Dog Food Ingredients Explained

Buffalo is a high-quality meat that provides protein, calcium, iron and other nutrients to dogs. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). Buffalo is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Canola Meal is a vegetable oil pressed from the rapeseed plant. It is leftover from canola oil production that's often used for biofuels instead of food. Therefore, it's a cheaper and potentially lower-quality source of vegetable oils than whole Canola Oil. Canola Meal still provides nutrients such as protein, fat and essential omega fatty acids.

Canola oil is a healthy source of fat and Omega 3 fatty acids that only contains about half the saturated fat found in other vegetable oils used in dog food. We consider it a high-quality dog foo ingredient.

Carrots are a root vegetable and contains healthy nutrients like carbohydrates, fiber and beta-carotene. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Chicken is a nutritious meat that provides protein, fat and other nutrients to dogs. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). However, chicken is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Chicken and turkey broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. Chicken and turkey Broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Chicken breast is a nutritious meat that provides protein, fat and other nutrients to dogs. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). However, chicken is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Chicken broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. Chicken Broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Meat by-products are animal parts other than meat that are left over at the slaughterhouse. This can include the lung, spleen, brain, liver, blood, bone, beaks, kidneys, fatty tissue, and intestines. Because there is a wide variety of animal parts companies can use, and because details don't need to be disclosed, it's tough to compare the quality of different by-products. Generally speaking, by-products can provide important nutrients for dogs but can be of lower quality than meats and meat meals. For these reasons, we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Meat by-products are animal parts other than meat that are left over at the slaughterhouse. This can include the lung, spleen, brain, liver, blood, bone, beaks, kidneys, fatty tissue, and intestines. Because there is a wide variety of animal parts companies can use, and because details don't need to be disclosed, it's tough to compare the quality of different by-products. Generally speaking, by-products can provide important nutrients for dogs but can be of lower quality than meats and meat meals. For these reasons, we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Chicken heart is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Chicken liver is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it's rich in iron, copper, vitamin A and B. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients. Chicken meal is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) are a legume that provides nutrients such as protein, fiber, folate, iron and phosphorus. They are generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Corn (also known as maize) is a cereal grain that provides carbs, protein, fat, vitamin B and other nutrients. Because corn in dog food is an inexpensive (and often feed-grade quality) ingredient, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Corn gluten meal is a waste product from corn manufacturing that is used as an inexpensive protein source in dog food. While it provides protein, corn gluten meal is less nutritious than meat (its ability to provide amino acids to your dog's body is lower). Therefore, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Corn meal (also known as corn flour) is ground dried corn. While it provides protein, corn meal is less nutritious than meat (its ability to provide amino acids to your dog's body is lower). Therefore, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Barley is a type of grass and a cereal grain. It is a source of calories and several nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, niacin and various minerals. Barley provides carbs, energy, fiber and other healthy nutrients for dogs. Barley is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Cracked and pearled means that the barley bran has been removed and then ground

Chicken is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Turkey is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Beef is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat, iron, zinc and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Buffalo is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat, iron, zinc and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Chicken is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Duck is a waterfowl and generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat, iron, zinc, B vitamins, potassium and phosphorous. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Lamb is the meat of a young sheep and is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein and fat, as well as selenium, zinc and vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Salmon is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients such as protein, fat and selenium. Salmon also offers one of the highest Omega-3 contents of any type of fish. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Turkey is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Venison is the meat of a deer and is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that offers nutrients like protein, fat and a variety of B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). De-boned simply means that the bones have been removed.

Barley is a type of grass and a cereal grain. It is a source of calories and several nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, niacin and various minerals. Barley provides carbs, energy, fiber and other healthy nutrients for dogs. Barley is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Dehulled means that the outer shell of the barley has been removed.

Beef is the culinary name for cuts of meat from cattle, particularly skeletal muscle. In dog food, beef can also include muscle tissues from the tongue, heart, diaphragm or esophagus. Beef is rich in protein and nutrients like niacin, vitamin B12, creatine, iron and zinc. It is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Dehydrated beef has had its moisture removed with hot and dry air to preserve it.

Celery is a vegetable plant that provides dietary fiber as well as other healthy nutrients. Dehydrated celery has had its moisture removed with hot and dry air. We consider it a healthy dog food ingredient.

