is wholehearted a good dog food brand
WholeHearted Grain Free Dog Food Review (Dry)
The WholeHearted Grain Free product line includes the 17 dry dog foods listed below.
Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Recipe and Label Analysis
WholeHearted Senior Chicken was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
Ingredients Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.
After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.
The second ingredient is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
The third ingredient is peas. Peas are a quality source of carbohydrates. And like all legumes, theyre rich in natural fiber.
However, peas contain about 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.
The fourth ingredient is pea flour, a powder made from roasted yellow peas. Pea flour contains as much as 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.
The fifth ingredient includes lentils. Lentils are a quality source of carbohydrates. Plus (like all legumes) theyre rich in natural fiber.
However, lentils contain about 25% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
The sixth ingredient is flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.
However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
The seventh ingredient is tomato pomace. Tomato pomace is a controversial ingredient, a by-product remaining after processing tomatoes into juice, soup and ketchup.
Many praise tomato pomace for its high fiber and nutrient content, while others scorn it as an inexpensive pet food filler.
Just the same, theres probably not enough tomato pomace here to make much of a difference.
The eighth ingredient is chicken fat. Chicken fat is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.
Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.
The ninth ingredient is natural flavors. Natural flavors doesnt give us much information about the particular ingredients included in this dog food for flavoring purposes.
Were pleased that the flavorings used are natural, but more details are required to give any further information about these natural flavoring ingredients. Flavorings are used to make the foods more appealing and tasty for our dogs.
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this product.
With 5 notable exceptions
First, taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.
We view the presence of Taurine in this recipe as a positive addition.
Next chicory root. Chicory is rich in , a starch-like compound made up of repeating units of carbohydrates and found in certain roots and tubers.
Not only is inulin a natural source of soluble dietary fiber, its also a used to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in a dogs digestive tract.
In addition, we note the inclusion of dried fermentation products in this recipe. Fermentation products are typically added as probiotics to aid with digestion.
This recipe also includes sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.
And lastly, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, WholeHearted Grain Free Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 30%, a fat level of 11% and estimated carbohydrates of about 51%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 29% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 48% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Near-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
When you consider the protein-boosting effect of the lentils, and flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat.
WholeHearted Dog Food Recall History
The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to WholeHearted through April 2024.
No recalls noted.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.
WholeHearted Dog Food Review: Hearty Dog Food Recipes
As a dog owner who values nutrition, weve foundWholeHearted dog food to be a top choice. It offers quality ingredients and a variety of options.
This review will provide a quick yet informative look at why WholeHearted might be the right choice for your furry friend.
Company Quick Overview
- Parent company: PetCo
- Founded in: August 2016
- Available at: PetCo and Unleashed by PetCo locations
- Product range: Grain-free and grain-inclusive wet/canned food, dry dog good, dog treats, and food toppers for all breeds, puppies, seniors, and all life stages
- Real meat in the first 5 ingredients: Yes
- Recalled in the past: No
Behind the Brand
You might be familiar with the pet retail giant PetCo, boasting over 1,400 locations across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. One of their exclusive offerings is WholeHearted Dog Food.
PetCo, with a history spanning over 50 years of serving pets and their owners, provides a diverse range of pet products and services to promote the well-being of furry companions. Among these offerings is WholeHearted.
Introduced to the market on August 22, 2016, WholeHearted is a product line developed in-house by PetCo's team of product innovation and nutrition experts. This budget-friendly line includes cat and dog meals, treats, and dental care chews made from wholesome, high-quality ingredients tailored to all breeds and ages.
In response to discerning customers, PetCo ensures a broad array of options within the WholeHearted dog food range, offering wet and dry varieties, as well as grain-free, grain inclusive, active performance and weight management recipes, totaling over 50 selections.
Petco WholeHearted Dog Food Reviews
1. WholeHearted All Life Stages Salmon & Pea Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Salmon, Salmon Meal, Lentils, Pea Flour, Chickpeas
Protein: 26.0% min
Fat: 15.0% min
Fiber: 5.0% max
Moisture: 10.0% max
Food Type: Dry
Best for: All Breeds, All Life Stages
Special Diet: Grain-free
Made for all life stages, this dry kibble claims to provide complete and balanced nutrition.
Its ingredient list puts salmon and salmon meal as the first items both being a good source of protein and Omega 3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
Since it is a grain free all life stages formula, it does not contain corn, wheat, and other grains. This diet type is a good choice if your doggo is suffering from food allergies or is sensitive to wheat and gluten.
It is noteworthy that this dry food also includes canine probiotics and antioxidants. The former helps improve your dogs digestive health, while the latter promotes healthy immunity.
A best-seller, based on user reviews alone, this recipe have an overall rating of 4.7 on their website. Many reviews were impressed with this recipe when it comes to its flavor, price, and health benefits. However, wed have to deduct points.
