Transitioning your canine companion to a new food can be a significant decision, especially with the growing interest in alternative diets. Wild Earth’s Performance Formula, with its Veggie Supreme Flavor, offers a unique plant-based approach to dog nutrition. This review delves into the specifics of this formula, examining its ingredients, nutritional profile, and suitability for various dogs, with a particular focus on active and aging pets. We’ll explore what makes Wild Earth stand out in the pet food market, addressing common concerns and highlighting the benefits of a scientifically formulated, plant-powered diet.
Understanding the Wild Earth Performance Formula
Wild Earth positions its Performance Formula as a complete and high-protein alternative to traditional meat-based kibble. Developed with veterinary expertise, this formula aims to support both canine longevity and environmental sustainability. The brand emphasizes its commitment to providing scientifically formulated nutrition derived entirely from plants, addressing common food allergens and reducing the ecological footprint associated with meat production.
Key Nutritional Benefits
The Performance Formula boasts a 28% protein content, designed to aid muscle recovery and metabolism, particularly for active dogs. It includes essential nutrients such as Taurine and L-Carnitine, crucial for heart health. For overall wellness, the formula incorporates DHA for cognitive function, prebiotics to support a healthy digestive system, and omega fatty acids beneficial for skin and coat health. A significant advantage is its hypoallergenic nature, being free from common allergens like meat, dairy, wheat, and soy, making it a suitable option for dogs with sensitivities. The ingredients are primarily sourced from oats, spinach, and sweet potato, with no unnecessary fillers. Furthermore, the brand highlights the eco-friendly aspect, noting a lower CO₂ and water footprint compared to meat-based alternatives, with all products being made in the USA. The Veggie Supreme Flavor is crafted to appeal to dogs’ palates, mimicking a savory poultry-like taste.
Hypoallergenic Properties
For pet owners whose dogs suffer from allergies, finding the right food can be a challenge. Common triggers such as beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, lamb, pork, eggs, soy, rabbit, and fish are completely absent from Wild Earth’s products. This 100% plant-based composition eliminates these common allergens, offering a safe and effective dietary solution. Research has suggested that dogs on a plant-based diet may experience fewer health issues and require fewer vet visits, potentially leading to a longer, happier life.
Ingredients and Nutritional Breakdown
A thorough examination of the ingredient list provides insight into the quality and source of the nutrients in Wild Earth’s Performance Formula.
Ingredients: Dried Yeast, Barley, Oats, Grain Sorghum, Potato Protein, Millet, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Sweet Potato, Flaxseed, Sunflower Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavors (source of Veggie Chick’n Kabob Flavor), Salt, Safflower Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Potassium Chloride, Marine Microalgae, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Inulin (from dried chicory root), Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Fructooligosaccharide, Tocopherols (preservative), L-Carnitine, Vitamin E Supplement, Blueberries, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Spinach, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, Sodium Selenite, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D2 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Guaranteed Analysis:
- Crude Protein (min): 28.0%
- Crude Fat (min): 11.0%
- Crude Fiber (max): 5.0%
- Moisture (max): 10.0%
- Lysine (min): 1.9%
- Methionine (min): 0.5%
- Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) (min): 0.05%
- Calcium (min): 1.0%
- Phosphorus (min): 0.9%
- Sodium (min): 0.25%
- Zinc (min): 150 mg/kg
- Vitamin E (min): 100 mg/kg
- Carnitine (min): 75 mg/kg
- Taurine (min): 0.1%
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids (min): 1.7%
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min): 0.8%
Calorie Content: 3,380 kcal/kg (calculated ME), approximately 250 kcal/cup.
This formula is designed to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance.
Transitioning Your Dog to Wild Earth
A gradual transition is recommended to ensure your dog’s digestive system adjusts smoothly to the new food. Wild Earth suggests a 7–10 day transition period:
- Days 1–2: 25% Wild Earth, 75% current food
- Days 3–4: 50% Wild Earth, 50% current food
- Days 5–6: 75% Wild Earth, 25% current food
- Day 7 onwards: 100% Wild Earth
It is crucial to always provide fresh water and adjust feeding portions based on your dog’s individual weight, age, and activity level.
Feeding Guidelines
The recommended daily feeding guide varies by dog’s weight and activity level:
- Small dogs (2–10 lbs): ½ – 1½ cups
- Medium dogs (11–50 lbs): 1½ – 4¾ cups
- Large dogs (51–100+ lbs): 4¾ – 8+ cups (add ½ cup for every 10 lbs over 100 lbs)
For more precise recommendations, a detailed feeding chart is available, and customers can consult with Wild Earth’s Customer Success Team.
What Sets Wild Earth Apart?
Wild Earth distinguishes itself through several key pillars:
- Plant-Powered Nutrition: Utilizing sustainable plant-based ingredients to provide complete nutrition.
- Nutritionally Complete: Formulated to meet all essential nutrient requirements for dogs.
- Cruelty-Free: A commitment to animal welfare by avoiding animal byproducts and testing.
- Clean Ingredients: Focus on whole foods with no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
- Science-Backed: Developed with veterinary expertise and supported by research.
- Allergen-Free: Free from common allergens that affect many dogs.
Addressing Common Concerns
Can dogs thrive on a plant-based diet?
Yes, dogs can thrive on a well-formulated plant-based diet. Dogs are classified as omnivores, meaning their digestive systems can process nutrients from both plant and animal sources. Wild Earth’s formulas are designed to provide all the essential amino acids and nutrients dogs need, derived entirely from plants.
What about the link between plant-based diets and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)?
Wild Earth has addressed concerns regarding DCM by reformulating their Performance and Maintenance Formulas to exclude legumes, which were previously suspected in some studies. While current information indicates no direct correlation between plant-based diets and DCM, the company has proactively removed potential risk factors. Their nutritionally complete formulas are designed to prevent deficiencies that could be linked to such health issues.
Subscription and Purchasing
Wild Earth offers a subscription service that provides significant discounts, starting with 15% off the first two orders and increasing to 20% on the third order, with 10% off thereafter. Subscriptions also offer convenience by eliminating last-minute store runs and ensuring a consistent supply of food. The company offers a 30-day Happiness Guarantee, allowing customers to receive a full refund if their dog doesn’t love the food. Products can be purchased directly from WildEarth.com, as well as through Amazon, Petco, and Chewy, with a store locator available for finding local retail options.
Customer Testimonials
Customer feedback highlights the positive impact of Wild Earth’s Performance Formula. Rebecca W. notes, “My pup fiends for this flavor of food! It smells delicious to me as well!” Janice M. shares, “Bailey loves the food. He remains active at 14 years old,” underscoring the formula’s suitability for aging dogs.
Conclusion
Wild Earth’s Performance Formula offers a compelling plant-based option for dog owners seeking high-quality, hypoallergenic nutrition. Its scientifically formulated blend of plant-derived ingredients provides complete and balanced nutrition, supporting muscle health, digestion, and overall well-being, particularly for active and aging dogs. With its commitment to clean ingredients, sustainability, and a focus on eliminating common allergens, Wild Earth is a noteworthy choice for pet parents looking to diversify their dog’s diet and contribute to a healthier planet. The convenience of their subscription service and a robust satisfaction guarantee further enhance the appeal of this innovative dog food.
