alpo dog food reviews

Alpo Dog Food Review 2024: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary

Our Final Verdict

We give Alpo Dog Food a rating of 2 out of 5 stars.

Dog food recipes keep changing by the day, and its hard to know which dog food is the best for your pup. Alpo is a common brand lining dollar store and department store isles for quick, easy meals. But how is the nutrition, does the recipe hold up, and is it something you should even be feeding your dog?

Well explain a little bit about the company and dive deep into our pose formula ingredients.

At a Glance: The Best Alpo Dog Food Recipes

Rating	Image	Product	Details
	ALPO Prime Cuts Savory Beef Flavor Dry Dog Food	Colorful Flavorful Modest calorie levels	CHECK PRICE
	ALPO Come & Get It! Cookout Classic Dry Dog Food	Softer kibble Completely balanced Dogs love the flavor	CHECK PRICE
	ALPO Prime Cuts with Beef and Gravy	Recyclable cans Adequate protein and calories 23 essential vitamins and minerals	CHECK PRICE

Alpo Dog Food Reviewed

Alpo is a readily available dog food you can find in-store and online. But just because its readily available doesnt mean its nutritionally beneficial. There are plenty of choices on the market, fitting all kinds of budgets. Were here to tell you why you should avoid Alpo and buy your dog something that is more nutrient friendly. Lets learn a little about the company and why we cant recommend Alpo.

Who Makes Alpo and Where Is It Produced?

Alpo is made by Nestle Purina, a very well-known pet food company. Purina offers a long lineup of nutrition at varying costs. Alpo is at the bottom of the totem pole in both categories.

Which Type of Dog Is Alpo Best Suited For?

Alpo is a prevalent Purina dog food brand line you can find just about anywhere. Because its so readily available, you might mistakenly think its the best option for your dog. We beg to differ. We think that the only time Alpo should ever be fed to a dog is if its an emergency situation where another food is available or temporary until their traditional dog food comes in the mail.

Otherwise, Alpo uses many ingredients and formulas that can trigger all sorts of allergies and sensitivities and even aid in developing specific health issues.

Which Type of Dog Might Do Better with a Different Brand?

If youre trying to find a readily available brand on the shelves, you dont have to dismiss quality nutrition completely. Dogs with any sensitivity should never eat Alpo for any reason. It can trigger all sorts of unwanted symptoms related to digestive issues.

Purina dog food is popular as well, and they have several lines of comprehensive recipes to satisfy the taste buds and aid in the health of many different dogs. Its as convenient as what youre looking for. We understand the importance of being able to stay local and still be able to feed your Mtley Cre.

With Purina they carry high-quality lines of dog food that target particular health issues. You can check out all of their top-of-the-line recipes if you click here.

Discussion of the Primary Ingredients (Good and Bad)

Youve heard our disdain for this particular brand, but now you get to figure out exactly why. When we look at a dog food brand, we consider so many factors.

For us to consider dog food top quality, there should be a foundation protein source, wholesome ingredients with essential vitamins and minerals, and supportive bodily components. Alpo lacks severely in all categories.

• Ground yellow corn is the first ingredient in this dog food. Corn doesnt provide much for dogs in the way of nutrition.
• Meat and bone meal provide a concentrated protein source. But ideally, we like to see meat protein as the first ingredient in dog food because protein provides the most beneficial nutrition for dogs. It also doesnt specify what the meat is, which is not good for dogs that may have an allergy to certain kinds of meat.
• Soybean meal is a carbohydrate source found in many common dog foods. Many dogs have sensitivities to soy, so its not always the best ingredient to see in a lineup. However, soy is a good source of fiber for your dog.
• Beef fat added protein source with other health benefits.
• Corn gluten meal contains fiber and serves as a carbohydrate source. Some dogs are highly sensitive to gluten in dog food, so this ingredient is controversial.
• Egg and chicken flavor is an unusual phrasing because its hard to determine if it is natural or synthetic egg and chicken.
• Natural flavor is a very tricky element. Natural flavors have no one meaning and can signal many things, most of which are not good. Legally, natural flavors can contain many synthetic ingredients. So, it might look like some tricky marketing.
• Dyes

Here, we see all of these dyes and toxins.

• Red 40linked to stomach issues, migraines, nervousness, jitteriness
• Yellow 5can cause itching, coughing, vomiting
• Blue 2has been linked to tumors in male rats during studies
• Garlic Oilgarlic is highly toxic to dogs, as are all plants in the allium family

Dietary Triggers

Alpo offers a not-so-healthy lineup of ingredients that can cause all sorts of digestive upsetand some ingredients are just bad for all dogs in general.

Corn being the main ingredient is already a huge red flag, as there is more of a carbohydrate source than protein. Corn is not a nutrient-dense carb source, either, providing minimal nutritional benefit. While it isnt a filler, as some would say, it isnt the most nutritious choice. There are also tons of dyes, artificial preservatives, and flavors, some of which are synthetic ingredients.

