Wellness Core Grain Free Senior - Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe Review

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Review of Wellness Core Grain Free Senior - Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe

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

Wellness Core Grain Free Senior - Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe 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 Wellness Core Grain Free Senior - Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe, we'll examine all 53 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. Turkey is a lean protein source that can help build and maintain muscle mass in dogs. It is also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B6 and niacin.

  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. Lentils are a high-quality, plant-based protein source that also provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight for your dog.

  4. Dried ground potatoes are a common ingredient in grain-free dog foods. They're a great source of digestible carbohydrates, providing energy for your dog, and also contain essential nutrients like potassium and vitamins C and B6.

  5. Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.

  6. Turkey meal is a high-quality, protein-rich ingredient that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your dog. It supports lean muscle development, healthy organ function, and a strong immune system.

  7. Ground flaxseed is an excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. It can support your dog's skin and coat health, digestive system, and overall well-being.

  8. Tomato pomace is a fiber-rich ingredient that can help support healthy digestion and maintain a healthy weight in dogs.

  9. Chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of essential fatty acids like omega-6 which help to maintain a healthy skin and coat. The tocopherols act as natural preservatives.

  10. Natural chicken flavor is a dog food ingredient used to enhance the taste and aroma of the product, making it more appealing to your pet. It is derived from real chicken and does not contain any artificial additives or chemicals. This natural flavoring helps encourage your dog to eat and enjoy their meals.

  11. Salmon oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, immune system, and cognitive function.

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

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

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

  15. Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

  16. Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to promote overall health in dogs.

  17. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your dog. They're rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function, and also provide fiber to aid in digestion and maintain a healthy weight.

  18. Parsley is a source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and it also supports fresh breath.

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

  20. Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  21. Kale is a nutrient-rich leafy green packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support a strong immune system, healthy skin, and coat in dogs.

  22. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of dog food, ensuring your pet receives the highest quality nutrients possible.

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

  24. 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.

  25. 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.

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

  27. 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.

  28. 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.

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

  30. 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.

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

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

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

  34. 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.

  35. 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.

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

  37. 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.

  38. Riboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is essential for energy production, cell function, and fat metabolism in your dog's body.

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

  40. 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.

  41. Chicory root extract is a natural source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that promotes healthy digestion and gut bacteria, supporting your dog's immune system and overall well-being.

  42. Yucca schidigera extract is a natural ingredient known for its ability to reduce unpleasant odors in your dog's waste. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support joint health and overall well-being.

  43. 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.

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

  45. 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.

  46. Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is an essential antioxidant that supports your dog's immune system and helps reduce inflammation.

  47. The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.

  48. Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product is a beneficial probiotic ingredient used in dog food. It helps support a healthy digestive system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This probiotic also aids in nutrient absorption and can improve your dog's overall immune system function.

  49. Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria in your dog, promoting optimal digestion and immune system function.

  50. Dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product is a probiotic that can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog's gut, supporting overall digestive health.

  51. 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.

  52. Green tea extract contains antioxidants that help protect your dog's cells from damage and support overall health.

  53. Spearmint extract provides a natural and refreshing flavor to dog food, as well as offering potential digestive and oral health benefits for dogs.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 32.00%: The primary contributors to the high protein content in this pet food product are the animal-based ingredients: deboned turkey, chicken meal, and turkey meal. Chicken meal and turkey meal are concentrated sources of protein because they are rendered products that have most of the moisture and fat removed, leaving a high-protein powder. Deboned turkey also provides a significant amount of protein, though it contains more water than meal, which means it contributes less to the overall protein content by weight.

Crude Fat (min) of 12.00%: The fat content is likely coming from the chicken fat, deboned turkey, chicken meal, and turkey meal. Chicken fat is a high-quality source of essential fatty acids and is used to enhance the taste of the food. The meals and deboned meat also contain natural fats that contribute to the overall fat content.

Crude Fiber (max) of 5.00%: Fiber in this product comes from plant-based ingredients such as lentils, dried ground potatoes, peas, tomato pomace, and ground flaxseed. These ingredients are less digestible than meat, contributing to the dietary fiber content that aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel health.

Calories of 3604.00 per kg: This measure of the food's energy content is derived from the combined macronutrients: protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The animal-based ingredients (deboned turkey, chicken meal, turkey meal) provide calories from protein and fat, while the plant-based ingredients (lentils, dried ground potatoes, peas, ground flaxseed) contribute calories from carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Chicken fat is also calorie-dense, significantly contributing to the total caloric content.

Review of Affordability

According to our data, Wellness Core Grain Free Senior - Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe costs approximately $3.51 per pound. The following table provides our estimate of the monthly cost to feed this recipe exclusively as your dog.

Adult WeightAdult
5 lbs $20.89
10 lbs $35.14
15 lbs $47.62
20 lbs $59.09
30 lbs $80.09
40 lbs $99.38
50 lbs $117.48
60 lbs $134.70
70 lbs $151.20
80 lbs $167.13
90 lbs $182.57
100 lbs $197.58

Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Many customers have expressed satisfaction with Wellness Core Grain Free Senior dog food, noting that their senior dogs have shown improved energy levels, better digestion, and overall health benefits. For instance, one customer reported a remarkable improvement in their 8-year-old German Shepherd's mobility and energy after switching to this food. Another mentioned how their 11-year-old Aussie is thriving on the turkey-based formula, highlighting the ease of transition and minimal stomach upset.

Some reviewers have praised the food for its high-quality ingredients and the positive impact on their dogs' coat condition and vitality. A 16-year-old flat-coated retriever has reportedly been on Wellness Grain-Free her whole life and is doing exceptionally well, according to her owner.

However, some customers have noted that the kibble size may be too large for smaller or tooth-challenged senior dogs. This has led to challenges for some pets in consuming the food comfortably. In response to this feedback, it may be beneficial for Wellness to consider offering a smaller kibble size to accommodate the needs of all senior dogs.

Additionally, while some dogs have transitioned to this food with great success, there are reports of others who are less enthusiastic about the taste or have had digestive issues. It's important to remember that every dog is different, and what works well for one may not suit another. Owners of picky eaters or dogs with specific dietary needs should always consult with their veterinarian when changing their pet's diet.

Overall, the positive reviews suggest that Wellness Core Grain Free Senior dog food is a well-regarded choice for many senior dogs, particularly those in need of a grain-free diet with a focus on quality protein sources and added nutrients for aging pets.