Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry)

by Mike Sagman
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Rating: ★★★★☆

Eagle Pack Dry Dog Food receives the Advisor’s second-highest tier rating of 4 stars.

The Eagle Pack product line includes nine dry dog foods, seven claimed to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult maintenance and two recipes for growth (Puppy recipes).

The following is a list of recipes available at the time of this review.

  • Eagle Pack Senior
  • Eagle Pack Puppy
  • Eagle Pack Power Adult
  • Eagle Pack Original Adult Small Bites
  • Eagle Pack Reduced Fat Adult (3 stars)
  • Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult
  • Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Puppy
  • Eagle Pack Original Adult Lamb Meal and Rice
  • Eagle Pack Original Adult Pork Meal and Chicken Meal

Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult was selected to represent the other products in the line for this review.

Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult

Dry Dog Food

Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content

Protein = 27% | Fat = 14% | Carbs = 51%

Ingredients: Chicken meal, ground brown rice, ground white rice, ground yellow corn, chicken fat (preserved with natural mixed tocopherols), dried beet pulp, pork meal, brewers dried yeast, anchovy & sardine meal, flaxseed, dried egg product, wheat germ meal, potassium chloride, dl-methionine, vitamins [vitamin A supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin E supplement, riboflavin supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, d-calcium pantothenate, niacin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, folic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), biotin], minerals [polysaccharide complexes of zinc, iron, manganese and copper, cobalt carbonate, potassium iodate, sodium selenite], choline chloride, dried kelp, lecithin, rosemary extract, glucosamine hydrochloride, Yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Enterococcus faecium, Bacillus subtilus, Bacillus licheniformis, Aspergillus oryzae and Aspergillus niger fermentation products, mixed tocopherols (a natural preservative)

Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 3.9%

Red items when present indicate controversial ingredients

Estimated Nutrient Content
MethodProteinFatCarbs
Guaranteed Analysis24%13%NA
Dry Matter Basis27%14%51%
Calorie Weighted Basis24%31%45%

The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.

The second ingredient is brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that (once cooked) can be fairly easy to digest. However, aside from its natural energy content, rice is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

The third ingredient is white rice, a less nutritious form of rice in which the grain’s healthier outer layer has been removed.

The fourth item is corn. Corn is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain. And aside from its energy content, this grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

For this reason, we do not consider corn a preferred component in any dog food.

The fifth ingredient is chicken fat. Chicken fat 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 doesn’t sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.

The sixth ingredient lists beet pulp. Beet pulp is a controversial ingredient, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing.

Some denounce beet pulp as an inexpensive filler while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits.

We only call your attention here to the controversy and believe the inclusion of beet pulp in reasonable amounts in most dog foods is entirely acceptable.

The seventh ingredient includes pork meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate.

The eighth ingredient includes brewers yeast which can be a controversial item. Although it’s a by-product of the beer making process, this ingredient is rich in minerals and other healthy nutrients.

Fans believe yeast repels fleas and supports the immune system.

Critics argue yeast ingredients can be linked to allergies. This may be true, but (like all allergies) only if your particular dog is allergic to the yeast itself.

In addition, a vocal minority insists yeast can increase the risk of developing the life-threatening condition known as bloat. However, this is a claim we’ve not been able to scientifically verify.

In any case, unless your dog is specifically allergic to it, yeast can still be considered a nutritious additive.

What’s more noteworthy here is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The ninth ingredient is anchovy and sardine meal, yet another high protein meat concentrate.

Fish meal is typically obtained from the “clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings” of commercial fish operations.1

What’s more, the controversial chemical ethoxyquin is frequently used as a preservative in fish meals.

But because it’s usually added to the raw fish before processing, the chemical does not have to be reported to consumers.

We find no public assurances from the company this product is ethoxyquin-free.

Without knowing more, we would expect to find at least a trace of ethoxyquin in this product.

The tenth ingredient is flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided they’ve 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.

The eleventh ingredient is dried egg product, a dehydrated form of shell-free eggs. Quality can vary significantly. Lower grade egg product can even come from commercial hatcheries — from eggs that have failed to hatch.

In any case, eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value.

The next ingredient is wheat germ meal. Wheat germ is a nutritious by-product of the wheat milling process and also rich in dietary fiber, B-vitamins and minerals.

However, since it contains at least 25% plant-based protein and depending upon the amount, this ingredient can boost the total protein reported on the label — 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 product.

With two notable exceptions…

First, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.

And lastly, this food also 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.

Eagle Pack Dry Dog Food
The Bottom Line

Judging by its ingredients alone, Eagle Pack dry dog food looks like an average dry product.

But ingredient quality by itself cannot tell the whole story. We still need to estimate the product’s meat content before determining a final rating.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 27%, a fat level of 14% and estimated carbohydrates of about 51%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 27% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 49% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.

Near-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

When you consider the protein-boosting effects of the dried brewers yeast, flaxseed and wheat germ meal, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a moderate amount of meat.

Bottom line?

Eagle Pack dry dog food is a plant-based kibble using a moderate amount of chicken, lamb or pork meals as its main sources of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4 stars.

Highly recommended.

Please note some products may have been given higher or lower ratings based upon our estimate of their total meat content.

Special Alert

Rice ingredients can sometimes contain arsenic. Until the US FDA establishes safe upper levels for arsenic content, pet owners may wish to limit the total amount of rice fed in a dog's daily diet.

A Final Word

The descriptions and analyses expressed in this and every article on this website represent the views and opinions of the author.

Although it's our goal to ensure all the information on this website is correct, we cannot guarantee its completeness or its accuracy; nor can we commit to ensuring all the material is kept up-to-date on a daily basis.

Each review is offered in good faith and has been designed to help you make a more informed decision when buying dog food.

However, our rating system is not intended to suggest feeding a particular product will result in specific health benefits for your pet.

