Regardless of what the animal eats, changing the diet always requires time and attention from the owner, followed by recommendations from veterinarians.
Step one: choose the right product. To do this, you need to know the weight, breed, age and physiological characteristics of the pet. With the help of food, you can solve problems associated with castration, pregnancy, obesity, vitamin deficiency, etc. This data will limit the assortment to a few items and make selection easier.
Step two: gradually introduce new foods. A sudden change in the usual menu will cause stress and discomfort in the animal. In addition, individual intolerance to some component is not excluded. Therefore, allocate approximately 7-10 days for adaptation, during which you carefully monitor your pet.
In the beginning, add no more than 10% holistic dog food to a regular meal. Then gradually increase the dose until the animal is completely accustomed.
If, with a change in diet, some kind of malfunction is discovered in your pet’s body (digestive problems, tearfulness, lethargy, decreased appetite), then temporarily stop the innovation. There are two possible options for further action - spend more time on adaptation or check the dog for allergens.
Step three: try new flavors. After the product has become a familiar dish, start experimenting. For this purpose, lines with valuable species of fish and exotic meat (buffalo, venison, etc.) were released for sale.
Prices and where to buy
We have already noted above that prices for holistic food for dogs vary significantly. Some brands are more expensive, others are cheaper. Here are the estimated costs of some feeds:
- Acana 2 kg - from 1250 rubles (~625 rubles per 1 kg);
- Applaws 2 kg - from 1066 rubles (~533 rubles per 1 kg);
- Brit Fresh 2.5 kg - from 1156 rubles (~462 rubles per 1 kg);
- Canagan 2 kg - from 1839 rubles (~919 rubles per 1 kg);
- Essential 3 kg - from 1647 rubles (~549 rubles per 1 kg);
- Grandorf 3 kg - from 1650 rubles (~550 rubles per 1 kg);
- Now Fresh 2.72 kg - from 1657 rubles (~609 rubles per 1 kg);
- Piccolo 1.5 kg - from 1605 rubles (~1070 rubles per 1 kg);
- Primordial 2 kg - from 1509 rubles (~754 rubles per 1 kg);
- Riverwood 2 kg - from 1278 rubles (~639 rubles per 1 kg).
The prices indicated are indicative and valid as of January 2022. They may differ significantly depending on the version of the specific food and the store in which it is sold.
As you can see from the list above, you can buy holistic dog food at very different prices. Some brands cost about 600 rubles per kg, while others cost more than 1000 rubles per kg. For example, a 3 kg package of Belgian Grandorf or British Essential costs almost the same as a 1.5 kg package of British Piccolo food. That is, the price differs by 2 times.
Which holistic treatments for dogs are better - dry or wet?
According to their purpose, they can be divided into two groups:
- for daily use - the consumption rate is calculated based on the age and weight of the animal;
- special - take into account the characteristics of dogs (puppies, allergy sufferers, nursing, etc.).
According to the form of release, they are divided into dry and canned.
Dry has the following advantages:
- lasts longer after opening the package;
- does not require special storage conditions;
- convenient to transport and calculate (regulate) consumption rates.
Flaws:
- some components are added to impart the desired properties to the granules, and not for the benefit of the animal.
The most popular brands include Acana, Artemis, Canidae, Go Fit+Free Grain Free, Innova, Orijen, Pronature, Grandorf, Now Fresh, 1st choice.
How holistic canned dog food is superior to its dry counterparts:
- easily and willingly absorbed by dogs of any age;
- the meat content is higher than in dry food;
- convenient to add to ready-made porridges (at the owner’s request).
Flaws:
- are more expensive (considering that the composition contains water, for which you also have to pay);
- Feeding exclusively wet food can lead to gum and tooth disease over time.
The most famous brands are Barking Heads, Belcando, Solid Natura, Go!Natual Holistic, Grandorf Natural and Healthy, etc.
Rating
We did not include all foods positioned by companies as holistic in our review. Only the best of the best are here. Diets were selected according to the following criteria:
- Volume of meat and its origin. This is the main criterion. The feed rating includes companies that use raw and fresh meat ingredients.
- Type and quantity of plant components. Holistic products for dogs do not contain grains or grains. Vegetables and fruits are sources of carbohydrates and fiber. But this does not mean that there should be 50% or more. Therefore, we selected diets with a minimum amount of plant products.
