Welcome to my blog post, where I jump straight to the point! Corn in dog food is not bad!
Corn has long been a contentious ingredient in dog food, with many pet owners opting for corn-free options believing it to be harmful, full of mold, undigestible, and devoid of nutrition. However, science paints a different picture.
Contrary to popular belief, corn can offer several nutritional benefits for our canine companions and may be one of the most nutritious ingredients in well-formulated dry kibble pet foods.
Don’t believe me? Read on…
Nutritional Composition of Corn in Dog Food
Corn is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing dogs with readily available energy to fuel their daily activities. Yes, domesticated dogs benefit from carbohydrates!
Additionally, corn contains protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall canine health. Perhaps its best nutritional benefit is its high content of linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid crucial for dogs’ health.
Linoleic acid supports skin and coat health, immune function, and growth and development. Corn provides a readily available source of this important nutrient, helping dogs maintain glossy coats, strong immune systems, and healthy growth.
Many people consider corn a “filler”, not realizing just how much nutrition is packed into it. Styrofoam is a filler, corn is not.
Pet food ingredients like ancient grains and pulses are not as extensively researched as common cereals such as corn, rice, and wheat. Marketing wants us to believe alternative ingredients are healthier, but there is no proof.
Is Corn Digestible For Dogs?
One of the main concerns regarding corn in dog food is its digestibility.
Critics argue that dogs cannot efficiently digest corn, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Their argument is based purely on speculation, not science.
Humans often remark on how corn appears whole in their waste, overlooking the massive distinction between whole corn and ground corn.
After all, pioneers enjoyed cornmeal-based foods like johnnycakes and cornbread because ground corn is both shelf-stable and packed with nutrients, not to mention delicious.
Research indicates that when corn is processed correctly, it can be highly digestible for dogs.2 98% percent or more digestible, to be more exact, making it more digestible than beef!
Modern processing techniques have improved the digestibility of corn, making it an easily digestible source of nutrients for canines.
It’s time to put this myth about corn in dog food to bed.
Does Corn Cause Allergies & Sensitivities in Dogs?
Another common misconception is that corn is a common allergen for dogs.
While food allergies do occur (rarely) in some dogs, studies have shown that corn is not a primary allergen for canines.
For dogs without specific sensitivities, corn can be a safe and nutritious component of their diet.
Because it is so digestible, it may be a cleaner and safer option for sensitive dogs than less researched and more heavily processed starches such as “ancient grains”.
Does Corn Contain Mycotoxins and Mold?
Yes, corn (and other ingredients) can contain mycotoxins and mold, which are produced by certain fungi that can grow on crops like corn, particularly if they are stored in warm, humid conditions.
Mycotoxins are toxic compounds that can pose health risks to both humans and animals if consumed in high amounts.
Additionally, processing methods such as cooking and extrusion can help reduce the risk of mycotoxin contamination in pet food. Mold is just one of many contaminants pet foods of all types might face if they are not manufactured, stored, tested, and handled correctly.
As a precaution, pet owners should store pet food properly in a cool, dry place and avoid feeding their pets any food that appears moldy or has an unusual odor. Steer clear of brands like Midwest Pet Foods, which have had warning letters from the FDA due to gross negligence resulting in aflatoxins and mold in their foods.
If you have concerns about mycotoxins in your pet’s food, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
Is GMO Corn Bad for Dogs?
GMO corn, like any other food ingredient, is subject to rigorous safety evaluations by regulatory authorities before it enters the market. Currently, there is no scientific evidence suggesting that GMO corn is inherently harmful to dogs. GMO crops undergo extensive testing to ensure they are safe for consumption by both humans and animals.
The nutritional composition of GMO corn is comparable to non-GMO varieties, and it can provide valuable nutrients such as carbohydrates, fiber, and essential fatty acids in pet food.
GMO crops often have traits engineered to resist pests or tolerate herbicides, which can lead to reduced pesticide use and lower environmental impact. Additionally, some GMO varieties are designed to be more resilient to adverse growing conditions, such as drought or disease, which can help ensure a more reliable food supply for both humans and animals.
Overall, GMO corn has been extensively researched and deemed safe for consumption by regulatory authorities worldwide. Concerns about GMOs often stem from misinformation or misconceptions, and understanding the scientific evidence behind their safety can help alleviate any unnecessary worries.
We know that corn is highly nutritious and digestible, eliminating the possibility that it’s a “filler” devoid of value.
From a practical standpoint, corn offers a cost-effective source of nutrition for dog food manufacturers.
Its widespread availability and relatively low cost compared to other ingredients help keep the overall price of dog food affordable for pet owners without compromising on quality or nutritional value.
All dry pet foods require some kind of starch to bind the ingredients together, and the truth is that in many formulations, corn is the superior choice.
The vilification of corn in dog food is unfounded when considering scientific evidence. When properly processed and included in balanced formulations, corn can be a valuable source of energy and nutrients for dogs. Pet owners should focus on selecting high-quality dog foods that prioritize nutritional balance and digestibility, rather than simply avoiding specific ingredients like corn. By understanding the science behind canine nutrition, we can make informed decisions to promote the health and well-being of our beloved pets.
Corsato Alvarenga, I., Aldrich, C. G., & Shi, Y. (2021). Factors affecting digestibility of starches and their implications on adult dog health.Animal Feed Science and Technology, 282, 115134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2021.115134 ↩︎
Isabella Corsato Alvarenga, Amanda N. Dainton & Charles G. Aldrich (2022) A review: nutrition and process attributes of corn in pet foods, Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 62:31, 8567-8576, DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1931020↩︎
As with all pet food content I write, I aim to provide transparency and useful information. This Honest Kitchen dog food review is going to cover everything from where the food is manufactured to whether or not it is nutritionally sound for your pet.
I’m tired of pet food reviews that simply regurgitate and endorse the company’s marketing. You won’t find that here.
Years ago, I fed Honest Kitchen food to my little dog.
I distinctly remember preparing a bowl of it for my dog while my family was visiting, and they all kept saying that it looked like dog puke.
They weren’t kidding. It’s true.
Honest Kitchen invests heavily in marketing its brand, but whether its claims are supported by evidence justifying the extra expense remains to be seen.
The Honest Kitchen sells dehydrated pet food (that must be prepared before serving), wet food, and “clusters” (their take on kibble). This is not a typical pet food brand, and that’s part of the appeal.
Let’s dig in!
Honest Kitchen Marketing Claims
The Honest Kitchen pet food company makes the following claims in its marketing:
Human-Grade Ingredients
Wholesome and Natural
Balanced Nutrition
Convenient Preparation
Transparency
Limited Ingredient Options
Palatability
High-Quality Standards
These things are of course, very appealing to pet parents looking for a high-quality diet! Many companies make these same claims, so is Honest Kitchen different?
What is Human Grade Dog Food?
The Honest Kitchen claims to produce only “Human-grade” food and says that they are the only food brand authorized by the FDA to make that claim on their products. What they mean is that the FDA inspected their facilities and provided a letter of “no-objection” to Honest Kitchen using that term in their marketing.
It’s not that the FDA has a designated term that requires companies to adhere to it, it’s that they had no reason to object to the term when Honest Kitchen asked them to verify.
None of this is a bad thing! It shows a dedication to quality ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices (which, can be possible in pet foods that aren’t labeled “human grade” as well).
The concept behind “human grade” dog food is that it will have been manufactured using the same strict attention to cleanliness, pathogen management, and quality as human food.
Boutique pet food companies, such as the Honest Kitchen, leverage this belief to their advantage by claiming that their food meets the supposedly higher “human-grade” standards.
However, food scientists know better than this.
The truth? In many ways pet foods have much stricter regulations on them than human foods, especially when it comes to raw meat!
Why is this? Because human food is meant to be cooked at home, which kills pathogens. Pet food must be safe straight out of the bag.
Additionally, humans handle pet food in their homes; it cannot contain pathogens and toxins that may be harmful to people.
I do not doubt that the Honest Kitchen has good quality control and sources high-quality ingredients. Where pet owners need to tread cautiously is in misleading marketing such as “human grade” that is meant to position food as superior.
Many pet food companies selling “pet grade” foods adhere to insanely high standards, and they have to (because the regulations, believe it or not, demand it).
A lot of the meat, grains, and supplements seen in more traditional pet foods are coming from suppliers who produce those same ingredients for human consumption.
In theory and according to some standards, the moment it’s shipped for use in pet food, it’s no longer “human grade”, even if it’s identical to the product shipped to a facility making food for humans. Based on that logic, Honest Kitchen is not actually “human grade”, unless you plan to pour yourself a bowl and eat it for dinner.
There are also major environmental and ethical considerations when it comes to using super high-quality anything for pets. Pets don’t need “top quality” anything in their diet. In nature, they will eat entrails, bones, bugs, and organs. In our homes, they will eat trash and poop.
When the human meat industry processes chickens, there are nutritious bones, organs, and tissues left behind. Many pet food companies use these ingredients instead of allowing them to go to waste, however, the Honest Kitchen would not because it goes against their beliefs about quality.
Food for thought!
Does Honest Kitchen Meet WSAVA Recommendations?
WSAVA’s recommendations for pet food focus on factors such as nutritional research, quality control, and manufacturing standards, which are essential considerations for any pet food brand claiming to offer balanced and high-quality nutrition.
I’ve dug into some very common WSAVA guidelines below to determine if Honest Kitchen adheres to them.
Who Formulates Honest Kitchen Dog Food?
The first place I look is the Pet Nutrition Alliance Manufacturer’s Report, which asks pet food companies to answer a few simple questions regarding their nutritionist and where the food is manufactured.
As of 2023, The Honest Kitchen had not responded to those inquiries. Based on my experience, when a company chooses not to publish such answers for the Pet Nutrition Alliance, it suggests that they may not adhere to the highest standards.
So of course, I had to go digging.
The Honest Kitchen states that they “work with a team of renowned veterinarians, including an ACVN-accredited veterinary nutritionist, to create each and every recipe“.
This means that they use unnamed consultants with variable credentials in their formulations, and none of them are on staff or employed by the company. Having an ACVN veterinary nutritionist involved in the formulation process is incredibly valuable, but without a direct relationship, it’s difficult to ascertain the extent of their contribution.
Where is Honest Kitchen Dog Food Made?
Most Honest Kitchen food is made in an unnamed “human-grade” facility that also manufactures soup, cereal, and milkshake powders.
In 2021 they opened a manufacturing plant for their “clusters” pet food (which is similar to kibble). I was unable to verify how much of their manufacturing is done at this plant.
I do believe that in general, the Honest Kitchen does meet high standards for ingredient sourcing, manufacturing practices, and overall management of pathogens and toxins.
Does Honest Kitchen Do Feeding Trials?
The Honest Kitchen brand has not completed traditional AAFCO feeding trials, instead indicating that they have “exceeded them” with a series of at-home trials.
At-home trials can be complicated, as pets in the home environment cannot be adequately monitored for accidental or intentional ingestion of other foods, treats, and supplements. Additionally, because each dog lives in a very different environment, it’s hard to objectively compare them.
In-home trials are helpful and can provide useful information, and it’s a far cry ahead of companies that do nothing at all. However, I’m not convinced that at-home feeding trials are all that superior.
The Honest Kitchen claims that their 6-month feeding trial of 24 dogs indicated positive results for each dog. However, they only tested three recipes among several in their product line.
The Honest Kitchen claims to be ethically and morally opposed to traditional feeding trials done in a laboratory environment. This take implies that dogs that participate in “traditional” tests are abused and live horrible lives locked in cages.
This is simply not true. It’s a complete myth and I have serious complaints about pet food companies that spread such misinformation.
Many people who work in pet food testing facilities will tell you that the dogs there receive tons of playtime, attention, enrichment, and care. They are groomed, loved, and trained. Those dogs receive regular veterinary care and are not subjected to torture or abuse as many would imply.
Is Honest Kitchen Endorsed by Veterinarians?
Kind of.
What I mean by this is that the only endorsements or collaborations I can find are with “holistic” veterinarians, and a review is hardly considered an endorsement.