For a better understanding of how we analyze each product, please read our article, "The Problem with Dog Food Reviews".

Remember, no dog food can possibly be appropriate for every life stage, lifestyle or health condition. So, choose wisely. And when in doubt, consult a qualified veterinary professional for help.

In closing, we do not accept money, gifts or samples from pet food companies in exchange for special consideration in the preparation of our reviews or ratings.

To learn how we support the cost of operating this website, please visit our public Disclosure and Disclaimer page.

Have an opinion about this dog food? Or maybe the review itself? Please know we welcome your comments.

Notes and Updates

02/25/2010 Original review
09/27/2010 Updated
09/04/2011 Updated (name changes, added Senior)
03/10/2013 Last Update

  1. Association of American Feed Control Officials ↩
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  • Alexandra

    Hi Susan,

    I mentioned the potato, because that is what caused my GSD to have his issues. He had a condition called systemic candida. Potato is feeds this yeast which IF your dog was having yeasty ears, they won’t get better until you starve the yeast back into balance.

    Still use the probiotic.

    Good luck.

  • Pattyvaughn

    Not all BB is grain free so make sure you get the right one. And dogs that have bacterial infections benefit from being fed multi strain probiotics. Recurrant ear infections are usually yeast, not always, but usually.

  • InkedMarie

    Notice that Alexandra said IF your dog is having yeast ear infections. Since you dog is not, feel free not to follow her advice.

  • http://www.facebook.com/SuZen.Forton Susan J Forton

    Thanks for the info! However my dogs ear infection is not a yeast infection so I am not sure why you think potato may be an issue. Anyways my vet used to sell Eagle Pack but since the quality has been depleted since the company was sold she no longer reccomends it and suggested several other foods including Blue Buffalo which is ‘grain free’. So I am gonna try this out first, but thanks for the suggestion and I will ask my vet about the yeast and it having to do with ear infections.

  • Alexandra

    Hi Susan,

    If your dog is having recurring ear infections that are caused by yeast, I would offer food that does not have white potato in it. Potato is a high glycemic food and as such, it breaks down to sugar which feeds the yeast.

    I would add a high quality probiotic to help replenish the gut flora.

    For foods you can try: Earthborn Holiistic (great plains and meadow feast only), Orijen, Brothers Complete-only available at: http://www.brotherscomplete.com. Natures Variety Instinct is also potato free.

  • http://www.facebook.com/SuZen.Forton Susan J Forton

    I AGREE!

  • http://www.facebook.com/SuZen.Forton Susan J Forton

    I have had my three labs on Eagle Pack 9 years, but a few years ago when the company was sold the quality has gone down a lot. My vet informed me to switch foods because the quality of Eagle Pack is poor. One of my labs has a recurring ear infection and i think it is because The quality of Eagle Pack is no longer a premium food. I have switched to Blue Buffalo and hope it proves to be a high quality food. Plus I like the ‘grain free’ food since I had my dogs on the ‘raw food’ diet for years until it became too expensive 5 years ago.

  • Divi

    We had our Dogue De Bordeaux on this brand of food, Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Puppy, for a few months. He enjoyed the food but it cuase him to have growing pains and IBS. After reading the quality of the food I can see why.

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  • CYFFAN

    I feed my greyhound Eagle Pack. She has done wonderfully on this food. Originally I tried a more expensive food that was supposed to be highly rated. It gave her terrible diarrhea. She has had perfect stool on Eagle Pack.

  • http://www.facebook.com/joan.ferranti Jo-an Ferranti

    I LOVE THIS DOG FOOD ,WE HAVE A RESCUE AND SHE HAD SKIN PROBLEMS ,WHEN WE GOT OUR TWO GREAT DANE PUPPIES LAST JULY THE BREEDER USED  EAGLE PACK, ALL FOUR OF MY DOGS LOVE IT ,I TRAVEL 17 MILES ONE WAY TO GET IT ,EVERY TWO WEEKS .THEIR COAT ,BLACK,  IS SO SOFT AND SHINY,SOME OF THEIR BROTHERS AND SISTERS ARE ON IT TOO

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1140685339 Betsy Greer

    Thanks, Shawna! Me too! : )

    What an incredibly kind, caring and think-outside-the-box vet he is indeed! I know how incredibly fortunate I am to have so many fabulous resources right here in my own backyard.

    His only downfall…, he doesn’t do primary care. ; )

    Here’s Dr. Dan’s website: http://evetclinic.com/about

  • Shawna

    I read your earlier comments today as well as before..  I like your Dr. Dan!!!!  I’m sooooo glad you were able to find him!!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1140685339 Betsy Greer

    This reminds me of my conversation with the fabulous Dr. Dan from earlier today regarding Sam’s pano. Dr. Dan said that high protein did not contribute to Sam’s current condition, nor would a continued high protein diet adversely impact his health. In fact, he told me he liked Sam’s current diet and not to change it (other than feed a bit less because we need to control the weight gain a bit more).

  • Shawna

    Eagle ~~ I’m unclear why your vet would recommend a lower protein diet?  Does your pup have kidney or liver disease?

    This article from the Jennifer Larsen Veterinary Nutrition at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital writes how they have disproven protein as being problematic in large breed puppies (as well as adults).  Calcium is an issue but again ONLY during growth.

    “The same group went on to investigate the individual dietary components and demonstrated that dietary protein level had no effect on the development of osteochondrosis (Nap, et. al, 1991). For some reason, dietary protein level continues to be incriminated by some owners, breeders, and veterinarians, despite the lack of supportive evidence.”  http://www.lgd.org/library/Optimal%20feeding%20of%20large%20breed%20puppies.pdf

    There is no reason to feed a low/lower protein diet other than liver and later stage kidney disease.  Too little protein causes more harm than good.