- User reviews. The opinions of animal owners do not always coincide with ours. To get a complete picture, we scoured canine forums and analyzed comments from real dog owners and breeders.
- Analyzes by veterinarians published on independent specialized sites: “Feed your pet correctly”, “Companion”, Dog Food Rating and others.
No. in the rating | Grade | Manufacturer country | Wed. price |
1.Orijen | 8,6 | Canada | 17 kg / 8,500 rub. |
2.Acana | 9,6 | Canada | 6 kg / 3,700 rub. |
3.Piccolo | 8 | Great Britain | 1.5 kg / 1,500 rub. |
4.AATU | 9,4 | England | 1.5 kg / 1,450 rub. |
5.Applaws | 9,6 | Great Britain | 7.5 kg / 3,400 rub. |
6.Grandorf | 9,5 | Russian brand, produced in Belgium and Italy | 3 kg / 1,600 rub. |
7.Primordial | 9,9 | Italy | 12 kg / 6,500 rub. |
8.Isegrim | 10 | Germany | 3 kg / 1,600 rub. |
Orijen
Orijen food is the brainchild of a Canadian company. Drying products are supplied to the CIS by the Russian importer AKANA.
Orijen has no equal in composition. In him:
- 85% meat ingredients - fresh, whole and dried chicken, turkey, ocean fish;
- up to 15% – vegetables and fruits;
- no grains or cereals;
- medicinal herbs and fruits: rose hips, cranberries, blueberries, brown algae, milk thistle, burdock, marshmallow, etc.;
- rich vitamin and mineral composition, including glucosamines and chondroitins.
The brand’s assortment includes 6 lines of dry granules:
- 2 types for puppies: for large kittens and babies of all breeds;
- everyday for all dogs;
- for older dogs;
- for weight correction;
- hypoallergenic from six types of fish.
However, there is criticism. Animal owners indicate that gastrointestinal disorders occurred when switching to Orijen. Plus, drying is not suitable for all dogs due to excess protein and fat.
Some owners also reported weight gain. But this factor is most likely associated with non-compliance with feeding standards. Any holistic food is more nutritious than other classes, so portions should be smaller. However, not all owners reduced the amount of food they consumed.
Pros:
- the highest percentage of animal ingredients among all foods on the market;
- completely natural composition;
- There are no sources of high-glycemic carbohydrates: grains, potatoes.
Minuses:
- not suitable for dogs with kidney and liver diseases due to fat content and large amount of protein;
- is high in calories, so it is better to give Orijen to working and hunting breeds, and choose “lighter” food for low-active breeds;
- Diarrhea sometimes occurs when switching to Orijen.
Acana
Acana food is manufactured by the same company as Orijen - Champion Petfoods. It is not surprising that the diets are neck and neck in quality and are developed according to the same concept.
However, Akana is distinguished by a greater variety of assortment. The company produces 4 lines, each of which has several subtypes:
- Classics. Presented in 2 varieties: Prairie Poultry based on poultry and Wild Coast made from 3 varieties of fish. This line contains the smallest amount of animal ingredients (50%) and contains whole oats. But in general, it corresponds to the concept of biological proper nutrition for predators. In addition, due to its low protein content, it is suitable for dogs with liver or kidney pathologies.
- Heritage. There are 9 types for dogs of different ages, sizes and activity. All types are grain-free, made from turkey, chicken, whole eggs, sea fish (protein sources account for 60-75%). Only the ratio of the components differs. Therefore, your pet can eat the Heritage line all its life – from puppyhood to old age.
- Regions For Dogs. Includes 3 varieties: one fish based and the other 2 with poultry, lamb and fish. Universal diets are suitable for all dogs.
- Singles. This name hides a hypoallergenic monoprotein line. All pellets in the series are made from the same type of meat: pork, lamb, duck or sardine. Plus they do not contain common allergens - eggs, chicken. Acana Singles are ideal for an elimination diet.
Akana's signature feature is the WholePrey concept. Cartilage, bones, entrails are added to the granules - everything that predators eat in the wild.
Pros:
- a large amount of animal protein, as well as fresh and frozen meat;
- dehydrated products are obtained through gentle treatment at low temperatures - this method preserves a maximum of vitamins and minerals;
- variety of lines;
- There are no fruits and vegetables that increase blood sugar levels.
