Why Gain Dog Food Is a Staple in Canine Health and Wellness

Wellness Complete Health Dog Food Review (Dry)

The Wellness Complete Health product line includes the 13 dry dog foods listed below.

Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.

Recipe and Label Analysis

Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.

Ingredients Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.

After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.

The second ingredient is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.

The third ingredient is oatmeal, a whole-grain product made from coarsely ground oats. Oatmeal is naturally rich in B-vitamins, dietary fiber and can be (depending upon its level of purity) gluten-free.

The next ingredient is barley. Barley is a starchy carbohydrate supplying fiber and other healthy nutrients. However, aside from its energy content, this cereal grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

The fifth ingredient includes peas. Peas are a quality source of carbohydrates. And like all legumes, theyre rich in natural fiber.

However, peas contain about 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.

The sixth ingredient is ground brown rice, another name for rice flour. Ground rice is made from either white or brown rice and is considered a gluten-free substitute for wheat flour.

The next ingredient is chicken fat. This item is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.

Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.

The eighth ingredient is tomato pomace. Tomato pomace is a controversial ingredient, a by-product remaining after processing tomatoes into juice, soup and ketchup.

Many praise tomato pomace for its high fiber and nutrient content, while others scorn it as an inexpensive pet food filler.

Just the same, theres probably not enough tomato pomace here to make much of a difference.

The ninth item is flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.

However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.

But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Wellness product.

With 5 notable exceptions

First, we find taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.

Next, chicory root is rich in inulin, a starch-like compound made up of repeating units of carbohydrates and found in certain roots and tubers.

Not only is inulin a natural source of soluble dietary fiber, its also a prebiotic used to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in a dogs digestive tract.

In addition, garlic can be a controversial item. Although many favor the ingredient for its claimed health benefits, garlic has been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs.¹

So, one must weigh the potential benefits of feeding garlic against its proven tendency to cause subclinical damage to the red blood cells of the animal.

We also find sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium in this recipe. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.

And lastly, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.

Nutrient Analysis

Based on its ingredients alone, Wellness Complete Health Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 27%, a fat level of 13% and estimated carbohydrates of about 52%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 29% and a mean fat level of 15%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 48% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.

Which means this Wellness product line contains

Above-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to other dry dog foods.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the peas and flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a significant amount of meat.

Our Rating of Wellness Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Wellness Complete Health is a grain-inclusive dry dog food using a significant amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of animal protein, thus receiving 5 stars.

12 Best Dog Vitamins And Supplements For Enhanced Health

If youre like four out of five adults in the U.S. who take vitamins or supplements, you may wonder if theyre a good idea for your furry family member as well. Do dogs actually need to supplement their diets with vitamins and other nutrients? Which vitamins do dogs need? Are you sure your dog is getting all of the necessary nutrients from his diet? Well help answer these questions and more to help you understand your dogs dietary needs beyond his regular dog food. Well also share our top picks for which products are best. Weve chosen Zesty Paws as the best vitamins for dogs but also recommend others for specific needs.

At A Glance: Best Vitamins For Dogs

Do Dogs Need Multivitamins?

In recent years, the concept of a dog multivitamin has become more popular, intending to improve your dogs health proactively before theres a problem rather than only giving supplements in response to a diagnosis, says Dr. Hannah Godfrey, BVetMed, MRCVS,a small animal veterinarian in Cardiff, Wales. While a dog multivitamin can improve digestive health, immunity, skin, coat, and mobility, its important to know what you are giving your dog.

Dr. Godfrey explains why its so important to use caution with multivitamins. Remember, nutritionally balanced dog food will contain the spectrum of nutrients that your dog requires to live, and while there may be scope to tailor their vitamin and mineral intake to their individual needs, overdoses of micronutrients can occur. Therefore, its important to do your research, check with your veterinarian, and use a dog-specific product.

In general, if your commercial dog food says its complete and balanced, meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines, and is appropriate for your dogs life stage (puppy, adult, senior), then your dog should be getting all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients he needs from his food. This means you do not need a dog multivitamin unless your vet has recommended one.

The big exception to this rule is that if your dog is eating mainly homemade dog foodor a vegan diet, he may not be getting everything he needs. You should consult with your veterinarian to develop a plan to supplement your dogs homemade food diet. Your vet may recommend adding certain foods to your recipes or using a dog multivitamin supplement.

Best Multivitamins For Dogs

Here are some top-rated multivitamins for puppies, adults, and senior dogs specially formulated for dogs. Be sure to read the label to determine the correct dosage amount for your pet (varies by size and weight).

