Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe Review

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Review of Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe

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

Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry 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 Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe, we'll examine all 51 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. Lamb is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids necessary for your dog's muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. It's also a good option for dogs with sensitivities to other protein sources, such as chicken or beef.

  2. Dehydrated lamb is a high-quality protein source for dogs, made by removing moisture from lamb meat. It provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to support muscle growth, maintenance, and overall health.

  3. Whole spelt is a nutritious whole grain that provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

  4. Whole oats are a nutritious and easily digestible grain that provides essential nutrients, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, to support your dog's overall health and digestion.

  5. Chicken fat is a highly palatable source of energy, providing essential fatty acids for a healthy skin and coat, as well as supporting your dog's immune system.

  6. 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.

  7. Dehydrated herring is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids to support your dog's muscle growth and overall health.

  8. Dried whole egg is a highly digestible source of protein for dogs, and it also provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

  9. Dried Beet Pulp is a source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health and provides energy for dogs.

  10. Herring oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy skin and coat, support brain function, and contribute to overall heart health in your dog.

  11. Dried carrot is a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog's immune system, vision, and overall health. This ingredient is also high in dietary fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight.

  12. 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.

  13. Chicken cartilage is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are beneficial for joint health.

  14. Inulin is a natural prebiotic fiber that supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut, promoting digestive health and overall immune function.

  15. 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.

  16. Yeast extract is a natural source of high-quality protein, B vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog's muscle development, energy levels, and overall health. It can also help enhance the flavor of dog food, making it more palatable for your pet.

  17. 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.

  18. Dried spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall wellness.

  19. Psyllium seed husk is a natural source of soluble fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and maintain regular bowel movements. It can also help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating.

  20. Dried apple is a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and overall well-being. It also provides a natural sweetness that dogs enjoy.

  21. Dried Sweet Orange is a source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, promoting a healthy immune system.

  22. Dried pomegranate is a nutrient-dense fruit that provides your dog with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Antioxidants help combat free radicals and oxidative stress, promoting a strong immune system and overall health.

  23. 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.

  24. Dried brewers yeast is a natural source of B vitamins and amino acids, which can help support your dog's skin, coat, and overall health.

  25. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spice that can help support your dog's joint health, immune system, and overall well-being.

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

  27. 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.

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

  29. Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is an essential antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system and helps reduce inflammation.

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

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

  32. Riboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is essential for energy production, cell function, and fat metabolism in your dog's body.

  33. 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.

  34. Thiamine hydrochloride, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient that supports your dog's nervous system, metabolism, and energy production. It's important for maintaining overall health and well-being in dogs.

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

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

  39. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system and overall well-being. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and vision, making it an essential ingredient for your dog's diet.

  40. Zinc methionine hydroxy analogue chelate is a highly bioavailable form of zinc, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and proper metabolic function.

  41. Manganese methionine hydroxy analogue chelate is a highly bioavailable form of manganese that supports your dog's bone and joint health, enzyme function, and overall well-being.

  42. Ferrous glycine is a highly bioavailable form of iron, an essential mineral that supports your dog's immune system, energy production, and red blood cell function. This ingredient contributes to overall health and vitality in your canine companion.

  43. Copper methionine hydroxy analogue chelate is a highly bioavailable source of copper, which is important for various bodily functions including iron absorption, brain development, and immune function.

  44. Selenium yeast is a natural source of the mineral selenium which supports immune function and provides antioxidant benefits.

  45. 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.

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

  47. 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.

  48. Aloe vera gel concentrate can provide digestive support and promote skin health in dogs.

  49. Green tea extract contains antioxidants that help protect your dog's cells from damage and support overall health.

  50. 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.

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

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein minimum of 30.00% in this pet food is a significant amount, indicating it is formulated to meet the dietary requirements of growing puppies who need ample protein for muscle development and overall growth. The primary contributors to this protein content are the lamb, dehydrated lamb, and dehydrated herring. These are all high-quality sources of animal protein. Secondary contributors may include the dried whole eggs and the herring itself. The inclusion of chicken cartilage, while not a significant source of protein, may also contribute a small amount, along with providing glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.

The Crude Fat minimum of 20.00% is also substantial, reflecting the energy needs of puppies. The main ingredients contributing to this fat content are the chicken fat, herring oil, and to some extent, the fats inherent in the lamb and herring. Chicken fat is a high-quality source of essential fatty acids and energy. Herring oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the development of the brain and vision, as well as for skin and coat health.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 2.50% indicates a moderate level of fiber, which is important for digestive health. The ingredients contributing to this fiber content include whole spelt and whole oats, both of which are grains that provide a source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Additionally, dried beet pulp is a common fiber source in pet foods and contributes to the overall fiber content. Suncured alfalfa meal, psyllium seed husk, and the various dried fruits and vegetables such as carrot, blueberry, spinach, apple, and orange also provide dietary fiber, albeit in smaller amounts compared to the primary grain sources.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Puppy Lamb, Spelt, Oats and Blueberry Recipe costs approximately $3.82 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppy

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate the high-quality ingredients in Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Puppy Lamb Recipe, noting the absence of pea protein and meat by-products, which they believe contributes to their dogs' health. Positive experiences include improved coat condition, better digestion, and increased energy levels in puppies.

While some dogs did not favor the lamb flavor, preferring other varieties like the fish-based recipe, others thrived on it, showing enthusiasm during meal times. The ancestral grains are seen as a healthy alternative to fillers, and many pets have shown no digestive issues while on this diet.

Despite some negative experiences with digestive upsets such as diarrhea and gas, these appear to be isolated cases, and many customers have successfully transitioned their pets to Farmina N&D without any problems. Some reviews suggest that the recent changes in the formula may have affected palatability and digestibility for some dogs, but overall, the brand still receives praise for its nutritional value and ingredient quality.

Customers also noted the larger kibble size, which may not be suitable for all dogs, particularly smaller breeds or very young puppies. However, for those seeking a grain-inclusive option with high protein content, Farmina N&D is often recommended and has been reported to result in less gassiness and more regular bowel movements compared to other brands.

In summary, while individual experiences vary, the majority of reviews for Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Puppy Lamb Recipe are positive, with pet owners reporting that their dogs enjoy the food and exhibit signs of good health while on this diet.