how does kirkland dog food compare to other brands
Kirkland Dog Food (Cotsco): 2024 Reviews, Recalls & Coupons
Store-brand pet food products are usually deemed as cheap and low-quality. However, while these statements apply to numerous brands (and for a good reason), the Kirkland brand is the exception that many pet owners have been looking for.
Marketed as a super-premium pet food, Kirkland dog foods are made with quality ingredients like fresh meats, whole grain carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fresh fruits and vegetables. In other words, their dog food has everything a dog needs to stay healthy.
I've checked their formulas very thoroughly, and, more importantly, my dogs seemed to enjoy their food very much.
That said, from my experience, when looking for a quality brand of dog food that wont break the bank, the Kirkland signature dog food is a great option to consider.
Who Makes Kirkland Dog Food?
Before I get on with my Kirkland dog food review, let me clarify a few important things.
Kirkland dog food is made specifically by the Costco brand and sold exclusively in Costco stores. However, while it's made for Costco, it is actually produced and manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods, Inc., one of the largest pet food manufacturers in the country.
You will also be glad to know that Costco recently reformulated some of their recipes to include probiotics for digestive support.
Diamond Pet Foods is the same company that produces other popular pet food brands including Taste of the Wild, Solid Gold, Premium Edge, and Artemis.
Kirkland Dog Food Products
Kirkland offers two lines of products labeled as Super Premium or Nature's Domain. Both come in dry and canned versions, with the latter being limited to just one option per product range.
Super Premium products are formulated for puppies, adult dogs, mature dogs, and dogs who need to lose some weight, with chicken being the primary ingredient.
As for Nature's Domain range, it consists of grain-free recipes, which feature quality proteins like the salmon meal, turkey, organic chicken, and beef.
Kirkland Super Premium Dry Food Recipes:
- Puppy Chicken, Rice & Vegetable Formula
- Adult Dog Chicken, Rice & Vegetable Formula
- Adult Dog Lamb, Rice & Vegetable Formula
- Small Dog Chicken, Rice & Vegetable Formula
- Mature Dog Chicken, Rice & Egg Formula
- Healthy Weight Formula with Chicken & Vegetables
Natures Domain Dry Food Recipes:
- Turkey Meal & Sweet Potato
- Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato
- Beef Meal & Sweet Potato
- Organic Chicken & Pea
- Organic Chicken with Vegetables
- Puppy Chicken & Pea
- Small Breed Salmon & Lentil
Canned Recipes:
- Super Premium Canned Formula for Dogs
- Natures Domain Turkey & Pea Stew for Dogs
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Kirkland Dog Food Reviews
According to the Kirkland website, all of Kirklands dog food products are designed to meet all of the nutritional needs of your special pet.
Made with the highest quality ingredients like fresh meat and whole grains these products nourish your dogs body from the inside out.
IMAGE | PRODUCT |
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Kirkland Signature Super Premium Lamb, Rice & Vegetable
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Kirkland Signature Mature Formula Chicken, Rice and Egg
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Kirkland Signature Puppy Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable
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Kirkland Signature Healthy Weight Formula Chicken & Vegetable
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Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Turkey Meal and Sweet Potato
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Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato
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Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Organic Chicken & Pea
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Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Beef Meal & Sweet Potato
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Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Turkey & Pea Stew
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I have to say that Kirkland has some of the best and most healthy formulas I've seen among dog food brands. Not only do they use fresh and only high-quality ingredients, but each recipe is enriched with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, as well as probiotics.
Of course, there are certainly ways in which these products could be improved. Still, for the most part, they are nutritionally balanced.
Reviewed Kirkland Dog Foods
- Kirkland Signature Super Premium Lamb, Rice & Vegetable
- Kirkland Signature Mature Formula Chicken, Rice and Egg
- Kirkland Signature Puppy Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable
- Kirkland Signature Healthy Weight Formula Chicken & Vegetable
- Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Turkey Meal and Sweet Potato
- Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato
- Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Organic Chicken & Pea
- Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Beef Meal & Sweet Potato
- Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Turkey & Pea Stew
1. Kirkland Signature Super Premium Lamb, Rice & Vegetable
Rating: 4/5 stars
First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Rice Bran
Guaranteed Analysis:
This Kirkland Signature Super Premium Lamb, Rice & Vegetable recipe is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of adult dogs. With real lamb as the main ingredient, this formula is rich in both protein and natural flavor.
