Nature’s Variety Instinct (Dry)

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Rating: ★★★★★

Nature’s Variety Instinct Dog Food receives the Advisor’s top rating of 5 stars.

The Nature’s Variety Instinct product line includes five dry dog foods, each claimed to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages.

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

  • Nature’s Variety Instinct Rabbit Meal
  • Nature’s Variety Instinct Salmon Meal
  • Nature’s Variety Instinct Chicken Meal
  • Nature’s Variety Instinct Beef Meal and Lamb Meal
  • Nature’s Variety Instinct Duck Meal and Turkey Meal

Nature’s Variety Instinct Duck Meal and Turkey Meal was selected to represent the other products in the line for this review.

Nature's Variety Instinct Duck Meal and Turkey Meal

Dry Dog Food

Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content

Protein = 39% | Fat = 24% | Carbs = 29%

Ingredients: Duck meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, tapioca, canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid), tomato pomace, pumpkinseeds, herring meal, sun-cured alfalfa meal, montmorillonite clay, natural flavor, vitamins (choline chloride, vitamin E supplement, ascorbic acid, biotin, niacin supplement, vitamin A acetate, d-calcium pantothenate, riboflavin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, vitamin B12 supplement, carotene, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid), potassium chloride, minerals (zinc proteinate, iron proteinate, manganese proteinate, copper proteinate, sodium selenite, ethylenediamine dihydriodide), salt, dried kelp, peas, cranberries, blueberries, inulin, rosemary extract, yeast culture (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, freeze dried turkey, freeze dried turkey liver, freeze dried turkey heart, freeze dried ground turkey bone

Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 3.9%

Red items when present indicate controversial ingredients

Estimated Nutrient Content
MethodProteinFatCarbs
Guaranteed Analysis35%22%NA
Dry Matter Basis39%24%29%
Calorie Weighted Basis31%47%23%

The first two ingredients in this dog food include duck meal and turkey meal. Duck meal and turkey meal are both considered meat concentrates and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh poultry.

The third ingredient includes salmon meal, 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

We are pleased to note that, unlike many fish meals, this particular item appears2 to be ethoxyquin-free.

The fourth ingredient is tapioca, a gluten-free, starchy carbohydrate extract made from the root of the cassava plant.

The fifth ingredient is canola oil. Many applaud canola for its favorable omega-3 content while a vocal minority condemn it as an unhealthy fat.

Much of the objection regarding canola oil appears to be related to the use of genetically modified rapeseed as its source material.

Yet others find the negative stories about canola oil more the stuff of urban legend than actual science.3

In any case, plant-based oils like canola are less biologically available to a dog than fish oil as a source of quality omega-3 fats.

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

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

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

The seventh ingredient is pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and, more importantly, linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fat.

The eighth ingredient is herring meal, yet another high protein meat concentrate.

The ninth ingredient is alfalfa meal. Although alfalfa meal is high in plant protein (about 18%) and fiber (25%), this hay-family item is more commonly associated with horse feeds.

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 four notable exceptions

First we find montmorillonite clay, a naturally occurring compound rich in many trace minerals. Montmorillonite has been approved for use in USDA Organic Certified products.

Reported benefits include the binding of certain mold-based toxins and even controlling diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Next, we note the inclusion of inulin, a starch-like compound made up of repeating units of carbohydrates and typically sourced from chicory root.

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

In addition, we find dried fermentation products in this recipe. Fermentation products are typically added to provide enzymes to aid the animal 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.

Nature’s Variety Instinct Dog Food
The Bottom Line

Judging by its ingredients alone, Nature’s Variety Instinct Dog Food looks like an above 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 39%, a fat level of 24% and estimated carbohydrates of about 29%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 41% and a mean fat level of 24%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 28% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.

Above-average protein. Above-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Free of any plant-based protein boosters, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a significant amount of meat.

Bottom line?

Nature’s Variety Instinct Dog Food is a grain free kibble using a significant amount of various named meat and fish meals as its main sources of animal protein, thus earning the brand 5 stars.

Enthusiastically 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

11/03/2009 Original review
05/12/2010 Review updated
09/05/2010 Review updated (new recipe)
01/26/2011 Review updated (added Beef Recipe)
03/21/2011 Review updated (added Salmon Recipe
11/23/2012 Last Update

  1. Association of American Feed Control Officials
  2. Nature’s Variety FAQ, 5/12/2010
  3. Mikkelson, B and DP, Oil of Ole, Urban Legends Reference Pages (2005)
  • PitFoster

    I adopted two dogs almost two years ago after fostering both of them for several months. When I was fostering them, I was given Blue Buffalo from the rescue to feed them. After I adopted them, I did some research and decided to switch them to NV Instinct. They love the variety and they have done very well on it. I continue to foster dogs from another rescue out of NYC now. The dogs come from the very high kill Animal Care and Control in NYC. As I never have a clue what they were eating prior to them coming in to my care, there is really no way to slowly transition them. However, I have noticed that with all of them, there has been little to no problems switching them right over to NV Instinct. I am guessing that is due to the quality of the food and maybe a bit of luck. ;) In any case, I always recommend that my adopters continue with the product if they can. Based on the research, aside from a raw diet, it is one of the best pet food products on the market. It is a bit pricey but well worth the confidence that I have gained in using it.

  • Sergio E. Rotundo

    First of all congratulations for this website, it’s well maintained and very informative. Secondly, I’d like to leave my opinion about Nature Variety’s Instinct dry foods. I have a 90 LBS Black Lab, who very lean and healthy (thank God). I have been feeding him NV’s Instinct for one year now. I have fed him all variety’s with the exception of the limited Ingredient versions. Thor absolutely LOVES their entire line of dry food. He has adapted very well to the food, with the exception of Chicken Meal formula, which his stomach hasn’t really agreed very well with it (both times I tried feeding him the Chicken Meal Formula he pooped a very dark, smelly and mushy poop, that’s not his usual). However, all other formulas, including: Beef & Lamb Meal, Duck & Turkey, Salmon Meal and Rabbit Meal. I have read that some people have noticed that their dogs have developed the eye secretion. Thor sometimes shows signs of that as well, but is not bad. (When I fed him Orijen he also showed that “side effect”). Overall however, he is very healthy, playful, and actually really enjoys their dry food. He particularly likes the Rabbit and the Salmon Meal formulas. I have read horror stories about the Rabbit formulas coming from China, and people finding plastic or bones in their kibbles. To be honest I opened a 13.2 LBS bad of the Rabbit Meal formula and it looks just fine, no foreign objects at all, and it smells normal too. Thor has been eating the Rabbit meal formula quite often in the last one year and I have never seen anything unusual with any of their dry food. Maybe I got lucky or maybe those people who found foreign objects in their food got really unlucky, either way, if Thor is any indication, their food is of excellent quality. Sorry if this post is too big, but I just wanted to share my experience with this food.

  • Marie

    I think it’s more like there aren’t many (if any) rabbit ‘farms’ in the United States – at least, not enough for their production. I mean, if the rabbits are shipped LIVE to France and then processed, then I’d have less of a problem with that but I don’t know for sure.

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

    Hi guys,

    I contacted them as well and as of 10/15/2012, this was their response to my question as to the source of the rabbit in their products:

    “The rabbit protein we use in our raw diet is from China. The rabbit in our canned is sourced from Italy and China, while the rabbit in our kibble is from France. We employ a U.S. educated food scientist in China to oversee our rabbit sourcing. All rabbit protein is tested before shipment from China and again after it arrives in the U.S. for processing into our raw diet. We are very confident in how we handle our sourcing from China. We source most of our ingredients from the U.S. and turn to other locations only as needed. We are very stringent on our sourcing and have good relationships built with our vendors for quality ingredients.”

  • beaglemom

    Oh right, France, I mixed them up. So they said ALL rabbit comes from china? What a convoluted path it takes before it gets here. Wish they’d just get it from within the US so people could stop worrying about it…

  • Marie

    I interviewed with NV a few months ago. During the interview process, it was mentioned that the rabbit comes from China, but they are butchered and processed in France.

  • beaglemom

    Hi Tracey, last someone contacted the company (late last year) only the raw and canned rabbit was sourced from china. The kibble rabbit is from italy. The email is a handful of posts down if you’re interested. Always good to contact the company when in doubt and avoid anything you’re not comfortable feeding !

  • http://www.facebook.com/tracey.atkinsonbagatta Tracey Atkinson-Bagatta

    Be aware- skip the RABBIT variey – they get the rabbit from China.

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  • http://www.facebook.com/janicegoodman Janice Goodman

    Flea dermatitis. Have had that problem too with both dogs and cats. Talked to my vet and she says to change/alternate the brand if flea treatment as the fleas can become immune yo using one brand all the time. Seems to have helped.

  • Alexandra

    Hi Lisa,

    Could I ask what your vets reasons are?

    I think BB can be over priced for a potato heavy kibble.

    A better kibble that costs a little less would be Earthborn Holistic. You could try the plains feast. I have fed that before and was really pleased with it.

    Hope your dogs are feeling better.

  • http://www.facebook.com/lisa.patchin Lisa Patchin

    It has been months… I am going to stop using the NV. The Vet thinks this is not a good food for her.

  • Alexandra

    How much time between the start of the BB from the cheap foods? They could be detoxing as their bodies heal from the better food.

  • http://www.facebook.com/lisa.patchin Lisa Patchin

    NV, grain free, chicken. Before that BB grain free chicken. before that cheap foods alpo, and Kibbles and bits. She has always been a hearty eater and never gotten sick before, has always eaten everything. I am at a loss. We are headed to the Vet, she has not eaten for 4 days now

  • Alexandra

    Hi Lisa,

    A few questions: which formula are you feeding? Depending on the protein it could be a factor.

    The other would be what have you been feeding before? Which BB? Sometimes a change, especially if it s sudden is enough to upset a dogs digestive tract.

    If you were feeding a grain inclusive food before you went grain free that can also cause upset.

    Over feeding could also be a reason. As dogs eat much less on a grain free food.

  • http://www.facebook.com/lisa.patchin Lisa Patchin

    Started using Natures Variety grain free about 3 weeks ago. One of my dogs has seizures and this was the vets recommendation. First tried Blue buffalo then went to NV for the higher protein content. One dog is fine, loves it, Two others have been having severe diarrhea, will not eat at all, stopped NV, one is getting better. Can some dogs not handle the Protein??? I’m going to go back to BB for the two dogs for now, they liked it and were fine.

  • Miss Magz

    I have a pug I have been making her food for three years. She as well has food and environment allergies. I started her on local honey, within 3 months I stopped giving her prescription meds which ran me about $45. every two weeks. The local honey has done well and when the season is at the worse a Benadryl is the most I have to give her. I was every excited to read your comments on this food. Can you tell me you give the salmon and coconut oils. I give fish oil.
    Thank you
    Miss Magz

  • Shawna

    I agree with Sandy — not a lot of raw chuncks in it..
    When I noticed that there is not any more protein in the raw boost than in the instinct kibble, I realized it is nothing more than marketing.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    It’s Instinct kibble with a little bit of Instinct freeze dried mixed together in the same bag. Not enough freeze dried pieces though. I could give a feeding with 1/3 cup and there would only be 2 or 3 pieces of freeze dried in the bowl.

  • Stephen

    Hi Mike,
    Nature’s Variety has a new product line called Raw Boost, could you share your review with us? Thanks!
    http://www.naturesvariety.com/Instinct/RawBoost/dog/duck

  • Hound Dog Mom

    The rabbit in the dry food isn’t sourced from China, it’s sourced from France. The rabbit used in the raw and canned is sourced from China.

  • broadhrc

    Yes, I just heard the same thing last month, as I noticed they took the rabbit off the shelf at the pet store we go to. So looks we will be switching food. It’s a shame as my dogs really liked that food.

