victor salmon dog food ingredients

Victor Select Dog Food Review (Dry)

Victor Select Dog Food Review (Dry)

By Mike Sagman

Updated: March 20, 2024

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Which Victor Select Recipes Get Our Best Ratings?

Victor Select Dog Food receives the Advisors top rating of 5 stars.

The Victor Select product line includes the 7 dry dog foods listed below.

Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile when available Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.

Recipe and Label Analysis

Victor Select Grain Free Yukon River was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.

Label and nutrient data below are calculated using dry matter basis.

Victor Select Grain Free Yukon River

Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content

Menhaden fish meal (source of DHA-docosahexaenoic acid), peas, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), garbanzo beans, dehydrated salmon, sweet potato, yeast culture, dehydrated alfalfa meal, blood meal conventionally dried, natural flavor, potassium chloride, carrot powder, tomato pomace, salt, organic dried seaweed meal, taurine, choline chloride, calcium stearate, zinc methionine complex, vitamin E supplement, dl-methionine, iron amino acid complex, hydrolyzed yeast, manganese amino acid complex, silicon dioxide, l-carnitine, selenium yeast, brewers dried yeast, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract, dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, copper sulfate, niacin supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin A supplement, d-calcium pantothenate, thiamine mononitrate, biotin, Yucca schidigera extract, calcium carbonate, riboflavin supplement, calcium iodate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin D3 supplement, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, vegetable oil, rosemary extract, green tea extract, spearmint extract, inulin, lecithin, folic acid

Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 3.8%

Red denotes any controversial items

Ingredient Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is menhaden fish meal. Because it is considered a meat concentrate, fish meal contains almost 300% more protein than fresh fish itself.

Menhaden are small ocean fish related to herring. Theyre rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Whats more, in their mid-depth habitat, menhaden are not exposed to mercury contamination as can be typical with deep water species.

Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.¹

The second 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 third ingredient is chicken fat. This item 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 fourth ingredient lists garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas. Like peas, beans and lentils, the chickpea is a nutritious member of the fiber-rich legume (pulse) family of vegetables.

Garbanzos contain about 22% protein, something which must be considered when evaluating the total protein reported in this food.

The next ingredient is dehydrated salmon. Dehydrated salmon is considered a meat concentrate and contains more than four times as much protein as fresh salmon.

Plus (unlike salmon meal) dehydrated salmon is never exposed to high temperatures during processing, so it preserves more of the meats natural nutrients.

The sixth 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 seventh ingredient is yeast culture. Although yeast culture is high in B-vitamins and protein, it can also be used as a probiotic to aid in digestion.

The eighth inclusion is dried alfalfa meal. Although alfalfa meal is high in plant protein (about 18%) and fiber (25%), this hay-family item is more commonly associated with horse feeds.

The ninth ingredient is blood meal. Blood meal is a by-product of slaughter and used to make high-protein (very low ash) animal feeds.

Yet even though some consider it a controversial ingredient, blood meal can still be considered a quality source of animal protein.

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 Victor product.

With 8 notable exceptions

First, tomato pomace is a controversial ingredient, a by-product remaining after processing tomatoes into juice, soup and ketchup.

Many praise tomato pomace for its high fiber and nutrient content, while others scorn it as an inexpensive pet food filler.

Just the same, theres probably not enough tomato pomace here to make much of a difference.

Next, we note the use of 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.

In addition, dried seaweed meal is a product made from a family of brown algae known as Fucaceae (Rockweed). Although it does contain a number of healthy nutrients, seaweed meal is primarily used as a source of inexpensive carbohydrates (about 60% dry matter).

Next, we find brewers yeast in this recipe, which can be a controversial item. Although its a by-product of the beer making process, this ingredient is rich in minerals and other healthy nutrients.

Fans believe yeast repels fleas and supports the immune system.

Critics argue yeast ingredients can be linked to allergies. This may be true, but (like all allergies) only if your particular dog is allergic to the yeast itself.

In addition, a vocal minority insists yeast can increase the risk of developing the life-threatening condition known as bloat. However, this is a claim weve not been able to scientifically verify.

In any case, unless your dog is specifically allergic to it, yeast can still be considered a nutritious additive.

Whats more noteworthy here is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

We also note the use of dried fermentation products. Fermentation products are typically added as probiotics to aid with digestion.

Next, vegetable oil is a generic oil of unknown origin. The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats in any oil is nutritionally critical and can vary significantly (depending on the source).