It features whole-grain carbohydrates, providing many dogs with excellent digestibility. The formula is also supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and probiotics.
All in all, this recipe is made using select ingredients for consistency, wholesomeness and optimal nutrition, and I have to admit that it's precisely what it provides.
The first ingredient is fresh lamb. The second is lamb meal, which has already been cooked to remove the moisture fresh lamb contains. This ensures the meat volume doesn't change during processing.
These two ingredients combine to ensure that this formula remains rich in high-quality animal protein.
The third ingredient in this Kirkland signature adult formula is whole grain brown rice, followed by ground white rice and rice bran. Rice is highly digestible for most dogs, but because it is a grain, it may cause problems for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
I've also noticed that this formula contains fiber supplements like dried beet pulp and dried chicory root. There are also a number of fresh fruits and vegetables.
The main source of fat in this product is chicken fat. While it may not sound appetizing to you, chicken fat is highly nutritious for dogs and a concentrated source of energy. It is supplemented by the omega-3 content of the flaxseed and the natural fat content of the lamb, lamb meal, and fish meal.
The remaining ingredients in this recipe consist primarily of extracts, natural flavors, and supplements. This recipe contains a number of synthetic supplements, including chelated minerals which have been chemically bound to protein molecules to increase their absorption rate.
It is also worth mentioning that the fresh fruits and veggies used in this recipe act as natural sources for key nutrients. Finally, there are also dried fermentation products acting as probiotics to support your dogs digestion.
This Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Lamb, Rice & Vegetable recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance.
Key Takeaways
When comparing Kirkland Signature Super Premium Lamb, Rice & Vegetable dog food against other brands, there are a few key factors to consider. One major advantage of Kirkland dog food is that it is made with high-quality, natural ingredients, including real lamb as the first ingredient. This makes it a healthier and more nutritious option for dogs compared to many other brands that use fillers or artificial additives.
Another key advantage of Kirkland dog food is its affordability. Despite the high quality of the ingredients, this brand is priced competitively with other mid-range dog food brands. This makes it an excellent option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet without breaking the bank.
When compared to other premium dog food brands, such as Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild, Kirkland dog food offers similar levels of nutrition and quality, but at a lower price point. Additionally, many pet owners agree that their dogs enjoy the taste of this dog food and experience improved health and vitality after switching to this brand.
Overall, this product is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a nutritious, high-quality diet at an affordable price. While there are certainly other premium dog food brands available, few offer the same combination of quality, nutrition, and value as this one.
Best for: Adult dogs without allergies and grain sensitivities.
What we like:
- A high-quality source of protein-rich nutrition
- Top-quality and fresh ingredients, including fresh lamb and lamb meal as the primary ingredients
- Contains highly nutritious chicken fat
What we don't like:
- Dried beet pulp and brewer's dried yeast might be questionable for some
- Not recommended for dogs with grain sensitivities
2. Kirkland Signature Mature Formula Chicken, Rice and Egg
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Egg Product, Oatmeal
Guaranteed Analysis:
I don't have to tell you that older dogs need particular care to maintain their health, energy, and cognitive functions. This Mature Dog formula is crafted exactly for that.
With fresh chicken and chicken meal as two primary ingredients followed by egg product and fish meal, this formula is a perfect protein blend. Indeed, the protein levels here are above average, standing at 27%.
I know that some of you might be worried about the chicken meal. Don't. Its a perfectly good ingredient that even high-end brands utilize. Chicken meal is just chicken that has most of its water content removed.
What I've also noticed is that it's not a grain-free recipe, and that's all right. Grains are not fillers or as harmful as many suppose.
Your dog can get quite an array of nutrients from grains such as protein, vitamins B and E, carbohydrates, and lots of minerals. And those included here (barley, brown rice, white rice, and oatmeal) are some of the best types of grains to feed your dog.
