Think Your Dog’s Food Is 100% China Free? Don’t Count On It

by Mike Sagman
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These days, I keep reading around the Internet about how this or that dog food is completely free of Chinese ingredients.

And frankly, I’m puzzled.

After all, there are so many basic pet food ingredients that today are no longer even made here in North America.

Take vitamin C, for example. In just a little over a decade, Chinese manufacturers have cornered over 90% of the U.S. market for this common vitamin.1

And it’s not just the vitamin C market that’s been affected. It’s the rest of the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, too.

According to a recent post in the Seattle Times, China now makes…

  • 70 percent of the world’s penicillin
  • 50 percent of the earth’s aspirin
  • 35 percent of its acetaminophen (generic Tylenol)
  • The bulk of the world’s vitamins A, B12, C and E

The Problem with Chinese Ingredients

Today, it’s nearly impossible to find a U.S. manufacturer for some essential vitamin and mineral supplements. So, even if a pet food company insists on using 100% domestic ingredients, that noble goal can be elusive.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying Chinese ingredients are automatically inferior to our own.

But let’s face it, in spite of continued promises for reform by the Chinese government, the country’s ongoing saga of food safety scandals persists unabated.

Yet consumers still believe there’s some kind of law protecting them from pet foods containing foreign-made components?

The Shocking Truth About
Country of Origin Labeling Laws

Here in the U.S., current country of origin labeling laws are either weak or non-existent. They offer little protection to consumers, especially when it comes to the source of a dog food’s ingredients.

For a product to be labeled “Made in the USA” (or for that matter, any other country), regulations require only that the product be “all or virtually all” made in that country.

Nowhere do labeling rules mandate the identification of sources of the individual components that were used to make a product.

So, even though a company reports they manufacture a dog food completely in a U.S. or Canadian facility, there’s no way to assure a consumer the ingredients weren’t sourced from a foreign producer.

Why China-Free Today Can’t Guarantee
It’ll Be China-Free Tomorrow

And there’s no requirement to inform consumers of a change of any ingredient’s country of origin either.

So, a recipe claim made today is never a guarantee the same will be true tomorrow.

Even though a manufacturer or a well-meaning third-party writer may report a dog food company’s products are “100% China Free” or “Made in the USA”, there’s nothing to legally guarantee the next batch of raw materials can’t come from a different source.

And that’s precisely the reason The Dog Food Advisor relies solely on government-regulated pet food labels and intentionally ignores virtually everything else.

It would be misleading to our readers for us to do otherwise.

Unverifiable Claims Are Useless

Isn’t it possible your dog’s food is different? That it’s 100% free of Chinese ingredients?

Of course. It’s likely some pet foods actually are.

But let’s be logical. Let’s talk about probability.

If human vitamins are mostly sourced from Chinese suppliers, what are the chances the profit-driven pet food industry will still be able to get their hands on the few American-made supplements still available?

And what’s the likelihood these same companies would be willing to pay the top prices required to get them?

Sure. Anything’s possible.

After all, even a broken clock is right twice a day.

  1. China Corners Vitamin Market, Seattle Times, 6/3/2007 ↩
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  • Oberei

    Most Asians do what? You are an idiot.

  • HannahB-nannah

    So true… My sweet girl has a liver disease from eating Dingo, Denta Treats

  • HannahB-nanna

    I don’t think you are being too careful at all.. Chicken Jerky Makes my dog sick… I avoid them all… For treats I try to give them organic carrots and bananas… They Love them, and recommended by a vet in California.. They have never made them sick…

  • http://www.facebook.com/dorothea.fortson Dorothea Fortson

    most Asians eat dogs and cats , don’t think anything of it, so why are we now shocked to learn how they prepare and manufacture dog food to be shipped and sold to us in America for our pets. I am buying my pet American made food now, or I will cook for him myself.

  • Kscott

    Can u ship that food to Texas ??? And how much ???

  • Seth

    I’m sick of this. China didn’t have to invade us in order to conquer; they simply BOUGHT US OUT.

  • John

    Pets’N'Nature treats are made exclusively from USA pasture raised liver, hearts, or kidneys. They contain only one ingredient, no additives of any kind, and my dogs love them!

  • Guest

    The most genetically modified foods are corn, soy sugar beets, papaya from Hawaii and some zucchini. And of course, cows, pigs and chickens are all fed corn now so it’s in the meat too.

  • Realtorddl

    Our KROGER has a refrigerator unit in the dog food isle with fresh made dog food. The treats are especially good and cost a little more but it is worth it. They also have regular dog food

  • disqus_OAFQuHh6sb

    I just heard on the news this morning, that a new law may go into effect that it would be against the law to take pictures, videos, at any meat packing facilities or slaughter houses of anythe animal abuse. And an undercover investigator would not be allowed to apply for employment at any of thewse places. My question to you is this; How can we expect these places to police themselves? The answer is, We can’t! So how will we know if our food is safe?

  • Pingback: 100% USA made dog food (No such thing!!) | For the love of dogs today

  • Pattyvaughn

    I think the post order is confusing you. Your replying to a post made a year ago, about something that was posted 6 months ago.

  • http://twitter.com/TheyCallMeDelly Delgada Jayne

    Did you not read what that post JUST said? Even if the label says “Made in the USA,” the INGREDIENTS themselves could be imported from China to save a few bucks. Its hard to tell unless you’re the head hancho running the joint.

  • http://twitter.com/TheyCallMeDelly Delgada Jayne

    Its all about the money…(money, money). Their government doesn’t regulate crap, because they don’t have any integrity for human beings and animals. They’d rather kill me with salmonella-contaminated fruit and my dog with by-products from dead animals than shut down and offend these grotesque operations. Forgo the money, where is it going to get you, China!?

  • Dr J

    I pretty sure Shanebek is totaly aware of the difference between an omnivore and a carnivore….

  • Charli

    Your first link does not work. I did find some links to how to make your own dog food by doing a search of her site:

    http://www.dogaware.com/diet/homemade.html

    http://www.dogaware.com/diet/homemaderesources.html

    http://www.dogaware.com/articles/index.html

    Thanks for the resources

  • Charli

    But you may not be meeting all his nutritional needs. Make sure to check this. Humans and dogs have different needs.

  • Vietnam Vet

    And I wonder how many lie?

  • Charli

    I make dried foods for my dog and cats and vacuum seal them. There are no chemicals in them The same for my canned foods. NO CHEMICALS. Both dried and canned foods can be made safely. I pressure can all my canned (jarred) foods.

  • Vietnam Vet

    You can buy foods made in the USA yet they’re made with products from China and the labels don’t reflect this. Contact your legislators and hold them accountable for the horrible labeling laws we have in this country. They are lining their pockets with campaign contributions because they refuse to make good labeling laws. Well, campaign contributions aren’t going to help them since WE have the majority of vote and if more then 30% of us voted we could scare the crap out them.

  • Charli

    Even when you look for labeling it’s often not there. Or if it is it’s about the packaging. I want to know where everything is Grown/raised, slaughtered/picked,processed, and packed. I want to know what is in it. Did you know the list of GMO contaminated foods is growing? Corn, Soy, Sugar, Aspartame, Papayas, Canola, Cotton, Dairy, Zucchini and Yellow Squash are all contaminated. To read more go to:

    http://naturalsociety,com/top-10-worst-gmo-foods-list/#sthash,E4VhSmIR,dpuf and now the dairy industry wants to put aspartame in your milk. To read more: http://www.care2.com/causes/dairy-industry-wants-to-spike-milk-with-aspartame-and-not-tell-you.html#ixzz2MDxaEsqP

  • Vietnam Vet

    We as American need to demand products made in this country. I’m sick of our legislators lining their pockets at our expense. It’s time they were held accountable as should the manufactures and businesses in this country. We NEED good labeling laws NOW>

  • Pingback: Your products may be labelled organic, but are they 100% China free? | Raw Food Health Watch

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi sistaelle –

    For an unhealthy dog – yes, switching foods without a gradual transition can result in loose stools. However, for a healthy dog this shouldn’t happen. Dogs can have unhealthy digestive systems and not be able to switch foods for numerous reasons – IBD, colitis, etc. or the owner can create an unhealthy digestive system by feeding the same food continuously. My dogs eat a homemade raw diet and get something completely different at every meal with no issues. When I fed kibble I switched brands cold turkey at the end of every bag and switched canned toppers daily with no issues. I know many people who switch their dogs food regularly without transitioning – they are able to do this because they have healthy dogs with strong digestive systems. People don’t have to do a gradual transition from having eggs for breakfast and a sandwich for lunch and healthy dogs don’t need to transition when switching foods.

