The Wellness CORE Grain-Free dry dog food line has earned a commendable 5-star rating from Dog Food Advisor, indicating a high-quality product designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs. This review delves into the specifics of the Wellness CORE Grain-Free dry recipes, analyzing their ingredients, nutritional content, and overall suitability for canine companions.
Recipe and Label Analysis
The Wellness CORE Grain-Free product range encompasses 12 distinct recipes. Each recipe has been awarded the highest rating of 5 stars. The table below details each product, its rating, and its alignment with AAFCO nutrient profiles for different life stages: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, or Supplemental.
| Product Line | Rating | AAFCO |
|---|---|---|
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Lamb & Lamb Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Puppy Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe | 5 | G |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Age Advantage Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Ocean Whitefish, Herring Meal & Salmon Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Wild Game Duck, Lamb Meal, Wild Boar & Rabbit Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Adult Original Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Adult Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Healthy Weight Adult Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Puppy Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Salmon Meal Recipe | 5 | G |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Adult Healthy Weight Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Puppy Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal & Turkey Meal Recipe | 5 | M |
For a detailed examination, the “Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe” was selected as a representative sample of the entire product line.
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content:
- Protein: 37.3%
- Fat: 18%
- Carbohydrates: 32.2%
The guaranteed analysis typically lists 34% protein and 17% fat.
Ingredients Analysis
The primary ingredient in this recipe is deboned turkey, a quality protein source. Following this are turkey meal and chicken meal, both considered high-quality meat concentrates rich in protein. The fourth ingredient, dried ground potato, is a dehydrated carbohydrate source.
Lentils and peas are the fifth and sixth ingredients, respectively. These legumes provide valuable carbohydrates and natural fiber. However, it’s important to note that both lentils and peas contain approximately 25% protein, which influences the overall protein calculation.
Chicken fat, the seventh ingredient, is a good source of essential omega-6 fatty acids. Beet pulp, listed as the eighth ingredient, is a source of dietary fiber. While some view it as a filler, others recognize its benefits for intestinal health and blood sugar regulation.
Flaxseed, the ninth ingredient, offers beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber, though it also contributes to the protein content.
Further down the ingredient list, several commendable additions are present:
- Salmon oil: Provides highly bioavailable EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids.
- Taurine: An essential amino acid important for heart health, particularly beneficial for dogs on grain-free diets.
- Chicory root: Contains inulin, a prebiotic that supports healthy gut bacteria.
The recipe also includes chelated minerals, which are more easily absorbed by the body, and rosemary extract, green tea extract, and spearmint extract as natural preservatives and antioxidants.
However, the inclusion of sodium selenite, a controversial form of selenium, is noted. While it provides selenium, the more natural form found in selenium yeast is generally preferred.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients, Wellness CORE Grain-Free dog food appears to be an above-average dry product. The estimated dry matter protein content is 37.3%, fat is 18%, and carbohydrates are approximately 32.2%. Compared to the average dry dog food, this line offers higher protein and slightly lower carbohydrates.
The fat-to-protein ratio is about 42%, suggesting a kibble formulation with a significant meat content, even when accounting for the protein contributions from plant-based ingredients like peas, lentils, and flaxseed.
Wellness Dog Food Recall History
As of January 2026, there have been no dog food recalls specifically associated with Wellness CORE Grain-Free dry dog food.
Our Rating of Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dog Food
Wellness CORE Grain-Free dry dog food is highly recommended, earning a solid 5 stars. This rating is primarily due to its formulation, which prominently features named meat meals as the main source of animal protein. This commitment to high-quality protein sources makes it an excellent choice for many dogs. For those interested in the brand’s wet food offerings, a review of Wellness Core Canned Dog Food is also available.
***** (5/5 Stars)
Highly Recommended
Compare Wellness Core Grain-Free Dog Food
This product line stands out among The Dog Food Advisor’s most recommended brands due to its comprehensive approach to canine nutrition and commitment to high-quality ingredients.
A Final Word
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