Deciding what to feed your beloved dog can be overwhelming. This article helps you navigate the world of dog food, specifically focusing on Simply Nourish. We will examine its ingredients, nutritional value, and potential drawbacks, moving beyond the marketing hype to give you an honest assessment. This article solves 3 problems: uncovering hidden ingredients, providing practical feeding advice, and helping you decide if Simply Nourish is the right choice for your dog.
Simply Nourish is a popular brand of dog food sold primarily at PetSmart. It markets itself as a natural and nutritious option for dogs of all life stages. But how does it actually stack up?
Evaluating Ingredients: What’s Really Inside?
The ingredient list is arguably the most important aspect of any dog food. Simply Nourish often leads with named protein sources like chicken, lamb, or salmon. However, it’s crucial to look beyond the first few ingredients. Many formulas also contain grain-inclusive options, which may not be ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
Some common ingredients in Simply Nourish include:
- Chicken/Lamb/Salmon: Primary protein source. The quality can vary.
- Brown Rice/Oatmeal: Common carbohydrate sources.
- Peas/Potatoes: Plant-based protein and carbohydrate sources.
- Chicken Meal/Lamb Meal: Concentrated protein source.
- Beet Pulp: A fiber source that can be controversial. (See Wikipedia on beet pulp for more information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beet_pulp).
It’s important to note that “natural” doesn’t always mean “best.” Read the labels carefully and understand what each ingredient contributes to your dog’s diet.
Protein, Fat, and Fiber: Understanding Nutritional Content
The guaranteed analysis on the dog food bag provides information about the protein, fat, fiber, and moisture content. Simply Nourish typically offers formulas with moderate protein levels.
- Protein: Aim for a protein level that aligns with your dog’s life stage and activity level. Puppies and active dogs generally need more protein than senior dogs.
- Fat: Essential for energy and nutrient absorption.
- Fiber: Important for digestive health.
- Carbohydrates: Provides energy but should not be the primary ingredient.
Compare the guaranteed analysis to your dog’s individual needs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate nutritional profile for your dog.
As a dog owner for over 20 years and someone who has carefully researched dog nutrition, I’ve experimented with numerous brands, including Simply Nourish. While I appreciate the availability and marketing of Simply Nourish, I’ve found some areas where it falls short compared to other premium brands.
The Hidden Truth About Plant-Based Proteins
One of my biggest concerns with some Simply Nourish formulas is the reliance on plant-based proteins like peas and potatoes. While these ingredients aren’t inherently bad, they shouldn’t be the primary source of protein. Dogs thrive on animal-based proteins, which provide a more complete amino acid profile. Many dog food manufactures use plant-based proteins to lower their cost and improve profit margins.
Addressing Concerns About Grain-Free Diets
There’s a lot of debate surrounding grain-free diets. While some dogs benefit from avoiding grains, completely eliminating them can sometimes lead to nutritional deficiencies if not properly balanced. If you choose a grain-free Simply Nourish formula, make sure it’s formulated by a veterinary nutritionist and contains a variety of other beneficial ingredients.
When I chose a new food for my dog, I found these steps to be effective.
To evaluate a new food product, I followed these steps:
1. Check the labels Always double check the labels of any new food or treat that you consider giving to your pet.
2. Gradual Change Mix small amounts of the new food into the current food, gradually increasing the proportion over 7-10 days.
3. Individualized Monitoring If your pet is sensitive to new food introductions, start with even smaller portions.
4. Allergen Aware Monitor your pet for any adverse reactions when introducing a new product.
5. Consult with Veterinary Consult with your vet about food and treat options that are specific to your pets health needs.
6. Adjust Portion Sizes Be sure to check the feeding guide as treats and foods vary in calorie counts.
Deciding whether or not Simply Nourish is the right choice depends on your individual dog and your budget.
Consider Your Dog’s Individual Needs
- Age: Puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional requirements.
- Breed: Some breeds are prone to specific health conditions that may require dietary modifications.
- Activity Level: Active dogs need more calories and protein than sedentary dogs.
- Sensitivities/Allergies: Identify any ingredients your dog is sensitive or allergic to.
Consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
Comparing Simply Nourish to Other Brands
| Brand | Price Point | Protein Source | Key Features | Potential Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simply Nourish | Moderate | Chicken, Lamb, Salmon | Widely available, Variety of formulas | Plant-based protein reliance, Ingredient quality varies |
| Purina Pro Plan | Higher | Chicken, Beef, Salmon | Science-backed, Wide range of specialized formulas | More Expensive |
| Blue Buffalo | Higher | Chicken, Lamb, Fish | “LifeSource Bits,” Grain-free options | Can be pricier, Some formulas high in carbohydrates |
A Note on Cost: Balancing Budget and Quality
Simply Nourish is generally more affordable than some other premium brands. However, don’t sacrifice quality for cost. If Simply Nourish fits your budget, carefully select a formula with a high-quality protein source and minimal fillers.
Simply Nourish can be a decent option for some dogs, especially if you’re on a budget. However, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate the ingredient list and guaranteed analysis to ensure it meets your dog’s individual needs. Consider consulting with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations and exploring other premium brands if your budget allows.
Our goal is to change how pet foods are made and marketed … and that starts with education. Our Advisory Board includes a PhD veterinarian who taught nutrition to vet students, a PhD food scientist and formulator, a PhD veterinarian and herbalist, and a veterinarian who’s a nutrition expert and advisor to AAFCO, the organization that sets standards for pet food production. We’ve brought the best and brightest minds together to help investigate the foods you feed your furry family member.