eating them and then doesn't want them - Nutro Natural chick and rice puppy, Beneful (know that's not a good one), and now Avoderm Puppy. I'm thinking about Origen puppy or a non grain. But, have heard too much protien isn't good for a puppy. Anyone have a recommendation?? Thanks
Carolyn,
As long as corn isn't present in your food it is doubtful your dog will get fat. A good diet with healthy ingredients should keep your Corgi at the ideal weight. The protein you were warned against is protein derived from grains.
Susan
Hello Everyone,
I will be signing up for the class action lawsuit Susan has joined. I haven't posted or been back on this site because like a lot of others, I have been devastated over the loss of my cat while she was on Nutro Max...months before the recall, I see others have lost pets with similar symptoms while on Nutro....MONTHS before the recall. The vet couldn't figure out what was wrong with her...why she kept vomiting and I spent a lot of money for tests including a Barium Study.
My dog got sick on Nutro Max Glucosamine Large Dog Food. Vomiting, Thirsty, Lethargic. I can't bring myself to EVER trust this company!
I tried Blue Buffalo which sounds incredibly nutritious & healthy, first ingredient being deboned chicken however my large 100 pound Komondor kept getting diarrhea and eventually refused to eat this stuff. I didn't wean her into this food "as their packaging recommends" because I was fearful of giving her anything else. After talking to the company I tried to slowly mix Purina Dry Food with Blue Buffalo because the Blue Buffalo was too rich or something and a pet has to be slowly introduced to this stuff but my dog kept getting diarrhea and not wanting to eat it. She is no longer on this Blue Buffalo dry dog food. I DO NOT like giving her a product like Purina but she's eating it and isn't getting sick. I am next going to try Wellness...if Susan likes it, it's got to be good...hopefully :-)
My cats are doing very well and have had NO issues with eating the very expensive Blue Buffalo dry cat food. Actually, it's not that expensive for FOOD. It's just more expensive than low grade pet food. I would rather pay more money for REAL pet food than give my pets JUNK pet food.
I feel so sorry for people who lost their pets. I cry when I read about the emotional pain you dear folks have had to suffer due to contaminated pet food. It's taken me months before I could exert energy to come back here. It's depressing and overwhelming especially after the loss and illness of pets. I am going to go through old petfood receipts and veterinarian bills and submit this when I join the class action lawsuit. Money can't replace my pet but if WE REMAIN SILENT then pet food manufacturing companies will think it's OKAY. I don't want this kind of "COVERED UP" nightmare to happen to any more pets or their owners which is why I am going to join the class action lawsuit...hopefull it will make a difference.
Thankyou Susan, for all the hard work you've been doing on and off this site! Can you tell me how long of a time period one has to join the lawsuit you have entered in?
Sincerely,
Eva Ordo
Eva,
Wow, what a powerful message you delivered! You still have time to join the class action, don't let too much time pass and miss out on a good chance to make changes in the pet food companies. I'm glad to have you back to this site and I am very happy I have been able to help you and others, this is an awful situation with the pet food companies killing our pets.
Wellness Dog Food looks like a healthy choice to me.
Susan
Eva,
Wow, what a powerful message you delivered! You still have time to join the class action, don't let too much time pass and miss out on a good chance to make changes in the pet food companies. I'm glad to have you back to this site and I am very happy I have been able to help you and others, this is an awful situation with the pet food companies killing our pets.
Wellness Dog Food looks like a healthy choice to me.
Susan
I have a two year old English Pringer Spaniel. He has been very healthy so far but I have noticed for awhile that he has been licking at his feet- maybe an allergy? He has been on Purina One all of his life and I am thinking about switching him to Blue Buffalo. I am not impressed with the bi products and wheat in Purina One, maybe that is causing the licking. I am afraid of the recall on the BLue dog food but from my understanding it has only been on canned foods. Can anyone tell me what they are thinking about this Blue dog food. I have never heard about it until my trip to Petsmart yesterday. Thanks so much ~Nikki and I know my dog Chase thanks you too:)
Nikki,
I can not say I trust any company with recalls so I can't tell you I would feed Blue. The paw licking is due to the grains in the pet food. Pull the grains and the paws should heal. The paws and near the tail on the back seem to be the first places the toxic reaction to grains take place.
Susan
Found this site looking for info on the "Gold" products. Our pup's breeder recommended Royal Canin - so I'd really like to see any reviews on that food type as well!
Thanks!
Nikki,
Blue Buffalo had one recall on their kitten food which had rice in it. I called the company and was surprised that one of the owners was answering the phone!!! He was very helpful and explained that they only use the best ingredients. The lamb comes from New Zealand I think but that's where the finest lamb product comes from. He explained that the company from whom they were getting the rice from was going to get lawsuits against them because they were falsifying the certifications of where the rice was coming from. This is a small family owned business that takes a great deal of pride in what they put in their high quality food. They were provided certification stating that the rice came from somewhere in the United States but the manufacturing company falsified the certification. That is what he told me. I was having problems with my dog having diarrhea on this wonderful product and had to stop. The two cats had absolutely no problem. I wish I could have kept my dog on Blue Buffalo because the ingredients and care in making this dog food is superior when compared to most others.
