Wellness Core provides dogs with the right kind of nutrition that helps optimize their growth and development potential. True enough, Wellness Core dog food is one of the trusted names when it comes to well-balanced, nutrient-complete canine diets. It has consistently earned high marks because of its insistence on using high-quality animal proteins, unique grain-free formulation, and the thoughtful addition of other health-giving nutrients and substances. In this review, we’ll take an inside look at why the brand is considered one of the best, if not THE best.
At a Glance: 10 Wellness Dog Food Recipes
1 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Turkey, potatoes, chicken, flaxseed, fish,
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, peas, dried ground potatoes
- Primary Proteins: Turkey and chicken
- Calories: 417 kcal per cup
- Flavor: Turkey and chicken
- Type: Dry food
- Life Stage: Adult
It’s back to basics with the Protein-Focused Nutrition formulation of this Wellness Core dog food. Premium-quality turkey is carefully deboned to give your pet only the highest possible quality of animal proteins while the other parts of chicken and turkey are turned into a delicious meal. Potatoes and peas are added alongside other fantastic natural ingredients to give your hound a well-balanced and nutritionally-complete Wellness dog food.
The choice of turkey as its principal protein is noteworthy as it goes hand-in-hand with its grain-free formulation. It’s a smorgasbord of flavors and one that is guaranteed to be easily digested with the addition of 4 probiotic strains fed by a bevy of prebiotics. This is the kind of pet food that dog lovers. If you are looking for more options, check out our guide on high protein dog foods.
Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Lentils, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Choline Chloride, Chicory Root Extract, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
2 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Turkey, Chicken Liver & Turkey Liver Formula Canned Dog Food
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Chicken, Turkey, Flaxseed, Guar Gum, Carrageenan (irritant), Salt (irritant)
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Turkey Liver
- Primary Proteins: Chicken and Turkey
- Calories: 446 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken and Turkey
- Type: Wet Food (Canned)
- Life Stage: Puppies, Adults
Enriched with salmon oil for the best in DHA and EPA formulation, this grain-free canned Wellness dog food is perfect for hounds that require plenty of animal-based proteins from two of the world’s best sources, turkey and chicken. While it lists only 12% protein, the actual dry matter weight of proteins is a staggering 54.5% giving your pet a protein-rich diet necessary for the development of many of its organs, not to mention the synthesis of immune system cells and hormones.
The essential fatty acids are exceptionally high for optimum coat, skin, and immune system health, too. This is one Wellness brand dog food that’s ideal for younger hounds as well as highly active dogs because of its high protein and high-calorie content. Those muscles will surely get the kind of toning they need.
Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Turkey Liver, Sweet Potatoes, Chicken Meal, Ground Flaxseed, Carrageenan, Guar Gum, Carrots, Apples, Spinach, Parsley, Blueberries, Broccoli, Kale, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Choline Chloride, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
3 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Marrow Roasts Hearty Beef Recipe Dog Treats
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Beef, flaxseed, chicken, salt (irritant)
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, ground peas, vegetable glycerin, chickpea flour, tapioca starch
- Primary Proteins: Beef
- Calories: 11 kcals per piece
- Flavor: Beef
- Type: Biscuit treat
- Life Stage: All
Just because it’s a doggie treat doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be nutritious anymore. But if you do decide to give your dog the Marrow Roasts from Wellness, make sure to make the necessary adjustments in its diet since a single piece of Marrow Roast typically packs 11 calories. Give 10 and you’ve got to shave 110 calories from your pet’s regular diet.
The positive thing about the Marrow Roast is that it does come with cooked bone marrow, giving your pet the kind of doggie treat that it will be salivating for. Every obedience training or even positive reinforcement activity will surely be made even more meaningful for your canine friend if you integrate these treats in its training.
