American Journey Grain-Free Premium Loaf Beef & Chicken Recipe Review

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Review of American Journey Grain-Free Premium Loaf Beef & Chicken Recipe

According to our data, this American Journey recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for all life stages. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

American Journey Grain-Free Premium Loaf Beef & Chicken Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of American Journey Grain-Free Premium Loaf Beef & Chicken Recipe, 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. Beef is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog's muscle development and overall health.

  2. Chicken is a lean, easily digestible source of protein that provides essential nutrients for your dog's growth and maintenance. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

  3. Beef broth is a flavorful and hydrating ingredient that adds moisture to your dog's food, making it more appealing and easier to digest. It also provides essential nutrients and can help support overall health and well-being.

  4. Chicken liver is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides your dog with protein, fat, and vitamin A. It's also a great source of iron, copper, niacin, zinc, and phosphorus.

  5. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals for dogs, and are also high in fiber which can help keep your dog's digestive system running smoothly.

  6. Chicken Heart is rich in taurine and other essential nutrients that support your dog's heart health.

  7. Flaxseed meal is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as their immune and cognitive function.

  8. Sunflower oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that promotes a healthy coat and skin.

  9. 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.

  10. Guar gum is a natural thickening agent derived from the guar bean, used to improve the texture of your dog's food. It also serves as a source of soluble fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and support overall gastrointestinal health.

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

  12. 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.

  13. Cassia gum is a natural thickening and gelling agent derived from the seeds of the Cassia plant. It helps improve the texture of dog food, making it more appealing to your pet. It is also a source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and overall gastrointestinal health.

  14. Xanthan gum is a natural thickening agent used in dog food to improve its texture and consistency. While it doesn't provide direct nutritional benefits, it can make the food more palatable and appealing for your dog.

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

  16. 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.

  17. Copper Proteinate is a chelated form of copper that's easier for dogs to absorb, aiding in red blood cell formation and iron absorption.

  18. Cobalt proteinate is an organic form of cobalt, an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in the production of vitamin B12, which supports your dog's metabolism and overall health.

  19. Manganese Proteinate is a chelated form of manganese, a mineral that supports bone health, metabolism and enzymatic reactions.

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

  21. 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.

  22. Fish oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of omega-3 fatty acids which support heart health, joint function, and skin and coat health.

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

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

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

  26. Niacin supplement is an important source of vitamin B3, which plays a crucial role in supporting your dog's energy metabolism, nervous system function, and overall health. It also aids in maintaining healthy skin and coat, as well as promoting proper digestion.

  27. D-Calcium Pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid, a B-vitamin that helps in energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.

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

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

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

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

  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. 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.

  34. 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.

  35. Yucca schidigera extract is a natural ingredient known for its ability to reduce unpleasant odors in your dog's waste. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support joint health and overall well-being.

  36. Magnesium Sulfate is a source of magnesium, necessary for many biochemical reactions in your dog's body, including protein synthesis and nerve function.

  37. Tricalcium phosphate is used as a calcium supplement in dog foods, contributing to strong teeth and bones.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The crude protein minimum of 9.00% is likely contributed primarily by the beef and chicken, which are the first two ingredients listed and are known to be high-quality sources of protein. The chicken liver also adds to the protein content, as well as providing various vitamins and minerals.

For the crude fat minimum of 6.00%, the beef and chicken again are significant contributors, as both meats contain natural fats. Additionally, flaxseed, sunflower oil, and fish oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) are likely contributors to the fat content. These ingredients not only provide essential fatty acids but also help with the overall palatability of the food.

The crude fiber maximum of 1.50% is relatively low, indicating that this is a meat-rich pet food with less emphasis on plant-based fibers. Potatoes, while serving as a carbohydrate source, may contribute a small amount to the fiber content. The guar gum, cassia gum, and xanthan gum are included as thickeners and stabilizers but may also contribute slightly to the fiber content, although their primary purpose is not to provide fiber.

The calorie content of 1186.00 per kg is a result of the combined macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the food. The meats provide the protein and some fat, the added oils increase the fat content, and the potatoes provide carbohydrates. All of these contribute to the overall caloric value of the pet food.

The remaining ingredients, including the various gums, salts, and supplements, are present in smaller quantities and are there to ensure the food is nutritionally complete, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. They do not contribute significantly to the macronutrient guaranteed analysis values but are important for the overall health and well-being of the pet.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, American Journey Grain-Free Premium Loaf Beef & Chicken Recipe costs approximately $3.54 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $40.88$63.87
10 lbs $68.75$107.42
15 lbs $93.19$145.60
20 lbs $115.63$180.67
30 lbs $156.72$244.87
40 lbs $194.46$303.84
50 lbs $229.89$359.20
60 lbs $263.57$411.83
70 lbs $295.87$462.30
80 lbs $327.04$511.00
90 lbs $357.24$558.19
100 lbs $386.62$604.09

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers generally appreciate the high-quality ingredients in American Journey Grain-Free Premium Loaf Beef & Chicken Recipe, noting that the first several ingredients are meat-based, which is not always the case with other brands. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eating habits have had positive experiences, with many pet owners observing that their dogs eagerly eat this food and exhibit improved coat health.

Several pet owners have creatively used the canned dog food as nutritious treats by refrigerating and cutting it into strips, highlighting its versatility. The grain-free aspect of the food is also a plus for many, with some customers choosing it specifically for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.

While a few dogs may not have taken to the taste or texture immediately, many pet owners report that their dogs, even those that are finicky or have dietary restrictions, enjoy the beef and chicken flavors. The food has also been helpful for pet owners needing to administer medications to their dogs, as the consistency allows for easy mixing without a mess.

Despite some negative experiences, the overall sentiment is that American Journey's canned dog food is a hit with dogs, offering a palatable and healthy option that is often preferred over other brands. Pet owners have expressed satisfaction with the product's quality and value, with many intending to continue purchasing it for their canine companions.