  • sistaelle

    Changing a dogs food brand or giving new treats will often result in loose stool. Food changes need to be made gradually. Signs of bad food ingredients are vomiting, lethargy, hair loss etc.

    The point of the story was that most pet foods have vitamins from China in them because that’s the only place they can get them. One pet food comany told me that if a pet food claims to get their vitamins from somewhere other than China it means the vitamins are shipped From China to a different country that then sells them to the pet food company. At this point the best you can do is either make your own food or use a pet food that has the highest content sourced in the USA. Vitamins so far have not seemed to have had problems. The previous problems stemmed from melamine being added to wheat gluten, rice
    protein concentrate and, in South Africa, corn gluten, all imported from
    China, and all meant for use in pet food, They were thought to have been added to fake higher protein levels. If you find a pet food who’s sources of everything (aside from the vitamins) is the USA you should be reasonably saffe. There are such foods.

  • truth seeker

    i agree .. look up GMO almost all our food supply is genetically modified from fish, meat and veggies plus lets just add pesticides and even ammonia and thats public info i wonder what we dont know about

  • truth seeker

    I AGREE i bought chicken jerkey for my dog from costco and after a 10 days he was throwing up i turned the bag over and wallah made in china .. they don’t care about dogs in there country why would they care about quality control vs profit? maybe im wrong but in china dont they eat dogs ?

  • http://www.facebook.com/judite.lamb Judite Lamb

    I Love your posting! I would prefer fresh treats than chemical infused! My Vet in Johannesburg has also come up with dog food that can be frozen, but it is fresh and not dry!

  • http://www.facebook.com/judite.lamb Judite Lamb

    Really worried! I live in South Africa and we import our major dog food for USA. How can we be sure that it is not coming from China and just as contaminated! The Chinese are not really known as loving dogs etc. This could be their revenge of the Western world!

  • leasejr

    Bob you are so right, I could say a lot more, I have been a whistle-blower for an unsafe medical device at a major corporation, have been harassed beyond you wildest imagination for well over 5 years.  The country has no idea what is in their own health products, much less their pet food. Sad part is, they (US companies do not value human or pet safety) the GOD is the almighty dollar for the stockholders.  

  • Bob K

     leasejr  – There is nothing sacred or safe about the US food supply for humans either, last year 3000 people died in the US due to food borne illness.  Imagine how many were hospitalized and never died and how many more sought treatment from their Dr.  or thought they had a case of stomach flu. Just use Google and look for food recalls and other searches.

  • leasejr

    CONTRACT MANUFACTURER IN IOWA CITY PACKAGES SO MUCH CAN FOOD FOR SO MANY COMPANIES.  THAT IS WHY WHEN ONE GOES INTO RECALL, ALOT DO

  • leasejr

    UNITED PET GROUP IS IMPORTING THIS FROM CHINA, AND DISTRIBUTING.  THAT MEANS NOT MADE IN USA, MAKE IN CHINA

  • leasejr

    I guess I just want to help people realize the situation were are in here.  Corporations making cat and dog food will buy their raw materials from the cheapest source they can.  That is GOING TO BE CHINA. Even the BIG ONES,  They use CHINA for the raw materials going into our toothpaste and other OTC health products.  I HAVE WORKED THERE, AND THEY DON’T GIVE THE COMPANY FOOD TO THEIR OWN PETS

    DO YOU REALLY THINK THEY ARE GOING TO MAKE EXCEPTION FOR OUR CATS AND DOGS…  I HAD BLUE BUFFALO ADMIT THAT A MINIMUM THEIR NUTRACEUTICALS COULD COME FROM CHINA.  BY THE WAY, I HAVE NEVER WORKED THERE.

    WAKE UP, WE ARE NOT GOING TO CHANGE THEM.

    OH BY THE WAY, IF IT SAYS DISTRIBUTED BY….THAT ONLY MEANS THEY IMPORT IT AND DISTRIBUTE.  BELOW THAT LINE IT WILL SAY THE COUNTRY OF ORGIN……USUALLY CHINA. 

  • Tinbit

    you can go to accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/newpetfoodrecalls/
    or just type in tainted dog food in your search,
    but if people don’t report it to the fda then it’s not on the list ..alot of american dog food made here still have ingredients form china in it ,sad but true ,the only way to get this to stop is people need to wright to there senators ,and start a petition laws can be changed but we the people need to do so,

  • Jens

    Rice if brown or white contains arsenic because the rice plant is excellent in taking it out of the ground….

  • http://profile.yahoo.com/B4QVS2XOIDOAIFB4XIK4UZ2YHM K

    I’m a veterinary technician. You need to know that feeding grapes or raisins to your dog can, kill your dog. Please do not advise people what to feed their pets, when you do not have all necessary information!

  • Marya

    WOW – my dog developed severe ongoing diarrhea after I gave her a few of Dingo treats.  My vet bill was double yours after several visits, and the problem still persists slightly. My dog seemed healthy, but the diarrhea was awful. Vet said she probably had some parasite… We never had problems with the small Dingo bones, but the flat chew treats seem problematic. 

  • InkedMarie

    If it’s made in China, don’t feed it!

  • Pam

    I have been giving my dogs Dingo’s Jerky Chews, chicken chips. Does anyone know if these are on the list of bad treats? One of my dogs was sick and I took him to the vet spent $280 and they could not find anything wrong with him.
    The bag says Distributed by United Pet Group in Cincinnati, Ohio but several lines under that is say Made in China!

  • Jsherman

     My dog is allergic to chicken and rice.  So it’s salmon and oatmeal and veggies… disgusting to humans, but she just LOVES it :)   I don’t feed it daily, tho, she can eat the Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Fish kibble and has done well on that for quite some time…

  • Jsherman

    Many dogs are also allergic to rice, including mine.  Chicken, too, so the chicken and rice recommendaton is poison to my dog.  Don’t know that potatoes are better than rice, but at least my grrl can eat them without consequence, so I’d have to say, potatoes are “better for my dog.”  That’s the best any of us can say…

  • patcon

    Remember that TAIWAN is CHINESE and have similar standards.  A statement was made that brown rice has no nutrition. Most orientals thrive on it.

  • Pattyvaughn

    Good for you!!  Unfortunately Americans are a complacent lot.  We all believe it will never happen to us so we keep on buying what we’ve always bought until it does.  Once it all of a sudden affects us, then we act like they are the worst company ever, when they are only doing what we’ve been paying them to do all along.

  • Louise

    Aren’t we in charge of keeping these companies profitable? As consumers we can demand that these companies stop using these inferior ingredients by writing them and vowing not to purchase their products any longer and asking everyone on our friendship lists via Facebook and/or any other social media to do the same. We watch their commercials of how healthy their products are but we are the guilty ones to let it continue and let them profit. I wrote my letter yesterday and I hope others will follow suit. I also still had my sales receipt for other dog treats manufactured by Purina that were not recalled that I returned to the store telling them unless they change their manufacturing I don’t trust ANY of their products.