  • Eagle

    thanks again Shawna. Its amazing the uses for vinegar. I don’t think it would hurt to try a few digestive supplements and see what happens.

    Eagle.

  • Eagle

    thank you Betsy I will take a look.

    Eagle.

  • Eagle

    I believe so losul. It is only something recently that has come on. So that is why I started to look more closely at his food. I tried the Fromm Beef Veggie, Fromm Pork and Applesauce and no dice. I tried the Performatrin Grain Free (he does like that but my Vet says that the all life stages is too high in Protein and Calcium) I tried some of these because I thought they were better than the eagle pack.
    The current Eagle is 24% Protein and the Performatrin Grain Free is 37%. He seems to like the Turkey, salmon and duck mix though. I wonder if there is a good one out there like that lower in protein more like 24%?
    It might be hard to get him off it now he likes it.

    He does like the Fromm beef shredded in the can. But now the Pet valu has discontinued that one by my place. He does like that one occasionally though but wouldn’t eat it everyday.

    That is why I was looking at the Digestive supplements . Because I am thinking he needs something extra no matter what kibble he is on. 

    Eagle.

  • Shawna

    Many of us here, including Dr. Mike, advocate a rotational diet.  Or, not feeding the same food all the time.  Some change their dogs food every day, others give a new food once they use up a bag and others change every 3 months or so. 

    I rotate with every new bag of food and I buy the smaller 5ish pound bags of food.  I change protein and carb type as well as brands.  Example — right now I am feeding Earthborn Primitive Natural with turkey, chicken and potatos.  When finished I might feed Brothers Complete Red Meat formula with beef, turkey and tapioca.  Then switch to Orijen fish with fish and white potato. 

    So, if any of my dogs are sensitive to potato they get a break from it.  Or if any have a chicken intolerance they’re not continuously exposed to chicken.  The body is amazing and can do a good job of protecting itself from foods that cause it problems UNLESS that food is fed non stop.  Eventually the defenses break down and that is when we see symptoms. 

    The best time to start a rotational diet is as a puppy but older dogs can be on a rotation diet too.  By only feeding one food we have conditioned their guts to be sensitive to other foods but if we transition to the new food slowly it can be done.  Eventually the gut should get accustomed to new foods and the transition times can be lessened or even eliminated.

  • Shawna

    You are very welcome Eagle :)

    I think giving supplements that help with digestion are beneficial for dogs of any age on any diet.  Here’s just one example :)

    Probiotics — good gut bacteria helps prevent bad bugs eaten from doing as much, if any, damage.  A certain tribe back in the day would eat horse and camel poop to prevent and cure dysentery.  Feces is a source of probiotics.  I’m thankful we have supplements now :)

    Good gut bacteria create vitamins, like the B’s and K, as they feed on the fiber in the foods we eat. 

    Probiotics even help to create a stronger immune system.  Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered that probiotics “prime” neutrophil white blood cells.  Neutrophils are one of the first on the scene when the body is being invaded.  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100127095945.htm

    Probiotics, when fed the foods they eat (aka prebiotics), can be a big benefit to older dogs who may be struggling with healthy kidneys.  Probiotics help to remove some of the waste products, like blood urea nitrogen, through the colon sparing the kidneys the extra work.  This is referred to as “nitrogen trapping”.

    This is one of my favorite articles on probiotics and is written by two M.D.s and N.D. and a Pharmacist.  It’s more detailed than what many care to know and is 20 pages long so if you decide to give it a read you have been warned :)   http://www.edwardsdrugs.com/PDF/moregeneralhealth/Dysbiosis%20and%20Probiotics.pdf

    The probiotics and enzymes that Betsy recommended are ones that I would recommend too..  Apple cider vinegar can be purchased at any health food store and often at regular grocers too.  Braggs is a quality brand that has “the mother”.  The mother is just the floating spider web of good bacteria and yeast that caused the apples to become cider vinegar.  You can add as little as maybe 6 to 8 drops to the food or you can dilute the vinegar with water (some dogs prefer this) and add maybe a tablespoon.  Very inexpensive and a great aide to digesting protein.

    I had one more thought for you but this post is long emough so starting another. 

  • losul

    Eagle, just for your info, just got an EM from Amazon. a number of different Eagle Pack foods went on sale today.

    the most dollars off look to be the original Adult formula (small bites) 30lb for 35.99 +4.99 shipping. Others on sale are the original (reg size) the senior formula, large and giant breed, etc. 8 kinds in all.

    When I looked yesterday, or the day before, if I’m not mistaken, i think the 30 lber’s went for between $53 and 58 + shipping.from Amazon, but i don’t even know what would be considered good pricing on this food.

    Before SOMEONE even begins to falsely accuse me of something, I’m just posting this as a courtesy to Eagle (the poster), NOTHING more. I’m not  advocating use of Eagle dogfood, never have used their brand(s), maybe never will, never have ordered any dog food from Amazon, only parrot feed. For all I know the vendor could be unloading stale or soon to be stale product. So take it FWIW, NOTHING more. Sorry about all the disclaimers Mr Eagle.

  • losul

    Eagle,  is your dog having digestive issues?

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1140685339 Betsy Greer

    Hi Eagle, I couldn’t agree more, I have learned so much here.

    If you are looking for probiotics and digestive enzymes, I’d recommend the Mercola ones I’ve been using with much success: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/products.aspx. I even started using the Mercola human versions for myself.

  • losul

    “And nobody knows the LT effects of all those other  exotic ingredients used in so many “high end” foods”

    read more here;

    http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/frequently-asked-questions/dog-food-ingredients/

  • Eagle

    Wow I cant believe the information I obtain off this site. I love this site. Thank you for your reply. I was looking at some digestive aids to use as supplements. There is so much to know and sometimes it is confusing but I am learning more everyday.

    Eagle.

