Purina Puppy Chow, a prominent name in the dog food market, offers a range of dry kibble specifically formulated for puppies. This review delves into the “Purina Puppy Chow Complete” recipe to provide a comprehensive analysis for pet owners. Dog Food Advisor provides an impartial assessment, helping you make informed decisions about your puppy’s nutrition.
Recipe and Label Analysis
The Purina Puppy Chow Complete recipe is analyzed for its nutritional content and ingredient quality. The estimated dry matter nutrient content reveals a protein level of 31.3%, fat at 13.6%, and carbohydrates at 47.1%. The primary ingredients include whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, and corn gluten meal. While corn provides energy, its nutritional value is considered moderate for dogs. Chicken by-product meal, derived from rendered slaughterhouse waste, is a meat concentrate with a protein content significantly higher than fresh chicken, though its quality can vary. Corn gluten meal, a byproduct of corn processing, contributes to the protein content but is expected to have a lower biological value than meat sources.
Beef fat, used as a preservative, is considered a quality ingredient. However, soybean meal, another ingredient, is a byproduct of soybean oil production and, like corn gluten meal, is expected to have a lower biological value than meat. Barley is a carbohydrate source that provides fiber and nutrients. Ground rice is also included, serving as a gluten-free substitute. While raw chicken is listed, its moisture content means it likely accounts for a smaller portion of the finished product after processing.
Notable exceptions in the ingredient list include fish oil, a source of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are highly bioavailable. Soybean oil is present, though it’s higher in omega-6 and lacks omega-3s. The minerals are not listed as chelated, potentially making them less absorbable. Garlic oil is included, which, while having claimed health benefits, has been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs. Artificial coloring is used, which is unnecessary as dogs do not perceive food color. Sodium selenite, a controversial form of selenium, and menadione, a controversial form of vitamin K linked to toxicity, are also present. The presence of these ingredients, particularly artificial coloring and controversial forms of vitamins and minerals, raises concerns about the overall quality of the food.
Ingredient Analysis
A deeper look at the ingredients reveals potential drawbacks. The high reliance on corn and corn gluten meal, along with soybean meal, suggests that the “named meat” content might be lower than perceived, as these plant-based ingredients can artificially inflate the reported protein percentage. While chicken by-product meal can be a good source of protein, its variability in quality means it’s not always a premium ingredient. The inclusion of artificial coloring is also a negative point, as it serves no nutritional purpose for the dog and is primarily for human appeal.
Nutrient Analysis
On a dry matter basis, Purina Puppy Chow Complete shows above-average protein (31%), below-average fat (14%), and near-average carbohydrates (47%). Compared to other dry dog foods, this profile, combined with the protein-boosting effect of corn gluten and soybean meals, indicates a moderate amount of meat in the formulation.
Purina Dog Food Recall History
Purina has a history of dog food recalls. It is important for consumers to stay informed about these recalls to ensure the safety of their pets.
Our Rating of Purina Dog Food
Purina Puppy Chow is rated as Somewhat Recommended with a score of 2.5 out of 5 stars. It is a grain-inclusive dry dog food that utilizes a moderate amount of named by-product meals as its primary animal protein source. For those seeking alternatives, reviews of other Purina products, such as Purina Healthy Morsels canned dog food, are available.
A Final Word
Purina Puppy Chow Complete offers a budget-friendly option for puppy nutrition. However, the ingredient list, featuring corn as a primary component and including artificial coloring and controversial additives, warrants careful consideration. While it meets basic nutritional needs for puppies, owners seeking higher quality, more natural ingredients might explore other options. Consulting with a veterinarian can provide personalized recommendations for your puppy’s specific dietary requirements.