Holistic and integrative veterinarians can be helpful in some situations, however, they are unfortunately known for denying published research and utilizing “natural” treatments and solutions with questionable efficacy and safety.
I’d like to see evidence-based veterinarians endorse or recommend Honest Kitchen as well, however, they don’t (at least not publicly or online). I’m always cautious when the only veterinarians that will recommend or endorse a food are “holistic”.
So while we cannot determine if this food is nutritionally sound, we can take a look at what’s in it. Their grain-free formulas ARE heavy in peas and potatoes, which may increase the risk of nutritional DCM (more on this below).
There is nothing wrong with any of these ingredients, and I do not doubt that they have all been purchased from quality suppliers. Beef, oats, and barley are traditional and well-researched pet food ingredients.
As a pet parent, I would not hesitate to purchase and use this food as a nutritious topper or to stuff puzzles such as the West Paw TOPPL!
Like the dehydrated beef recipe, this appears to be another food with several traditional, highly researched ingredients such as chicken, barley, and oats.
However, there’s a concern regarding the chicken content in this food. Although it is listed as the first ingredient, it doesn’t specify whether it was dehydrated or processed into a meal beforehand. This can suggest that its position as the primary ingredient may be due to water weight, not nutrient density in the finished food.
Honest Kitchen clusters are “cold pressed”. This means that individual ingredients are cooked before being pressed into shapes at low temperatures (around 100 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s not actually ‘cold’ nor is it raw.
What is the Carb Level in Honest Kitchen Pet Food?
I must admit, I was thoroughly impressed by the level of detail and comprehensiveness provided by Honest Kitchen. In contrast to many companies that make you hunt for such details or even refuse to provide them altogether, Honest Kitchen’s transparency is refreshing.
I used their tool to pull random samples of food and here is what I found.
Every sample was 42-50% carbs, which is in line with most dry kibble foods.
The Honest Kitchen contains average carb levels.
There is nothing wrong with carbs in pet foods and I appreciate that they embrace healthy grains such as barley and oats which provide amino acids and energy.
What is the Copper Level in Honest Kitchen Pet Food?
All of them fell right in range with the averages we see from science-backed companies such as Purina, Royal Canin, and Eukanuba.
In recent years, researchers have raised concerns about excess copper content in pet foods contributing to a rise in copper storage and liver diseases. The FEDAIF (European) recommends capping copper at 28 mg/kg. Many foods in the U.S. well exceed that level, especially from “holistic” and boutique-type pet food companies.
However, this value appears to be well controlled in Honest Kitchen, running in the neighborhood of 10 – 22 mg/kg of copper on average.
If you are concerned about copper levels in your pet’s food, verify that information with the company before feeding it.
Does Honest Kitchen Cause DCM?
This is where things get a little dicey.
Unfortunately, The Honest Kitchen has been seen in veterinary-confirmed cases of nutritional DCM (which can often be reversed with diet change).
The challenge with nutritional heart disease lies in its multifaceted nature, and fortunately, it’s relatively rare. It DOES happen, however, and it is 100% preventable.
Researchers know that N-DCM is seen as a problem with boutique pet food brands that do not have a qualified nutritionist on staff, in particular, if they use a lot of peas and legumes in their formulations.
Whether we want to admit it or not, Honest Kitchen shares those risk factors.
While the Honest Kitchen has exceptional feel-good marketing and wholesome ingredients, those things may not outweigh the risks of nutritional deficiencies.
These deficiencies can be a problem no matter how ‘healthy’ and ‘high quality’ a food appears to be.
Talk to your veterinarian about diet, especially if you have a breed prone to heart disease in the first place.
Can Honest Kitchen Dog Food Be Fed to Puppies?
As with all pet foods, it’s important to verify the AAFCO statement on the bag.
The statement should say something along the lines of this: “this formula meets the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for growth and development.”
Large and giant breed puppies require food where the AAFCO statement further indicates that the formula meets the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for growth and development, including the growth of large breed puppies, 70+ lbs as adults.
This is because large-breed puppy foods have well-controlled calcium and energy levels.
No matter what Honest Kitchen food you choose, look for that statement.
The Honest Kitchen is a premium food that comes at a premium price point.
As with most similar foods, the added expense is more than what would truly make our pets healthy and thriving. Good marketing tells us that “high-quality human-grade food” is what we should buy when the truth is that many very affordable foods produce the same (or better) results.
I’m not convinced that pet parents should be shamed into spending big money on food like this under the guise that it would always result in a healthier, more robust pet.
However, if you have a pet that does well on expensive “human-grade” pet food, and you can afford it, there is nothing wrong with that.
I would use the clusters as training treats and the dehydrated food for stuffing enrichment toys. Honest Kitchen dehydrated food would make a great topper that is pretty close to fresh foods, while still being balanced and safe to feed.
Would I buy it? YES! Absolutely.
Would I feed it as my pet’s exclusive diet? No. I’d like to see the Honest Kitchen better adhere to WSAVA guidelines, and put to rest some of their more egregious marketing tactics.
Ensuring our furry companions receive a balanced diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. While meat is typically the primary component of a dog’s diet, incorporating fruits and vegetables can provide a range of health benefits. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 fruits and vegetables that are not only safe for dogs but also offer valuable nutrients to support their health.
10 Best Fruits and Vegetables for Dogs
The current trend of homemade dog food and incorporating fresh foods into a dog’s diet is gaining popularity! While I strongly advocate for science-backed kibble from WSAVA-compliant brands as the primary source of nutrition, I also believe there is room to supplement thoughtfully with fresh, whole foods.
I’ve included my 10 favorite fruits and vegetables for dogs below, as well as some fun tips for making them enriching for your pup.
Author’s Note: I’ve included some health benefits to each of the whole, fresh foods below. Please note, however, that these benefits are not a cure-all or magic pill! Always talk to your veterinarian.
1. Blueberries for Dogs
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for your dog’s snack time. These small, juicy berries can be fed fresh or frozen, and many dogs enjoy them as a tasty treat. Blueberries support cognitive function, aid in digestion, and contribute to a healthy immune system.
You can also give your dog frozen blueberries, straight from the bag. I like to use them for training treats and fun treat-catching photos!
2. Frozen Carrots Make Great Dog Chews
Crunchy and nutritious, carrots are a favorite among many dogs. They are low in calories and high in fiber, promoting dental health and aiding in digestion. Carrots are also rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function.
Frozen carrot sticks or carrot chips make excellent chewy treats for dogs of all sizes. You can even dip them first in canned food to enhance their appeal.
3. DIY Apple Enrichment Toy for Dogs
Apples are a crunchy and hydrating snack for dogs, providing them with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Be sure to remove the seeds and core before feeding apples to your dog, as these parts can be a choking hazard. Apples support dental health, aid in digestion, and may even freshen breath.
Use a knife and cut the top off of an apple. Carefully core out the center of the apple, leaving as much of the apple flesh intact as possible. This will create an edible bowl that you can use to stuff with rehydrated kibble or canned food! Freeze this treat for long-lasting enrichment.
4. Make Spinach Cubes for your Dog
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is safe for dogs in moderation. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate. Incorporating spinach into your dog’s diet can promote healthy bones, support the immune system, and contribute to overall vitality.
Frozen spinach cubes can be added to your pet’s kibble or homemade dog treats for a nutritional boost. Blend them up first (I love my NutraBullet for this) so that they are very digestible for your dog.
5. Pumpkin, a Versatile Dog Treat
Pumpkin is rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting regular bowel movements. Pumpkin is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.
Canned pureed pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) can be mixed into your dog’s food for added flavor and nutrients. You can even give your dog a whole fresh pie pumpkin (take the stem off) to roll around and play with; just make sure they don’t eat too much in one sitting.
Pro tip: take it easy on the pumpkin! Too much can have the opposite effect on stool quality. You’ve been warned!
6. Strawberries Dipped in Yogurt for Dogs
Strawberries are another fruit that dogs can enjoy in moderation. They are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, promoting overall health and well-being. Strawberries can also serve a tiny roll as a natural teeth whitener.
Fresh strawberries can be sliced and served as a refreshing treat for your furry friend. Dip them in plain yogurt to make a sweet Valentine’s day or summer treat!
7. Green Beans for Weight Loss & Fiber
Green beans are a low-calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable that most dogs love. They are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin K, which supports bone health. Green beans can also help dogs feel full without adding extra calories, making them a great option for weight management.
Freeze-dried green beans offer a crunchy texture and can be used as a healthy training treat.
8. Yes, Dogs Can Have Watermelon, too!
Watermelon is a hydrating and delicious fruit that many dogs enjoy. It is low in calories and contains vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. Feeding your dog watermelon in moderation can help keep them hydrated and provide essential nutrients.
Fresh watermelon chunks make a refreshing summer treat for dogs; try freezing them for added enrichment (remove the rind, please).
9. Sweet Potato Dog Chews
Sweet potatoes are a nutritious root vegetable that dogs can benefit from. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Sweet potatoes support digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and provide sustained energy.
Dehydrated sweet potato slices are a chewy and satisfying snack for dogs. My dogs go nuts for these Dr. Harvey’s Sweet Potato Chews!
10. Cranberries Treat for Dogs
Cranberries are known for their urinary tract health benefits in humans, and they can offer similar benefits for dogs. They contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that support bladder and kidney health. Cranberries can also help prevent urinary tract infections in dogs.
Dried cranberries can be sprinkled over your dog’s food for a tasty and nutritious addition. Never give your dog dried raisins or grapes!
How Many Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Can I Give My Dog?
The amount of fresh fruits and vegetables you can safely give to your dog depends on several factors, including their size, age, weight, and overall health.
As a general guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, and even less if you have a still-growing puppy.
When introducing new fruits and vegetables into your dog’s diet, start with small portions to gauge their reaction and watch for any signs of digestive upset. Too much fiber is not good for their tummies!
It’s also important to remember that not all fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs. Some may be toxic or cause digestive issues, such as grapes and onions. Always research and consult with your veterinarian before offering any new foods to your dog.
Blend Those Veggies Up!
Blending vegetables before giving them to your dog can have several benefits:
Improved Digestibility: Dogs have shorter digestive tracts compared to humans, which can make it difficult for them to break down plant matter efficiently. Blending vegetables into a smooth consistency can help predigest the fibers, making the nutrients more accessible and easier for your dog to absorb.
Prevention of Choking Hazard: Some dogs may tend to gulp down large chunks of food, increasing the risk of choking. Blending vegetables into a puree eliminates the risk of choking on large pieces, ensuring safer consumption.
Enhanced Palatability: Some dogs may be hesitant to eat whole vegetables due to texture or taste preferences. Blending vegetables into a smooth puree can help mask any undesirable textures or flavors, making them more appealing to your dog.
Mixing with Other Ingredients: Blending vegetables allows you to easily mix them with other ingredients, such as meat or commercial dog food, creating a balanced and nutritious meal for your dog. This can be particularly beneficial if you’re preparing homemade dog food recipes that require a combination of ingredients.
Customization: Blending vegetables gives you the flexibility to customize the texture and consistency based on your dog’s preferences and dietary needs. You can adjust the thickness of the puree to suit your dog’s taste and make it easier for them to consume.
Do Vegetables Prevent Cancer in Dogs?
While there is no definitive evidence that vegetables alone can prevent cancer in all dogs, incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into your dog’s diet as part of a balanced and nutritious meal may contribute to their overall health and potentially reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
The effect may be minimal; tread cautiously with influencers who imply that lots of veggies are the key to preventing cancer in your dog!
Many fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients, which have been shown to have protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are associated with cancer development.
For example, antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene help neutralize free radicals in the body, which can damage cells and contribute to cancer formation.
Too much can have the opposite effect, though! When dogs receive too much Vitamin C, for example, the anti-oxidant properties become pro-oxidant. While the word “pro” implies something positive, in this case, it’s not good.
Additionally, some vegetables, such as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, contain compounds called glucosinolates, which have been studied for their potential anticancer properties.