My pets will NEVER, NEVER EVER, EVER eat any product by Purina and I myself am never going to buy a Nestle human food product. I just got off the phone with customer service and am pissed. The very unhelpful woman really skirted the issue of whether or not they were using rice or any product from China in their dog food. The woman would not give a straight answer and after persistence I got the following response "We cannot tell you where we outsource our products from because that is proprietary information" I mean really! How deceitful and disgraceful that they will not tell a customer if their ingredients are coming from China. It's obvious to me they are fearful to go on record to tell the public if they are using food from China or not for fear that they will loose money! Nestle and Del Monte were involved in food recalls. I want nothing to do with them.
The head of the Chinese FDA was executed this past month for accepting bribes. We lost pets but thousands of wonderful, dear Chinese people died in China because of bad food. China has a major problem with infestation of rats or mice in their produce fields. I don't want any food from China till this gets cleared up. This is hard to do because a report showed that over 80% of the products in our home is from China! If I get sick I can tell my doctor the symptoms. If my pets get sick they can't so I'm just going to avoid pet foods that import their ingredients from China or wont tell me where it comes from because it's proprietary information.
Shame on Purina!
Eva
Eva,
Great information! I am so glad you shared your findings with us.
Susan
Has anyone had experience with their dog developing an allergy (skin) to Nature's Recipe dog food? I switched my dog to their dry food during the pet food recalls and now I've had to take her to the vet for skin problems. She has licked the fur right off her front two paws, which the vet said is due to allergy. Any info would be appreciated. I just don't know what's safe to feed her now. : (
We have had a 9lb. Dachshund, age 4 years for about two months, She was a show dog and is now a retired breeding dog. Very laid back. -- We give her a supplement of Hill's Science Diet, Adult, small bites, 1-6. I don't see that one on your list I have from May of this year. Her main diet is Cesar Canine Cuisine, Porterhouse Steak Flavor which she loves. She gets only about 1/2 cup of the Science Diet, which she eats as she wants. Does this appear alright for her? She has been very picky, but was fed the Cesar by the breeder and seems to be alright with that. We appreciate yur concern with people's pets.
Su07,
Dogs and cats lick their paws when grains are present in the foods they eat. The sores caused by the grains, which are toxic to our small animals, will eventually lead to greater problems than paw licking and sores. Check the diet and get your pet off of corn!
Susan
Don,
Both of the products you mentioned have been sited in a Class Action lawsuit due to pet deaths and illness. Of course, you know, Science Diet has been under recall. No, I would not feed either of these to a pet I care about.
Susan
Has anyone heard of this food?Specific?Any comments or thoughts on it?
("SPECIFIC™ Puppy Medium Breed Increased energy density to support the puppy's growthBalanced nutrient content adjusted to the high energy densityHigh digestibility due to high quality proteins reduces the puppy's stoolsHealthy skin and coat due to omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids SPECIFIC™ Puppy Medium Breed is developed especially for puppies of medium size breeds and can be fed from 10 weeks of age until the puppy has reached 80%-100%of its ideal weight as an adult dog. From that point on it can be gradually introduced to SPECIFIC™ Adult Medium Breed.SPECIFIC™ Puppy Medium Breed from VetXX is the optimal diet for your medium breed puppy. Ingredients:Cereals • Vegetable protein extract • Oils and fats • Fish and fish derivatives • Hydrolysed pork protein • Minerals • Milk and milk derivatives • Sugar • Egg and egg derivatives • Plantago psyllium husk")
Eve,
I have not heard of this Vet Formula until you told me about it. I went to the company web site to check it out. Very scant information about the ingredients. The first ingredient the company lists is "cereal". We don't know of what kind, is this a kind way of saying 'corn'? Cereal and milk are dangerous for our furry friends. This is a farce and not worth investing in let alone feeding to a pet you care about.
Susan
Thank you!
Dear Susan,
SPECIFIC weight reduction from VETTxx is only available through veterinary practices and quite expensive. So our veterinarians are selling us food you should not feed to a pet you care about?
Theo,
Yes, vets are selling bad products. Have you seen the recall list on Science Diet Prescription or the reviews for this and several other vet pet food products?
Susan
Hi Susan,
Would you please rate Natural Life Pet Products Dog Food for me? Our dog has done quit well on the food but I would like your opinion/analysis.
Thanks,
Tammy
I have two dogs on Timberwolf organics Lamb and barley formula and both are doing well but would like to hear reviews. They have been on it for about four months. Another of the dogs in on Blue Chicken formula. Still concerned for my dogs safety and my own with all of the recalls.