  • Melaniemckeehan

    Check it http://www.seebeyondthebag.com from natura

  • grammie8

    My vet sent me an email warning me that Milo’s Kitchen. Waggin’ Train, and Canyon Creek chicken jerky are contaminated.  I appreciate my vet keeping me informed. Thanks Totalbond.

  • Brendajuneking

    soups,all my leftovers go into slow cooker whether eating out or at home,just add water.last night she had soup from steak,baked potato and rolls.just leave out brocolli and calliflower and onions,everything else goes.(dont worry about ketchup and dressings)throw it all in.

  • Melissaandcrew

     Depends on the dog. If you feed boiled rice to my doberman gal, you will get it back exactly as you put it in : )

  • greyhounds4me

    Potatos hold a nutritional value and yes are high in carbs but they are healthier than rice. Brown rice if you are feeding any rice at all. The white rice is bleached and has been found to have traces of arsenic in it. Always use brown rice, organic if you are using it. Rice hold no nutritional value but it is a good filler and easy on the stomach!

  • greyhounds4me

    Back in the day, farmers used to feed Lamb to the dogs when they had upset tummies. Lamb is very god for dogs.  Might want to try Grain Free Lamb and Sweet Potatos mix!

  • greyhounds4me

    Those are ok but remember, the gas producing veggies for humans, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, broccoli are all gas producers in dogs too!

  • Pattyvaughn

    Grapes should not be given to dogs.  They are toxic.

  • Brofmlytree

    fresh vegetables are great and make your own dog treats and buy dog food made in USA….dogs love carrots and several other things. Even a few grapes , sliced apples is great. use common sense.

  • Pia R Florenzano

     I stooped feeding Rice all to getter,because  watching the news, it supposed to have arsenic in it,don’t know how high in level.

  • Pia R Florenzano

     All green vegetables a real good for dogs ,also parsnip is excellent.

  • Nikismom

    Not to mention, another issue is many dog food/treat companies use the same manufacturer causing cross contamination because they are not required to clean in between runs.  The laws around pet food are far less than human food.  In the melamine scare a few years back, many dog food companies had to recall, not because they had the ingredient the malamine was found in but because their food was run at the same manufacture.  If you want to stay completely safe, do not buy any commercial dog food or treats.  Stick with the small in house companies or make it yourself.  

    BTW – on the comment about she would rather give her does whole grain rice over potatoes, whole grain rice has almost ZERO nutritional value, potatoes have a lot of nutritional value and sweet potatoes are even better.  A choice between potatoes and rice is a no brainer, potatoes!  

  • Mimi2kyle

    I feed my dogs all these foods Sherri – green beans and bananas and apples too

  • Gloria

    Tho i don’t use the raw recipe the show dog people and good breeders highly recommend the raw diet , (barf) I thought about it but I put my dogs on a holistic American made diet , my dogs are rescues not show dogs and when this whole China problem started with the gluten I started researching I try to keep corn and what gluten out of mine and my dogs diet ,they seem to hide the fact this stuff from China is in our food makes you wonder I myself have totally gone off meat and grow  a lot of my own veggies and yet I know that somewhere in mine and my dogs diet there is China in it …Sigh

  • Sherri

    On the frozen mixed vegetables, are there any vegetables we should stay away from that are not good for dogs?  Peas, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots — all good?

  • Sherri

    I never thought of lamb Linda. Thanks for the suggestion.  Good question about if the allergy is to chicken or the products IN the chicken!  I will feed her some plain chicken this weekend and see if she has the same reaction as to pet food products made with chicken. Thank you for your suggestions.

  • Lwdreamchaser

    But they have had recall issues as well.

  • Fifi

    My comment relates to the ad at the end of the article for a pet food reseller

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Linda-Nicola/1002206962 Linda Nicola

     Substitute lamb.  Make a chicken soup recipe with lamb.  Are you sure the allergy is to chicken and not the products in the chicken?

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Linda-Nicola/1002206962 Linda Nicola

     I disagree with the potatoes.  Many dogs are actually allergic to potatoes, despite the duck/potato food diet.  I agree with the rest.  I prefer whole grain rice instead of the potatoes.  A basic chicken soup recipe is great for dogs.

  • Wcrichers

    I was listening on Martha Stuart radio the other day, on of her vets was on, he said the food should be 1/3 potatoes, 1/3 meat, or fish, he said cod or haddock are cheaper, and 1/3 frozen mixed vegetables, everything cooked.  The woman he was talking to had a 25 lb. dog, that it should get about 4 oz., twice a day. Also a supplement.  He also said any dogs with allergies should be getting fish oil supplement, that helped my dog, he was 120 lbs. he got 2 of the large fish oils a day, one at each meal and 500 Ester C that I smashed with a mortar and pestle.  My neighbors dog had allergies and has done very well on a duck/ potato dog food.

  • Dave’s Hounds

     MadeinUSA I agree with you. Once I started investigating dog food – I realized that the problems are not limited to pet foods but there are major problems with the human food chain.

  • MadeinUSA

    While I am all for taking care of my pet and want the best, People do you know this same information applies to the food we purchase and eat! Until everyone starts to carefully inspect
    the food we purchase and start purchasing only foods that are produced by safe countries, manufacturers will continue to feed us inferior and possibly unsafe indredients that are cheaper!
    Look at all canned fruit from all the majors CHINA. Let’s wake up everyone..

  • PauperPrincess

    I was told by our local pet chain (NOT one of the big chains) location that Eagle Pack (Wellness) and Fromm’s sourced their ingredients locally.  EaglePack is made in IN and Fromm’s in WI.

  • Moony0323

    My dog really liked Halo’s Spot Stew canned. I think sometimes (like with Whole Dog Journal) there is not more info or rating because Halo will not reveal its copacker or manufacturing facility.

  • Anniearies

    enforce them publish the manufacturer’s ingredient source for everyone to see. pets are like family, we want to know what they have. price is not problem, life safety is!

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Check out dogaware.com.

  • Sherri

    Pia, I’d love to see some easy recipes for homemade dog food!  My dog is allergic to chicken so I am very limited as to what is available in the stores.  Would you mind emailing any tried and true dogfood recipes to me at dumarc_sherri@sbcglobal.net.  I can substitute any chicken in your recipes for another meat.  Thank you so much.

  • Shawna

    LOL ;)   I research things too.  Sometimes to death :)

    You can start, if you want, by adding commercial premade raw foods (Darwin’s is my favorite complete and balanced raw premade) til you get more comfortable with raw.  Also look at the different complete and balanced raw premades to see what they have added to ensure balance. 

    I would NOT recommend Dr. Pitcairns book if you are wanting recipes only.  He is a fantastic vet but his recipes are not what others would consider species appropriate (lots of grains). 

    Good luck and glad my post was helpful :)

  • DogLover21

    Oh, I’m all about research.  I think is what was kind of scaring me away at times, because I didn’t want to leave anything necessary out of their diet.  There are just so many resources out there that it can get overwhelming.  Thank you for all of the info!  I really, really appreciate it!

  • DogLover21

    Thank you!!!

  • Eve’sHumanMom

    Lbare7,  Here’s a link to the Halo canned food:  http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-reviews/halo-dog-food-canned/  The dry is also reviewed:  if you type in “Halo” and do a search, it should come up.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=540646752 Joyce Chartier

    Bought 4Health chicken and ride from Tractor Supply on 8/21/12 during their sale, and my one dog that would eat it had liquid stool and actually started to get neurologic symptoms in his back end.  24 hours after we stopped feeding it he recovered but that was very scary!

  • Kodiakcats

    The only way we know what’s in our pets’ food is if we make it ourselves! I  make my own !