  • Eagle

    Thank you losul and yes he is on the Pork meal one.

    Eagle.

  • losul

    I’m just presenting another side of the story Shawna, the best, and most honest way i know how to.

    http://www.greatdanelady.com/articles/the_corn_myth.htm

    I’m not at all advocating the use of high quantities and/or low qualities of corn products IF using it at all. If a person does decide to go the corn route, Eagle pack could be one of the bestAnd i don’t agree with everything Ms Arndt says either, especially when it comes to LT use of rosemary.

    And nobody knows the LT effects of all those other  exotic ingredients used in so many “high end” foods

  • losul

    Hey Eagle.

    Here Mike is reviewing the large and giant breed formula, and his list of ingredients is correct , according to the Eagle pack website. I suspect you are using the original adult formula, and the ingredient list changes somewhat, from what Mike is reviewing,

    This is probably what you are seeing on your bag. pork meal first, instead of the chicken meal first for the large and giant breeds, ground whole corn second, ground brown rice third, ground white rice fourth, and chicken meal 7th.

     I wouldn’t see it as too a big deal though, they are just making adjustments according to their analysis to keep in line with their specs for different uses. What I am saying is if JUST for instance (this is only a wild guess), maybe the original adult  includes something like 20% pork meal,  12% whole ground corn, 11 % ground brown rice, 10% ground white rice, and chicken meal in 7th place, while the large and giant breed could have 20% chicken meal, 12% ground brown rice, 11% ground white rice 10% whole ground corn, and pork meal in 7th place. 

    But I would suggest calling the manufacturer for more specifics. You could always use the large and giant breed instead of the original if that somehow suited you better, but it probably wouldn’t be advised from the manufacturer, unless your dog fits that category. The senior formula might be more appropriate for your dog (I think you said he was 11?) Chicken meal first, ground whole corn third, etc. etc.

  • Shawna

    PS –  You mention your concern about calcium in the grain/corn free foods.  I’m assuming that is because your pup is a large breed dog?  If so, large breed adults don’t need to worry about calcium.  Higher calcium is only a concern when in the growing stage.

  • Shawna

    Hi Eagle ~~ I’m one of those that think corn should not be in dog foods. 

    Losul mentions that nutritionist Linda Arndt says corn is a low allergen food.  This is true but “true” food allergies are pretty uncommon.  A true allergy is an immunoglobulin E (IgE) response.  What Linda neglects to say is that corn also causes intolerances (an IgA response by the body).  And intolerances are pretty common.

    The protein (aka gluten) in corn can also cause major disease in people and pets that are suseptible.  It can cause villous atrophy.  This is when the tiny hairs, the villi, in the gut are damaged to the point that they can not absorb the nutrients from the food.  The first signs of this may be symptoms of malnutrition which may not even be linked back to the diet.  Example — a common cause of hypothryoid is too little iodine in the diet or the inability to digest the iodine eaten (like due to villous atrophy).

    Corn has an anti nutrient called phytic acid.  Phytic acid binds with minerals like calcium, zinc, magnesium etc and prevents them from being absorbed by the body.  This can lead to a malnutrition in any one or several of those minerals.  A deficiency in magnesium increases the risks, and can even cause, seizures.

    In suseptible persons and pets a protein in corn, called a lectin, can also cause inflammation in the digestive tract and lead to diseases like IBD and colitis.  It can also cause the gut to “leak” which allows undigested food into the blood stream.  Leaky gut is what causes true allergies.

    Lectins can also get into the blood stream in small amounts with normal digestion.  If the pup is intolerant (which you may not know til it is too late) the lectin can stick to organs.  That’s what lectins are designed to do – to stick (they make glue out of corn lectins I’ve read).  Once stuck to an organ or gland etc the immune system will attack that gland in order to fight the lectin.  This is the birth of an autoimmune disease.  Lectins are linked, via science, to autoimmune diseases.

    Veterinarian Dr John Symes (aka Dogtor J) has some great data on why to avoid corn (and a few other foods) on his website.  He talks about much of what I mentioned above but discusses some of the science behind it (like how corn causes leaky gut).  Dogtor J refers to corn as one of the “big 4″ foods to avoid.  http://dogtorj.com/what-is-food-intolerance/what-is-the-leaky-gut/

    One final thought — they have discovered, some time ago, that senior dogs actually need increased protein BECAUSE they don’t digest as well.  An inexpensive and easy way to help dogs digest the higher protein foods is to add a little apple cider vinegar (with the mother) to the meal.  The acv mimics the hydrochloric acid in the stomach.  Some older dogs and people do not make as much hydrochloric acid as they did when younger.  HCL is needed as it causes the enzyme pepsin, in the stomach, to activate.  Pepsin breaks down protein.  Adding enzymes to the diet is very helpful as well.  A complete product can be purchases that helps break down fats, proteins and carbs. 

    Here’s Vet Dr. Karen Becker discussing the increased protein need in seniors (I can provide links to nutritionists sites with the research too if you want).  http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/05/05/surprising-findings-from-tufts-study-of-37-senior-dog-foods.aspx

    Sorry for the length :)

  • losul

    IMO, yes it’s much better. At least it is whole, the manufacturer is not trying to hide the quantity of it with split ingredients, such as corn, corn meal, corn gluten meal, etc. which could way up the corn percentage, and/or not using just the low value parts of it.

    So if you or your dog doesn’t have problems/concerns with corn, then this would definitely be one of the better one’s to use that DOES have corn as an ingredient. My main concern with corn is using too much of it over long periods of time, and possible aflatoxins. I think the use of whole corn would mitigate much of that risk.