Without knowing more, its impossible to judge the quality of an item so vaguely described. However, compared to a named animal fat, a generic vegetable oil cannot be considered a quality ingredient.

In addition, 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 includes 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, Victor Select Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 36%, a fat level of 18% and estimated carbohydrates of about 38%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 30% and a mean fat level of 15%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 47% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.

Which means this Victor product line contains

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 peas, garbanzo beans, alfalfa meal and yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a significant amount of meat.

Our Rating of Victor Select Dog Food

Victor Select includes both grain-inclusive and grain-free dry dog foods using a significant amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 5 stars.

Enthusiastically recommended.

Victor Dog Food Recall History

The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to Victor through April.

You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.

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More Victor Brand Reviews

The following Victor dog food reviews are also posted on this website:

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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Grain Free Yukon River Canine

Menhaden Fish Meal (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed Tocopherols), Garbanzo Beans, Dehydrated Salmon, Sweet Potato, Yeast Culture, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Blood Meal Conventionally Dried, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Carrot Powder, Tomato Pomace, Salt, Organic Dried Seaweed Meal, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Calcium Stearate, Zinc Methionine Complex, Vitamin E Supplement, DL-Methionine, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Silicon Dioxide, L-Carnitine, Selenium Yeast, Brewers Dried Yeast, Copper Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Mono and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids, Thiamine Mononitrate, Biotin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Riboflavin Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract, Inulin, Lecithin, Folic Acid, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation ProductContains a source of live (viable), naturally occurring microorganisms

Victor Dog Food Alternatives

Victor is known as a premium pet food and one of the most popular dog food brands due to the selection of good-quality ingredients, a high percentage of protein from meat sources, plants, and grains, and of course, the good ratings from customers.

However, some dog owners expect protein from different meats and better ingredients for the price they pay.

Plus, theres been some controversy concerning blood meal used in Victor dog food.

So, if you are one of those who would like to find a more cost-effective dog food with as good, or even better ingredients, continue reading.

Weve spent a lot of time researching and reviewing to come up with a list of our favorite alternatives to Victor Dog Food.

The #1 Victor alternative regarding ingredients, quality, and cost is Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains.

Many dog parents choose this brand for their fur babies because its healthy, available, and has a reasonable price.

Continue reading to find out more about this dog food.

Check out the shortlist of our favorite Victor alternatives.

Best Victor Dog Food Alternatives

1. Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food (Victor Select Ocean Fish Formula Alternative)
2. Nom Nom Turkey Fare Formula (Victor Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew Cuts in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Dog Food Alternative)
3. Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice Formula All Life Stages Dry Dog Food (Victor Classic Professional Formula Alternative)
4. Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Formula Alternative)
5. SPORTMIX CanineX Performance Beef Formula Dry Dog Food (Victor Realtree Max5 Pro Formula Alternative)
6. Wellness Complete Health Senior Deboned Chicken & Barley Dry Dog Food (Victor Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Formula Alternative)
7. American Journey Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Victor Purpose Hero Grain-Free Formula Alternative)
8. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wolf Creek Stew Hearty Beef Canned Dog Food (Victor Beef & Vegetables Stew Formula Alternative)

8Dog Foods Similar to Victor Reviewed

Victor is a well-known pet food manufacturer based in Texas, USA. They have several lines of super premium dog food for all life stages. Their recipes include a mix of ingredients that come from farms and ranches near the plant in East Texas.

All recipes contain a remarkable amount of protein and an excellent selection of ancient and whole grains.

Still, there are many quality dog foods similar to Victor that contain better protein sources and high-quality whole grains which are beneficial for your dogs digestibility and overall health condition.

Weve listed some of these foods below. Lets begin a walk-through of several dog foods comparable to Victors.

We listed this dog food #1 on our list for several reasons.

Taste of the Wilds recipe is a special mixture of what dogs want and need.

This brand takes care of dogs wild side and gives them something nutritious and healthy.

The recipe is for all life stages and all dog breeds, so its suitable for puppies and senior dogs as well. So, if you have a puppy, large breed or small breed dont worry, you cant make a mistake with Taste of the Wild.

Ingredients like Salmon, Grain Sorghum, Quinoa, Millet, Blueberries, Tomatoes, and Raspberries give your pup protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and omega fatty acids necessary to thrive.

Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains has 30 % crude protein, and 15 % crude fat, whereas Victors formula has 24 % crude protein and 12 % crude fat.