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1794616489 Sally A Fontaine

     I dont believe them even if they tell you that they get all their ingredients from a distributer in the US as who knows where that distributer gets theirs from. As Brenda stated they can say they get their vitamins from only US companies but in reality that company maybe get them from somewhere in China. Its so sad how you can’t trust any of them anymore.

  • Lbare7

    I have 3 dogs and have been trying and testing different types of food in order to find a good combination that’s healthy for all of them. So now I cook for them 2 days a week(ground lean turkey, broccoli, sliced carrots, broth, noodles), 2 days a week using “Fresh Pet” refrigerated roll food(resembles a long big bologna roll) which  I was told was made by Wellness, and 2 days a week chicken breast, rice and broth. last day is kind of a “toss up”- may be 98% fat free Oscar Mayer hotdogs and cheese sticks. In addition, they have “free feeding”(food in bowl all day long so they may eat as they want) with dry food. I use Wellness CORE and Halo Spot’s Stew. I don’t ever see the Halo mentioned when foods are being analyzed. Would be interested if anyone else has had experience with the food.

  • http://twitter.com/brennie03 Brenda

    Thankyou for posting this,I did e-mail my dogs rabbit one and yes they do come from china, thankyou so much for this info or i would have never known,I do not like china and I will not buy anything for my dogs from china,I like my dog alive.Thankyou again,if it wasn’t for you I would have never known.Brenda

  • Spwinwmsbg

    I call the company and ask them where there ingredients come from

  • Shawna

    Hound Dog Mom has posted the raw food recipe she uses to feed her dogs so can’t see why you could not post your recipe too :) . 

  • Shawna

    DogLover21 ~~ Either follow several different recipes (for variety) or do lots and lots of research.  It is easy to do but it is also easy to cause nutrient dificiencies if you don’t know what you are doing. 

    Addie posted some good places to start.  You can also read books by vet Dr. Tom Lonsdale or Dr. Ian Billinghurst.  Dr. Karen Becker has a recipe book using variety and if followed ensures the diet will be nutrient balanced (Dr. Becker’s Real Food for Healthy Dogs and Cats).

    You can also get premixes like The Honest Kitchen Preference and add them to your own meats.

  • Pia R Florenzano

     Pam,this is why i said, we all should get together and cook for our dogs,and boy cut them nasty kibble companies.I cook for my dogs, its easy,you can freeze it,take out what you need.i would like to post some res epees,don’t know if im allowed to do that?

  • Addie

    Some good places to start: http://www.dogaware.com/articles/wdjhomemade3.htmlhttps://secure.balanceit.com/ 
    http://homemadedogfood.com/ 

  • Pia R Florenzano

     Maxmabi 777 i do the same, i cook for my 2 Australian Shepherds,i get their supplement with auto shipment from a holistic vet,plus i have dog cook books.I know what we should do,boy cut them,we all should get together,and stop buying Kibbles,and what ever else.

  • DogLover21

    So, I’ve been wanting to get into cooking my own dog food.  Where did you find your information on getting started.  I know it’s random, but I’m not sure where to start with two dogs, 80 lbs. (Siberian Husky, Akita, Boxer mix) and 60 lbs. (Siberian Husky, Chow Chow, GSD mix). 

  • Doggyagogo

    I only shop at local dog food shops, not the mega-stores, and I ask a lot of questions.  Then I do my online research.  My basenji isn’t going to eat anything that isn’t homegrown (Made in the USA!).

  • Ajsprop1

    Whole foods!  I buy them bones from there as well.

  • paula

    When I see “made in the USA” I write the company and ask where their ingredients are sourced from. I also specifically tell them I will not feed products made with ingredients from China. 

  • Bfoerst

    I feed Annamaet kibble. Nothing in thier food is from China. Thats why i love them. I went to a seminar at my pet food store.

  • Ruth

    Royal Canin is what I have used for years and now they have gone from a 4 star to a 3 star. I am now using Natures Variety Instinct.

  • Vruwink

    Well how can you find out for sure? I use Taste of the Wild and I do make they’re treats myself

  • Maxmabi777

    THANK YOU for posting this! ONE more reason that I am ONLY feeding food that I cook myself! Including treats! I actually think that the treats have been our culprit for the past 8 months, even though they said Made in USA!!Disgusting!! and Sad!! WHAT can we do to change this?

  • Pam

    Nature Select assures me that nothing in their food comes from China.  Can I believe them? I worry about my dogs getting Mass Cell Tumors driven by bad dog food.  What’s wrong with us to allow this???
    Pam

  • Clond1234

    Grandma lucys

  • Clond1234@gmail.com

    I feed grandma Lucy’s rabbit and it’s awesome!

  • Barbarasmith7165

    The reason they will not give a definitive answer is that the Rabbit IS sourced in China, otherwise they would tell you it was not!

  • Barbarasmith7165

    Yep and that is the case with Natural Balance dog food.  No way will they tell you they don’t source from China.  So guess what, they probably do!  I am changing to Addiction or Wellness because they do not use ingredients from CHina.  

  • cc3dognight

    Thanks for the info.  I will check out Grandma Lucy’s.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    cc3dognight: If the company wouldn’t straight up tell you it’s not from China…odds are it’s from China. Also, regardless of where the ingredients come from I would never purchase a product from a company that wouldn’t readily disclose requested information to me. Grandma Lucy’s has a grain-free rabbit-based food with all ingredients originating from the US (clearly stated on their website), maybe you should check that food out, it’s probably higher quality than Royal Canin.

  • cc3dognight

    I’m trying to get info about Royal Canin Rabbit and Potato Dog Food.  The vets seem to be suggesting it to just about everyone I know.  But I can’t find out if the Rabbit is sourced in China or not.  Phoning the Co. didn’t help.  They won’t give a definitive answer.

  • Scrabo274

    Cook your pets dinner like I do.  Meat, veggies and starch.  have a 15 year old Chow/Lab cross and he couldn’t be healthier.

  • Shanebek

    I love my dog and I believe my Doberman should be recieving the same quality of foods that I am. Only organic and 100% natural. There is no doubt whatsoever that almost every common pet food roots back to Chinese manufacturers. My way of giving my dog good food is by giving him scraps and leftovers from my meals.

  • Happy98329

    well I am trying my best to find healthy treats for my dog.  I was giving him Wagon Train until FDA started in on them…and Dogswell Happy Hips…my dog just loved them ….I want something totally made in usa and good for my dog…this is ridiculous that we are feeding our dogs …what DOGS….

  • Shawna

    COMPLETELY agree with everything you say in your post HealthyDogs!!!

  • Shawna

    No, hydrolyzed is not the same as dehydrated when you are discussing whole meats..  Dehydrated is simply water removed.  I imagine they can technically get away with saying the ingredient is dehydrated (as well) as the water has been removed. 

    Hydrolyzing is not the only way of freeing amino acids..  Autolyzing and fermentation are additional ways.  Dehydration of whole proteins is not a way though.

  • HealthyDogs

    Technically, dehydration is the opposite of Hydrolysis.  Hydrolysis when talking proteins is to break apart whole proteins into separate amino acids, generally using an acid and water (H2O), though there are many methods.  I would say that dehydrated is not at all like hydrolyzed.  The process of adding water in hydrolysis is to add Hydrogen to bond to other molecules…….though there are lots of processes to achieve it depending on what you are hydrolizing.  Is there a biochemist on the list?  I remember this from Chem and Organic Chem/BioChem…..but been a long time.

    That aside, I used SeaCure eons ago (1999) for a dog with severe allergies and had good luck with it, but due to expense, went to Raw Feeding which was the ticket for that girl.  IMHO, things that are processed that extensively should be used in very specific incidences.  I don’t consider dehydration, removal of water, to be over processed, but I would, anything that is hydrolyzed.