Select dog foods in WholeHearteds product line (this one included) contain lentils, peas, and chickpeas. Yes, legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and other vitamins.
However, a dog meal with high-quality animal protein sources in its first three ingredients is considered a better choice.
You may have also heard aboutFDAs investigationson the possible link between legumes and potatoes to DCM or canine dilated cardiomyopathy an enlargement of the heart caused by a disease in the dogs heart muscles.
Since the connection between the heart condition and legumes/potatoes is not yet fully understood,we dont suggest throwing away bags of food that contain these in their ingredient list.
However, to be safe, we recommend looking for dry dog food brands that do not include legumes and sweet potatoes as their first three ingredients.
2. WholeHearted Chicken and Pea Puppy Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Chickpeas, Lentils
Protein: 28.0% min
Fat: 17.0% min
Fiber: 5.0% max
Moisture: 10.0% max
Food Type: Dry
Best for: Puppy, All Breeds
Another favorite from PetCo, is this meal that is specifically made for a growing puppy. This dry puppy food contains high-quality food items, canine probiotics (like dried chicory root), and Omega 3 fatty acids. Plus, it boasts real chicken and the second ingredient is chicken meal.
This chicken and pea formula dry dog food contains legumes (which makes this similar to other dry pet foods when it comes to their amount of carbs). Legumes are commonly used as replacements for grains and are usually found in grain-free dry dog food.
While we dont often recommend foods with peas or other legumes in the first three spots of the primary ingredients list, we cant ignore the good things that pet parents have been saying about this chicken and pea formula.
Compared to expensive grain-free dog food products, this formula comes with an affordable price tag. Fur moms and dads also vouch for this recipes quality and benefits.
A pet food formula that mentions the specific types of meat and fat ingredients used in its recipe (like this one) gets a plus in our books. With this, you are assured that your dog is eating real meat and not just animal by-products.
3. WholeHearted All Life Stages Beef and Brown Rice Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Beef, Beef Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Millet
Protein: 23.0% min
Fat: 14% min
Fiber: 5.0% max
Moisture: 10.0% max
Food Type: Dry
Best for: All Life Stages, All Breeds
Created for dogs of all ages, this beef and brown rice recipe dry food also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and canine probiotics. Instead of salmon, its first ingredients are beef and beef meal a high-quality source of protein.
Unlike the first two dry dog food options, wholesome grains (minus corn and wheat) are added to the mixture.
We thought it was good to add a grain-inclusive option to the list since some pet parents prefer this type. Grains also contain a chunk of nutrients that reduce the risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
It is also a good source of insoluble fiber, which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Grain-inclusive pet food recipes like this one are an excellent choice, especially if your dog is not suffering from any type of grain allergy.
Ph.D. pet nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Adolpheonce mentioned that grains are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals like Selenium, Magnesium, and Iron that support digestive health.
This dry dog food also gets plus points for using high-quality whole grains (like brown rice and millet) that contain dietary fiber, B vitamins, and iron (natural nutrients that are not commonly found in refined grains). Corn, a type of whole grain that provides empty calories, is also excluded from the formula.
While this contains canola oil, we cant ignore the fact that this recipe is loaded with other natural ingredients (like salmon oil and flaxseed). Its also worth mentioning that this formula does not include lentils in its first 3 ingredients.
4. WholeHearted Grain-Free Boiled Chicken Dinner
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water, Carrots, Pumpkin
Protein: 8% min
Fat: 2% min
Fiber: 1% max
Moisture: 85% max
Food Type: Wet, Canned
Best for: Adult, All Breeds
Special Diet: Grain-free
Fun fact:Any dog prefers canned or wet dog food. A high-quality canned food that offers adequate amounts of protein and fat? Even better! This healthy dog food for adults is filled with easily digestible protein that promotes healthy digestion.
Beneficial ingredients (minus grains) and vitamins and minerals are also blended into the concoction to help your dog achieve a balanced nutrition.
Despite the fillers, this healthy food is still a solid choice for adult dogs since it has real meat and vegetables listed as its top-five ingredients.
Chicken, as we know by now, is a good protein source and is loaded with Omega 6 fatty acids. These essential nutrients supply dogs with the energy they need for the day ahead and help them develop healthy bones, skin, and coats.
Carrots and pumpkin are also blended into this formula. Youve probably heard your mom say that these veggies are good for your eyesight. The same goes for your dogs.
Specially made for growing pups, this wet food is created with an irresistible flavor that both large and small breed dogs will like. It also states that it contains protein levels that are ideal for this life stage.
A puppy recipe that got high independent reviews from fur babies and pet owners alike for its reasonable price tag, delectable taste, and health benefits, this quality dog food deserves a second look.
Aside from having protein-rich meat primary sources, this recipe includes various vitamins and supplements that promote balanced nutrition.
