Are you searching for a high-quality dry dog food that balances nutrition with natural ingredients? Earthborn Holistic Ancient Grains & Superfoods Unrefined Dog Food stands out as a top choice for pet parents seeking premium options. This grain-inclusive line earns a perfect 5-star rating from experts, formulated for all life stages with real meat as the first ingredient and wholesome ancient grains for sustained energy.
Earthborn Holistic Unrefined Dog Food bag showing roasted rabbit recipe
Our Verdict on Earthborn Holistic Unrefined Dog Food
The Earthborn Holistic Unrefined range includes three recipes, each scoring 5 stars for their superior ingredient quality and nutrient profiles. These formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, making them suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors alike. Pet nutritionists highlight the use of unrefined superfoods and ancient grains, which provide digestible carbs without excessive processing.
| Product | Rating | AAFCO Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Rabbit | ★★★★★ | All Life Stages |
| Roasted Lamb | ★★★★★ | All Life Stages |
| Smoked Salmon | ★★★★★ | All Life Stages |
This line prioritizes novel proteins like rabbit and salmon, ideal for dogs with sensitivities to common meats such as chicken or beef.
Detailed Recipe and Label Analysis
To evaluate the Earthborn Holistic Unrefined Dog Food line, we analyzed the Roasted Rabbit recipe in depth. This representative formula lists rabbit as the #1 ingredient, followed by barley, oats, and nutrient-dense veggies.
Key Ingredients in Roasted Rabbit Recipe
- Rabbit (primary protein source)
- Barley and oats (ancient grains for fiber and energy)
- Lamb meal (concentrated protein)
- Pumpkin and butternut squash (rich in beta-carotene and fiber)
- Sunflower oil (preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols)
- Quinoa, chia, and flaxseed (superfoods for omega fatty acids)
- Fruits and veggies like apples, blueberries, carrots, cranberries, and spinach
- Added taurine, L-carnitine, chelated minerals, and probiotics
Estimated dry matter nutrient content:
- Protein: 27.7%
- Fat: 17.4%
- Carbohydrates: 38.3%
- Fiber: 8%
| Nutrient Basis | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guaranteed Analysis | 24% | 15% | N/A |
| Dry Matter | 27% | 17% | 49% |
| Calorie Weighted | 23% | 35% | 42% |
These levels align with expert recommendations from veterinary nutritionists for balanced canine diets, supporting muscle maintenance and healthy weight.
In-Depth Ingredients Breakdown
Rabbit leads as a lean, highly digestible meat packed with all 10 essential amino acids dogs need. Unlike fresh meats, it offers complete nutrition without excess water weight. Barley and oats provide B-vitamins, minerals, and soluble fiber to promote gut health—crucial for dogs prone to digestive issues.
Lamb meal boosts protein density by up to 300% compared to fresh lamb, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery. Pumpkin and butternut squash add antioxidants and prebiotics, aiding immunity and regularity. Sunflower oil delivers omega-6s, though pairing it with flaxseed and chia balances the fatty acid profile.
Quinoa stands out as a gluten-free pseudo-grain with 12-18% protein and high fiber. Dried egg and salmon meal further enhance the amino acid spectrum. Taurine supports heart health, especially vital in grain-inclusive formulas where deficiencies are rare but possible.
Probiotics from dried fermentation products improve microbiome balance, while chelated minerals enhance absorption. Note: Sodium selenite is used for selenium, a less bioavailable form than yeast-bound alternatives, but overall formulation remains strong. Dried yeast offers 45% protein and immune benefits, though monitor for rare allergies.
Close-up of Earthborn Holistic Unrefined ingredients like rabbit, grains, and superfoods
Nutrient Profile and Comparison
On a dry matter basis, Earthborn Holistic Unrefined Dog Food delivers near-average protein (27.7%), fat (17.4%), and below-average carbs (37.7%) versus typical kibbles. The 63% fat-to-protein ratio indicates meat-forward nutrition, even accounting for plant proteins in flax and yeast.
This profile suits active dogs, with calorie distribution favoring fat for energy (35%) over carbs (42%). Compared to grain-free options, it avoids legume-heavy formulas linked to DCM concerns by the FDA. Pet nutritionist Laura Ward verifies compliance with AAFCO growth, maintenance, and all-life-stages needs.
Recall History and Safety
As of November 2025, Earthborn Holistic Unrefined has no recorded recalls, underscoring its manufacturing reliability. The brand maintains stringent quality controls, a key factor in its authoritative reputation among holistic pet foods.
Final Rating and Recommendations
Earthborn Holistic Ancient Grains & Superfoods Unrefined Dog Food earns 5 stars for its clean, meat-rich recipes using named animal proteins and minimal fillers. Ideal for discerning owners prioritizing whole foods, it’s a highly recommended choice over average commercial kibbles.
Consult your veterinarian before switching, especially for dogs with health conditions. For grain-free alternatives, explore Earthborn’s Primitive Natural line.
Sources:
- Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) meat definitions (2008).
- Dog Food Advisor nutrient analysis methodology.
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