Minuses:
- the Classics line contains grain - whole oats, but it rarely causes allergies;
- high price - Acana is 100-150 rubles per kg more expensive than Orijen, although the volume of meat in the first rations is lower.
Interesting: The smallest dog breeds
Piccolo
The English company Symply Pet Foods Ltd specializes exclusively in food for decorative and small dogs weighing up to 10 kg. She produces 3 brands
- for adults and small breed puppies with chicken and duck;
- for small breed dogs and puppies with salmon and venison;
- for older or obese dogs based on chicken and salmon.
Piccolo formulas are designed with high levels of protein specifically for toy dogs. The manufacturer believes that the main product that dogs need is meat. And he puts this concept into practice.
All series contain 75% meat ingredients: fresh boneless meat or meat flour. There is no grain in Piccolo, and the sources of carbohydrates and fiber are potatoes, peas, apples, and carrots.
The granules are flavored with natural additives: duck, chicken or salmon broths. And preserved with a natural antioxidant - a mixture of tocopherols.
The normal functioning of the immune system and gastrointestinal tract is ensured by herbal supplements: seaweed, cranberries, spinach, seeds and herbs. Fructo-oligosaccharides are also added - sources of prebiotics.
Pros:
- specialized diet for small breed dogs;
- abundance of fresh meat;
- small amount of plant components;
- Suitable for dogs from 2 months to old age;
- Natural flavors and preservatives are used.
Minuses:
- only three types;
- There are no treatment lines or varieties by age.
AATU
AATU is the brainchild of the famous pet food manufacturer in England, Pet Food UK. He also produces the super-premium Barking Heads diet.
All AATU series are mono-protein, made from one type of meat: salmon, turkey, chicken, duck. Therefore, they are suitable for an exclusion diet.
The disadvantage of the brand is the unreliable presentation of ingredients. The company uses splitting - combining several products under one name to make their quantity seem large. The composition of any AATU diet starts with a general formulation: for example, 80% salmon. And already in parentheses the decoding is stated - 44% salmon, 40% dried salmon, 1% salmon broth.
The split of components in AATU is purely a marketing ploy to attract attention. It does not affect the composition. And the last one is great: 80-85% meat, and only 15-20% plant products. The latest ones are presented:
- yam - sweet potatoes;
- legumes - chickpeas, peas;
- carrots;
- tomatoes;
- tapioca – contains little fiber and a lot of carbohydrates, is not healthy, is used as a cheap filler, thickener and binder;
- fruits and berries - apples, oranges, pears, blueberries, mulberries, cranberries, blueberries, lingonberries;
- medicinal herbs and fruits - calendula, chamomile, rose hips, seaweed, sage, etc.
The proportion of plant materials is insignificant - just enough to ensure normal intestinal function and the daily intake of carbohydrates.
All series (except the type for puppies) are enriched with glucosamine, chondroitin, and methylsulfonylmethane. Moreover, the exact content of mg per kg is indicated. This suggests that the additives were used for therapeutic and preventive purposes, and not just to attract attention.
AATU has 6 species. One of them is intended for puppies, and the rest are for adult dogs of any breed. Only the main components and, accordingly, the taste differ.
Pros:
- high proportion of meat components, incl. fresh;
- no offal, cartilage or other components with low nutritional value;
- the volume of plant products does not exceed 20%.
Minuses:
- few species;
- only 2 lines – for puppies and adults;
- split components were used.
Applaws
English food Applaws is a classic holistic food. It contains 75% meat ingredients - dehydrated chicken or lamb. And the remaining 25% is allocated to vegetables, fruits and healthy supplements.
Each Applaws line is enriched with:
- salmon oil – a source of Omega-3 and Omega-6;
- chondroitin;
- glucosamine;
- seaweed;
- medicinal herbs;
- brewer's yeast.
Applaws' division is also standard: there are foods for puppies, adults, seniors, large, medium and small breeds and for weight control. There are no specialized treatment lines.
However, Applaws are not the best choice for pooches with chicken allergies. All granules are made on its basis. Only one type for dogs of medium and small breeds has lamb added. But it is less than the volume of a chicken.