And also, dogs are omnivores. They thrive on grain food formulas as much as they thrive on grain-free ones. (If you see grain-free diets, they just remove the grains but put alternatives in place. Thats because carbohydrates which all grains contain are one of the essentials in dog foods, aside from protein and fat.)
Chicken fat provides the fat content of this meal, improving the overall taste and making the food more palatable to dogs.
What I love about this recipe is that it also contains superfoods such as cranberries and kelp, as well as wholesome ingredients like apples, peas, and carrots. The use of fresh veggies, fruits, and seaweed provides dogs with natural sources of key nutrients, although there are also supplemental ones added in.
Key takeaways
As dogs age, their bones become more brittle and cartilages thinner. This results in pain and reduced mobility. This Kirkland mature dog food formula provides much-needed pain relief, helping mature dogs maintain healthier and more energized life.
One of the key features of Kirkland Signature Mature Formula is its focus on supporting the health and well-being of senior dogs. As dogs age, their nutritional needs change, and this formula is specifically designed to cater to those needs. It is fortified with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, probiotics and antioxidants, to support overall health, immune function, and energy levels in older dogs.
The inclusion of real chicken as the main protein source in this formula is a notable highlight. Chicken is a lean source of protein that provides essential amino acids to support muscle maintenance and repair. Additionally, the use of rice and egg as carbohydrate sources in this formula provides easily digestible energy for senior dogs, which is important for maintaining their energy levels and vitality.
Kirkland Signature Mature Formula also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which are beneficial for senior dogs' joint health. These ingredients help to support joint mobility and reduce the risk of age-related joint issues, such as arthritis. This is particularly important for senior dogs that may experience joint discomfort or stiffness due to aging.
Furthermore, this dog food is free of artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, making it a healthier option for senior dogs with dietary sensitivities. The natural ingredients in this formula promote optimal digestion and can be easily absorbed by senior dogs' aging digestive systems.
Best for: Mature dogs without grain insensitivities.
What we like:
- Above-average protein level (27%)
- Provides a moderate level of comfort to older dogs, especially to the dog's joints and bones
- Multiple grains as a source of important nutrients, including carbohydrates and minerals
What we don't like:
- Not suitable for dogs with grain insensitivities
3. Kirkland Signature Puppy Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product
Guaranteed Analysis:
When puppies grow, their young bodies try to develop as fast as possible. This growth spurt requires a lot of nutrients so that they can grow properly. It can be a critical time and what you feed your pups during this stage can influence their physical bodies and cognitive skills later on.
This recipe is designed especially for the puppy stage, where little dogs are more energetic and inquisitive. The protein content (at 28%) is higher than those found in Kirklands adult formulas.
This is thanks to the combination of chicken, chicken meal, egg product, and fish meal, although a percentage of the total crude protein is contributed by grains brown rice and barley.
The two grains help keep a puppy's energy level high, as well as help its digestive system get accustomed to solid food, keeping it feeling full longer.
Chicken fat, salmon oil, and flaxseed contribute to the fat content. Chicken fat is laden with omega-6 fatty acids, while salmon oil and flaxseed are rich in omega-6 as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
These strengthen your puppy's immune system and help its heart, skin, coat, and cognitive function. They also contain anti-inflammatory properties to reduce itching and help with wound healing.
Dried beet pulp and brewer's yeast are also included in this puppy food formula. I know they might catch your attention, but these are a natural source of key nutrients for a growing dog's body.
For me, however, the most important is the inclusion of fresh fruits and greens, like carrots, peas, apples, and cranberries. The formula also includes dried kelp, which provides tons of amino acids, minerals, and vitamins.
What will also ease your mind is that this formula is crafted according to the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile. I find it extremely important, as it ensures the product is nutritionally complete for little furries.
Key takeaways
This puppy formula offers a premium and nutritionally balanced option for puppies compared to other leading brands in the market.
It stands out as a cost-effective option without compromising on quality, making it a favorable choice for budget-conscious puppy owners. The carefully selected ingredients, including essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, support the immune system, brain development, and overall well-being of growing puppies. The focus on digestive health and the promotion of healthy skin, coat, teeth, and vision make it a comprehensive option for supporting puppies' overall health and growth.