Beef, Ground Peas, Vegetable Glycerin, Chickpea Flour, Tapioca Starch, Ground Flaxseed, Cooked Bone Marrow, Sweet Potatoes, Caramel Color, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Vinegar, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
4 Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Wild Game Recipe with Freeze Dried Lamb
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Chicken, flaxseed,
- First 5 ingredients: Duck, lamb meal, chicken meal, chickpeas, pea protein
- Primary Proteins: Duck, lamb
- Calories: 382 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Duck, lamb, wild boar, and rabbit
- Type: Dry food
- Life Stage: Adult
Your pet dog is in for a treat if you give it the RawRev High Protein Kibble from Wellness. It’s got duck, wild boar, lamb meal, and rabbit in the mix complemented with the freshest natural vegetables and fruits you could ever think of. While the main ingredients are duck, turkey, and lamb your hound will surely love the taste of rabbit and wild boar in the blend. It’s a kibble like no other, filled with novel proteins that are sure to create a festive atmosphere in your pet’s palates.
And if you’re concerned your pet will not be able to digest it well, the addition of prebiotics and probiotics should address such issues. The exciting blend of premium ingredients gives the RawRev Wellness brand dog food the kind of nutrient profile that is not only complete but is also highly enviable.
Duck, Lamb Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Chickpeas, Peas, Lentils, Pea Protein, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Lamb Hearts, Ground Flaxseed, Wild Boar, Rabbit, Natural Duck Flavor, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Chicory Root Extract, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
5 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Hearty Cuts in Gravy Beef & Venison Recipe
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Beef, egg, potato, guar gum, salt (irritant), flaxseed, fish
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef broth, venison broth, beef liver, dried egg white
- Primary Proteins: Beef and venison
- Calories: 330 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Beef and venison
- Type: Wet food (canned)
- Life Stage: Adult
No dog can ever resist the tasty and meaty goodness of the Hearty Cuts. This Wellness dog food is made from the choicest cuts of beef and venison using the very same broth upon which they are cooked in, locking in all that delicious and nutritious goodness. The formula is made even more delectable by the addition of select fruits and vegetables that are not only very easy to digest but are nutrient-dense, too.
The addition of egg whites into the top 5 ingredients further enhances the protein content of this Wellness brand dog food making sure your hound will have all the necessary building blocks for its optimum health. Be it as a dog food topper or as a standalone meal, the Hearty Cuts sure is deserving of a Michelin Star in the dog world.
Beef, Beef Broth, Venison Broth, Beef Liver, Dried Egg White, Venison, Potato Starch, Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans, Guar Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Carrots, Apples, Blueberries, Broccoli, Kale, Parsley, Spinach, Canola Oil, Salt, Sodium Phosphate, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Inulin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Kelp, Choline Chloride, Salmon Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
6 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Turkey & Chicken Recipe
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Turkey, chicken, potatoes, flaxseed, fish,
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, lentils, dried ground potatoes
- Primary Proteins: Turkey, chicken
- Calories: 412 kcal per cup
- Flavor: Turkey and chicken
- Type: Dry food
- Life Stage: Adult
As a dog owner, choosing the ideal food to meet your dog’s needs can be difficult. So if you’re looking for grain-free pet food for your small breed, Wellness has a dry food formula perfect for small, extra small, and toy breeds. This dry dog food uses turkey and chicken meal as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to protect your pooch’s heart and joint health.
To add, the recipe is packed with healthy carbohydrates and protein to support the energy levels of small breed dogs. This grain-free, protein-rich blend contains all of the vital ingredients and essential vitamins and minerals to protect every inch of their health including their heart, digestive system, eye health, joint function, and immune system.
Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Lentils, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Spearmint, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
7 Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Chicken & Turkey Recipe
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Chicken, turkey, potatoes, ground flaxseed,
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, lentils, peas
- Primary Proteins: Chicken, turkey
- Calories: 342 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken, turkey
- Type: Dry food
- Life Stage: Adult
Wellness core dog food for large breeds is a recipe that appears similar to the blend made for smaller breeds however pet owners will find that the level of ingredients is specifically adjusted to suit the needs of the breed. For example, the recipe for large dogs contains less fat and protein as small dogs need a higher content to suit their energy levels.