The downside about this product is that it contains certain ingredients such as peas, potato starch, and pea protein. Since they are not included in the top items in its ingredient list, you can be assured that youll only find small amounts of these.
However, its still best if you can speak to your vet in case you plan to change your dogs diet or anything about what your dog needs.
5. WholeHearted Chicken and Vegetable Puppy Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Fish Broth, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product
Protein: 9.0% min
Fat: 4.5% min
Fiber: 1.5% max
Moisture: 80% max
Food Type: Wet, Canned
Best for: Puppy, All Breeds
Special Diet: Grain-free
Specially made for growing pups, this grain-free meal with chicken and veggies is created with an irresistible flavor that all dog breeds and even picky eaters will like.
This puppy formula provides your young canine with the necessary energy crucial for their growth phase, thanks to its optimal protein content.
Crafted for puppies of all breeds, this canned food boasts a delectable flavor and enticing texture, allowing you to express your affection with every mouthful.
In addition to featuring protein-packed meats among its initial five components, this puppy food incorporates a blend of vitamins and supplements to enhance overall nutritional balance.
However, it's worth noting that this product also contains peas, potato starch, and pea protein. Since these ingredients are not among the first 5 listed, their presence in the formula is guaranteed minimal.
Is WholeHearted Made in the USA?
Yes, but when it comes to their dog food's ingredients, PetCo provides limited information about their sources. The pack simply mentions that the ingredients are globally-sourced.
Its good, though, that the brand made it a point to name the types of meat they use on their recipes instead of just saying generic names like meat meal and animal by-products. With this, you know that their dog food range is made of quality meats, oils and fats.
Apart from the protein sources, youll probably find unfamiliar ingredients. Here are a few found in some of their recipes. Weve also included their benefits and drawbacks as a bonus.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation productand Lactobacillus reuteri fermentation product. Both are types of probiotics or good bacteria added in select recipes. These promote healthy digestion.
- Beet Pulp.Found in sugar beets, this is added as a dietary fiber supplement. This ingredient promotes digestive health.
- Chicory root.A plant rich in simple sugars, this ingredient promotes the regeneration of good bacteria in the gut.
- Tomato pomace. This ingredient comes from ripe tomato fruits and includes the skin, seeds, and pulp. Tomato pomace and tomatoes, in general, are not toxic to dogs. On the other hand, tomato and tomato pomace contain tons of insoluble and soluble fiber that aids digestion. It also contains vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants.
- L-carnitine. Select formulas like their weight control recipe contain this to keep active dogs alert.
- Potassium Iodide. This is used in veterinary medicine to treat chronic skin and select bacterial infections in dogs.
- Thiamine Mononitrate. Simply known as Thiamine or Vitamin B, this supplement helps in the conversion of fat and carbohydrates into usable energy. It also supports normal growth and development and aids in the proper functioning of the heart, digestive and nervous system.
- Choline Chloride.Brain development, heart health, and proper muscle and liver function are achieved with the help of this essential nutrient.
- Sodium Selenite.An ingredient used in pet food products, this one is full of controversy. High doses of this ingredient can be toxic. However, for a dog food to be considered complete, some selenium needs to be added since its absence can also be damaging.
- Other mineralslike Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, and Manganese Proteinate.These are commonly seen in pet foods. Correct amounts of these mineral supplements provide essential nutrients for dogs. Some are needed to be included for a recipe to meet AAFCOs nutrient profiles. However, some of these can be toxic when consumed in high doses.
Is this pet food brand expensive?
Most of the recipes from this dog food brand are already reasonably priced, ranging from $6 to $53. PetCo also gives discounts for repeat deliveries.
Recall History
With products that meet AAFCOs nutrient profiles, it is reassuring to know that the brand, as of this writing, has no record of products being recalled. Take note, though, that this is a relatively new brand / product line.
Hopefully, PetCo will be able to maintain a recall-free record for the years to come.
Where to buy?
Wholehearted dog food can be conveniently purchased through various channels. You can buy via links provided on the PetCo website or other online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) offering pet supplies.
Additionally, if you prefer shopping in person, their products are available at your local PetCo store. Whether you choose to buy using links online or visit a nearby PetCo, purchasing their nutritious and affordable dog food, treats, and dental care chews is now made convenient.
Final Say
Wholehearted dog food stands out as a top choice for pet owners seeking premium nutrition at an affordable price point. By carefully selecting and utilizing high-quality ingredients to create both dry kibble and canned options, Wholehearted dog food earns high marks for its nutritional value and palatability.
The inclusion of chelated minerals are usually used to enhance its overall quality. When PetCo launched Wholehearted, it represents its commitment to offering the best products in the line, and the brand's dedication to providing wholesome meals for dogs exemplifies its ethos.
As with any dog food, individual preferences and specific dietary needs may affect the overall rating, but the brand consistently proves to be a reliable option that represents the excellence expected from PetCo's range of pet supplies.