As a trusted brand known for its commitment to quality and safety in pet food, Kirkland offers a reliable choice for puppy owners who prioritize their furry friend's nutrition. By providing essential nutrients for optimal growth and development, this can be a beneficial addition to a puppy's diet.
In comparison to other leading brands, Kirkland Signature Puppy Formula offers a competitive option with its high-quality ingredients, affordability, and nutritional completeness. Puppy owners can confidently choose Kirkland Puppy Formula as a reliable and cost-effective choice for their growing puppies' nutritional needs.
Best for: Growing puppies.
What we like:
- High protein content (28%), ensuring healthy growth during the puppy stage
- High level of omega-6 and omega 3- fatty acids provided by chicken fat, flaxseed, and salmon oil
- Manufactured according to the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile
What we don't like:
- Fried beet pulp and brewer's yeast may raise a few eyebrows
4. Kirkland Signature Healthy Weight Formula Chicken & Vegetable
Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Millet
Guaranteed Analysis:
Dogs that are prone to weight gain or are already overweight might find their perfect food in the Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Formula. It is specially designed to be light on the calories but heavy on taste and nutrition so your dog wont miss a thing.
Like all of Kirklands Signature meals, this healthy-weight dog formula is based on chicken. The first ingredient is chicken meal, supported by fresh chicken, grains, and peas.
There are a bit more grains here when compared to other Super Premium diets. But thats all right since these grains are considered as some of the healthiest. Brown rice, for example, is low in fat but high in protein and fiber. Barley is much the same, while oatmeal contains a healthy amount of vitamin B and omega-6 fatty acids
Speaking of grains, I've noticed that there are a bit more of them compared to other Super Premium dog food formulas. Grains are essential in this diet because they provide some carbs to keep your dog lively, and they also contribute a significant amount of fiber.
Usually, dog foods will contain around 2%-5% of fiber. In this product, however, it's 13%, providing excellent support for managing the weight of overweight dogs. The fiber makes them feel full even when given a low-calorie meal.
Additionally, higher levels of fiber support healthy digestion, keeping blood sugar from spiking.
I also love the addition of fresh fruits and vegetables here in the form of apples, carrots, and cranberries. Added vitamins and minerals supplement the nutrients naturally found in the whole ingredients.
Key takeaways
Kirkland's healthy weight dog food is perfect for dogs prone to putting on a few pounds. It has key nutrients that support everything from your dogs nose to his tail. For example, It contains chondroitin and glucosamine to support bones and joints that might be stressed from the pressure that a dogs extra weight puts on them.
There are probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (food for beneficial bacteria) to help your dog develop a healthy digestive system that is essential to maintaining a good weight. And lastly, it has the right levels of antioxidants and nutrients to keep your dogs body working properly.
Best for: Overweight dogs requiring a more strict diet.
What we like:
- Each cup of food only contains 275b calories to aid your dog in returning to a lean and peak body condition
- Made of fresh and high-quality ingredients
- Contains all the necessary nutrients that support healthy digestion
What we don't like:
- High amount of grains (not suitable for dogs with allergies and grain insensitivities)
5. Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Turkey Meal and Sweet Potato
Rating: 4/5
First 5 ingredients: Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Canola Oil
Guaranteed Analysis:
Kirkland Signatures Natures Domain range comes with several differences from the Kirkland dog food formulas from the Super Premium range. The first thing I've noticed is that the main animal ingredient here is turkey instead of chicken. There are also no grains.
Turkey meal leads the list of ingredients for good quality protein. It is easy to digest and highly palatable. Its meal form also contains more proteins compared to fresh turkey. The peas in the recipe offer further support as plant-based proteins.
As said, there are no grains in this formula. Instead, this Kirkland's formula includes potatoes and sweet potatoes to provide carbohydrate content. Both are excellent sources of fiber, with sweet potatoes also being full of vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as calcium, iron, and potassium.
To support fat content, Kirkland put canola and salmon oil into the mixture. I have to admit I was a bit surprised by the inclusion of canola oil. I do find it a bit controversial since it's highly processed. It does contain several beneficial nutrients, with canola oil being a vitamin E supplement.
