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Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food Review

The review is based on AI analysis of available product data and customer reviews from Chewy.com. Learn more about how we are supported.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Oat Groats, Dried Peas, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Brown Rice, Carrots, Brewers Dried Yeast, Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Dicalcium Phosphate, Dl-Methionine, Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Ascorbic Acid (Source Of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Spinach, Dried Tomato Pomace, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Cranberries, Blueberries, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, L-Tryptophan, Kelp, Choline Chloride, L-Threonine, Mixed Tocopherols (Used As A Preservative), Lactic Acid, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Yucca Schidigera Extract, L-Carnitine, Citric Acid (Used As A Preservative), Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.

Chicken

Chicken is a high-quality source of protein for dogs. It is a lean meat that provides essential amino acids and helps support muscle development and maintenance.

Chicken Meal

Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein made from chicken that has been cooked to remove moisture. It is highly digestible and provides essential amino acids for dogs.

Pearled Barley

Pearled barley is a whole grain that provides carbohydrates, fiber, and some essential nutrients for dogs. It is easily digestible and can help support healthy digestion.

Oat Groats

Oat groats are whole oats that have been minimally processed. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and some essential nutrients for dogs. Oat groats can provide sustained energy and support digestive health.

Dried Peas

Dried peas are a plant-based source of protein and carbohydrates for dogs. They are rich in fiber and can help support healthy digestion. Peas are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)

Chicken fat is a highly digestible and flavorful source of energy for dogs. It provides essential fatty acids and helps support a healthy skin and coat. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of the fat.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a whole grain that provides carbohydrates, fiber, and some essential nutrients for dogs. It is easily digestible and can help support healthy digestion.

Carrots

Carrots are a nutritious vegetable for dogs. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Carrots can help support healthy vision and provide antioxidants.

Brewers Dried Yeast

Brewers dried yeast is a byproduct of the brewing process. It is a good source of B vitamins and can help support a healthy immune system and promote a shiny coat for dogs.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber for dogs. It can help support a healthy skin and coat, as well as promote digestive health.

Natural Flavor

Natural flavor is derived from natural sources and is used to enhance the taste of the dog food. It does not provide any nutritional value.

Dicalcium Phosphate

Dicalcium phosphate is a source of calcium and phosphorus for dogs. It helps support healthy bones and teeth.

DL-Methionine

DL-methionine is an essential amino acid for dogs. It helps support healthy skin, coat, and urinary health.

Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)

Menhaden fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. It helps support a healthy skin and coat, as well as promote joint health. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of the fish oil.

Salt

Salt is added in small amounts to provide flavor to the dog food. It should be used in moderation as excessive salt intake can be harmful to dogs.

Potassium Chloride

Potassium chloride is a source of potassium for dogs. It helps support healthy muscle function and nerve transmission.

Taurine

Taurine is an essential amino acid for dogs. It plays a crucial role in heart health and vision.

Vitamins

Vitamins are essential nutrients for dogs that help support various bodily functions. The specific vitamins included in the dog food are vitamin E, niacin, vitamin C, thiamine, pantothenic acid, vitamin A, riboflavin, pyridoxine, folic acid, biotin, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3.

Spinach

Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for dogs. It can help support a healthy immune system and promote overall well-being.

Dried Tomato Pomace

Dried tomato pomace is a byproduct of the tomato processing industry. It is a source of fiber and antioxidants for dogs.

Minerals

Minerals are essential nutrients for dogs that help support various bodily functions. The specific minerals included in the dog food are zinc, iron, copper, manganese, sodium, and calcium.

Cranberries

Cranberries are a fruit that provides antioxidants and can help support urinary tract health in dogs.

Blueberries

Blueberries are a fruit that provides antioxidants and can help support a healthy immune system in dogs.

L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate

L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate is a stable form of vitamin C. It is a potent antioxidant that helps support a healthy immune system and promotes overall well-being in dogs.

L-Tryptophan

L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid for dogs. It helps support a healthy mood and can promote relaxation.

Kelp

Kelp is a type of seaweed that provides trace minerals and can help support a healthy thyroid function in dogs.

Choline Chloride

Choline chloride is a source of choline for dogs. It helps support healthy brain function and liver health.

L-Threonine

L-threonine is an essential amino acid for dogs. It helps support healthy muscle function and immune system.

Mixed Tocopherols (Used As A Preservative)

Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of the dog food. They help prevent the oxidation of fats and maintain the quality of the ingredients.

Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is a natural preservative used to maintain the freshness of the dog food.

L-Lysine Monohydrochloride

L-lysine monohydrochloride is an essential amino acid for dogs. It helps support a healthy immune system and can promote respiratory health.

Yucca Schidigera Extract

Yucca schidigera extract is derived from the yucca plant. It is believed to help reduce stool odor in dogs.

L-Carnitine

L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that helps support healthy metabolism and energy production in dogs.

Citric Acid (Used As A Preservative)

Citric acid is a natural preservative used to maintain the freshness of the dog food.

Rosemary Extract

Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant that helps preserve the freshness of the dog food.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract is a natural antioxidant that helps support a healthy immune system in dogs.

Spearmint Extract

Spearmint extract is derived from the spearmint plant. It is used to enhance the flavor of the dog food and does not provide any significant nutritional value.


Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein 23 % min
Crude Fat 13% min
Crude Fiber 5 % max
Moisture 10% max

Crude Protein

Crude protein is an essential nutrient for dogs as it helps in building and repairing tissues, promoting healthy growth, and supporting a strong immune system. With a minimum value of 23%, the crude protein content in Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food is considered good for dogs, providing them with the necessary protein for their overall health and well-being.

Crude Fat

Crude fat is an important source of energy for dogs and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. With a minimum value of 13%, the crude fat content in Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food is considered adequate for dogs. However, it is important to ensure that the fat content is balanced with the dog's activity level to prevent weight gain or obesity.

Crude Fiber

Crude fiber is beneficial for a dog's digestive health as it aids in maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. With a maximum value of 5%, the crude fiber content in Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food is within the recommended range for dogs. It helps promote a healthy digestive system and supports optimal nutrient absorption.

Moisture

Moisture content refers to the amount of water present in the dog food. With a maximum value of 10%, the moisture content in Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food is relatively low. This ensures that the food remains dry and fresh, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage. It also helps in maintaining the food's shelf life.


Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High protein content from chicken and chicken meal
  • Includes a variety of fruits and vegetables for added nutrition
  • Contains omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives
  • Good customer reviews and average rating

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
  • Some dogs may not tolerate chicken blends well

Evaluation

Pet Food AI has assigned 4 stars to Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food.

Star Star Star Star

This food, Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken & Barley Formula Small Breed Bites Dry Dog Food, offers a balanced and nutritious diet for small breed dogs. With high protein content from chicken and chicken meal, it provides essential amino acids for muscle development and maintenance. The inclusion of fruits, vegetables, and flaxseed adds vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids for overall health. However, it's important to note that some dogs may have allergies to chicken, so it may not be suitable for them. Overall, this food has received positive customer reviews and is a good option for small breed dogs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this food healthy for dogs?

Yes, this food is healthy for dogs as it contains high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Can this food cause allergies?

Yes, this food includes chicken, which is a common allergen for some dogs. It may cause allergies in dogs with chicken sensitivities.

Should this food be combined with others?

It is not necessary to combine this food with others, as it provides a complete and balanced diet. However, if you prefer to mix different types of food, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to ensure proper proportions and nutritional balance.

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