Tops Dog Food receives a mid-tier rating of 3.5 stars from Dog Food Advisor, based on an analysis of its ingredients and nutritional content. This report, last updated on October 6, 2023, evaluates the dry dog food options within the Tops product line. It’s important to note that this specific report is no longer actively updated by The Advisor due to low reader interest.
The Tops Dog Food product line comprises five dry dog food formulas, each with an AAFCO nutrient profile indicated. These include Tops Plus [A], Tops Hi Pro [A], Tops 21 Protein (3 stars) [A], Tops Sustain (3 stars) [A], and Tops Supreme (2.5 stars) [A]. For this comprehensive review, Tops Hi Pro was chosen as the representative product for the entire line.
Tops Hi Pro: Ingredient Analysis
Tops Hi Pro features a dry matter protein content of approximately 28.9%, fat at 12.2%, and carbohydrates at 50.9%. The primary ingredients are pork meal, ground whole corn, soft grain whole wheat, rice bran, and soybean meal. Chicken fat and chicken by-product meal are also present, along with corn gluten meal and beet pulp.
Pork meal, the first ingredient, is a concentrated source of protein. Corn and wheat, while providing energy, are considered controversial due to their lower nutritional value for dogs compared to meat. Rice bran is a beneficial fiber-rich by-product. Soybean meal, a by-product of soybean oil production, contributes to the total protein content but has a lower biological value than meat.
Chicken fat is a quality ingredient, rich in essential omega-6 fatty acids. Chicken by-product meal, while derived from slaughterhouse waste, is a meat concentrate and its quality can vary. Corn gluten meal also boosts protein content but has a lower biological value than meat. Beet pulp is a high-fiber ingredient with debated benefits for intestinal health and blood sugar.
Concerns arise from the absence of probiotics, the potential for less absorbable minerals (as they are not chelated), and the inclusion of menadione, a controversial form of vitamin K linked to potential toxicity and adverse health effects.
Overall Tops Dog Food Review
Based on its ingredient list, Tops Dog Food is categorized as an average dry dog food product. The brand’s product line, on average, shows a protein content of 27%, a fat level of 16%, and carbohydrate content around 50%. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 60%.
While the protein content is above average, the fat and carbohydrate levels are comparable to typical dry dog foods. Considering the protein derived from soybean and corn gluten meals, the formulation suggests a moderate amount of meat.
Ultimately, Tops is a grain-inclusive dry dog food that utilizes a moderate amount of named meat meal as its primary animal protein source. This leads to its recommended 3.5-star rating.
For those seeking superior dry dog food options, exploring our report on the Best Dry Dog Foods is recommended.
Tops Dog Food Recall History
As of the last update, there have been no reported dog food recalls directly associated with the Tops product line since 2009.
Notes and Updates
This report is no longer actively updated by The Dog Food Advisor due to low reader interest.
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Sources
“Last Update” field at the end of this review reflects the date this article was last reviewed.
A Final Word
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