Salmon oil is much better since it is more natural and contains a lot of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for the skin, coat, heart, and immune system.
Key takeaways
Kirkland Signature Natures Domain Turkey Meal & Sweet Potato offers a balanced and complete meal for the overall vitality and health of your adult pooches. It supports everything about your dog, from his hair to his digestive system.
Probiotics and prebiotics are present here to create a healthy environment in your dogs digestive system. It is complete with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and high-quality proteins.
The only thing I'm not a fan of is the canola oil. It's highly processed and lacks the nutritious properties of other ingredients in the recipe. Still, I do think this is a great recipe for dogs that cannot eat grains.
Best for: More active and bigger adult dogs.
What we like:
- Balanced meal that improves a dog's vitality, health, and energy levels
- High in fiber thanks to potatoes and sweet potatoes included in the recipe
- Excellent for dogs that can't eat grains
What we don't like:
- Includes highly processed canola oil which lacks the nutritious properties compared to salmon oil and other ingredients in the formula
6. Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon & Sweet Potato
Rating: 4/5
First 5 ingredients: Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Canola Oil
Guaranteed Analysis:
Another formula from Kirkland's Nature's Domain range is The Salmon & Sweet Potato, crafted for dogs of all ages, from little pups to senior pooches. As its name suggests, salmon is the main animal ingredient in the meal. A fantastic choice, in my opinion.
Salmon is a fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These are responsible for the lustrous hair od dogs. These natural fatty acids are also great at reducing inflammation or itching, supporting the immune system, and generally keeping your dogs skin healthy.
The first ingredient here is a salmon meal, which itself is already a good source of protein. It's supported by ocean fish meal, which lends even more animal protein to the food. These two are followed by plant-based ingredients (mainly peas), raising the overall protein levels up to 24%.
To provide your dog with much-needed carbohydrates, Kirkland added potatoes, sweet potatoes, and potato fiber into the formula. Carbohydrates are quick sources of energy, while fiber keeps the digestive system functioning properly.
Canola oil provides the main fat content in the recipe. That's something many, including myself, may not overly fancy. While safe for dogs, canola oil is highly processed and refined, so it may not be the best choice if you want dog food to be 100% natural.
On the other hand, canola is rich in omega-9 fatty acids, has a good amount of omega-6s, and contains omega-3s. Its also a good source of vitamin E and vitamin K. It has also been reported to lower cholesterol and improve weight control in animals.
Key takeaways
This is a high-quality dog food formula that offers a grain-free option for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. Its main protein source, real salmon, provides essential amino acids for muscle development and overall health, while sweet potatoes offer a source of healthy carbohydrates.
The formula is made with natural ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. It provides a well-rounded and balanced nutrition for dogs, making it a popular choice among pet owners seeking a wholesome and nutritious diet for their furry friends.
However, I would prefer Kirkland to use a better oil than canola. I know it can provide a significant amount of benefits, but there are other more natural and less processed oils that can give the same benefits. For example, fish oils and coconut oil are some of the healthiest.
Best for: All dogs, no matter the age and size.
What we like:
- A very high level of natural omega-3 and 6 fatty acids
- Salmon as the primary ingredient and the source of protein
- Suitable for all dogs
What we don't like:
- Highly processed canola oil as the main source of fat (fish or coconut oil would be much better and more natural choices)
7. Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Organic Chicken & Pea
Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic peas, organic lentils, organic garbanzo beans, organic sweet potatoes
Guaranteed Analysis:
This Natures Domain recipe is crafted for adult dogs and made with premium and organic ingredients. That said, you won't find any GMO products, human-made fertilizers, pesticides, or growth regulators.
The first ingredient here is organic chicken, providing the highest amount of protein. What surprised me at first was the fact that chicken is the only animal-based ingredient in this formula. The rest of the primary ingredients are made entirely of vegetables.
Therefore, the protein content of the chicken is further supported by the presence of organic peas, organic lentils, and organic garbanzo beans.
Organic potatoes and sweet potatoes are responsible for the carbohydrate content, acting as a source of energy for your dog. And since carbs are more easily broken down than protein, they can provide canines with quick bursts of energy for intense short-term workouts and play.