However, it’s essential to emphasize that while a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may offer health benefits, it should be part of a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention in dogs. Other factors, such as genetics, environmental exposures, and overall lifestyle, also play significant roles in cancer development.
If you substitute too much of an already balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, you could potentially cause preventable health issues in your pet resulting from nutritional deficiencies.
Consulting with your veterinarian about your dog’s diet and overall health is crucial. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs and help you create a balanced diet that supports their well-being and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer. Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups and screenings can help detect any potential health issues early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.
Does Dog Kibble Contain Vegetables?
Yes, many commercial dog kibbles contain vegetables or fruits as an ingredient. These vegetables are often included to provide additional nutrients, fiber, and flavor to the dog food. Common vegetables found in dog kibble may include peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and broccoli, among others.
However, often these ingredients are included in such low amounts that they provide minimal nutritional benefit, akin to “fairy dust”.
Don’t fall prey to pet food marketing that wants you to believe a dry dog food has all of the benefits of fresh spinach, blueberries, and pomegranates.
You are much better off choosing a veterinary-recommended brand and adding fresh vegetables to your pet’s diet as a form of enrichment.
Conclusion: Adding fruits and vegetables to your dog’s diet can provide a range of health benefits, from supporting digestion to boosting the immune system. By incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables in moderation and consulting with your veterinarian, you can ensure that your furry friend enjoys a balanced and nutritious diet that promotes overall health and vitality.
Another day, another round of pet food lawsuits, recalls, misinformation, and drama. I suspect this is going to be a big one! On February 6th, 2024, Keto Natural Pet Foods filed a massive class action lawsuit against Hill’s Science Diet. Keto Natural Pet Foods vs. Hill’s Pet Nutrition is a hot topic, with a controversial argument.
They claim that Hill’s Science Diet and a handful of top veterinary specialists “participated in an egregious, wide-ranging, and damaging campaign of coordinated, for-profit, faux-scientific misinformation.”
Here is the list of Defendants listed in the lawsuit:
Hill’s Science Diet
Morris Animal Foundation – Mark Morris Institute
Dr. Lisa M. Freeman – Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist
Dr. Darcy B. Adin – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
Dr. Joshua A. Stern – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
Dr. Ryan C. Fries – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
Dr. John E. Rush – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
To put this in simple terms, Keto Naturals pet food is alleging that Hill’s Science Diet and the above list of highly-educated veterinary specialists fabricated the entire grain-free DCM heart disease debate to gain back lost market share from boutique and small food brands.
What is the “Grain-Free DCM Heart Disease Debate?
This issue in pet food revolves around concerns that certain grain-free diets may be linked to an increased incidence of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. While some believe that grain-free and boutique diets can contribute to DCM, others argue that insufficient evidence exists to establish a direct causal relationship, prompting ongoing discussions and research in the pet food industry. You can learn more about this HERE.
I have so many thoughts. As always, our blog relies on published evidence, common sense, and cited research. We do not resort to fear-mongering or insincere sensationalism! This blog post is your one-stop place to learn more about this issue. Please like, share, and follow. Read on, friends.
Keto Naturals Ketona Pet Food
To better understand the source of this lawsuit, I did some digging into the company behind it.
Keto Naturals is a boutique pet food company in the truest sense of the word. According to Grips Intelligence, their yearly sales revenue is below $1 Million U.S.D.
Compare that to Hill’s Science Diet, whose 2023 revenue sits at $4 Billion U.S.D.
If they wanted to, Hill’s could buy Keto Naturals and stuff it in a closet. Their measly revenue is not, and has never been, a threat to Hill’s Science Diet.
Keto Naturals markets their pet food as a low-carb Keto and “natural” diet option for pets.
However, while some pet owners are drawn to these products due to their alignment with human dietary fads, there is an ongoing debate among experts about the suitability and safety of ketogenic diets for animals. There is minimal research supporting the use of Ketogenic diets, while a considerable body of evidence suggests various potential problems associated with them.
Here are some other things we know about Keto Naturals / Ketona Pet Food and its founder:
Their food is co-packed by big factories that make many other brands for other companies.
There is no qualified nutritionist on staff.
It is unclear where the recipes are from, and if a qualified nutritionist consultant was used in their creation.
Keto Naturals does not participate in or publish peer-reviewed research or feeding trials.
They have a “science” page on their website pointing to a belief that carbs are fattening for humans and dogs. That is a theory that has remained unsubstantiated and is often refuted in published research.
A lot of their marketing is centered around bashing competitors (Such as the Farmer’s Dog) and other food types (including raw and fresh), as well as AAFCO regulations and standard practices for food nutrient testing.
Their website states that their foods have never been associated with a single case of nutritional DCM. However, their market share is abysmal. Some of the revenue comes from supplements they sell, not complete diets. The company has only been around since 2018, and very few dogs eat their food.
Keto Naturals’ outspoken founder and CEO Daniel Schulof is a lawyer. He is not an animal scientist, biologist, qualified nutritionist, or veterinarian.
Despite having no formal education in animal nutrition, biology, or veterinary science, Daniel Schulof has positioned himself as an expert authority on this topic and even published a book that he says has been critically acclaimed.
He does have a $200 certificate in pet nutrition from a RACE-approved veterinary CE online course. He openly declares his readiness to challenge anyone with superior credentials, firmly believing that his knowledge exceeds theirs.
This information is easy to find via a quick Google search, where his LinkedIn profile is publicly visible.
He is boldly challenging a group of veterinary researchers and specialists who possess significantly more education and expertise than he does.
I’m going to say something controversial about Keto Natural Pet Foods vs. Hill’s, but hear me out.
I believe that the Keto Natural vs. Hill’s Science Diet Lawsuit is a brilliant marketing move.
This news has spread rapidly across social media, leading to increased interest in Keto Naturals and higher engagement with their content.
By submitting a controversial and potentially frivolous lawsuit, costing around $400 U.S.D., the brand has garnered significant attention in the pet community. Holistic veterinarians and “consumer advocates” are buzzing, selectively promoting information that supports the arguments presented in the lawsuit.
How ironic.
Keto Naturals History & the DCM Debate
Daniel Schulof (founder of Keto Naturals) is no stranger to engaging in this controversy. He practically invented it.
He wanted that article removed, so he created a website called “Veterinary Integrity” and collected the signatures of veterinarians, scientists, human medical providers, representatives of grain-free pet food companies, and individual pet owners. His petition demanded the removal of the above editorial commentary piece from the JAMVA. (Read his demand letter HERE). 5
Despite the submission of the petition to JAVMA, the article was not retracted.
Certainly, the signatures he amassed predominantly reflected the views of a minority subset consisting of “holistic” veterinarians, pet food companies, and individuals inclined towards extreme “wellness” ideologies that often overlook scientific evidence. These signatures did not align with the sentiments of the majority of veterinarians and pet owners.
Keto Natural Pet Foods vs. Hill’s Lawsuit & Arguments
Determining whether Keto Naturals has a case against Hill’s Science Diet would depend on various factors, including the evidence presented, legal arguments, and the interpretation of relevant laws and regulations.
Author’s Note: Hello Danes does not necessarily agree with the following statements and arguments made in the Keto Naturals vs. Hill’s Science Diet lawsuit filing. This is being provided for informational purposes only:
Hill’s Science Diet collaborated with several veterinary specialists to falsely claim that all “non-traditional” dog foods raise the risk of canine DCM.
They deceitfully encouraged the FDA to investigate DCM cases by cherry-picking data.
Studies have not proven definitive causation.
They popularized the term “BEG” diets (Boutique, Exotic, Grain-Free) to implicate competitors and used blogs, websites, and social media to shape the narrative.
This led to significant losses for “BEG” pet food companies like Keto Naturals, which alleges its reputation was unfairly damaged.
Veterinarians who spread information about grain-free diets received it from Hill’s Science Diet and the Veterinary Defendants, raising concerns about funding and influence.
The Veterinary Defendants also have a conflict of interest due to their involvement in research funded by Hill’s Science Diet.
In this specific case, it seems like a class action is being pursued. This means that other small pet food companies could potentially join the case and seek compensation from any eventual judgment or settlement (if there is one, and that is a big if).
As a journalist, I typically strive to remain impartial while supporting my argument with published research and science.
It’s worth pointing out that the founder of Keto Naturals seems quite upset by what he feels is a loss of consumer trust in his brand (and thus, revenue), and he wants somewhere to place the blame.
Conveniently, his argument also happens to stand on a very controversial platform.
Controversy sells.
Grain-Free Diets and DCM Heart Disease in Dogs
In 2014, Veterinary Cardiologists initiated communication with the FDA regarding an alarming trend they had been noticing of atypical heart disease. This led the FDA to begin collecting data from Veterinary Specialists (some of whom are defendants in this lawsuit).
An announcement from the FDA in 20187 (four years later) aimed to gather more information from affected pet owners, sparking a prolonged debate that continues into 2024. Coincidentally, Keto Naturals Pet Food was started in 2018. The discussion had already been happening, and they were late to the party.
Despite the implication made in the lawsuit that “no research has proven a link between grain-free foods and heart disease in dogs”, there is a lot more to that story.
The FDA has a helpful Q&A page8 that beautifully explains a lot of the information available to us regarding DCM and Nutritional Factors.
Veterinarians nationwide consistently observe a rise in atypical heart disease cases among patients fed non-traditional, BEG, or grain-free diets. Many instances reportedly show improvement or reversal with diet change.
While it’s very possible that most dogs can eat BEG-style diets their whole lives without issue, some cannot. It may take years to sort out why.
The Keto Natural Pet Foods Inc. lawsuit against Hill’s Science Diet is adding fuel to the flames. To deny the hundreds of pet parents, whose pets were diagnosed with nutritional DCM and were harmed by boutique pet foods, is disingenuous.
Moreover, nutrition science is a highly complex and expanding area of research. It’s concerning that the owner of a small company, who is a lawyer and not a veterinary scientist, feels confident in arguing so egregiously against something about which he has limited knowledge and personal experience.
Given his background as a lawyer, one would anticipate his understanding of the peer-review process in research and science. However, it is troubling that he dismisses any critical studies and discussion on this topic, attributing it all to perceived financial influence and conflict of interest.
Does Keto Naturals Have a Case Against Hill’s Nutrition?
I’m not a legal professional, so I can’t provide a definitive answer. However, I’m open to sharing my thoughts and speculations on the matter.
Frivolous lawsuits are often considered baseless, lacking in legal reasoning or evidence to support the claims made. They may be filed for reasons such as harassment, intimidation, or to exploit the legal system for personal gain (see above, this is exceptionally good marketing for Keto Naturals brand).
Frivolous lawsuits can waste time and resources for both parties involved and can clog up the court system.
I observe a fledgling brand (Keto Naturals/Ketona) investing its limited time and resources into challenging top veterinary specialists and a large company (Hill’s Pet Nutrition) that is backed by extensive volumes of peer-reviewed scientific research.
At its core, that is frivolous.
The suggestion that multiple veterinary researchers have colluded with a single company to deliberately undermine small brands like Keto Naturals (whose revenue, even when combined with several other smaller brands, poses no threat to Hill’s bottom line) is far-fetched.
To prevail in this case, they’ll need to provide substantial evidence that these events occurred and were intentional. Many statements in the legal filing appear akin to a toddler’s tantrum, which may not be taken seriously by a judge.
Keto Natural Pet Food attributes its stagnant growth to the DCM “scheme” allegedly orchestrated by Hill’s Pet Nutrition and its purported co-conspirators, overlooking the simple fact that there may just not be much interest in Keto Dog Food among consumers.
The popularity of the human Keto diet trend is waning as people become more aware of the health risks associated with extreme and restrictive diets. It’s logical to assume that a boutique pet food company attempting to capitalize on this trend would face challenges, regardless of external factors.
With many things in the world of pet food, there are two sides.
On one side, there’s the often anti-science “holistic” faction, advocating for what they view as a more “natural” approach. Unfortunately, many adherents to this philosophy regularly undermine the credibility of experts and engage in the propagation of conspiracy theories. This side stands firmly with Keto Naturals, as for years they have shared the same unsubstantiated arguments that he does.
