wholehearted salmon dog food
WholeHearted Grain Free Dog Food Review (Dry)
The WholeHearted Grain Free product line includes the 17 dry dog foods listed below.
Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Recipe and Label Analysis
WholeHearted Senior Chicken was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
Ingredients Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken 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 chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
The third ingredient is 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 fourth ingredient is pea flour, a powder made from roasted yellow peas. Pea flour contains as much as 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.
The fifth ingredient includes 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.
The sixth ingredient is 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.
The seventh ingredient is tomato pomace. 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.
The eighth 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 ninth ingredient is natural flavors. Natural flavors doesnt give us much information about the particular ingredients included in this dog food for flavoring purposes.
Were pleased that the flavorings used are natural, but more details are required to give any further information about these natural flavoring ingredients. Flavorings are used to make the foods more appealing and tasty for our dogs.
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 5 notable exceptions
First, 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.
We view the presence of Taurine in this recipe as a positive addition.
Next chicory root. Chicory is rich in , a starch-like compound made up of repeating units of carbohydrates and found in certain roots and tubers.
Not only is inulin a natural source of soluble dietary fiber, its also a used to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in a dogs digestive tract.
In addition, we note the inclusion of dried fermentation products in this recipe. Fermentation products are typically added as probiotics to aid with digestion.
This recipe also includes sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.
And lastly, 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.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, WholeHearted Grain Free Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 30%, a fat level of 11% and estimated carbohydrates of about 51%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 29% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 48% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Near-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
When you consider the protein-boosting effect of the lentils, and flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat.
WholeHearted Dog Food Recall History
The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to WholeHearted through April 2024.
No recalls noted.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.
WholeHearted Limited Ingredient Salmon Recipe 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.
Lentils are a high-quality, plant-based protein source that also provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight for your dog.
Chickpea is a nutrient-dense legume that provides a valuable source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals to support your dog's overall wellbeing.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
Manganous oxide is an important trace mineral that helps support your dog's metabolism, bone formation, and nerve function.
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.
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.
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.
The crude protein value of 30.00% is likely primarily contributed by the first two ingredients: salmon and salmon meal. Salmon is a high-quality source of protein that provides essential amino acids necessary for a dog's health. Salmon meal, which is rendered from whole fish, is a concentrated form of protein as the water content has been removed, making it a potent source of animal protein.
The crude fat minimum of 15.00% is also largely due to the salmon and canola oil present in the food. Salmon is naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats that can contribute to a dog's shiny coat and overall health. Canola oil, preserved with mixed tocopherols, is a source of monounsaturated fats and is often used in dog foods as a fat source to increase the energy density and palatability of the food.
The maximum crude fiber content of 4.50% is likely influenced by the inclusion of lentils, chickpeas, and dried beet pulp in the ingredients. Lentils and chickpeas are legumes that provide not only protein but also dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety. Dried beet pulp is a common fiber source in dog foods that provides both soluble and insoluble fiber, helping to regulate the digestive system and support healthy stools.
Overall, the combination of these ingredients provides a balance of protein, fats, and fiber that is designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs while adhering to the principles of a limited ingredient diet, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
