Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Review

Compare Prices To Find The Lowest Price
24.98 + Shipping ($4.95)
$16.24 First Auto-Ship Order
Free 1-3 Day Shipping Orders $49+
35% Off First Auto-Ship
24.98 + Shipping ($5.95)
$19.98 w/ code PawDiet20
20% Off First AutoShip
Use Code: PawDiet20
47.98 + Shipping ($4.95)
$31.19 First Auto-Ship Order
Free 1-3 Day Shipping Orders $49+
35% Off First Auto-Ship
47.98 + Shipping ($5.95)
$38.38 w/ code PawDiet20
20% Off First AutoShip
Use Code: PawDiet20
72.98 + Shipping (Free)
$47.44 First Auto-Ship Order
Free 1-3 Day Shipping Orders $49+
35% Off First Auto-Ship
72.98 + Shipping (Free)
$58.38 w/ code PawDiet20
20% Off First AutoShip
Use Code: PawDiet20

PawDiet has been helping pet owners since 2015. To fund our efforts, articles may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission.


Review of Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe

According to our data, this Natural Balance recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult dogs. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult dogs.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe, we'll examine all 42 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. 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.

  3. Sweet potato is a highly nutritious and easily digestible source of complex carbohydrates for your dog. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system and immune function.

  4. Tapioca starch is a grain-free carbohydrate source derived from the root of the cassava plant. It is used in dog food as a binding agent and energy source. Tapioca starch is easily digestible, making it a suitable ingredient for dogs with sensitive stomachs or grain allergies.

  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. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. Potato protein is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids necessary for your dog's muscle development and maintenance.

  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. Flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients, which can support your dog's skin, coat, and digestive health.

  11. Menhaden fish oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall heart health in dogs.

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

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

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

  18. 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.

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

  20. Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a synthetic form of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in blood clotting and bone metabolism for your dog's overall health.

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

  22. 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.

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

  24. 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.

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

  26. 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.

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

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

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

  30. 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.

  31. 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.

  32. 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.

  33. 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.

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

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

  36. 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.

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

  38. 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.

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

  40. 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.

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

  42. 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

Crude Protein (min) of 24.00%: The primary source of protein in this pet food is from the Salmon and Menhaden Fish Meal. These are the first two ingredients listed, indicating they are the most abundant. The Potato Protein also contributes to the protein content.

Crude Fat (min) of 10.00%: The fat content is likely to come from the Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, and Menhaden Fish Oil. These ingredients are rich in healthy fats. The Canola Oil also contributes to the fat content.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.50%: The fiber content is primarily from the Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, and Flaxseed. These ingredients are known for their high fiber content, which is essential for digestive health.

Calories of 3450.00 per kg: The caloric content of the food comes from all the ingredients, with the most calorically dense being the Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, and Canola Oil. These ingredients provide the energy your pet needs for their daily activities.

The vitamins and minerals listed are added to ensure a balanced diet. For example, Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid are antioxidants, while Niacin, Thiamine, Riboflavin, and Vitamin B12 are essential for metabolic processes. The minerals, such as Zinc, Iron, Copper, and Manganese, are important for various bodily functions, including immune function and bone health.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe costs approximately $3.69 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $22.94
10 lbs $38.58
15 lbs $52.29
20 lbs $64.88
30 lbs $87.94
40 lbs $109.12
50 lbs $129.00
60 lbs $147.90
70 lbs $166.03
80 lbs $183.52
90 lbs $200.47
100 lbs $216.95

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers are generally pleased with the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe for dogs with dietary restrictions. Many have noted improvements in their pets' health after switching to this food, citing better digestion and relief from allergies. The absence of chicken and limited ingredients are particularly valued by owners of dogs with sensitivities.

Several reviews highlight the positive impact on dogs' skin and coat health, with reports of shinier coats and reduced itching. The salmon and sweet potato combination is often mentioned as a beneficial formula that dogs enjoy. Furthermore, the food is praised for its high quality and the fact that it doesn't contain common allergens like grains and legumes.

On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions issues with the kibble size, smell, and palatability for some pets. However, these seem to be individual concerns rather than widespread problems. In cases where dogs did not prefer the flavor or had digestive issues, owners have noted the value of the brand's variety, allowing them to switch to other flavors or protein sources within the same high-quality product line.

It's also worth noting that some dogs experienced improved gastrointestinal health, with reports of normalized stools and less frequent digestive upsets. Owners of dogs with chronic health issues have found this food to be a successful part of their pets' dietary management.

In response to concerns about changes in the food's formula or packaging, it appears that while some dogs may have had adverse reactions, many continue to thrive on this diet. The brand's commitment to limited ingredients and catering to dogs with food sensitivities remains a strong selling point for most customers.