Applaws is also not outstanding in terms of herbal ingredients. It contains potato starch, beet pulp, carrots, and peas. They are not harmful, but have a high glycemic index, which can affect blood sugar levels.
There are 3 alarming components in the granules:
- bird fat - it is not clear what species of birds it is obtained from, it is inferior in usefulness to fish oil;
- cellulose fibers – coarse fiber of nebulous origin;
- poultry gravy is a flavoring additive obtained from unknown varieties of poultry.
Pros:
- large share of meat – 75%;
- the percentage of components of animal origin is clearly indicated;
- no grain;
- abundance of natural sources of vitamins and minerals.
Minuses:
- there are 3 ingredients of unknown origin;
- a lot of vegetables that affect blood sugar levels;
- not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies;
- There are additives, the benefits of which for animals are controversial - ginger, citrus extract, turmeric, paprika.
Grandorf
Grandorf labels all its food as holistic. In fact, she has series with brown or white rice. And only 2 species that really belong to this class:
- Adult All Breeds Duck & Potato Hypoallergenic Grain Free;
- Adult All Breeds Rabbit & Potato Hypoallergenic Grain Free.
But there are also shortcomings here. The name includes either a duck or a rabbit. And it also contains turkey. Considering that it is in second place in the list of ingredients, its volume is slightly less than rabbit or duck meat. After all, traditionally components are indicated by their quantity in granules - from most to least.
The manufacturer's claim of hypoallergenicity is also questionable. He relies on the fact that duck, turkey or rabbit rarely cause negative reactions. But their complete absence can be guaranteed if the meat fibers have undergone hydrolysis - a treatment in which proteins are broken down into small molecules.
Grandorf is also not suitable for an exclusion diet due to the presence of two types of meat at once. So it cannot be recommended as hypoallergenic.
Another dubious statement is 60% meat components. It is impossible to refute or confirm the fact: the manufacturer does not indicate the mass fraction of the products.
So you have to focus on the order of the names: in the top five there are 4 sources of animal proteins (dehydrated and fresh meat, fat) and one plant product - dried sweet potatoes. Judging by this parameter, the composition contains more meat components than plant components.
Grandorf contains a rare ingredient - krill. This is a natural source of Omega-3 acids. Other useful supplements:
- antioxidants;
- chicory extract;
- flax seeds;
- glucosamine;
- chondroitin.
Pros:
- 60% meat;
- used animal components that rarely cause allergies - turkey, duck, rabbit;
- added natural preservatives - tocopherol, vitamin C, rosemary.
Minuses:
- contrary to the markings on the packs, not all Grandorf food is holistic, so be careful when purchasing;
- the percentage of products is not indicated;
- a lot of potatoes - they have a high glycemic index;
- there are no specialized lines.
Read on for a detailed review of the composition of Grandorf food and reviews about it.
Primordial
Primordial is a grain-free food from the Italian company Mister Pet. The series is represented by 7 types, among which there is a brand for puppies and small breeds. The remaining varieties differ only in the types of meat.
Primordial diets consist of 35% fresh meats and 14-25% dehydrated meats. Some of the drying is made from traditional types - chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, mackerel. Other granules contain exotic ones - venison, buffalo, salmon, trout, tuna.
The proportion of meat components is clearly indicated on all series. The exception is the variety for puppies. Here is the inscription “fresh fish (35%)”. It is not clear what types of fish and parts of their carcasses were used.
Otherwise, Primordial follows the same concept as other nutraceutical foods. It contains a small proportion of vegetables, berries and fruits with a low glycemic index. The granules are supplemented with medicinal herbs, biological additives and animal fats.
The company implements a 100% natural approach in everything. She uses only natural ingredients. And when creating food, it does not conduct clinical tests on animals.
Pros:
- does not contain products that increase blood sugar levels;
- there are prebiotics that improve intestinal microflora;
- the ingredients are steamed - this way the maximum amount of vitamins and minerals is preserved and the structure of the products is not disturbed.
Minuses:
- the percentage of plant products is not indicated;
- there are vague formulations;
- few species.
Isegrim
The German company Isegrim Petfood adheres to the concept that a dog’s diet should be as similar as possible to the diet of wolves in the wild. On the main page of the site there is the inscription “92% meat and vegetables, 8% fruits, 0% grains.”