  • Dave’s Hounds

    I have recently tried the rabbit and I am on 3-4th bag and my dogs seem to be doing very well – I only feed kibble in AM and I add supplements and fresh protein

  • Tyson4

    Hair missing

  • Tyson4

    My GSD has hair missing on back end gets better then back again any ideas

  • Tyson4

    I have a GSD and he has a clump of hair missing on back end. Seems to get better than bad again any ideas

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Agreed! My dogs get kefir every day. I use it in my cereal as well, great stuff.

  • drizzit76

    FYI if you add Kefir into their diet it does wonders.

  • Pitt-bull1977

    We discovered this brand several years back. We have a geriatric Lab, six Pit bulls (three of which are fosters), a Brussells Griffon which is our only female (she is the “big dog” and runs the pack). Anyway, we have that this brand fits the needs of all our dogs and offers variety as they would consume in nature. Tapioca is used rather than peas and potatos, another bonus. Now I do want to touch on the rabbit meal sourced from China. I have spoken with the company and some other reputable sources such as US Customs. The bottom line is that Nature’s Variety has US citizen employees on site in China to monitor the facility and safety, the supplies are all operated and owned by Nature’s Variety (they are not buying from wholesalers out of China or even brokers but their own facility) and all of their shipments have cleared Customs with no problems meeting all Federal regulations for this type of product which are actually stricter than you might think, though still not as strict as they should or could be.
    I trust Nature’s Variety with my beloved animals and recommend that all our fosters remain on their products once adopted. Ranging from a 17 year old Lab with replaced hips and knees to a 9 month old Pit bull, to a 6 year old Brussells Griffon, the verdict is that this food simply works the best for everyone. It is also much more readily available to us than other brands of this quality level here in rural Pennsylvania…we consider that a major bonus.

  • Brenda C

    you can mix the canned and kibble at one meal. My preference is feed all raw in a meal an not mix it with kibble since they are digested at different rates. Raw digest faster. I feed the kibble at night with the premise that she will go longer between dinner and breakfast than breakfast to dinner.

  • brenda c

    we tried the raw boost kibble, she liked it but there was not a very high ratio of raw boost bits to regular kibble. Not worth the higher cost for me. She gets the NV raw for am and the instict kibble for pm. So I think she gets enough raw for the day.

  • Pattyvaughn

    It helped mine when I made the Yeast Starvation Diet with DinOvite and SuperOmega Fish Oil. I’ve never fed it mixed with kibble, though.

  • Sarah

    I am interested in trying Dinovite on my malti-poo who is scratching constantly. Did the Dinovite help with that problem?

  • Jc

    I feed my min pin NV I raw kibble, can, dry turkey@duck, dry LI turkey or lamb. I do not give her any chicken or rice. Before I switch to NV BRAND she had bad allergies extreamly dry skin and many other problems. Now her allergies are much better and only seem to show up if it is extreamly dry day after playing in the park( I live in Cal) her skin is great the rest of her problems are gone. If her stools are real loose for 2 days or more I give her ( fiber) pumpkin or squash to bind. 2 times a week I give her a little extra virgin coconut oil so she has no problem passing her stools due to dryness. EVC also has other great benifits, she also gets vegetarian probiotics @ enzymes to help with the digestion of the food in her gut. I have just started to make jerky because of all the problems and recalls with treats. Sounds like a lot but its not and all of the things I mentioned I also eat

  • Guest

    I have an epi shepherd as well he stopped eating his kibble innova prime so I switched to grandma lucys but he keeps loosing weight even so he gets b12 shots and pills . Poop is fine but a lot of it …increased enzymes …no luck ….I started him on the nature raw and lucys 50 /50 right now ….how much raw do you feed to maintain ? My boy is at 93 lbs trying to get him back to 100. I cant afford 100% raw so I plan to feed the raw for breakfast and introduce acana grasslands for dinner . Any help and thoughts be great .

  • Damen

    They also have buy 12 get 1 free program!

  • terriermom

    My terriers seem to like this food. However, I have read where ascorbic acid is damaging to the liver and kidneys of dogs. Anyone have insight into this possible issue?

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

    Hi Jan!

    That’s awesome about your son! You must be very proud! Hey, in my book, moms don’t need a reason to brag abut their kids. ; )

    I’m actually just outside of Chicago. I looked back at my post that mentioned Charleston and recalled checking the area code on “Sharon Ours” post regarding a pair of GSDs she knew of that were in need of a homes, in what I figured out must’ve been the Charleston area. Now you’ve got me thinking abut those two pups again. : )

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    Betsy,  I’m not sure which ingredient(s) in NV Instinct would cause tearing, but my dogs have never done well with their Instinct kibble.  And if I remember correctly, tearing was one of the issues they had with it.  They were fine with the Prairie, the raw (reg. and freeze dried) and the all the canned food….so I’m not sure!  My cat does eat, and loves, the Instinct kibble but has never liked the Instinct canned food!  Go figure…:)

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    Betsy, do you live in/ or near Charleston?  My husband is from there (South Charleston, actually), we got married there.  My husband went to Univ. of Charleston (used to be Morris Harvey College) and so did my son.  He just graduated and he was recruited/played soccer for them all 4 years.  They were nationally ranked!  (Thanks for giving me a chance to brag lol!)  Now, I’m done and sorry, Dr. Mike S.  anymore conversations will be on the forum!

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

    So, my Cavalier has been off of the NVI rabbit formula for almost a week (she just started a bag of Canine Caviar Wilderness Grain Free) and already the weepy eyes have stopped.  

    Anyone else have weepy eyes on NVI?  What do you think might be the ingredient/s in Instinct that causes that?

    Here are the ingredients for the NVI Instinct:  Rabbit Meal, Salmon Meal, Tapioca, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Tomato Pomace, Pumpkinseeds, Sun-Cured Alfalfa Meal, Montmorillonite Clay, Natural Pork Flavor, Vitamins (Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Biotin, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Carotene, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Salt, Dried Kelp, Peas, Cranberries, Blueberries, Inulin, Rosemary Extract, Yeast Culture (Saccharomyces Cerevisiae), Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Extract, Freeze Dried Rabbit, Freeze Dried Pork Liver, Freeze Dried Pork Heart, Freeze Dried Ground Rabbit Bone. 

    Here are the ingredients for the Canine Caviar:  Venison Meal, Split Peas, Lamb Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Sun Cured Alfalfa, Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Culture, Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Culture, Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Culture, Sun-Cured Kelp, FOS (prebiotic), Calcium Proteinate, Sodium Chloride, Lecithin, Choline Chloride, Parsley, Fenugreek, Peppermint,Taurine, Selenium, Whole Clove Garlic, Vitamin E, Zinc Proteinate, Vitamin C, Papaya,Rose Hips, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin, Beta-Carotene, Manganese Proteinate,Vitamin D3, Biotin, Vitamin A, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12, Potassium Proteinate, Folic Acid

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

    Is your friend in the general vicinity of Charleston, WV?

  • GSDlover

    Sharon,
    I suggest you contact Mid-Atlantic German Shepherd Rescue (do a Google search for their website).  They usually only have room for dogs in kill-shelters, but they will post photos and descriptions of dogs still in the home and up for adoption.  They screen adopters carefully before placing the dogs.

  • Pattyvaughn

    I guess I’m cheap.  I used to use river rocks to slow down my gulper.  He did eventually learn to slow himself down.  Now I use my river rocks to slow down a sloppy horse.

  • Dave’s Hounds

     I also use the slow feeder for my hounds (got them at gun dog supply) and they made a world of difference. I add water to all meals and of course probiotics, enzymes and other supplements. The use to inhale their food and have gas etc. No more problems.

  • Pattyvaughn

    Any time your dog has an upset like this, especially when antibiotics are prescribed, use probiotics for a while afterward.  Digestive enzymes are also very helpful to inflamed intestines.

  • Johnanger1225

    I also am feeding natural balance and want to switch. My 4 month old husky/shepherd has bloody diarrhea and is on antibiotics. After reading the reviews it seems like a common side effect.

  • GourmetMissy

    I got the “slow down” bowls from drfostersmith.com they have a bridge in the middle. I crush up treats in my hand witch makes them chew.

  • Blucow

    Thank you everyone for your comments and suggestions. I transitioned her food over 3 days. This was the same amount of time when I moved her from Science Diet to Wellness Core and she had no issues with that. I think I’ll buy a small bag of Wellness, add water in her kibble, feed her less as NV has higher and watch how that goes :)  

  • Michele

     Sounds like she’s full of gas and not processing the new food.  If you switched without transitioning (giving her a small amount of the new food in the old food for a few days, then adding another small amount) then you may have upset her digestive system.  Also, there is a huge difference in the two foods.  Core has more fiber, for one thing. Be careful here.  If you “just now” switched her and did it all at once, you might want to go backwards and do the gradual transition, even if that means buying a small bag of the Core.  Good luck!

  • Michele

     It is indeed MUCH better for them.  They need water AS THEY EAT, not in a bowl sitting beside their dry kibble.  Since dogs aren’t genetically engineered to process dry food, the kidneys suffer without the addition of a lot of moisture.  Thank you Pattyvaughn for mentioning this.

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

    Hi Andrew,

    I did see some of those “hairy” fibrous pieces in our kibble tonight also. I’m OK with that, but I’ll be honest, those pictures attached to the below posted link made me think I’d pack up and send back what I recently bought without opening it.

    Don’t think for a second that you’re being neurotic about it. It’s called being conscientious about what you’re feeding your pets. You have to be confident in what you’re feeding and you have every right to move on to another food if that’s what your gut instinct tells you.

  • Pattyvaughn

    If it isn’t very big or your dog extremely small, it won’t hurt a thing.

  • Andrew Berman

    I picked out a couple random kibble and there were whole seed shells in them and I found some with hair-like things coming out of them (maybe the alfalfa?).  The food smells fine and he really loves it, so maybe I’m just being too neurotic about it.

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com/ Mike Sagman

    You might like to check out an anti-gulp dog bowl like these available from Wag.com

    http://www.wag.com/html/sg/anti-gulp-dog-bowls.html

    Hope this helps.

  • T Woodisgood

    My little bully also doesn’t chew – she inhales her food in less than a minute. I feed her twice a day – morning is a mix of dry and can food – night time is a mix of 2 different dry foods – strict measurements – overweight dogs are not healthy or active ones! Resting before AND after eating is important – no playing allowed! But I do have an issue in training – she does NOT chew at all – and giving her treats is a problem that I’m trying to cope with. Could use some suggestions on this please!

  • T Woodisgood

    I have an English Bulldog under one years of age. Had to give her medication once a day that caused very loose stools. Tried giving her a qtr of a slice of Kraft American cheese every time I gave her the meds. It worked almost immediately. Hope it helps you!

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    You might want to check the calorie count between the Core you were feeding and the Instinct. You might need to feed less of the Instinct.  Feeding less might help with the stools.  Also Core has more fiber than Instinct. How long did you take to transition?  She might need more time eating a mixture of old and new food to adjust.  One of my dogs needed at least 2 months to adjust.  The others 3-4 weeks.  A tablespoon of pure pumpkin puree with feeds might also help to add fiber or if you prefer a little psyllium (metamucil). Most dogs don’t chew.  They might crush the kibble a time or two, that’s it. You can put a pacer ball or a soup can or two into a large feeding bowl to slow her down or even put the kibble into a treat ball like the IQ Ball so she has to work to get it out. None of my 3 dogs chew. They’re done eating in 1 minute and 30 seconds or less.

  • Pattyvaughn

    Many, many dogs don’t chew.  If you want to slow down her eating add water to her kibble.  It’s better for them that way anyway.

  • Blucow

    I recently switched my dog (a 5 year old Corgi cross – she’s about the size of a beagle) from Wellness Core to NV Instinct. Now her stools are really soft, sometimes mushy even. Smells worse too. But what I’m worried about is that the size of the kibble is too small. She seems to be swallowing and her tummy looks a little larger – all the air maybe? Anyone knows if it’s a bad thing she’s not chewing?

