berkley jensen salmon and sweet potato dog food
Berkley Jensen Dog Food Review (Dry)
Berkley Jensen Dog Food Review (Dry)
By Mike Sagman
Updated: March 20, 2024
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1Berkley Jensen Dog Food receives the Advisors second-highest tier rating of 4 stars.
The Berkley Jensen product line includes three dry dog foods, each claimed to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages.
The following is a list of recipes available at the time of this review.
Berkley Jensen Chicken and Brown Rice was selected to represent the other products in the line for this review.
Berkley Jensen All Natural Chicken and Brown Rice
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content
Chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, rice, oats, rice bran, chicken fat (preserved with natural mixed tocopherols and citric acid), herring meal, natural flavors, dried egg product, dried blueberries, dried spinach, potassium chloride, salt, fish oil (preserved with natural mixed tocopherols and citric acid), choline chloride, calcium carbonate, zinc sulfate, vitamin E supplement, ferrous sulfate, niacin supplement, copper sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, calcium pantothenate, vitamin A supplement, manganous oxide, pyridoxine hydrochloride, sodium selenite, riboflavin supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, biotin, vitamin B12 supplement, calcium iodate, folic acid, rosemary extract
Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 3.5%
Red denotes any controversial items
| Guaranteed Analysis | 25% | 14% | NA |
| Dry Matter Basis | 28% | 16% | 49% |
| Calorie Weighted Basis | 24% | 33% | 43% |
Ingredient Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken contains about 80% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.
After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.
The second ingredient is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
The third ingredient is brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that (once cooked) can be fairly easy to digest. However, aside from its natural energy content, rice is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The fourth ingredient is rice. Is this whole grain rice, brown rice or white rice? Since the word rice doesnt tell us much, its impossible to judge the quality of this item.
The fifth ingredient is chicken fat. Chicken fat is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.
Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.
The sixth ingredient includes herring meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate.
Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.2
After the natural flavor, we note the inclusion of dried egg product, a dehydrated form of shell-free eggs. Quality can vary significantly. Lower grade egg product can even come from commercial hatcheries from eggs that have failed to hatch.
In any case, eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value.
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this product.
With three notable exceptions
First, fish oil is naturally rich in the prized EPA and DHA type of omega-3 fatty acids. These two high quality fats boast the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans.
Depending on its level of freshness and purity, fish oil should be considered a commendable addition.
Next, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.
And lastly, the minerals listed here do not appear to be chelated. And that can make them more difficult to absorb. Non-chelated minerals are usually associated with lower quality dog foods.
Nutrient Analysis
Judging by its ingredients alone, Berkley Jensen Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.
But ingredient quality by itself cannot tell the whole story. We still need to estimate the products meat content before determining a final rating.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 28%, a fat level of 16% and estimated carbohydrates of about 49%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 30% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 46% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Near-average protein. Near-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
Free of any plant-based protein boosters, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a moderate amount of meat.
Bottom line?
Berkley Jensen is a plant-based dry dog food using a moderate amount of named meats and meat meals as its main sources of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4 stars.
Highly recommended.
Please note certain recipes are sometimes given a higher or lower rating based upon our estimate of their total meat content.
Berkley and Jensen Dog Food Recall History
The following list (if present) includes all dog food recalls since 2009 directly related to Berkley and Jensen. If there are no recalls listed in this section, we have not yet reported any events.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls sorted by date. Or view the same list sorted alphabetically by brand.
Compare This Dog Food
How does this brand compare with The Dog Food Advisor's most recommended brands?
A Final Word
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For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food, 30 lbs.
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food starts with real salmon. Its first ingredient provides the key proteins and amino acids that your dogs need to thrive. Then wholesome fruits and vegetables are added for vitamins and antioxidants, and natural sources of omega three fatty acids are included. Lastly, this recipe is fortified with a calibrated mix of vitamins and minerals.
Product Features:
(Model 07135)
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Turkey and Sweet Potato Recipe For Dogs, 30 lbs.
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Turkey and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food starts with real turkey. Its first ingredient provides the key proteins and amino acids that your dogs need to thrive. Then wholesome fruits and vegetables are added for vitamins and antioxidants, and natural sources of omega three fatty acids are included. Lastly, this recipe is fortified with a calibrated mix of vitamins and minerals.
Product Features:
(Model 07134)
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food, 30 lbs.
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food starts with real salmon. Its first ingredient provides the key proteins and amino acids that your dogs need to thrive. Then wholesome fruits and vegetables are added for vitamins and antioxidants, and natural sources of omega three fatty acids are included. Lastly, this recipe is fortified with a calibrated mix of vitamins and minerals.
Product Features:
(Model 07135)
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food , 30 lbs
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food , 30 lbs
Berkley Jensen Grain Free Salmon and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food starts with real salmon. Its first ingredient provides the key proteins and amino acids that your dogs need to thrive. Then wholesome fruits and vegetables are added for vitamins and antioxidants, and natural sources of omega three fatty acids are included. Lastly, this recipe is fortified with a calibrated mix of vitamins and minerals.Product Features:
- #1 ingredient is real salmon
- No corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals or fillers
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- For all life stages
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and shiny coat
- Enhanced with prebiotics and probiotics to help support digestion
- Crunchy kibble helps clean teeth and freshen breath
- Dry dog food
- Includes 30-lb. grain free salmon and sweet potato recipe for dogs
Kirkland Signature (Costco) Nature's Domain Salmon & Sweet Potato Formula For Dogs Review
While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that support your dog's immune system, brain function, and skin and coat health.
Salmon meal is a high-quality protein source that also provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, as well as overall wellness.