Placing meat and vegetables under the same brush is misleading. Buyers see the figure 92% and relate it to the first word – “meat”. And vegetables are overlooked.
In fact, all Isegrim granules contain 25-33% dried and 25-32% fresh meat products. There are also poultry fat (8-10%), salmon oil (2-3%) and hydrolyzed chicken liver (2%). So the share of animal protein sources is still high - 62-80%.
Plant products are standard: potatoes (up to 15%), carrots, peas, berries and medicinal herbs. So Isegrim is a typical holistic product: grain-free, with a high proportion of meat ingredients, a small amount of vegetables and fruits.
Isegrim is presented in 5 types: 4 for adult dogs and 1 for puppies and juniors. 3 types (with duck and salmon) are classified as mono-protein drying. In the rest, in addition to venison and lamb, chicken is added.
Pros:
- natural preservatives and flavors – tocopherol, hydrolyzed liver, rosemary;
- the percentage of plant and animal products is indicated;
- plenty of useful additives.
Minuses:
- few species;
- There are no specialized lines, and the only brand for puppies is not much different in composition from the other series.
ALMO NATURE (Italy)
The manufacturer strives to ensure that all ingredients have the highest biological and nutritional value. The products are completely natural and minimally processed. The manufacturer himself says that he only adds what a person would eat.
The meat is boiled in broth or in a water bath, due to which the food does not lose moisture, which is so important for the pet. The recipes do not use dehydrated meat or fish, meat or fish meal, especially food coloring, preservatives, flavor enhancers or GMOs.
Advantages:
- good vitamin and mineral base;
- natural composition;
- a large percentage of meat.
Flaws:
- general names of ingredients, no exact quantities;
- lots of vegetable protein.
In general, if you do a detailed analysis of the composition, the food can really be holistic. But the manufacturer himself did not try to convince buyers of this. There are reviews both positive and negative. Therefore, you can only understand how suitable the food is for your pet by testing.
Now Natural
Made in Canada. It has developed and produces food, which has been improving its formulas and expanding its range every day for almost three decades. The Now Fresh line lives up to its name, because the food is made using technology that allows it to be kept fresh for a long time, without using artificial and synthetic preservatives. To improve digestion, the food uses probiotics, as well as omega oils, which improve the condition of the skin and coat. No grains are used, which makes them one of the most popular among allergy sufferers. The manufacturer produces three lines of food: for all breeds, for large dogs and for small dogs. The food received very high ratings from both veterinarians and dog owners.
SUMMIT HOLISTIC (Canada)
The Canadian manufacturer uses a unique combination of high-quality ingredients that are distinguished by their natural taste, varied composition, maximum nutritional value, and are quickly and easily digestible. It contains no by-products, dyes, soy, corn, or meat raised on hormones. Main cast:
- meat (chicken, lamb, beef, salmon, turkey, duck, rabbit);
- vegetables, fruits, kelp) removes toxins, contains a lot of iron);
- linseed oil and canon oil;
- chelated minerals;
- balanced complex of Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids;
- natural antioxidants;
- cranberry for the prevention of urolithiasis;
- essential vitamins and minerals.
Each food contains several types of meat for a richer composition and a higher content of natural vitamins and amino acids. Carbohydrate sources include oatmeal, whole brown rice, rye and barley. Also contains natural amino acids, taurine, arginine, methionine.
The manufacturer uses meat raised on natural feed, performs full cleaning of workshops, and is regularly tested by an independent NSF laboratory.
How are holistic foods different from other foods?
The term “holistic” comes from the word “holism”, which means a holistic approach to the body. Despite the fact that such foods are significantly more expensive than others, it will be even more expensive for the owner to “put together” a similar menu for a dog from natural products, and if you understand the composition of the diet, it becomes clear why holistic doctors are so recommended by veterinarians and conscientious breeders.