I read the review for Nutro Max Puppy Chicken Lamb and Rice and was curious about the Nutro Max Puppy Formula Dry food. This site has been very helpful and I will definitely not be feeding Puppy Chow and more. Keep up the good work.
Daniel,
Thank
Daniel,
Thank you,
Susan
Cindy and Tammy,
I haven't forgotten your request. I've been away from my computer for a bit but hope to get your reviews for you soon.
Thanks,
Susan
This resource actually assisted greatly in helping me to choose a healthy dog food for our Miniature Pinscher. Susan, thanks for all your time in researching this out and making the list. It really is a good one and I am saving it as a favorite...
Very appreciated!
Cinnamon,
If there is a product you would like to see reviewed let me know. Glad I can be of help.
Susan
Thanks, Susan...
Actually, I have made a decision and chose the "Solid Gold: Just a Wee Bit" brand for my dog and have started a hub to record the changes I have noticed in my dog with this food. Paying a little extra for actual food, as Eva Ordo stated instead of purchasing junk food is very worth it and could maybe save a trip to the vet in the future, too!
Thanks again...
Cinnamon,
Glad to have you join us here at Hubpages!
Susan
Would you rate Pet Promise brand dog food?
I would be interested in your findings.
Thank You.
Craig,
Watch for a review coming soon!
Susan
This blog is awesome! What a great recourse. We just switched to Timberwolf and think we are seeing improvement in our dogs energy level. We also invested in an <a href="http://www.perfectpetfeeder.com/">automati dog feeder</a> that has proven terrific. It has helped get some weight off our dog and he's much happier since we're not always home at dinner time.
Sam,
Thanks for the "thumbs-up" ! I believe you will see improvement in your dog's weight by getting him off of corn.
Good luck to you and thanks for the link,
Susan
I am so comfused! I just adopted a 5 month old puppy last week and cannot figure out what to feed her. I want a high quality food, but I do need to give financial consideration to what I choose. Right now she is eating Beneful, which I now know is awful. I also have three cats who eat Blue Buffalo Spa Select, and I wonder if I need to re-think that, too. I don't know much about the pet food recall, because the cat food wasn't part of the recall. Please help me decide what to do. Thanks,
Dottie's Mom(a.k.a. Susan)
Susan,
I'm glad you asked. First, look over the dog food review and cat food review pages. You want to look for as near to a 10/10 score. I have rated a number of pet foods based on the ingredients listed by the pet food producers. Not all flavors of pet food in a brand will score the same. If you look at the "Salmon" flavor it might score a 10 while "chicken" might only score a 7. These are just examples...you will have to look at each pet food.
It has been my experience that the cost of the pet food has not much at all to do with the quality of the pet food. Take for example Science Diet (a leader in the pet food recall), a very expensive pet food made from very poor quality ingredients.
The pet food recall was not a forced recall. This means that the companies, vets, distributers, etc. of the foods didn't have to pull the products from the shelves. So, many pet food which should have been pulled for killing pets never left the shelves other than when the consumer purchased them to feed their dear pets.
Good luck and God bless!
Susan
Thanks Susan. I've spent quite a bit of time following your links. My cats are on Blue Spa Select and doing well. One was regurgitaing before and the other two had urinary problems. Now all three are doing well. I wish you had reviewed Blue dog food. I think I'm going to try it with my puppy,being very careful to make a slow, gradual change.
Susan
Susan,
I'm glad I have been of help. I thought I had written Blue Spa reviews for the Dogs, too....but after looking through my reviews I see I HAVE NOT! Watch for Blue Spa Dog reviews begining in the morning.
Susan
Thanks so much for this website -- can you please review Simply Natural (lamb/rice and/or duck/potato) dry dog food as well as Evanger's canned dog food?
Lisa,
I'm glad you are enjoying my writings. I'll get those reviews for you right away.
Susan
Lisa,
I'm having trouble finding the Simply Natural products. Who produces those?
Susan
What a wonderful website. Thanks for all your work. I learned a lot about what dog foods not to buy.
George,
I'm glad I can be of help to you. Buying pet foods is pretty tricky stuff these days.
Good luck and God Bless,
Susan
hey susan, i just bought my boxer puppies 8 weeks old and i was feeding them beneful puupy because the breeder was feeding that but after i saw all this i want to change what do u think is better blue life protection formula large breed puppy dog food or royal canin maxi large breed puppy formula
Manny,
I will try to get those reviews for you this week. Which ever you choose be sure there is not any corn, wheat, or soy listed in the ingredients.
Susan
thanks i appreciate it
Hi Susan, I am so happy to find your website, THANK YOU! I would love to see reviews for COSTCO'S new Kirkland Signature Super Premium dry dog food (two flavors). The list of ingredients seem fine but who knows. By the way, my ex-boss's wife has the same name, you don't happen to live in Parlos Verdes, do you!?
