Pure Balance offers a range of dry dog food recipes, with an average rating of 4.5 stars, indicating a highly recommended product line. This review focuses on the dry formulations, analyzing their ingredients, nutritional content, and overall quality to help pet owners make informed decisions. The brand’s commitment to providing wholesome nutrition is evident in its ingredient choices and transparent labeling.
Recipe and Label Analysis
The Pure Balance dry dog food line includes several recipes, each designed to meet specific needs. The “Pure Balance Chicken and Brown Rice” recipe was selected for a detailed analysis as it is representative of the brand’s offerings.
Pure Balance Chicken and Brown Rice: Ingredient Breakdown
The primary ingredient in this formulation is chicken, a quality source of animal protein. While fresh chicken contains a significant amount of water, which reduces its weight after cooking, chicken meal, the second ingredient, is a concentrated source of protein, offering nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
Brown rice follows as a complex carbohydrate that is generally easy to digest and provides energy, though its nutritional value beyond calories is modest. Dried peas are another carbohydrate source, rich in dietary fiber and contributing to the overall protein content. Pea protein, derived from peas after the starch has been removed, is also present. While it boasts high protein content, its biological value is typically lower than that of meat.
Beet pulp, a source of fiber, is included. While some view it as a filler, others recognize its benefits for intestinal health and blood sugar regulation. Its inclusion in reasonable amounts is generally considered acceptable. Chicken fat is a quality ingredient, providing essential omega-6 fatty acids.
Other ingredients include brewers rice, which offers caloric energy but limited nutritional value, and natural flavor. Flaxseed is a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber when ground.
Notable exceptions further down the ingredient list include sunflower oil, which is a good source of omega-6 fatty acids but lacks omega-3s. Dried egg product, while variable in quality, is highly digestible and biologically valuable. The presence of chelated minerals indicates a higher level of absorption for these essential nutrients. However, sodium selenite is noted as a controversial and potentially inferior source of selenium compared to more natural alternatives.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredient profile, Pure Balance Chicken and Brown Rice appears to be an above-average dry dog food. The estimated dry matter content shows approximately 30% protein, 17% fat, and 45% carbohydrates. Compared to the brand’s average, these figures are consistent, suggesting a uniform approach to nutrition across the product line. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 60%. These nutrient levels, even accounting for plant-based protein sources, indicate a kibble containing a substantial amount of meat.
Pure Balance Dog Food Recall History
As of January 2026, there are no recorded recalls for Pure Balance dog food products.
Our Rating of Pure Balance Dog Food
Pure Balance is classified as a grain-inclusive dry dog food. It utilizes a significant amount of named meat meal as its primary animal protein source. This commitment to quality ingredients and balanced nutrition earns the brand a rating of 4.5 stars.
Highly Recommended
Compare Pure Balance Dog Food
Pure Balance dry dog food formulations are a strong choice for pet owners seeking high-quality nutrition. The brand’s focus on named meat as the primary ingredient, combined with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients, positions it favorably among the top-rated dog foods.
A Final Word
The Dog Food Advisor provides impartial reviews, funded in part by referral fees from online retailers. Pure Balance dry dog food represents a highly recommended option for pet owners, offering a well-balanced and nutritious diet for dogs.