  • i8ok

    Thank you Shawna,
    Is dehydration a source of freed glutamic and aspartic acid?
     CEO of Wholistic Pet Organics wrote this to me: “The third ingredient is White Fish Protein.  Some of our labels termed it as Hydrolyzed (dehydrated/no water).”I’m still not understanding if hydrolyzed protein is the same as dehydrated protein.

  • Shawna

    Anything that is “hydrolyzed” is a source of freed glutamic and aspartic acid..  What I am not sure of is how much glutamic and aspartic acid is in white fish..  I know soy has a huge amount of both as an example..

    Generally if you see the word “protein” used it is also a source of freed glutamic and aspartic acid (soy “protein” concentrate, soy “protein” isolate, vegetable ”protein”, textured “protein” etc).

  • i8ok

    Hound Dog Mom, 
    It does seem that most of the combo supplements are missing something or have something undesirable. 
    I looked at http://www.seacure-protein.com/ and found this:   SEACURE® is the ONLY protein supplement that is produced using a ”fermentation” process instead of using heat and chemicals to break protein down into smaller fragments.  

    Wholistic Pet Organics, John J. Phillips, Jr. JD, President & CEO wrote to me that their human grade white fish protein is Hydrolyzed (dehydrated/no water).  

    If the fish is simply dehydrated, I would think they would call it dehydrated fish protein and not hydrolyzed fish protein. 

  • i8ok

    Got another reply from Wholistic Pet Organics. This reply is from John J. Phillips, Jr. JD, President & CEO:
    “Sorry for the confusion.  The third ingredient is White Fish Protein.  Some of our labels termed it as Hydrolyzed (dehydrated/no water). The White fished we use is Human Grade White Fish Protein.”

    So, is hydrolyzed protein simply dehydrated protein?

    Wikipedia describes it differently than dehydrated:
    Hydrolyzed protein is protein that has been hydrolyzed or broken down into its component amino acids. While there are many means of achieving this, two of the most common are prolonged boiling in a strong acid (acid-HVP) orstrong base or using an enzyme such as the pancreatic protease enzyme to stimulate the naturally occurring hydrolytic process. 

  • Hound Dog Mom

     i8ok,

    I’m thinking that all the whitefish protein is hydrolyzed – they aren’t the same ingredient regular protein is just regular protein that your dog would get from consuming fish and hydrolyzed means it’s broken down. Shawna pointed out that hydrolyzed protein can be a good supplement, but only under certain circumstances so I don’t think a normal healthy dog would need it. If you want to read more about hydrolyzed protein go here http://www.seacure-protein.com/ – this is a website for Seacure which is a hydrolyzed whitefish protein supplement.

    Personally I think a better option than their canine complete would be just to rotate between their single ingredient supplements. That’s what I plan on doing for my dogs’ raw diet. What I’ve come to discover is that any “complete” or multi-ingredient supplement is either going to contain some undesirable ingredients or lack some ingredients I really wish it had. I have yet to find a “complete” supplement that suits all my needs. The single ingredient supplements Wholistic Pet offers that I like (and plan on using) are: Wholistic Sea Blend with garlic, Wholistic Bee Power, Wholistic Spirulina, and Wholistic Organic Alfalfa Powder. I have also used their salmon oil before, it would be a better option than the flax for omega 3′s, it’s very high quality and has vitamin e already added so it doesn’t need to supplemented separately. They also sell their digestive enzymes and probiotics separately.

  • i8ok

    Confusing, yes! I am also wondering if the explanation they sent me is accurate. Is Hydrolyzed whitefish and whitefish protein the same ingredient?

    You described Hydrolyzed as a fermentation process to break fish protein down,  and Dog Food Ninja said that hydrolyzed proteins are full of excitotoxins. 

    Excitotoxins sounds like a not good thing. Seems that maybe they are required to put the word HYDROLYZED (bad word?) on their product label, but that they are avoiding that word on their website ingredient list. The customer doesn’t know the fish is hydrolyzed until they receive the product and read the product label.  

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hmm…maybe they just chose not to be specific in their label? Not sure why they wouldn’t just say the same thing to prevent confusion though..

  • i8ok

    I contacted Wholistic Pet Organics and this is the reply I just received:
    Hydrolyzed whitefish and whitefish protein are the same ingredient. 

  • Shawna

    Under the right circumstances, I think SeaCure is a very very valuable source of nutrients (failure to thrive, colitis etc).  However I would only suggest use for a limited amount of time due to the freed amino acids.

    I would also note that a different process is used (per the website) for SeaCure which doesn’t completely free individucal amino acids but leaves them in clumps of two and three.. 

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi i8ok,

    Sorry about that, must not have read closely enough. :)

    When I ordered from them I ordered the Wholistic Canine Complete Plus Joint Support (this was probably last summer) and the ingredients on the package stated stabilized flax seed and hydrolyzed whitefish, which is the same as what’s on the website. I also frequently order diatamaceous earth and salmon oil from them. I’ve never ordered the the original canine complete (minus the joint support) and am not sure why they would have a discrepancy between the product label and the website. I would contact their customer service. It’s possible you could have gotten a misprinted label or older label I suppose. But the difference would be that non-hydrolyzed protein wouldn’t be broken down and non-stabilized flax would lose potency quickly.

  • i8ok

    Hound Dog Mom, I don’t know what you were reading, but this is what I wrote:

    Website - Ingredients: Organic Ascophylum nodosum (kelp), Organic, stabilized flaxseed, whitefish protein, …. 

    Product label - Ingredients: Organic kelp, Organic flax seed, Hydrolyzed white fish, … 

    I’m putting extra spaces between WEBSITE and PRODUCT LABEL. I put spaces in my original post, but it got all strung together somehow. 

    Anyway, you ask the differences. 

    Website shows STABILIZED flaxseed. 
    Product label shows flaxseed (no use of the word STABILIZED).

    Product label shows HYDROLYZED white fish. 
    Website shows whitefish protein (no use of the word HYDROLYZED).

    I don’t have much computer time right now, so wanted to clear this up. I will then review the remainder of your answer.

    Thank you. 

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hey Johnandchristo,

    I agree. Any thing plant based is insuperior to animal-based when concerning dogs, in my opinion. The flax in this supplement however is powdered so I think it would be okay.

  • Johnandchristo

    Hey Hounddogmom…..

    My two cents on flax seeds, unless they are sprouted,
    or ground up they just pass right though the dog. since they are seeds they are coated with phytic acid, and non ruminant animals (carnivores) lack the digestve enzyme phytase,with breaks down phytic acid . Large herbivorous animals have a rumin.(they are the favorite prey of the wolf)the rumin is the first large chamber of the stomach. Humans cant digest them much better, but with flat molars we have a better shot at grinding them up.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Good to know. I don’t feed my dogs hydrolyzed protein (other than the one time I tried Wholistic Canine Complete) but have always heard good things about Seacure (a hydrolyzed whitefish supplement). I’ll make sure I avoid it in the future.

  • Dog Food Ninja

    Hydrolyzed proteins are, consequently, full of excitotoxins.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi i8ok,

    How did the ingredients differ? You said on the website it listed “kelp, flax seed, hydrolyzed whitefish” and that the product label listed “kelp, flax seed, hydrolyzed whitefish”?

    Flax seed is often used as an Omega 3 supplement. Its use as a supplement for dogs and cats is a little controversial due to the fact that it is plant-based and contains high levels of Omega 6 fatty acids also. Plant-based fatty acids are not utilized as well by carnivores (like dogs and cats) as animal-based fatty acids (like fish oil). Also most dogs receive plenty of Omega 6 fatty acids in their diet (meat is loaded with Omega 6′s) and require only the addition of Omega 3′s to create a more desirable Omega 3 to Omega 6 ratio, due to the fact that flax also contains Omega 6′s more would have to be added to achieve the ideal ratio. However with this said, as long as your dog doesn’t show any sensitivities to flax (such as itching) I think it can be a good addition to the diet in moderation and in conjunction with a quality animal-based Omega 3 supplement.