Sweet potato is a highly nutritious and easily digestible source of complex carbohydrates for your dog. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system and immune function.
Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals for dogs, and are also high in fiber which can help keep your dog's digestive system running smoothly.
Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.
Fish meal is a highly digestible protein source for dogs, providing essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients. It supports skin and coat health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
Canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of healthy fats that can help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. It's preserved with mixed tocopherols (forms of vitamin E) to maintain freshness.
Pea flour is a gluten-free source of carbohydrates and protein that offers an alternative to grains for dogs with sensitivities. It is also rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients, which can support your dog's skin, coat, and digestive health.
Dried Beet Pulp is a source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health and provides energy for dogs.
Natural flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appealing to your pet. This can help encourage your dog to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Salmon oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, immune system, and cognitive function.
While salt is a necessary component of a dog's diet, providing essential minerals such as sodium and chloride for proper cellular function, it should be provided in moderation to avoid health issues like hypertension or kidney damage.
Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.
DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that supports your dog's overall health by promoting proper protein synthesis, maintaining healthy skin and coat, and aiding in the detoxification process.
Dicalcium phosphate is a calcium and phosphorus supplement that helps to support the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth in dogs.
Choline Chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in brain and liver function, muscle movement, and supports healthy metabolic processes.
Taurine is an essential amino acid that supports heart health, vision, and development and function of skeletal muscle.
Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.
Raspberry is a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which help to support a strong immune system and overall health in dogs.
Tomato is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides your dog with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients support a strong immune system, promote heart health, and contribute to overall well-being.
Dried chicory root is a natural prebiotic fiber that can help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and support your dog's digestive health. It also contains inulin, which can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and support overall immune system function.
Yucca schidigera extract is a natural ingredient known for its ability to reduce unpleasant odors in your dog's waste. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support joint health and overall well-being.
The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.
The dried bacillus subtilis fermentation product is a beneficial probiotic that supports digestive health in dogs. It helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, promoting overall well-being and immune function.
Dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product is a probiotic that can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog's gut, supporting overall digestive health.
Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product is a beneficial probiotic ingredient used in dog food. It helps support a healthy digestive system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This probiotic also aids in nutrient absorption and can improve your dog's overall immune system function.
Dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog's gut, promoting digestive health.
Vitamin E supplement is an essential nutrient that helps support your dog's immune system, skin health, and overall wellness.
Iron proteinate is a chelated form of iron that is more easily absorbed by your dog's body, supporting their red blood cell production and overall health.
Zinc proteinate is a highly absorbable form of zinc. It helps support a healthy immune system, skin, and coat in dogs.
Copper Proteinate is a chelated form of copper that's easier for dogs to absorb, aiding in red blood cell formation and iron absorption.
Ferrous sulfate is an important source of iron for dogs, a mineral essential for red blood cell production, oxygen transportation, and overall vitality. Adequate iron intake supports your dog's immune system and energy levels.
Zinc sulfate is a source of the essential mineral zinc, which supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall growth and development.
Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones, joints, and metabolism in dogs. It also supports the production of collagen, which is vital for healthy skin, coat, and connective tissues.
Copper sulfate is an essential trace mineral that supports various bodily functions in dogs, including immune system health, skin and coat maintenance, and red blood cell production.
Potassium iodide is a chemical compound that can be used as a source of iodine in your dog's diet. Iodine is crucial for the proper functioning of your dog's thyroid gland.
Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 that helps support your dog's nervous system function, energy metabolism, and overall health.
Manganese Proteinate is a chelated form of manganese, a mineral that supports bone health, metabolism and enzymatic reactions.
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is an essential antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system and helps reduce inflammation.
Vitamin A Supplement is important for supporting vision, immune function, and skin health in dogs.
Biotin is a B-vitamin that's important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails in dogs.
Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for a dog's metabolism and energy production, and supports healthy skin and coat.
Calcium pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that helps support your dog's energy metabolism and nervous system function.
Sodium selenite is a form of selenium, a necessary trace mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health in dogs.
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a source of vitamin B6, which is essential for your dog's nervous system function, immune health, and red blood cell production.
Vitamin B12 Supplement is an essential vitamin that helps support brain function and the formation of red blood cells.
Riboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is essential for energy production, cell function, and fat metabolism in your dog's body.
Vitamin D3 supplement is an essential vitamin that supports bone health, immune function, and overall well-being in dogs. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus balance in the body, promoting strong and healthy bones.
Folic acid is a crucial B-vitamin that aids in the synthesis of DNA and supports healthy cell growth. It's essential for maintaining your dog's overall health, particularly during periods of rapid growth.
Crude Protein (min) of 24.00%: The primary contributor to the crude protein content in this dog food is the salmon meal, which is a concentrated form of protein derived from salmon. Other ingredients such as ocean fish meal, pea protein, and even the peas themselves also contribute to the overall protein content. Protein is essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of a dog's body tissues.
Crude Fat (min) of 14.00%: The crude fat content is primarily derived from the canola oil and the fish meals (salmon meal and ocean fish meal) present in the food. Fat is a critical source of energy for dogs and also supports healthy skin and coat. Additionally, flaxseed may contribute some fat in the form of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for health.
Crude Fiber (max) of 3.00%: The fiber in this dog food comes from ingredients such as sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, and potato fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help to regulate bowel movements. The dried chicory root may also contribute a small amount of inulin, a type of soluble fiber that can support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Calories of 3590.00 per kg: The caloric content is a measure of the energy provided by the food. The calories in this dog food come from a combination of the macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The salmon meal and canola oil are calorie-dense ingredients, contributing significantly to the total caloric content. Carbohydrates from sweet potatoes, peas, and potatoes also add to the calorie count.