Alpos dog food recipes also contain meat and bone meal as one of the primary ingredients. However, this is very ambiguous, and it could be any kind of meat in the food. Some types of meat, such as chicken or beef, are common allergens for dogs. So its hard to know exactly what kind of meat youre getting.

A Quick Look at ALPO Food

Cons

• Contains potential allergy triggers
• Contains artificial flavors and dyes
• Contains byproducts and fillers
• Kibble contains very little protein

Recall History

From our research, we only found one recall on Alpo Dog food. In March of 2007, Alpo Prime Cuts was recalled due to possible melamine contamination.

Reviews of the 3 Best ALPO Dog Food Recipes

1. ALPO Prime Cuts Savory Beef Flavor Dry Dog Food

ALPO Prime Cuts Savory Beef Dry Dog Food is designed for flavor. It contains many delicious ingredients that might catch your picky dogs attention. It also has colorful elements to capture the eye.

However, even though these tactics are effective, this recipe doesnt contain the best ingredients. It only has 18.0% protein on the guaranteed analysis, which is very low. If you buy this dog food, we encourage you to mix it with a high-protein wet food topper.

Otherwise, its a modest calorie diet, so it would work well for various activity levels. It contains ground corn meal as the first ingredient, which we really dont like to see. Rather than a whole protein source, it has bone and meat mealnot the best source.

However, it is compatible with nutrient profile requirements.

Pros

• Modest calorie levels
• Flavorful
• Colorful

Cons

• Many unhealthy ingredients
• Very low protein

2. ALPO Come & Get It! Cookout Classic Dry Dog Food

ALPO Come & Get It Cookout Classic Dry Dog Food is a 100% complete and balanced recipe. It is a grain-inclusive recipe that meets nutritional requirements, providing 23 essential vitamins and minerals.

This recipe contains important ingredients like linoleic acids and calcium for healthy skin, fur, and bones. Essentially, its full of fillers, using starches and hard-to-digest ingredients for carbs. It contains a dangerously low amount of protein, however, averaging 18% on the guaranteed analysis.

We noticed this dog food contains a little more moisture than some dry dog foods, and you can tell slightly in the kibble texture. Your dogs might love the taste, but we give the recipe a big thumbs down.

Pros

• Completely balanced
• Softer kibble

Cons

• Low protein
• Uses artificial flavors, byproducts, and fillers

3. ALPO Prime Cuts with Beef and Gravy

ALPO Prime Cuts with Beef and Gravy is sure to tickle the taste buds of any pup. Its formulated with the basic 23 essential vitamins and minerals for dogs. It contains a meaty loaf sitting in a savory gravy that will spruce up fresh dry kibble with a hydrating surprise.

The recipe contains an average amount of calories and protein, making it adequate for most dogs with moderate activity levels.

While it might be full of moisture and meaty flavors, it doesnt contain the best ingredients. It shows unspecified poultry as the number one ingredient, followed by meat byproducts and wheat gluten. Its just screaming to trigger an allergy.

One positive is that the recipes are crafted in the United States. So, at least you can keep a closer eye on the business sourcing if need be.

Pros

• 23 essential vitamins and minerals
• Recyclable cans
• Adequate protein and calories

Cons

• Contains artificial ingredients

What Other Users Are Saying

We havent seen the best comments about Alpo from nutritionists. Many claim it is insufficient due to the number of artificial additives and low-quality ingredients.

However, many customer reviews disagree. It seems many owners have picky dogs who love the taste of Alpo.

We dont need to rag on Alpo, but they really should improve their dietary selections based on the current changes in the pet food industry.

By offering a more comprehensive selection of quality products that cater to different dietary sensitivities, it might severely limit their customer base and impact to the health of owners who choose to feed this dog food to their p

Conclusion

In good conscience, we cannot recommend Alpo dog food for your dog. It contains too many artificial ingredients and other potential allergy triggers that can be upsetting for many canines, even the healthy ones. There are plenty of other selections that you can find readily available in stores, such as other lines in the Purina dog food brand.

This is definitely not one of the best and we give it a big thumbs down. Your dog deserves the best nutrition, work with your veterinarian to pick a nutritionally solid dog food that works in your budget.

Sources

• https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-reviews/alpo-dog-food-dry/

Alpo Come & Get It Cookout Classics Review

While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.

1. Ground Yellow Corn is often used as an affordable source of energy. It provides protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, although it's not as easily digestible as some other grains.

2. Corn germ meal is a source of protein and energy, providing essential fatty acids and fiber to support your dog's digestion and overall health.

3. Beef and bone meal is a high-quality source of protein that also provides dogs with essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.

4. Soybean meal is a plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle growth and overall health, while also being highly digestible.

5. Beef Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of energy and fat-soluble vitamins, and tocopherols help keep the fat fresh and rancid-free.

6. Pork and bone meal is a high-quality protein source that supports muscle development and overall health in your dog.

7. Egg Flavor enhances the taste of the dog food, making it more palatable and enticing for dogs to eat.

8. Natural chicken flavor is a dog food ingredient used to enhance the taste and aroma of the product, making it more appealing to your pet. It is derived from real chicken and does not contain any artificial additives or chemicals. This natural flavoring helps encourage your dog to eat and enjoy their meals.

