open farm wild caught salmon dog food
Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food Review (Dry)
The Open Farm Grain-Free product line includes the 10dry dog foods listed below.
Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Ingredients Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is beef. Although its a quality item, raw beef contains up to 73% 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 ocean whitefish meal. Because it is considered a meat concentrate, fish meal contains almost 300% more protein than fresh fish itself.
Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.1
Whitefish is a marine or freshwater species native to Canada and the California coast.
The third ingredient includes peas. Peas are a quality source of carbohydrates. And like all legumes, theyre rich in natural fiber.
However, peas contain about 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.
The next ingredient is sweet potato. Sweet potatoes are a gluten-free source of complex carbohydrates in dog food. They are naturally rich in dietary fiber and beta carotene.
The fifth ingredient is beef liver. This is an organ meat sourced from a named animal and thus considered a beneficial component.
The sixth ingredient item is pumpkin, which is a nutritious addition high in complex carbohydrates, beta-carotene and dietary fiber.
The seventh ingredient is coconut oil, a natural oil rich in medium-chain fatty acids.
Medium-chain triglycerides have been shown to improve cognitive function in older dogs.2
Because of its proven safety3 as well as its potential to help in the treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) and chronic skin disorders, MCT can be considered a positive addition to this recipe.
The eighth ingredient includes chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. Like peas, beans and lentils, chickpeas are a nutritious member of the fiber-rich legume (or pulse) family of vegetables.
However, chickpeas contain about 22% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
The ninth ingredient is herring meal, yet another high protein meat concentrate.
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 Open Farm product.
With 8 notable exceptions
First, we note the use of lentils. Lentils are a quality source of carbohydrates. Plus (like all legumes) theyre rich in natural fiber.
However, lentils contain about 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
Next, we find flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.
However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
In addition, this food contains salmon oil. Salmon 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, salmon oil should be considered a commendable addition.
We also find sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is nutritionally similar to safflower oil. Since these oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids and contain no omega-3s, theyre considered less nutritious than canola or flaxseed oils.
Sunflower oil is notable for its resistance to heat damage during cooking.
There are several different types of sunflower oil, some better than others. Without knowing more, its impossible to judge the quality of this ingredient.
This product also lists alfalfa meal. Although alfalfa is high in protein (18%) and fiber, its uncommon to see it used in dog food. This hay-family ingredient is more commonly associated with horse feeds.
Another notable inclusion is taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.
Since taurine deficiency appears to be more common in pets consuming grain-free diets, we view its presence in this recipe as a positive addition.
Next, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.
And lastly, this recipe incorporates selenium yeast. Unlike the more common inorganic form of selenium (sodium selenite), this natural yeast supplement is considered a safer anti-cancer alternative.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 33%, a fat level of 16% and estimated carbohydrates of about 43%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 34% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 42% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Above-average protein. Near-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the legumes, flaxseed and alfalfa, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a significant amount of meat.
Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon & Ancient Grains Recipe w/ Quinoa & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food
This tasty high protein, gluten-free meal is loaded with sustainably caught, Ocean Wise certified salmon, wholesome grains like steel-cut oats, quinoa, and chia seeds and superfoods like coconut oil, pumpkin and turmeric. Its dry good-for-your-pup food made without peas, potatoes and legumes.
Key ingredient included in this formula is:Wild-Caught Salmon
About The Manufacturer
Open Farm is a family business based out of Toronto, Canada. Our mission is to create highly nutritious pet foods while also driving positive change in our industry.
Ingredients
Salmon, Oats, Ocean Whitefish Meal, Sorghum, Quinoa, Coconut Oil, Herring Meal, Pumpkin, Natural Flavor, Millet, Carrots, Apples, Cranberries, Potassium Chloride, Salmon Oil (source of DHA), Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid), Dried Chicory Root, Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Selenium Yeast, Calcium Iodate), Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Cinnamon, Turmeric, Rosemary Extract.
Guaranteed Analysis
| Guaranteed Analysis: | |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein (Min.) | 26% |
| Crude Fat (Min.) | 15% |
| Crude Fiber (Max.) | 4.5% |
| Moisture (Max.) | 10% |
| Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)(Min.) | 0.11% |
| Calcium (Min.) | 1.2% |
| Phosphorus (Min.) | 1% |
| Vitamin A (Min.) | 5000 IU/Kg |
| Vitamin E (Min.) | 50 IU/Kg |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Min.) | 0.40% |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids (Min.) | 1.25% |
| Taurine (Min.) | 0.2% |
Calorie Content: 3745 kcal ME/kg; 424 kcal ME/cup
Feeding Instructions
ADULT DOGS:
| Weight(lbs) | Less Active: Cups/Day | More Active: Cups/Day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 or less | - | - |
| 10-20 | - | - 1 |
| 20-30 | - 1 | 1 - 1 |
| 30-40 | 1 - 1 | 1 - 2 |
| 40-60 | 1 - 2 | 2 - 3 |
| 60-80 | 2 - 2 | 3 - 3 |
| 80-100 | 2 - 3 | 3 - 4 |
PUPPIES:
| Weight(lbs) | 1 to 6 Months: Cups/Day | 6 to 12 Months: Cups/Day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 or less | 1 - 1 | - 1 |
| 10-20 | 1 - 2 | 1 - 1 |
| 20-30 | 2 - 3 | 1 - 2 |
| 30-40 | 3 - 4 | 2 - 2 |
| 40-50 | 4 - 5 | 2 - 3 |
| 50-60 | 5 - 5 | 3 - 4 |
| 60-70 | 5 - 6 | 4 - 4 |
| 70-80 | 6 - 7 | 4 - 4 |
Add cup for every 10 lbs over 100 lbs.Gestation: Increase 25% - 50%, Lactation: Feed free-choice.