For Any Age: Zesty Paws Multivitamin Bites Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

Zesty Paws Multivitamin Bites contain 20 vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that support the skin, coat, joints, heart, digestion, and immune response in dogs of all ages and sizes. Noteworthy ingredients include glucosamine, fish oil, a six-strain probiotic, digestive enzymes, fish oil, and CoQ-10, an antioxidant thats important for heart and neurological health.

Made in the USA, these bites are free of grains, corn, and soy and have no artificial flavoring or preservatives. Theyre also certified by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC)for safe manufacturing practices.The NASC is a non-profit trade organization thats committed to setting quality standards for pet supplements, which arent regulated by the FDA. These soft chews come in chicken and peanut butter flavors.

Recommended use:one chew daily per 25 pounds of weight (no more than 3 chews per day)

Price

Full Zesty Paws Review

For Any Age: PetHonesty 10-In-1 Multivitamin Review

View on Amazon | View on PetHonesty

PetHonestys multivitamin packs 10 benefits into one tasty chicken-flavored bite, including help with mobility, digestion, skin health, energy, and more. Like Zesty Paws vitamins, they are free from additives like wheat, corn, soy, dairy, harmful chemicals, preservatives, or artificial flavoring. These healthy soft chews, which come in chicken and peanut butter flavors, include 14 vitamins and minerals, omega fatty acids, a 7-strain probiotic, glucosamine, and chondroitin.

Made in the USA in a Good Manufacturing Practices-certified and FDA-approved facility with NASC certification, you can trust that youre giving your pup only the best with this daily supplement. They have a money-back guarantee and subscription option to save 20% on auto-shipping.

Recommended use:one chew daily per 25 pounds of weight (maximum of 3 chews/day)

Price

Full Review Of PetHonesty

For Any Age: Rockwell Pets Pro Natural Dog Vitamins Review

Visit Website

Rockwell Pets Pro Natural Dog Vitamins are unique from other vitamins. This liquid-form supplement makes it easy to top your dogs food with a boost of nutrients and flavor. The beef-flavored, all-natural product supports allergies, better digestion, physical and mental endurance, fights disease, boosts energy, and more. Made in a GMP-certified factory in the USA, they have a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a subscription to save 20% on recurring purchases.

Recommended use:Under 10lbs 1/4 oz, 10 -24 lbs 1/2 oz, 25 49 lbs 1 oz, 50 100 lbs 1/2 oz, over 100 lbs 2oz. Refrigerate after opening.

Price

Our Personal Experience With Rockwell Pets Natural Vitamins

We had the opportunity to try out Rockwell Pets Pro in exchange for an honest review. The vitamin is in a liquid format which is easier to give our dog than chews since we can mix it with his food. Our 11-month-old puppy is using this product along with their probiotics sprinkled on top. The product is an orange color and relatively odorless. Georgie gobbles it up and has shown growth in size and weight with use (he was relatively lean before). Due to his small size, he doesnt require a large dose. So, the bottle should last us a good 3-4 months, providing a great value.

Sadie Cornelius, parent of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

For Puppies: NaturVet VitaPet Puppy Daily Vitamins Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

These high-quality, all-natural VitaPet soft chews are vet-formulated specifically for the needs of growing and active puppies from the age of 12 weeks to one year old. They contain a full spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as amino acids and fatty acids. Theyre wheat-free and also include a bonus breath aid to help freshen your pups breath. All of NaturVets supplements have NASC certification, are made in the USA, and come with a 180-day satisfaction guarantee.

Recommended use: 1/2 chew daily for puppies under 10 lbs, 1-2 chews daily for puppies over 10 lbs

Price

For Senior Dogs: VetriScience Laboratories Canine Plus Senior Multivitamin Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

VetriSciences senior dog vitamins are vet-formulated for older dogs to support heart, liver, brain, eye, and immune system function and promote physical and mental well-being that can be challenging for dogs to maintain as they age. These duck-flavored chews contain A, D3, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, and C vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, and omega fish oil.This company is women-owned, and all its products are developed by vets, made in the USA, and NASC-certified.

Recommended use: 1/2 chew daily (under 25 lbs), 1 chew daily (25-75 lbs), 2 chews daily (over 75 lbs)

Price

Best Dog Vitamins & Supplements For Specific Conditions

Typically, multivitamins for dogs arent as important as supplements to target specific conditions (as long as your pup is getting all the daily nutrients he needs). If your pet has specific issues, some of the following supplements can help target that area or problem.

As a vet, the majority of vitamins and supplements that I recommend for dogs are in response to a specific problem, says Dr. Godfrey. For example, if I diagnose a dog with joint problems, like hip dysplasia, arthritis, or cruciate disease, I might suggest a joint supplement that contains glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, or boswellia. Whereas, if a dog had low vitamin B12 levels or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (where there is a deficiency of digestive enzymes), I would suggest supplementing whats missing.