    Here is some of what Linda Arndt, a former insider at Eagle Foods, nutritionist- the Great Dane Lady has to say about corn and Eagle foods

    “In the instance of Eagle Dog Foods use of whole corn, Eagle grinds whole corn fresh human grade #1 corn for their products and they do not use any genetically engineered corn. It is bought from local farmers and no pesticides are applied from the day the seed is planted until the corn is picked. High quality whole corn is an excellent carbohydrate that is “used” as a carbohydrate source, not counted as protein source and it is not listed first on the ingredient panel. The fact is, legitimate research shows whole corn, to be considered very low on the list of foods that cause allergic reactions.”

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    Right now the only reason I avoid corn is that about 95% of corn is genetically modified.  There are only a few companies that state no GMO ingredients on their website.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    you can try dogfoodscoop dot com, dogfoodanalysis dot com and dogfoodchat dot com.

    http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/frequently-asked-questions/rate-dog-food/

  • Eagle

    Thanks Mike

    I guess I just became concerned about the corn as everyone seems to think its a low grade ingredient. Some of the Grain and corn free are high in Protein and calcium. Even though I would like to see him on one of those dry foods I wonder if those are too hard for him to digest as a senior?

    Thank you
    Eagle

  • Eagle

    Losul

    You seem very knowledgable. The ground Whole Corn is that better than some other of the corns?
    I use the Original Eagle Adult blue bag. Is the corn really something I should be concerned about? 
    Thank you
    Eagle

  • Sharon

    I have used Eagle Pack Dry (Chicken) for years. My dogs have done very well on this product. Recommend by Pet Supplies Plus, Indianapolis, IN. Their coats are shinny, they are healthy, I highly recommend this Dog food to any one out there looking for a good dog food.

  • losul

    I think Mike is very consistent, fair, trustworthy, and totally unbiased in his ratings. He’s about as good as it gets, based on the available information.

    Probably if not for the corn which is ground WHOLE corn BTW, or too much rice, it could be a 5 star product, and even though the product is more plant based, most of the protein is good quality animal protein.The wheat germ meal is not a cheap filler. It happens to be the best part of the wheat, highly nutritious, healthy balance of omega 6′s and 3′s, and high in Vit E.Which foods that Mike rated 3′s are those that you think are perfectly healthy and deserve more?

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com/ Mike Sagman

    Hi Veronica Tomlinson,

    I’m sorry you feel my reviews are “very inconsistent”. For consistency has always been an objective in every one of the 750+ reviews I’ve published.

    Please remember, it’s not just about the ingredients but also about the amount of meat contained in a product that determines each rating.

    Hope this helps.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com/ Mike Sagman

    Hi Eagle,

    Please click on the attached screen capture of the Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult product – an image just taken today from the official Eagle Pack website.

    Please note I’m using the “Large and Giant Breed” formula for my example.

    Either you’re feeding your pet from a different product, an out-of-date package or a newer recipe that the company has yet top update on their website.

    In any case, since we revisit each product at least once every 18 months, this product is not scheduled to be researched and updated sometime in March of 2013.

    Hope this helps.

  • Veronica Tomlinson

    My question as well. It really makes no sense. You can have a food that has no corn and has premium ingredients and it will get a three star rating, but then you can have a food that has corn wheat beet pulp etc. and it will get four stars? It really just makes me wonder about the validity of this website.

  • Veronica Tomlinson

    I am really beginning question your reviews. You’ll give a perfectly healthy food with great ingredients three stars, but you give this one four stars even though it has several questionable ingredients? Your reviews are very inconsistent and really have no rhyme or reason. They leave me very puzzled. I will have to find another source for my reviews.

  • Pattyvaughn

    I don’t remember the exact time frame, but they are given a certain amount of time to use up old labels before they have to have the new accurate label on the food.

  • Larry P

     Dog food labels are supposed to be accurate. The FDA just doesnt enforce it.

  • Pattyvaughn

    Unfortunately dog food companies do this all the time without warning.  They can completely change ingredients and actually have a period of time before the changes even have to appear on the label.

  • Eagle

    Interesting about the Corn as #4. My bag I currently have reads as #2. Your review reads as Sept. 2011. So sometime this year they changed the order and who knows what else.  Although I use reg. Adult which has Pork Meal as #1 I suspect the corn was lower down as well. I’m starting to wonder about this company. At one time I thought it was one of the better ones but its changing.

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  • Kaw5885

    How did a food with wheat and corn make it up to 4 stars?  

  • Gigi

    Elizabeth L. let your cat eat what he wants. After all he does not understand healthy he is only a pet. Let him be happy, for all you know something might be going on inside of him. Keep him as long as you can just keeping him happy.

  • Elizabeth Ledford

    Our pets have been on Wellness Core most of their lives. We give them regular Vet visits and the dogs get good exercise. They’ve always been healthy and enjoyed their food. Five years ago we adopted an alley cat (I know this is a site for dog food but this seems my best option).  Recently he quit eating. Just stopped all at once. We took him to the vet and everything checked out okay. The vet said he might have become bored with the food so we mixed it up. We’ve tried Earthborn Primitive Feline, Orijen Cat and EVO canned. He wouldn’t eat. We went back to the vet and nothing was wrong accept he was losing weight that he didn’t need to lose. Our vet isn’t a Science Diet pusher and all of the foods we had tried had been foods they agreed would be great choices. Finally I ended up with free samples of Eagle Pack. I put a pouch in his bowl and he ate it like I had intentionally starved him for the past month. I hate feeding this food because I’ve always avoided corn. All he wants is the junk stuff and hes making his little self sick by starving. It’s so bizarre to me. Should we feel guilt over letting him have this food? The other options seemed pretty poor. I’ve even been making home prepped meals. He won’t eat anything that isn’t cooked. He doesn’t like very much that is cooked. Sometimes he will eat a bit of my breakfast steak or a bit of chicken breast. He won’t touch fish. Last week we found him on the counter eating a plain baked potato…skin only. And on Sunday he pulled a plain piece of corn on the cob down and ate half of it just like a human would eat it. He is stressing me out. Advice of any kind would be great.