Rest assured, this recipe supports the joints of your large breed as they are known to develop health conditions related to these areas as they get older. Not only is this recipe a delicious natural chicken flavor food but it includes folic acid to support metabolic functions, green tea extract that contains helpful antioxidants as well as a plethora of other additives with incredible health benefits.
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Turkey Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Lentils, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Pea Fiber, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Choline Chloride, L-Carnitine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
8 Wellness CORE 95% Grain-Free Beef & Carrots Canned Dog Food
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Beef, ground flaxseed
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, water sufficient for processing, carrots, tricalcium phosphate, cassia gum
- Primary Proteins: Beef
- Calories: 427 kcal per can
- Flavor: Beef
- Type: Wet food (canned)
- Life Stage: Adult
For every breed, no matter what size, Wellness Core has 95% beef and carrots canned dog food your pooch is sure to wolf down. Made with premium protein from real beef this food can be served as a standalone meal, a tasty topper, or as part of a mixed meal with other food. Adult dogs will also enjoy this grain-free recipe as a treat.
Made to support overall health, this blend is packed with vital and nutritious minerals and vitamins. A vitamin E supplement will help to protect muscle and heart health as well as add shine and nourishment to their skin and coat. In addition to that, there is the inclusion of vitamin supplements D3 and B12 as well as a number of chelated minerals to ensure every inch of their body is well cared for.
Beef, Water Sufficient For Processing, Carrots, Tricalcium Phosphate, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Minerals (Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Potassium Iodide), Vitamins (Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Choline Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate.
9 Wellness CORE Digestive Health Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Chicken, turkey, brown rice, barley, oats, brewers dried yeast (irritant), flaxseed, fish,
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, turkey meal, meal (chicken), brown rice, barley
- Primary Proteins: Chicken and turkey
- Calories: 395 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Chicken and brown rice
- Type: Dry dog food
- Life Stage: Adult
Wellness Core’s Digestive health dog food is formulated to support and promote healthy digestion for those pups who struggle with a sensitive stomach. Each kibble piece is coated in a healthy probiotic and is easy to chew and digest. Pumpkin and papaya take the lead with this food as they are known to assist gastric issues as they are rich in fiber.
However, it’s worth noting that this recipe doesn’t neglect all of the other necessary and vital ingredients of your dog’s food. A healthy supply of omega fatty acids is present to encourage healthy skin and coats as well as antioxidants and prebiotics to aid the function of the immune system. Not to mention, there is an evident appropriate supply of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to aid your dog’s well-being.
Deboned Chicken, Turkey Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Brown Rice, Barley, Oat Groats, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Flaxseed, Chicken Fat, Pumpkin, Brewers Dried Yeast, Cranberries, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salmon Oil, Apples, Inulin, Potassium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Papayas, Blueberries, Pomegranates, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Fennel, Ground Peppermint, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Riboflavin, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Dried Lactobacillus delbrueckii Fermentation Product, Dried Streptococcus thermophilus Fermentation Product, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma reesei Fermentation Product, Dried Rhizopus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
10 Wellness CORE Bowl Boosters Tender Turkey & Chicken Recipe
- Brand: Wellness CORE
- Allergens: Turkey, chicken, milk, ground flaxseed, salt (irritant), gelatin
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, deboned chicken, chickpeas, peas, gelatin
- Primary Proteins: Chicken and turkey
- Calories: 411 kcals per cup
- Flavor: Turkey and chicken
- Type: Dry dog food (air-dried)
- Life Stage: Adult
Made from 70% raw protein ingredients this recipe can be used as a delicious meal mixer, topper, or even a simple treat for well-behaved pups. Bowl Boosters are a great addition to dog foods as they can supply your pup with a variety of minerals and vitamins. These include rosemary extract to aid brain function as well as green tea extract and spearmint extract that will assist their immune system.
