Rachael Ray Nutrish Smoochies Brushes Apple & Mint Flavor (Small & Medium Dogs) Review

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 Rachael Ray Nutrish Smoochies Brushes Apple & Mint Flavor (Small & Medium Dogs)

According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Rachael Ray Nutrish Smoochies Brushes Apple & Mint Flavor (Small & Medium Dogs), we'll examine all 18 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. Tapioca is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy and can be easily digested by most dogs.

  2. Potato flour is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides your dog with essential energy. It also contains dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and supports overall gut health.

  3. Pea starch is a carbohydrate source derived from peas, providing an alternative to grains for dogs with sensitivities. It serves as a source of energy, supports healthy digestion, and contributes to the overall balance of your dog's diet. Pea starch also has a low glycemic index, which can help manage blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes or weight management needs.

  4. Vegetable glycerin is used as a natural sweetener and texture enhancer in dog foods.

  5. Pea fiber is a natural source of dietary fiber for dogs that helps support digestive health and overall well-being. It also aids in weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness, making it a valuable addition to dog food formulas.

  6. Quinoa is a nutrient-dense, gluten-free grain that provides your dog with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It supports healthy digestion and overall well-being, making it an excellent choice for a balanced and nutritious dog food.

  7. Apple is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's digestive health, immune system, and overall well-being.

  8. Tricalcium phosphate is used as a calcium supplement in dog foods, contributing to strong teeth and bones.

  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. 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.

  11. Sunflower oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that promotes a healthy coat and skin.

  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. 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.

  14. Vinegar is a natural preservative that can help extend the shelf life of your dog's food. It also provides some health benefits, such as supporting a healthy digestive system and maintaining a balanced pH level in your dog's body.

  15. Peppermint oil not only provides a pleasing flavor, but it can also aid in digestion and offer a natural breath freshener for your dog.

  16. Turmeric color is a natural colorant derived from the turmeric spice, it is considered safe for dogs but does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

  17. Though not common, huito juice can provide some antioxidants and natural color in dog food.

  18. Watermelon juice is a natural source of hydration, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's overall health and well-being.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

The Crude Protein content of at least 4.00% in this pet food is likely contributed by the quinoa and pea starch. Quinoa is known to be a good plant-based protein source, and pea starch can also contain some level of protein. While these are not traditional high-protein ingredients like meat, they can still contribute to the overall protein content in a plant-based or semi-vegetarian dog treat.

The Crude Fat minimum of 2.00% is probably coming from the sunflower oil included in the ingredients list. Sunflower oil is a common source of dietary fat for dogs and would be responsible for the fat content in the treats. The overall low fat percentage reflects the treat's design to be a healthier, lower-fat option for pets.

The maximum of 6.00% Crude Fiber is most likely due to the inclusion of pea fiber and apple in the ingredients. Both of these are known to be high in dietary fiber. Pea fiber is a common ingredient in pet foods to increase fiber content, which can aid in digestion and promote satiety. Apple, while also contributing sweetness and flavor, is a natural source of fiber that would contribute to this guaranteed analysis value.