Adjust feed according to your dog's age, energy and activity level.Always ensure fresh water is available.
Transition InstructionsIt takes time to transition your pet to a new food without having digestive upset. Over the course of one to two weeks, you should gradually switch from the old food to the new. Start with a 75% old to 25% new mix, then 50:50, and finally 25:75, until you have switched to Open Farm food entirely.
AAFCO Statement:Open FarmWild-Caught Salmon & Ancient Grains Recipe w/ Quinoa & Pumpkin dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile for all life stages except for growth of large size dogs (70 lb or more as an adult).
Open Farm Wild Caught Salmon Dry Dog Food
Open Farm Wild Caught Salmon Dry Dog Food is a humane and delicious recipe for your pooch. This nutrient-dense kibble features wild-caught salmon. The salmon is caught by using sustainable fishing practices in the North Pacific Ocean. It is packed with Omega3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to help support healthy skin, coat, and overall wellbeing.
Open Farm Wild Caught Salmon Dry Dog Food is free of poultry or potato. This makes it an excellent choice for pups with allergies or sensitivities to poultry. It contains no antibiotics, added hormones, wheat, corn, or soy. It is also free of artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives. All ingredients are 100% traceable, back to the source. Always ensure that your pups have access to fresh, clean water. Available in a 4 lb, 11 lb, or 22 lb bag.
Why We Recommend Open Farm Wild Caught Salmon Dry Dog Food:
- A humane and delicious recipe
- Grain-free
- Formulated for all life stages
- Premium and non-GMO ingredients
- High-in-protein recipe
- Prebiotic fibers supports a healthy digestive system
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
- Wild Pacific salmon is sourced through sustainable fishing practices
- No rendered poultry or meats
- Free from corn, wheat, or soy
- 100% traceable ingredients
- No poultry or potato
- Antiviral, anti-fungal, antibacterial
- Helps to balance immune systems
- Available in a 4 lb, 11 lb, or 22 lb bag
Ingredients:
Wild Pacific Salmon, Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas), Ocean Whitefish Meal, Field Peas, Herring Meal, Coconut Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Green Lentils, Coconut Meal, Natural Flavour, Salmon Oil, Sunflower Oil, Pumpkin, Cranberries, Chicory Root, Apples, Choline Chloride, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (a natural preservative), Vitamin E Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Dicalcium Phosphate, Zinc Proteinate, Calcium Carbonate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Selenium Yeast, Calcium Iodate, Rosemary Extract, Taurine, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Tricalcium Phosphate
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage of Recipe |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | (min) 30% |
| Crude Fat | (min) 14% |
| Crude Fibre | (max) 4.5% |
| Moisture | (max) 10% |
| DHA | (min) 0.11% |
| Calcium | (min) 1.2% |
| Phosphorus | (min) 1.0% |
| Vitamin A | (min) 5000 IU/kg |
| Vitamin E | (min) 50 IU/kg |
| Taurine | (min) 0.1% |
| Omega-6* | (min) 1.25% |
| Omega-3* | (min) 0.4% |
Calorie Content: 3600 kcal me/kg, 420 kcal me/cup
Feeding Guide:
Adult Dog
| Weight(lbs) | Less Active: Cups/Day | More Active: Cups/Day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs or less | - | - |
| 10-20 lbs | -1 | -1 |
| 20-30 lbs | 1-1 | 1-1 |
| 30-40 lbs | 1-1 | 1-2 |
| 40-60 lbs | 1-2 | 2-3 |
| 60-80 lbs | 2-2 | 3-3 |
| 80-100 lbs | 2-3 | 3-4 |
Puppies
| Weight(lbs) | 1 to 6 Months | 6 to 12 Months |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 10 lbs | 1 | 1 |
| 10-20 lbs | 2 | 1 |
| 20-30 lbs | 3 | 2 |
| 30-40 lbs | 4 | 2 |
| 40-50 lbs | 5 | 3 |
| 50-60 lbs | 5 | 3 |
| 70-80 lbs | 7 | 4 |
Add cup for every 10 lbs over 100 lbs.Gestation: Increase 25% 50% Lactation: Feed free-choice.