On the other side, there’s the pro-veterinary research faction, committed to uncovering the truth through scientific methods, diligent peer-reviewed research, and evidence-based practices.
It will be interesting to see how this shakes out, but for now, I’m choosing to continue standing with science.
Disclaimer: The information provided regarding the KetoNatural Pet Foods Inc. vs. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc. lawsuit is for informational purposes only. We are not legal professionals, and any information presented is a journalistic interpretation and should not be construed as legal advice. Additionally, our site is not affiliated with, or funded by the FDA, Hill’s Science Diet, or Veterinary Researchers.
Footnotes
Diet culture is rooted in racism, white supremacy, and colonialism, Marisa Crane BS↩︎
Ketogenic diet: What are the risks? U.C. Davis. Natalie Helms ↩︎
Cridge H, Lim SY, Algül H, Steiner JM. New insights into the etiology, risk factors, and pathogenesis of pancreatitis in dogs: Potential impacts on clinical practice. J Vet Intern Med. 2022 May;36(3):847-864. doi: 10.1111/jvim.16437. Epub 2022 May 12. PMID: 35546513; PMCID: PMC9151489. ↩︎
Freeman, L. M., Stern, J. A., Fries, R., Adin, D. B., & Rush, J. E. (2018). Diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs: what do we know?. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 253(11), 1390-1394. Retrieved Feb 13, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.253.11.1390↩︎
Daniel Schulof Demand Letter to the AVMA, January 26th, 2019 ↩︎
Keto Naturals Inc. vs. Hill’s Science Diet Inc. Class Action Lawsuit Document ↩︎
FDA Investigating Potential Connection Between Diet and Cases of Canine Heart Disease ↩︎
Questions & Answers: FDA’s Work on Potential Causes of Non-Hereditary DCM in Dogs ↩︎
Owens EJ, LeBlanc NL, Freeman LM, Scollan KF. Comparison of echocardiographic measurements and cardiac biomarkers in healthy dogs eating nontraditional or traditional diets. J Vet Intern Med. 2023; 37(1): 37-46. doi:10.1111/jvim.16606↩︎
Dealing with picky eating is a common challenge for dog owners. Many dogs have their own unique preferences and may turn their noses up at certain foods, making mealtime a frustrating experience. But, the Great Picky Eater Dog Remedy may not be what you think!
While it’s essential to rule out underlying health issues with the guidance of a veterinarian, picky eating in dogs often stems from behavioral or environmental factors.
In this article, we will explore various (free!) remedies and strategies to address picky eating habits in your canine companion, ensuring they receive the nutrition they need and enjoy their meals once again.
Why do dogs get picky about food?
Before we can understand how to fix picky eating in our pets, we have to understand why dogs are picky in the first place.
Just like humans, dogs can develop discerning palates and preferences for certain higher value flavors and textures. That doesn’t mean they should be eating filet mignon every day anymore than we should be eating shrimp scampi, but many pet parents address this behavior by giving their dogs tasty treats and toppers (more on this common mistake below!).
If a dog has been given table scraps or high-value treats frequently, they may hold out for these more enticing options instead of their regular kibble.
Environmental factors, such as changes in routine, feeding location, or food type, can also contribute to pickiness. Changes in their rate of growth can affect their appetite, too.
Additionally, some dogs may become picky eaters as a result of health issues, dental problems, or food allergies, which can make eating a less enjoyable experience.
Causes of picky eating in dogs
To keep this simple, I’m breaking down the causes of picky eating in dogs into three main categories:
a. Learned Behavior. Examples of this include dogs who won’t eat unless you add broth, chicken, eggs, or other tasty treats to the bowl, or dogs that voraciously eat a new brand of kibble but lose interest after a few days.
b. Health Problem. These dogs have underlying health issues that make them picky. Examples include dental problems, digestive upset, and obstructions.
c. The Dog is Full. A lot of people overfeed their dogs, and don’t realize that the ‘pickness’ is actually a symptom of the fact that their dog simply doesn’t want, or need, more food. (Read HERE about pet obesity).
What are symptoms of picky eating in dogs?
Dogs that are “picky eaters” will turn their nose up at their food bowl, at times choosing to not eat for several meals at a time.
However, because there are often environmental (training) and physical (health) problems at play, it’s very important that dog owners not immediately jump to the conclusion that the dog is being “stubborn”.
As a matter of fact, barring legitimate health concerns, nine times out of the ten the dog is playing a game. It’s not that they are picky, it’s that they’ve learned how to get YOU as the pet parent to flip out.
Behavioral vs. Health Reasons for Picky Eating
Before you can address picky eating, you have to figure out which dog you have.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Has my dog finished a recent growth spurt? (May not need more food)
Is my puppy close to adult size? (Doesn’t need as much food as before)
Is my female dog about to go into heat (Hormones can influence appetite)
Has there been any stressful changes in our routine or home? (Stress can reduce food intake)
Is my dog comfortable in their eating environment?
Is the food and water bowl clean/sanitary?
Has my dog been seen by the veterinarian, and are they free of parasites?
Does my dog have diarrhea or other tummy upset?
Has my dog had a full dental in the last year? (Bad teeth are a common cause of picky eating)
Do I often respond to picky eating by adding toppers or changing food? (Common! We will dig into this below)
To determine if a dog’s picky eating habits are driven by environmental or behavioral factors, it’s crucial to observe their feeding patterns and the context surrounding their meals.
If a dog consistently eats well in certain circumstances but not in others, environmental factors might be at play. However, if the picky behavior persists in all situations and appears to be tied to their interactions with the owner or specific food preferences, behavioral factors may be more likely.
Be honest with yourself: identifying the root cause is the first step in addressing picky eating and finding effective solutions.
Why do some dogs not lick the bowl clean?
We don’t actually want our dogs scrambling to eat with excitement and licking the bowl clean! As a matter of fact, this is the opposite of a desirable behavior around food.
A lot of dogs are considered ‘picky’ when the truth is, they are simply mild-mannered and calm about their food. This is a good thing!
We want our dogs bored with their meals because:
It reduces bloat risk (slow, stress free eating is healthier)
It reduces obesity risk (dogs should stop eating when they are full)
Puppyhood is a time of rapid growth and development, and around the age range of 7 to 18 months (depending on size), many puppies may exhibit picky eating habits.
There are several factors that contribute to this phase of finicky eating, and the worst thing you can do at this point is to switch foods or start throwing tasty toppers into your dog’s food bowl.
Changes in activity levels and metabolism as they mature can impact their appetite. As a general rule, fully grown dogs eat less per pound than puppies! At some point, your teenage pup just won’t need as much food. That’s not pickiness.
Understanding that this is a phase in their development should help alleviate any concerns that you have.
Providing patience, maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, and offering a high-quality, balanced diet are essential to help puppies through this picky eating phase and ensure they grow up healthy and strong. We recommend feeding dry diets that meet WSAVA guidelines.
The Great Picky Eater Dog Remedy: Solving Pickiness in Dogs
Assuming that your dog is “picky” for behavioral reasons and not health ones, this section is for you!
Editors note: if you suspect ANY kind of health problem that may cause a dog to not eat, see your veterinarian! Our picky eater dog remedy is only for healthy dogs who are turning their nose up at food.
Step 1: Stop giving in! This is the hardest habit for pet parents to break. Resist the urge to change foods or top your dog’s bowl with treats and goodies. Everytime you do this, your dog learns that if they don’t eat, you will reward them with novel foods and tasty bites!
Step 2: Feed on a schedule. Offer food 2-3 times per day (your choice). Put the food down (remember, don’t make it fancy…balanced food only) and give your pup 10 minutes to eat. Set a timer and walk away! If your dog does not eat, come back and pick the bowl up. Do not offer food or treats until the next meal.
Yes, this requires a little tough love.
Step 3: Monitor intake using a kitchen scale. You may find that your dog simply doesn’t want as much food as you’ve been offering. Try cutting back a little bit and reducing your expectations for how much they need.
If you stick to this process, it should only take a week before your dog stops playing a game waiting for you to offer new food or treats. Don’t give in!
Troubleshooting: tips and tricks to encourage healthy eating habits
What if my dog is bored of their food?
The myth that dogs get bored with their food is a common misconception among pet owners. While it’s true that dogs, like humans, can enjoy variety in their diet, they don’t experience boredom with their food in the same way we might. This isn’t even something to be concerned about.
Can I incorporate fresh or canned food for health reasons?
Absolutely! A lot of people love to add canned and fresh foods to their dogs diet. Once you have followed the steps to reduce picky eating, you can begin to thoughtfully incorporate fresh and canned foods once again.
All unbalanced foods must be less than 10% of the diet. Instead of mixing it with the kibble, try using your fresh foods as training treats or stuffed into a TOPPL toy for enrichment (see on Amazon). Never use toppers to bribe your dog to eat.
What if my dog refuses to eat any meals?
If a dog refuses to eat meals for more than 2 days in a row, there is very likely to be an health issue at play and you MUST see your veterinarian. On the other hand, if your dog skips a day (or even up to two days) of meals but is otherwise energetic (especially if they will take a small treat you offer them as a test), stick it out. Do not let your dog play you!
It’s even ok if your picky eater nibbles at the food you offer, but doesn’t eat it all. A truly healthy dog that requires no veterinary care will NOT starve themselves to death. Follow the process.
Picky eaters losing weight
Rarely, a dog will present with picky eating and no apparent health issues that will skip meals to the point of losing weight.
This is not a normal healthy behavior and does require a veterinary visit. Some dogs are ‘hard keepers’ and the veterinarian can provide diet recommendations that have an appropriate balance of nutrition for dogs like this.
In particular, some breeds (usually working breeds such as farm dogs, poodles, and malinois) don’t eat much or at times don’t eat enough; this is largely related to genetics!
Farm dogs (Pyrenees for example) were bred to not need a lot of food. Malinois are high energy ‘buzzing’ breeds with fast metabolisms that usually require a scientifically formulated sport diet. Poodles in general are not very food motivated, because they were bred to please without food.
Even for dogs like this, people make the same mistakes that actually encourage bad eating habits. Most dogs will not let themselves die of starvation.
Feeding for a Healthy Body Weight in Dogs
The issue of pet obesity is a growing concern, with a significant number of dogs being overweight or obese. I bring this up because many “picky dogs” are actually overweight and do NOT need more food.
In the United States, for instance, it’s estimated that more than half of all dogs are overweight. This alarming trend can lead to various health problems, including joint pain, diabetes, heart disease, and a decreased life expectancy.
To combat this issue, responsible pet owners must take action. One key step is to consult with a veterinarian to determine your dog’s ideal weight and develop a suitable diet and exercise plan. This plan should include a balanced diet with appropriate portion control, regular physical activity, and minimizing high-calorie treats.
WSAVA is the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. It’s comprised of researchers and veterinarians from around the World, all focused on a common goal of improving animal health. Being the best WSAVA Approved Dog Food should signal a gold standard, however, there is a lot of confusion on this topic.
WSAVA does not actually endorse, approve, or recommend any specific brand of dog food.
Anybody who tells you otherwise is full of beans.
However, WSAVA has published a helpful set of guidelines for pet owners to review when choosing foods. In following these guidelines, dog parents can be assured that they are choosing a quality diet that meets the highest standards of formulation, safety, and nutritional adequacy.
Understanding WSAVA Approved Dog Food
In understanding that the WSAVA doesn’t actually approve, endorse, or recommend any specific brand of pet food, it’s essential to grasp the organization’s role in helping pet parents choose foods.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association sets forth common sense guidelines and standards for pet food manufacturers to follow. These things include:
Whether or not they employ a highly qualified nutritionist
Manufacturing practices, including whether the food is produced by a co-packer or made by the company selling it
Quality control, feeding trials and research, which indicate to pet owners that the brand is focused on nutritional health and consistency
These standards encompass nutritional balance, research, manufacturing, and safety protocols, ensuring that the food is suitable for pets and meets their specific dietary needs. Read the WSAVA guidelines for pet foods HERE.