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

    Hi Dave,

    I was…, so I emailed them and this is the response I received on 10/15/2012, (which, if I remember correctly was a dupe of the email Sandy received from them in 2011):

    The rabbit protein we use in our raw diet is from China. The rabbit in our canned is sourced from Italy and China, while the rabbit in our kibble is from France. We employ a U.S. educated food scientist in China to oversee our rabbit sourcing. All rabbit protein is tested before shipment from China and again after it arrives in the U.S. for processing into our raw diet. We are very confident in how we handle our sourcing from China. We source most of our ingredients from the U.S. and turn to other locations only as needed. We are very stringent on our sourcing and have good relationships built with our vendors for quality ingredients.

    Thanks for supporting our products!

    Sincerely,
    Shannon

    Consumer Relations
    Nature’s Variety
    1-888-519-7387
    http://www.naturesvariety.com

  • Pattyvaughn

    Last I heard the Chinese rabbit was in the raw.  It’s the only reason I haven’t tried it.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    The rabbit for kibble is sourced from France – per an email from 07/2011.  But you know how things can change…

  • Melissaandcrew

    Dave-

    The Chinese rabbit is not used in the kibble-its either the canned or raw-can’t remember right now.

  • Dave’s Hounds

     Betsy don’t you worry about the rabbit from China

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

    I just opened a bag of NVI Rabbit this evening and it was completely fine. It looked fine, smelled fine and the dogs loved it. It seems as though if there were truly a problem, we’d have heard more about it recently. The original claim (which appears to have merit) is now over two years old.

  • Andrew Berman

    I actually just bought my dog the rabbit and just saw this link.  I looked at some kibble and sure enough I found the same sharp pieces.  I guess they could be bone or shell, but I think I’m going to return the product.  Reading this article that they found plastic in the food doesn’t give me a good feeling.  On to the next brand…..

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi Jalane –

    I agree with Betsy, when you first transition him give him some plain canned pumpkin and a probiotic/enzyme supplement. Once his digestion gets stabilized and the diarrhea has cleared up you can start adding toppers (canned foods, raw meat, etc.) and eventually start rotating. Since he isn’t used to rotating you initially should slowly transition. Once his digestion system becomes accustomed to switching foods, you should be able to switch brand to brand with no transition. When I fed my oldest dog kibble I would get a new brand with a new protein source at the send of each bag (about every three weeks) all the while rotating canned toppers. All three of my dogs now eat raw and get something different at each meal. No digestive upset. :)

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

    Hi Jalane,

    We live and learn. : )

    Which Natural Balance are you using right now? Loose stool for a prolonged period of time isn’t normal. Try adding some plain, canned pumpkin to his food while you’re deciding what to switch him to and see if that helps. And, yes transitioning to a new food for your Luke may create some digestive upset, especially if he’s been eating the same food his whole life so far. Transition slowly, over a period of weeks, gradually increasing the amount of the new food and reducing the amount of the old food. You might try a grain free or even something more limited ingredient to start – Natures Variety Instinct or Brothers Complete Allergy would both be great choices.

    HDM will have some great suggestions for you. : )

  • Jalane

    Hound Dog Mom, I really appreciate your views and recommendations. I’m switching my 10 month old male boxer, Luke, to adult food, I feed Natural Balance but want to switch. You mention mixing and rotating their food. Doesn’t this cause their stomach to be upset and have diarrhea? 
    So can I give him kibble (which would you recommend) mixing with but rotating canned AND then raw meat. 
    He is such a picky eater, has horrible gas and a very loose stool to the point of diarrhea most of the time.
    My previous boxer was 10 when I lost her to cancer, I wasn’t aware of all of the preservatives in dog food when I raised her and I feel we paid the price and lost her to cancer. I want to do everything possible to give  Luke the best chance to live cancer free.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Reese –

    The more variety you can give your dog the better! My dogs eat a homemade raw diet and get something different at each meal. There’s no reason not to mix kibble, canned, raw, healthy leftovers, etc. Rotating between different brands of food is great too.

  • Reese

    Is there such thing as TOO much variety?? I have heard good and bad sides about giving your dog too much variety. Obviously there are the people who say “stick to one diet for your dog because it upsets their stomach.” Which I find hard to believe because my dog has been on NV dry and a variety of high quality canned foods her entire life. I am always searching for new and better things for her though. I recently  purchased a few books on dog nutrition and I read it is fine to give your dog leftover chicken or meat you have for dinner. I would never do this do to the fact we season our meat before we cook it and don’t want my dog eating the seasonings. But I did decide to buy some organic chicken from the store to feed to her. I boil the chicken in water and for breakfast and dinner I feed her NV kibble, (just recently I started adding Orijen kibble as well) Merrick canned food, Stella & Chewy’s freeze dried topper, and add a few pieces of chicken to top it off. Obviously I make sure the portions are correct. My boyfriend thinks I am little nuts when it comes to dog food but usually agrees with what we feed her. Recently though, he has started to question me about all the different variety we give her as well. My answer is always, “the variety is to ensure she is getting all the correct nutrients”… Which is what I have been reading. BUT, is it bad to give it to her all at the same meal time? Or should I give her a certain variety during the day and night time? For example, only give her kibble and wet during the day.. And switch to kibble, chicken, and freeze dried at night? Any help would be appreciated!

  • InkedMarie

    Wow, first time I’ve seen that link.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    I never heard about those issues. It was from 2010 though so I wouldn’t be too worried, I’m sure whatever was going on has been cleared up. I think if you read through the comments posted here you’ll see NV has pretty favorable reviews. When my dog ate kibble I fed NV quite often in his rotation and he loved it and did well on it. I frequently recommend it.

  • OceanSkye

    I was really interested in this food, but then I read this review: http://dogsintraining.wordpress.com/2011/02/10/natures-variety-kibble-issues/

    For those who have experience with this kibble: Is this review typical of the food, or is this an exception? (or could this be a Canadian manufacturing problem & not a States one, etc…?)
    Thnx,

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

    Hi Richard,

    Patty beat me to it! Here’s the link to the forum she referred to: http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/forums/topic/tapioca/

  • Pattyvaughn

    Go over to the forum and look under dog food ingredients.  There is a thread on tapioca there.  My thoughts are that some tapioca in the food is good as long as it’s not a tapioca based food, and NV isn’t.

  • Richard J Breard

    Hi Mike… I have just switched my Shih Tzu over to NV chicken but the second ingredient is tapioca and some say it is good and others say it is bad. I can’ get a straight answer. Please help.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi Michael –

    I think both Orijen and Nature’s Variety Instinct are wonderful foods. I haven’t fed dry food to my dogs in a few years (I feed raw now) but when I was last feeding dry I was rotating between Orijen, Nature’s Variety Instinct and Great Life. My dog did wonderful on all three. As for the difference in serving sizes, there’s no “standard” serving size each dog food company kind of makes up there own so it can vary greatly from brand to brand and also some brands contain more calories per cup than others (although if I recall correctly Orijen and NV have fairly similar calorie counts). Were the dogs itching on the R/D or the Orijen? Personally (if Orijen wasn’t causing the issue), I’d recommend rotating between Orijen and NV for variety. There’s no reason an overweight dog needs to be on a special weight loss food – just feed less of a quality food and exercise them more. Feed them the recommended serving for what they SHOULD weight (not what they do weigh) and if they aren’t losing weight on that reduce the serving size further. It’s also very very important that you get them exercising. Hope that helps, good luck!

  • Michael

    I have two weimaraners and one lab. Both weims are over weight so I had all three dogs on Orijen. The vet said to move to the Hills R/d diet but I know how low that is rated and I hate keeping the dogs on it. I recently went back to Orijen however one weim and the lab have terrible itching and chewing of their pads. We have tried the steriods , benedryl and even dinovite on them. The dinovite works well however I think that I need to move them back to a grain free diet because of the itching. So today I bought one more bag of the chicken and fish blue bag Orijen and was told about the Natures Variety instinct. Being grain free I thought I would try to switch them to this and see how they do. I am mixing in both until I get them off the Orijen. The salesman said to try the rabbit instinct. I have not seen this before and want to know what everyones thoughts are on it since I have no idea about it. I hate taking them off the Orijen but think the instinct is a good brand. Does anyone have any thoughts on this. Also I looked on the back of the bag and it said for a 51-100 lb dog(which is a pretty big range) you should feed about 1.5-2.5 cups. This seems like so little compared to the 3-4 I was giving of the Orijen( which was probably too much). Any Ideas or info from someone with experience with these foods is appreciated. I just want the itching to stop.

  • mdkroma

    Nothing is actually wrong with Acana’s new formula, except the price. When I calculated the proper serving size for my dog (around 900 calories), I realized it would cost $1.32 per day to feed her the Acana… and $1.35 to feed her the Orijen Six Fish, so I went with the latter. Also… if you’re concerned about Canola oil – it’s in the new Pacifica recipe, but not in the six fish.

  • LilyPup

    Hm… I somehow missed that Nature’s Domain includes Canola Oil. I guess that answers my question! Does anyone have thoughts on Canidae Grain Free formulas?

  • LilyPup

    Thank you for your comment :) I will be rotating every time I get a new bag. I like Orijen so I might include that too. I like to stay away from GMOs and it’s strange that only one of Nature’s Variety’s foods excludes canola oil. Bummer. At least the chicken formula is mostly if not fully GMO-free!

    Btw – What was wrong with Acana’s new formula? I was still planning on using their food.

    Oh – and what are your thoughts on Nature’s Domain? The ingredients seem good.

  • Pattyvaughn

    Adding a spoonful of pure pumpkin to their food helps transitions go easier.

  • mdkroma

    We rotate our 35lb staff mix every bag, and like to change up formulas and proteins. There is no perfect food, but there are a lot of great ones. You may want to consider Orijen as well – we were about to rotate her to Acana Pacifica when they changed the formula/raised the price, and realized that a proper serving of the higher-end Orijen Six Fish was only $.04 per day more, so we went to that. Then we went to Instinct Chicken and her next two bags will be Instinct Duck then Venison. All are great foods – transition her slowly in case the added richness disagrees with her, but once you’re at that higher protein level (Instinct Chicken is 42% protein, NB Fish Grain Free is 26%), the transition time may be fairly short. We also mix some wet food into her kibble just to add some moisture (our apartment gets very hot during the winter), and to continue to diversify her protein source.

  • LilyPup

    I have a 30lb American Eskimo (4 yrs old). I’m trying to upgrade her food. She’s currently eating Natural Balance Fish (grain free) and I would like to keep her on grain free food. Here’s the question: Should I switch her to Acana or to Nature’s Variety? And… should I rotate her food every few months or keep her on one flavor of kibble? (I live in a small apartment so there isn’t room to have two bags of food to rotate daily/weekly/monthly. I would have to rotate flavors once the bag is complete). Please let me know and give me any extra advice! Thanks!

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    Calcium/phosphorus is a particular issue for growing large/giant breeds, not the puggies.

