Selecting the best food for your dog is a decision that affects their health, happiness, and wellbeing! With so many choices available, it’s no wonder people ask: is Taste of the Wild a good dog food? In this review, I’m going to take an in-depth look at what you’ll get with this brand of food, to help you decide whether or not it’s the ideal choice for your four-legged friend.
What is Taste of the Wild?
Taste of the Wild is a dog food brand that was introduced to the public in 2007 and it has been growing in popularity ever since. The brand was developed in response to anticipated customer demand for pet foods that not only reflect medical research, but also raw diets that are consistent with the meat-based diets of their ancestors. Taste of the Wild The company has a mission to create a balanced diet through high-quality animal proteins, the exclusion of grains and the addition of exotic meats such as bison, venison and salmon with the intent to produce a diet more similar to what dogs eat in the wild.
Taste of the Wild recipes are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of all life stages and for added vitamins & minerals.
Key Ingredients and Nutrient Profile
High-Quality Proteins:
Taste of the Wild recipes are proven to be some of the most popular in the US and all of the formulas consist of real meats and include unique meats like bison, venison, wild boar, lamb blood, fowl blood, and salmon blood. These proteins help to maintain muscle, provide energy and contribute to good health.
Some Great Grain-Free and Limited Ingredient Options:
The majority of formulas are grain-free, some using sweet potatoes, peas and legumes as replacement carbohydrates. The PREY line includes limited ingredient dog food that features single-source animal protein for dogs with sensitivities.
Fruit, Vegetables and Antioxidants:
Includes blueberries, raspberries, tomatoes, and tomato pomace to supply antioxidants for immune support and other health.
Probiotics:
all Taste of the Wild foods are made without grain, and produce with species-specific probiotics making them the go-to choice for pet parents looking for to live wild. The probiotics are put in after the cookies have been baked so they remain alive.
Omega Fatty Acids:
A blend of omega fatty acids, usually from fish oils and chicken fat, promotes a healthy coat and skin.
No Artificial Flavors or By Products:
The brand eschews artificial colors and flavors, as well as low-grade meat by-products, which is a good thing for pet parents looking for cleaner ingredient lists.
Benefits of Taste of the Wild
High Protein Content:
Several recipes contain 25–32% protein, ideal for working dogs and preserving lean muscle.
Good for Sensitive Stomachs:
Grain-free recipes, and the ability to use exotic proteins, make the food suitable for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
Digestive Health:
Additional probiotics included, as well as fiber from ingredients like chicory root, for healthy digestion and easier poops.
Variety of Flavors:
With its unusual protein sources and multiple recipes, picky eaters or those dogs with food sensitivities get choices.
Positive Customer Feedback:
Most dog owners say their pet’s coat quality, energy levels and digestive health all improved since they switched to Taste of the Wild.
Is Taste of the Wild Good Dog Food
Disadvantages and Controversies
High Carbohydrate Content:
A few reviewers comment that, despite displaying a protein-focused recipe, many of the formulas actually contain a fairly high level of carbohydrates (as much as 34% in some dry foods), which mostly come from legumes and potatoes.
Sourcing and Transparency of Ingredients:
Some have issues with the use of anonymous animal meats (particularly in fish meal), ingredient splitting (i.e., the use of multiple peas ingredients), and also the lack of information as to whether the fish is wild-caught or farmed.
Processing and Additives:
As with most kibbles, Taste of the Wild is ultra-processed, which inevitably results in at least some loss of nutrients. Some formulations contain controversial ingredients such as natural flavor (possibly MSG or animal digest) as well as sodium selenite.
Possible Connection to Dog Heart Disease:
Possible connection between grain-free diets (especially those that contain legumes and potatoes) and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), by The FDA listed Taste of the Wild as one of the brands it is scrutinizing, but still hasn’t identified a cause for certain and has not announced any recalls due to this evidence
Price Point:
Taste of the Wild is pricier than some regular brands, but most feel that the quality is worth it.
Recall History:
(Its’ parent company, Diamond Pet Foods, has had recalls, but Taste of the Wild is recently solid.)
Who is taste of the Wild Candy for?
Active Dogs:
Energetic and working breeds will benefit from the high protein level.
Dogs with Food Sensitivities:
Grain-free and limited-ingredient varieties cater to dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
Owners Seeking Variety:
Cons Comes in many flavors and protein sources so you are also able to rotate through them so you don’t have to worry about food boredom.
Feeding Instructions and Transition Instructions
Follow Package Guidelines:
Feeding quantities will vary depending on many factors such as your dogs size, age, and activity level. Always monitor to ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight and adjust portions as necessary.
Transition Gradually:
Gradually switch foods over a 7–10 day period to minimize digestive upset. Begin with 25 percent of the new food combined with 75 percent of the old, then slowly increase the new while decreasing the old.
Consult Your Veterinarian:
As with any feeding changes, however, always ask your vet before making any changes, especially if your dog has health issues.
FAQs
Can puppies and seniors eat Taste of the Wild?
Taste of the Wild makes puppy recipes and recipes labeled “All Life Stages” which dogs of any age – puppy, adult or senior can eat. Always choose the formula that suits your dog’s age and ask your vet for the best one if need be
Is Taste of the Wild Grain Free?
The majority of Taste of the Wild recipes are grain-free and utilize sweet potatoes, peas, and legumes as carbohydrate sources. Some ancient grains may be included in the PREY line and some new recipes for those who are looking for some whole grains in a diet.
Is Taste of the Wild good for food allergies or sensitivites?
Allergies and digestive problems have reportedly improved in many owners after transitioning to Taste of the Wild due to their use of novel proteins and grain-free formulas. Note that however some dogs may still react to some ingredients, so always observe your pup!
Is Taste of the Wild recalled?
(Its parent company, Diamond Pet Foods, has had recalls in the past, though the more recent safety record of Taste of the Wild is spotless.) As always, you should check our updates on the latest recall information and buy from a reputable source.
How to Transition to Taste of the Wild?
Gradually switch, mixing in the new food over the course of 7 – 10 days so that you can prevent your dog from experiencing too much digestive upset. Watch for intolerance and if necessary see your vet.
Final Thought
Taste of the Wild excels as a high-protein, grain-free dog food, using novel meats—such as bison, venison, roasted duck, quail, roasted lamb, and smoked or roasted turkey—antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and four kinds of omegas for optimal nutrition. Our dogs do perfectly on its formulas, their coats shine, they have good energy levels and they have had good digestive health. But it’s not without its drawbacks: some formulas are high in carbs, include questionable ingredients, and the brand’s grain-free focus has been the subject of DCM research.
And as with all dog foods, what works miracles for one dog may not work at all for another. Always make these changes gradually, pay attention to how your dog is feeling, and reach out to your vet to make sure you’re doing what’s best for your pup. Take the time to read the next section to find out how much energy the food can give your pet, and how healthy it can become as a result of all this. For plenty of pet owners, this is a healthy, tasty and well-balanced choice that’s good to consider.