Therefore, while the WSAVA itself does not pick favorites, its guidelines serve as a valuable reference point for pet owners to identify products that prioritize the health and well-being of their four-legged companions.
What are the WSAVA Approved Dog Foods?
As mentioned previously, no foods are actually approved or endorsed by WSAVA.
However, if we look at the guidelines objectively, it is pretty well established in the scientific community that 5 dog food brands undeniably meet or even exceed every WSAVA recommendation.
This means that these brands have highly qualified nutritionists on staff to formulate the diets, extensive quality control protocols, dedicated and thorough product testing in all stages of production, a database of feeding trails and published research, nutritional adaquecy statements, transparency, and owned facilities where the foods are manufactured.
Many other brands may come close to this standard. Some meet most of them at the basic level, and only a few brands exceed them.
Out of 1000’s of brands on the market, most actually fall short.
These five WSAVA compliant pet food brands that both meet and then exceed every recommendation outlined by the WSAVA include:
Purina
Royal Canin
Hill’s Science Diet
Eukanuba
Iam’s
Brands who claim to be WSAVA approved or WSAVA compliant
Some brands will post pages on their website or social media indicating that they too “meet” or “comply with” WSAVA guidelines. This is quite problematic for two reasons:
a. WSAVA recommendations for pet food are interpretive; it is up to the pet owner to interpret and verify a companies adherance, and determine how important they consider each recommendation.
b. The companies creating pages like this are often doing so with the intent of being misleading.
For example, many of them do not actually employ a single nutritionist. However, because at one time they hired a consultant firm to look over a recipe, they may claim that they “work with a team of nutrition specialists and veterinarians“.
To most pet owners, that sounds great..and that’s exactly what dog food manufacturers want them to think.
Here is what WSAVA says about qualified nutritionists:
Is the recipe developed by an experienced pet food formulator (MS or PhD in Animal Nutrition), a veterinarian, or a pet owner/breeder/trainer?
Recipe development is a complex process requiring knowledge of nutrition, raw materials, and processing not taught in veterinary school programs.
Trained and experienced formulators may have a degree (MS/PhD) in food science and technology to help guide ingredient selection and nutrient levels for health or disease management.
An individual with Board Certification by ACVN or ECVCN may also be cross-trained in pet food formulation or work in collaboration with experienced pet food formulators to help guide ingredient selection and nutrient levels.
While WSAVA doesn’t come out and blatantly say it, this recommendation speaks to the importance of choosing a food brand that has at least one qualified nutritionist on staff, who is in charge of formulating the diets.
A qualified nutritionist would be:
M.S. or PhD in Animal Nutrition
Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist
Does WSAVA Approve Pet Foods?
WSAVA does not approve pet foods.
There is no list of ‘WSAVA Certified’ brands, because that’s not the role WSAVA plays in this.
It is up to you as the consumer to read the WSAVA recommendations and contact the company to see how they answer your questions.
A great resource for this is the Pet Nutrition Alliance! They’ve put together a pet food manufacturers report with legitimate facts about almost every company possible.
Dog food companies that are committed to the welfare and health of pets often contribute to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). These contributions come in the form of financial support, sponsorships, and partnerships to assist WSAVA in its mission to establish and maintain high standards for pet nutrition.
It’s important to note that WSAVA does not endorse specific brands or products, and its guidelines are created independently of the pet food manufacturers who contribute. However, the involvement of dog food companies in supporting WSAVA reflects a shared dedication to advancing the overall well-being of pets by promoting responsible pet nutrition practices.
The financial support provided by dog food companies to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) is not inherently a conflict of interest, provided that the relationship is transparent and ethical.
It’s very important to note that ANY pet food manufacturer can contribute to science, research, and organizations like the WSAVA. Only a few do.
The benefits of WSAVA Compliant Dog Food
WSAVA compliant pet food offers a multitude of benefits for both pets and their owners. When you choose pet food that meets or exceeds WSAVA recommendations, you can be confident that you’re providing your pet with meal that meets the highest standards.
This is super important, given how much intentionally misleading and dangerous, unchecked marketing goes into pet foods! It’s hard to sort out what’s actually good, from what’s being sold to us.
The benefits of asking your pet food manufacturer to adhere to and exceed WSAVA guidelines include:
Nutritional Excellence: this ensures that good pet food is formulated to meet the specific dietary needs of pets, providing balanced and complete nutrition. This means your pet is more likely to receive the essential nutrients necessary for their overall health, and that it’s been proven with comprehensive testing, research, and feeding trials.
Safety Assurance: WSAVA compliant brands adhere to rigorous safety protocols, from ingredient sourcing to manufacturing processes. This can give pet owners peace of mind that the food they provide is safe for consumption.
Health and Well-Being: Choosing WSAVA compliant food can contribute to your pet’s long-term health and well-being, helping to prevent diet-related health issues (such as nutritional DCM) and ensuring that your pet is thriving.
Veterinarian Input: WSAVA’s guidelines are developed with the input of unbiased veterinary experts, so you can trust that the food is designed with your pet’s best interests in mind.
Basically put, we know that WSAVA compliant pet food brands are the absolute best you can choose. Why settle for anything less?
Labeling: Start by examining the product’s label. WSAVA compliant pet food should clearly state that it meets AFFCO or FEDIEF nutritional guidelines, providing a complete and balanced diet suitable for your pet’s life stage and needs, and have nutritional information that is easy to find.
Formulation: Does the company employ and utilize at least one highly qualified nutritionist? That’s a good sign that they are on the right track.
Manufacturing Standards: Research the manufacturer and their practices. Is the food manufactured by a “partner facility” or “co-packer”, or does the company own and operate their own facilities? Do they have comprehensive testing and quality control protocols?
Transparency: Reputable pet food companies often provide detailed information about their products, including the sources of ingredients and quality control measures. Transparency is a positive sign of compliance. If they make it difficult for you to obtain honest information about nutritional levels, manufacturing practices, or who formulates the food, run.
Research: the best pet food companies will have ongoing dedication to science, research, and feeding trials.
Consult with a Veterinarian: If in doubt, consult with a veterinarian. Veterinary professionals are well-versed in understanding WSAVA guidelines and can provide guidance on selecting compliant pet food.
Remember that while WSAVA sets the standards, it doesn’t specifically endorse or approve brands or products. However, evaluating pet food based on these criteria can help you make informed choices that align with WSAVA’s commitment to pet health and nutrition.
Want more information about how to choose the best food for your dog? Check out some of our popular articles below:
It’s no secret that I’ve become a passionate advocate for good nutrition when it comes to my dogs. At one time I fell for some very common dog food marketing gimmicks and my dogs suffered as a result.
As a matter of fact, my experience seeing my heart dog harmed by a popular ‘high quality’ dog food sent me down a huge rabbit hole that I will not soon dig out of.
There are 300-400 new dog food brands every year in the U.S. All of them are trying to get the money out of your wallet, and will tell you what they have to in order to make it happen.
Are you wanting to avoid being confused or even scammed by pet food industry marketing tricks and misinformation? This post is for you!
5 Dog Food Marketing Gimmicks
#1 Dog Food Marketing Gimmick: “Family Owned”
A common phrase seen from dog food companies is the word “Family Owned and Operated”.
This statement makes dog owners feel like they are supporting a small business, helping a neighbor, or purchasing from a company that is run by people, not corporations. It feels good to purchase from “family owned” companies that appear to have been passed down from generation to generation.
I hate to burst your bubble here, but this is a big gimmick.
Of course, many pet food brands and manufacturing facilities have been passed from one family member to the next generation. This happens in a lot of businesses and it’s great, sure.
Small ‘family owned’ operations are just as susceptible to cutting corners as the big guys.
Unfortunately, small business playing in the big world of pet food are more likely to cut corners, because they just don’t have the clout or affordable access to resources, funding, research, and the supply chain that bigger companies do.
We see this at play with Fromm Family Foods. This family organization employs a lot of people and sells millions of dollars worth of food each year, yet, they don’t have a single qualified nutritionist on staff and never have. They do no feeding trials and their research efforts dried up circa 1990.
We can reasonably assume that isn’t the only place they are keeping their operation lean!
Midwest Pet foods (the makers of Sportmix, Earthborn, Ultimates, Venture, CanineX and Unrefined) actively market that they are a “family owned” business. They have been under fire from the FDA for sanitation practices at their plants that have resulted in harm or death to over 300 dogs to date. Midwest does not employ a single qualified nutritionist, either.
A lot of dog food companies rely on smaller ‘family owned’ manufacturing plants (that as above, employ 100’s of people and qualify as medium to large businesses) and a lot of those plants absolutely do have problems.
Family owned sounds nice on paper, but as above, just because Bob Junior now owns the plant instead of Bob Senior does not mean that they are actually producing something better for your pet. Chances are, they are just as money-driven as any other business out there.
#2 – Pet Food Brands with “No Recalls”
A lot of people mistakenly believe that “no recalls” is an indication that a pet food company is higher quality.
Many times however, companies issue recalls voluntarily out of an abundance of caution. They should, too, because the alternative to issuing recalls is literally to sweep issues under the rug and hope it doesn’t become a problem.
Of course, sometimes a company will have a very negative recall history. There is a huge difference between that and a recall that a big company issues for quality control reasons. It’s important to figure out how to sort out the difference.
Primal Pet Foods and Darwins are examples of brands with inexcusable recalls who have received some damning warning letters from the FDA as a result of sanitation and nutritional practices at their “family owned” plants.
Champion Pet Foods (the makers or Orijen and Acana) knew they had food on the shelves made with beef tallow that had been contaminated with euthanasia drug. Instead of recalling it from pet owners who had already purchased the food, they quietly pulled pallets from the supply chain and didn’t say a word otherwise.
People unknowingly fed it to their pets…and while no pets appear to have been harmed, the ethics of it are appalling.
A company attempting to uphold a history of “no recalls” is going to be much less likely to recall products for small (but notable) issues. Your pet gets to be the guinea pig.
My point here is this. “No recalls” doesn’t always mean that a company is operating ethically, safely, or with transparency.
So instead of judging a book by that cover, look at the nature of the recalls, how quickly they were responded to, and why they happened in the first place. Some companies should absolutely be avoided. Others? There is more to the story.
Thank those companies for recalling instead of letting pet owners bear the brunt of a human mistake.
#3 – A “Team of Highly Qualified Nutritionists & Veterinarians”
Did you know that the solid majority of pet food brands on the market don’t have a single qualified nutritionist on staff?
But if you look at their website, you’d be made to believe that the company has a massive team of highly qualified and highly educated people sitting in their home office, dedicating their time to formulating food for your pet.
I’m sure you’re starting to catch on here, but this too is a marketing gimmick.
With rare exception, what companies really mean when they say they have a ‘team’ of qualified people, is that they pay off-site 3rd party consultants to look over their recipes.
In many cases, those “highly qualified” nutritional consultants may do nothing more than check a box and verify that on paper, the food is nutritionally complete.
Off-site nutrition consultants have no allegiance to the brand or the formulas being marketed. A solid majority of foods on the market are actually generic recipes that were spit out by a computer.
While this usually results in foods that are generally good at keeping pets alive, it’s a far cry from the nutritional research and formulation processes of companies who actually have qualified people on staff.
This practice of marketing the idea of a ‘team of nutritionists’ is also very, very misleading to pet parents who want to know that a lot of dedication was actually made to their pet’s food!
Our recommendation? Look for food brands that have board certified Veterinary Nutritionists or at minimum, people with a PhD in Animal Nutrition on staff.
Tread cautiously though, because companies use all kinds of slick language to bypass actually saying that they don’t employ people for nutritional formulation and food science.
If they didn’t reply to the Pet Nutrition Alliance or refused to answer? Run. Transparent companies have nothing to hide.
#4 – The “Good” Ingredients List
Marketing has taught all of us to be very, very wary of the ingredients in our dog food.