Dehydrated Egg Product are shell-free eggs that have had their moisture removed hot and dry air. While it provides nutrients like protein, it can be made from food-industry waste products such as eggs that failed to hatch. In other words, quality can vary. Because there are better protein sources (like whole eggs or meat) we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Lamb is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Glucosamine is a combination of glutamine (an amino acid) and glucose (a sugar) that's present in chicken. Chondroitin sulfate is a chemical that's naturally found in the cartilage around the joints of animals. Dehydrated beef have had their moisture removed with hot and dry air to preserve them.

Parsnips are a root vegetable that provides nutrients like carbs, protein, fat, fiber and various vitamins. Dehydrated parsnips have had their moisture removed with hot and dry air to preserve them. We consider it a healthy dog food ingredient.

Sweet potatoes are a root vegetable that are rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, beta-carotene and other vitamins. Dehydrated sweet potatoes have had their moisture removed with hot and dry air to preserve them. Sweet potatoes are a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Dicalcium Phosphate is a food additive that's used as a calcium supplement and to add extra texture to food (making it harder). The ingredient could potentially lead to kidney stones and other health issues (though more studies need to be conducted). Because of that, we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Docosahexaenoic acid (also known as DHA) is an Omega-3 fatty acid, typically made from fish oil, milk or algae oil. It is a widely used as a food supplement. We consider it a healthy dog food ingredient.

Beet pulp is a by-product from the processing of sugar beet. It's a somewhat controversial ingredient that some claim is a high-sugar ingredient that could potentially lead to hyperactivity and allergies - while others claim positive effects on blood sugar and intestinal health. More studies need to be conducted but a moderate amount of dried beet pulp is likely acceptable.

Chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) are a legume that provides nutrients such as protein, fiber, folate, iron and phosphorus. They are generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Dried eggs are a powder made by drying shell-free eggs. Eggs are a high-quality protein source that offers excellent amino acid availability to dogs. They also provide healthy nutrients like vitamin A, calcium and iron. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Dried egg whites are a powder made by drying shell-free egg whites. Eggs are a high-quality protein source that offers excellent amino acid availability to dogs. They also provide healthy nutrients like vitamin A, calcium and iron. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Kangaroo meat provides nutrients like protein, fat, B vitamins, riboflavin and the long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Beet pulp is a by-product from the processing of sugar beet. It's a somewhat controversial ingredient that some claim is a high-sugar ingredient that could potentially lead to hyperactivity and allergies - while others claim positive effects on blood sugar and intestinal health. More studies need to be conducted but a moderate amount of dried beet pulp is likely acceptable.

Potatoes provide carbohydrates (mostly starch) and are a rich source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between potatoes and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if potatoes are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Tapico is a gluten-free starch extracted from the root of the cassava plant. Because it mostly consists of carbohydrates and is low in fiber, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Dried eggs are a powder made by drying shell-free eggs. Eggs are a high-quality protein source that offers excellent amino acid availability to dogs. They also provide healthy nutrients like vitamin A, calcium and iron. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Yeasts are single-celled microorganisms. While commonly used, there is not yet enough scientific evidence for or against yeast as a dog food ingredient.

Duck is a waterfowl and generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat, iron, zinc, B vitamins, potassium and phosphorous. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Duck is a waterfowl and generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat, iron, zinc, B vitamins, potassium and phosphorous. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients. Duck is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Egg Product are shell-free eggs that have had their moisture removed. While it provides nutrients like protein, it can be made from food-industry waste products such as eggs that failed to hatch. In other words, quality can vary. Because there are better protein sources (like whole eggs or meat) we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Eggs are a high-quality protein source that offers excellent amino acid availability to dogs. They also provide healthy nutrients like vitamin A, calcium and iron. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Figs are a fruit and a good source of dietary fiber. Because of their high sugar content and because they do not supply a lot of other essential nutrients, we do not consider them to be a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). While fish is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. While Broth is generally fine, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients. While fish is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Flax (also known as linseed), is a plant that contains high levels of protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and dietary minerals. Flax is also very rich in thiamine, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. It's unique in that it is one of the best plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Flaxseed (also known as linseed), is the seed of the flax plant and contains high levels of protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and dietary minerals. Flax is also very rich in thiamine, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. It's unique in that it is one of the best plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Chicken is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and B vitamins. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). "Free range" is a method of farming where the animals can roam freely outdoors for at least part of the day.

Chicken liver is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it's rich in iron, copper, vitamin A and B. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Garbanzo beans (also called chickpeas) are a legume that provides nutrients such as protein, fiber, folate, iron and phosphorus. They are generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Goat is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and iron to dogs. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Goat is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that provides nutrients like protein, fat and iron to dogs. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Sorghum (also known as milo) is a starchy cereal grain plant. It offers similar nutrition to corn, is gluten-free and provides nutrients like calcium, iron and magnesium. We consider it a generally healthy dog food ingredient.

