Choosing the right dog food is a crucial decision for pet owners. Simply Nourish is a popular brand, but Who Makes Simply Nourish Dog Food, and is it a good choice for your furry friend? This article will delve into the manufacturer, ingredients, nutritional breakdown, and other essential details to help you make an informed decision.
About Simply Nourish
Simply Nourish is a brand of pet food that’s sold exclusively at PetSmart. They offer a range of options for dogs, including both wet and dry food, alongside a limited selection of treats. Their products are formulated with high-quality ingredients, and they provide a variety of recipes to cater to different dietary needs, including grain-free choices.
The Parent Company Behind Simply Nourish
Simply Nourish is produced by Mars Petcare, a global leader in the pet food industry. Mars Petcare’s portfolio includes well-known brands such as Pedigree, Iams, Eukanuba, and Royal Canin.
Where is Simply Nourish Dog Food Manufactured?
Simply Nourish dog food is manufactured in the United States.
Who Makes Simply Nourish Dog Food Specifically?
As mentioned, Simply Nourish dog food is made by Mars Petcare. The company leverages its expertise and resources to produce this brand, ensuring it meets specific quality standards and nutritional guidelines.
Types of Products Offered by Simply Nourish
Simply Nourish provides a variety of wet and dry food options for dogs, as well as some treat selections. They offer diverse recipes with high-quality ingredients, including grain-free alternatives.
Ingredients Used in Simply Nourish Dog Food
Simply Nourish emphasizes the use of natural ingredients in its formulas. Their products are free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Here are some key ingredients:
- Real Meat: Typically the first ingredient listed, providing a primary protein source.
- Wholesome Grains or Grain-Free Options: Depending on the recipe, you’ll find whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal or grain-free alternatives like potato flour.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Added for vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Natural Flavors: Enhance the taste to make the food palatable for dogs.
- No Artificial Additives: Ensuring the food is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Nutritional Breakdown of Simply Nourish Dog Food
Simply Nourish dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of dogs at all life stages, from puppies to senior dogs. Their recipes are designed to be complete and balanced, providing pets with the nutrients they need for optimal health.
Nutritional Needs for Different Life Stages
- Puppies: Puppy formulas are enriched with higher levels of calories and protein to support growth, as well as DHA for cognitive development.
- Adult Dogs: Options include both grain-inclusive and grain-free formulas. Adult formulas are typically made with real chicken and brown rice, while grain-free versions may use duck and potato flour.
- Senior Dogs: Senior formulas are formulated with easily digestible ingredients like chicken meal and brown rice, with fewer calories to support the health of aging dogs.
Key Nutritional Components
- Protein Content: Protein is crucial for muscle building and repair. Simply Nourish dry food formulas typically contain around 26% protein, while wet food formulas average about 12%.
- Fat Content: Fat provides energy and supports healthy skin and coat. Dry food formulas have an average fat content of 16%, and wet food formulas contain around 11%.
- Carbohydrate Content: Carbohydrates are an energy source. Dry food formulas average about 50% carbohydrates, while wet food formulas average around 67%.
- Calorie Content: Dry food formulas average around 350 calories per cup, while wet food formulas contain about 380 calories per can.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Calcium, Phosphorus, and Potassium, are added to support overall health.
Feeding Guidelines for Simply Nourish Dog Food
The correct amount of food to feed your dog depends on factors such as age, activity level, and weight. Simply Nourish provides feeding guidelines on their website to help pet owners determine the appropriate portion size.
- Puppies: Feed three to four times daily, adjusting amounts based on age, activity, and weight to maintain a healthy body condition.
- Adult Dogs: Feed two to three times daily, with adjustments as needed based on activity level and weight.
- Senior Dogs: Feed twice daily, adjusting portions to maintain a healthy weight.
Is Simply Nourish a Reputable Brand?
Yes, Simply Nourish is generally considered a good dog food brand, offering recipes made with real meat and whole grains, as well as grain-inclusive and grain-free options.
Recall History of Simply Nourish
In late 2022, Simply Nourish had a voluntary recall of several frozen dog food products due to high levels of vitamin D. PetSmart reported no customer complaints or illnesses related to the recall, and only the frozen products were affected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Simply Nourish Dog Food
What’s the Difference Between Grain-Inclusive and Grain-Free Dog Food?
Grain-inclusive dog food contains whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal, while grain-free options use alternatives like potato flour.
What Types of Dog Food Does Simply Nourish Offer?
Simply Nourish provides both dry and wet food formulas. Dry food recipes feature real meat and whole grains, with both grain-inclusive and grain-free varieties. Wet food recipes also include real meat but are typically grain-free.
Are Grain-Free Diets Suitable for All Dogs?
Grain-free diets are not suitable for all dogs. Dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities may benefit from them, but they are not generally recommended for puppies, who need the nutrients provided by grains.
What Flavors and Varieties Does Simply Nourish Offer?
Dry food recipes are available in flavors such as Chicken & Brown Rice, Turkey & Brown Rice, Salmon & Brown Rice, and Lamb & Brown Rice. Wet food recipes come in Chicken, Turkey, Salmon, Lamb, Beef, and Duck flavors.
Does Simply Nourish Make Dog Treats?
Yes, Simply Nourish produces dog treats made with real meat and without grains.
What is the Primary Ingredient in Simply Nourish Dog Food?
The first ingredient in Simply Nourish dog food is typically meat, such as chicken, turkey, salmon, lamb, beef, or duck, depending on the specific recipe.
How to Transition Your Dog to Simply Nourish
Transitioning your dog to Simply Nourish requires a gradual approach. Mix the new food with your dog’s current food, gradually increasing the proportion of Simply Nourish over a period of 7-10 days. Monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset during the transition.
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
If your dog exhibits signs of digestive discomfort such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite, consult your veterinarian. More concerning signs include blood in the stool, black tarry stools, weight loss, or lethargy.
What Customers Are Saying About Simply Nourish Dog Food
Many pet owners are satisfied with Simply Nourish dog food, noting its quality ingredients and availability of grain-inclusive and grain-free options. Although there have been recalls in the past, no illnesses have been reported.
Do Dogs Enjoy the Taste of Simply Nourish?
While individual preferences vary, the use of real meat and whole grains in Simply Nourish recipes often makes the food palatable for dogs. A gradual transition can help ensure acceptance.
Is Simply Nourish Worth the Investment?
The price of Simply Nourish dog food is competitive with other premium brands on the market. Considering the quality of the ingredients and the availability of specialized formulas, many pet owners find it to be a worthwhile investment.
Pros and Cons of Simply Nourish Dog Food
Pros
- Affordable compared to other premium brands.
- Widely available at PetSmart stores.
- Relatively simple and short ingredient list.
Cons
- Grain-free diets may not be suitable for all dogs.
- Some formulas may contain fillers and artificial ingredients.
Conclusion
Simply Nourish dog food, made by Mars Petcare, offers a variety of options designed to meet the nutritional needs of different dogs. While it has many positive attributes, such as its affordability and availability, pet owners should consider their dog’s specific dietary needs and consult with a veterinarian before making a change.