As a matter of fact, it was Blue Buffalo who largely pioneered this concept when they launched their ads showing pet parents how to compare ingredients.
The problem? Most “good” ingredients lists only look that way because of…you guessed it…marketing gimmicks!
Not only have companies strategically rearranged their ingredients lists to appeal to pet parents, they have intentionally replaced a few highly nutritious ingredients with “nicer sounding” foods that don’t provide anywhere near the same energy, fiber, protein, fat, mineral, or vitamin content.
Piggy-backing off the previous section of this blog, it’s important to keep in mind that many of these “nice” sounding ingredients lists and “quality” substitutions are being created and promoted by companies who have no qualified nutritionist on staff.
This includes Blue Buffalo, who came up with the entire concept of judging a food by the ingredients in the first place but only recently (2022) hired a veterinary nutritionist to correctly formulate their diets.
Because as we are learning, this is all about marketing.
Here are some common ways that dog food companies organize their ingredients lists to sell to you.
#1 – “Meat is the first 5 ingredients!”
This implies that the food has more meat in it than other foods.
However, it’s smoke and mirrors. Instead of using 10oz of chicken, they used 2oz of chicken, 2oz of dried chicken, 2oz of chicken liver, 2oz of whitefish, and 2oz of dried lamb.
The meat content is the same, it’s just been split up. Then all they have to do is split up their grains (by using multiple sources or through ingredient splitting) and other ingredients so that none of those weigh more than any of the meats.
#2 – “Fresh meat is the first ingredient”
Fresh meat is heavy, so it’s nearly always at the top of the ingredients list (which is based on weight prior to extrusion).
Fresh meat is 70% water.
Companies want you to believe that your dry kibble is loaded with meat because they show you a photo of a beautiful chicken breast and an ingredients list with “real chicken” as the first ingredient.
But after the fresh chicken is extruded into kibble, the moisture (and thus a solid majority of that heavy fresh meat) is gone. In many cases, the finished kibble will have less fresh meat in it than other ingredients.
This is why some companies use a meat meal, which is dehydrated before it’s used in the extrusion process and contains a lot more nutrition as a result. A kibble that contains some kind of meat meal or meat by-product meal will always have more meat based protein, amino acids and nutrients in it.
#3 – “Includes spinach, blueberries, and carrots”
In an attempt to appeal to consumers who want a ‘fresh’ or ‘holistic’ option, some kibble foods will include a range of fruits and vegetables from spinach to pomegranate and lay claim to the antioxidant benefits.
The bag will often contain beautiful and colorful photos of these ingredients, too.
But like fresh meat, fruits and vegetables are mostly water. To meet nutritional requirements, these cannot be too high on the ingredients list, either, otherwise it throws off the density and nutritional balance of the finished dry kibble food. They are nearly always listed near or after salt, indicating that they are less than 1% of the overall formulation.
As one board certified veterinary nutritionist put it, “it is fairy dust”.
Skip this and top your dogs food with real fresh fruit and veg. (Up to 5-10% of the overall diet is acceptable for treats and toppers like this).
#4– Ingredient Splitting
This common trick allows dog food manufacturers to take a whole ingredient and split it up into multiple parts on the ingredient list.
This changes our perception of how much of that ingredient is in the food, as it can either be perceived as being “more” (for example, multiple meat sources as in the #1 example above), or “less” (by pushing the now lower-weight ingredients down on the ingredients list).
You’ve found ingredient splitting when you see a brand utilizing multiple forms of the same ingredient. For example:
“Peas, pea protein, whole peas, pea fiber, pea flour, green peas”
#5 – “Holistic, Super-Premium, Functional, Human Grade”
There are many common words used by dog food companies to sell their products, and the vast majority of them are completely unregulated terms with absolutely not legal definition.
Holistic, for example, is often used to indicate a food that is somehow more ‘natural’. It’s a word that has been misused for so long that people associate it with a perception, not an actual meaning. Any food company can grab this word and throw it into their marketing.
Given how similar 99% of dog foods actually are to each other, even the ‘holistic’ ones, this particular term lacks any real authority to designate one food as ‘healthier’ or ‘higher quality’ than the next.
Super Premium is another word with no meaning at all. To the point of being laughable. As if being ‘premium’ weren’t enough, THIS food option is SUPER premium, ooooh!
See my point here? Words like “Super Premium” are there to make you feel some sort of way about the dog food. There is no legal definition for this term either.
Functional is the new “it” buzzword, courtesy of “Integrative, Functional, Holistic” Veterinarians and practitioners. Honestly though? All food should be functional. It is supposed to support health, right down to the cells.
I’m honestly concerned that some dog food companies have to tell us their food is ‘functional’ to get our attention.
Human Grade is complicated. There are some very loose regulations surrounding the use of this word. In theory, the ingredients should be sourced from suppliers where the intention of the food is for human consumption, and made in kitchens that prepare human foods, for example.
But once ‘human’ food is put into a dog food recipe, it’s no longer human grade as the final product is intended for use by animals. Not humans.
Food from suppliers intended for use in dog food doesn’t have to be trash; and truthfully, it’s well regulated. Keep in mind that the ‘human’ supply chain is just as susceptible to problems related to salmonella or otherwise.
Choose companies that have good ethics and practices and don’t waste your money, hopes, and dreams on the overpriced and wasteful ‘human grade’ marketing gimmick.
Your beloved pet is a dog, not a human. Given the opportunity, they will tear into your trash and happily eat all the guts out of a chicken carcass.
Anytime we post an article like this, we get a million questions about “‘well, “ok fine, what SHOULD I feed instead?”
Do you want the honest answer? Stop looking at the marketing and the ingredients lists. Look around at the literal billions of dogs that are quietly eating and thriving on veterinary recommended food brands. Those brands have qualified nutritionists on staff and dump millions of dollars every year into nutritional research and feeding trials.
For a comprehensive (and growing) list that addresses common brands/formulas as it relates to large + giant breed puppies (in particular), check out this spreadsheet:
You can also check your brand against the data in the Pet Nutrition Alliance Database. Notice how many brands only use nutritional consultants, and that’s if they even bothered to include their information in this database.
You may have seen that the Great Dane community often recommends Victor Dog Food. Is Victor Dog food good for Great Danes? Why is Victor so popular among Dane owners? Can Great Dane puppies eat Victor food?
We’re bringing you the science, stats, and facts today on choosing Victor dog food and yeah, what I have to say about this may be controversial.
If you are looking for the best food to feed your Dane, this post is for you. I’ve done the research for you!
Is Victor Dog Food Good for Great Danes?
I’m going to come out and say this, but please make sure to continue reading into the post because I’m backing my stance up with actual science. Here it is:
Most Victor Formulas are incorrect for Great Danes.
Many popular Victor dog foods have the WRONG balance of calcium to phosphorus, and contain excessively high levels of calcium to begin with.
As a matter of fact, here is a list of things that can be caused by incorrectly balanced food and excessive calcium, especially when fed to Great Dane puppies under the age of 2:
HOD & Panosteitis
Retained cartilaginous cores
Disturbed endochondral ossification
Delayed skeletal maturation & growth of bone length
Abnormal bone remodeling
Skeletal disorders such as incorrect hip or elbow development
Conformational faults including flat feet (affects dogs of all ages)
Heart Disease (affects dogs of all ages)
Poor breeding outcomes (including small litter sizes)
Calcium and skeletal disorders in Great Danes go hand in hand, especially for puppies who are exposed to a high amount of calcium in their diet.
Are you feeding a Victor dog food that is not correctly balanced for your Great Dane?
Calcium, Phosphorus, & Great Dane Puppies
To understand why many Victor dog food that are commonly recommended in the Dane community are incorrect to feed, we have to first understand what appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels are.
Great Dane Puppies should be fed a diet with the following ratios:
Calcium to phosphorus ratio of 1.2 – 1 or 1:1
Calcium guaranteed analysis below 1.3%, and ideally around 1.1%
Balanced vitamin D levels
Calcium amount below 4.5g per 1000kCAL, and ideally below 3.5g per 1000kCal
Why does this matter?
Because study after study shows that excessive intake of calcium, and calcium that isn’t balanced correctly with phosphorus (and vitamin D), leads to skeletal problems and bone growth disorders.
Too low of calcium is also bad, however, that’s a problem seen primarily in raw and home cooked diets, not in commercially prepared diets that meet AAFCO guidelines.
Dane Puppies will utilize nearly all of the calcium fed to them, and it is believed that adult giant breed dogs in general are less able to deal with excessive minerals (including calcium) as well. Basically put, if a Great Danes’ food has too much or too little calcium, it can be disastrous for their bone health.
To further complicate things, nutrients such as vitamin D play a role in the bioavailability of the calcium and phosphorus provided in the diet, and zinc may as well.
Many people believe that knuckling is the only growth disorder that Great Dane puppies face. Knuckling is the most obvious, but not the most dangerous.
Knuckling results from other nutritional factors, not necessarily just calcium, as knuckling is related to laxity in the tendons and excess weight on underdeveloped joints.
Just because a puppy doesn’t knuckle and seems to ‘grow fine’ on a particular food, doesn’t mean that food is the best choice.
Many growth disorders related to nutrition or even genetics are not apparent until the dog is slightly older, in pain, becomes lame, or presents with poor bone health and structural problems.
Correct structure and build of the Great Dane is part genetics, part nutrition, and part environmental factors.
While we don’t love any Victor formula (we will cover this more below), there are a few popular foods that, based on calcium content and the CA/PH ratio alone we would not feed.
This data below is based on the GENERAL analysis, not the Guaranteed Analysis (which Victor gives us very little data on, unfortunately).
The actual calcium levels may be even higher or lower than listed in the general analysis. It seems that Victor doesn’t do a lot of testing on the actual nutrient levels in their foods, which is also problematic.
When I inquired with Victor via email to clarify their general analysis information, they directed me to their 800 number instead. The fact that I have to run around in circles to obtain relevant nutrition information in writing is a red flag.
Name
Calcium
CA/PH Ratio
AAFCO Large Breed?
Victor Professional (Purple Bag)
1.76%
1.3 to 1
Yes
Victor Multi-Pro (Yellow Bag)
1.71%
1.4 to 1
Yes
Victor High Energy (Red Bag)
1.69%
1.2 to 1
Yes
Victor Hi-Pro Plus (Teal Bag)
2.39%
1.5 to 1
No
Victor Beef & Rice
1.77%
1.4 to 1
Yes
Victor Chicken Meal & Rice
1.37
1.3 to 1
Yes
Victor Grain Free (ANY type)
Varies
Varies
Varies
Some of the foods listed above DO have the AAFCO statement indicating that they meet the nutritional levels for large breed growth. Essentially this means that their calcium content is less than 1.8% on a dry matter basis.
In our opinion, 1.8% is MUCH to high for a Great Dane, we like to see 1.2% or less.
All formulas on that list above, regardless of their AAFCO statement, have unbalanced calcium to phosphorus ratios for Great Danes, with one exception (the Victor Hi-Energy red bag), and even that still has a high calcium content (1.67%).
It’s important to note that a Hi-Energy formula is meant to provide extra nutrition (in this formulation, they use a lot of fat). Excess nutrition is ALSO linked to orthopedic growth disorders, so that food is another example of one that should not be fed to Great Danes under the age of 2.
The two most popular foods also have high calcium levels as a whole, which exceed the recommended safe upper limit of 4.5g per 1000kCal.
Victor Professional at 4.7g per 1000kCal
Victor Beef & Rice at 5.4g per 1000kCal
Both of those formulas are popular among Dane owners who feed them to puppies, and we’re not sure why. The analysis alone goes against every reasonable guideline on the topic.
There is one food that I found among Victor foods that has a small label on it indicating that it’s for ‘big dogs’. That is the Elite Canine, green bag. It has a calcium to phosphorus ratio of 1.3 to 1 or 1.2 to 1 (depending on the analysis), approximately 3.4g per 1000kCal, and is an “all life stages” formula (essentially, this is puppy food).
Do not go running to get that formula without finishing this blog post, though, as Elite may also be problematic!