Joint Health: Nutramax Dasuquin Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

If your dog suffers from joint or hip issues, these Dasuquin chews could help strengthen his joints and ease aches and pains. Atop vet-recommended product, Dasuquin is a proprietary blend of ingredients thathelps inhibit cartilage breakdown, improve cartilage production, and reduce inflammation and pain.

They contain glucosamine, chondroitin, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), and other key ingredients that help maintain hip and joint health. Many dog owners say they see a big difference when they give their pups these chews regularly. See our reviews of the best joint supplements for dogs.

Recommended Use

Dasuquin comes in two formulas for small/medium dogs and large dogs.

• 10-29 lbs: 1 chew daily for initial 4-6 weeks, then 1 chew every other day (S/M dog formula)
• 30-59 lbs: 2 chews daily for initial 4-6 weeks, then 1 chew daily (S/M dog formula)
• 60 lbs and over: 2 chews daily for initial 4-6 weeks, then 1 chew daily (L dog formula)

Price

Joint Health: Ollie Zoomies Review

Visit Website

Ollie, the popular all-natural dog food subscription service, now offers supplements as an optional add-on to give dogs further the nutrients they need. Their Zoomies are formulated with glucosamine HCl (from shellfish), methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), vitamin C, chondroitin sulfate (porcine), vitamin E, kelp powder, and organic turmeric. These all-natural ingredients help support the health of your dogs hips and joints. Theyre made in the U.S. in cGMP-certified facilities using a cold extrusion process to preserve the potency of every active ingredient.

Recommended use: The following guidelines are per day. Do not exceed the recommended daily amounts.

• 1 chew for dogs up to 30 lbs
• 2 chews for dogs 30-60 lbs
• 3 chews for dogs 61-90 lbs
• 4 chews for dogs over 90 lbs

Price

Full Review Of Ollie

Skin & Allergy Health: Zesty Paws Aller-Immune Bites Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

Does your dog suffer from skin, seasonal, or environmental allergies? These grain-free soft chews contain salmon oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin, and colostrum, which helps boost immune health and improve inflammation. They also include a five-strain probiotic for stronger gut health, which has been shown to promote a healthy immuneresponse to allergens. Theyre NASC-certified and made in the USA. See our reviews of the best allergy supplements for dogs.

Recommended use: one chew daily per 25 pounds of weight (no more than 3 chews per day)

Price

Dog Allergy Testing

Consider doing an at-home dog allergy test if you suspect your dog may have intolerances to food or environmental substances. By analyzing a simple saliva or hair sample, these kits can be an affordable start to identifying whats causing your pups skin or digestive problems. Then you can consult your vet for further diagnostics and a treatment plan.

Digestive Health: Vital Planet Flora Dog Probiotic Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

Giving your dog a daily probiotic can help regulate his digestive system, especially if he has problems with diarrhea, an upset stomach, or constipation. Vital Planet Flora Dog Probiotic contains a prebiotic and ten probiotic strains tohelp maintain normal digestive and immune function and improve intestinal tract health.

This powder formula contains a therapeutic dose of 20 billion live cultures per scoop. Manufactured in the USA and NASC-certified, it contains no GMOs, grain, gluten, soy, artificial ingredients, or artificial colors. See our reviews of the best probiotics for dogs to learn more about how probiotics can improve your pups overall health and well-being.

Recommended use: Mix one level scoop of the powder into food once daily.

Price

Urinary Health: Native Pet Bladder Chews Review

View on Amazon | View on Native Pet

Does your furry friend get recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs)? You may want to consider Native Pets Bladder soft chews to support your pups urinary tract, bladder, and kidney health. The active ingredients in this vet-formulated supplement include cranberry extract,B. Subtilis, a probiotic known to support UT health, andD. Mannose, a natural extract that binds to bad bacteria and carries it through the urinary tract.

Featuring only seven all-natural ingredients, these chews are made in the USA and are slow-cooked and air-dried to preserve nutrients and freshness. They also include real chicken and pork bone broth, so take note in case your pup has allergies to one or both of these animal proteins.

Recommended use: Give 1 chew daily for every 25 lbs. of your dogs weight.

Price

You can save 10% off the following price by signing up for auto-shipping.

Full Review Of Native Pet

Eye Health: Animal Necessity Ocu-GLO Vision Supplement Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Walmart

If your dog is suffering from age or illness-related vision problems, such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy, you may want to consider these Ocu-GLO liquid gelcaps. Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists formulated them with essential vitamins, minerals, grape seed extract, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein for optimal eye support.

