Eukanuba dog food is a brand of premium dog food that is known for its focus on providing balanced nutrition and high-quality ingredients. It is manufactured by Mars, Incorporated, a well-established company in the pet food industry.
Eukanuba offers a variety of dog food formulas designed to meet the specific needs of different dogs, including puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. They also have formulas tailored to different breed sizes and specific dietary requirements.
Ingredients Analysis
Eukanuba dog food is known for using high-quality ingredients to provide dogs with optimal nutrition. While the specific ingredients may vary depending on the formula and flavor, here are some commonly used ingredients in Eukanuba dog food:
1. Animal Proteins
Eukanuba prioritizes real animal proteins as the primary ingredient, which is crucial for a dog’s overall health. Chicken is a high-quality source of animal protein commonly used in Eukanuba dog food. It is rich in essential amino acids that support muscle development, repair, and maintenance. Protein is crucial for dogs’ overall health, as it contributes to healthy growth, strong muscles, and a robust immune system. Additionally, chicken is highly palatable and provides a flavorful component to dog food.
2. Whole Grains
While whole grains like corn, barley, and wheat are used in Eukanuba dog food, some dogs may have specific dietary sensitivities or allergies to grains. However, for dogs without grain-related issues, whole grains can be a valuable source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. They provide energy, promote healthy digestion, and contribute to a balanced diet.
Corn is a common grain ingredient used in Eukanuba dog food. It serves as a source of carbohydrates, providing energy for dogs’ daily activities. Sorghum is another grain ingredient often used in Eukanuba dog food. It is a gluten-free grain alternative that provides carbohydrates, fiber, and various nutrients.
3. Fruits and Vegetables
Eukanuba incorporates fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, peas, spinach, and tomatoes into their formulas. These ingredients offer a range of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, carrots provide vitamin A for vision health, while spinach offers iron for red blood cell production. Fruits and vegetables contribute to overall well-being and support immune function.
4. Chicken By-Product Meal
Chicken by-product meal refers to the concentrated, nutrient-rich parts of the chicken that remain after the meat is processed. While some people may find the term “by-products” off-putting, it’s important to note that by-products can be valuable sources of nutrition for dogs. Chicken by-product meal includes organs such as hearts, livers, and kidneys, which are highly nutritious and provide essential vitamins and minerals. By including chicken by-product meal, Eukanuba utilizes more parts of the chicken, minimizing waste and ensuring dogs receive a well-rounded nutritional profile.
5. Fats and Oils
Eukanuba includes fats and oils derived from sources like chicken fat or fish oil. These ingredients serve as a concentrated source of energy and are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, provide anti-inflammatory properties, promote healthy skin and coat, and support brain development. Omega-6 fatty acids contribute to skin health and a glossy coat.
6. Prebiotics and Fibers
Eukanuba incorporates prebiotics such as chicory root extract and fibers like beet pulp or dried brewers’ yeast. Prebiotics nourish and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy digestive system. Fibers contribute to healthy bowel movements, aid in nutrient absorption, and help maintain proper gut function.
7. Vitamins and Minerals
Eukanuba ensures that its dog food formulas are balanced with essential vitamins and minerals. These include vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage; vitamin C, which supports immune function; calcium, which promotes bone health and development; and many others. The inclusion of these nutrients helps ensure dogs receive a well-rounded diet.
Nutrients Analysis
Over the years Eukanuba stands out when it comes to high-quality nutritious dog food. Every piece of the kibble is designed to give your furry friend the nutrients they need in the flavor of your choice. We have provided a general overview of the key nutrients typically found in their products. Please note that actual nutrient levels may vary depending on the specific formula and flavor.
1. Protein
Eukanuba dog food is known for many years for providing dogs with food highly rich in proteins. Protein is essential for dogs as it supports muscle development, repair, and overall growth. Adequate protein intake also helps maintain healthy skin and coat. The protein content in Eukanuba dog food varies depending on the formula but generally falls within the range of 20% to 30%.