Sheree,
I'm glad you found this site, too. I have found such wonderful articles by other hubbers which I have found to be very useful. I will get to work on your reviews right away.
I'm excited about your boss's wife but "taint me". I'm an Okie. Could you say "Howdy" for me?
Susan
Sheree,
I've been trying to come put with a product listing showing the Kirkland product you have requsted a review on. All I can find are recalls for Kirkland. Even their website doesn't show ingredient listings.
I'm going to try to make a trip to my local pet store to see if I can find any further information on the products you have questioned. I know at least two of the feed stores carry Diamond brand pet foods. Maybe I'll have good luck there.
Thanks for your understanding,
Susan
Howdy Susan!
Thanks for your effort. At my local COSTCO they have two Kirkland Signature dog food. One being Premium and one being Super premium. I was told that they get their dog food from Diamond Feed but not sure if both come from it. If you need, I can email you the label or if necessary, send you a small bag of the food for analysis. Let me know.
Sheree
Sheree,
I would be very glad to receive the label via email. I have several requests for reviews but I can't find any data on the products.
asksusanpeters@hotmail.com
Susan
Sheree,
I would be very glad to receive the label via email. I have several requests for reviews but I can't find any data on the products.
asksusanpeters@hotmail.com
Susan
Sure! I will scan it and email to you. By the way, I don't seem to find Authority Harvest Baked on your list. Have you done a review for it? It's reasonably priced and seem to have good ingredient. I am considering it as an alternative if the Kirkland Signature Super Premium doesn't turn out to be good. Thanks.
Sheree,
I have not done any reviews of Authorty products as of yet. Ptesmart doesn't include a complete listing of ingredients on their website. Should you happen to purchase this product please send a copy of the label to me. I'll be near a Petsmart over Christmas and I'll see what I can find there.
Susan
Hi Susan-
We used to feed our dogs Hills Science Diet Large breed pet food, after reviewing the dog food rating, found out that they are not great food at all. We have our 16 weeks pup on Innova Large breed puppy now. http://www.innovapet.com/products/default.asp?id=1 I am thinking to have him try Solid Gold Wolf Club (Larger breed puppy) http://www.solidgoldhealth.com/products/showproduc
Which one is a better food?
Thanks so much!!!
Gigi,
I took a few days off for the Christmas holiday. Sorry so slow getting back to you in response to your question. I'm working on reivews for these two foods and will have them posted for you shortly.
Thanks,
Susan
Gigi,
The results are in.... looks like Solid Gold is the better food.
Susan
Hi Susan, I am so happy to find your website, THANK YOU! I would love to see what you think about NutriSource® Large Breed Puppy Chicken and Rice Formula here is a link to the website http://www.nutrisourcedogfood.com/viewimage.php?id i went to a all natural carrier food pet store anf they told me "it is the new puppy food that is going to take over" that it is equivalent to eagle pack dog food what doyou think about the food please let me know before i go out and buy it thank you :-)
Manuel,
Here is the review you requested. I'm glad you have found this website, too. I'm glad I can be of help to you and your pets.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Premium-Dog-Food-Nutri-Sou
Susan
Manuel,
Here is the review you requested. I'm glad you have found this website, too. I'm glad I can be of help to you and your pets.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Premium-Dog-Food-Nutri-Sou
Susan
It's not necessary to eat readymade food to your dog. You can prepare your dog's food at home also.
Ananya,
I make my dog and cat food at home. I have found making the food takes just a minute and my pets really like what I make for them. I'm living worry free knowing what I fix for my babies is safe for them to eat. I know the meat I use in my home made pet food isn't recycled pets (dogs and cats) and I didn't put a scoop of manure (animal digest) in for flavor. No nasty old rendered grease goes in my food, I use a dash of olive oil.
Susan
Hi Susan,
I see that you deducted points from Kirkland Super Premium for having ingredients such as potato, beet pulp, brewers dried yeast, natural flavors, and animal fat (chicken fat in this case). Life's Abundance also has all these ingredients yet no points were taken. Life's Abundance even got an extra point for chicken meal while Kirdland Signature Super Premium received no point for having chicken as #1 and chicken meal as #2 ingredient. I just don't think you are being fair...
Susan,
Thank you for the great information, we have just adopted another shelter dog, and have also switched to only homemade food. We make it with ground Turkey, carrots & rice with a vitamin supplement. No poop issues, no allergies, good coat & teeth, and we can freeze bags of it for future use.
All the worries were overwhelming, and like you said, knowing the ingredients is precious relief.
Alana
Alana,
I, too am making home cooked meals for my pets. We don't have bloating, ear infections, fever, bad breath, fleas, etc.
Thanks for writing!