These tender bites are easy for your dog to chew and digest and can add a boost of flavor to meals. The blend is gently air-dried and like most other Wellness Core dog food, it is rich in protein and completely free from grain.
Deboned Turkey, Deboned Chicken, Chickpeas, Peas, Gelatin, Vegetable Glycerin, Tomato Pomace, Salt, Dried Cultured Skim Milk, Ground Flaxseed, Sunflower Lecithin, Natural Flavor, Chicory Root Extract, Zinc Propionate, Potassium Citrate, Apples, Blueberries, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Vitamin E Supplement, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Broccoli, Zinc Proteinate, Parsley, Zinc Sulfate, Dried Kale, Carrots, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
Is Wellness Core a Good Dog Food?
A Short History Of The Wellness Pet Food
Way back in 1926 Old Mother Hubbard was founded and was known to bake hardtack sea biscuits. That was until a sailor’s dog took a liking to the delicious baked goods. A few decades later, in 1961, the company was purchased by professional animal nutritionist Jim Scott, Sr. It was over the next few years that Scott worked with trainers, veterinarians, scientists, and other animal nutritionist experts to produce the popular and well-loved brand Wellness.
Wellness Core is a particular line of dog food that is manufactured and distributed by Wellness Pet Food. It was during 2007 that Wellness developed and launched this protein-focused sub-brand to provide dogs with a high-quality, protein-rich diet made with natural ingredients.
Throughout their time manufacturing pet foods, Wellness continuously takes steps to enhance their products and provide pet owners with the best source of nutrition for their beloved companions.
Where Is Wellness Dog Food Made?
On their web page, Wellness states that their dry food products are made within their company-owned manufacturing facility in Indiana, USA. However, where they may mention that their wet food products undergo rigorous safety and quality regime, they do not state whether or not these products are made within the same facility.
Where Do They Source Their Ingredients From?
Wellness promises customers that their ingredients are sourced from reliable and trustworthy suppliers. All ingredients are tested and suppliers undergo scrutiny to ensure they can and will provide high-quality ingredients.
The packaging on a lot of Wellness products indicates that their ingredients are globally sourced. However, it is unclear where the ingredients are physically sourced from. Sources continuously conflict online as false information can quickly spread and potentially contaminate the proper information.
CORE Is One Of The Three Different Wellness Dog Food Brands
Simple
The Simple range is a range perfect for pet owners to narrow down a potential allergen plaguing their pooch. These options are all limited-ingredient diets. Some cater specifically to different needs or food sensitivities. For example, there is an option that is specifically for small breeds whereas there is another option perfect for achieving or maintaining a healthy weight.
CORE
The Wellness CORE dog food range is made up of grain-free formulas in different varieties. As seen in the Wellness Core products above, these can range from wet and dry and can be a standalone meal or even treats or toppers (sometimes all in one!)
Complete Health
This range has a multitude of options for dog owners including recipes for puppies and senior dogs. All of which claim to look after every part of your dog’s health needs. This range also comes in a variety of forms for your consideration.
Let’s Take a Closer Look At The Ingredients
The Wellness dog food brand is well-known for its exceptional use of high-quality ingredients that not only complies with current AAFCO canine dietary recommendations but also take into consideration the evolutionary and ancestral diets of man’s best friend. Unlike other dog food brands that put a lot of carbs as fillers into their formulations, Wellness insists on focusing more on quality meats for its ingredients. Here’s a look at the nutrient profile of Wellness dog food.
High Protein Content
Typically, the products found here contain around 35% crude protein. When this is computed to account for its dry matter weight, you get 43.75% which is definitely higher than AAFCO’s minimum of 18% for maintenance and 22.5% for growth, development, and reproduction. This is way higher than dog food brands that can only manage to squeeze in a maximum of 27% on a dry matter basis.