However, they only use two animal protein sources in their recipes. As much as chicken and lamb are beneficial to provide sufficient protein, they limit dogs to only two options. Therefore a dog that cannot handle either gets disqualified.
3. Fat
Fat is an important energy source for dogs and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Eukanuba dog food typically contains moderate levels of fat to provide the necessary energy for active dogs. The fat content may range from 10% to 20%, depending on the formula.
4. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates in Eukanuba dog food often come from whole grains like corn, barley, or wheat. While dogs have a limited requirement for carbohydrates, they provide a source of energy and dietary fiber. The carbohydrate content may vary between 30% to 50% in Eukanuba formulas.
5. Fiber
Fiber plays a vital role in promoting healthy digestion and maintaining proper bowel movements. Eukanuba dog food often includes sources of fiber such as beet pulp or dried brewers’ yeast. The fiber content can range from 2% to 5%, depending on the formula.
6. Vitamins and Minerals
Eukanuba recognizes the importance of essential vitamins and minerals for overall health and includes a balanced mix in its formulas. These nutrients include vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin C, as well as minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. The specific nutrient levels may vary depending on the formula and are tailored to meet the unique needs of different life stages and breed sizes.
What we like about Eukanuba Dog Food
1. Quality Ingredients
Eukanuba prioritizes the use of high-quality ingredients, including real animal proteins, fruits, vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals. These ingredients provide a balanced and nutritious diet for dogs.
2. Animal Protein Focus
Eukanuba emphasizes animal proteins as the primary ingredient, which is beneficial for dogs’ muscle development, repair, and overall health. Protein is essential for dogs, especially those with active lifestyles or specific dietary needs.
3. Range of Formulas
Eukanuba offers a wide range of formulas tailored to different life stages, breed sizes, and specific dietary requirements. This allows pet owners to select a formula that best suits their dog’s unique needs.
4. Nutritional Balance
Eukanuba formulates their dog food to provide a balanced nutritional profile, including a mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. This can help support overall health, energy levels, and immune function.
5. Digestibility
Eukanuba designs its formulas with ingredients that are highly digestible for dogs, promoting optimal nutrient absorption and minimizing digestive issues.
What we do not like about Eukanuba Dog Food
1. Ingredient Sensitivities
Some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients commonly found in Eukanuba formulas, such as grains like corn or specific protein sources like chicken. It’s important to identify and address any dietary sensitivities your dog may have.
2. Grain Inclusion
While grains like corn and wheat are used in some Eukanuba formulas, they may not be suitable for dogs with grain-related sensitivities or those on grain-free diets. Consider alternative formulas if your dog requires a grain-free diet.
3. Individual Preferences
Dogs have different tastes and preferences, and not all dogs may enjoy or thrive on Eukanuba dog food. It’s important to observe your dog’s reaction and adjust accordingly if needed.
4. Price
Eukanuba dog food falls within the mid to higher price range compared to some other brands. While it offers quality ingredients and nutritional benefits, the cost may be a consideration for some pet owners.
5. Recall History
Like many pet food brands, Eukanuba has had occasional recalls in the past. It’s important to stay informed about any recalls and monitor the brand’s commitment to quality and safety.
Recipe and Label Analysis
Over the years so many pet owners have become loyal customers of Eukanuba dog food. There is a good reason for this. From their high quality, well-balanced and organic ingredients, it is clear many found this brand to be amazing. We will review some of our favorite picks of their product.
1. Eukanuba Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
This is the most popular recopies for many dog owners. It is best for dogs weighing over 55 pounds or more. The top ingredient in this recipe is chicken which provides energy and supports dog lean muscles.
The chicken also has omega-6 fatty acids which give the dog’s coat the sparkle required for healthy skin. The protein amount to about 23% and the fat content is 13%. Other ingredients include wheat, sorghum, and corn. Despite some people being skeptical of grain-inclusive recipes for their dogs, grain is the best source of carbohydrates which aids in digestion.