  • Chrissy

    I do not know much about this topic..I apologize and probably should be looking more into this as you have mentioned here – I am new to switching brands and rotational feeding – can you explain this topic a bit better to me? Also, you are speaking on behalf of how this pertains to larger breeds, what about a smaller breed, pugs? I am trying to learn about everything – we have a lot of special needs in our home, so this may be helpful for me to learn – one has the most severe orthopedic needs, one is a senior, one was in a puppymill for a long time and abused, etc. This would be very helpful to learn about. Thank you for bringing this topic up as we feed NVI to our pugs – we feed NVI (rabbit, salmon and raw), Fromm Four Star Nutritionals, Innova Prime, Petcurean NOW, Stella&Chewy(raw&freeze dried raw), Hound and Gatos canned foods (and one is on vet weight management diet – her own special plan – she comes into our home and works with our little girl-once she loses her weight she will go back to normal diet). We rotational feed so these are a few of the brands we use every so often. Thanks! Chrissy <3

  • Chrissy

    Hello tracy,
    I am not sure what would cause that at all – I am not an expert on foods – however, I do have pugs and they each have their own unique issues. We have been having to feed them all separate foods at one time. Now, at least two are on the same food. Our little girl we adopted has the most severe orthopedic issues, so for now she is on weight management (she is no overweight, but all on her case want her to lose 2 pounds to help her joints and pain levels). Our senior boy had the worst skin and fur for years and his vet just continued to do the same therapies – take antibiotics, steroid shots, prednisone, shampoos, allergy meds etc – spent tons of money. Then, we had our little girl’s vet (the one who sees her for her ortho conditions take a look at him – she was extremely concerned due to the shape of his skin and how severe it was – the other vet could have cared less it seemed always sticking to the same routine…she told us to immediately switch proteins, change to a very different type of allergy medication, and then she immediately looked in the very back of his mouth (we have been getting him dentals every year and he had just had one not long before this, so imagine our surprise when she told us this) – she said his teeth in the back were so bad – she took him to get a dental and one week later his skin cleared up and all of his fur grew back in – he had to have 9 teeth pulled and part of his gum removed. We were not happy since we had just had him n for a dental few months before. We have now moved all pugs under her care.
    We moved him over to Nature’s Variety rabbit when we had to change protein sources and he has done wonderfully on this food – so I am not sure about the lamb. I am so sorry that this is happening to your pugs – because I know how frustrating it can be. I really hope that you can figure it out and if you even need to talk just let me know! I LOVE pugs – they are the best ever! I truly hope you can figure out what is causing the hair loss before it gets bad. It sounds like it is the food. <3 Chrissy

  • Jose

    We have a 12 year old sheppar lab mix and downgraded his feeding to 3/4 of a cup and that did the trick… he had to loose some weight because of his arthritis.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    Are you feeding CN Lamb and Rice or Grain Free Lamb? In either case, those foods are only 21% protein 11% fat and switching to Instinct Lamb might have shocked their system a bit. Instinct Beef and Lamb is 37/20 and LID Lamb is 29/18.
    On another note, my foster pugs have been eating the Nutrisource GF Lamb and/or the Heartland Select and they haven’t had any issues of any kind.

  • tracy

    This thread is a few months old,but if anyone reads this and has any info would be great.I have always fed my pugs a 4or5 star food.We just tried Natures variety ,Instinct lamb formula.They ate it for 2 days 4 meals.I noticed that my girls were going bald on there legs,butts and belly.Not just one but all 3 of my girls.And they are scooty and itching more.They are not allergic to lamb as we just finished a bag of CN lamb flavor.I dont doubt this is a good food,but in all my years 11 of feeding kibble ive never had one have this horrible effect on my pugs and so fast.I cant imagine what would have happened if they kept on eating it a few more days..they would be bald!What in this food could have caused this?

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi Stephanie –

    The only two Nature’s Variety Instinct foods that have appropriate calcium levels for growing large/giant breed puppies are the rabbit meal formula and the limited ingredient diet turkey formula. I emailed Nature’s Variety asking for average calcium levels and they got right back to me. Also, calcium levels are listed for several of their formulas online. Maybe this list will help you out – I recently put it together, it’s a list of 4 and 5 star grain-free foods with appropriate calcium levels for large/giant breed puppies:

    https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BwApI_dhlbnFY183Q0NVRXlidWc/edit

  • Stephanie

    I think there’s something sketchy about the calcium levels in the Raw Boost. I have a one-year-old giant breed who does best on grain/potato-free food and I’ve been trying to find one that has appropriate calcium levels for a growing dog of his size, to rotate with Great Life. Raw boost looked like it might fit the bill, but after three separate emails to the company asking for the calcium/phosphorus percentages of these formulas, I’ve heard nothing. Crickets.

    In addition, their website lists the percentages of almost every vitamin and mineral EXCEPT calcium and phosphorus. I have to wonder if this omission, coupled with what seems like a calculated evasion of my question, means that the levels are dangerously high and something they don’t want to confirm in writing. This wouldn’t be shocking given that at least one variety of regular Instinct lists a min. calcium level of 2.49%, just .01% lower than the maximum level considered safe by the AAFCO.

    I hope I’m wrong about this, but I wanted to give a heads-up to anyone with a young or large-breed dog who is considering this food.

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  • Shawna

    Okay, I have to admit that I agree and am a bit of a hypocrite :) ..  JUST last week a good friend of mine asked me to critique a specific canned food which has a small amount of rice in it.  I told her the food looked good and that I would use it in my rotation.

    High protein, SMALL amount of less problematic grain, given infrequently in the rotation…  Plus the food looks good enough to eat :) .

  • Hound Dog Mom

    I agree, I’m not a fan of grains either however I was just trying to point out I’d go for a high protein grain-inclusive food like the ones I mentioned (Nature’s Logic  38% protein, Wysong Optimal Performance 40% protein) over one of those “grain-free” foods with 20% protein or so.

  • Shawna

    I HATE grains but otherwise agree with you :)

    Grains just have too many negatives — high omega 6 content, anti-nutrients like phytates, enyzme inhibitors (in some cases making protein harder to digest), lectins in grains seem to cause more problems then lectins in other foods……..etc.. :)   Just my opinion though…

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Hi Jenn Hill –

    I got that article in my email this morning and I pretty much agree with what everyone else is saying.

    As far as dry dog foods go Instinct is one of the best out there. I feed my dogs raw, but if I were to feed dry Instinct would definitely be in my rotation.

    As far as tapioca goes I think it’s mostly a marketing tactic – you have to look at the overall protein content of the food. Same goes with grain-free. Many manufacturers like to advertise that their food is grain-free, but in reality the food is just loaded with a non-grain binder like white potatoes. Other manufacturers like to advertise grain-free/white potato free and use tapioca instead. The thing is, tapioca is basically pure carbohydrate and nutritionally devoid (for the most part). As Shawna said, it is hypoallergenic so if your dog is sensitive to grains or white potatoes a food with tapioca would be a good choice. A grain-free/white potato free, tapioca based food is not, however, nutritionally superior to a grain-inclusive or white potato inclusive food granted that the protein contents are similar (in my opinion). All kibbles need to contain a binder – be it grain, potato, legumes, or tapioca – so you need to check protein content, the higher the protein content the less binder. Instinct has a high protein content. For example, I would feed a high protein grain-inclusive food like Nature’s Logic or Wysong Optimal Performance over a low protein “grain-free food.” I would also feed a high protein white potato inclusive food like Orijen over a “white potato free” lower protein food.

    Here is an article on tapioca in pet food from Wysong:

    http://www.wysong.net/pet-health-and-nutrition/tapioca-in-pet-food.php

    Here is a table comparing the nutrition of tapioca to other binders in kibble:

    http://www.wysong.net/PDFs/healthiergrains.pdf

    Personally, I’m not sold on the white potato free/grain free thing when it comes to kibble. I do feed my dogs a grain-free/starch-free raw diet but if I had to feed kibble I would evaluate foods on protein content, not which binders they use.

  • Shawna

    The only food in your list that I don’t care for is the Blue Buffalo..  Evanger’s has had some problems with their owners but I can’t say for absolute sure that it is affecting their foods..  But I personally avoid their products too..

    Stella & Chewy’s freeze dried, in my opinion (and Dr. Becker would agree), is too high in fat.  The duck and chicken products are the only ones close to a proper ratio but they too are still high in fat.  Even if you pup is slim, too much fat is an indication that poor quality cuts of meet might be being used and too much fat displaces protein just like too much carbs..  Feeding in ration with lower fat foods can offset the high fat content of the S&C’s though..

    Named meals are added because the food could not have appropriate amounts of animal protein without them.  I like to see products have both (as an example) chicken AND chicken meal but I wouldn’t not use a product because it had only the meal.. 

    Chicken as the first ingredient could be very deceptive as ingredients are listed by weight.  Once the water is removed, chicken could actually be much lower on the ingredient list..

  • Shawna

    Jenn Hill ~~ in my opinion, the Raw Boost is a marketing scheme by the manufacturer..  There is no more protein in the food then in the Instinct line (which has “raw” food sprayed on it after processing).

    However, Dr. Becker is not saying this is a bad food but rather saying she hopes people don’t confuse it with raw.  Even though it says it is “raw” technically it is not because it has been subjected to high pressure pasteurization as well as freeze drying.  Does not have the moisture content of raw..  Etc…  Doesn’t make it a bad food (as kibbles go) but does mean it isn’t really raw..

    Also, she states that tapioca isn’t bad.  She states “As kibble binding agents go, tapioca is less problematic than many others. But it isn’t nutritious for dogs and cats. And keep in mind it’s number two on the ingredient list, which means there’s lots of it in the mixture.”  However, there is no more tapioca in the food then there is potato in Taste of the Wild or grains in XXXX..  She is simply stating that it is not any more species appropriate then grains or potato.  However, it is less problematic then grain and potato from what I can find.

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

    Personally, I’m not afraid of tapioca either:  
    To quote Dr. Mike:  ”The fourth item is tapioca, a gluten-free, starchy carbohydrate extract made from the root of the cassava plant.
    For this reason, tapioca is especially welcome for its hypoallergenic properties.”

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

    Jenn, 

    Chicken meal is a good thing.  : )  Check out Dr. Mike’s article:  http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/choosing-dog-food/about-meat-meal/.

    You’re making a lot of great choices in foods and your rotation!  

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1059960084 Jenn Hill

    I have been feeding her the raw boost formula. I guess tapioca is a controversial ingredient. She is saying that it isn’t a horrible food, but that it could be better. I really liked natures variety when I first started feeding it to my golden but have been second guessing them over the past month and then I received this email.

    Can anyone tell me why there is chicken meal as the first ingredient and not just chicken? Does it have to do with moisture content? Also, I only feed her a cup of kibble a day. We do give her more canned than dry. AND on top of that we use Stella & Chewy’s freeze dried as a topper. So as you said, it’s not like this is the only food she is getting everyday. We mix up the brands of canned food we give her from Merrick, to Natures Variety Instinct, to Blue Buffalo, to Evangers. So she is getting quite the variety of ingredients already. I still like Natures Variety Instinct just am wondering if there might be something better for the price. 

    It’s so hard and my golden does seem to be doing just fine on the food we have been feeding her. Everyone always complements how shiny her coat is and asks if she just received a bath, when she hasn’t. And I am aware that different dogs react differently to foods. I guess I am just frustrated and am concerned.

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

    It appears she’s describing Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost:  
    http://www.naturesvariety.com/Instinct/RawBoost/dog/chicken.  

    I also use Nature’s Variety Instinct kibble in my rotation and personally feel it’s a quality product.  You’re adding moisture by topping with the canned food ~ that’s great.  I also top with canned and love Darwin’s (commercially prepared & packaged raw: 
    http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-reviews/darwins-dog-food/ ; 
    http://www.darwinspet.com/ ) as a topper as well.  You might also consider adding NVI medallions and patties to the kibble you’re using.

    I don’t do homemade raw either, but fortunately there are lots of options for people like us.  The article doesn’t concern me, probably as I’m not using kibble exclusively.  I’ll be interested to hear what others have to say.  

  • Dave’s Hounds

     Jenn I don’t think this food was chosen as a poor quality kibble – the comparison is made to raw. This is a high quality kibble and you are also feeding canned so I wouldn’t worry. No kibble will compare well to raw or fresh.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1059960084 Jenn Hill

    I have been feeding my Golden Retriever Natures Variety Instinct for about 6 months now. We combine it with canned food as well. I am concerned though after just receiving this email from Mercola Healthy Pets. They don’t state that they are talking about this food, but it is quite obvious. She makes a good point and I am now considering switching to a different kibble for my dog. I know that she obviously recommends a homemade diet but it’s just not something we are capable of giving her right now. What other kinds of kibble would you recommend for our 1 year old female Golden? http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/09/05/raw-kibble-pet-food.aspx?e_cid=20120905_oldPetsNL_art_1

  • melissa

    Your lucky., In my part of NY, it is most definitely quite a bit more per bag, and that was at Petco

  • Erikeetparakeet

    Instinct is my favorite kibble ever! It’s the only food that will keep my Corgi mix fit and settles with my 13 year-old Border Collie’s tummy. My BC was on Orijen, and suffered HGE which almost killed him and resulted in $3000 of Vet bills! I have since met several other people with dogs, varying from 6 months to 10 years old, who have also suffered HGE on Orijen. I didn’t trust kibble at all, I only fed raw or home-made, but my BC cannot go through diet changes without an upset stomach after his illness. I tried Instinct, and it’s really great for my dogs, nearly as great as prey model raw.

