Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe For Dogs Review

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Review of Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe For Dogs

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

Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe For Dogs 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 Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe For Dogs, we'll examine all 40 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. Herring is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids support a healthy skin and coat, reduce inflammation, and promote optimal brain function and overall health in dogs.

  2. Mackerel is a nutritious fish that provides a high-quality source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals for your dog. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.

  3. Whitefish is a lean, easily digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients for your dog. It supports muscle development, a healthy coat, and overall wellness.

  4. 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.

  5. Whitefish meal is a highly digestible protein source that also provides essential omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.

  6. Herring meal is a high-quality, concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids derived from herring fish. The omega-3 fatty acids found in herring meal can support your dog's skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and promote cognitive function. As a protein source, herring meal helps build and maintain strong muscles and supports overall growth and development.

  7. Red lentils are a nutrient-dense legume providing a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals, promoting healthy digestion and overall wellness in dogs.

  8. 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.

  9. Green lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, supporting digestion and providing essential amino acids.

  10. Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help improve your dog's skin and coat health, as well as support heart and brain function.

  11. Navy beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, folate, and manganese, which can support your dog's overall health and digestion.

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

  14. Coconut flour is a high-fiber, grain-free alternative to traditional flours, promoting healthy digestion and providing a source of energy for your dog.

  15. Salmon oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, immune system, and cognitive function.

  16. Trout is a high-quality protein source that also provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health.

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

  18. Pumpkin is a nutritious and fiber-rich ingredient that can help support your dog's digestive health. Its high fiber content can aid in maintaining a healthy weight and promoting regular bowel movements.

  19. 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.

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

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

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

  23. 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.

  24. Green lipped mussel is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can support joint health and reduce inflammation in dogs. It may also benefit dogs suffering from arthritis or other joint-related issues, promoting improved mobility and comfort.

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

  26. Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant that can help protect your dog's body from the harmful effects of free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can support your dog's overall health and well-being, particularly in regard to joint health.

  27. Chia seed oil is a natural source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help to support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as overall immune system function.

  28. L-carnitine is an essential nutrient that helps your dog's body convert fat into energy, promoting a healthy weight and supporting their overall well-being.

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

  30. Magnesium Proteinate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium which supports muscle and nerve function in dogs.

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

  32. 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.

  33. Vitamin B5 supplement, also known as pantothenic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in your dog's metabolism, energy production, and the synthesis of fatty acids, proteins, and carbohydrates.

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

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

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

  37. 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.

  38. 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.

  39. 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.

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

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 38.00% is quite high, indicating that this dog food is protein-rich. The primary contributors to this value are the animal-based ingredients listed at the beginning of the ingredient list: herring, mackerel, whitefish, catfish meal, whitefish meal, and herring meal. These fish ingredients are typically high in protein, which is essential for a dog's muscle development and overall health. Meals, in particular, are concentrated sources of protein because they are rendered and have much of the moisture removed.

Crude Fat minimum of 16.00% is a moderate amount, providing essential fatty acids and energy for dogs. The sources of fat in this food are likely the fish ingredients (herring, mackerel, whitefish, etc.) as they naturally contain oils, as well as added fats like olive oil, salmon oil, and chia oil. These oils not only contribute to the fat content but also provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a dog's skin and coat health.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 5.50% is a moderate level, which is important for digestive health. Fiber can come from ingredients such as red lentils, chickpeas, green lentils, navy beans, and coconut flour. These plant-based ingredients provide dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity.

Calories of 3810.00 per kg indicate the energy content of the food. This energy comes from the macronutrients in the food: protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Given that fats provide more calories per gram than proteins or carbohydrates, the added oils like olive oil and salmon oil, along with the fat content from the fish, are significant contributors to the caloric content. The legumes and beans in the ingredient list also contribute calories in the form of complex carbohydrates.

Overall, this dog food formula appears to be designed to provide a high-protein, moderate-fat diet with a controlled fiber content, using primarily fish and legume sources to achieve these nutritional goals.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe For Dogs costs approximately $4.57 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $16.43$25.67
10 lbs $27.63$43.18
15 lbs $37.45$58.52
20 lbs $46.47$72.61
30 lbs $62.99$98.42
40 lbs $78.16$122.12
50 lbs $92.40$144.37
60 lbs $105.93$165.52
70 lbs $118.92$185.81
80 lbs $131.44$205.38
90 lbs $143.58$224.35
100 lbs $155.39$242.80

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers are highly satisfied with the quality of Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe For Dogs, noting that their dogs are very eager to eat and show excitement at mealtime. One owner mentioned that their dog, who previously suffered from itchy skin, has experienced relief since switching to this food.

Several pet parents have praised the food for being well-received by their dogs, including those with picky eaters or dietary restrictions. The variety of flavors offered by Essence, including the ocean and freshwater dry food, has been a hit with their canine companions.

In terms of health benefits, a number of reviews highlight significant improvements in their dogs' conditions. For example, one owner reported that their dog's constant scratching ceased after transitioning to Essence, while another noted the resolution of digestive issues and allergies in their sensitive-stomached pet.

Even for older dogs and those with specific protein allergies, this food has been beneficial, providing a clean source of protein and accommodating dietary needs. Owners appreciate the legume content and the variety of fish in the recipe, which has contributed to better overall health as observed by their veterinarians.

While there was a mention of a dog not taking to the food, this seems to be an isolated case amidst a sea of positive feedback. The majority of reviews suggest that Essence Original Ocean & Freshwater Recipe is a reliable and tasty choice for dogs, particularly for those with sensitivities or specific dietary requirements.