    Stabilized flax seed just means that tocopherols have been added to slow oxidation. The Omegas found in flax are very sensitive and start to degrade when exposed to heat, light, or air.

    Hydolyzed white fish is created by using a fermentation process to break fish protein down into protein fragments that are generally only 2 – 3 amino acids long. This in a way “pre-digests” the protein and makes it more assimilable.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    Thanks!  I’ll check it out.

  • i8ok

    Hound Dog Mom,
    Last month I ordered Wholistic Canine Complete from WHOLISTIC PET ORGANICS. The ingredient list on their website http://wholisticpet.com/ is slightly different from the product label on the container I received by mailorder.Website - Ingredients: Organic Ascophylum nodosum (kelp), Organic, stabilized flaxseed, whitefish protein, …. Product label - Ingredients: Organic kelp, Organic flax seed, Hydrolyzed white fish, …The product container (tub) is Lot No CC.118.12.E.B6
    Best By 11/13 Canine Complete

    Flaxseed – I had initially wondered about feeding dogs flaxseed, and now I’m curious to know what stabilized flaxseed is.

    Whitefish – Is hydrolyzed a good thing or bad thing? I think I asked this last month on another post but can’t find it now. 

  • doggonefedup

    Sandy,
    If you like http://www.eatwild.com   then you are going to absolutely love http://www.localharvest.org/store/
    enter your zip code and get a list of local farms and farm markets. also mail order.   ” All Natural, Chemical and Pesticide free, USDA approved and  inspected Meats that taste like they should!”

  • Dog Food Ninja

    The website sandy gave you is a good way to find that stuff. Really, there are very few sources of clean meat now a days.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    go to http://www.eatwild.com and you can locate some farms near you.

  • 3goat4girl5

    I apparently need to go to a butcher for these; the grocery store has little to none.  Where can I get organic beef, pork & chicken organ meats?

  • 3goat4girl5

    My sister used to do soy…now she’s dying of breast cancer

  • 3goat4girl5

    Thx for the verification. 

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  • 3goat4girl5

    You seem to be pretty knowledgible about canids.  Are you a biologist?

  • 3goat4girl5

    It seems American Agriculture is in the business of poisoning us all for profit.  I may never buy any processed food again

  • 3goat4girl5

    and soy is in everything anymore; I’ll have to read labels non-stop to avoid it

  • Toxed2loss

    You heard right. 90% are GMO. :-p

  • Dog Food Ninja

     Actually, from some studies I read about, wolves shake the stomach free of it’s contents in large game animals before they eat it.  Now with small games animals like rabbit, fowl, and mice, the wolf will be eating the entire contents.  And yes, there are some important enzymes and vitamins in various organs… that’s why it’s imperative to feed your dog not just skeletal meat, but organs as well.  

  • Dog Food Ninja

     Avoid soy for your dog… and yourself!  Soy is not food… It is a concocted, processed mess of anti-nutrients, pytoestrigen, lectins, sugar, and all sorts of bad news!!

  • 3goat4girl5

    I have also heard that most soy beans are GMO with waaaay too much phytoestrogens in them. Maybe that means soy should be avoided at all costs.  Have you heard anything about this? 

  • 3goat4girl5

    dang – that’s so logical I feel like a total idiot.
    when a wolf eats a deer’s paunch, do they get any other goodies besides the digesting vegetable matter?  like desirable bacteria or digestive secretions?

  • 3goat4girl5

    thx a ton, I’ll check it out.  did you have any problems getting your dogs to like your homemade stuff? any digestive upset with any particular food?

  • hounddogmom12

    3goat4girl5,

    I agree with Dog Food Ninja – synthetic vitamins are not necessary. Vitamins are much more bioavailable in their natural form and  it is less taxing on the dog’s system to utilize vitamins and minerals derived from whole foods. I also make my food homemade and I don’t use any synthetic vitamins. I use whole foods supplements such as kelp, spirulina, bee pollen, and wheatgrass. These provide the trace vitamins and minerals that my dogs may not be getting from the meat, organs, bones, fruits, and veggies alone. Check out wholisticpet.com, they offer a wide variety of whole foods supplements that aren’t made in China. Nature’s Logic also offers a great whole foods supplement http://www.natureslogic.com/products/fortifier.html.

  • Dog Food Ninja

     If you are feeding a good variety of raw meat, bone, gizzards, and various colors of veggies, then your dog shouldn’t require any synthetic supplements.  Think about it: do wolves take vitamins?  Micro-nutrients should be derived from food, just like macro-nutrients are! :-)   

  • 3goat4girl5

    We have gotten away from store-bought dog foods & treats.  We make our own using recipes with supplements. However, now that you reveal vit-min supplements may have Chinese ingredients, we will have to look elsewhere for them. Any suggestions? 

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  • Dayofwine

    It’s not “impossible” to buy the vitamins elsewhere – it’s more costly. To my knowledge, foreign sourced vitamins and supplements have not been the cause for any concern. PROTEIN imports are absolutely unacceptable and should be avoided at all cost.   

  • Kaliberknl

    Please let me know if you get an answer.  TIA.

  • Kaliberknl

     A rep told me “It’s impossible to buy vitamins elsewhere.” 

  • Raven Flores

    How about Wellness Foods? Any of their ingredients sourced from China? They are refusing to answer me.

  • Pingback: Canidae, Natural Balance, Wellness Recall

  • Leasejr

    They admitted to me in email, that vitamins could be sourced from China thru one of their suppliers.  Scary thought, again premium product.  I expected so much more from them.  Work for a competitor company and quit giving my doxies their food.  Not sure this is any better.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    If you have a Nature’s Select distributor, you might look into them. They give a rescue/foster discount.

    http://www.naturalpetfooddelivery.com

  • melissa

     Marysdogsrescue-

    Since you rescue, (and price is usually a concern) have you looked into ProPac or Hi Tek?HI tek also makes a grain free. I would have said a few months ago that APHIS EU certification made a difference, but according to truthaboutdogfood(Susan Thixton) there have been changes in that as well, and its no longer an indicator of human quality foods being used. Just this week, she retracted what she had said about EU certification.

  • Dayofwine

     That’s not exactly factual… it’s not a “huge recall”… and I have to give diamond props for actually being responsible in issuing a voluntary, precautionary recall – which is certainly more than the majority of manufacturers would do. I don’t actually use any of their products but I am very familiar with them and extremely familiar with the Chinese import issue.

  • Marysdogsrescue

    This is exactly what we’re trying to do as well…our rescue is looking for a good source of nutrition for the dogs who come into our care. 

  • LabsRawesome

    Make your own raw food,Yes Diamond was implicated in the 2007 melamine recall, But to be fair, so were about 200 OTHER foods, that Diamond had nothing to do with. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/newpetfoodrecalls/

  • Make your own raw food

    Melissa,

    Diamond was responsible for the melamine recall a few years back. They DEFINITELY use Chinese ingredients! And are, in fact, having a huge salmonella recall right now.

  • Rebecca

    This is very interesting.  I recently went back and forth with Blue and Royal Canin about what was in their products.  Even though they tried to convince me that all products in their food come from the US, I finally asked the question: “where do the vitamin and minerals in the dog food come from”?  I already knew what that answer should have been and in an email it was confirmed that the vitamins and minerals in our pet food does, in fact, come from China.  Just think how easy it would be to poison this as well. 

    And, then I thought about the vitamins and minerals that my husband and I take (I’m scared).

  • Rochelle

    What about the law in Canada? Does it have the same loophole? Arcana and Orjien are made there. They state they are 100% china free.