    For those of you complaining about firm stools, that’s a GOOD THING!!! As a groomer, I see so many dogs whose anal glands are literally full of awful anal juice. D: My dogs don’t have a thing in their anal glands, they naturally express them on their own, because they have firm stools. Stools should not be huge and loose, they should be small and hard! If your dog is constipated, add some water/meat/canned food to their kibble. If your dog doesn’t like Instinct, return it and try a different flavor. My dogs prefer Duck/Turkey or Rabbit but they’ll eat any variety! I occasionally buy the raw boost for fun, but it’s definitely not $15 more around here! Try $3. And I do feel it’s worth it, as the bag is full of big chunks, and the same amount of freeze-dried raw patties costs $15 if you buy it separately. I buy Instinct at Petco… maybe try going there for the raw boost? Mine was only $17 and my dogs love it.

  • Shonlei

    Dave’s Hound, I believe the instinct is probably just to much period, she wouldn’t eat it and hasn’t ate for two days, she refused to eat it. When she did it gave her really hard stools and small pebble ones as people and workers said it would. I’m sorry, but I don’t agree with that. A dog should have nice firm regular bowel movements like us and she seems to like her origanal merrick, but there gonna discontinue that and replace it with there new brand and that has me alil annoyed cuz I’ve tried so many dog foods for her and finally found one she likes and now the company is replacing it with one that is ok and we tried it, but now she gets mucusy stuff with her stools now. The least merrick could do is give you options with the 2.. I’m so frustrated and don’t know what else to do..

  • Dave’s Hounds

    Shonlei add a small spoon of canned pumpkin with the food – it will help with the loose stool. Put a topper on the Instinct and they will eat it

  • Shonlei

    So i have tried instinct the last couple days and my pit rejected and would not eat. I come to relize that she will only and likes merrick. My pit is on merrick as well and she does well on the orignal formula, she has good firm stools, however they always been very dark green so not sure if that should be a concern.. we have now tried the new brand, due to all the new healthy good ingrediants I that I thought would be good, but her stools have loosened up a little with some thick mucus here and there. Not sure what to make of that! I do know I’m upset that merrick is no longer gonna carry there origanal brand, so there not giving there customers a choice between the two. I am not very sure of this new brand and I feel like if creating a new formula with a new ingrediants the kibble should smell differant like any others and not smell and look the same as the origanal. My pit is a saved dog and we tried multiple good brands out there. She is a B.G dog and now there taking that line off, so I really don’t know what to do.. Thanks Merrick for not giving your customers a choice between the origanal brand and new one..

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  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    As for the high protein in Instinct Chicken, it depends on how much chicken meal there is as it is the first ingredient.  There could be (as an example) 10 lbs of chicken meal in there versus 4 lbs of duck meal, 3.5 lbs turkey meal and 2.5 lbs of salmon meal in the Duck recipe. Your pit might be sensitive the amount of ash in the food that comes from the meat meals.  The Chicken is 42% protein where the Duck is 35%.  The main kibble I use right now is 30% but I also serve canned foods and raw foods so their output is also varying!  On the kibble and canned, their stool is medium formed.  On raw it’s firm formed and turns ashy and will crumble to dust.  I didn’t read the posts all the way down.  Someone might have already mentioned adding in some canned pumpkin with feedings for the stool. My dogs have also eaten the Horizon Amicus in the past with good outputs.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    My crew was eating Instinct Duck without any poop problems.  Actually their poops are smaller and firmer on raw – like little bird eggs sometimes.  The Merrick GF and the Earthborn Primitive still contain white potatoes.  Have you looked at Brothers Complete Allergy?  Other sweet-potato based foods (although Merric has both sweet and white) are Victor GF and Nature’s Select GF.  I use the Nature’s Select on my fosters.  Mine eat Brothers Red Meat and some of them eat half Natures Select/Brothers.  Also as mentioned below, Horizon is potato free as is Innova Prime.

    For the demodex/skin/coat, I would suggest some immune system boosters and krill oil.  I have on hand spirulina, chorella, Dr Harveys MultiVit.  I also like OnlyNaturalPet Super Daily Greens or StarWestBotanicals GreenPower.  OnlyNaturalPet also has a line of dog food called I and Love and You.  It is similar to Horizon and Innova.  My crew also get garlic, sometimes granulated, sometimes in Flea Free Supplement.

    I haven’t used spot-ons since last fall and for the yard I spray garlic spray and neem oil spray.  On the dogs I use essential oils instead of the pesticides.

    http://wolfcreekranch1.tripod.com/flea_free.html

    http://www.onlynaturalpet.com

  • Shonlei

    Hey there proud saved pit owner here!! Some of you may already know me from other post.. I need opionins and help on dog food.. my pit has been on merrick and the new reformulated brand and no issues, only that she gets dark firm stools and I may believe she has a small minor allergy issue and I’m not to impressed with the new line. They have all new igrediants, but the kibble is still the same with the smell and stool hasn’t changed one bit as if it should if there were new ingrediants.. seems like a hoax to me! Anyways, how does everyone feel with instinct chicken and if it so high in protein, why is tapioca the second ingrediant. Usually the first 3 ingrediants should be the meat protein.. so, I tried her on instinct for a week, no known issues, just her poop was way to hard and small and she probably go once a day, not feeling good with that. Eartborne she seems to like , but poop is getting soft and she is licking , so I have a feeling I need to stop.. so my runners up are back to merrick or instinct.. anyone have any good insites on these food or on instinct. Also what is good for apartment, lazy pit,lol.. please and thank you

  • SW

    Hi, there. I was under the understanding that I am not to add water to this food for my big dog as there is a certain ingredient in it that could lead to bloat should water be added. I do however just add a heaping teaspoon to his morning kibble of plain pumpkin. He loves it and it works great for firming up stools.

  • U-Dawg

    Canola Oil more than likely sourced from GMO corn. Somewhat concerning. 

  • Hound Dog Mom

    The Honest Kitchen, NRG, Nature’s Logic, and the Great Life are some more that I believe claim to be 100% China Free (including vitamins & minerals).

  • melissa

     Bryan-

    For me, its about disclosure. I prefer china free. But unfortunately there are so few,so I pick and choose which ones I do trust.Of course not everything is bad from there, but the track record of our kids toys having lead, and the dog food having melamine does not bode well. Fortunately, my understanding is that many of the companies get their vitamin/mineral mix from a company called Alltech, which is supposed to the “top notch” in tracking and accountability as to where each individual ingredient comes from etc.  

  • BryanV21

    Not everything out of China/Asia is bad. It’s not a surprise that somebody within their company would pause at saying an ingredient is from China, as there’s a really bad stigma attached to that country.

    If you want to be 100% sure of everything in a dog’s diet… go raw. Not pre-made raw that comes from companies like Nature’s Variety or Primal, but you buy the meat and everything else to put into the meal. But if I’m not going raw, then some level of trust needs to happen.

  • melissa

     When I called Nutrisource, I was told their vitamins/minerals “possible may” originate from China/Asian countries. : )

  • BryanV21

    Merrick is another food that I’d be happy to sell to somebody. Although I don’t know much about their new line of foods, but I have yet to hear anything truly negative about them.

  • melissa

     NanCay-

    There are very few companies that claim 100 percent China free-Champion(Acana/Orijen) and now Merrick are two that come to mind. There may be a few others that some one can come up with.

    Most of the others source their vitamin/minerals from Asian countries.

  • BryanV21

    Okay, so my choice of words was incorrect. Of course they don’t have their own farms. Fromm doesn’t have cattle so that they can make the cheese they put into their food (although it is Wisconsin, so who knows?). I should have said something along the lines that they simply don’t get their ingredients from questionable places. 

  • melissa

     Bryan-

    What do you mean by Fromm and Nutrisource do not “outsource their ingredients” but NV does?? All companies “ousource” their ingredients(buy them) unless they own the raw materials themselves. A little confused by what you mean??

  • NanCay

    Thanks.  What about Merrick?  I think I read on the NV website that the only product they get from China is their rabbit.

  • BryanV21

    1. I wouldn’t buy dog food from a grocery or department store. Not that it’s all junk, but more often than not you’re paying for doggie fast-food. If that type of store is all you have, then I’d look online. Otherwise you’re going to have more research to do.

    2. Go to Diamond Pet Foods wikipedia page and see a list of companies that make their foods in Diamond plants. Once you have that list then you know of some companies to avoid. Again, not that they’re all bad, but with all the issues Diamond has had you’re better off just avoiding them.

    I like smaller companies like Fromm and Nutrisource, which don’t outsource any ingredients. When they’re small like that then they can oversee things better, and avoid “issues” like the ones Diamond has had. 

    For the record, Nature’s Variety does get their ingredients from outside sources. That doesn’t mean I wouldn’t trust their food though, as I do and happily recommend that to customers at my store. 

    The best thing to do is read around this site, which has invaluable information. Not that this is the end-all be-all information source for dog food, but Dr. Mike’s done a hell of a job here.

  • melissa

    NanCay-

    You sort of have to decide that for yourself. I take into consideration who makes the food, how open to answering ?? the company is, recalls etc. I prefer 100 percent China free, however so few companies are that it would seriously limit my rotation abilities. So, I choose 100 percent China free 99 percent of the time, and rotate in other higher quality kibbles from time to time. NV is one that I use, though I prefer the rabbit as its canola free.

  • NanCay

    Anyone know if Nature’s Variety is a trustworthy company?
    Which dog food companies are the most trustworthy? The least?? 

  • Richard J Breard

    I bought a 4 pound bag of the Instinct Raw Boost Chicken Meal Formula today. She loved the freeze dried so much she picked it all out and left the kibble. I’m sure the kibble is very good ,it smells good but this is like feeding a child a plate of meat, potato’s, vegetables and candy on the same plate. We know what the child is going to eat.

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    I recently received a small sample of the Instinct Raw Boost kibble for my cat and while this isn’t dog food I did notice that there weren’t very many of the freeze dried (I think they’re freeze dried) raw pieces in the bag.  My cat seemed to like it fine, but I think we’ll be sticking to Fromm dry and Weruva wet.  I also noticed that the moisture was lower and the protein higher (as fed) than the original Instinct.  The dogs will not be eating this food either.

  • melissa

    HDM-

    Oh goody-the opportunity to pay $15 more, for less! Seriously for that , one can just buy the premade raw and throw in a medallion or two to the original and have a better product : )

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Mike –

    The original Instinct already had a freeze-dried raw coating so I think the new raw boost is more for looks/marketing. The Raw Boost does have a slightly lower moisture content than the original Instinct indicating that it likely has more freeze dried raw, however in my opinion I don’t really think it’s enough to merit an extra $15 for a bag of food that’s 2 lbs. lighter. It doesn’t have anymore protein than the original (it actually has less on a dmb basis due to the lower moisture content).

  • Mike

    3 additional varietys of Instinct dry dog foods have started showing up at PSP. They are labled as RAW Boost. Since the RAW portion is freeze dried is there any additional value in this food as compared to the “standard” Instinct kibble

  • Dave’s Hounds

     Shawna you keep your kibble in the fridge?

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  • dogfriendly

    Thanks for the info.  I’ve been mixing a little water with the regular Instinct to help with the firm stools.  For my big dog, it seems to make a difference.  The jury is still out on the effects for my little dog.  Thanks again!