Susan
wow... Im getting a puppy in two weeks, and wanted to find her the best food... turns out to be more of a headache than I thought it would be. I have been doing a lot of research online, looking at many sites review and whatnot, and turns out, even foods that are rated the highest still have something negative said about them. I guess from this point its kinda trail and error with the "good foods" till I find the one that works best for her? I ended up getting blue buffalo. The whole recall thing is the only thing that bothers me... But even I eat stuff that has, in the past, had a recall... spinach recall about a year, and you still cant keep me away from raw spinach... and I still feel safe eating it, so is it wrong to assume that even if a company had a recall, it can still be considered safe? ... help =(
Katie,
Good point. I, too, have gone back and tried recalled products. Surely the company figured out what went wrong in the first place, right?
What ever pet food you settle on make sure it does not include corn, wheat, or soy. These three grains will kill your puppy not to mention all the other side effects from feeding such a poor diet.
Best of luck!
Susan
We are having the most difficult time with our 3 yr old beagle(rescued a year ago). He hurt his back but is better now, 3 months of slow recovery took a toll on his weight. This year we've been all over the map with Evo, Orijen-great, but loose stools for over a month),Timberwolf, Taste of the Wild, Fromm, and mix in a bit of raw chicken from Nature's Variety. The issue is calories vs. fat content. I can't find low fat with low calories-it's one or the other. So which is best to keep a dog grain free and lose weight also? We are looking at losing 8 or 9 lbs for a dog that should be 30 lbs. so it's going to take a while, but I am going crazy looking for good food and give him something to eat and not just a tiny amount that won't satisfy him. We have an 11 mth old beagle also and want to keep her healthy but would love to just have one dog food-we can do different ones, if it's necessary. Thanks again for your site and your input.
Dear LL,
Let's start by looking at the types of dog food. When you are feeding a dog food with grains the dog will have to eat a full cup (example only) to receive the nutrition he requires. When you feed a grain-free dog food he should eat only 1/4 cup. Your dog will not have to eat all the trash to get the good stuff. Since the grain-free dog food should not have all the junk he is getting the real deal in only a couple of bites.
You may have trouble with loose stools for only a day or two until the body adjusts to the new diet. You should see your dog begin to lose weight to a normal, healthy weight once on a good diet. Add some pumpkin to the diet until he is used to the new diet. Limit his food. Give him only what is suggested and if he continues to hold his weight or gain weight reduce the feed until you begin to see changes. He should be eating only 1/4 the amount of dog food.
Watch the treats - make sure the treats are grain-free and only one or two daily. Better yet, give a bite of real meat from the table or veggies from the freezer. Don't worry about low fat just adjust the feeding amounts and all will be fine.
Loose stools for over a month is a sure indicator you are well over feeding your dogs.
Susan
Have not been to this site in awhile--I see it getting better all the time. S. Peters has the soul of an angel to stay calm answering the same questions over & over,Thanks. Couple of things. 1. I still see no concern over glucosamine & chrondrotin products,considering much of it comes from China & is outsourced to many Countries that pass it on w/o labeling it from China. China has lower standards for sea products then we do. 2. Killing the head of Food Safety in China is not necessarily good--Yeah--what did he know??
Does anyone know the basic difference between Acana & Origen products--is one better then the other? I adopted a mix Shep from Animal Control. Within 2 days he got an infection from his neuter operation as well as Kennel Cough & ran a 105.5 temp & had to rush him to Emergency. He is now worth about $350--& counting. I pray he will make it. I was VERY CONCERNED when I read about the CANINE FLU--something everyone should research, FOLKS THIS IS BIRD FLU!! My concern now is to get him off this Science Diet Puppy food--its junk. This is what he was used to & the pound gave me a bag. I became very ill the day after I got him home so had to feed him this because my flu was SERIOUS. Now w/only a few days of food left-is it ok to try to make a quick switch to Solid Gold Wolf Cub? I hate to keep feeding him the Sc. Diet. I really like the Origen Food--but not sure what is best for a mix Shep/Possibly Chow/Akita/Corgie or what. He looks like the front pic. of the Wolf Cub Dog on the package. I wish I did not have to rush my choice--& switch him twice--but today is the day I have to begin to switch him. He is 3 0r 4 mo. I am ok also w/Wilderness but dont know if they have a Pup Formula. Wilderness is made by Diamond I found out & they say the venison has no mad cow type issues. I cant say if the other meat or fish proteins come from as good a source as Orige. Please any help or suggestions is sooo appreciated. Thank You Susan for your wonderful energy & contribution to animal health & safety.
River,
You made some wonderful points about the imported products and the standards and testing or lack of testing. I would love to address the glucosamine but feel my energies are better spent at helping people choose a grain free product.
To answer your question about Acana - lots of fillers and contents I don't really feel comfortable with but are not really addressed in my reviews. Example - beet pulp, salt, fish oils (sounds like stuff that should be good) but it has been my experience these oils are used to encourage a pet to eat a product which would not normally be enjoyed. I notice there are a lot of ingredients that look like the end of a beer run from a brewery.