  • Dimes105

    find another brand to pick on  i LOVE this food for my dogs

  • Dimes105

    i have two great dane puppies 4 months old ,mom was on it  so i stayed with it they are so shiny black people think i put oil on them, i also have a mix breed that had skin problems vet didn’t know what was wrong,started her on it and she is not scratching anymore ,i love this food for them

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    I believe corn also does not contain all 10 essential amino acids.  It has to be complimented with other ingredients (like soy or wheat or other) to get all 10 amino acids into the dog food.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com/ Mike Sagman

    Hi Bryan,

    There’s a lot of confusion about corn (and wheat) gluten meal.

    Manufacturers that use is claim it is highly digestible – which it is.

    However, compared to meat, gluten meals are inferior plant-based proteins slightly lower in some of the essential amino acids dogs need for life.

    For example, a 2003 study by Wakshlag at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine concluded that…

    …lean body wasting in adult canines can be associated with the consumption of low protein diets consisting of predominantly corn gluten, which is likely due to imbalances or subclinical deficiencies of specific essential amino acids, and that low protein diets may augment accumulation of adipose tissue.

    It would be unfair to say corn gluten meal isn’t a nutritious ingredient in a dog food. However, compared to meat, it would be reasonable to call it nutritionally inferior.

    Hope this helps.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    I would consider corn a low quality ingredient. It does have a high digestibility (when processed properly) but it has a low biological value for dogs, can often be contaminated with aflatoxin, is high glycemic, and corn is often genetically modified. Dogs don’t need any grains, including corn, so it’s kind of a cheap filler. Obviously companies (like Purina) that sell corn based foods are going to talk up corn to make their foods look better. With that said, back when I fed grain inclusive kibble I did use Eagle Pack on a few occasions (the lamb and rice variety I believe) and had no issues with it. I know my mom uses it occasionally in her rotation for her dog and he does fine with it. Eagle Pack isn’t a horrible food, but there are definitely better options out there and it’s always best to go grain free if possible (in my opinion). When deciphering labels it’s important to ask yourself “What would a dog eat if people weren’t around?” – the answer will not be grains.

  • http://profile.yahoo.com/DGCWEVQLF4HCWAB3WYL3D5WJPE Bryan

    This food confuses me as well. A neighbor feeds it to her GS Dog and mentioned the corn in it concerns her. I told her she might want to go with Healthwise if she wanted a better budget food. Then I checked here and saw that it is actually rated a 4 and was kinda surprised. Many of the formulas contain corn gluten meal. I had always assumed this was a very poor ingredient. After a bit of study at different pet food company sites I’ve discovered it is “HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE”? Purina (on the Pro Plan page) claims it sports a digestibility rate higher than fresh chicken! I’m confused about corn gluten in a bad way. Is it a bad ingredient?! I know wheat gluten is undesirable and veggie proteins have a lower biological value but purina seems to be saying the opposite. I’m sure Nestle isn’t the most trustworthy company but Royal Canin and Nutro have pages similar to the one from Purina. Are they all full of junk? 

  • LA

    have you ever thought of doing raw the RR do great on it -  I know quite a few show handler/breeders in RR and they all do Raw.   Take a look at the 5 star raw Primal, Stella, Darwins.    I don’t like that Eagle contains corn but I know several bulldog breeders that use Eagle and the only problem they have is tear stains.

  • Raymond

    Have been feeding 2 very active Rhodesian Ridgebacks Eagle Pack with good results for 2 months. Getting a 9 wk old RR puppy and wondering if this same food will be good for them. Had been feeding Canidae All Life Stages to the adult RRs since 5 wks old. Did great till recall. Anyone have any thoughts?

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  • http://www.facebook.com/nick.chomack Nick Chomack

    I have an 8 month old Black Lab puppy and Eagle Pack was recommended to me by our breeder. I am extremely happy with the Eagle Pack Large Breed Puppy formula that we have been using. His coat is VERY shiny and he loves the taste of it. I get comments all the time at the dog park about his build and coat appearance. I would highly recommend this for your puppies. 

  • Bob K

    HJ -  Fairly similar is not the same,  A dog food processing plant can
    make several different formulas on the same mfg. process line with
    different ingredients, formulas, proportions, etc……  That is why
    this website exists to help understand the label and what you are really
    getting.  Every brand and formula does not need a separate dedicated
    plant or processing line to produce a different food.   READ the LABEL
    closely, there is a difference.  Then understand the % protein, % fat
    and % carbohydrates.   Chicken by-product meal is very different than
    Chicken meal or Pork Meal.   If your dog food store is telling you that
    the two foods are the same just different bags, they are full of it and
    misinformed. 

    Prism Adult 26/18: Chicken by-product meal, ground yellow corn, ground brown
    rice, chicken fat (preserved with natural mixed tocopherols), pork meal, Dried
    Beet Pulp

    Eagle Pack Original Adult: Pork Meal, Ground Yellow Corn, Ground Brown Rice, Ground
    White Rice, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried
    Beet Pulp,

    More examples:  An Ice cream maker can make all sorts different formulas
    and brands on the same ice cream line they do not need a new plant or
    processing line.  Your local small town bakery makes rye, white, wheat
    and whole grain bread all in the same pans, in the same oven and with a
    few similar ingredients but they are very different breads, they might
    use similar bags to wrap them in or very different bags, they might be
    sold sliced or unsliced in large and small loaves.  

