Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula Review

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Review of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula

According to our data, this Purina Pro Plan recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for adult dogs and growing puppies. 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 Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs and growing puppies.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula, we'll examine all 41 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. Brewers rice is a highly digestible carbohydrate source that provides energy for your dog.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Chicken meal is a highly concentrated source of protein made from dehydrated and ground chicken. It provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle development, tissue repair, and overall growth, making it a valuable ingredient for maintaining your dog's health and well-being.

  5. Animal fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a nutrient-rich energy source that supports overall health and provides essential fatty acids for your dog's well-being.

  6. Coconut Oil is a source of healthy fats which can support your dog's skin and coat health, and it also possesses some antimicrobial properties.

  7. 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.

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

  9. 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.

  10. 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.

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

  12. Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, can help maintain a balanced pH in your dog's stomach, aiding digestion.

  13. 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.

  14. 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.

  15. 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.

  16. 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.

  17. 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.

  18. L-threonine is an essential amino acid that supports the immune system, muscle growth, and the production of collagen in dogs, contributing to a healthy skin, coat, and joints.

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

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

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

  22. Dried colostrum is rich in antibodies and can help boost the immune system of dogs, promoting overall health and wellness.

  23. 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.

  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. L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid that helps to support your dog's mood and stress levels.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  34. 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.

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

  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. 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.

  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. 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.

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

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

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The crude protein minimum of 23.00% in the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula is likely contributed by the corn gluten meal, chicken meal, and to a lesser extent, whole grain corn and brewers rice. The corn gluten meal and chicken meal are concentrated sources of protein, which help to meet the dietary needs for a dog's muscle maintenance and overall health.

The crude fat minimum of 10.50% can be attributed to the animal fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols, coconut oil, fish oil, and soybean oil present in the ingredients. These sources provide essential fatty acids that are necessary for a dog's healthy skin, coat, and overall energy provision.

The maximum crude fiber content of 2.00% is relatively low, which is typical for a gastroenteric formula designed to be easy on a dog's digestive system. The wheat bran is the ingredient most likely contributing to the fiber content, while the low percentage ensures that the food is highly digestible.

The caloric content of 3800.00 kcal/kg is an overall measure of the energy provided by the food. This is influenced by the combined macronutrients in the formula — the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates derived from all the ingredients such as brewers rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, chicken meal, and the various oils. These ingredients are energy-dense, contributing to the total caloric value of the pet food.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula costs approximately $4.03 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $14.53$22.70
10 lbs $24.43$38.17
15 lbs $33.11$51.74
20 lbs $41.09$64.20
30 lbs $55.69$87.01
40 lbs $69.10$107.97
50 lbs $81.69$127.64
60 lbs $93.66$146.34
70 lbs $105.13$164.27
80 lbs $116.21$181.58
90 lbs $126.94$198.35
100 lbs $137.38$214.66

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers have reported significant improvements in their dogs' digestive health after switching to Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Canine Formula. Many dogs with chronic gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and vomiting, have seen rapid and sustained relief. Owners are particularly pleased with how well their dogs tolerate the food and the positive changes in their pets' energy levels and overall well-being.

Several pet owners have noted that even their picky eaters enjoy the taste of the food, which is a relief for those who struggled to encourage their dogs to eat other brands. The food is also credited with producing normal stools in dogs that previously suffered from loose bowels. The formula seems to be effective for a variety of breeds and ages, with many dogs showing improvements within just a few weeks of starting the diet.

Despite a few reports of dogs not taking to the kibble, the overwhelming majority of reviews are positive, with dogs not only enjoying the food but also experiencing better gastrointestinal health as a result. Some pets with serious conditions like pancreatitis and food sensitivities have also benefited from the diet, according to their owners. The food's ability to alleviate symptoms and promote a healthier digestive system is often highlighted as a key advantage.

In response to negative reviews concerning dogs not liking the taste or experiencing adverse reactions, it's important to note that individual dogs may have unique preferences and sensitivities. Transitioning to a new food should be done gradually, and in some cases, consulting a veterinarian for further guidance may be necessary to address specific health concerns. Overall, Purina's prescription diet appears to be a lifesaver for many dogs with gastrointestinal issues.