9. Natural flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appealing to your pet. This can help encourage your dog to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, supporting their overall health and well-being.

10. Corn gluten meal is a by-product of corn processing that serves as an alternative protein source for dogs. It is rich in essential amino acids, and it can also provide energy and support healthy skin and coat for your pet.

11. While salt is a necessary component of a dog's diet, providing essential minerals such as sodium and chloride for proper cellular function, it should be provided in moderation to avoid health issues like hypertension or kidney damage.

12. Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.

13. Choline Chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in brain and liver function, muscle movement, and supports healthy metabolic processes.

14. Zinc sulfate is a source of the essential mineral zinc, which supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall growth and development.

15. Ferrous sulfate is an important source of iron for dogs, a mineral essential for red blood cell production, oxygen transportation, and overall vitality. Adequate iron intake supports your dog's immune system and energy levels.

16. Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones, joints, and metabolism in dogs. It also supports the production of collagen, which is vital for healthy skin, coat, and connective tissues.

17. Copper sulfate is an essential trace mineral that supports various bodily functions in dogs, including immune system health, skin and coat maintenance, and red blood cell production.

18. Calcium iodate is a source of iodine, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's thyroid function and overall metabolism. It helps maintain proper hormone production and is crucial for overall health and well-being.

19. Sodium selenite is a form of selenium, a necessary trace mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health in dogs.

20. Natural grill flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appetizing for your furry friend. This flavoring is derived from natural sources and helps encourage even picky eaters to enjoy their meals.

21. Vitamin E supplement is an essential nutrient that helps support your dog's immune system, skin health, and overall wellness.

22. Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for a dog's metabolism and energy production, and supports healthy skin and coat.

23. Vitamin A Supplement is important for supporting vision, immune function, and skin health in dogs.

24. Calcium pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that helps support your dog's energy metabolism and nervous system function.

25. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a source of vitamin B6, which is essential for your dog's nervous system function, immune health, and red blood cell production.

26. Vitamin B12 Supplement is an essential vitamin that helps support brain function and the formation of red blood cells.

27. Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 that helps support your dog's nervous system function, energy metabolism, and overall health.

28. Vitamin D3 supplement is an essential vitamin that supports bone health, immune function, and overall well-being in dogs. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus balance in the body, promoting strong and healthy bones.

29. Riboflavin supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which is crucial for your dog's energy production, cell function, and overall growth and development.

30. Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a synthetic form of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in blood clotting and bone metabolism for your dog's overall health.

31. Folic acid is a crucial B-vitamin that aids in the synthesis of DNA and supports healthy cell growth. It's essential for maintaining your dog's overall health, particularly during periods of rapid growth.

32. Biotin is a B-vitamin that's important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails in dogs.

33. DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that supports your dog's overall health by promoting proper protein synthesis, maintaining healthy skin and coat, and aiding in the detoxification process.

34. L-lysine monohydrochloride is an essential amino acid that is crucial for protein synthesis, tissue repair, and the production of antibodies. It's a beneficial supplement that supports your dog's overall health.

35. L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid that helps to support your dog's mood and stress levels.

36. Red 40 is an artificial colorant that is added to some dog foods to make the product more visually appealing.

37. Yellow 5 is a synthetic dye used in dog foods for aesthetic purposes. It has no nutritional value.

38. Calcium carbonate is a valuable source of calcium, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth, and for supporting proper muscle function in your dog.

39. Blue 2 is an artificial colorant that is used to give dog food an appealing appearance. While it does not provide any nutritional value, it is generally considered safe for use in pet food when used within the recommended limits.

40. Yellow 6 is an artificial color added to dog food. While it is approved for use by the FDA, some owners prefer to avoid foods with artificial coloring.

41. Garlic oil contains natural compounds that can help support your dog's immune system and may act as a natural flea and tick repellent.

Crude Protein (min) of 18.00%: The crude protein content is primarily derived from the beef and bone meal, soybean meal, and pork and bone meal listed in the ingredients. These are all protein-rich ingredients that contribute to the overall protein content of the pet food. Corn gluten meal also contributes to the protein content, although it is a less complete protein compared to animal sources.

Crude Fat (min) of 8.50%: The crude fat in the pet food comes from the beef fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols and, to a lesser extent, from the meat meals such as beef and bone meal, and pork and bone meal. Fats are essential for energy, and the inclusion of beef fat helps to ensure that the product meets the minimum fat content required for a balanced diet for dogs.

Crude Fiber (max) of 6.00%: The crude fiber content is likely to come from the ground yellow corn and corn germ meal, as these plant-based ingredients are known to be good sources of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, and while it is not a nutrient that provides energy, it is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Calories of 3384.00 per kg: This value indicates the energy content of the food. The calories in this pet food come from the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates present in all the ingredients, with the main contributors being the ground yellow corn (carbohydrates), beef and bone meal, soybean meal, pork and bone meal (proteins), and beef fat (fats). The balance of these macronutrients determines the caloric content of the food.