Is Victor Dog Food Good?
We don’t like to food bash around here.
One of my biggestpet peeves in the dog focused social communities are statements such as:
Truth time: all of those statements above are based on misinformation and classism. The misinformation that leads to these statements is often dangerous and frustrating, too. (I’ll be covering each in different blog posts).
We have no tolerance for bashing foods that are correctly balanced and at a price point that dog owners can afford. A lot of marketing goes into ‘premium’ pet foods to make us feel like they are healthier or better for our pets, but it’s all marketing.
Of course, you want to choose the best option for your budget, and that is where science and information comes into play. Many people choose Victor because it’s marketed as “Super Premium” and comes at a reasonable price point.
You will notice that we don’t food bash, but we DO point out legitimate factors to consider when choosing nutrition for your pet. We look past marketing and past a lot of the needless, inflammatory, and misguided statements listed above.
PhD in Animal Nutrition, ideally companion animal nutrition
To put this simply, the “head chef” at Victor Pet foods has an animal science degree buffered by a simple, inexpensive online certificate in companion animals, from an organization focused primarily on livestock. He does not have even basic nutrition credentials, let alone a veterinary background.
While Victor does collaborate with consultants, they aren’t clear about the scope of that relationship or the qualifications of the consultants.
It’s important to understand that most times, what this really means is that a recipe in written form was signed-off by a 3rd party, or tested in an off-site lab for verification of nutrient content.
Just because a food meets AAFCO minimums, does not mean it was thoughtfully and professionally designed to provide optimum nutrition. For giant breed dogs, this is an important consideration as they have very particular nutritional requirements.
One of the greatest faults of many dog food brands is that they don’t have formulas which were designed and tested specifically to properly support large and giant breed growth.
Of course, some dog foods have the correct ratios, but were they designed for that purpose? Or do they just happen to meet the AAFCO minimum guidelines on paper?
We prefer foods that were developed, by qualified nutritionists, specifically to support the slow, even growth and healthy bone development of large and giant breed puppies.
Calcium Levels & Great Dane Puppy Growth
The science of calcium and the calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D link to bone growth issues and poor bone modeling becomes more and more clear as research is done.
When we look at food brands that have qualified nutrition staff, who do feeding trials, and who do a lot of research, we see MUCH different analysis from their large and giant breed formulas than we see from most, if not all Victor formulas.
Science-backed companies have cutting-edge nutritional profiles and their formulas should be the baseline upon which other true large and giant breed puppy formulas are built.
Unfortunately, Victor foods does not meet any of these basic requirements and most (if not all) of their formulas end up missing the mark. Notice how the Victor formula is lower in protein, much higher in fat, and higher in calcium, too.
A note about protein: many people choose food for their Great Dane based off the protein level. This is an outdated practice with many studies showing that the protein level is not a factor in the development of growth disorders.
Too low of protein can actually be detrimental to proper growth, and may result in excessive intake of calcium.
Do Great Danes Do Well on Victor Food?
Anecdotally, many people cite that their Great Dane does well on Victor foods. Fixing an issue with chronic loose stools seems to be a common positive comment that we see from Dane owners who switched to Victor.
Many Victor dog food formulas contain inulin (a prebiotic) and probiotics, so this isn’t a surprise.
Good stools happen on many other brands as well. While good gut health is super important, it’s not the only sign of good health, however.
Many dogs with shiny coats and perfect stools die in their sleep from unchecked heart disease that presented with very few symptoms. When evaluating the health of the dog, we’re not just looking for good stools.
Additionally, most Great Dane owners are unable to properly evaluate their dogs movement and structure. As a result may not see an issue with poor angulation, wonky movement, swollen knuckles, turned out limbs, or flat and splayed feet. These are all things where genetics, environment, and nutrition play a role.
For perspective, check out this young Great Dane. In the first image, she’s being fed Victor foods. Notice her feet after being switched to a more appropriate food. She no longer has swollen ankles, and her feet are providing a much better, stronger platform to support her weight.
This was a positive and notable change for multiple dogs in this same breeding program, not just the one in this photo. I know this dog personally and her feet improved in a matter of 2 weeks on the food switch.
Does Victor Dog Food Cause Breeding Issues?
We prefer to rely on science rather than anecdotes, but we should note that MANY reproductive veterinarians advise clients to stay away from Victor foods and recommend using well-researched, specially designed formulas from Pro Plan and Royal Canin instead.
Anecdotally, there is a huge volume of reports from breeders whose dogs were struggling on Victor. Low birth weights, stillbirth, and small litter sizes are just some of the suspicious volume of noted complaints.
This problem could be related to certain ingredients, bioavailability, or the nutritional balance of protein, fat & carbs.
We will never know, however, because Victor does NOT do any research and does not perform any feeding trials.
Does Victor Dog Food Cause DCM?
Many studies have shown, on repeat, that there are two main factors contributing to dogs developing heart disease (DCM) from dog food.
An abundance of peas, potatoes, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, or similar legumes used in the first 10 ingredients.
Foods that do not have a board certified Veterinary Nutritionist (DACVN) or PhD in Animal Nutrition on staff to formulate the foods (incorrect formulation).
It’s not about being ‘grain free’. There are confirmed cases of DCM on all kinds of foods, with or without grains.
There is a lot of misinformation about grain-free dog foods and DCM.
We do not believe that all Victor dog foods will cause heart disease, but, we encourage all Dane owners to stay away from Grain Free foods of all types. Here is an ingredients list from Victor Grain-Free.
The lack of qualified formulation staff and unbalanced calcium levels should give dog owners pause about considering this food for their Great Dane.
Of course, if it works for you and you love it, we’re not going to bash you for feeding it. We do however, want to make sure you are well-equipped with legitimate information.
Dog food recalls are a scary business for pet parents. In 2023, Victor Pet Foods issued a massive recall of all formulas in their line because of salmonella contamination. As the details emerged, we learned that they had been selling contaminated food for nearly a year (if not longer). Before that recall, Purina voluntarily recalled a small selection of veterinary food (“Elemental EL” to treat allergies) from the shelf after receiving two reports of dogs who got ill (both dogs are fine now).
Recalls simply mean that a product is being removed from store shelves and distribution channels. Most times, consumers who purchased the product before the recall can request an exchange or refund.
The 2022 Purina Recall is a great example of a recall that was done by the company out of an abundance of caution. They issued this recall even though numerous bloggers, influencers, and pet owners would present the issue as a source of panic and fear.
Are Dog Food Recalls Bad?
Marketing has taught us to believe that recalls are a bad thing, or that recalls indicate that a company is not honest, truthful, or diligent.
Many people reward pet food companies with no recall history, not realizing how nuanced this topic is.
Of course, sometimes recalls are indicative of a much bigger problem. There are times when a company has been negligent or has poor quality control practices. (Victor, we’re looking at you!). If a company is particularly resistant to recalling a product, the FDA can require them to do so.
Recalls can be an indication that a company is doing the right thing, too.
Most of the time, recalls are done for very good reasons. There are numerous reasons for recalls, and many times, it’s actually related to a supplier, not the company that manufactured the product.
Dog Food Companies With No Recalls
Unfortunately, the negative feelings generated about dog food recalls tend to make the idea of “no recalls” appealing.
Having “no recalls” is a major reason that dog owners are drawn to certain brands. All of the largest brands (Purina, Royal Canin, Hill’s) have had recalls. These are mega-billion dollar (yes, billion) companies that feed a lot of dogs.
Having no recalls is a red flag.
Here is a list of reasons why a dog food company with no recalls can be a red flag:
#1 – Small Market Share
A company with a small market share (compared to a large company such as Purina, for example) has millions fewer dogs eating their food. If an issue comes up that could justify a recall, it’s much easier to sweep it under the rug instead.
#2 – Recalls are Bad for Marketing
For companies that actively market their history of “no recalls”, it can be an exceptionally tough pill to swallow if they do run into issues in the future. This can make a smaller company with a small market share more likely to avoid recalling something that it really should.
#3 – Financial Instability & Small Dog Food Companies
A smaller company with no recalls is also less likely to have the financial resources to accept the hit that comes to the bottom line. Not only are recalls bad for their public image but recalls can be devastating to their profits.
When we as consumers applaud companies with no recalls, and avoid companies with recalls, we incentivize companies to keep potentially dangerous products on the shelves.
Dog Food Company Recall Issues
Here are some recall issues that have popped up in the past, from companies who denied doing a recall (because remember, recalls are bad for the public perception of the brand). Notice the blatant disregard for the pet owners, and for the pets they are feeding.
Champion Pet Foods (Orijen & Acana)
This company has had multiple issues that should have warranted a recall out of caution, however, none were issued.
In 2003, some of their products may have been contaminated by cows that had mad cow disease. Champion knew it was a potential problem and indicated that they were willing to offer refunds for concerned pet owners, but no recall was issued.
In 2018, a supplier delivered beef tallow that was contaminated with Phenobarbital (a euthanasia drug). Champion Pet Foods used the contaminated tallow in production and many bags of food were distributed to suppliers. Once the FDA stepped in, the company retrieved unsold products but did not issue a recall for food that had already been sold.
Champion (Acana / Orijen) did not recall food that was potentially contaminated with Phenobarbital.
In 2019, the FDA released statements about a potential link between grain-free pet foods and the development of deadly nutritional DCM.(Since this time, many studies have shown a link between excessive use of peas, lentils, potatoes, and legumes and dogs developing heart conditions; these ingredients are common in grain-free foods).
Champion Pet Foods, despite being implicated many times in early confirmed and ongoing reports, and despite making certain formulas that are loaded with suspect ingredients (lentils and peas) did not recall their grain-free foods. To this day they continue to deny any link.
Victor Pet Foods
Victor Foods prides itself on never having had a recall, and it’s a major reason many people choose the brand.
However, Victor has been implicated many times by pet owners and even veterinarians for dogs becoming sick on their formulas. Nutritional DCM reports have been confirmed (see THIS group for more information) and a lot of reproductive veterinarians will tell you that breeding issues are common for dogs fed Victor.
Of course, they did end up issuing a massive recall in 2023 that prompted many of us to dig deeper into their practices. Turns out that Victor has been selling contaminated food for months; they were not testing their products for salmonella.
Darwin’s Raw Pet Food
In 2019, several kinds of Darwin’s Raw Pet food were found to be contaminated with salmonella. This is an unfortunately common problem with raw dog food in particular, and Darwin’s is not the only one to face pushback from the FDA regarding their practices.
As we see above, some companies don’t recall things that should be recalled. This is a common practice with many stories we will never hear about (because it’s easy to hide small mistakes).
Other companies recall things where the fact that there was an issue in the first place is alarming. Let’s dig into this:
Midwestern Pet Foods (Sportmix, Wholesomes, Earthborn Holistic, Pro Pac)
Midwestern Pet Foods was found to have serious issues with its manufacturing facilities, indicating poor overall quality control and testing practices.
Many formulas were recalled because of salmonella and aflatoxins (both are deadly and yes, many dogs died).
This is a good example of a brand where recalls are an indication of bad practices, and should be a clear red flag to pet owners that it may be best to avoid this brand altogether.
Knowing that Midwestern Pet Foods had seriously nasty production practices in the first place should be alarming to all pet owners.
Hill’s Science Diet Prescription Vitamin D Recall
Like many brands (including Fromm and Purina), Hill’s has had to issue a recall regarding vitamin D levels in certain formulas of their foods.
Purina issued its recall in 2022 after just two dogs turned up sick; the recall was voluntary and initiated by the company out of an abundance of caution.
In the case of Hill’s, it was determined that they did NOT test their vitamin pre-mix before using it in the product. For a smaller company, this wouldn’t have likely been a huge deal. For a large company like Hill’s, many dogs were made ill by this oversight.
This is an issue and Hill’s has been held accountable for it. It’s not a mistake that they are likely to make again and while we still recommend Hill’s, if you feel uncomfortable feeding it that’s understandable.
Critical Thinking & Educated Consumerism
This of course brings up the discussion about being an educated consumer and using critical thinking skills to make decisions.