Pros
- Above average protein
- Supports joints
- Rich in omega-6 fatty acids for shiny skin
- High-quality chicken used
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs sensitive to poultry and grains
2. Eukanuba Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Eukanuba adult small bites dry dog food is the best pack for dogs weighing below 54 pounds. This great option is suitable for smaller breeds with smaller mouths since they can be easily eaten. The kibble is s-shaped and breaks down easily without the buildup of tartar leaving your pup with healthier teeth and gum.
The recipe consists of 25% crude protein and 16% crude fat content. The two are just the right piece for an active dog. It contains ingredients like chicken, calcium, chondroitin, and glucosamine which contribute to strengthening dogs’ bones and joints.
This product however has had some recalls for having bad batches with mold. These batches lacked freshness despite the high cost of this product compared to other similar formulas.
Pros
- Perfect size for small breeds
- High in protein
- Good for healthy and strong joints
- 3D denta defense breaks down tartar buildup
Cons
- Complains of bad batches
- Expensive
3. Eukanuba Puppy Medium Breed Dry Dog Food
This is a recipe made specifically for puppies. Basically, those medium-sized breeds weigh between 24-54 pounds. The product is stocked with 29% protein and 18% fat content since puppies need plenty of these for developing energetic bodies.
The main ingredients are; chicken, ground whole grain sorghum, brewer rice, and corn meal. This meal will ensure your pup gets all the nutrients they require.
Pros
- The first ingredient is chicken
- Full nutrition
- Contain vitamin E to support immunity
- Great content of protein for growing pups
Cons
- Not gluten-free
- The majority of the ingredients are cheap carbohydrates
4. Eukanuba Premium Performance Adult Dry Dog Food
Eukanuba premium performance adult dry food is crafted for active dogs. It helps the dog maintain their best performance during their daily activities like running, guiding, and hiking. The product contains 26% protein and 16% fat. The recipe consists of ingredients like chicken by-products, brewers rice, chicken fat, and gluten wheat. All these guarantee your dog will deliver optimal energy for any activity thrown its way.
Pros
- Provides optimal nutrients
- Strengthen agile joints
- Supports sustained performance with animal-based proteins
- Strengthens and oxidizes exercising muscles
- Contains an enhanced blend of fibers and prebiotics
Cons
- Not gluten-free
- Contains by-products
5. Eukanuba Senior Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for your senior dog a bite then this package is what you need to keep it active. This product is specially made for dogs weighing up to 54 pounds and whose age is older than 7 years. The content of this product mainly is a significant amount of fats and carbohydrates which play a good role in ensuring your older dog has an active lifestyle.
The first ingredient is premium-quality lamb which is a highly digestible protein source. Other ingredients are corn meal, brewer rice, and chicken by-product meal.
Pros
- Helps keep joints mobile
- Supports lean muscles
- Support healthy brain function in senior dogs
- Contains optimal levels of fats and carbohydrates
- Complete and balanced nutrition for senior dogs
- Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine
Cons
- Contains by-products and gluten
6. Eukanuba Fit Body Weight Control Dry Dog Food
For dogs that need to manage their weight or maintain a healthy weight, Eukanuba fit body weight control dry dog food is a perfect choice. This product is typically lower in calories and fat while still providing essential nutrients to support overall health and satiety. The food is fit for dogs weighing between 24 to 54 pounds and older than 12 months. The main ingredients include chicken, chicken by-product meal, wheat, and corn.
Pros
- First ingredient is high-quality chicken
- Promotes lean and active body
- Maintain healthy brain function
- Supports healthy body weight control
- Contain L- carnitine and 39% less fat
Cons
- Poor overall packaging
7. Eukanuba Adult Wet Dog Food
Eukanuba adult wet dog food is a high-quality animal protein-packed specially manufactured wet food. It has a 100% complete and balanced formula which helps build your dog’s muscles. It is a mixture of vegetable stew and beef. You can use it as a topper for dry kibble. Ingredients used are chicken, beef liver, beef, and tomatoes.
