Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula For Senior Dogs (Adult 7+) Review

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Review of Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula For Senior Dogs (Adult 7+)

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

Unlike other AAFCO approved dog foods which rely in laboratory testing to substantiate nutritional adequacy, this recipe has undergone feeding trials. In the pet food industry, feeding trials are often considered to be the superior testing method.

Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula For Senior Dogs (Adult 7+) provides complete and balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult dogs.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula For Senior Dogs (Adult 7+), 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. Chicken is a lean, easily digestible source of protein that provides essential nutrients for your dog's growth and maintenance. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

  2. Rice is a carbohydrate source that is easy to digest and provides quick energy for dogs. It can also serve as a dietary fiber, supporting gut health.

  3. Poultry by-product meal is a high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle development and overall health.

  4. Soybean meal is a plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle growth and overall health, while also being highly digestible.

  5. Corn gluten meal is a by-product of corn processing that serves as an alternative protein source for dogs. It is rich in essential amino acids, and it can also provide energy and support healthy skin and coat for your pet.

  6. Whole grain corn is a wholesome carbohydrate source that provides your dog with the energy they need to stay active and healthy, while also delivering essential nutrients.

  7. Whole grain wheat is a source of wholesome fiber, promoting good digestive health, and it also provides essential nutrients like protein and B vitamins.

  8. Beef Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of energy and fat-soluble vitamins, and tocopherols help keep the fat fresh and rancid-free.

  9. Corn germ meal is a source of protein and energy, providing essential fatty acids and fiber to support your dog's digestion and overall health.

  10. Barley is a nutritious, fiber-rich grain that helps promote healthy digestion and provides essential nutrients for your dog's overall health. It is also a great source of energy, vitamins, and minerals.

  11. Dried egg product is a highly digestible source of protein that can help to build and maintain your dog's muscle tissue.

  12. Fish meal is a highly digestible protein source for dogs, providing essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients. It supports skin and coat health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

  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. Glycerin is a natural ingredient used as a humectant to help maintain the moisture content of dog food, keeping it fresh and palatable.

  15. Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining a healthy skin and coat, supporting brain function, and promoting overall immune system health in dogs.

  16. Wheat bran is a high-fiber ingredient that can help support healthy digestion and maintain regular bowel movements in dogs. It also provides essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health and well-being.

  17. Calcium carbonate is a valuable source of calcium, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth, and for supporting proper muscle function in your dog.

  18. Soybean oil is a plant-based source of healthy fats in dog food. Rich in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, soybean oil helps support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as their immune system. It also provides energy for active dogs and assists in nutrient absorption.

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

  21. Monocalcium phosphate is a source of calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals that help support your dog's healthy bones, teeth, and overall growth. It also aids in proper nerve function and energy metabolism.

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

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

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

  25. 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.

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

  27. 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  36. 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.

  37. 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.

  38. 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.

  39. 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.

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

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

  42. 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.

  43. 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.

  44. 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.

  45. L-lysine monohydrochloride is an essential amino acid that is crucial for protein synthesis, tissue repair, and the production of antibodies. It's a beneficial supplement that supports your dog's overall health.

  46. Garlic oil contains natural compounds that can help support your dog's immune system and may act as a natural flea and tick repellent.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The guaranteed analysis of the Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula for Senior Dogs (Adult 7+) indicates the minimum and maximum values of nutrients that are essential for your dog's health.

1. Crude Protein (min) of 29.00%: The main contributors to the protein content in this pet food are the chicken, poultry by-product meal, soybean meal, corn gluten meal, and fish meal. These ingredients are rich in proteins which are essential for muscle growth and repair.

2. Crude Fat (min) of 14.00%: The fat content in this pet food is primarily provided by the beef fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols, fish oil, and soybean oil. Fats are essential for providing energy, supporting cell growth, and protecting the body's organs.

3. Crude Fiber (max) of 3.00%: The fiber content in this pet food is likely provided by the whole grain corn, whole grain wheat, barley, and wheat bran. Dietary fiber can help to regulate your dog's digestive system and keep them feeling full.

4. Calories of 3672.00 per kg: The caloric content of this pet food is a result of the combined ingredients, with major contributors likely being the protein and fat sources (chicken, beef fat, fish oil) and the carbohydrate sources (rice, whole grain corn, whole grain wheat, barley).

The minerals and vitamins listed in the ingredients are added to ensure the pet food provides complete and balanced nutrition for your senior dog. For instance, calcium is important for bone health, zinc and Vitamin A support the immune system, and Vitamin B complex is essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function. The added L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate is a source of Vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps protect the body's cells from damage.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula For Senior Dogs (Adult 7+) costs approximately $2.57 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $15.02
10 lbs $25.26
15 lbs $34.23
20 lbs $42.48
30 lbs $57.57
40 lbs $71.44
50 lbs $84.45
60 lbs $96.83
70 lbs $108.69
80 lbs $120.14
90 lbs $131.24
100 lbs $142.03

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers love Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula for Senior Dogs. Many have reported that their dogs, some of whom are notoriously picky eaters, absolutely love this food. They have noticed their dogs becoming more active and playful after switching to this food. Some customers have even reported their dogs' coats becoming shinier and their stools better formed, indicating good digestion.

While some customers have expressed concerns about the kibble size being too small, others believe it's perfectly sized for their senior dogs who may have dental issues. Customers have also appreciated the inclusion of real chicken in the blend, which seems to enhance the taste for their pets.

There are a few customers who reported their dogs not liking the food or experiencing digestive issues, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. Some customers have suggested trying a smaller bag first if you have a particularly picky eater.

Despite some negative reviews, many customers have reported that their dogs' health improved significantly after switching to this food. They've noticed increased energy levels, better digestion, and overall happier and healthier dogs. Some have even reported their senior dogs acting like puppies again after starting this diet.

Some customers have found the food to be a bit pricey, but they feel the benefits to their pets' health and well-being make it worth the cost. Others have mentioned their vets recommending Purina Pro Plan, adding to their confidence in the product's quality.

In conclusion, while there may be a few dogs that do not take to this food, the majority of customers report their dogs loving it and showing improved health and vitality. The small kibble size, while a concern for some, seems to be a benefit for senior dogs with dental issues.