Green peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Barley is a type of grass and a cereal grain. It is a source of calories and several nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, niacin and various minerals. Barley provides carbs, energy, fiber and other healthy nutrients for dogs. Barley is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Brown rice is whole-grain rice with the inedible outer shell removed. It provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. We generally consider it a quality dog food ingredient.

Rice provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. We generally consider it a quality dog food ingredient.

Wheat is a cereal grain and a source for nutrients like protein, dietary fiber, manganese, phosphorus and niacin. Ground wheat can be of a lower-quality ingredient than whole ground wheat. We, therefore, do not consider it a high-quality ingredient.

White rice is regular rice that is milled to remove parts of the grain, including the husk, bran, and germ. This changes the flavor, texture and appearance of the rice and also extends its storage life. It provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. However, because important parts of the grain have been removed, white rice offers lower protein and other nutrients than whole grain rice or brown rice. Therefore, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Barley is a type of grass and a cereal grain. It is a source of calories and several nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, niacin and various minerals. Barley provides carbs, energy, fiber and other healthy nutrients for dogs. Barley is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Corn (also known as maize) is a cereal grain that provides carbs, protein, fat, vitamin B and other nutrients. Ground corn in dog food is an inexpensive (and often feed-grade quality) ingredient that we do not consider a high-quality dog food ingredient. However, ground whole grain corn is a higher-quality ingredient as it often contains more protein and nutrients.

Sorghum (also known as milo) is a starchy cereal grain plant. It offers similar nutrition to corn, is gluten-free and provides nutrients like calcium, iron and magnesium. We consider it a generally healthy dog food ingredient.

Corn (also known as maize) is a cereal grain that provides carbs, protein, fat, vitamin B and other nutrients. Because corn in dog food is an inexpensive (and often feed-grade quality) ingredient, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

While the heart is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Herring is an ocean fish that is very high long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). It is also a source protein, fat and other nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. We consider it a generally healthy dog food ingredient. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), also known as glucose-fructose syrup, is a sweetener made from corn starch. Because of its potential link to obesity and metabolic disorders in dogs, it's high sugar content and because it contains no fat, protein, or essential nutrients in significant amounts we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredients.

Hydrolyzed soy protein (also called vegetable protein) is made by processing natural soy into a high-protein form. Hydrolysis is a method of chemical extraction which boils the soy in sulfuric acid. Because it is heavily processed and because dogs consume the chemical by-products of the manufacturing process, we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Kangaroo is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that adds protein, fat and other nutrients to dog foods. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Lamb is generally a healthy dog food ingredient that adds protein, fat and other healthy nutrients to the dog food. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. Lamb Broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

The heart is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like protein, vitamins and minerals. Lamb heart is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

The kidney is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like protein, vitamins and minerals. Lamb kidney is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Lamb liver is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it's rich in iron, copper, vitamin A and B. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Lamb is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Tripe is the edible lining of the stomach. While it may not sound appetizing to humans it's generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Raw tripe contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. So it's important that other protein sources (like meat meals) are present in the dog food.

Lentils are a legume that provide carbs, fiber, protein and numerous nutrients like folate, vitamin B6, phosphorus, iron and zinc. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between lentils and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if potatoes are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

While the liver is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Lobster consomme is a type of clear soup that is made from lobster stock and then clarified (fat is removed). Though it doesn't add a lot of nutrients it is more flavorful than water and can help make dogs like the food more. While unusual, we generally consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

While the lung is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Meat and bone meals are created by cooking meat, tissue, bones and slaughter-house waste products using high heat. In the process, most of the water is removed, resulting in a protein-rich powder. Pure meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients. However, meals that also contain bones can be difficult to digest and have the potential to include rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources. This ingredient also doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. For these reasons, we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Meat by-products are animal parts other than meat that are left over at the slaughterhouse. This can include the lung, spleen, brain, liver, blood, bone, beaks, kidneys, fatty tissue, and intestines. Because there is a wide variety of animal parts companies can use, and because details don't need to be disclosed, it's tough to compare the quality of different by-products. Generally speaking, by-products can provide important nutrients for dogs but can be of lower quality than meats and meat meals. Additionally, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For these reasons, we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Menhanden (also known as mossbunker and bunker) is a marine fish. Menhanden fish meal is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Fish meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from the fish meat to create a protein-rich meal powder. Fish meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Oats are a cereal grain and a source of carbs, protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and dietary minerals like manganese. They are a high-quality dog food ingredient that can potentially help with colon health. Groats are oats from which the outer shell has been removed.