This NASC-certified supplement is non-GMO, grain-free, and soy-free and made in the USA. Many customers say their veterinarians recommended this supplement for various eye problems. Ocu-GLO also comes in soft chews if your pup isnt a fan of pills.

Recommended use: Ocu-GLO comes in two formulas for small dogs and large/medium dogs.

• Under 11 lbs: 1 gelcap daily (S formula)
• 11-30 lbs: 1 gelcap daily (M/L formula)
• 31-60 lbs: 2 gelcaps daily (M/L formula)
• 61-100 lbs: 3 gelcaps daily (M/L formula)
• Over 100 lbs: 4 gelcaps daily (M/L formula)

Price

Prenatal Health: Revival Animal Health Oxy Mate Prenatal Vitamin Review

View on Amazon | View on Walmart

Revival Animal Health Breeders Edge Oxy Mate prenatal vitamins are fortified with vitamins, minerals, and elevated levels of iron, folic acid, and zinc to provide pregnant dogs and their developing embryos with the optimal nutrients for healthy growth. Made in the USA, these soft chews are suitable for both dogs and cats.

Once your pup has given birth, you may want to consider Breeders Edge Oxy Momma postnatal vitamins while your new furry mom is lactating. They contain important ingredients to stimulate and enhance milk production and help your pups body recover from birthing.

Recommended use: Oxy Mate and Oxy Momma come in two formulas for small dogs (and cats) and large/medium dogs.

• Under 20 lbs: 1 chew daily (S formula)
• 20-60 lbs: 1 chew daily (M/L formula)
• Over 60 lbs: 2 chews daily (M/L formula)

Price

6 Essential Vitamins Dogs Need

Heres a quick rundown of the essential vitamins all dogs need, as well as a refresher for you about which foods contain these vitamins. Keep in mind that this is not an all-inclusive list of all the nutrients dogs need; its just the basics.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin thats important for dogs for normal vision, the immune system, growth, fetal development, and proper organ function. Foods rich in vitamin A that are safe for dogs include carrots, eggs, fish oil, liver (in minimal amounts), pumpkin, spinach, sweet potatoes, and turnip greens.

Vitamin B

B vitamins are vital for maintaining good dog health and directly impact brain function, energy levels, and cell metabolism. Vitamin B complex helps prevent infections and helps support and promote cell health. Foods rich in vitamin B that are safe for dogs include whole grains, beans, some kinds of nuts,* leafy green vegetables, beef, pork, liver, and dairy products in tiny amounts.

Vitamin C

All parts of a dogs body tissue require vitamin C for growth and repair. Its also necessary for many body functions, including the immune system, wound healing, the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth, and iron absorption. Foods rich in vitamin C that are safe for dogs include certain fruits,* some vegetables,* and organ meats.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps your dogs body regulate minerals like calcium and phosphate. These nutrients are needed to keep bones, teeth, and muscles healthy. Foods rich in vitamin D that are safe for dogs include fatty fish, marine fish oil, egg yolks, beef, and liver and dairy products in very small amounts.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for cell function and fat metabolism. If your dog doesnt get enough vitamin E, he could develop muscle and eye degeneration and reproductive problems. Foods rich in vitamin E that are safe for dogs include leafy green vegetables, some seeds,* wheat germ, whole grains, salmon, and trout.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin thats vital for normal blood clotting. Foods rich in vitamin K that are safe for dogs include leafy green vegetables, green beans, beef liver, chicken, and pork.

*Some foods arent safe to feed your dog. See which foods are and arent safe for dogs.

Can I Give My Dog Human Vitamin Supplements?

Never give your dog human vitamin supplements. Dogs have very different nutritional needs than humans, and too much of certain vitamins can make dogs very ill. Suppose youre considering giving your dog species-specific vitamins. In that case, its essential to contact your veterinarian to ensure your dog gets everything he needs without overdoing certain vitamins that he may already be getting in his diet.

Why Does Homemade Dog Food Need Nutrient Supplements? (Video)

This brief video from a certified dog nutritionist does a fantastic job explaining why your dog very likely may need a dog multivitamin and nutrient supplements if hes on a homemade dog food diet.

Should I Consider A Premium Dog Food Delivery Service?

Are you concerned about the quality of your commercial kibble? Or are you worried that your homemade dog food is nutrient deficient? If so, a great option could be to introduce fresh dog food to your pups diet. These services not only deliver human-grade dog food right to your door, but many also tailor your dogs food for age, weight, health concerns, and other factors. See our reviews of the best dog food delivery services to find some excellent options.