Its canned and wet dog food formulations contain even higher proteins. Its wet food formulation has a protein content of 9% while its canned dog food is rated at 12%. When these are adjusted to consider only the dry matter weight, its wet dog food translates to 50% dry protein while its canned dog food comes in at 54.5%. It is quite rare to find another dog food brand that can provide such levels of proteins.
These proteins can be found in a number of ingredients. Primarily, an ample portion will be provided by animal protein sources. In addition to this, there will also be a specific meat meal including a fish meal or chicken and turkey meal.
Moderate to High-Fat Content
Except for its canned food, Wellness Core products come with an average of 16 to 17 percent of fats when its dry matter weight is considered. If it’s the canned food variety that you want to give to your pet, you’re going to give it about 36.36% fats in terms of its dry matter weight. AAFCO puts the minimum at 5.5% and 8.5% for maintenance and growth-reproduction requirements, respectively. This puts Wellness dog food well in the moderate to high-fat categories.
The good news is that majority of the fats that are present in dog food are those that are healthier versions such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats as well as essential fatty acids. In cases where optimum DHA and EPA levels are required, fish oil for dogs is often added to augment the need for beneficial essential fatty acids.
Low to Moderate Carbohydrate Content
Taking the protein and fat composition of Wellness Core dog food in relation to its moisture content, we can say that the dry dog food formulation is composed of about 60% proteins and fats. Since dry dog food contains 10% moisture, this means that only 30% is geared for carbohydrates.
The same is true for its wet formulation with a combined percentage of fat and proteins at 67%, making the carbohydrate content only 33%. As for its canned formulation, Wellness Core has a combined protein-fat composition of 90.86% leaving only 9.14% for carbohydrates.
Micronutrients
One can always count on Wellness to deliver the right amounts of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc, among others to complement its vitamin formulation. Whenever appropriate, the formula also includes substances geared for optimum joint health such as chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine. Since its major composition is meat-based protein, one can also expect the completeness of the essential amino acids.
Wellness Dog Food Recall History
Compared to other pet and dog food brands, Wellness has had very few recalls although this doesn’t mean to say they are perfect. Having said that, the recalls have not involved the Wellness CORE range that is featured within this dog food review.
May 2012
WellPet LLC voluntarily recalled one of its recipes, Wellness Complete Health, due to potential Salmonella poisoning.
October 2012
A line of dry kibble products was recalled due to possible moisture contamination.
March 2017
A limited number of Wellness canned dog food was recalled due to elevated levels of beef thyroid hormone.
There have been other recalls associated with Wellness during 2011 and 2017 however these withdrawals were cat food-related lines.
How Much Does Wellness CORE Dog Food Cost?
Wellness Core dog food is regarded as high-quality pet food and therefore you may find that the price may be a little higher than other brands. Loyal customers claim that the difference is worth it when looking for healthier dog food however you may find that the price varies from seller to seller.
When taking a gander through our Wellness Core dog food review, take a look at the chart below to compare prices. It may also be worth checking back from time to time as there may be promotions or multibuy offers. You may also find that particular sites offer a subscription service that could save you money.
* Prices are from Chewy at the time of publication and can change.
Where Can I Buy Wellness Core Dog Food?
If you like what you’re learning about Wellness Core dog food and are definitely looking to purchase you won’t have to go too far. Each of the products in our dog food review has numerous links for you to take advantage of. These links will take you through to Amazon, Chewy, or PetSmart for you to find the best deal and get your pet food delivered to your home.
In A Nutshell, Is Wellness Core A Good Choice?
Even if you’ve made your well through numerous Wellness dog food reviews, specifically Wellness Core reviews, it can be difficult to reach a decision. After all, dogs thrive best on a nutritious diet so getting them the finest alternative is a priority.
Wellness has some wonderfully beneficial and delicious recipes to support your pooch. Its recall history isn’t particularly thick compared to other dog food brands however the lack of information regarding the manufacturing of wet pet food products is a concern to some pet owners. Despite the few negative aspects, Wellness Core is a popular pet food choice for many pet parents that is still going strong.
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