wholesome salmon dog food reviews

4Health Dog Food Review (Dry)

The 4Health product line includes the 11 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

4Health Chicken and Rice Formula 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 barley, a starchy carbohydrate supplying fiber and other healthy nutrients. However, aside from its energy content, this cereal grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

The next ingredient is ground white rice, another name for rice flour. Ground rice is made from either white or brown rice and is considered a gluten-free substitute for wheat flour.

The fifth 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 sixth ingredient is oatmeal, a whole-grain product made from coarsely ground oats. Oatmeal is naturally rich in B-vitamins, dietary fiber and can be (depending upon its level of purity) gluten-free.

The next ingredient is beet pulp. Beet pulp is a controversial ingredient, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing.

Some denounce beet pulp as an inexpensive filler while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits.

We only call your attention here to the controversy and believe the inclusion of beet pulp in reasonable amounts in most dog foods is entirely acceptable.

After the natural chicken flavor, 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.

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 4Health product.

With 5 notable exceptions

First, we note the inclusion of ocean fish meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate.

Unfortunately, the phrase ocean fish is vague and does little to adequately describe this ingredient. Since some fish are higher in omega-3 fats than others, its impossible for us to judge the quality of this item.

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

Next, chicory root is rich in inulin, 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 prebiotic used to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in a dogs digestive tract.

In addition, 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.

Next, this recipe contains 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 includes 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, 4Health looks like an above-average dry dog food.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 29%, a fat level of 17% and estimated carbohydrates of about 46%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 27% and a mean fat level of 14%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 51% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.

Which means this 4Health product line contains

Near-average protein. Below-average fat. And above-average carbs when compared to other dry dog foods.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat.

4Health Dog Food Recall History

The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to 4Health through April 2024.

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

Our Rating of 4Health Dog Food

4Health is a grain-inclusive dry dog food using a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4.5 stars.

Please note certain recipes are sometimes given a higher or lower rating based upon our estimate of their total meat content and (when appropriate) their fat-to-protein ratios.

Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe With Wholesome Grains For Adult Dogs Review

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Review of Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe With Wholesome Grains For Adult Dogs

According to our data, this Canidae recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult dogs. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe With Wholesome Grains For Adult Dogs is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult dogs.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe With Wholesome Grains For Adult Dogs, we'll examine all 37 ingredients and highlight the nutritional contribution of each ingredient.

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Menhaden meal is a high-quality, concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. It supports healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall well-being, as well as providing essential nutrients for growth and development.

4. Barley is a nutritious, fiber-rich grain that helps promote healthy digestion and provides essential nutrients for your dog's overall health. It is also a great source of energy, vitamins, and minerals.

5. Oatmeal is a highly digestible and nutritious source of carbohydrates that provides your dog with energy, fiber, and essential nutrients for a healthy digestive system and overall well-being.

6. Brown rice is a whole grain that provides an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients for your dog. The fiber content can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, while the carbohydrates provide energy for an active lifestyle.

7. Whole grain sorghum is a gluten-free grain that provides your dog with a source of digestible carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients for overall health.

8. Canola oil is a healthy source of fat that provides essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, to support your dog's skin, coat, and overall health. It is also a good source of energy and can help improve the taste and texture of your dog's food.

9. Sun-cured alfalfa meal is a nutrient-dense ingredient that provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.

13. Taurine is an essential amino acid that supports heart health, vision, and development and function of skeletal muscle.

14. Choline Chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in brain and liver function, muscle movement, and supports healthy metabolic processes.

15. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of dog food, ensuring your pet receives the highest quality nutrients possible.

16. 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.

17. Vitamin E supplement is an essential nutrient that helps support your dog's immune system, skin health, and overall wellness.

18. 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.

19. Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for a dog's metabolism and energy production, and supports healthy skin and coat.

20. L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate is a stable form of vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system, joint health, and overall wellness.

21. Calcium pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that helps support your dog's energy metabolism and nervous system function.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. Vitamin A Supplement is important for supporting vision, immune function, and skin health in dogs.

25. Sodium selenite is a form of selenium, a necessary trace mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health in dogs.

26. Riboflavin supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which is crucial for your dog's energy production, cell function, and overall growth and development.

27. Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 that helps support your dog's nervous system function, energy metabolism, and overall health.

28. 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.

29. Biotin is a B-vitamin that's important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails in dogs.

30. Vitamin B12 Supplement is an essential vitamin that helps support brain function and the formation of red blood cells.

31. Zinc proteinate is a highly absorbable form of zinc. It helps support a healthy immune system, skin, and coat in dogs.

32. 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.

33. Ethylenediamine dihydroiodide is a source of iodine, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's thyroid function and overall metabolism. Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, which play a crucial role in regulating your dog's growth, development, and energy levels.

34. 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.

35. 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.

36. Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria in your dog, promoting optimal digestion and immune system function.

37. The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 25.00% is likely contributed to by the first three ingredients: salmon, salmon meal, and menhaden fish meal. These are all high-quality sources of protein which are essential for a dog's muscle structure and function. Salmon meal and menhaden fish meal are concentrated forms of protein because they are rendered and contain less water than fresh salmon.

The Crude Fat minimum of 14.50% is also primarily derived from the salmon and menhaden fish meal, as fish are naturally rich in oils and fats. Additionally, canola oil contributes to the fat content. Fats are crucial for a dog's energy, skin, and coat health.

Crude Fiber maximum of 5.00% would come from ingredients such as barley, oatmeal, brown rice, whole grain sorghum, and suncured alfalfa meal. These grains and plant materials provide dietary fiber which aids in digestive health.

The calorie content of 3652.00 per kg can be attributed to the combined caloric values of all the ingredients, with the primary contributors being the protein and fat sources (salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, and canola oil) since fats provide more than twice the calories per gram compared to proteins and carbohydrates. The grains like barley, oatmeal, and brown rice also contribute to the overall caloric content, providing energy in the form of complex carbohydrates.

The rest of the ingredients, including various vitamins, minerals, and fermentation products, contribute to the overall nutritional balance of the food but do not significantly affect the guaranteed analysis values of protein, fat, fiber, and calories. These ingredients ensure that the food meets the nutritional needs for vitamins and minerals in a dog's diet.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe With Wholesome Grains For Adult Dogs costs approximately $3.02 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have had a generally positive experience with Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe, highlighting its benefits for dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies. One Labrador owner specifically mentioned that it's the only food their pet can tolerate, and it's enjoyed by their dog. Another customer was relieved to find this food after trying about ten different brands, as it resolved most of their dog's skin, stomach, and ear issues.

Several reviewers have praised the food for its high quality and suitability for dogs with specific dietary needs. For instance, a dog with numerous allergies has done well on this food, and a picky eater with anxiety-related feeding issues transitioned to it without any problems. The food's calorie density was also appreciated for an adolescent Doberman.

On the other hand, some customers noted that their dogs experienced gas after consuming the food, though they still considered the product worth the investment due to its overall positive impact on their pets' health. Many appreciate the limited ingredients and single fish protein source, which has been beneficial for dogs with chicken allergies, resulting in a significant reduction in chronic ear infections.

While there have been some reports of dogs not taking to the food as well as hoped, the majority of feedback is positive, with dogs enjoying both the salmon and beef flavors. Pet owners are also calling for the availability of larger bag sizes, as their dogs go through the smaller bags quickly. Overall, Canidae Pure Goodness Real Salmon & Barley Recipe seems to be a hit with dogs, particularly those with dietary restrictions, and is valued by their owners for its quality ingredients and positive health outcomes.