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There is no shortage of important decisions for dog owners to make. However, none may be more significant than the type of food to feed your dog. The right dog food will support your dog’s physical health and give you peace of mind.
For over 30 years, Natural Balance has produced food that keeps dogs happy, healthy, and full of energy. Founded by actor and animal welfare advocate Dick Van Patten in 1989, Natural Balance offers a range of recipes for every dog. You can find a Natural Balance formula that works for your furry friend regardless of age, size, lifestyle, or dietary restrictions.
Natural Balance makes wet and dry dog food in formulas that cater to all sizes and ages as well as those that target specific types of dogs. Our guide takes a close look at the brand so you can make the best choice for you and your dog. If you’re ready to give Natural Balance dog food a try, take a look at our top picks.
Natural Balance offers different lines of dog food, some that are more general and some that are specific to dietary needs or goals.
Most Natural Balance dry food formulas come in three sizes. Small bags run four to five pounds, while medium bags range from 10 to 15 pounds. Large bags run from 24 to 30 pounds. Buying larger bags of dog food costs more upfront but has a better price-per-pound ratio than buying smaller bags. Just make sure your dog likes the formula before you invest.
Natural Balance wet food often comes in packs of 12 but can also be purchased individually. Wet food comes in 6- and 13-ounce cans.
If you don’t have any old food to use to transition to a new Natural Balance formula, then feed a smaller amount of food over the course of a few days. Giving too much new food instantly can upset a dog’s stomach.
Natural Balance offers an assortment of tasty treats for your furry friends. With no artificial flavors or colors, these treats can be used to boost a dog’s energy or as a sweet reward for a job well done. Natural Balance’s line of treats includes limited-ingredient chewy and crunchy options as well as treats tailored to certain types of dogs or diets.
Dog bowls: MidWest Stainless Steel Snap’y Fit Dog Bowl
You’ll need a few dog bowls come chowtime. We like this stainless steel option from MidWest that can snap to a crate for convenient feeding.
Elevated dog bowls: Pawfect Pets Premium Elevated Dog Diner
For larger dogs, you may want to opt for a higher feeding setup. This elevated dog bowl set by Pawfect Pets is durable, effective, and minimalist.
Slow feeder dog bowls: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl
If your dog quickly inhales all her food, you may want to think about a slow feeder bowl. This option from Outward Hound compels your dog to take her time when eating meals.
KONG dog toys: KONG Wobbler Dog Toy
For dispensing treats, we recommend the popular KONG Wobbler, which will not only excite your dog but make him work for his reward, too.
For under $20, you can purchase any small bag of Natural Balance dry dog food as well as any bag of treats. Medium bags in the Vegetarian line are also available, as are some 12-packs of 13-ounce wet food.
For between $20 and $40, you can find most medium bags of Natural Balance dry dog food. However, certain premium ingredients, like venison, push medium-size bags into the expensive range. Most 12-packs of 13-ounce wet food are also in this range.
For $40 to $60-plus, you’ll find large bags of Natural Balance dry dog food and a handful of medium-size bags in the Limited Ingredient Diets line.
Natural Balance does not add any coloring dyes or agents to their food. As a result, the kibble can be a variety of colors based on the meat or vegetables it’s made from.
A. Puppies often require more food than adult dogs as they are growing quickly and thus need more vitamins, minerals, and protein. However, they don’t necessarily need a formula that is targeted specifically for puppies. While Natural Balance does offer both dry and wet food formulas that are meant for puppies, they also have a wide range of options in all lines that are satisfactory for dogs of all ages. The choice is up to you, your dog, and your veterinarian.
A. Your veterinarian can inform you of any allergies or sensitivities your dog has, which can develop over time and with age. Limited-ingredient diets may be better for older dogs and can help prevent excessive itching, scratching, or shedding. More serious problems arising from your dog’s diet can be vomiting or diarrhea. Consult with your vet on the best diet for your dog.
A. Generally, dry dog food is more popular among pet owners. Dry food is easy to store, lasts a long time, and tends to be cheaper. However, some dogs prefer the smells and tastes of wet food, and they may benefit from the extra water to keep them hydrated. Dry kibble, though, aids in dental and gum health, keeping teeth cleaner. Some owners and dogs prefer one type of food over the other, while others mix a bit of both. Once again, consult your vet with any issues.
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