My pups and the dogs at the shelter absolutely love this formula and they cant wait to devour it!

Key Takeaways:

• The #1 ingredient is real salmon
• Rich in protein from ancient grains like grain sorghum, millet, chia seed, and quinoa
• Specifically developed K9 probiotics for a healthy immune and digestive system
• High levels of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for shiny skin and coat
• Lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost the immune system

Therefore, our top alternative to Victor Select Ocean Fish Formula is more affordable, yet it has more protein and fat.

Taste of the Wilds recipe is made with sustainably sourced salmon that provides protein and omega fatty acids for a happy, strong dog with shiny fur.

The other ingredients like ancient grains and fruits are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost the immune system.

And last but not least, the formula is enriched with K-9 probiotics and omega fatty acids for a healthy digestive and immune system.

This freshly made meat-based recipe can be an alternative to Victors Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew Cuts in Gravy canned dog food.

It can be a great choice if youre looking to switch to a fresh food diet.

The Turkey Fare formula by Nom Nom features ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach, vinegar, salt, water sufficient for processing, fish oil, and vitamins.

In comparison, Nom Noms recipe has 10% while Victors recipe has 8% crude protein.

The formulas have the same amounts of fat, but what makes Nom Noms unique is the fact that it offers freshly prepared, human-grade meals for dogs.

It uses high-quality, whole-food ingredients that are sourced from reputable suppliers.

The ingredients are often fresher and of higher quality compared to traditional commercial dog foods.

And we picked it as an alternative to Victors dog food taking into consideration the balanced, nutritious food it offers and the option to customize your dogs meals according to his dietary needs.

So, why Nom Nom Turkey Fare?

• Fresh ingredients
• Balanced nutrition
• No grains, no fillers, no by-products
• Customized meal plans based on your dogs needs
• Plenty of vitamins

After putting it to the test, we can say that your pup will wolf down these delicious, carefully prepared meals immediately.

Special Limited Time Offer

For all our readers we have a special gift 50% off + Free Shipping on your first order of Nom Nom when you click on the button below.

The Chicken and Rice Formula is for growing puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs as well and its suitable for all dog breeds.

Its an excellent alternative to Victor Classic Professional Formula (26% crude protein, 18% crude fat) with 26% crude protein and 16% crude fat.

The ingredients include Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Grain Sorghum, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Quinoa, Spinach, vitamins, and minerals.

It gives your pup lots of energy to stay active and it helps build muscle.

Key Takeaways:

• 1 ingredient is fresh cage-free chicken
• Lots of protein and added superfoods that give your dog energy and build muscles
• Antioxidants and omega-fatty acids that support the immune system and give a shiny coat
• K-9 Strain Probiotics for a healthy digestive system
• DHA for brain and vision development
• Affordable

So, Diamond Naturals All Life Stages offers a high-protein, healthy, nutritious dog food that supports your dogs immune system, digestive system, muscle, brain, and vision development.

This recipe is a great alternative to Victor Purpose Nutra Pro high-protein formula.

Its for adult dogs only, but all dog breeds can enjoy Orijens formula which includes 85% animal ingredients.

That means that the most important ingredients are fresh or raw Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, whole Mackerel, and Chicken Liver.

Lots of protein from a whole prey diet that includes poultry, organs, and fish.

The brand claims that dogs used to hunt in the wild and ate the whole prey, so their modern diet should also include all nutritious parts of the prey.

And, it has the same amount of crude protein and crude fat as Victors recipe (38%, 18% respectively), but its more reasonably priced.

Key Takeaways:

• High in protein, vitamins, and minerals from animal sources
• The first 5 ingredients are always raw or fresh poultry or fish
• At least 15 fresh or raw ingredients in every recipe
• Whole prey nutrient-dense diet for high energy throughout the day
• Grain-Free

If you want food thats as high in protein and fat as Victors, and its the closest thing to a raw diet, Orijen is your choice.

Your dog will get the necessary nutrients and energy, and you wont overpay.

Its developed for active adult canines that need a lot of energy and strength for their daily activities.

Its a terrific alternative to Victor Realtree Max-5 Pro formula (30 % protein, 20 % fat) due to the high percentage of protein, 26 %, and fat, 24 %.

The main ingredients are Beef Meal, Peas, Egg, Beet Pulp, Flaxseed, and Dried Yeast.

SPORTMIXS formula is fortified with vitamins and minerals to help your dog stay healthy and strong.