  • LA

    No – it is hard to find – but I am a little hesitant as it has Mono Clay in it and beet pulp – both cause firm stools and I have two girls that always have problem with constipation – so I am a little nervous to use.  So what I do at times is break-up primal freeze dried raw or Stella & Chewys Freeze Dried and put it in their kibble, and therefore I can change the freeze dried raw to lamb or the next day duck, etc.

  • dogfriendly

    Has anyone tried Instinct Raw Boost yet?  I just saw it on the shelf next to the regular Instinct. It’s actually their regular Instinct with bite-sized pieces of freeze dried raw ingredients.

  • Jerry

    Thanks for the insight, appreciate it!

  • http://www.facebook.com/bryanv21 Bryan Van Dusen

     Thanks. I did see your reply too. This is great information. I’m glad I messed up here… lol

  • Shawna

    Hi Bryan ~~ I posted below too but if you missed Melissa’s you probably missed mine too :)

    My dogs get a different food every two to three days.  I would change it up every meal but too much effort for my current schedule.  However, I commented below, that Dr. Becker (a raw feeder) feeds a different protein and starch source with EVERY meal and rotates through 12 different protiens before feeding the original one again..  Other then being raw, it would be just like she feeds her human family.

    For my kibble eating dogs, I rotate in a new brand and protein source with each new bag of kibble (I buy the small bags).  I’d rotate more often but I don’t have sufficient refrigeration to keep the fats in the kibble of multiple opened bags fresh..

    Edit — I primarily feed raw to 5 of the dogs in my home.. BUT, sometimes I forget to have food thawed out. When this happens I may feed eggs, or kibble or dehydrated. So in the am meal they may get the last of the 54% protein raw but have to eat 38% protein dehydrated for dinner and then back to maybe 48% raw the next morning. Never any issues…

    2nd Edit — I also agree that people shouldn’t be bullied for not rotating like I or Dr. Becker or anyone else does.. I was simply stating that it shouldn’t harm a healthy dog to do so.. If a dog can’t make the switches without having issues then their digestive tract probably isn’t as healthy as it could be.. :)

  • Shawna

    Yes, a psuedo-grain :)

    Millet seed is a very common seed product that never quite made the grade into the North American market of grain cereals. Yet, it’s growing in demand and is becoming one of the most sought-after seed types. The seeds are available in grocery stores and pet shops, and the grass is increasingly used to feed horses.http://www.ehow.com/about_6585320_millet-seed_.html

    Technically quinoa is
    not a true grain, but is the seed of the Chenopodium or Goosefoot plant.  http://chetday.com/quinoa.html

  • http://www.facebook.com/bryanv21 Bryan Van Dusen

    I’m sorry, I don’t know how I missed all those responses.

    I’m not saying don’t switch their foods. Not at all. I actually tell people that unless they are giving their dog foods that have different animals in them, to switch every once in a while. Afterall, a dog can develop an allergy to an ingredient over time (see “chicken”).

    What I was saying earlier was that dogs are not like humans, so you can’t treat them like one. Saying “I eat something different for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and change that up every day of the week. So I can do the same for my dog” is not necessarily true. Some dogs are not going to react well to doing that. Clearly there are exceptions, but somebody shouldn’t look down on those that feed the same kibble every day.

    It seems that I was wrong about the different levels of protein in the different foods. I’ll make sure to tone down that bit of advice. Are you sure dogs can’t react negatively to such changes, though?

    Again, sorry for not responding earlier. I have to do a better job of looking for replies to my posts.

  • Marie

     But aren’t they more like psuedo-grains? My Google-fu states that they aren’t a member of the grass family.

  • Shawna

    Ditto to everything you said!!

    PS — millet and quinoa are techincally seeds :) ..

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    I like Pinnacle, Avoderm’s Revolving Menu and Fromm’s new Salmon grain free or their Game Bird grain free.

  • Hound Dog Mom

    Jerry,

    You might as well stick with the Nature’s Variety Prairie if that was working for your dog. Unless your dog is allergic to grains it won’t benefit from eating a “grain-free” food that is low in protein. Non-grain carbohydrates are no healthier for a dog than grain-based carbohydrates. Benefits are only derived from grain-free diets when by removing the grain, carbohydrate levels are decreased and protein levels are increased. In my honest opinion I think that some high-protein/low-glycemic grains like millet or quinoa would be healthier than all the white potatoes in a food like Blue Freedom. I personally would feed my dogs a grain-inclusive food like Nature’s Logic, which contains millet, before I would feed a “grain-free” food like Blue Freedom.

  • Jerry

    Just finished my first bag of kibble since going grain free, which was Instinct Duck Meal and Turkey Meal Formula using mixed Instinct canned varieties as toppers.  I’ve used Prarie in the past and my dog (9lb dachshund mix) was fine with it, but she has not handled the grain-free high-protein switch very well…soft stools and progressively eating less.  Thought it might have been the duck protein source as she never had it before, but it might just be the increased protein level.  I’ve slowly transitioned her to the Beef Meal and Lamb Meal Formula and now she refuses to eat it at all.  I’m a fan of Nature’s Variety so this is dissappointing.

    I want to stay grain free but am looking to go lower protein…Blue Buffalo Freedom looks like a good brand to start with.  Any other similar grain free, lower protein brands you guys can recommend?  Thanks!

  • doggonefedup

    Shawna,
    Sorry it took so long to get back to you. 
    Thank you again. wish I would’ve found out about the Pancreatrophin 4 yrs ago. Sciency is good but sometimes it does start to sound like Charlie Brown’s teacher. Either way I’m always willing to learn.

  • melissa

     Hi Bryan-

    I have to agree with every one else that has responded. My dogs are 1 yr to 14 yrs of age(3 are turning 15 this year) . I switch up the kibble, the home cooked and the canned portions periodically. The canned is whatever my hand grabs out of the cabinet, the kibbles I feed 2 at a time mixed(flavor rotated monthly, brands rotated when I feel like it) and the home cooked is whatever I got at the market that week : )

    In regards to the kibble only, its my personal belief that while its great to switch flavors/varieties, its even better to switch brands at least 2-3 times a year.

    In the past year, my guys have eaten(not all with success) Acana grain free, BG, Acana Singles, Pro Pac, Blue Buffalo(wilderness and regular)  Natural Balance ultra, Nutrisource grain free, Earthborn holistic grain free, Grandma Mae’s, Dave’s, Fromm, Nutrisca,Nature’s Variety, Grandma Lucy’s and a few others that I do not recall right now-none the worse for wear, andmeal times are an exciting event for them.

  • Shawna

    Doggonefedup ~~ Off the top of my head, and since he is doing so well, the only thing I would suggest is checking out Standard Process Pancreatrophin and possibly Paraplex..  I know you are giving an enzyme that is made from pancreas but Pancreatrophin is different in that is (in the correct circumstances in people and pets) can help rebuild the tissue that is damaged by removing inflammation to the organ.  I’m not explaining it very well…  It’s a bit complicated and I get in trouble for being too “sciency”, but will explain if asked :)

    Here’s some documentation on it http://www.standardprocess.com/display/displayFile.aspx?docid=149&filename=/Public/Lit/TabSheets/pancreatrophinpmg6650.pdf

  • doggonefedup

    Shawna,
    Thank You, He is 7now and has been EPI since the age of three. Every now and then he does manage to get into one of the other dishes when nobody is looking! Then he gets that rumble gut and watery stool. which goes away with his next meal. I use BioCaseV and Epizyme interchangeably.
     Is there anything you would add to his diet?
     besides the porcine enzyme? 

  • LA

    I know what you mean – I was a the dog store today and they don’t even carry the kibble with raw pieces in it (Raw Boost) in fact they said the sale rep never told them about it.  They went on the Nature website I guess to make sure I wasn’t out of my mind telling abou the food and they found it on the site.   I thing I am having a problem with is the Clay that is their food. On all the bags I looked at it is the like the 3rd ingred where on the new food is like near the bottom.    I think I will just use the kibble I already have and add the freeze dry raw to it.

  • Shawna

    WOW Doggonefedup ~~ he’s a great looking boy for having EPI!!!  NICE JOB!!!!

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    My group ages 4 to 10 also eat a variety at random. Kibble, canned, freeze dried raw, frozen raw, and RMB, red meats, white meats, seafood.  My fosters will eat 2 different kibbles but different canned toppers.

  • doggonefedup

    Here is a photo of the of the GSD with pancreatic insufficiency. He eats exactly the same food as my other boys except he get an enzyme added to his food. 

  • doggonefedup

    Bryan,
    Gotta say you’re wrong this time. I’ve got German Shepherd dogs and one is EPI. I switch between 7 different brands of Kibble 3 of which I have on hand at all times, 5 different brands of canned w/a couple varieties from each brand, plus fresh meats including beef, chicken, lamb, pork, rabbit, and water fowl. plus venison a couple times per year.  They get a combination of can, kibble, and fresh with every meal. I switch them all at random everyday. In addition they get fresh organ meat as a mid-day snack almost every day also. that includes chicken liver, chicken gizzards, beef liver, beef kidney, beef heart, pork liver, and veal liver. again switched at random.  They’re all very healthy and are very active.

  • Toxed2loss

    Hi Bryan,
    I too switch up Rosie and Sonya on a whim. Since we rotate they have a full compliment of enzymes. It actually is a much more realistic feeding pattern, as canines used to eat whatever was available, whether wild, or domesticated. Dogs used to get table scraps… Rotational diets are knwn to be healthier. :-)

  • Shawna

    Hi Bryan ~~ I usually agree with you but in this case I do not..

    Why do you feel that dogs can not handle dietary changes any differently then humans?  I have not found this to be true..  True, I don’t change the diet with every meal (due to ease of feeding) but I do change about every 2nd to 3rd day.  Last night my dogs had Bravo lamb and today they are having Primal Rabbit.  Next I will give them Trader Joe turkey breast with Honest Kitchen Preference.

    My foster dogs get kibble with a combination of whatever raw I am feeding (a heaping teaspoon to tablespoon) as well as a teaspoon of canned.  I rotate their kibble with every new small bag — Brothers Complete, Merrick Before Grain, Orijen etc.

    Dr. Karen Becker DVM (raw feeder) changes the protein source with every single meal and rotates through 12 different proteins before feeding the first again.   http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-feeding-tips/dr-becker-dog-food-allergies/

  • hounddogmom12

    Bryan Van Dusen,

    Dogs can’t handle changes in food if their owners condition them to not handle changes in food. I prepare my dogs meals from scratch daily and they eat a different protein, different fruits and vegetables, different supplements, and different efa sources at each meal. No issues, because this is what they’re used to. Dogs are perfectly able to eat different foods at each meal as humans are and I feel it is wrong to feed any living thing the same food day after day. Also, as far as rotating only between different flavors of kibble within the same brand that, in my opinion, will not benefit the dog as much as switching brands entirely or adding a variety of fresh foods. If you look at ingredient lists of different flavors of the same brand, generally the only ingredient that changes is the protein source, usually the same supplements, fruits, and vegetables are used. This still is not enough variety.

  • http://www.facebook.com/bryanv21 Bryan Van Dusen

    While I agree with switching up foods every once in a while, the comparison between a humans eating the same thing every meal is not quite right. Dogs bodies can not handle the switches in food, particularly in the different levels of things like protein, as well as humans can.

    When I advise somebody to change things up I look to keep them within the same ranges of proteins, fiber, and carbohydrates, so as to make the switch as easy as possible. I have many customers that switch around between the 4-star Fromm foods this way.

  • hounddogmom12

    I agree, it would be nice to be able to see which products are going to
    be reviewed (there are a few raw foods I’ve been waiting for reviews
    on).