Pros
- Made with high quality animal-based
- Grain-free formula for active dogs
- Offers 100% complete and balanced nutrition
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Delicious gravy that supports hydration
Cons
- Expensive
- Often out of stock on online retailers
Recall History
Just like any other brand, Eukanuba had several recalls in the past. The only problem with recalls is the setback where the company incurs great losses and ends up losing some of the best customers. Every company aims to remain on top and any chance of getting recalls should not arise. Therefore they take control of the quality of their products.
Eukanuba dog food was last recalled in 2013. This was after 20 different dog foods had potential salmonella contamination. The contamination was a great threat since it affects both humans’ and dogs intestines. Earlier in 2010 they had a similar recall in 2007 but due to melamine-related compounds present in their food.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eukanuba Dog Food
1. Which Types Of Dogs Is Eukanuba Best Suited For?
Eukanuba offers a wide range of formulas that cater to different types of dogs. While Eukanuba can be suitable for various dogs, there are certain types of dogs for which it may be particularly well-suited. Here are a few examples:
– Active and Sporting Dogs
Eukanuba provides performance formulas designed for highly active or working dogs. These formulas are tailored to provide the necessary energy, endurance, and nutrient balance to support the demanding physical activities of sporting dogs, such as hunting, agility, or field trials.
– Breed-Specific Formulas
Eukanuba offers breed-specific formulas that take into account the specific needs of different dog breeds. These formulas are formulated based on the size, activity level, and potential health concerns of specific breeds. They can provide targeted nutrition and support for breed-specific requirements, such as those for large breed dogs, small breed dogs, or certain breeds prone to specific health conditions.
– Puppies
Eukanuba offers puppy formulas that are specifically formulated to support the growth and development of young dogs. These formulas contain higher levels of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals necessary for the healthy development of puppies.
– Senior Dogs
Eukanuba has formulas designed to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs. These formulas often contain ingredients that support joint health, muscle mass maintenance, and cognitive function in older dogs.
– Dogs with Specific Health Conditions
Eukanuba provides specialized formulas to address specific dietary needs or health concerns. For example, they offer weight management formulas for dogs with weight issues, sensitive digestion formulas for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, and formulas designed for dogs with joint or skin problems.
2. Is Eukanuba Dog Food Worth It?
Yes, Eukanuba dog food is worth investing every penny. In every formula made by this brand, they ensure they have the dog’s breed, size, and life stages in mind. Their recipes are top-notch; balanced, complete, and satisfy basic canine dietary needs.
Today, on every online platform eukanuba remains to be among the top-rated dog foods. This food was a delight to eat for our dog that absolutely relished the taste, the chewability and only stopped eating more because we didn’t add more onto his food portions.
3. Is Eukanuba Dog Food Good?
We consider Eukanuba dog food a good choice for many dogs based on its numerous positive aspects. The brand emphasizes the use of quality ingredients, including real animal proteins, whole grains, and nutritious fruits and vegetables. This commitment to quality ensures that dogs receive a balanced and nutritious diet.
Eukanuba offers a diverse range of formulas, including life stage-specific options, breed-specific formulas, and specialized formulas for dogs with specific dietary needs or health concerns. This variety allows pet owners to select the most appropriate formula for their dogs, taking into consideration factors such as age, breed, size, and specific health requirements.
The brand’s reputation, backed by being manufactured by Mars, Incorporated, instills confidence in the product’s quality and safety. Eukanuba has a long-standing presence in the pet food industry and has garnered a loyal customer base over the years.
While it is important to consider individual factors such as budget and a dog’s specific preferences or dietary restrictions, Eukanuba’s commitment to providing balanced nutrition and tailored formulas for different dogs makes it a compelling choice.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right dog food, Eukanuba emerges as a standout brand that offers exceptional nutritional value and overall health benefits for your furry friend. With its scientifically formulated recipes, premium quality ingredients, and specialized formulas tailored to different life stages, Eukanuba dog food provides a well-rounded diet that supports your dog’s growth, vitality, and overall well-being. So, give your beloved companion the gift of optimal nutrition with Eukanuba, and watch them thrive with joy and vitality.