Oats are a cereal grain and a source of carbs, protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and dietary minerals like manganese. They are a high-quality dog food ingredient that can potentially help with colon health. Oatmeal are oats that have been ground or cut.

Fish meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from fish meat to create a protein-rich meal powder. Fish meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients. While fish is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Barley is a type of grass and a cereal grain. It is a source of calories and several nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, niacin and various minerals. Barley provides carbs, energy, fiber and other healthy nutrients for dogs. Organic barley is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Organic chicken is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. It provides nutrients like protein, fat, B vitamins, selenium and choline. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Organic chicken broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Chicken liver is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it's rich in iron, copper, vitamin A and B. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Organic chicken meal is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) are a legume that provides nutrients such as protein, fiber, folate, iron and phosphorus. They are generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Organic peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Flax (also known as linseed), is a plant that contains high levels of protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and dietary minerals. Flax is also very rich in thiamine, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. It's unique in that it is one of the best plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Oats are a cereal grain and a source of carbs, protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and dietary minerals like manganese. They are a high-quality dog food ingredient that can potentially help with colon health. Oatmeal are oats that have been ground or cut. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Oats are a cereal grain and a source of carbs, protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and dietary minerals like manganese. They are a high-quality dog food ingredient that can potentially help with colon health. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Pea protein is an extract of the pea plant. Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Organic peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if potatoes are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Sweet potatoes are a root vegetable that are rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, beta-carotene and other vitamins. They are a high-quality dog food ingredient. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Tapico is a gluten-free starch extracted from the root of the cassava plant. Because it mostly consists of carbohydrates and is low in fiber, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient. Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Organic turkey is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). Organic dog food ingredients are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and artificial preservatives. They are also not allowed to be genetically modified.

Papayas are a fruit that contains mostly water and carbohydrates and are a source of vitamin C and other nutrients. Because they are high in sugar and relatively low in nutrients other than carbs, we do not consider them a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Pea fiber is an extract made from peas and a good source of dietary fiber. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Pea flour is produced by heating or roasting peas. This allows for greater nutritional value because it gives greater biological access to protein and starch. Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Pea protein is an extract of the pea plant. Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Pea starch is an extract made from peas that is used as a binding and thickening agent during food manufacturing. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Barley is a type of grass and a cereal grain. It is a source of calories and several nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, niacin and various minerals. Barley provides carbs, energy, fiber and other healthy nutrients for dogs. Pearled means that the barley has been ground into finer pieces. Barley is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Meat by-products are animal parts other than meat that are left over at the slaughterhouse. This can include the lung, spleen, brain, liver, blood, bone, beaks, kidneys, fatty tissue, and intestines. Because there is a wide variety of animal parts companies can use, and because details don't need to be disclosed, it's tough to compare the quality of different by-products. Generally speaking, by-products can provide important nutrients for dogs but can be of lower quality than meats and meat meals. For these reasons, we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient.

Pork liver is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it's rich in iron, copper, vitamin A and B. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Pork lung is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. The lung is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals.

Pork meal is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Potatoes provide carbohydrates (mostly starch) and are a rich source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between potatoes and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if potatoes are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Potato protein is a high-protein extract of the potato plant that's generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Potato starch is a carbohydrate extract of the potato plant that's generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

While poultry is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Meat by-products are animal parts other than meat that are left over at the slaughterhouse. This can include the lung, spleen, brain, liver, blood, bone, beaks, kidneys, fatty tissue, and intestines. Because there is a wide variety of animal parts companies can use, and because details don't need to be disclosed, it's tough to compare the quality of different by-products. Generally speaking, by-products can provide important nutrients for dogs but can be of lower quality than meats and meat meals. Additionally, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For these reasons, we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient. Glucosamine is a combination of glutamine (an amino acid) and glucose (a sugar) that's present in chicken.

While poultry fat is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient. The other part of this ingredient is Mixed-Tocopherol, a natural preservative made from Vitamin E that helps keep food fresh.

Cellulose is a non-digestible fiber that's made from vegetable waste products. Besides a small amount of fiber, cellulose provides no nutritional value for your dog so we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Prawns are small aquatic crustaceans (also known as shrimp). The provide nutrients like protein, potassium and sodium. Prawns are generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Rice provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. We generally consider it a quality dog food ingredient.