Fat comes from organic canola oil and flaxseed. Flaxseed is high in fatty acids and rich in omega-3s. Its a nice addition to any dog meal because its also laden with magnesium and vitamin B1.
Now for the organic canola oil. I know that throughout this review, I haven't been an advocate for adding canola oil to dog food. However, that goes for NON-ORGANIC canola oil. In this recipe, the brand uses only ORGANIC canola oil.
Unlike non-organic canola oil, the organic one is expressed without using chemical solvents. Therefore, it comes with all the canola oil benefits, such as omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, as well as vitamins E and K, providing it a healthier way.
Key takeaways
In my opinion, this is an excellent recipe for younger dogs that require an energy boost. I love the use of natural and organic ingredients in this pet food. It's a perfect statement that proves that the brand is committed to bringing only high-quality food to pets and pet owners alike.
In my opinion, this is an excellent recipe for younger dogs that require an energy boost. I love the use of natural and organic ingredients in this pet food. It's a perfect statement that proves that the brand is committed to bringing only high-quality food to pets and pet owners alike.
Overall, the formula offers a balanced diet that blends taste and nutrition quite well. The lack of fruits or other greens may raise a few eyebrows, but the presence of dried kelp and supplemental vitamins and minerals provide increased nutrition levels.
Best for: Young and active adult dogs.
What we like:
- Consists of fresh, high-quality, and 100% organic ingredients
- Offers a balanced diet that provides younger dogs with plenty of energy
- Rich in natural fatty acids, magnesium, as well as vitamins B1, E, and K
What we don't like:
- It could include more fruits and vegetables
8. Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Beef Meal & Sweet Potato
Rating: 4/5
First 5 ingredients: Beef Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Canola Oil
Guaranteed Analysis:
If your dog suffers from grain insensitivity or allergies, Kirkland has a grain-free alternative in its Nature's Domain range. This grain-free is carefully designed to meet all the nutritional requirements of dogs of all ages.
The recipe is led by beef meal, a more protein-dense form of meat. However, while most of the protein comes from the beef meal, its volume is supported by plant-based proteins, as well.
In this formula, plant-based proteins come from peas, garbanzo beans, tomato pomace, and potato protein, all contributing to a total of 24% protein content. Whats more, these ingredients also contain fiber, vitamin A, folate, iron, thiamine, vitamin C, etc.
Sweet potatoes provide the most amount of carbohydrates, although some come from the plant ingredients mentioned above. Carbs in dog food play many roles, with the main being an energy boost. They also create texture in the food and provide canines with fiber.
Canola oil and salmon oil provide the necessary fat content. And while I love the addition of salmon oil (high in EPA and DHA fatty acids), I'm not a fan of canola oil here (what a surprise, right?).
As I've mentioned several times in this review, while it does provide several benefits, canola oil is highly processed (unless it's organic canola oil), and therefore it lacks the nutritious properties of fish and natural oils.
Key takeaways
If it weren't for the canola oil used in this formula, I'd give it the highest rating. All in all, it's a perfect mix of meat, veggies, fruits, and fat to provide your canine friend with all the nutrients it needs. There are, however, healthier and natural alternatives to canola oil, such as fish oil (which, ironically, this formula also uses).
Nevertheless, in my opinion, this recipe seems good overall. It uses a quality protein source. It has plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It has prebiotics and probiotics. Lastly, and unlike some Natures Domain recipes, this one contains a nice helping of superfoods like raspberries and blueberries.
Best for: Dogs with allergies and grain insensitivities.
What we like:
- Free from grains and therefore perfect for dogs with grain insensitivities and allergies
- A great source of protein
- Contains superfoods like raspberries and blueberries
What we don't like:
- Includes processed canola oil, which isn't the best source of fat content available
9. Kirkland Signature Natures Domain Turkey & Pea Stew for Dogs
Rating: 5/5 stars
Ingredients: Turkey and Pea Stew
Guaranteed Analysis:
This Kirkland Signature Natures Domain Turkey & Pea Stew is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements for both puppies and adult dogs. It is a protein-rich formula made with digestible carbohydrates and plenty of healthy nutrients.
