Are you searching for a reliable limited ingredient dog food option for your furry friend? Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food, particularly the dry formulas, offers simplified recipes designed for dogs with sensitivities. This review dives deep into the 21-recipe lineup, averaging 3.5 stars across the board, based on detailed analysis of ingredients, nutrients, and overall quality. Whether your dog needs grain-free or grain-inclusive options, we’ll break it down to help you decide.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food review
Backed by experts like founder Mike Sagman, senior researcher Karan French, and pet nutritionist Laura Ward, this evaluation ensures trustworthy insights for pet parents. Ratings range from 2.5 to 4.5 stars, with standout recipes like Salmon and Brown Rice earning top marks.
For those exploring fresh alternatives, check out reviews of the farmers dog.
Our Verdict
The Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry dog food range earns an overall 3.5-star rating. This reflects a mix of grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes formulated for maintenance, growth, and all life stages. Most include named meat sources as primary proteins, making them suitable for dogs prone to allergies or digestive issues.
Here’s a breakdown of all 21 recipes, including our star ratings and AAFCO nutrient profiles (G: Growth/puppy, M: Maintenance/adult, A: All Life Stages, U: Unspecified):
| Product | Rating | AAFCO |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Duck and Potato Puppy | 4 stars | A |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Duck and Potato | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Lamb and Brown Rice | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Duck and Brown Rice | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon and Brown Rice | 4.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon and Brown Rice Puppy | 4 stars | A |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken and Brown Rice Puppy | 4.5 stars | A |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon and Sweet Potato | 4 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Sweet Potato and Bison | 2.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Sweet Potato and Venison | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Duck and Potato Small Breed Bites | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Lamb and Brown Rice Large Breed | 4 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Lamb and Brown Rice Puppy | 3.5 stars | A |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken and Sweet Potato | 3 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken and Brown Rice | 4 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Lamb and Brown Rice Small Breed | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Chicken and Sweet Potato Small Breed Bites | 3 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Beef and Brown Rice | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Vegetarian Small Breed Bites | Unspecified | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Beef and Brown Rice Small Breed | 3.5 stars | M |
| Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Vegetarian | Unspecified | M |
High performers like Chicken and Brown Rice Puppy shine with quality proteins, while lower-rated ones like Sweet Potato and Bison lag due to ingredient concerns.
Recipe and Label Analysis
We analyzed Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain Free Sweet Potato and Venison as a representative recipe. This grain-free formula targets adult maintenance.
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content:
- Protein: 22.2%
- Fat: 11.1%
- Carbohydrates: 58.7%
Key ingredients: Sweet potatoes, venison, potatoes, pea protein, potato protein, canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), brewers dried yeast, dicalcium phosphate, natural flavor, salmon oil, flaxseed, and more. Fiber is estimated at 5% on a dry matter basis.
| Nutrient | Guaranteed Analysis | Dry Matter Basis | Calorie Weighted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 20% | 22% | 21% |
| Fat | 10% | 11% | 25% |
| Carbs | N/A | 59% | 54% |
This profile positions it as a moderate-energy kibble with balanced macros for everyday feeding.
If you’re comparing to fresh options, see reviews on farmer’s dog food.
Ingredients Analysis
Sweet potato leads as a gluten-free carb source rich in fiber and beta carotene, ideal for sensitive stomachs. Venison follows, providing novel protein, though cooking reduces its weight significantly.
Potatoes add digestible carbs but limited nutrition beyond calories. Pea protein and potato protein boost protein levels (over 80% protein content) but have lower biological value than meat, potentially inflating label protein without premium meat quality.
Canola oil offers omega-3s but may derive from GM rapeseed and is less bioavailable than fish oil. Brewers dried yeast provides minerals and B-vitamins; while controversial for allergies or bloat risks in some dogs, it’s nutritious for most.
Flaxseed delivers plant-based omega-3s and fiber (19% protein), salmon oil enhances EPA/DHA, and taurine supports heart health—crucial in grain-free diets. Chelated minerals improve absorption, but sodium selenite is a less optimal selenium form. No probiotics noted, a minor drawback for gut health.
Overall, plant proteins and carbs temper meat content, making it average for limited ingredient claims.
For breed-specific needs, explore reviews on the farmer’s dog food.
Nutrient Analysis
On a dry matter basis, this recipe shows 22% protein, 11% fat, and 59% carbs—below average protein and fat, above-average carbs compared to typical dry kibbles (brand averages: 25% protein, 12% fat, 55% carbs). Fat-to-protein ratio: 49%.
Protein boosters like peas, potatoes, yeast, and flax suggest moderate meat inclusion. Suitable for weight management but less ideal for high-energy dogs.
Recall History
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry has no recorded recalls through November 2025. Check the full Dog Food Advisor recall database for updates.
Final Rating and Recommendations
3.5 stars – Recommended with reservations. Strengths include limited ingredients and variety for sensitivities; concerns involve plant-heavy proteins and average meat quality. Consult your vet for allergies.
Compare to top brands via our tools. Looking for premium fresh food? Read reviews of the farmer’s dog food.
Sources
- Dried Potato Product
- AAFCO Nutrient Profiles
- Dog Food Advisor Ingredient Guides
Prioritize your dog’s needs—limited ingredient diets like Natural Balance can help, but monitor for optimal health. Share your experience in the comments!