  • HJ

    Bob-Yes I am aware of the 2 star (Prism) and 4 star (Eagle Pack).  If you read both reviews they are fairly similar.  Are the raters aware both products are made by Eagle Pack?  Does Eagle Pack really have a separate processing plant to make a very similar product or are they the same thing in different packages? One being marked at consumers in Petsmart and one for consumers who buy animal feeds in feed stores?  Look at the ingredients.  Hmmmmmm

  • Bob K

    HJ – Prism is rated 2 stars and eagle pack is 4 stars on this website, you can read the details for yourself.  I am not sure what you read but you might want to look again.   They may be made by the same company with different formulas using similar ingredients.

  • HJ

    I have been told by a feed store manager that Prism Dog Food is the same product as Eagle Pack but is marketed to feed stores and therefore cheaper to buy.  The ingredient lists appear to be very similar and in most cases exactly the same.  Prism is manufactered by Eagle Pack….are they the same product in different bags?

  • Joe

    I have a German Wirehaired Pointer/Wiem mix who has only been on Eagle Pack Power and Adult (Blue Bag) for all of his 12.5 years. This dog is in excellent health and is still hunting this season. I would recommend and continue to feed Eagle Pack.

  • Michelle

    Angie, I don’t know how else to explain it to you. NO manufacturer would add actual BLACK MOLD to their pet food. It would kill pets and they would be sued. So you should stop running all over the internet posting your “warnings” because they are unfounded. And you really don’t understand the process. Luckily their are people that do understand, or we wouldn’t have Penicillin, which is derived from BREAD MOLD. And when you get a dose of Penicillin, YOU ARE NOT RECEIVING ANY ACTUAL MOLD. Just as the Aspergillus niger in pet food does not contain mold. Get a grip, you are scaring people, for no reason. FYI you are more likely to find mold in dog foods that contain cheap cereal grains, that are not stored properly. Another good reason to go grain free…. :)

  • Bob K

    Angie – If the food concerns you – then by all means don’t buy it and vote with your wallet to another product. There are many 4 and 5 star kibbles reviewed on this website.

    How was your cat diagnosed for chicken and beef allergies? Most people guess but do not really properly diagnose allergies in pets, they guess, try supplements, switch foods, and try all sorts of things to relieve the symptoms without eliminating the allergen source.

    Psst. Don’t believe everything you read on the internet unless you really understand what you are looking for and how to evaluate the information google or any website provides. Most medicines when misused are dangerous.

    I suspect when you Google “Chocolate” the results never says its dangerous for dogs on the first few pages of search results unless you specifically google, “Chocolate for dogs”. Very different results.

  • Angie

    If you google “Aspergillus niger” it comes up and says – black mold. They may extract whatever from it but it being on the label made me leery enough to not buy this brand. I understand that we all take in mold every day. From an outside pollen source to indoor food molds. I recently bought a house that was accused of having a mold problem. While a small amount of unharmful mold was present, it was not black mold. Therefore from doing research on mold for home buying purposes, I won’t trust a dog food that feels it necessary to put it on their label. We may all ingest it day in and day out but would we willingly ingest it if we had written in front of us in black and white? I wouldn’t, therefore I wouldnt knowingly feed it to my furry family.

    While most people do not read labels on dog food and just buy whatever they can afford,I am OCD about it. I also have a cat that’s allergic to chicken and beef! So I did an extensive amount of research on pet food and what to look for in ingredients. I just thought I would put it out there what the meaning of the word the ingredients label has written out is. When you goggle it it says black mold… If it truly isn’t black mold but some enzyme from it, maybe they should change it to Aspergillus niger enzymes. Even then I wouldn’t feel comfortable feeding it to my pet.

  • Michelle

    Angie, Aspergillus niger is a microbe. No manufacturer would purposely add actual black mold to their food. Here’s how the process works- Most enzymes currently available are blends of enzymes derived from papaya, pineapple, kiwi, figs, or the microbes Aspergillus orzyae or Aspergillus niger. There is no mold or fungus in the finished products. The enzymes are extracted and rigorously purified from the parent organism. The process of getting enzymes from microbes is outlined as follows.

    The fungal organisms are grown in trays or large tanks on a bed of something to culture the organisms. This may be “miso,” which is comprised of a mixture of cereal grains, or something else. The fungal organisms secrete enzymes into the mixture to break down the material, or digest it, as a way to get its nutrition. After some time, the cultured mixture is collected. Then, the fungal organisms and base culture are separated from the enzymes. There may be up to 12 different purification steps involving a variety of methods: alcohol precipitation of the enzyme proteins, centrifugation, gel filtration, and molecular sieving. The end results is a very pure mixtures of enzymes without any of the parent source material. Enzymes go through rigorous quality control testing on each lot of enzymes.

    While many digestive enzymes are derived from a fungal or bacteria organism, the final enzyme product does not contain fungus, mold, or bacteria in the final product. An analogy is penicillin. Just as penicillin is derived from bread mold, you are not getting a dose of mold when you get penicillin.

    Since enzymes are proteins, it is possible that a particular individual may be sensitive (not tolerate) a particular enzyme proteins. This is very very rare though. Enzymes are a natural and constant part of our healthy digestive tract. Our intestinal tract is swimming in enzymes all the time from birth to death anyway. :)

  • Julie

    To Angie: The aspergillus in pet food is there to provide enzymes. It is not a harmful ingredient and not black mold.

  • Angie

    Secondly, when comparing the dog foods I found – Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult 60+Lbs Dry Dog Food – to have the exact same ingredients plus some in the vitamins / supplements area and does not include black mold. My mastiff seems to be enjoying it and is no longer inhaling her food but making it last longer and there is no longer a fowl smell in her stool (thank the heavens! Even outside she could make someone run!). I love my dog like my child and want only the best, I’m just trying to help fellow mastiff / giant breed owners do the same.