Table. Benefits of holistic food
Advantages | Comments |
Natural ingredients “human grade” - suitable for food even for humans | Holistics use fresh meat ingredients (fish, meat, poultry), often living in free conditions, that is, without fattening with hormones, industrial feeds, and medications. Plant components are grown in the company's own fields or purchased from local farmers. In addition, such raw materials do not leave an environmental footprint, since they are not transported over long distances. |
Food Control Check | The feed is tested in laboratories, which guarantees the absence of chemicals and synthetics in the composition. Just look at the list of food ingredients - it should not contain any harmful artificial components. Manufacturers publish the full composition of all diets on official websites; you can check each component before purchasing. |
Diet typical of carnivores | The needs of animals are the main guideline for food creators. As with dogs' wild ancestors, pets are offered protein-rich diets with proteins consisting of 65% or more meat, fish or poultry. |
Good digestibility, taste benefits | Holistics are absorbed by animals by more than 95%, and also have excellent aromatic and taste characteristics without artificial enhancers. |
Dietary healthy types of protein | Food in this class is made from lamb, turkey, veal, salmon and cod fish - these ingredients themselves are very healthy for dogs. |
Natural vitamins and elements | Most of the mineral and vitamin complex in holistic medicine is obtained from natural products: vegetables, algae, fruits, plant materials. |
Short shelf life | Since rosemary and natural E and C vitamins are used as preservatives in holistic products, their shelf life does not exceed one year. Thanks to this approach, the food does not cause allergies, is easily digested and absorbed. |
Nutrition
York is a loyal friend.
The dog requires certain care: diet and diet. The initial stage (up to 1 month) is feeding with mother's milk.
Advantages:
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- The puppy’s body’s resistance to diseases;
- No disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract.
From 1 month, feeding is introduced. Use dry food or canned food.
What Yorkies need:
- A complex that contains vitamins for the formation of a beautiful and healthy coat;
- Contains calcium and phosphorus.
It is better to use food for the Yorkshire Terrier labeled “Super-premium”. They have a convenient method of administration - granules in a reduced form. Contains vitamins and microelements for the growth of your pet.
Important information for the owner: read the instructions on the back of the package. There is a table showing the required amount of food for a certain age.
Feeding rules:
- Overeating is unacceptable.
- 20 minutes is the time at which the pet should go to bed.
- Access to clean water (dry feeding).
What is not suitable for the breed: economy class food. Contains excess amounts of dyes and grains. Dogs experience allergic reactions and stomach and intestinal problems.
DUKE'S FARM (UK)
The company belongs to the Beethoven chain of Russian pet stores and is produced in England. The food belongs to the “super-premium” category. But we added it to the holistic rating because its composition fits this category perfectly, and the manufacturer itself is well known on the European market.
The first thing that makes DUKE'S FARM holistic: 50% of the composition is meat. Moreover, several types of meat are used, for example, fresh duck, duck meal, fresh trout and fresh salmon. And all this in different proportions, but in the same composition, which makes it more rich, varied and full of vitamins and minerals.
Sources of carbohydrates can be oats, barley, white rice. They are traditional beneficial supplements for digestion, skin, coat, and urinary system. The DUKE'S FARM line includes both grain food (with rice and oats) and grain-free food. It is worth saying that rice and oats are less allergenic grains, unlike other foods, and provide healthy complex carbohydrates.
Additionally included:
- nettle for digestion;
- plantain seeds for bowel function;
- cranberry for the genitourinary system;
- seaweed for better metabolism.
There are no artificial additives, dyes, preservatives, soy or other harmful substances. The full composition of nutritional supplements is indicated on the packaging, which indicates the openness of the recipe. Reviews for DUKE'S FARM are positive. Dog owners note that their pets’ digestion improves, and the excrement from the food is the same as when fed naturally.
APPLAWS (UK)
The composition of the holistic product is as close as possible to the natural diet of predators. Developed by nutrition scientists and veterinarians. For each food from the APPLAWS line, a specific balance of vitamins has been selected, taking into account the scientific basis of the animal’s needs. Excellent for growing bodies and dogs with various diseases.
The dog food is grain-free and contains 75% meat and 25% vegetables. 80% is animal protein. Due to this quantity, the food is not suitable for all dogs; stomach upset may occur. However, the manufacturer firmly believes that this composition is one of the best for domestic dogs.
Classic nutritional composition:
- dehydrated chicken, lamb, beef, trout, salmon, turkey or duck. vegetables - potatoes, green peas, tomatoes, carrots;
- egg powder as protein;
- seaweed (zinc, iron, vitamins);
- extracts of thyme, chicory, dandelion, Yucca, citrus extract;
- rosemary oil;
- turmeric, mint, alfalfa, ginger, rose hips and sweet paprika;
- pribiotics for excellent digestion.