Your question about Orijen - chicken fat, russet potato, anchovy oils, and natural flavors are the only ingredients I don't really care for. Russet potato is filler like beet pulp but at least the potato is not just fiber. Natural flavors - we don't know the source of these flavors nor do we know what the flavor is supposed to be.
Both of these mini reviews were of the puppy formulas. It is my suggestion that you take the Science Diet and flush it down the toilet so there is no possible chance your new puppy gets a single bit of this killing product. Don't wait a single minute longer - GET RID OF THE SCIENCE DIET!!
When selecting a product for your new puppy you should not concern yourself with your dog's breed other than for the size he is and what he will become. Most, if not all, breeds do not require anything breed specific. Selling pet food to people for their type of pet is a gimmick devised to sell foods with different pet pictures (same ingredients just different feeding volumes) at a higher price.
I would choose the Orijen.
Thank you so much for your kind words about my efforts to help people to understand what is going on with their pets and their pet's foods. Some days, I have to admit, I wonder if it is all worth my effort. Just as I receive a crummy comment, I receive a great comment like the one you left for me - I'm glad my efforts are helpful and it is so nice of you to let me know you are pleased.
Susan
Could you review 365 Everyday Value Cat Food and Dog Food?
could you please review
Helath Extension foodLou,
I'll get to your reviews as quick as I can. I've had several requests lately and not enough time to get 'em all done. Please be patient!
Susan
What a terrific resource this is, for dog owners. You're doing an amazing job with all these reviews Susan!
Julie Ann,
Thank you for the kind words!
Susan
christine,
I'm sorry to be so slow to get back to you on your reviews for 365 Everyday Value pet foods by Whole Foods Market. I have not been able to find a site where the ingredients for these pet foods are listed. If you should know of a link or have a label from which you could let me know the ingredients I'll be more than happy to provide a review for you.
Thank you,
Susan
Susan, thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to help us become more informed on what our fur babies are eating. I literally take your list to the store when i am shoppping.
God Bless,
Michelle F from tulsa, ok
Michelle,
I'm so happy to report I have gotten caught up with some of my outside work so should be able to get a few more reviews processed this weekend. Thank you so much for bearing with me!
Susan
Lou,
Here are the reviews for Vets Choice products. http://hubpages.com/hub/Vets-Choice-Professional-P
Susan
Thanks so much, was worth the wait!
My dogs are getting old - pumping them full of supliments to try to keep them alive longer.
Vince,
Don't forget to make sure no corn, wheat, or soy are in their diets.
Susan
Hi Susan,
I am interested in making my own home made dog and cat foods. I am afriad I won't be able to put in the requirred vitamines and everything that is needed in a pet food. I saw a post where you said you made your own foods. Can you share some recipes for both dog and cat foods?
Thnaks,
Kim
Kim,
I have just the thing for you. I have begun writing and filming a new mini series I am calling "Natural Dog Food Recipe - Easy To Make!" This is a beginner recipe and can be used for either a cat or a dog.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Natural-Dog-Food-Recipe-Ea
Susan
Hi Susan,
Fantastic information - I think educating people about what is in pet foods is a very important job. The information on here is invaluable. I just want to point out a few things though - first in regards to the inclusion of garlic in the food being a negative. Yes, in a large quantity, garlic can certainly be toxic to dogs but it can be used safely in small amounts. There are many health benefits that are present in garlic that the dog can take advantage of safely when used in moderation. Secondly - you deduct a point for the presence of white rice but not brown rice, is this correct? The issue I have with this is that brown rice gives no added benefit to a dog and is actually harder for a dog to digest. While brown rice is definitely better for us people, it's not the best choice for a dog - white rice is not necessarily a bad ingredient - obviously if there is a lot in the food, that's not a good thing, but in small quantities it does provide a source of energy and fibre for the dog while being extremely gentle on a dog's digestive system and is very hypoallergenic. So I would say that white rice is a better ingredient than brown rice. The only other comment that I would like to make is that the way the food is processed is a HUGE part of the quality of the food. The typical extrusion process (the majority of pet foods go through this) cooks the food at upwards of 500 degrees F for a very short period of time. This in essence burns off all the nutrients that might have been present in the ingredients to begin with. What's the point of using really good ingredients if you're going to burn all the nutrients and have to add them back on later (spraying after extrusion to add nutrients and increase palatability). Big bonus points should be awarded to foods that use minimal heat in their processing. This also brings to light the term "meal" being used in commercial pet foods - while "chicken meal" is often touted as a very good source of protein in pet foods, one must remember exactly what a meal is - it is a highly processed ingredient - cooked at upwards of 600 degrees F to remove all moisture (and essentially all nutrients) leaving a highly concentrated protein source in a powder form. The ideal combination would be a dehydrated food using nothing but fresh ingredients certified for human consumption (please do not confuse with "human grade").
Anyway, that's my two-cents worth. Keep up the awesome work - it is a daunting task to try and combat the pet food giants who care more for the almighty dollar than the lives of our cherished pets.