  • marshmellows

    Ironic thing is, that Chinese tourists visiting the US buy tons of vitamins at GNC, Vitaminshoppe, et al, to bring back, bc they feel their own vitamins are inferior! seriously— It’s the first thing my overseas office asks me to send them.

    This is a supply chain issue. Same thing with cosmetics.

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_4YOUNPFLYBMVQ5VWRAYIN2DS2Y Sharkvictim

    C is made in  China!

    Out!

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_4YOUNPFLYBMVQ5VWRAYIN2DS2Y Sharkvictim

    I feed my two my dogs Surf & Turf by Fromm which is CHINA FREE!!!

  • Anboug

    I feed my dogs Wellness… I had contacted Wellness a while back and they told me the only ingredient not made in U.S. is the vitamin C…. don’t know what to do anymore…. 

  • melissa

     Monica-

    We use a lot of food but try to keep it to 30 days worth at a time. If I find a really good deal, I will buy 60 days worth-but be sure to store it appropriately-I store ours in the house, in a spare bedroom that has heat/ac and its kept out of the sunlight.

  • Monica Temple

    thanks Melissa.  Will follow up.

  • Monica Temple

    thanks Bob K.  Appreciate the input.  I have checked out recalls in the past… that’s what led me to not feed Evangers any longer.  Will follow up on that.

  • Bob K

    animalrescuer – Do not stock up on dry kibble – it gets bad over time, that is why there is a date stamp on most bags. 

    The US food source is not that good either and many vitamins come from China for both animals and humans.  If you think the US food has special safe foods – then Google food recalls in the US.   You will find all sorts of recalls both voluntary and ,mandated by the USDA and other agencies. 

  • melissa

     animalrescuer-

    Both those products are made by Diamond. Contact them and ask if they use Chinese ingredients.

  • animalrescuer

    I have spent lots of time researching the best ways to provide nutrition for our animals; since we rescue, most of them have special needs of one kind or the other.

    I avoid, as best I can, ingredients from China, but know they are ubiquitous!  Can anyone tell me if Kirklands dry dog food, which is highly rated, contains China ingredients?

    I have been feeding TOTW, but it is too expensive for me to continue.  I make my own stew from chicken and vegetables (sweet potato, etc), to add to the dry food and disguise individualized supplements, but am still concerned.

    I was feeding Evangers canned food to supplement the TOTW, but found out about that firestorm of unethical behavior.

    I have a dehydrator and make my own chicken and beef jerky. 

    I want to stock up on excellent dry food in case of emergency, but want to make sure I do not waste money on food that is not the best for them.   We rescue large dogs (and cats and occasionally horses), so cost is an issue.
    Any help out there?

  • Dog Gone Healthy

    The China import issues are bad but what people forget is dog food is made with low grade ingredients. Ask any one of these CEO’s to sit down to a table and feed their family the ingredients in their food….they wont!! I started my own business 2 years ago when I learned what is going on in the dog food market, Dog Gone Healthy in Florida, I make humane grade quality food and treats for dogs and cats. I even gave my 1 1/2 year old granddaughter a sweet potato chew I made when she was teething! 
    Someone complained about having to put treats in the fridge, do you want chemicals in them so they are on the counter or do you want something that is health and not going to make your pet sick? 

  • teresa

    waggin trails is the one that has  been warned NOTto give dogs!!!!!!!

  • Awtiller

    just so everybody knows.  There are cetain dog foods that are really killing dogs.  We just lost our healthy black lab to renal kidny failure who was barely 5 years old and healthy and did autopsy and a undefined toxin caused our dogs kidneys to fail and said there was no traces of anti-freeze either. so yes watch the food and treats your giving your dog.

  • LabsRawesome

    Hi Pam1228, Actually their are 3 brands that are suspect.   http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-recall/chicken-jerky-treats-suspects/

  • Pam1228

    This was posted on my face book page….Just wanted to make sure that you don’t buy Waggin Tail Dog Treats or any treat made in China….They have something in them that are slowly destroying your dogs kidneys and killing them.
     
    *On facebook*
    Ok everyone listen up. I just ran into my Vet they got a fax today and are warning everyone to stop giving your dogs these treats. They are slowly shutting down their kidneys and killing dogs. Because of something they have in them. She said do not buy any treats made in china right now. It’s a huge issue and is being investigated as we speak !!!!! Please repost and pass along. It’s a shame cause my dogs love them!!

  • Dgibson630

    I too wonder if there are any China based ingredients in so called “Premium Human Grade Pet Foods”. I read somewhere that a company is not obligated to disclose than an ingredient  is from China as long as the final product is manufactured in the USA! This is very troubling to say the least.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    That’s interesting.  Last year they were still sourcing rabbit from China.

  • Coonhound Guy

    I received the below note today concerning Natura pet foods and use of ingredients from China:

    Dear Jim, Thank you for contacting Natura Pet Products. We are pleased to hear of your interest in our products. We attempt to source all of our ingredients from the United States. However, after an exhaustive search, some ingredients simply cannot be sourced from within the U.S. as they just are not available.  For example, our venison use in some of our foods is currently sourced from New Zealand. Many food safety precautions are in place due to concerns raised by the use of foreign ingredients. Natura’s venison supplier is a global company that is committed to food safety and actually performs physical audits at the New Zealand manufacturer(s). However, we do not source any of our ingredients from China. Natura will not add anything to the food unless it is nutritious and healthful for a cat or dog. Natura became the first pet food company to guarantee its products are 100% free from melamine and cyanuric acid. Natura was also the first to guarantee that none of the ingredients it uses are sourced from China. If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact me at your convenience. However, I’m still just not sure that the above wording includes ingredients for vitamins.  I hope it does because I’ve used this food for my dog and cats for two years and it’s been great. Jim

  • monkey

    Acana and Orijen are china free according to their faq page. 

  • Jo Bighouse

    I am making my pet food supply totally China-import-free at Midas Touch Naturally Healthy Pets in Berryville, VA.  To do that it looks like I have to find food that does not include vitamins.  So far I have found only Nature’s Logic for the kibble and can section.  Anyone know of others?

  • Constance Slawecki

     This is one of the brands in question — studies still going on
    http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm280586.htm

  • Bob K

    Ken – A dog treat that needs to be refrigerated, how convenient. 

  • Deborah J. Austin
  • Ken Bryant

    I’m Ken from TriPom Chews in Maine. We make Chicken Jerky with no additives and no preservatives. It’s so preservative-free, we’re the only dog treat I know of that needs to be refrigerated…

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Ken-Bryant/100001209862041 Ken Bryant

    If you’re looking for a SAFE, REAL ‘American Made’ chicken jerky for dogs or cats, we started making our own Chicken Jerky for our 3 dogs after we ran across the FDA warning of 2008 about Chinese chicken treats making dogs sick or killing them. It turned into a cottage “Mom & Pop” business and we now sell our TriPom Chews online and in 20 stores in the New England area. Our products are the only homemade, handmade, ‘Maine Made’, ‘American Made’ Chicken Jerky produced from whole, restaurant-quality chicken breasts containing NO Additives and NO Preservatives. Our 3 Pomeranians (our babies!) taste test every batch for quality.

  • Kellygirl

    You were right not to buy it my little dog got terribly sick and almost died from eating those treats.

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    Mulligan Stew uses no Asian ingredients at all, as well.  Their vitamins come from whole foods in the ingredients (similar to Nature’s Logic).  This is one of the reasons, among others, that I’ve chosen to feed Mulligan Stew.

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    I don’t know if Canidae uses Asian vitamins or not, but even though they’re made by Diamond they are not a Diamond product (not that I know of, anyway).  So…maybe they use their own vitamin premix and not Diamond’s.  Just a thought.