Rice bran are the hard outer layers of rice. It provides calories, fiber, carbohydrates and a few other nutrients. We generally consider it a quality dog food ingredient.

Rice flour provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. We generally consider it a quality dog food ingredient.

Salmon offers one of the highest Omega-3 contents of any type of fish. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). Salmon is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Salmon broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value.

Salmon meal is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Salmon offers one of the highest Omega-3 contents of any type of fish. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Sodium Chloride is another name for salt. It's a controversial ingredient because it can potentially be used to cover up rancid meats and might be linked to kidney and heart disease as well as hypertension. We do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Soy flour is a by-product of processing soybeans. While it's high in protein, it's nutritional quality (the bioavailability of amino acids) is lower than that of meats. It is often used as a cheap protein source to boost the overall protein content of food. For these reasons, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

This is soybeans that have been heated and then ground into small pieces. While soy grits are high in protein, their nutritional quality (the bioavailability of amino acids) is lower than that of meats. For this reason, we do not consider soy grits a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Soy protein concentrate is what's left over of the soybean after removing most of the carbs. While it's high in protein, the nutritional quality (the bioavailability of amino acids) of soy protein concentrate is lower than that of meats. For this reason, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Soybean meal are ground and dried soybeans. While soy provides protein, its nutritional quality (the bioavailability of amino acids) is lower than that of meats. For this reason, we do not consider soybean meal a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Mill run are waste products (floor sweepings) left over from soybean processing. While soy provides protein, its nutritional quality (the bioavailability of amino acids) is lower than that of meats. For these reasons, we do not consider soybean mill run a high-quality dog food ingredient.

A vegetable that's a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, manganese, and iron. Spinach also provides riboflavin, vitamin B6, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and dietary fiber. It's a very nutritious plant and a generally a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Split peas are peas that are dried and crackd in half. Peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if peas are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

This is just another name for water, which doesn't add nutrients to the food but is routinely used in dog food manufacturing (especially for canned foods). It's a standard dog food ingredient.

Tapioca is a gluten-free starch extracted from the root of the cassava plant. Because it mostly consists of carbohydrates and is low in fiber, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Tapioca is a gluten-free starch extracted from the root of the cassava plant. Because it mostly consists of carbohydrates and is low in fiber, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). Turkey is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. Turkey Broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Turkey liver is an organ that contains healthy nutrients like calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it's rich in iron, copper, vitamin A and B. We consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Bison is a high-quality meat that provides protein, calcium, iron and other nutrients to dogs. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein). Bison is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value. Vegetable Broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Venison is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Venison broth is generally a healthy dog food ingredient and is made from deer meat.Broth is often used as a healthy natural flavor or instead of water when making dog food. It makes dogs more likely to eat the food and adds moisture but doesn't provide a lot of nutritional value.

Venison meal (made from deer meat) is generally a healthy dog food ingredient.Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Water doesn't add nutrients to the food but is routinely used in dog food manufacturing (especially for canned foods). It's a standard dog food ingredient.

This is just another name for water, which doesn't add nutrients to the food but is routinely used in dog food manufacturing (especially for canned foods). It's a standard dog food ingredient.

This is just another name for water, which doesn't add nutrients to the food but is routinely used in dog food manufacturing (especially for canned foods). It's a standard dog food ingredient.

Wheat is a grass and cereal grain often used in dog food. It provides protein, dietary fiber, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, B vitamins and minerals. Some dogs may develop wheat allergies, though they are a lot less common than allergies to beef, dairy and soy. The jury is still out on whether wheat is a high-quality dog food ingredient so please consult your vet if you suspect your dog may be allergic or has food sensitivities. Grain-alternatives like potatoes, peas and legumes may be linked to canine heart disease (it's too early to say this conclusively), so keep that in mind when buying foods without wheat and other grains.

Wheat flour is made by grinding wheat grains into a powder. Wheat is a grass and cereal grain often used in dog food. It provides protein, dietary fiber, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, B vitamins and minerals. Some dogs may develop wheat allergies, though they are a lot less common than allergies to beef, dairy and soy. The jury is still out on whether wheat is a high-quality dog food ingredient so please consult your vet if you suspect your dog may be allergic or has food sensitivities. Grain-alternatives like potatoes, peas and legumes may be linked to canine heart disease (it's too early to say this conclusively), so keep that in mind when buying foods without wheat and other grains.

