Bringing a new dog into your family, whether a playful puppy or an energetic adult, is an exciting time. Ensuring they receive the right nutrition is paramount to their health, happiness, and longevity. Valu-Pak Free 28-20 Dry Dog Food, presented in a distinctive black bag, is specifically formulated to meet the high demands of active dogs and growing puppies, offering a balanced blend of essential nutrients in every bite. This guide delves into the nutritional profile, benefits, and feeding recommendations of Valu-Pak Free 28-20, empowering you to make an informed choice for your canine companion.
Valu-Pak Free 28-20 is a premium, high-protein (28%) and high-fat (20%) dry dog food designed to fuel your dog’s active lifestyle. Its carefully selected ingredients support overall well-being, addressing critical aspects of health such as skin and coat condition, joint mobility, digestive function, and immune system strength. The formula is a testament to quality, utilizing animal proteins as primary ingredients and incorporating natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, vital for joint health. Furthermore, the inclusion of Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids contributes to a lustrous coat and healthy skin. A significant advantage for many pet owners is that this formula is free from common allergens and fillers like corn, wheat, soy, and gluten, as well as artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it a wholesome choice for dogs with sensitivities.
This formula is proudly made in the USA by Specialty Feeds, a family-owned company with over five decades of experience in pet nutrition, underscoring a commitment to quality and a deep understanding of canine dietary needs.
Key Benefits of Valu-Pak Free 28-20
The thoughtful formulation of Valu-Pak Free 28-20 translates into numerous benefits for your dog:
- Energy and Muscle Support: With 28% protein and 20% fat, this food provides the necessary energy and building blocks for muscle maintenance and repair, crucial for active and working dogs.
- All Life Stages Formula: Suitable for dogs of all ages, from puppies (with a specific exclusion for large breed puppies) to seniors, this food adapts to changing nutritional requirements throughout a dog’s life.
- Joint Health: Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin are included to support healthy joint function and cartilage development, particularly beneficial for active breeds and senior dogs.
- Skin and Coat Health: A balanced ratio of Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids promotes a healthy skin barrier and contributes to a shiny, healthy coat.
- Immune and Digestive Support: Ingredients are chosen to support a robust immune system and a healthy digestive tract, ensuring efficient nutrient absorption and overall well-being.
- Free From Common Allergens: The absence of corn, wheat, soy, gluten, and artificial additives makes this a suitable option for dogs with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients.
- Quality American-Made Ingredients: Sourced and produced in the USA, featuring chicken and pork meal proteins as primary sources of animal nutrition.
Ideal Canine Candidates for Valu-Pak Free 28-20
This particular formula is well-suited for a variety of dogs:
- Puppies: Ideal for puppies of all breeds, except those destined to become large breeds (over 70 lbs as adults), ensuring appropriate growth without excessive calorie intake.
- Active Adult Dogs: Perfect for dogs that lead an energetic lifestyle, whether through regular exercise, sports, or play.
- Senior Dogs: Can benefit seniors who maintain a higher activity level or require extra support for weight, joint, or coat health.
- Working or Performance Dogs: Provides the sustained energy and muscle support needed for dogs involved in demanding activities.
- All Breed Sizes: Designed to cater to the nutritional needs of dogs across the spectrum of breed sizes.
Guaranteed Analysis: A Nutritional Breakdown
Understanding the guaranteed analysis helps in appreciating the nutritional density of Valu-Pak Free 28-20:
| Nutrient | Min/Max | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Protein | min | 28.0% |
| Crude Fat | min | 20.0% |
| Crude Fiber | max | 3.5% |
| Moisture | max | 10.0% |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acid* | min | 2.20% |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acid* | min | 0.30% |
*Not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.
This food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages, with the noted exception for the growth of large-size dogs. The calculated Metabolized Energy (ME) is 3,835 kcal/kg, or approximately 445 kcal per standard 8 oz measuring cup.
Ingredients: The Foundation of Good Health
The ingredient list for Valu-Pak Free 28-20 reflects a commitment to quality and nutritional efficacy:
Chicken By-Product Meal (source of glucosamine & chondroitin), Pork Meal (source of glucosamine & chondroitin), Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Dried Green Peas, Rice Bran, Dried Beet Pulp (sugar removed), Ground Flaxseed, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Hydrated Sodium Calcium Aluminosilicate, Choline Chloride, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Iodate (source of iodine), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Cobalt Carbonate, Folic Acid.
Feeding Directions: Tailoring to Your Dog’s Needs
Proper feeding is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Valu-Pak provides guidelines based on your dog’s weight, but individual needs may vary. Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.
- Toy Breeds (up to 12 lb): ½ – 1¼ cups per day
- Small Breeds (12–25 lb): 1¼ – 2 cups per day
- Medium Breeds (26–50 lb): 2 – 3¼ cups per day
- Large Breeds (51–100 lb): 3¼ – 4¾ cups per day
- Extra Large Breeds (100+ lb): 4¾ cups, plus an additional ⅓ cup for every 10 lbs over 100 lbs.
(Note: A standard 8 oz measuring cup is used.)
Transitioning to Valu-Pak
Introducing a new food should be gradual to prevent digestive upset. Follow this schedule:
- Days 1–3: 25% Valu-Pak / 75% old food
- Days 4–6: 50% Valu-Pak / 50% old food
- Days 7–9: 75% Valu-Pak / 25% old food
- Day 10+: 100% Valu-Pak
Special Considerations: Puppies, Pregnancy, and Nursing
- For Puppies: Begin feeding at 4 weeks of age. Moisten food and offer it three times daily until 6 months old, then twice daily until 9 months. Dry food can be offered free-choice. Avoid overfeeding to prevent rapid growth or excessive weight gain.
- Pregnancy and Nursing: Feed to maintain optimal body condition. Food intake may increase up to four times the normal amount during lactation. Adjust amounts based on individual needs and veterinary recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Valu-Pak Free 28-20 complete and balanced?
Yes, it meets the AAFCO nutritional requirements for all life stages, with the exception of the growth of large breed puppies (those expected to be 70 lbs or more as adults).
Does this food contain artificial additives?
No, this formula is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It is naturally preserved with mixed tocopherols, a form of Vitamin E.
Is this food grain-free?
No, Valu-Pak Free 28-20 is not grain-free. It contains beneficial whole grains such as brown rice, sorghum, and rice bran. However, it is free from corn, wheat, and soy.
Is it suitable for senior dogs?
Yes, it can be an excellent choice for senior dogs, especially those who remain active or need nutritional support for maintaining body weight, joint health, or coat condition.
By choosing Valu-Pak Free 28-20, you are providing your dog with a high-quality, nutrient-dense food that supports their health and vitality throughout their life stages. Always consult with your veterinarian to ensure the best dietary plan for your individual pet’s needs.
