Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon Review

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Review of Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon

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

Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon 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 Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon, we'll examine all 46 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. 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.

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

  3. Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.

  4. 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.

  5. Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid) is a good source of monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as their overall 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. 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.

  8. Pea protein is a plant-based protein source that is often used as a supplement in dog food. It's beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or those on a plant-based diet.

  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. Freeze dried beef is a high-quality protein source that retains more of its nutritional value compared to traditional cooking methods. It provides essential amino acids and supports muscle development and maintenance.

  11. Tapioca is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy and can be easily digested by most dogs.

  12. Freeze dried beef liver is a nutrient-rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals for your dog. It contains essential amino acids, as well as high levels of vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron, which support your dog's overall health, growth, and immune function. Freeze drying preserves the nutrients in beef liver, making it a healthy and delicious treat or meal addition for your dog.

  13. Pumpkin seed is a natural source of antioxidants, beneficial oils, and fiber. It also has deworming properties.

  14. Freeze dried beef heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat packed with vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, promoting overall well-being and vitality in dogs.

  15. Dried tomato pomace is a fiber-rich ingredient derived from tomatoes, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut in dogs.

  16. Freeze dried beef kidney is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides a natural source of vitamins A and B, iron, and essential amino acids, promoting overall health in dogs.

  17. Freeze Dried Beef Spleen is an organ meat that is rich in iron and other minerals, providing a natural source of essential nutrients.

  18. Montmorillonite clay is a natural source of minerals and can help support your dog's digestive health by binding and eliminating toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.

  19. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your dog. They're rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function, and also provide fiber to aid in digestion and maintain a healthy weight.

  20. Apple is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's digestive health, immune system, and overall well-being.

  21. Cranberry is a fruit that can provide your dog with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, promoting urinary tract health and boosting their immune system.

  22. 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.

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

  24. 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.

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

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

  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. 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.

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

  31. 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.

  32. 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.

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

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

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

  36. 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.

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

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

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

  40. Ethylenediamine dihydriodide is a form of iodine used in dog foods. Iodine is crucial for your dog's thyroid health, which regulates metabolism and energy.

  41. Freeze dried cod is a high-quality source of protein that supports muscle development and provides omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. The freeze-drying process retains the nutritional content while providing convenience and a longer shelf life.

  42. Dried kelp is a natural source of essential minerals and trace elements, which help support your dog's thyroid function and overall health.

  43. 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.

  44. Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  45. Dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that supports your dog's digestive and immune health. This beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy balance of microflora in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, promoting regular digestion and overall wellbeing.

  46. 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.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The crude protein content of 37.50% is primarily attributed to the first few ingredients listed, which are high in protein. Salmon, white fish meal, menhaden fish meal, herring meal, and pea protein are all significant sources of protein. These ingredients are animal-based proteins, which are complete proteins containing all the essential amino acids that pets need. The presence of multiple fish meals indicates a concentrated source of protein, as meals are rendered and contain less water than whole meats.

The crude fat minimum of 21.50% is likely due to the inclusion of fatty fish like salmon, as well as the canola oil, salmon oil, and the fats naturally present in the freeze-dried beef components. Fish are known for having high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to the overall fat content. Canola oil and salmon oil are added as additional sources of fat, which not only provide energy but also support a healthy coat and skin.

Crude fiber at a maximum of 4.50% is relatively moderate, indicating the food is not overly high in indigestible plant matter. Ingredients such as peas, chickpeas, carrots, apples, and cranberries contribute dietary fiber to the pet food. Fiber is essential for digestive health, but excessive amounts can reduce the food's overall digestibility.

Lastly, the caloric content of 4583.00 kcal/kg is a measure of the energy provided by the food. This is influenced by the combined macronutrients: protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Given the high protein and fat levels, it's clear that this food is energy-dense, which is typical for a grain-free, high-protein diet. The carbohydrates present in peas, chickpeas, and tapioca also contribute to the calorie content, although to a lesser extent than fats and proteins.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon costs approximately $7.50 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $22.43$35.05
10 lbs $37.72$58.94
15 lbs $51.13$79.89
20 lbs $63.44$99.13
30 lbs $85.99$134.36
40 lbs $106.70$166.72
50 lbs $126.14$197.09
60 lbs $144.62$225.97
70 lbs $162.35$253.67
80 lbs $179.45$280.39
90 lbs $196.02$306.28
100 lbs $212.14$331.47

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Many customers have praised Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe With Real Salmon for its high-quality ingredients and the health benefits it provides to their dogs. They have reported improvements in their dogs' coat, skin, and overall energy levels. The inclusion of freeze-dried raw pieces is a highlight for many, as it seems to entice even picky eaters.

Some dogs with sensitivities or allergies have thrived on this food, with owners noting a reduction in itching and other allergic reactions. The salmon flavor, in particular, is often mentioned as a favorite among pets. The Omega-3 content from the salmon is appreciated for its positive impact on skin and hair health.

A few reviews have mentioned a change in the product's appearance and a decrease in the number of freeze-dried pieces, which has led to some disappointment. However, these concerns are balanced by the numerous positive experiences of other pet owners. Some dogs may have had digestive issues or adverse reactions to the food, but these instances seem to be individual cases rather than a common experience. Overall, the brand has a strong following of loyal customers who trust the nutritional value it offers to their pets.