Heat treatment is minimal, due to which all useful components are preserved. Contains no gluten, flavors or preservatives. The specific composition is written on the packaging; analysis of the granules confirms this.
And further:
Do not buy a large package of new food right away. Start with small amounts that will last 5-7 days to see how your dog's digestive system reacts to the new food. Also keep an eye on the expiration date, the tightness of the packaging (the food should always be closed), instructions on the breed and age of the animal.
Pronature
Made in Canada. It has deservedly occupied the top of the ratings for many years, thanks to its unique formulas and painstaking selection of ingredients. Well-balanced compositions and a wide range can satisfy any gourmet. The product is undoubtedly of excellent quality and has a variety of natural protein sources. The Pronature Holistic food group combines two types of nutrition: organic and natural, which are aimed at achieving the main goal - maintaining good health and harmonious development of animals.
The line consists of 5 types of food that are suitable for small dog breeds.
Wolfsblut Gray Peak Small Breed (15 kg)
German quality holistic specialist. The products of this brand include only those components that are easily absorbed by the dog’s body, without causing any digestive problems.
No wheat, oats, corn, starch or gluten. Meat makes up more than half of the food - cod, mackerel, haddock, pheasant, rabbit, trout, salmon, lamb.
pros
- Excellent balance of vitamins, minerals, healthy supplements;
- Complete absence of chemical ingredients (flavor and aroma enhancers and dyes);
- Moderate size granules;
- No noticeable odor;
- Elegant, high quality packaging;
- The company has an official website with a detailed description of the product and instructions;
- The condition of the coat improves.
Minuses
- Rarely available in pet stores;
- In isolated cases may cause constipation
Popular vote
What food would you choose or recommend?
Magnusson
8.33 % ( 2 )
APPLAWS
0.00 % ( 0 )
SUMMIT HOLISTIC
8.33 % ( 2 )
VIGOR & SAG
0.00 % ( 0 )
Wolfsblut
8.33 % ( 2 )
Canagan
8.33 % ( 2 )
Farmina N&D
12.50 % ( 3 )
Barking Heads
8.33 % ( 2 )
GRANDORF
4.17 % ( 1 )
GO! NATURAL
4.17 % ( 1 )
BELCANDO
4.17 % ( 1 )
PRO PAC
0.00 % ( 0 )
NOW
4.17 % ( 1 )
MERA
8.33 % ( 2 )
Orijen
16.67 % ( 4 )
What to look for when choosing
When choosing ready-made food, take into account the following characteristics of the dog:
- breed;
- age;
- live weight;
- production purpose: service dog or decorative;
- breeding value: does the pet participate in breeding, does it attend exhibitions;
- physiological state - pregnancy, lactation;
- whether the pet is neutered;
- whether the animal suffers from chronic diseases;
- Does the dog have a predisposition to allergies?
Not all food, even high quality food, is suitable for dogs. Therefore, you should purchase 3-4 options in small packages and give your pet the choice.
BARKING HEADS (England)
The composition of the holistic product is as close as possible to the original natural state. The ingredients are minimally processed, which ensures that all nutritional and beneficial properties are preserved. The manufacturer has provided a balanced recipe and excluded any harmful substances - soy, flavor enhancers, GMOs, dyes, preservatives and others.
Dry food BARKING HEADS consists of 45-50% meat - duck, chicken, lamb, fish. This is the main source of protein. Eggs are also added, so all the proteins are animal, not plant-based, and therefore healthier. Carbohydrate sources include potatoes, brown rice and legumes, which provide the body with complex carbohydrates and support the digestive process.
The rest of the composition is no less useful:
- barley (rich in easily excreted cleansing fiber, copper and selenium);
- healthy oils – salmon, sunflower, flaxseed;
- docosahexaenoic acid for the development of brain and visual functions;
- glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints and ligaments;
- methylsulfonylmethane for good healing and reduction of inflammatory processes;
- prebiotics for the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and boosting the immune system.
The line includes food for puppies, adult dogs and older dogs. The food is scientifically proven, highly digestible and balanced. User reviews are positive, and dogs are happy with this food.