Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Small Breed Dogs Review

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Review of Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Small Breed Dogs

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 For Small Breed Dogs 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 For Small Breed Dogs, 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

The Crude Protein minimum of 24.00% is primarily derived from the Salmon and Menhaden Fish Meal listed as the first two ingredients. Both of these ingredients are rich sources of protein, which is essential for muscle development and maintenance in dogs.

The Crude Fat minimum of 10.00% is likely contributed by several ingredients. Salmon is a fatty fish and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Menhaden Fish Meal and Menhaden Fish Oil also contribute to the fat content. Additionally, Canola Oil is included as a fat source.

The Crude Fiber maximum of 4.50% is largely due to the inclusion of Sweet Potatoes and Potatoes in the recipe. Both of these ingredients are good sources of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Flaxseed is another ingredient that contributes to the fiber content.

The Calories of 3450.00 per kg are derived from all the ingredients combined, but primarily from the protein and fat sources (Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Menhaden Fish Oil, and Canola Oil). Carbohydrates from Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, and Potatoes also contribute to the caloric content.

The inclusion of various vitamins and minerals in the ingredient list ensures a balanced nutritional profile. For example, Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, and Vitamin A Supplement contribute to the overall vitamin content, while minerals like Zinc Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, and Manganese Proteinate provide necessary minerals.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe For Small Breed Dogs costs approximately $5.08 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $31.54
10 lbs $53.05
15 lbs $71.90
20 lbs $89.21
30 lbs $120.92

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have expressed satisfaction with the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe for Small Breed Dogs, noting that their pets, including picky eaters and those with sensitive stomachs, have adjusted well and enjoy the taste. The small kibble size is appreciated, especially for older dogs with dental issues or smaller breeds.

Several reviews highlight the benefits of the limited ingredient formula for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. Pet owners have observed improvements in their dogs' digestion and coat health, and many have relied on this brand for years due to its consistent quality.

Despite some concerns about changes in kibble size and formula, many customers remain loyal to the brand. They have found that the grain-free option does not cause stomach upset, and the inclusion of sweet potato is a beneficial ingredient. The positive effects on their dogs' overall health and well-being are frequently mentioned, with many dogs showing better digestion and more enthusiasm for mealtime.

Some negative reviews mention issues with recent formula changes, including larger kibble size and different textures, which have caused discomfort for some pets. However, these concerns are not universal, and many dogs continue to thrive on this food. The brand's commitment to limited ingredients and a focus on dietary sensitivities is a recurring theme in the positive feedback from dog owners.