    As for the new Instinct, I personally think the original was better. The original contained freeze-dried raw too so I don’t see why they felt the need to come out with this “Raw Boost”? Maybe if it was higher in protein, but it actually contains less protein than the original (45.652% dmb for the Raw Boost versus 46.667% dmb for the original – both based on the chicken formulas). The new “Raw Boost” contains less omega 3′s (0.3% versus 0.69% in the original). The new formula also contains a smaller variety of ingredients in my opinion, for example it only contains chicken eggs while the original contained chicken eggs, duck eggs, quail eggs, and pheasant eggs.

  • LA

    To Mike S – Is there a list on this site where we can see the next foods that will be reviewed??   Just wondering if Nature’s Variety Instinct RAW Boost (dry kibble with freeze dried meat) will be reviewed?

  • LA

    Nature’s Variety Instinct RAW BOOST – Was in the store yesterday and saw this – it is dry kibble with freeze dried (raw meat) in it.  I guess this is new – anyone try this?? 

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  • Dlord

    I have two GSPs that were having soft stool issues and were on Diamond Naturals. They were both tested and both came back negative. I switched to Nature’s Variety Instinct Duck & Turkey and everything cleared up! They both have small normal stools now. I do switch it up for them, in the morning I’ll give them the duck & turkey kibble and then in the evening they get beef & lamb kibble and I will add some of the NV homestyle stew.  I must say that the beef & bison and the pork & sweet potato stews are a big hit with them!

  • doggonefedup

     I don’t think he is picky. I’m sure you like pizza, but how much would you like it if you had to eat it 3 times per day every single day for the rest of your life? Well German Shepherd dogs get sick of the same food day in and day out also. Rotating between several varieties helps keep him from getting bored and refusing to eat. I think the change is healthier than just one food all the time anyway.

  • doggonefedup

     GSDJagger,
     I have three German Shepherd dogs. I rotate several different kibbles with them. Taste of the wild is their favorite. I also use Evo, Ziwipeak, Pronature, Pinnacle, Royal Canin, and Natures variety. They get fresh meats and broth (water that meats were boiled in) mixed with the kibble. I keep three or four different kibbles at any point in time. I repack it into a bunch of 1.5gal. jars so I can keep rotating their food all the time. meats include Beef, Chicken, Pork, Rabbit, and Veal. I also use Beef heart, Beef liver, Beef kidney, Chicken liver, Chicken gizzards, Pork liver, and Veal liver. Whatever is on sale. I always make sure the kibble has absorbed as much water (or broth) that it can. The water helps to prevent any chance of bloat.

  • GSDJagger

    I have beed feeding my GSD this for some time now, I must have the pickiest dog ever! He was eating Blue Buffalo Wilderness and after a few bags started getting severe diarreah. I had weened him from a raw diet. I switched him through several high quality dog foods and thought the food fixed it several times, but it turned out he had giardia and he got it back about 4 or 5 times, not sure where he was getting it. Anyways, he was on this food for about 7 or 8 bags all three flavors, but won’t eat it anymore (he keeps doing this to me) so I started switching him over to Eukanauba GSD food. I know it isn’t rated as high, but it seems if I don’t switch his food occasionally he will not keep eating. Regardless this was by far the best food yet!

  • doggonefedup

     digestive enzymes are produced by the pancreas and aid in the digesting of food. replacement enzymes require a prescription from your vet.  Allivet.com is the cheapest place I have found. I use epizyme powder for my dog.   They have a non-prescription form called Bio Case V here is a link
     http://www.allivet.com/p-1222-bio-case-v-12-oz.aspx

  • acquima

    Yes, tested three separate times for coccidia and each time was negative.  What exactly are digestive enzymes, do you add them to your existing dog food?  Your suggestions are greatly appreciated!

  • hounddogmom12

    “Soft, liquid, sometimes bloody stools” sounds like coccidia to me – very common in puppies. That should’ve should up on a fecal exam though… Did you try supplementing with digestive enzymes and probiotics? Sometimes that can help. Nature’s Variety is a good food so it’s definitely worth a try. Sometimes you just have to keep trying foods until you find one that works, all dogs are different.

  • acquima

    I have a yellow lab who has had soft, liquid, sometimes bloody stools from the day we took him home from the breeder.  He has tested negative several times for parasites and worms.  He has been on Orijen Large Breed Puppy, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient, Acana Wild Prairie.  After two weeks on Royal Canin from the Vet he was much better.  I started putting him back on the Orijen and same result again.  Switched again to raw food, venison based, would not touch it which is amazing since he would eat anything in sight.  Any suggestions?  I am thinking maybe natures variety venson? 

  • Addie

    Yeah, I’ve felt the same way about their “Puppy” food as well. I hate when companies give into that kind of crap, but Instinct is one of the few potato/pea free I can find easily. The raw chicken kibble at 42% was the only one I really had any interest in. I really can’t believe how low protein their LIDs are, 29%… really????

  • Shawna

    Awesome find Addie!!  That is a GREAT idea…  I was disappointed, although, to find the food is still only 36% protein — duck formula…  This would have been a great opportunity to produce a more species appropriate kibble :( … 

    My guess is nothing about the food has changed other then chunks of raw instead of sprayed on?  Marketing technique…  I’ve been very disappointed in Nature’s Variety as a whole since Cattertons investment firm bought them out…  Example —- they had all life stage foods but decided to put out a “puppy” only food that is lower in protein and has grain???  Marketing…

  • Addie

    Haha, yeah I was wondering how they could make that claim too with Wysong around, but figured it was some tiny technicality. I know the Chicken Instinct is reasonably priced in my area, so I was just curious if this would be as well. I mix in raw anyways, but figured it never hurts to get more wherever you can. 

  • hounddogmom12

    Oh that’s neat! I thought you were talking about the raw boost bite treats. Hmm..I haven’t seen that in stores. Probably will take awhile to make it to my neck of the woods. Wasn’t there original kibble coated in freeze-dried raw anyways though?

  • Addie

    No, they have a new kibble called Instinct Raw Boost. 
    http://www.naturesvariety.com/news/52 

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  • hounddogmom12

    Well first of all I would stay away from low-calorie foods (they generally contain less protein and more fillers). If she has stomach sensitivities I would also recommend not mixing raw and dry (this is known to cause digestive upset in some dogs). It’s good that you have her on raw, that is generally the best option for dogs with sensitivities. As far as adding fiber to the raw I would recommend adding pumpkin and not brown rice. Brown rice is a grain and grains are not the best food for dogs, also have you ever tried removing all grains from her diet? Many dogs are sensitive to grains and this could be part of her problem.

  • hounddogmom12

    The raw boost are treats not a kibble and they’re around $10 for 4 oz.

  • der

    This is my first time posting.  I don’t know what to feed my 9 year old bichon.  We adopted her one year a go from a rescue group.  She was on a substandard food (dry).  Weened her onto Natural Balance reduced cal and fish/potato mix.  Until late winter she was great.  Now she is a mess.  Itching, biting, scratching all over.  We are in Indiana and have a lot of pollen.  She was at a breeder in Minnesota.  Vet says use antihistemines.  We have gone through all kinds of food.  Latest is Natures Variety instinct. Started with raw, ok for a few days, then throwing up.  Tried California Naturals Lamb/rice w/ pumpkin to transition.  Threw up.  Tried Natures Variety dry raw salmon w/wet turkey mix.  Threw up.  Don’t know where to go from here.  Anyone mixed the dry,raw with some rice for fiber?

  • Addie

    Has anyone seen the Instinct Raw Boost kibble for sale yet? I’m curious what the price range will be like. 

  • Bigo4420

    My golden has been on this food for awhile, and yes they are hard and slightly green when the come out. After the dry they turn white. Pretty sure it’s the alfalfa that causes this. All I know is that her anal glands haven’t smelled after Using instinct food

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  • Pacrimlib

    maybe it’s the montmorillonite clay that is creating the bowel problems.

  • Kdecoste

    i have been feeding the rotation raw diet for well over a year now.  all 6 of my dogs are doing outstanding!

  • Jankowski

    Give a week or two the food is no good.

  • Jankowski

    My lab had the same problem, lots of gas and sawdust like stool. the Vet said stop feeding the food and try another brand. I bought Canidae, All Life Stage Formula. This dog food is not grain free but it has good grain in it. My lab Dixie has bad allergies but not to the food but to grass believe it or not. Before I switched her to Canidae her fur was very thin and her belly and butt was balled. Now on the new food after 6 weeks she is doing alot better and her fur is growing back.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    I did feed Instinct in the past.  Currently on raw including bones and Brothers kibble and some of the dogs’ poops are the size of little bird eggs (as I have small dogs) and start turning ashy within a couple hours and they will be white the next day. This is their normal poop from eating high meat and bone content. They have been eating like this over a year.  My fosters do not eat raw with bones or high protein like my personal dogs so their output is just regular – semisolid and formed of different sizes.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    Large breeds can have problems from OVERFEEDING, not the protein content alone. They require special consideration regarding calcium/phosphorus, calcium/phos ratio as this affects their bone growth.

    Not sure if this site will help you or not as you don’t have a giant breed, but here it is:
    http://bigdogshugepaws.com/nutrition

  • Alli2

    I don’t think you should worry as long as it doesn’t look like he is uncomfortable when pooping. I do know that wolves, because their diet is raw and they get a lot of calcium from the bones of the animals they consume, their poop become ashy and chalky looking. If it seems to be hurting him though, maybe you should ask your vet.

  • petee2

    Hi, I have a 14 week-old English Bulldog puppy. I am thinking of switching him to Nature’s Variety Instinct beef and lamb (I’ve been trying him on Wellness Just for Puppy Special 5 mix but I think he’s having itching issues with it plus he doesn’t care for it much). Protein in this diet is 37%. From what I’ve read, Bulldogs shouldn’t be on a high protein diet because of joint problems, just like the large breed dogs. Is this protein content the same as the other brand diets or because it contains more meat and no fillers or grains that it won’t matter? I’m confused. 

  • Kw27

    I have not noticed the dried sawdust stools but over the last few weeks my dog ssems toh ave more gas with NV than he has in the past…I wonder if they changed their formula?

  • Kurz5

    Does anyone else feeding Instinct kibble have an issue with your dogs bowel movements appearing like dried sawdust . He’s 150lbs and his poop is three or four ping pong ball sized movements now a few times a day. Sometimes he sleeps curled up like he has a belly ache.
    I’m thinking of changing his food. But to what? HELP

  • Denise Thornberg

    Thank you Jan_Mom2Cavs and Toxed2loss!

    I’m giving him  Nature’s Variety Instinct gradually and it seems he really like it and he’s not showing any problemsthank’s for the help =]

  • Karen G.

    FYI – pet parents, I just found out that Nature’s Variety sources rabbit from China. Disappointing!

    http://www.naturesvariety.com/learning/questions/5

  • Pugsonraw

    Hi Chrissy,

    You sound like such a sweet lady, I had to reply.  I have two pugs also so I understand the skin issues, allergies and joint problems.   I’ve had the best results from getting my pugs off of antibiotics and steroids and then moving them to grain free, potato free kibble and also raw foods (Primal Rabbit or Tukey & Sardines) or Darwins Natural Selections.  One pug does better on chickpea/lentils (Nutrisca, Amicus)  based kibble, the other gravitates towards the tapioca ones (NV Instinct, Brothers Allergy).  I’ve only figured this out through trial and error and watching them close for signs of improvements.  If I might suggest something, you might want to consider supplements.  I use GlycoFlex 3 joint supplements for one dog (he has DJD), and just ordered the mercola joint supplement for the other.  I use digestive enzymes/probiotics (Mercola) for them too, sometimes salmon oil (Grizzlly) or organic coconut oil.   This has really helped with their overall health. 

    It’s true that you really need to heal dogs from the inside out and alot of problems can stem from improper digestive balance. 

    Hope this helps and good luck with the new little pug girl.  