Rachel,
You have pointed out some very interesting facts.
I deduct points for the garlic because, just as you have said, garlic is good in "moderation" although bad beyond that. How much garlic is in the recipe? How much are the pets going to eat of the pet food? Many people feed their pets beyond the serving suggestion - does this exceed the safe limit on garlic? How much garlic is used when served in "moderation" ? In my comments I always state "Garlic is known to be toxic to pets" or something close because I don't want to say "Garlic is toxic".
The brown vs. white rice issue - White rice is often associated with by-products of beer and wine making. I can't think of a single review I have written (maybe there was one) in which white rice was listed in the ingredient list that was not followed by other by-products of beer/wine making. Very dangerous to pets!
I agree with the Chicken or Beef "meal" but I have not deducted points for the use of the meal because meal (in my opinion) is not as questionable as other meat sources in the pet foods. I hate to see fresh chicken as the first ingredient followed by water (sometimes called broth, etc) as the second ingredient. When water is added to an already moist product the volume of meat is reduced to less than 10%. From the looks of the product a consumer would feel that feeding fresh meat would provide at least 25% meat but often does not.
I do not think I will be deducting points for the use of brown rice or chicken meal but I will add thoughts to the review reflecting the use of rice (any and all) and meal.
Thank you so much for your thoughts and insights. After you have read my thoughts on the issues presented please let me know your feelings. I enjoy your "two cents".
Susan
Susan,
I have made the recipe of homemade dog food for my 3 dogs and cats. My dogs think I have gotten even better at being a good dog parent and cannot wait to eat and they eat with enthusiasm now. Everything is going well with them now. However, my 12 cats think I've gone downhill as a cat parent and stick their noses up at me and walk away. Is there anything I can do to the recipe to make it more appealing to my cats?
Thanks,
Kim
Kim,
Cats are funny people, you know? Dry cat food is very addictive for our cats because the pet food companies put so much fats and junk in the mix our cats think we have lost our minds to have them eat healthy (sounds like my kids and McDonalds!).
You might like to start out with a simple broth from the boiled chicken with chunks of chicken in the broth. Get your kids used to eating well and they will come around.
My cat would beg food from the neighbor so my neighbor assumed I wasn't feeding her. Once I explained to my neighbor what was happening and to please not feed her so tried and bite and liked it. It did take some time, though.
You have to remember your cats are outside so they are getting fresh meats sources as well. Just keep the mix fresh.
Susan
Susan,
Actually, I keep all of my cats inside at all times. So, they aren't killing anything and eating it.
I feed canned grain free Wellness and dry Orijen. I saw you tell another person that as long as they aren't on corn they won't get fat. I have three out of the 12 who are pretty plump. I have three cat trees that are large and go all the way to the cieling. They have just about every toy made. So they get quite a bit of excerise. Do you know what's in the foods I am feeding them that might be making them fat?
Anyway, I've been mixing some of the homemade pet food in with the wellness grain free canned and I have two that will eat it that way but I am not sure they will eat if it I put even more homemade food into it. I have one kitten who is 4 months who will eat the homemade food by itself but the others are refusing it. I have even offered them the chicken chunks and a littler bit of broth and they turn it down.
I read somehwere that it is was dangerous to wet down dry foods....not sure where I read this at or even if it is true. I'm afraid to mix the homemade food with the dry Orijen because of this.
I have to be patient and work it in slow because (from experience) they will get liver problems really quick if they just refuse to eat and I allow it to happen. Do you know how many hours they can go without eating and not get liver problems and start turning yellow? I might get more strick with them if I know I have more time to fight their stuborness.
Kim
Kim,
I thought your cats were both inside and out. So sorry about the misunderstanding. Turns out that a lot of the food products I have been looking into as of late have been adding more carbs from other grains besides corn, wheat, and soy. Cats do not need carbs so that could explain the weight issues. I'm really not sure what the exact cause could be since the pet food recipes for many brands are ever changing.
I believe what you have read is correct but I think it is the kidneys which are affected rather than the liver.
Mixing in the home cooked recipe with the packaged product is a great idea and should work well over time. This is probably the best way to wean some of the older cats away from commercial pet foods. I don't don't know how long some of these stubborn fellas can go without eating before they give in. I still have trouble with the one cat but not the other. I have trouble only when the one has gone to the neighbor's buffet (that's what I joke about at home - who's house today for what goodies?)
Dry food should not have water added but I think as long as your homemade stuff is not soup you should be okay. The idea here is to keep the dry food still dry on the inside.
Oh, Kim... if it were Christmas I would say stuff 'em in a sock and hang 'em by the fireplace until they eat their dinner. You could tell them they are getting coal for Christmas .... Alas, it is summer. Hmmm Hang in there and don't give up!
Susan
Susan,
Thanks for all the advice. I hate that I keep asking you questions. But, I do have another one.