Wheat gluten is the main protein in wheat and made by washing out the starch from the grain. Wheat is a grass and cereal grain often used in dog food. It provides protein, dietary fiber, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, B vitamins and minerals. Some dogs may develop wheat allergies, though they are a lot less common than allergies to beef, dairy and soy. The jury is still out on whether wheat is a high-quality dog food ingredient so please consult your vet if you suspect your dog may be allergic or has food sensitivities. Grain-alternatives like potatoes, peas and legumes may be linked to canine heart disease (it's too early to say this conclusively), so keep that in mind when buying foods without wheat and other grains.

White rice is regular rice that is milled to remove parts of the grain, including the husk, bran, and germ. This changes the flavor, texture and appearance of the rice and also extends its storage life. It provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. However, because important parts of the grain have been removed, white rice offers lower protein and other nutrients than whole grain rice or brown rice. Therefore, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

While fish is generally nutritious, this ingredient doesn't identify the species it comes from making it questionable and intransparent. This includes the potential that rancid, dead, dying, disabled or diseased meat sources could have been used. For that reason we do not consider this a high-quality ingredient. Raw meat contains about 75% water which is cooked off during the making of dog food. This leaves only a fraction of the protein content in the final product's weight. We recommend looking for dog foods that also include meat meals (pre-cooked meat powder that contains four times the amount of protein).

Brown rice is whole-grain rice with the inedible outer hull removed. It provides calories, complex carbohydrates and a few other nutrients to dogs. Whole brown rice (unlike white rice) still contains important parts of the grain and therefore offers higher protein and other nutrients. We generally consider it a quality dog food ingredient.

Dried eggs are a powder made by drying shell-free egg whites. Eggs are a high-quality protein source that offers excellent amino acid availability to dogs. They also provide healthy nutrients like vitamin A, calcium and iron. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient.

Whole Egg Product are shell-free eggs that have had their moisture removed. While it provides nutrients like protein, it can be made from food-industry waste products such as eggs that failed to hatch. In other words, quality can vary. Because there are better protein sources (like whole eggs or meat) we do not consider this a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Corn (also known as maize) is a cereal grain that provides carbs, protein, fat, vitamin B and other nutrients. Because corn in dog food is an inexpensive (and often feed-grade quality) ingredient, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Sorghum (also known as milo) is a starchy cereal grain plant. It offers similar nutrition to corn, is gluten-free and provides nutrients like calcium, iron and magnesium. We consider it a generally healthy dog food ingredient. Whole grain means that all three edible parts of the kernel (bran, germ, and endosperm) are kept before milling, which means more protein and nutrients are in the final product.

Corn (also known as maize) is a cereal grain that provides carbs, protein, fat, vitamin B and other nutrients. Because corn in dog food is an inexpensive (and often feed-grade quality) ingredient, we do not consider it a high-quality dog food ingredient.

Garbanzo beans (also called chickpeas) are a legume that provides nutrients such as protein, fiber, folate, iron and phosphorus. They are generally a healthy dog food ingredient.

Oats are a cereal grain and a source of carbs, protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and dietary minerals like manganese. They are a high-quality dog food ingredient that can potentially help with colon health.

Potatoes provide carbohydrates (mostly starch) and are a rich source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between potatoes and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if potatoes are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.

Spelt (also known as Dinkel or hulled wheat) is a species of wheat. It's rich in nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and dietary minerals. We generally consider it a healthy dog food ingredient.

Whole grain means that all three edible parts of the kernel (bran, germ, and endosperm) are kept before milling, which means more protein and nutrients are in the final product. Wheat is a grass and cereal grain often used in dog food. It provides protein, dietary fiber, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, B vitamins and minerals. Some dogs may develop wheat allergies, though they are a lot less common than allergies to beef, dairy and soy. The jury is still out on whether wheat is a high-quality dog food ingredient so please consult your vet if you suspect your dog may be allergic or has food sensitivities. Grain-alternatives like potatoes, peas and legumes may be linked to canine heart disease (it's too early to say this conclusively), so keep that in mind when buying foods without wheat and other grains.

Wild boar (also known as wild pig) is generally a healthy dog food ingredient. Meat meals are the result of cooking. Water is removed from meats to create a protein-rich meal powder. Meat meals contain about four times the protein meats do, so generally, they're a good source of nutrients.

Yellow peas are a good source of carbs, fiber and protein. Peas are starchy but high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc. We consider this a healthy dog food ingredient. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that there is a potential link between peas and canine heart disease. It is still too early to draw conclusions so we cannot yet say if potatoes are a generally high-quality dog food ingredient or should be avoided.