Key Takeaways:

• Loaded with protein from high-quality beef and egg
• Specially added Glucosamine and Chondroitin for healthy joints
• L-Carnitine to support muscle development
• Added omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for shiny fur, healthy vision, and skin
• No corn, wheat, soy, or by-products

This brand offers a high-protein recipe that will boost your dogs performance and strength while keeping him healthy.

Its available for online purchase and its budget-friendly.

This is our favorite alternative to Victor Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Formula.

It is for senior dogs and all dog breeds can enjoy this formula with real meat.

Yes, the first ingredient is Deboned Chicken.

The recipe consists of Chicken meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Ground Brown Rice, Ground Flaxseed, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals.

The combination of ingredients gives your dog protein, natural fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids that support the digestive system, and promote health and shiny skin and fur.

Key Takeaways:

• Stacked with protein from real chicken meat
• Loaded with fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids for a healthy digestive and immune system, and a shiny coat
• Added Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate to support hip and joint health
• Natural dog food made in the USA
• No filler, no by-products

If you are looking for high-quality dog food that meets the needs of your senior dog and it isnt so pricey, Wellness Complete Health Senior has you covered.

Weve found this brand suitable for sensitive stomachs and dogs with allergies.

Its grain-free formula means no wheat, soy, corn, etc., so your pup will get the necessary nutrients without having any troubles.

Its for all dog breeds and all life stages.

Its really high in protein- 32%, only 1% less than Victor Purpose Hero formula.

And the main ingredients like deboned beef, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, fish oil, blueberries, and carrots are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that your canine buddy needs to thrive.

Key Takeaways:

• 1 ingredient is real beef
• Lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for a healthy, playful pup
• Omega fatty acids for shiny skin and coat
• High in protein for building lean muscles
• DHA for brain and vision development
• No wheat, soy, corn, or by-products

This is a great alternative to Victors pricier formula because it contains almost the same amount of protein and fat, lots of healthy ingredients, real beef meat, vitamins, minerals, and no grains that might cause issues.

If your fur baby is a fan of wet food, we recommend this brand as an alternative to Victor Beef & Vegetables Stew recipe.

Its for adult dogs prone to food allergies caused by grains, hence a grain-free formula.

The recipe is high in protein from real meat like Beef and Chicken Liver.

Other ingredients like Chicken, Beef Broth, Chicken Meal, Dried Egg Product, Peas, Potatoes, Pea fiber, and added vitamins and supplements provide your canine companion with complex carbs and lots of nutrients.

Compared to Victors recipe, it contains slightly more crude protein, 8.5 %, and less crude fat, 3 %.

Key Takeaways:

• High in protein from real beef and chicken
• Healthy ingredients that give your pup energy, a healthy immune system, and a shiny coat
• No corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or by-products
• Affordable

You can satisfy your dogs cravings for real meat with these tasty chunks of beef and chicken stew.

Your dog can have it as a meal, mixed with their kibble, or as a treat.

Plus, you get good-quality ingredients for a fair price.

How to Transition to New Dog Food

If you decided on trying a new food for your furry buddy, you probably wonder how to do it in the best way possible.

Weve already been there, so dont worry, its normal to stress about it a little bit.

However, with the right food, and carefully chosen ingredients for your canine companion to thrive, you should feel confident about your decision.

Now, check out our mini guide on how to transition to a new food:

Basically, you switch your dog to new food in 7 days.

Mix 25% of the new food with your dogs old food for the first few days.

Then add 50% of the new food and 50 % of the old food for the next 2 days.

After that, mix 75% of the new food with 25% of the old food.

And at the end, you can give 100 % of the new food to your dog.

We recommend this useful video by Dr. Gary Richter explaining how to reduce the risk of your dog developing an upset stomach or diarrhea when you switch to a new food.

Conclusion

Premium dog brands offer high-quality ingredients that help your dog stay healthy, strong, and active.

And we all want the best for our furry friends, but sometimes we ask ourselves if we are paying a bit much and if another food on the market fulfills all desired criteria, but comes with an acceptable price.

Well, after testing so many dog foods and talking to other pet parents, vets, and experts, we can say that Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains is our #1 alternative to Victors formula.

This Victor dog food alternative has real salmon, and lots of healthy ingredients high in antioxidants, fiber, omega fatty acids, and K-9 probiotics that provide your dog with protein, boost his immune system, and digestive system, and keep his coat healthy and shiny.