Today, I just added the fat free broth to the chicken and ground it up like canned food would be. I didn't add any fruits, brown rice or vege's. Not all but most liked this better. Will I kill them if this is what i start feeding them? When I try to add my next ingredient, for cats, does it need to be the brown rice or the vege's?
My cats really do need to have the appetite of my dogs. You just can't beleive how many "concoctions" I have been cooking and turning into cat food the last few weeks. My dogs love all the meals they get that the cats feel like I've messed up on though.
Kim
Kim,
You are not bother to me at all! Cats are not as interested in the other ingredients as dogs are. I do make a special kitty recipe for my more selective eaters where I make fix the meat and broth only. I see no harm in feeding this way as cats are meat eaters and don't require the added fruits and veggies. I've found that one of my cats like the recipe with cantalope.
I'm still working on getting the mini series and recipes going on to video.
Meat and broth is great for your cats.
Susan
Susan,
Thanks, I am getting a much better response from the chicken and broth only recipe for my cats. I have hopes that all will start eating it now but this recipe is off to a very good start with them as long as I grind it up like canned food. They are very picky and spoiled rotten cats.
Thanks,
Kim
Kim,
See if you can sneak in some raw chicken as well! I like 'em spoiled. LOL
Susan
Hi, Susan,
First of all, thank you for this wonderful site and all your hard work. I have been feeding my dogs Avoderm Senior (mixed with a little Nutro Senior turkey and rice canned), and our Giant Schnauzer (18mos.), Natural Balance Chicken. One of your reviews calls Avoderm a winner and gives it a 10/10 report, but I have been concerned about the toxicity of the avocados being used in it. I have talked to the company and they told me they only use California avocados and not the Guatemalan variety that has the 'persin' in them. They also have a place on their site that explains the safety of the parts of the avocados they use and how they process them. My only worry is somewhere on one of your hubs, you said that avocados are toxic to dogs and asked 'what was Breeder's Choice thinking?'. I'm so confused about this food and want to make sure it's safe for my dogs. Also, if you could review Dick VanPatten's Natural Balance Chicken I would so appreciate it. Thanks so much and I look forward to hearing your reviews.
Eyes,
Avocados are expensive. Why would an ingredient known to be toxic to cats and dogs be included in a pet food - an ingredient which is expensive? I think that this company is getting the avocados as a by-product from some other company. I don't know that for sure but why would the use it and have to defend it's use? Many pet food companies have stopped using avocados in their recipes.
They contain a toxic component called persin, which can damage heart, lung and other tissue in many animals. This fruit is very toxic to dogs, cats and most animals. All parts of the avocado and avocado tree are toxic to dogs. Signs of toxins may first appear as allergies.
I will post Dick VanPatten's natural Balance Chicken Pet Food Danger Gauge review for you. Please be patient with me as I have a number of review requests ahead of yours. I'll let you know when that review posts.
Susan
Thank you, Susan, I understand you're busy and I am more than happy to be patient and wait on your review. What you say makes sense to me as my mini-schnauzer has begun coughing a lot. I've had her checked by the vet for this and after three exams and Xrays, they have come to the conclusion it is allergies. Susan, I have read many of your reviews, but I would like to ask you what food you would use on your dogs that envelopes everything you think a dog food should be? I want that 10/10 rating if I can get it, but I don't want anything that could possibly be toxic to my dogs like the avocados in Avoderm. Thanks again for your time.
Lynn:)
Irsheyes,
I'm sorry to have taken so long to get this review posted for you. http://hubpages.com/hub/Natural-Balance-Chicken-Ca
and the Breeders Choice are http://hubpages.com/hub/Breeders-Choice-Dog-Food-H
Susan
Hi, Susan,
No worries, I know you're busy and I just appreciate the time you take to do all this. Susan, I am interested in the Natural Balance dry formulas. I don't feed the canned variety, but I do feed the Nutro Senior Turkey canned to my little guys along with the Avoderm senior. Whenever you get a chance, if you could do a review on the Natural Balance dry in the 'small bites' and also the one for highly active dogs, I'd appreciate it so very much. I've pretty much decided to go off the Avoderm dry. They're doing well on it, but I can't get past the fact that avocados are toxic and that over the long term, that it could be doing damage to my dogs. Susan, it seems like most of the foods have something in them that is not desirable. Is there a dry that you recommend? Thanks again and hope to hear from you soon.
Lynn :)
irsheyes,
I'm afraid I haven't found a good dry food. For some reason the pet food companies forgot that we want to feed our pets something good without a bunch of beer or wine by-products or animal by-products. Is making a healthy pet food such a difficult task? I have to wonder which is more important - the health of our pets or the profits for the pet food companies.
If there were a healthy pet food available I'll be the company profits would soar!
I'll get to your review request as quick as I can.
Thanks,
Susan
Thank you, Susan, I appreciate it very much.
Lynn :)
working
Kathy says:
17 months ago
This is an incredibly useful resource. Thank you!!!