Star Pro Dog Food, a brand reviewed by Dog Food Advisor, has received a second-lowest tier rating of 2.5 stars, indicating a below-average quality for its dry dog food products. This assessment is based on a detailed analysis of ingredients, nutritional content, and industry standards. While the brand offers a range of dry foods, this review primarily focuses on the Star Pro Original Formula to represent the entire line. This comprehensive review delves into the specifics of what makes Star Pro fall short of higher recommendations.
Star Pro Dog Food Product Line Overview
The Star Pro Dog Food product line encompasses six dry dog food formulas, each catering to different life stages and activity levels. These include:
- Star Pro Puppy Formula (rated 3.5 stars)
- Star Pro Original Formula (rated 2.5 stars)
- Star Pro Professional Formula (rated 2 stars)
- Star Pro High Energy Formula (rated 2 stars)
- Star Pro Maintenance Formula (rated 2 stars)
- Star Pro Performance Formula (rated 3.5 stars)
Each recipe’s AAFCO nutrient profile (Growth, Maintenance, All Life Stages, Supplemental, or Unspecified) is considered in the evaluation. The overall rating suggests significant concerns across several of the formulas, with the Original Formula highlighted for closer inspection.
Recipe and Label Analysis: Star Pro Original Formula
A deep dive into the Star Pro Original Formula reveals key ingredients and their estimated nutritional contributions on a dry matter basis:
- Protein: 30%
- Fat: 13.3%
- Carbohydrates: 48.7%
Compared to the brand’s average protein content of 29% and a mean fat level of 18%, the Original Formula shows slightly higher protein and lower fat. However, the estimated carbohydrate content of approximately 49% for this formula, and 45% for the overall product line, is considered high. The fat-to-protein ratio stands at about 63%.
Ingredient Breakdown
The ingredient list for Star Pro Original Formula begins with chicken by-product meal. While this ingredient is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, it’s derived from slaughterhouse waste and can vary significantly in quality. By-product meals are concentrated sources of protein, but their nutritional value depends on the raw materials used.
Following chicken by-product meal are corn and wheat, both inexpensive and controversial cereal grains that offer modest nutritional value to dogs. These are followed by meat and bone meal, an anonymous ingredient that can include various animal tissues and bone. Its digestibility can be lower than other meat meals due to higher ash and lower essential amino acid content.
Chicken fat is listed as the fifth ingredient, a quality fat source rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Beet pulp, a high-fiber ingredient, is also present, which, while debated, can offer intestinal health benefits in reasonable amounts. Brewers rice, a by-product of rice milling, and corn gluten meal, a plant-based protein source, further contribute to the carbohydrate and protein content.
Other notable ingredients include fish meal, a protein concentrate, and flaxseed, a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. The inclusion of fish oil is also positive, providing beneficial EPA and DHA.
However, the review notes the absence of probiotics and the use of minerals that do not appear to be chelated, potentially reducing their absorbability. Most concerning is the inclusion of menadione, a controversial form of vitamin K linked to adverse health effects, which raises questions about its necessity in canine diets. Understanding ingredient sourcing and quality is crucial for pet owners.
Overall Assessment and Recommendation
Based on its ingredient profile, Star Pro Dog Food, particularly the Original Formula, is classified as a below-average dry dog food. The reliance on unnamed by-product meals, controversial grains, and menadione, alongside a high carbohydrate content, leads to its second-lowest tier rating. The brand is considered grain-inclusive and utilizes a moderate amount of named and unnamed by-product meals as its primary animal protein sources. Consequently, Dog Food Advisor does not recommend this brand.
Star Pro Dog Food Recall History
As of the last update, there are no reported dog food recalls specifically linked to the Star Pro product line since 2009. However, this does not negate the concerns raised by the ingredient analysis and overall product rating.
Comparison with Recommended Brands
For pet owners seeking higher-quality options, it’s advisable to compare Star Pro with brands that consistently receive higher ratings and demonstrate a commitment to transparent ingredient sourcing and nutritional excellence. Exploring alternatives that prioritize named meat ingredients and avoid controversial additives is recommended. Comparing different dog food brands can help owners make informed decisions.
Sources
- Association of American Feed Control Officials, 2008 Edition
- Shirley RB and Parsons CM, Effect of Ash Content on Protein Quality of Meat and Bone Meal, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Poultry Science, 2001 80: 626-632
- Association of American Feed Control Officials
