Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food
Starch works out at 37.0% of this cup, close to the site average. Protein comes in at 27.0%.
- Protein
- 27.0%
- Starch, derived
- 37.0%
- Kcal / cup
- 410
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Chicken
The clean flesh of the chicken, with or without skin, used fresh....
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Peas
The seed of the pea plant, used whole, split or dried as...
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Chicken Meal
Chicken that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal,...
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Lentils
The dried edible seed of the lentil plant, used in grain-free recipes...
Salt is listed at #13. The 18 ingredients after it are present in trace amounts.
| Crude protein, minimum | 27.0% |
| Crude fat, minimum | 15.0% |
| Crude fiber, maximum | 5.0% |
| Moisture, maximum | 10.0% |
| Ash assumed, not published | 6.0% |
| Starch, derived by us | 37.0% |
| Calories | 410 kcal/cup |
The Open Score
Computed from this food's own figures, not from an opinion. Every line below shows what it awarded and why. Read the full method.
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Protein, dry matter 30% 20/30
Protein is 30% dry matter. As printed on the bag it reads 27%, but that figure includes the water. This food is between 26% and 32% dry matter, a typical mainstream level.
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Carbohydrate load 41.1% 9/25
Estimated carbohydrate is 41.1% dry matter, between 40% and 50% dry matter, high. No manufacturer publishes this figure. We derive it by subtracting protein, fat, fibre, moisture and an assumed 6% ash from the total.
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First five ingredients 2 named 10/25
The first five ingredients are Chicken, Peas, Chicken Meal and Lentils. 2 of them are a named animal protein.
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Flagged additives none found 10/10
None of the additives on our flagged list appear in the ingredients.
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Brand recall history none on record 10/10
We have no FDA recall on record matched to this brand. That is not a guarantee that none exists, only that none is in our data.
A score is a summary of measurable things. It cannot tell you whether your dog will do well on this food, and it does not account for price, availability or a condition your vet is managing.
Nutrition, dry matter
The guaranteed analysis on the bag is measured "as fed", which includes the water. Converting to dry matter removes the water so this food can be compared with any other, wet or dry. This food is 90% dry matter.
| Nutrient | As fed | Dry matter | Reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 27% | 30% | high |
| Fat | 15% | 16.7% | |
| Fibre | 5% | 5.6% | |
| Carbohydrate (estimated) | 37% | 41.1% | high |
Carbohydrate is not published by any manufacturer. We estimate it by subtracting protein, fat, fibre, moisture and an assumed 6% ash from the total. This food carries 3,590 kcal per kilogram, or 410 kcal per cup.
How much to feed
We calculate this from your dog's weight and this food's actual calorie density (3,590 kcal/kg), using the resting energy formula vets use. It is a starting point to adjust from, not a prescription. A pregnant dog, a dog recovering from illness, or one on a prescription diet needs a figure from your vet.
Recall history: Natural Balance
We have no FDA recall on record for Natural Balance. This covers recall notices published by the FDA that we have matched to this brand. It is not a guarantee that none exists.
Get told if this changes
Recalls are announced without warning. We will email you when one is published. No newsletter, no sharing your address, one click to stop.
Analyzing Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food
When it comes to choosing the right dog food for our furry companions, it’s important to consider the impact it can have on their overall health and longevity. Today, we’ll be taking a closer look at Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food. This dog food is formulated with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, peas, chicken meal, and lentils. Let’s explore how these ingredients contribute to various aspects of canine well-being, as indicated by the collective feedback from dog owners.
Digestive Health
One of the most common concerns among dog owners is their pet’s digestive health. Several reviews highlight the positive impact of Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food on dogs with sensitive stomachs. One owner mentioned that this food was a “life saver” for their dog with constant stomach problems, as it significantly reduced vomiting. This positive experience suggests that the ingredients in this dog food may be gentle on the digestive system, making it easier for dogs to digest and absorb the nutrients they need.
On the other hand, a different reviewer expressed disappointment with the quality of their recent order, mentioning a foul smell that indicated potential spoilage. While this could be an isolated incident, it’s essential for dog food manufacturers to ensure proper storage and temperature control to prevent such issues. It’s crucial to prioritize the quality and freshness of the ingredients to maintain the overall health of our beloved pets.
Energy Levels and Overall Well-Being
Maintaining high energy levels and overall well-being are vital for a dog’s longevity. According to a positive review, Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food seemed to be highly palatable for one dog, as it was the only food they would eat. The reviewer also mentioned that their dog, Bella, would be turning an impressive 16 years old soon. While genetics and individual circumstances play a significant role in a dog’s lifespan, a balanced and nutritious diet is undoubtedly a contributing factor.
Coat Condition
A shiny and healthy coat is not only aesthetically pleasing but can also indicate a dog’s overall health. Although no specific reviews mentioned coat condition directly, the inclusion of chicken and lentils in the ingredient list suggests potential benefits. Chicken is a rich source of protein, which is essential for healthy fur and skin. Lentils, on the other hand, contain vitamins and minerals that support coat health. Therefore, it’s reasonable to assume that Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food may positively contribute to a dog’s coat condition, keeping it lustrous and healthy.
Conclusion
In evaluating Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food, we have considered the collective feedback from dog owners regarding various aspects of canine health and longevity. The positive experiences, such as improved digestive health and long-term consumption without issues, indicate that this dog food may be beneficial for many dogs. However, the negative experience regarding product quality highlights the importance of ensuring proper manufacturing, storage, and temperature control.
Based on the ingredient list, Natural Balance Original Ultra Grain-Free Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food contains key components, such as chicken, peas, chicken meal, and lentils, which have the potential to positively impact a dog’s digestive health, energy levels, overall well-being, and coat condition. Remember, every dog is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your individual pet. By prioritizing their health and longevity, we can ensure our furry friends live their best lives by our sides.