Recalls save lives. In a perfect world, no dog food company would ever need to recall something. But it’s bound to happen, especially for companies producing food at a large scale.
Some recalls are damaging and very alarming.
Some recalls are helpful and done with safety and ethics in mind.
Some recalls are potentially damaging, and the company learns from them.
Some recalls that should happen, never do.
It’s important to be alarmed for the right reasons.
The 2022 Purina Vitamin D recall has generated more social media attention than almost any other in recent history. It’s a small recall related to just one product line, with no deaths or serious damage. In the history of recalls, especially among recalls that have caused death and damage, this should be a blip on the radar.
To put this into perspective, Fromm Foods had a vitamin D recall in 2021…I bet you never even heard of it. There are very recent recalls as we speak from Fresh Pet and Primal Pet Foods as well.
Despite this, bloggers, influencers, and pet owners are out in force with inflammatory headlines:
“Purina has TOXIC ingredients”
“Purina recall indicates deadly food!”
“Dogs Sick from Purina Food”
“Toxicity in Purina Foods”
These kinds of misleading statements drive distrust for Purina and lead uneducated consumers to believe that all Purina foods have been recalled and that Purina itself is a bad company.
Many of the same people who make these statements give a pass to Champion, Midwestern, Mid-America(Victor), and Darwin, even though their recalls (or lack thereof) are infinitely more dangerous and unethical.
How to Choose a Pet Food Company
It’s no surprise that choosing a pet food company is hard; there are thousands of brands on the market, all with fancy labels vying for your attention.
There are many ways to choose pet food, and some of the most popular ideas are actually among the worst reasons!
Here is a list of things that many people prioritize when choosing a pet food, not realizing that they may be being misled:
The ingredients list (which is easy to build around consumer tastes, not necessarily quality nutrition)
The recalls list or lack of recalls (the whole point of this post)
Unregulated marketing terms such as holistic, super-premium, or biologically appropriate
Higher price point (which may mean nothing at all in terms of nutrition and quality)
False claims about the food preventing or treating certain conditions such as cancer
Pet store employees, influencers, and poorly qualified “canine nutritionists” who promote certain products as healthier or higher quality
Are you falling subject to any of those common practices above? Take a step back and evaluate the credentials and qualifications of the people you source nutrition information from. Most nutritional information fed to us by pet stores, influencers, and food brands is nothing more than marketing.
In the world of pet nutrition, the mention of byproducts in pet food often raises eyebrows and sparks concern among pet owners. We’ve all seen the commentary about by-products in dog food being “leftovers scraped off the slaughterhouse floor”. (Spoiler alert, that’s propaganda, not truth).
It’s essential to put initial apprehensions behind when reading this blog post because I’m about to change your understanding of by-products!
When sourced from companies committed to rigorous scientific standards and uncompromising quality, these ingredients can be a valuable and nutritious choice for your pet’s diet. Do I even say that by-products are biologically appropriate for dogs? Yeah, I’m going to go there.
In this blog post, we will explore the often misunderstood realm of byproducts in pet food, shedding light on predatory pet food marketing, misinformation, and nonsense in the dog nutrition industry.
What are By-Products in Dog Food?
Here is a list of things that you may see on your dog food label which indicates that by-products have been used in the formula:
Meat By-Product Meal
Chicken By-Product Meal
Meat By-Products
Liver, Kidney, Lung, Heart, Tongue, or Spleen in any form
Brewer’s Rice
Cartilage
Bone Meal
Blood Meal
Beef Cheek
Beef Pizzle
Chicken Paws
Gelatin
Fat
You may be surprised to learn that many dog foods and dog treats contain by-products, even if they aren’t labeled as such.
Brewer’s Rice is a by-product. It’s the tiny bits of rice left over from milling. They have the same nutritional value as whole pieces of rice, but aren’t ‘pretty’ so they are sorted out and sold as an inexpensive by-product.
Author’s Note: the EU (European Union) defines by-products differently than the U.S. This is simply a matter of language and semantics; however, the concept remains the same.For this post as a U.S.-based blog, we are using ‘By-Products’ somewhat interchangeably with ‘Co-Products’ to avoid confusion.
Are By-Products in Dog Food Bad?
The word ‘by-products’ conjures up visions of trash, scraps, and junk scraped off the factory floor. Many people have a visceral reaction to the word ‘by-products’ and will say they would never dream of feeding them to their dog.
This always makes me chuckle because many of these same people will turn around and offer their dog a freeze-dried liver treat, bully stick, or bowl full of raw dog food (which is loaded with by-products such as spleen, cartilage, and bone).
The actual definition of a by-product is simply this: “an incidental or secondary product made in the manufacture or synthesis of something else”.
Oxford Languages
Cream of Tartar, commonly used in Snickerdoodle cookies, is a natural by-product of winemaking!
Whey, commonly used for its generous protein content, is a by-product of cheesemaking.
Rennet, which is necessary to make many cheeses, is a by-product coming from the stomach of ruminant animals.
Leather is a by-product (co-product) of the beef industry.
Whether you like it or not, if you feed your dog the following items you are feeding by-products:
Bully stick / Beef Pizzle (which is made from bull penis)
Freeze-dried liver or other organs
Chicken paws
Poultry necks
Freeze-dried duck heads
Pig ears
Spleen, heart, kidney, lung, etc.
Eggshells
By-products (co-products) are found in many places, not just pet foods! Many by-products we humans use and consume daily are not labeled as by-products (or co-products), but that’s what they are.
What is the By-Product Meal in Dog Food?
Here is where we can dig into this discussion. Chicken By-Product meal is the first ingredient in one of our most commonly recommended foods, Royal Canin Giant Breed.
That word ‘by-products’ sounds gross and cheap, when really, it’s exactly what a dog needs in their diet. Allow me to explain.
If you give a dog a whole dead chicken, they will first dig into the organs. They also want the bones, tendons, and cartilage. Then some fat and skin. Finally they will eat the muscle meat.
Dogs need meat, bone, organ, and cartilage in their diet. These things are incredibly nutritious!
When you see “chicken by-product meal”, you are seeing an ingredient that contains a nutritious dehydrated meal made of those things: meat, bone, organ, and cartilage.
These ingredients come from the chicken meat processing industry. They are considered ‘by-products’ because unlike chicken wings or breasts, they are not widely consumed by humans.
By utilizing by-products in pet food, we’re making a conscious, eco-friendly choice to reduce the impact that our diets and our pet’s diets have on the Earth.
Now think of the dog food brands that rely on “fresh meats”. Those are brands that intentionally turn away the nutritious parts of the slaughtered animals such as the bones, organs, and cartilage.
They are not only being wasteful, but they are ignoring valuable nutrition.
AAFCO defines meat by-products as follows: “rendered product from mammal tissues, exclusive of any added hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach, and rumen contents”.
While you may have read that ‘by-products’ in pet food are “slaughterhouse waste full of hooves, hair, beaks, and feet“, it’s not true.
What is Meat Meal in Dog Food?
To better understand meat meals, it’s helpful to understand first how extruded kibble products work.
Fresh meat (which may be labeled as “fresh chicken, deboned lamb, grass-fed beef” or similar) is around 70% water content.
In other words, fresh meat is heavy, but mostly because it contains so much water. This is what allows the dog food company to place “fresh meat” as the first ingredient.
However, once the kibble is extruded (cooked) and the moisture content is significantly reduced, the actual amount of meat left in the finished kibble is much less than you think. Remember that a finished kibble is a dry product with very low moisture content.
Enter meat meal.
Meat meals are an ingredient that was developed to solve this problem. If you want your dog’s kibble to have a legitimate amount of animal-based nutrition in it, you want to see “meat meal” or “meat by-product meal” in the ingredients list!
To make a meat meal, the manufacturer ‘renders’ animal products (including muscle meat, tissue, cartilage, bones, and organs) to remove the fat and moisture.
The finished product is a nutrient-dense dry ingredient that is easy to store and incorporate as a primary ingredient in a dry, extruded kibble. It is incredibly high in protein and amino acids, especially when compared to fresh meat (by volume).
You can think of ‘meat meal’ (including ‘by-product meal’) as a protein powder of sorts. However, instead of mixing it up in a blender bottle after a workout (as you might do with your whey protein), the dog food manufacturer is turning it into a nutritious, chewable finished product.
What is in the By-Product Meal in Pet Food?
Now that we understand the difference between fresh meat and meat meal, and we understand what by-products are (“co-products”), we can dig a little deeper into what a by-product meal is.
Dog food companies are NOT required to state what is in their meat meals specifically, but there are important guidelines they must follow regarding what is and is not allowed in pet food.
No matter what nonsense you read on the internet, there should be no feet, beaks, hair, hooves, or euthanized pets scraped off of a slaughterhouse floor in your dog food.
Royal Canin, who is widely known for its use of chicken by-product meals, talks about this topic directly from HERE. Their by-product meal utilizes all acceptable and nutritious parts of the chicken; the same ingredients a dog would eat when offered a whole raw chicken.
Royal Canin employs a massive team of veterinary nutritionists and food scientists and has made massive contributions to veterinary science, medicine, health, and research.
They are known for turning away entire truckloads of ingredients that didn’t meet their strict standards. Not only that, Royal Canin has directly stated that they refuse to relabel their products to follow trends.
Honest trust time: the only people who continue to perpetuate this idea that by-products are bad, are people who are trying to sell you something.
Should Dog Food Companies List Ingredients Separately?
Some people believe that instead of saying “chicken by-product meal” manufacturers should be forced to list what is in the meal, specifically.
For example, they might say instead “bone meal, dehydrated liver, dehydrated spleen, dehydrated lung”.
We understand the point here, however, remember this: they cannot put slaughterhouse trash, hooves, beaks, and feet into their by-product meal. The things you are likely concerned about, don’t exist in a properly formulated and thoughtfully sourced food.
If you believe a company is trying to ‘hide something’ (such as feet or beaks or intestinal contents) by listing a “by-product meal” instead of the individual ingredients within that meal, consider this.
Ingredient splitting is the practice of splitting up whole ingredients into multiple parts on the ingredients list to deceive you.
Instead of saying “peas”, some brands will say “whole peas, pea protein, green peas, pea fiber, whole yellow peas”. Or instead of saying “lentils” they will say “whole lentils, green lentils, lentil fiber, red lentils, lentil flour”.
All on the same ingredients list. Because ingredients must be listed by weight before extrusion, this allows the company to artificially change your perception of how many peas or lentils are in the food. Splitting reduces their weight and moves them down the ingredients list.
Manufacturers use a lot of deceptive practices, and choosing to indicate that they use a “by-product meal” instead of splitting it up for you on the ingredients label is not one of them.
By-product meal is an ingredient, and as a regulated ingredient, it’s not full of trash and junk.
The companies who use a lot of intentionally deceptive ingredient splitting are often the same companies who tell you by-products are bad. The bigger question here is this: what are they trying to hide?
Pet Food Marketing – It’s Shady Business
There are thousands of dog food brands and formulas available to choose from. Many of them are made by marketing companies, who design a fancy eye-catching bag and website and then have their food concept manufactured by a co-packing plant.
The dog food industry is a huge one, with sales in the BILLIONS! For small companies to get a piece of that pie, they have to work pretty hard to be seen.
In other words, many dog food companies will say what they have to say to get your attention.
Walk into any pet store and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the volume of options. Everything is colorful and eye-catching, and sales reps lurk around every corner to get your attention on whatever brand they are trying to sell that week.
Here are some common marketing phrases and pet food trends you may have heard of:
Holistic
No By-Products
No Meat Meals
No Fillers
Grain-Free
Whole Food Ingredients
Fresh Meat as the 1st Ingredient
Gluten-Free
Keto / Low Carb
There is a lot of misinformation and general nonsense floating around the internet regarding pet food, and we’re here to help you sort through all of it. We cannot wait to cover each of these topics individually so that you can be an educated and savvy consumer when it comes to choosing foods for your pet!
Until then, don’t be afraid of meat meal or meat by-product meal in your pet’s food.