  • Angie

    Read the ingredient label on the regular Eagle Pack Dog food on the Large and Giant Breed Formaula. You will notice that the very last ingredient is Aspergillus niger, translation – black mold. I just did an extensive amount of research for a good healthy dog food for my English mastiff and also have done an extensive amount of research on mold… I recognized this right away and also double checked my concern by looking up the scientific name again. Honestly, how bad is your black mold problem if you are having to include it on your ingredients label?! Understandably, we all consume or breathe mold each day, but there is a HUGE difference between the mold from outside spores or what grows on your food to what manifests into black mold. I won’t feed it to my dog, so I’m trying to spread the word about it to other dog owners. Although stated that most ingredients that far down on the label don’t matter much, I feel better knowing I’m not feeding my dog any ounce of black mold.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    OK, Meagan… I’m on it. I’ll get to this just as soon as I can. Thanks for the tip.

  • Meagan

    I believe they change formula names.
    http://www.eaglepack.com/product-dog.aspx

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Richard… It looks like Eagle Pack canned dog food might be new. So, I’ve added this line to my To Do list. Thanks for the tip.

  • Richard J breard

    Hi Mike;
    Iwas looking for a rating for the Eagle Pack canned chicken dog food but did not see one. Is It something new?

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Shannon… Are you sure you’re looking at the Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult I used as my example for the product line? I just checked the company’s website and found the ingredients to be identical.

  • Shannon

    Mike-I was looking at your review and on the Eagle Pack webiste and notice that the ingredients are different now…and that ground yellow corn is listed as the second/third ingredient in all of their formulas. Would this change the rating? As a consumer who tries to avoid foods with corn in them, I am surprised to see this still rated so high when the ingredient is so high on the list.

  • Meagan

    Mike-I know you are really busy but I was wondering, have they changed the names on the formulas? Here is what I see on the website. Thanks
    http://www.eaglepack.com/product-dog.aspx

  • Meagan in Iowa

    Laurie-Oh man that is allot of food lol. I couldn’t imagine having to buy some that often. Some day maybe! :)

  • ed

    Eagle is good food, gotta luv that pork!!!!

  • laurie

    by the way – they each eat 8 cups a day and i go through a bag of dog food about every 7-8 days.

  • laurie

    i have fed eagle pack large breed puppy and adult dry food to my two english mastiff’s their entire lives. they enjoy it and have not had any health issues. hula is almost four and elvis is almost three. nice coats, white, clean teeth, energetic and not overweight. i highly recommend it for english mastiff’s.

  • pam

    I used Eagle Pack Holistic for my standard poodle and he did not do very well because of the beet pulp. It is especially harmful to poodles. I have little respect for this company that would put questionable ingredients in their foods under the illusion it is quality.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Jayce… Unfortunately, I cannot provide customized product comparisons. Please see our reviews and our FAQ page for help. And be sure to check back later to see if you get a reply from another reader.

  • Jayce

    Hi Mike,

    Im considering between eagle pro and oven baked tradition for my dog. Which is better?

  • Ted

    I moved and Eagle pack was not available to me. I use a couple of different brand I used Blue Buffalo, ProPlan and Iams. Two I could get for free. I moved again and I started back on Eagle Pack. In my opinion it is the best food for the money. Good coat, energy and stool.

  • Mae

    I have been feeding my dog with Eagle Pack fish formula. Every since the company has been sold to Berwind Corp, it has been renamed Eagle Pro in Singapore. Have been purchasing the Eagle Pro Holistic Salmon but realised that thei recent pack I purchased 2 months ago contains maggots. I returned the pack, and the petshop owner confirmed that it was manufactured recently in March 2010.

    Went to another petshop today wanting to give Eagle Pro another chance but just confirmed with the owner that his supplies of Eagle Pro salmon formula too, contained worms.

    Needless to say, I have switched to another brand.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Fabian… Like many other pet food companies, Eagle Pack may go under a different name in your country (and possibly a different formula, too). Since there are so many labeling standards used in different countries, we do not currently review or rate products sold outside North America. Sorry I can’t be more help.

  • Fabian

    Hi Mike,

    I’m from Singapore and I’m writing in as a concerned dog owner (7 actually) that Eagle Pack has been renamed as Eagle Pro. Currently I’m using the Original Adult Formula when it was Eagle Pack and now as Eagle Pro. Is there any changes in the ingredients that I should take note of?
    Thanks!!

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Howard… Corn germ meal is a meal product made from ground corn germ after much of the oil has been removed. Corn germ meal is a protein-rich by-product left over after milling corn meal, hominy grits and other corn products.

    Corn meal (on the other hand) is a coarsely ground flour made from whole dried kernel. Hope this helps.

  • Howard

    Dear Mike,

    I would like to know is Corn Germ Meal (Dry Milled) consider a quality ingredient? whats the difference between this and Ground Yellow Corn?

    What I am guessing is that the word “meal” in the Corn Germ Meal (Dry Milled) actually refers to the after product of corn processing, Is it correct?

    Thank you very much.

    Regards,
    Howard

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Lynne… Here in the U.S., Eagle Pack markets Holistic Select Dog Food. You can find it listed under that name in my Brands list.

    However, I do not see any product by the name of Duck and Oatmeal.

  • Lynne Aitken

    interested to know your thoughts on Eaglepack Holistic Duck and Oatmeal. I feed a small amount incorporated with lots of raw meat and chicken on bone and some barf product

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com Mike Sagman

    Hi Jamie… I’m not sure if you have the name right or not. Eagle Pack makes Eagle Pack Natural Formula with Oatmeal that’s made with lamb. That one is included (and rated with) this review.

    However, Eagle Pack owns another brand called Holistic Select Dog Food (which I’ve already reviewed elsewhere on this website). They make Holistic Select Radiant Adult Health Lamb Meal Recipe.

    If you know of something different that you’re looking for, please let me know… and provide the name as precisely as you can. I’ll be sure to check it out for you. Hope this is what you were looking for.

  • Jamie

    What is the rating for Eagle Natual Holistic Lamb?