  • Jan_Mom2Cavs

    Denise, of course it is your decision to not feed your puppy Avoderm anymore, however, imho, it’s a fine food if your pup liked it and was doing well on it.  Breeder’s Choice has been around many years and has had no recall (that I’m aware of, someone can correct me if I’m wrong).  They specifically talk about the avocado on their website.  It would seem to me if the avocado in this food was a problem we’d hear about it somewhere.  I have fed Avoderm myself in the past and like their new “Revolving Menu” foods, so may check them out in the future.  Now on to Nature’s Variety…..it is fine for your puppy.  It is grainfree and much higher in protein for your dog than the other foods you’ve mentioned (which means it’s a much richer, nutrient dense food).  So I recommend a slower transition to avoid loose stool and stomach upset.  Other than that, if your dog likes it and does well on it, then you’ve found your new food.  Good luck!

  • Toxed2loss

    If a bag says, “good for all life stages” it’s good for puppies, too. Natures variety instinct is a pretty good choice. 5 stars. :-)
    Since it’s guaranteed for all life stages, it’s guaranteed to have all the nutrients that your puppy needs. It’s way better than anything the girl at petco was offering.

  • Denise Thornberg

    Hi 
    Today is the first time I’m posting something here, I’m not a dog ” expert”..but I found this web site and it’s helping me.   I have some questions and I would appreciate if anybody could give me any help.
    I have a 5 months ( he turned 5 months today) healthy puppy poodle, when I first got him I fed him Avoderm Chicken and Rice Formula Puppy, he really like it! but then my boyfriend was really concerned about the avocado, it seam’s its not good for dogs ( if I’m wrong or anybody have more information or more understanding about it please correct me).

    So we changed for Natural Recipe (according to the petco lady it was the best one for him)… big mistake, he didn’t really like it, and  he vomited about 3 times with this food.

    I changed again.. Wellness Just for Puppy I was hoping he would like, no he didin’t! I noticed he would only eat  when he would get really, really hungry.. plus I noticed some gas from him too.

    Now based on this web site I decided to give a try on the nature’s variety Instinct Chicken…I bought a bag and I didn’t feed him yet.

    So here is my question:
    In the front of the bag it says “Complete and balanced for all life stages and all breeds”
    But I still afraid… since my puppy is 5 months old  and a small breed is it possible that this food contains every nutrient that my puppy needs? should I change it one more time for something more specific for puppies?

  • Johnandchristo

    Hi Chrissy….

    I wish there were more people in the world like
    you and your husband. best of luck with the dogs.

  • http://www.dfwpugs.com/ sandy

    I just got a little boy pug that’s supposedly 9 years old but moves around like a 13 yr old – really stiff, he does the old man shuffle and arched back.  I’ve been feeding him canned tripe with grain free kibble and giving him joint supplements and green supplement and enzymes and glandulars. Still waiting for my tumeric and mercola joint supplements to arrive. He’s getting cetyl-M joint supplement right now. After one week, he’s actually moving around better, taking wider steps and moves a little faster than “old-man-shuffle” speed – poor thing! I think I saw him in a “trot” last few days with a little bounce in his step.  Makes me sad how unhealthy he is at his age when I see MissyPoo who is 10 and vibrant, thick, muscular, even wrassles the 4 yr old pugs around some.  A year or two ago I had a 13 yr old female who had trouble getting around.  I gave her a grain free diet and joint supplements and she started jumping in and out the doggy door! 

  • Shawna

    Chrissy ~~ I agree with the others!!  YOU are an angel!!

    I foster puppy mill and damaged dogs and it warms my heart more then anyone can know when one of those little soles is adopted into a forever home…!!!  I’m a sap anyway but I AM crying right now!!

    Dr. Becker has a joint formula that looks very promising from the video information  http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/pet-joint-supplements.aspx

    Look in to non-invasive “prolotherapy” for the luxating petellas (being off grains and potatos (as well as peppers and tomatos) will help with the arthritis as well).  My Pom had stage 4 luxation in one back leg and stage 2 in the other.  My holistic vet did prolotherapy and “healed” my girl.

    The same pup (my Pom Peanut) was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder.  My holistic vet suggested a homeopathic that did wonders for her behavioral abnormalities..  She still has some quirks but the improvement has been tremendous..

    Accupuncture and/or accupressure might be a good option too..?

    Most of my dogs are broken too..  But, the difference, mine found me whereas you went looking for yours — true angels you and your husband!!!!!

    Best of luck to you and all your fur-babies!!!

  • Addie

    Hopefully Sandy sees your posts, Chrissy. She has pug fosters, and might have a few ‘special pug tricks,’ since she’s so familiar with the breed. You’re doing a great thing by adopting puppy mill dogs, and dogs from hoarding situations. If this food works for you, I’d stick with it. It’s a great food.

  • Chrissy

    Mike,
    Thank you very much for the nice words! We adopted two little girls after losing our little Daisy. Losing Daisy was the hardest thing for us, and it is still to this day terribly hard. She is missed very much. One of our little girls, is a puppy mill rescue and is missing an ear-it was bitten off by another dog in the puppy mill. She has nervous habits, but she has come such a long way. She is 3 years old. We make sure we tell her she is safe and how much we love her. Her personality is blossoming. Our other little girl came to us from Alabama. We never thought it was possible when we first saw her…but months later we were told a little girl with special needs is in need of a home. She came from a hoarding situation. She was used for breeding, while having hip displaysia, luxationg patellas, and spondylosis all beyond grade 4. She has severe alignment issues that make her not a surgical candidate, as well as osteoarthritis. She does an amazing job of compensating for everything. She loves to be with people and we make sure we tell her the same…she is safe and how much we love her! They have joined our two pug boys and somehow the family just feels complete. We do all we can to learn about nutrition and anything we can do for any of them to help make their lives better. I appreciate all of the information you have given to me. I can certainly use any suggestions and advice! *We feel that Daisy really brought them both to us…we had discussed adopting another girl prior to Daisy’s diagnosis and those were the two we looked at. One was adopted out several times and then was back when we were ready to revisit adoption again, and then the little girl from Alabama we never thought it would be possible, but she was in need of a home just at the right time and the arrangements fell into place. It feels as if they were truly meant to be with us*

    Johnandchristo: I appreciate the information you gave to me. It was extremely helpful! I know our boy pug has very bad reactions to any food other than this, or the Darford. Whenever we try to move him to something else, or try and see if he can eat what the others are eating ( NOW, or Taste of the Wild, etc all great foods) he will break out in these skin flare ups. It has to be diet, because on the above 2 foods his skin and coat do amazing. It is just odd, but he is getting a little older, so I just want to keep him happy and healthy!

    I appreciate everything! I will definitely look into supplementing her diet with some real fish : ) Sorry for the long post!

  • Johnandchristo

    Hi Mike Sagman….

    This site made all  the difference in my dogs health, I think
    that you  too, qualify as a real life angel of the pet world. Thank you , for what your doing. 

  • http://DogFoodAdvisor.com/ Mike Sagman

    Hi Chrissy,

    First of all, I always feel that folks like you who rescue dogs with known health issues (like your pug) are the real life angels of the pet world.

    And for doing this, I must say thank you.

    Menhaden are small ocean fish related to herring. They’re rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. What’s more, in their mid-depth habitat, menhaden are not exposed to mercury contamination as can be typical with deep water species.

    In my opinion, omega 3 fish oil is probably the true “secret sauce” found in joint products like Hill’s J/D.

    Fish oil is naturally rich in the prized EPA and DHA type of omega-3 fatty acids. These two high quality fats boast the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans.

    Depending on its level of freshness and purity, fish oil can usually be considered a healthy addition – especially for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis.

    The problem with fish oil (and all food oils) is its freshness (or in most cases, the lack of freshness).

    Fresh oily fish is most likely the best option. So, you may wish to consider adding the fresh dark, oily fish yourself.

    However, since that’s not very practical, I give Bailey and Molly a special treat of either canned sardines or anchovies with their meals once or twice a week.

    They seem to love this special treat. And I feel good about providing this more natural form of this essential nutrient.

    In any case, again, you’re an angel for taking such excellent care of a sweet and needy little pug.

    Hope this helps.

  • Johnandchristo

    Hi Chrissy……

    Menhaden fish meal, is just dried menhaden fish meat.
    It is a small migratory fish, that is lower in mercury, and high in omega 3. in other words its a good thing to feed your dogs. My dog had bad reactions to cheaper foods too. I feed him Brother’s Complete now and he is doing well. The bigger a fish is, the more mercury it has. good luck with your dogs.

  • Chrissy

    I have a question, and it might sound stupid, but what is  Menhaden Fish Meal? I see this in the Salmon formula and not sure exactly what it is. We feed Nature’s Variety Instinct to one of our pugs. Honestly, there is no other food out there that keep his coat on. He has the worst skin sensitivities and ever since switching him to this we have not had to make another trip to the vet! I hated going to the vet, because they always would admit they were never fixing the problem, or figuring out the cause, only masking his symptoms with antibiotics and steroids. This is when I switched him off of any type of potato, oatmeal, etc things that can contribute to yeast and I am not sure if this product fully has all those products out of it, but I have to say his coat is back and no more hair loss! I want to say, I too had a batch of Rabbit that had some hair like substances on the kibble. It is strange, but I noticed it awhile back and pointed it out to my husband. Our dog never became ill from it, but I would like to know what that was too?Also, we adopted a little girl pug with many orthopedic problems. She is so severe, she is not a surgical candidate at all. She is beyond stage 4 in all areas, her alignment is off and she has osteoarthritis. She has done a fantastic job compensating for everything and is only 2 year old. The vet suggested Hill’s J/D formula (for joints), but the ingredients bother me. I am not sure if we should do this food, or we tend to give her a high quality fish based food like Nature’s Variety, or Taste of The Wild. I am wondering if we are on the right track by feeding her fish based foods (we also supplement in raw at times), and if there are any suggestions of good quality ones?Thanks for reading such a long post! I appreciate it very much!

  • LMD

    Thanks for the update. I went ahead and rotated to chicken just in case there was a problem they needed to sort out. I’m glad they are aware of the problem though. I think NV is a very respectable company. That is very odd though.

  • UnclaimedHearts

    Update: My friend wrote the company and sent samples of the food.    
    They said the yellow fibers are from pumpkin seeds.  They agreed that the small black hairs are, indeed, hairs.  They had no explanation for the hairs in the kibble, other than that they recently changed suppliers, and that they would look into it.      I believe that’s the last my friend has heard on the subject. 

  • UnclaimedHearts

    I do not work for a competing company, and I find it quite silly of you to deem comments “bad”, when we are merely stating facts.  
    It is also quite arrogant of you to assume that “people leaving bad comments on here are most likely working for a competing company.”  Not only do I not work for a competing company, I am not involved in any pet industry at all.

  • Terry

    I have a 7mo old Cockapoo, (more Cocker than Poodle) and is on Science Diet Dry for puppies and AvoDerm Wet Chicken & Rice for puppies. She really doesn’t like either one, so I add cooked chicken to the wet, and she will eat some of the wet just to get to the chicken, and barely will nibble the dry. She is pretty thin so I spoke with my dog’s trainer and she suggested feeding her Natural Instinct dry and eliminate the wet food. She said this is what her dogs are eating and they love it. I see, for the most, part great reviews, but just wondering if Natural Instinct is something I should try ?
    Also, my daughter has a 5 mo old French Bulldog that seems to have a sensitive stomach, (throws up and diarrhea) and she was on the same foods that my dog was on, so the vet changed her to Science Diet wet/dry for a month to see how she does and her problems have stopped but we are also wondering if Natural Instinct would be a good idea for the Frenchy too ?
    Thanks,
    Terry

  • Kurz5

    any comment on Instinct Salmon kibble

  • Mike P

    Hi Btlance what formula did you buy? My Boxer did great on the chicken then we rotated to the duck and she got rock hard poop.We returned it for wilderness duck and all is well . I got a 15lb bag as I wait for our bag of Brothers White Meat to show up.She got the rocks on Brothers Red Meat so keeping my fingers crossed that she does well on the Brothers White Meat formula.