  • melissa

     Lori-

    Isn’t Canidae made now by Diamond(makers of TOTW also)? Interesting that totw told you they use Chinese vitamins, but Canidae says they do not….

  • Lori J.

    I’ve been contacting alot of Pet Food companies about sourcing…..and yes, many get this and that from China…So far, Champion Foods (Orijen and Acana) and Canidae PROMISE PROMISE PROMISE that nothing comes from China….

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  • Marcia Thorpe4

    Hi Stefanie, I also have a year and half Shih Tzu. I also  feed her Menu.  I try not to get anything made in China!  Trader Jos Has started with NOTHING!!! made in China. For People and Pets.  Thank God.   Marcia

  • S Cq

    Do you know of a reputable site that reviews dog snacks/treats?  I was so excited to pick up a nice bag of chicken jerky at Costco until I inspected the bag; I noticed it clearly stated, “Made in China.”  The product contained chicken, vegetable glycerine, and natural flavors – which seemed like harmless ingredients.  I was tempted but just didn’t feel comfortable buying it.  I’m wondering if I’m being too careful.  The brand was Waggin’ Trails.

  • Zsulewski

    Boycott pet food made in China.
    Our pets are dying from their products.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Test comment

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Doglover,

    Thanks for bringing that inappropriate comment to my attention. It’s now been removed.

    In the future, if you ever come across a comment that is mean spirited or offensive, just click the “flag” icon to send it to me for moderation.

  • doglover

    really? 

  • Anonymous

    we just lost our dear “housepony” dog bruna, almost certainly due to chicken jerky treats imported from china.  we had just opened a bag–had no idea of all of the illnesses & deaths associated with these products, until we happened to see a story on a local TV station, http://www.wsmv, about another family who lost their dog in nearly identical circumstances.  pls spread the word to everyone you know who has a dogly family member, & consider signing this petition to ban the import of these deadly products.
    http://www.change.org/petitions/ban-dog-treats-imported-from-china

  • TriPom Chews

    I just worked a craft show over Thanksgiving weekend selling our TriPom Chews. I had flyers about the recent 2011 FDA warning about Chinese chicken treats and was giving them out and educating anyone I could stop who answered “yes” to the question, “do you have a dog or cat?” 

    A groomer I spoke with that weekend told me that she had a client whose dog just passed away from Chinese chicken. My dogs are my children, truly. I can only imagine how devastating that was for that family…

    If you’re looking for a REAL ‘American Made’ chicken treat, we started making our own Chicken Jerky after we ran across the FDA warning of 2008 about Chinese chicken treats making dogs sick or killing them. It turned into a cottage business and we now sell our TriPom Chews in 20 stores in the New England area. Our products are the only ‘Maine Made’, ‘American Made’, chicken jerky produced from whole, restaurant-quality chicken breasts containing NO Additives and NO Preservatives. We had to make them super wholesome as our 3 Pomeranians (our babies) taste test every batch for quality.

  • Beagleman

    LOL… Guess I should have my glasses on all the time.

  • Michelle

    Beagleman, HEY ROCKET SCIENTIST, YOU SPELLED “ETHOXYGUIN” WRONG!!!! It is spelled ethoxyquin. How does it feel to be called stupid? BURN!

  • Beagleman

    This is not a new thing. Hopefully consumer demand will help bring this to an end. Ethoxyguin diminish from the pet products was largely driven by public uproar. If enough people speak their mind even the scuzziest of companys listen.

  • erin c.

    And I was surprised the other day to see that canned DOLE PINEAPPLE doesn’t come from the U.S.

    Apple Juice? 1 company from the U.S.

    Which brings to mind all the fruit that is put in dog food–most likely from China, Taiwan, Brazil, wherever.

    What is the likelyhood that foreign fruit is regulated?

  • Pat Chapin

    The US has had its share of ‘food-related scandal’ and were it not for the Center of Disease Control having a fair quick whip hand, we might have lost a lot more populace from some of them. “US Made” is not a guaranty of anything wonderful either. Might it not be smarter since we are apparently unable to cast off the yoke of purchase from he Chinese, to imbue them with a desire to make better product? Question for the ages, for sure…………….

  • Dave M

    I am feeding my dogs Carna4 – all human grade ingredients from a bakery that makes human food. The food is great – not cheap but no need to add vitamins as it is all whole food. I m impressed. I feel that if you want human grade dog food – it will not be less expensive per pound than the meat and produce you purchase for your family.

  • Kari

    I was shopping for info on dog foods with the focus on finding the best quality product for the least amount of money (because my husband was just laid off and we are cutting conrners everywhere we can). I accidently stumbled on your site – and I am so gald I did! Your site has everything I need to do my compaision shopping in one place. Thank you so much for all the information your site provides us consumers. P.S. I now am aware of the quality I would be sacrificing for my dog’s food and I am looking at simply cutting back on treats and quanity of food rather than changing to a lesser quality. My dog is overweight anyway. He eats NutriSouce dry. I am keeping him on it since this is a 4 star dry food product. Thanks again.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Jill… Hoping to add a new section (in forum format) soon that will allow folks to share how they make homemade dog food, a recipe section to permit sharing as well as a section about raw feeding. Thanks for the kind words. Hope you’ll come back and share your homemade dog food experience. :)

  • Michelle

    Great info! I have been posting on this subject of vitamins being China sourced for a while now.Too bad China has cornered the market on vitamins….USA sourced doesn’t always mean high quality either, 4D meats, by-products,animal fat,moldy grains, and other disgusting ingredients, can be U S sourced too.

  • Jill Prescott

    Dr Sagman, I have passed your site onto hundreds of people. You have made a huge impact on me. My dear sweet Scottie passed away 3 weeks ago. He had addison’s disease. He loved my homemade doggy dinners and craved fresh fruit and vegetables. I wish I would have fed him the total raw diet. I now only have my 8 1/2 year old welsh and am determined to do everything in my power to have him live to at least 20!

  • Jill Prescott

    I am working into feeding all raw. So far so good. Meelo my welsh terrier has stopped itching which I believe was from his dog treats. He does well on Orijen fish but no matter what all kibbles are processed. It’s like us eating Kraft everyday.

  • Craig

    Lena, in my conversations with Blue Buffalo (as a retailer), they have indicated that their minerals and vitamins are mostly sourced from India and other non-Chinese Asian countries through a USA based vitamin/mineral pack supplier. It took me several tries to get that answer, however.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    HI Lena… Although I’m not crazy about the quality of Chines ingredients, I’m not convinced Made in the USA should be construed as an automatic guarantee of a super dog food.

  • Pingback: Is your dog’s food made from U.S. ingredients? You may be surprised! « Vitality Chiropractic Center

  • Lena

    Interesting, I just called Blue Buffalo, and they told me they “try” to use all US sources. BUT if not available, they use outside.
    Exactly, what you are saying……
    I think I am going to feed Newmans Organic, only, they seem to state they are all US made. What do you think?

  • http://www.StefaniesShihTzus.com Stefanie

    This is one big reason I feed Nature’s Logic. They do not add vitamins to their food. It is 100% natural. As a breeder of Shih Tzu I have to have a food I believe in and have been through 19 brands of food in my time of owning my own dogs. As we go we learn. My family tells me the dogs eat better than we do, that might very well be true :)

  • Adele

    Its really frustrating to try to continually make sure that my dog is eating what I believe she is eating. Now I have something new to worry about – Chinese Vitamin C. If 90% of the US Vitamin C is made in China, then you can be sure its in what we humans consume as well. First they are in our computers and now they are in our stomachs. HELP. I’m falling and I can’t get up!!!!

  • Jonathan

    “Sure. Anything’s possible.
    Even a broken clock is right twice a day.”

    Love it. :-) Your essays get better and better.