Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Canine Formula Review

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Review of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals 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 Naturals 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 Naturals Canine Formula, we'll examine all 40 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. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Cassava root flour is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy for your dog while being gentle on their digestive system. It's also an excellent source of resistant starch, a type of dietary fiber that supports a healthy gut.

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

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

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

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

  14. 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.

  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. Dried pumpkin is a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber for your dog. It is rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and a strong immune system. The dietary fiber in dried pumpkin can help regulate digestion and promote healthy bowel movements, making it a beneficial ingredient for dogs with digestive issues.

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

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

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

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

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

  23. 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.

  24. 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.

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

  26. 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.

  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. 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.

  36. 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.

  37. 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.

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

  40. 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 guaranteed crude protein minimum of 23.00% is likely contributed by the chicken meal, which is a concentrated form of protein, as well as by other protein-rich ingredients such as potato protein, pea protein, and fish oil. Chicken meal, being a rendered product from chicken tissues, provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle development and maintenance in dogs.

The crude fat minimum of 9.50% is primarily provided by the animal fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols, coconut oil, and fish oil. Animal fat is a common source of essential fatty acids and energy for dogs. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides that are easily metabolized for quick energy. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for skin and coat health, as well as cognitive function.

The maximum crude fiber content of 2.00% suggests that this diet is not very high in fiber, which can be beneficial for dogs with certain gastrointestinal issues. Ingredients contributing to the fiber content include brewers rice and dried pumpkin. Brewers rice is a processed rice product that retains some fiber, while dried pumpkin is known for its dietary fiber content, which can aid in digestion.

Lastly, the caloric content of 3796.00 calories per kg indicates the energy density of the food. This is influenced by the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the food. The carbohydrates likely come from ingredients like brewers rice and cassava root flour, which provide energy but less so than fats, which are more calorie-dense. The overall caloric content is a balance of these macronutrients and is important for maintaining a dog's energy requirements.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Canine Formula costs approximately $4.66 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightPuppyAdult
5 lbs $16.82$26.29
10 lbs $28.29$44.21
15 lbs $38.35$59.92
20 lbs $47.58$74.35
30 lbs $64.49$100.77
40 lbs $80.02$125.04
50 lbs $94.60$147.81
60 lbs $108.46$169.47
70 lbs $121.76$190.25
80 lbs $134.58$210.28
90 lbs $147.01$229.71
100 lbs $159.10$248.59

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers are expressing high satisfaction with Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Canine Formula, particularly for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. One pet owner noted remarkable improvements in their 11-year-old dog's stomach problems shortly after switching to this food, making it their permanent choice. Another highlighted the success in stabilizing their Golden retriever's digestive health, resulting in firm stools and reduced itching due to environmental allergies.

Several reviews praise the formula for resolving acute digestive issues such as colitis, with one customer reporting a complete turnaround in their lab mix's frequent loose stools within 24 hours of switching to this diet. A King Charles Cavalier owner found the food to be effective for their dog's B12 vitamin deficiency and stomach troubles. Pet owners are also pleased that their dogs actually enjoy the taste of the food, with one mentioning that their dog with diagnosed IBD willingly eats the kibble dry, which is beneficial for dental health and cost-saving.

While there are a few negative remarks about dogs not accepting the food or experiencing adverse reactions, these are relatively few. The positive reviews often include accounts of dogs with chronic digestive issues, such as pancreatitis, finding relief and improved quality of life after starting this diet. Some have even seen their pets regain youthful energy and have fewer episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. The food is also appreciated for its 'natural' approach, which seems to be well-received by pets with sensitivities to other prescription diets.

One concern raised by a Yorkie owner is regarding the kibble size, which they find too large for their small dog, leading to discomfort. Another negative review criticizes the ingredients, prompting the customer to switch to a fresh food diet. However, many others have found that the formula works well for their dogs, with one Great Dane owner celebrating the achievement of firm stools after a long search for the right food.

In summary, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Naturals Canine Formula is frequently recommended by veterinarians and has garnered positive feedback from many pet owners for its effectiveness in managing and resolving various digestive issues in dogs.