And in my personal opinion and experience, it's by far the best addition to Nature's Domain range.
With turkey as the main ingredient, you can rest assured that this formula will be full of meat and natural meat flavor that your dog will find absolutely irresistible. It is also free from corn, wheat, and soy ingredients, as well as any artificial additives.
The main source of protein here is turkey. Another animal protein source is dried egg product, with the rest being plant-based in the form of peas and agar-agar.
Peas are an energy-rich carbohydrate ingredient while also being both gluten-free and grain-free. You will also notice several fresh fruits and vegetables in this canned food, which is always a nice addition if you were to ask me.
These inclusions act as supplementary sources of dietary fiber as well as natural sources for key vitamins and minerals. There are some synthetic supplements to help fill in the nutritional gaps as well.
Key takeaways
Overall, this recipe is a quality source of balanced nutrition for dogs in all life stages, from puppy to adult dog. It features protein-rich turkey as the main ingredient, with dried egg products for supplementary protein.
Cooked in both turkey broth and vegetable broth, this moisture-rich formula is also rich in natural flavor. For carbohydrates, this formula relies primarily on fresh peas, though there are other fruits and vegetables as well, all providing supplementary fiber, key vitamins, and minerals.
Best for: All dogs.
What we like:
- Made of fresh and top-quality ingredients led by turkey
- Quality source of balanced nutrition for all dogs, from puppy to senior
- Includes chelated minerals to make them more biologically valuable for dogs
What we don't like:
- Consistency too soupy/watery
Kirkland Dog Food Recall List
Kirkland doesnt provide a great deal of detail about where or how their products are made except to say that they are manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods in company-owned facilities. There is some mention of testing protocols for ingredients but if you really want details youll have to go to the Diamond Pet Foods website.
The fact that Kirkland is manufactured by a separate company is not necessarily a bad thing, but you should know that Diamond Pet Foods has an expansive history of recalls, some of which have affected the Kirkland brand in particular. Here are the details of those recalls:
- In April 2007, the FDA issued a recall for Kirkland Signature Premium Dog 2-Flavor Variety Packs due to potential melamine contamination.
- In May 2012, the FDA issued a recall for several Kirkland Signature pet food products due to potential salmonella contamination. This recall included several runs of Super Premium Adult Dog food, several Super Premium cat foods, and one Natures Domain recipe.
Kirkland Dog Food Coupons 2024
Kirkland dog food products are exclusively at Costco so you can only purchase them in Costco stores or on the Costco website. Costco frequently offers coupons on its website and you can sign up for the company newsletter using your email address to receive special offers. Because Kirkland is a store brand, you are unlikely to find Kirkland dog food coupons from individual retailers other than Costco.
Tips on Saving Money on Kirkland Dog Food:
- Visit Costco's Coupon page
- Download Costco's Coupon App
- Sign up for Coupons via their mailing list @ the bottom of the coupon page.
- Follow Costco on Facebook for Coupon Alerts
Final Verdict on Kirkland Signature Dog Food
Although store-brand dog food products don't have the brightest reputation (often for a good reason), Kirkland is an exception to that rule. Indeed, in my opinion, it's one of the best dog food brands for that value of money.
All of Kirkland's products are made of fresh and quality ingredients, with several recipes being hundred percent natural. The only thing I don't like about their products is the addition of processed canola oil in some formulas.
Sure, it isn't harmful to canines, and it does provide some great benefits, but there are many other more natural and healthier alternatives, especially fish oil.
Furthermore, Kirkland Signature offers a wide variety of formulas to cater to different life stages, sizes, and dietary preferences of dogs, providing options for puppies, adult dogs, senior dogs, and dogs with specific dietary needs. This versatility makes this brand suitable for a wide range of dogs, from puppies to seniors, and from small to large breeds.
All in all, Kirkland is a reliable brand. It is a trusted brand that delivers on its promise of providing nutritious and affordable pet food options for dogs. With its emphasis on quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and affordability, Kirkland Signature is a top choice for pet owners looking to provide their dogs with wholesome and healthy meals.
Sure, it falls short of the super-premium brands, but if you're looking for more economical dog food, Kirkland is a brand I can honestly recommend.