Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley Review

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Review of Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley

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

Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley 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 Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley, we'll examine all 52 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. Catfish meal is a concentrated protein source that provides essential nutrients for your dog's overall health. It supports muscle growth, organ function, and immune system health, making it a valuable addition to your dog's diet.

  2. Pearled barley is a wholesome, easily digestible grain that provides dogs with a source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

  3. Oat groats provide a wholesome source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to healthy digestion and overall well-being in your dog.

  4. Millet is a gluten-free grain that provides essential nutrients like magnesium, copper, and phosphorus, promoting your dog's heart health and bone health.

  5. Ground grain sorghum is a gluten-free, whole-grain ingredient that provides a source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and sustained energy levels for your dog.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. Dried plain beet pulp is a source of dietary fiber that can help support your dog's digestive health, promote regular bowel movements, and aid in nutrient absorption.

  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. Lecithin is a naturally occurring fatty substance that can help support your dog's overall health. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cell membrane integrity and provides essential fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, lecithin aids in fat digestion and absorption, promoting optimal nutrient utilization.

  11. Whole ground flaxseed is an excellent source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant-based protein. It promotes a healthy skin and coat, supports digestion, and contributes to overall immune health.

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

  14. L-lysine is an essential amino acid that helps support a healthy immune system and aids in the production of enzymes and antibodies.

  15. 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.

  16. Dicalcium phosphate is a calcium and phosphorus supplement that helps to support the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth in dogs.

  17. Calcium carbonate is a valuable source of calcium, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth, and for supporting proper muscle function in your dog.

  18. Dried cranberry is a natural source of antioxidants and dietary fiber, which can help support your dog's digestive health and urinary tract health.

  19. Dried blueberries are a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support your dog's immune system, eye health, and overall well-being. This ingredient adds a burst of flavor and color to your dog's food, making it more enjoyable and nutritious.

  20. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a type of prebiotic fiber that can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria in your dog. They may help support your dog's digestive and immune health.

  21. 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.

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

  23. 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.

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

  25. 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.

  26. Dried seaweed meal is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can support your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

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

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

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

  31. Vitamin A acetate is a form of vitamin A, which is essential for your dog's overall health. It supports healthy vision, immune function, and proper growth and development. Vitamin A acetate also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and coat, ensuring your dog looks and feels its best.

  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. Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of dog food. It also acts as an antioxidant, which can help protect your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

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

  36. 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.

  37. 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.

  38. 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.

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

  40. 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.

  41. 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.

  42. Zinc Oxide is a source of zinc, an essential mineral that supports immune function and skin health in dogs.

  43. 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.

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

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

  46. Manganous oxide is an important trace mineral that helps support your dog's metabolism, bone formation, and nerve function.

  47. Calcium iodate is a source of iodine, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's thyroid function and overall metabolism. It helps maintain proper hormone production and is crucial for overall health and well-being.

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

  49. 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.

  50. 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.

  51. 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.

  52. Dried lactobacillus reuteri fermentation product is a probiotic that helps support your dog's digestive health by maintaining a balanced gut flora. It can also promote a healthy immune system and may help alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or constipation.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The guaranteed analysis for Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley provides a snapshot of the product's nutrient profile.

1. Crude Protein (min) of 23.00%: This value indicates the minimum amount of protein in the product. The primary source of protein in this food is the Catfish Meal, which is the first ingredient listed. Other sources of protein include Menhaden Fish Meal and the various amino acids listed, such as L-Lysine and DL-Methionine.

2. Crude Fat (min) of 12.00%: This is the minimum amount of fat in the product. The primary sources of fat in this food are likely the Canola Oil and the Whole Ground Flaxseed. Fat is essential for energy and the absorption of certain vitamins.

3. Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: This is the maximum amount of fiber in the product. The primary sources of fiber in this food are likely the Pearled Barley, Oat Groats, Millet, Ground Grain Sorghum, and Dried Plain Beet Pulp. Fiber is important for digestive health.

4. Calories of 3490.00 per kg: This is the energy content of the food. All the ingredients contribute to this value, but the main contributors are typically the primary ingredients (Catfish Meal, Pearled Barley) and the fat sources (Canola Oil, Whole Ground Flaxseed).

The remaining ingredients listed, such as the vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, contribute to the overall nutrition of the product but are not part of the guaranteed analysis values. These ingredients are important for maintaining your pet's health, including supporting a strong immune system, promoting a healthy coat, and supporting digestive health.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley costs approximately $2.52 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $9.90$15.47
10 lbs $16.65$26.01
15 lbs $22.56$35.25
20 lbs $28.00$43.74
30 lbs $37.95$59.29
40 lbs $47.08$73.57
50 lbs $55.66$86.97
60 lbs $63.82$99.72
70 lbs $71.64$111.94
80 lbs $79.19$123.73
90 lbs $86.50$135.15
100 lbs $93.61$146.27

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Many customers have found the Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley to be beneficial for their dogs with food sensitivities and allergies. Several reviews mentioned that the food had helped with itchy skin and stomach issues. Dogs with a variety of allergies seemed to react well to this food, and many owners reported their dogs loved the taste.

However, some customers reported their dogs experienced gas and loose stools after consuming this food. It's possible that these issues may be related to the transition from their previous diet, as dietary changes can sometimes cause temporary digestive issues. It's always recommended to introduce new foods gradually to allow your pet's digestive system to adjust.

There were also numerous positive reviews about the quality of the ingredients in the Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley. Many customers appreciated that it was an "All Life Stages" food, suitable for both adult dogs and puppies. Some also mentioned that their dogs' coat and skin condition improved after switching to this food.

However, some customers expressed dissatisfaction with the price increases of this product. While they acknowledged the high quality of the food, the price hikes made it less affordable for some pet owners.

Despite some dogs experiencing gas, many customers reported that their dogs had a positive reaction to this food. Dogs with sensitive stomachs seemed to do well on this diet, and some owners even reported a decrease in their dogs' IBS symptoms.

A few customers mentioned that their dogs were initially hesitant to try this food, but eventually warmed up to it. This could be due to the unique catfish flavor, which might be a new taste for some dogs.

Overall, the Blackwood 5000 All Life Stages Special Diet - Catfish Meal & Pearled Barley appears to be a high-quality food that is particularly beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies. However, like any food, individual dogs' reactions may vary, and it's always important to monitor your pet's response when introducing a new diet.